Do we pray like God is truly on our side?

In the latter part of Romans chapter 8, we find a powerful reminder for those of us who follow Jesus:

“If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all—how will He not also, along with Him, graciously give us all things?”

Romans 8:31b-32, ESV

Let’s take a moment and acknowledge the neglected truth.

Often, we overlook this crucial concept as we walk through life’s complexities. Caught up in the struggle, it’s easy to find ourselves drained and overwhelmed, forgetting to seek peace from the One who created us and loves us.

A Candid Reflection

Let’s be honest. Have you prayed today? If so, how long did you spend in prayer? What did you bring before God? Anything significant? If you’re starting to feel convicted or that I’m attacking you in some, please stay with me.

The day’s not over. Now is the perfect time to come back around. Take a moment, grab a journal and a pen, or open a notes app on your phone. Start listing out the circumstances causing you distress.

Then, bow your head and surrender it to our Heavenly Father. Start reading through what you wrote, whether it’s bullet points or paragraphs, read it like a letter to God.

“Where do I begin?”

As you start writing, perhaps you’re thinking, “There’s just too much; I don’t even know where to start!” Fear not; God’s Spirit can guide you in that. Just start articulating (as best you can) what’s burdening your heart.

If you get stuck, keep working through Romans 8:

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? …in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Romans 8:35, 37 (ESV)

Embracing God’s Unconditional Love

Through His boundless love and sacrificial gift, given through His Son, Jesus, you have unhindered access. With the sealing of the Holy Spirit, you have the assurance that He is near and will hear you.

Even if your list includes trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger, and sword, you can confidently lift it to God in prayer. May this truth resonate in your life today.

Join the Conversation; Share Your Thoughts

• Why do you think we sometimes pray as if God is against us?
• What challenges do we face in praying with confidence?