We've all read or been told that we are to approach God boldly in time of need. Many people can take that to mean to approach God aggressively in prayer. Well, have you ever been so overwhelmed by a situation or problem that it was all you could do to even lift your head so that instead of coming boldly you were more like crawling meekly? It's kinda hard to come boldly and demand justice for yourself when you can barely find the strength to breathe, yes? It's not uncommom to feel as though you've lost control of a situation when under this kind of oppression. It's also not uncommon to think that you've failed because you don't feel like the brave warrior that the Bible says you're supposed to be.

As long as you understand that there is nothing farther from the truth.

I want you to take a look at something. Hebrews 5:7 say -- In the days of His flesh (when Jesus walked the earth) He offered up definite, specific petitions and supplications (prayers and requests) with STRONG CRYING AND TEARS to Him who was always able to save Him from death. Did you get that? Jesus spent his days performing miracles and His nights in prayer. He seldom slept but for a couple hours here and there. Meanwhile, people everywhere were trying to either stone Him or kill Him every step of the way. How's that for stress? Can you imagine how tired He was, especially the last three years of His life?

We all know how hard it is to function properly when we're exhausted. No wonder the Bible says that Jesus went to God in tears. There were times when Jesus Himself was completely overwhelmed and hard pressed on every side. Though He trusted in God to save Him each time (as we always should) that didn't stop the feelings of anxiety and loneliness. Strong crying and tears. Do you understand what that means? It means the man broke down and sobbed like a baby. He cried fervently, from His soul.

That's why the Bible says in James 5:16 that the effectual, fervent prayer availeth much. Going boldly to God simply means that you're going to Him boldy believing that He will answer you. It has nothing to do with your state of mind (being overwhelmed or sad or scared or what have you). You can be laughing, screaming, or crying. Any of these would add up to fervent prayer. Keep in mind that Hebrews also says that Jesus was heard in prayer not because of who He was but because He reverenced God. Want your prayers to be heard as well? Then go to Him in fervent prayer and reverence Him. You have not lost the battle, nor has any problem overtaken you, simply because it has you overwhelmed and crying. That is the perfect time to run to God. When your heart is aching, I guarantee what comes out of your mouth will most definitely be fervent prayer.

Stay constant in prayer (in every situation and circumstance) and trust God to show you the way out. He cares for you deeply and wants you to trust in Him. The Bible says He looks to show Himself mighty on our behalf daily. How about that?

Wendy Lane
April, 2007