John 11:41-42 (NIV): “So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, ‘Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me.’”
Mark 11:22-24 (NIV): “‘Have faith in God,’ Jesus answered. ‘Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, “Go, throw yourself into the sea,” and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.’”
Before you speak to any situation or obstacle in your life, it is crucial to first cultivate a thankful heart and have complete confidence that God hears you. In John 11:41-42, Jesus expresses gratitude to the Father for always hearing Him. This assurance that God is listening is the foundation to effective prayer. Similarly, in Mark 11:22, Jesus encourages you to “Have faith in God.” This faith is not just a vague hope but a confident assurance that when you speak, God listens.
To pray with power and authority, start by thanking God, knowing beyond any doubt that He hears you. As 1 John 5:15 assures, if you know He hears you, you can be confident that you have what you’ve asked of Him. With this certainty in your heart, you can boldly decree things just as Jesus did with Lazarus.
In John 11, after thanking God, Jesus commands Lazarus to come forth from the grave. Similarly, when you speak to the mountains in your life, as Mark 11:23-24 instructs, they must move. This act of faith results in visible manifestations of God’s power.
But the process doesn’t stop there. When Jesus called Lazarus out, Lazarus emerged bound in grave clothes. Jesus then used His authority to command that he be unwrapped and set free. Likewise, when you call forth something in prayer—whether it’s healing, provision, or breakthrough—give it a purpose and direction. Speak specifically to your situation.
If you are dealing with sickness, command the symptoms by name and declare what your body must do according to God’s promises. If you are facing financial lack, speak to your resources, and decree their purpose and use in alignment with God’s will.
Remember, a thankful heart and confidence in God’s hearing are of greatest importance. Alongside this, Mark 11:25 highlights the necessity of forgiveness. Unforgiveness can hinder your faith and prayers. Therefore, ensure that your heart is free from any bitterness or resentment.
Know that the challenges you face are not God’s way of teaching you a lesson. What the enemy means for harm, God will turn around for your good. Stand firm in your faith, declare God’s promises, and remain steadfast. Your breakthrough is on its way.
In every situation, stand with a thankful heart, fully persuaded that God hears you, and speak with the authority given to you by Jesus. Your promise is on the way!
Valuableworth 