Prayer: Our Spiritual Training for Turbulent Times

In an era of increasing global uncertainty, many people of faith are wondering how they will face the challenges that lie ahead. Pastor Logan Schultz offers a powerful reminder that our strength in times of crisis comes not from our own abilities, but from our connection with God through prayer.

Church interior with wooden walls, stained glass windows, flags behind pews, and an altar featuring white flowers. A draped piano and an organ are on either side.

The Power of Prayer in Biblical Crises

Throughout history, prayer has been a cornerstone of faith, providing strength and guidance in the most challenging times. The Bible offers numerous examples of individuals who relied on prayer to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds:

King Hezekiah (2 Kings 19):

When faced with an overwhelming army of 185,000 soldiers, Hezekiah's first action was to turn to God in prayer. The result? A miraculous defeat of the enemy, demonstrating the power of faith in action.

King Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20):

Confronted by over a million armed men, Jehoshaphat immediately sought the Lord's guidance. His faith was rewarded when God caused the enemy to turn against themselves, resulting in a victory without Jehoshaphat's army lifting a finger.

Elisha (2 Kings 6):

Surrounded by hostile forces, Elisha remained calm and prayed for his servant's eyes to be opened. This revealed God's protective forces, unseen but ever-present, illustrating the hidden spiritual realities that prayer can unveil.

Daniel (Daniel 6):

When faced with a death sentence for his devotion to prayer, Daniel maintained his practice, refusing to compromise his faith. His unwavering commitment resulted in divine protection in the lion's den, showcasing the power of consistent prayer even in life-threatening situations.

Jesus:

Even in His darkest hour, facing betrayal, false accusations, and crucifixion, Jesus remained steadfast through prayer. His example demonstrates the calming and focusing power of prayer in the face of extreme adversity.

The Modern Challenge: Distraction and Disconnection

While these biblical examples are inspiring, today's believers face a unique challenge: distraction. Our modern world is filled with constant noise and interruption. Smartphones, social media, and 24/7 connectivity often keep us from developing a strong prayer life. The average smartphone is touched over 2,600 times a day, leaving little time for quiet reflection and communion with God.

This constant distraction poses a significant threat to our spiritual well-being. As John Mark Comer aptly puts it, "The greatest threat to Christians today is not secularism, but distraction." These technological comforts and diversions won't sustain us in times of real trouble – only a well-established practice of prayer can provide the peace and strength we'll need.

Preparing for Uncertain Times

As we face an uncertain future, the importance of developing a strong prayer life cannot be overstated. Just as soldiers rely on their training in times of chaos, believers must develop a habit of turning to God in prayer. This spiritual discipline will enable us to stand firm and find peace, even in the midst of unprecedented challenges.

The concept of "falling to the level of our training" in times of crisis applies to our spiritual lives as well. If we've trained ourselves to reach for our phones in moments of stress or boredom, that's likely what we'll do when faced with real adversity. However, if we've cultivated a life of prayer, we'll have a powerful resource to draw upon when we need it most.

A Call to Action

In light of these truths, we are called to examine our spiritual habits and make a commitment to prioritize prayer in our daily lives. This may involve:

Setting aside specific times each day for prayer and reflection
Creating "phone-free" zones or times to reduce distractions
Joining or starting a prayer group for accountability and encouragement
Studying the prayers of biblical figures and spiritual leaders for inspiration
Practicing mindfulness and presence to become more attuned to God's voice

As we cultivate these habits, we prepare ourselves to face whatever trials may come with faith, courage, and the assurance of God's presence.

Conclusion

In a world that seems increasingly chaotic, the ancient practice of prayer offers a timeless source of strength and peace. By making prayer our "level of training," we equip ourselves with a powerful tool to navigate the challenges of our time. As we face an uncertain future, let us commit to deepening our prayer lives, knowing that in doing so, we're preparing for whatever lies ahead. In the words of the apostle Paul, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).