How often have we prayed something like, “O Lord, be with cousin Billy now in a special way”? Have we stopped to consider what it is we’re requesting? Imagine that you are a parent who is preparing to leave your children with a babysitter. Would you dream of saying, “O Betsy, I ask you now that you would be with my children in a special way?” No way. You would say, “Betsy, the kids need to be in bed by 9 pm. They can have one snack before their baths, and please make sure they finish their homework. You can reach us at this number if there’s any problem. Any questions before we go?” We are very specific with our requests and instructions for our babysitters. We want them to know specifics. It should be no different with prayer.
David Jeremiah
There are 7 types of simple-praying people. Yesterday we saw that the sixth type of pray-er is one who realises his ignorance and seeks answers directly from God. Today we explore the seventh type of Pray-er:
Specific People.
As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” “Lord, I want to see,” he replied. Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God. Luke 18:35-43
General prayers are wasted prayers. When there is a need, are we not specific to address that need? e.g. When I’m sick, I see a Doctor; when I’m tired, I sleep; when I’m hungry, I eat. Specific prayer is focused prayer! When you pray be as specific as you can: “Lord, I want to see!” You will be greatly encouraged by the specific response: “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight…”
The key for simple-praying people is found in verse 41, when Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?”