During the 1992 Vice Presidential debates, retired Admiral James Stockdale1 captivated the audience by opening with two thought-provoking questions: “Who am I and Why am I here?” These questions were both relevant and timely, especially considering that most voters didn’t know who the Reform Party candidate was at the time.
While the reasons may vary, it is important to recognize that the questions raised by Stockdale are universal, often surfacing at various stages in our lives. As each of us embarks on a journey to define our personal identity we seek to understand our life’s purpose. What are we truly meant to do with our lives?
However, discovering biblically sound answers to these pressing questions can be challenging without a solid foundation of faith. Without faith in Yeshua, our lives can feel empty, devoid of meaning and purpose.
By laying down his life willingly, Yeshua went from suffering servant to High Priest. His priesthood is the means by which he will ultimately present believers to the Father as spotless, blameless, and worthy of citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven on earth. The door has been opened for humanity to connect with our Redeemer and comprehend this unmerited gift the Father has for every individual through Yeshua.
As a result, those who choose to believe in the promises of the Messiah will find themselves better equipped to answer the questions “Who am I and Why am I here?” with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
Finding Life’s Purpose Begins with Faith and Obedience
When the Father sent Yeshua, He articulated a purposeful goal – redeem humanity from the penalty of sin. Our goal should be to avail ourselves of this magnanimous offer of eternal life.
As was mentioned, the starting point for discovering our true identity and purpose for our life lies in knowing our Messiah. This is not a ‘casual acquaintance’ type of relationship. The art of ‘knowing’ someone implies intimacy borne out of shared experiences – good times and bad.
And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies: but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, saith YHWH.
Jeremiah 9:3
The nation of Israel had a veiled understanding of the Truth that persisted up to the first coming of Yeshua. Although the Prophets and other righteous men and women desired to open their eyes, their attempts remained mostly fruitless.
You see, Truth can only be discovered and understood in the repository of Eloah’s Word – the Scriptures. Truth can only be unlocked by the Set Apart Spirit – the Ruach HaKodesh.
The word used for truth in Jeremiah 9:3 is emunah (Strong’s H530). It can be translated literally as ‘firmness’, or figuratively as ‘security’; moral fidelity. Truth always trumps tradition.2 But the people of Israel were destined to remain in a state of perpetual spiritual blindness because they were not valiant for the truth.
According to the Biblical Illustrator,3 “valour for the truth is most signally displayed by a consistent, prayerful, and persevering obedience to all its requirements.” Truth is real, not an esoteric concept. You have to desire it badly enough that you are committed to obediently persevering in your efforts to grab hold of it through study and faith.
When Pilate asked “What is truth?”4 Yeshua did not even bother to answer him, since it was asked from a heart of contempt. If the Roman Prefect (governor of Judea) had been sincere, no doubt Yeshua would have taken the time to explain.
Theologian Albert Barnes on the subject of ‘truth’:
“This question had long agitated the world. It was the great subject of inquiry in all the schools of the Greeks. Different sects of philosophers had held different opinions, and Pilate now, in derision, asked him, whom he esteemed an ignorant fanatic, whether he could solve this long-agitated question. He might have had an answer. If he had patiently waited in sincerity, Jesus would have told him what it was. Thousands ask the question in the same way. They have a fixed contempt for the Bible; they deride the instructions of religion; they are unwilling to investigate and to wait at the gates of wisdom; and hence, like Pilate, they remain ignorant of the great Source of truth, and die in darkness and error.”
One of the best definitions of truth I ever read was this: truth is when your words and deeds match. Truth is inextricably tied to integrity. In John 17:17, Yeshua explains that Yah’s Word embodies truth and that the Almighty El sets apart individuals through this Truth for a sacred purpose in a world that opposes believers in the Gospel.
In an effort to shore up the faith of certain Hebrew converts to the Gospel (post resurrection), the author of the letter to the Hebrews had to remind them of several important biblical truths:
Yeshua is the author and finisher of faith.
Life’s trials are necessary for maturity.
Our confession must be evident in our lifestyle.
We should not downplay the significance of obedience.
Our salvation is tied to Yahuah’s purpose for creating us.
Yeshua, the Author and Finisher of our Faith
We are known by the company we keep. The characteristics and behaviors of Yeshua should be reflected in our own character, behaviors, and values.
Therefore, we also have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, putting aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, let us run with patient endurance the race that has been set before us, fixing our eyes on Yeshua, the author and finisher of faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, disregarding the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of Eloah.
Hebrews 12:1-2
As we seek to follow Yeshua, it is essential that we match His behavior. We need to set aside sin, doubt, rebellion, and anything that hinders our spiritual well-being. It’s important to endure trials with grace, choosing to refrain from complaining. By bearing our individual crosses with integrity, we become living testimonies of Yeshua’s faithfulness to His Father’s calling and purpose.
Life’s Trials Are Necessary for Maturity
Sometimes I wish I could have a conversation with my 20 year old self. I would tell her “Girl, stop freaking out about your near-empty refrigerator or how you’re going to pay for next month’s car payment!” Looking back at my life I realize that all that worrying was so pointless.
Then again, I must confess that even today – depending on the crisis – I have moments of fear and doubt concerning the future. (This was especially true during the period leading up to last November’s Presidential elections.) But each time I am tempted to slip back into those old habits, the Ruach reminds me of Yeshua’s sermon on the mount:
For this reason I say to you, do not be anxious for your life, what you will eat, and not for your body, what you will wear. Is your life not more than food and your body more than clothing?
Matthew 6:25
Keep this in mind: The past is finished. The future doesn’t exist. The present (now) is the only ‘real’ existence Yah & Yeshua inhabit.
…for the nations5 seek after all these. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first his kingdom and righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious for tomorrow, because tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
Matthew 6:32-34
Our faith must be tested through trials. Trials bring us to a place of spiritual maturity.
Our brother James wrote: “Consider it all joy, my brothers, whenever you encounter various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacing in nothing.”
When we endure rough times we learn patience. But we must let patience complete its work by allowing it to become fully developed, unhindered. Patiently waiting for anything does not give us license to complain, murmur, or act out emotionally. While waiting for our answers to prayer, we do not have the right to question Yah’s character or motives in allowing certain things to happen.
When we try to circumvent the waiting process, we sabotage Yah’s timeline and blessings are delayed.
Our attitude should be to read what the Word says and do it. We must leave the outcome to Yah, knowing that whatever happens will always be for our good and His glory.
Our ‘Confession’ Must Be Evident In Our Lifestyle
No one appreciates a hypocrite—especially a believer who constantly criticizes others for faults they themselves possess. The term “hypocrite” originates from a Greek word that translates to “play actor.” In ancient times, a hypocrite was an individual who wore a mask and feigned to be someone else.
Yeshua compared hypocrisy to building a house on shaky ground.
But why do you call me ‘Master, Master,’ and do not do what I say? Everyone who is coming to me, and is hearing my words and is doing them I shall show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock. And when a flood came, the stream burst against that house, but was unable to shake it, for it was founded on the rock. But the one hearing and not doing, is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream burst, and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.
Luke 6:46-49 TS2009
In the Scriptures, hypocrites were also known as wolves in sheep’s clothing and people who engaged in worship based on tradition and not Yah’s Word. John the Immerser challenged religious hypocrites to produce fruits worthy of repentance.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “Offspring of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Therefore produce fruit worthy of repentance! And do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham from these stones! Already now the ax is positioned at the root of the trees; therefore every tree not producing good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. I baptize you with water for repentance, but the one who comes after me is more powerful than I am, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Matthew 3:7-12
Therefore he was saying to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “Offspring of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Therefore produce fruit worthy of repentance! And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children for Abraham from these stones! And even now the ax is positioned at the root of the trees; therefore every tree not producing good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
Luke 3:7-9
We must examine our lives and take care that our behavior matches our confession.
We Should Not Downplay the Significance of Obedience
Yeshua learned obedience through the things he suffered. So why do we think that we can avoid suffering as we strive to be obedient? Whenever you push back against evil in obedience to the Word you can expect to suffer.
Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from what He suffered.
Hebrews 5:8
As we disciple under the direction of our Savior and High Priest Yeshua, we must remember that while he walked the earth as a man, he endured the same tests that we must endure. He had to resist sin. In resisting he also suffered. So Yeshua is not asking us to do something he himself did not do
Although he was the Son of The Most High and aware of his exalted status, he still learned through sinless experience what obedience demanded – suffering. His experiential perspective on life as a human was something the angels had trouble grasping.
Our Salvation is Tied to Yahuah’s Purpose for Creating Us
Paul told Timothy that believers have been called and redeemed to a holy life because of Yahuah’s purpose and favor which was gifted to us in Messiah.
So do not be ashamed of the witness of our Master, nor of me his prisoner, but suffer hardship with me for the Good News according to the power of Elohim, who has saved us and called us with a set-apart calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and favor which was given to us in Messiah Yeshua before times of old, but now revealed by the appearing of our Savior Yeshua Messiah, who indeed abolished death and brought life and incorruptibility to light through the Good News…
2 Timothy 1:8-10 TS2009
The notion of ‘purpose’ is sprinkled throughout the Scriptures. Job said, “I know you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” ( Job 42:2)
Proverbs 19:21 states: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is Yah’s purpose that prevails.”
In Paul’s letter to those at Philippi, we learn that it is Elohim who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His purpose.”
According to the Oxford dictionary, the word purpose can be defined as “the reason for which something is done or created or for which something exists.” A coffee cup is designed as a receptacle for a hot beverage. Books are communication devices whereby ideas are transmitted via language through the printed word.
In the Bible, one of the key verses that emphasizes man’s duty or purpose to love Yahuah is found in the book of Deuteronomy. Specifically, Deuteronomy 6:5 states: “You shall love the Yahuah your Elohim with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.”
Additionally, in the New Testament, Yeshua reiterates this commandment in Matthew 22:37, where He says: “You shall love the Yahuah your Elohim with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”
These passages highlight the importance of loving Yahuah as a fundamental aspect of faith and duty.
But Wait. There’s More.
On our way to fulfilling our purpose in life, we must contend with obstacles in the form of malevolent people or challenging circumstances that will test our resolve.
It is interesting to contemplate why our tests and trials often revolve around difficult people. That narcissistic spouse, unreasonable boss, or mercurial friend may have been allowed to enter our orbit to help mold and shape us so we can achieve Yah’s purpose for our life.
If you think this is a preposterous notion, consider the role Pharaoh played during the time of Mosheh and Aaron. In the book of Exodus we are told that it was Yah Himself who raised him up for a purpose.
But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth. Exodus 9:16
Elohim kept Pharaoh standing, permitting him to live and hold out until His own purpose was accomplished. His purposes were:
To overthrow Egyptian deities, proving that YHWH was the only true El.
To punish Israel’s oppressor.
To confront the sovereign’s pride.
To effect the deliverance of the captives.
When we engage with challenging individuals and address them according to biblical principles, two outcomes arise: we show unbelievers that the Bible’s guidance on living is a practical resource in our faith journey, and we gain a deeper insight into how suffering shapes us into the individuals Yah intended us to become. In this way, Yah’s purpose for our lives is fulfilled.
The roadmap has been given us by our Redeemer. It is up to us as his disciples to choose this day who we will serve – the world’s ideas on how to find purpose in life or Yah’s.
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both you and your seed may live.
Deuteronomy 30:19
And if it seems evil to you to serve YHWH choose you this day whom you will serve; whether the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve YHWH.
Joshua 24:15
Serving Yahuah with sincerity and truth can only come from a heart that is freely and willingly devoted. This is the invitation that Joshua extends, just as Moses did before him. It is the sole path to discovering and fulfilling our purpose in life.
Postscript: Stoicism vs. the Gospel.
How will you be remembered after you die? Will people remember you as a mighty warrior for the Kingdom or someone who was a believer in name only?
At the start of this article, Vice-Admiral James Stockdale was mentioned for posing two questions: “Who am I and Why am I here?” Although he was treated by the media as a punchline and by history as a footnote, Stockdale lived a remarkable life as a soldier. Even so, history mostly remembers him as a stoic. There is no information to suggest he was a believer in Yeshua or regarded the Bible. His United States Naval Academy biography states that he “lectured extensively on the stoicism of Epictetus and on those character traits which serve one best when faced with adversity.”
Stoicism will not save us from the second death. Only belief in the Messiah and adherence to Yah’s Word will.
Footnotes:
1 US Naval Academy article on Vice Admiral James B. Stockdale.
2 Mark 7:13 “Nullifying the Word of Elohim through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such traditions you do.” TS2009
3 The Biblical Illustrator: A collection of commentaries on every verse of the Bible, compiled by Joseph S. Exell.
4 John 18:38
5 The word for nations is the Greek term ‘ethnos’, (Strong’s G1484) translated as race, tribe; specifically a foreign (non-Hebrew) one (usually by implication pagan): – Gentile, heathen, nation, people.
6 James 1:2-4
7 Philippians 2:13 Some translations of the Greek word eudokia (Strong’s G2107) read “good pleasure” instead of purpose.
Often in preparation for effective prayer we see prayer and fasting coupled together. In Acts 13:2-3, the early church in Antioch is described as a community of believers who are worshiping Yahuah and fasting. During this time, the Holy Spirit instructs them to set apart Barnabas and Paul for the work that they are called to do. Following this divine guidance, the church members pray, lay hands on them, and send them off on their mission. This passage highlights the importance of prayer, fasting, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Prayer, coupled with fasting, as an effective way to pray is evident throughout both Old and New Testament writings. In Acts 14:23, Paul and Barnabas employed prayer and fasting in appointing elders for the church.
Exodus 34:28 mentions that Moses neither ate bread nor drank water while he was on Mt Sinai for an additional 40 days1 receiving the covenant. The Prophet Ezra declared a fast for himself and the people as they prayed for a safe journey back to Jerusalem from Babylon. (Ezra 8:21-23)
After hearing of the condition of Jerusalem, Nehemiah mourns and fasts, then prays for the repentance of Israel’s sins and for restoration of the scattered nation. (Nehemiah 1)
In addition to humbling through fasting and prayer, here other important prerequisites for effective prayer that are important to study and consider:
Repentance of Sins (2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 66:18)
Faith and Trust in Yah (Hebrews 11:6, James 1:6, Proverbs 3:5-6)
Obedience to Yahuah’s Torah (Deuteronomy 28:1-2 and 1 John 3:22 “And we receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him.”)
Forgiveness (Mark 11:25 “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.”)
Persistence and Perseverance (Luke 18:1) “Pray and never give up”; and (1 Thessalonians 5:17) “Pray continually.”
Righteousness (James 5:1) “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
Eliminating Distractions (James 5:16) “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
The Importance of Purification and Cleanliness
Throughout the scriptures, we are encouraged to maintain a state of cleanliness and purity, reflecting the nature of the Most High and His Son. The following verses highlight the profound connection between spiritual purity and the effectiveness of our prayers.
Psalm 24:3-4: “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god.”
Isaiah 1:15-16: “When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of blood! Wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight; stop doing wrong.”
James 4:8 – “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” Did you know that scripture indicates that if we do not keep Yahuah’s commandments our prayers are an abomination to him?
Proverbs 28:9 – “He who turns away his ear from hearing the Torah, Even his prayer is an abomination.”
Here are a few other supporting verses:
Psalm 66: 18 – “If I regard iniquity in my heart, The Lord will not hear me.”
Proverbs 15:8 – The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: But the prayers of the upright is his delight.”
Zechariah 7:11-13 – “But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder; they closed their ears so they could not hear. They made their hearts like a rock so as not to obey the law or the words that the Lord of Hosts had sent by His Spirit through the earlier prophets. Therefore great anger came from theLord of Hosts. Just as He had called, and they would not listen, so when they called, I would not listen,” says the Lord of Hosts.”
Isaiah 1:15 – “When you spread out your hands in prayer, I hide my eyes from you; even when you offer many prayers, I am not listening. Your hands are full of Blood!”
Isaiah 59:2 – “But your iniquities have separated you from your God; your sins havehidden his face from you, so that he will not hear.”
Micah 3:4 – “Then they will cry out to the Lord, but he will not answer them. At thattime he will hide his face from them because of the evil they have done.”
John 9:31 – “We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godlyperson who does his will.”
1 Peter 3:12 – “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
So believers can now see, effective prayer involves:
1. Repentance of Sins and the Acceptance of the Gospel of Yahusha Messiah’s death, burial, resurrection, His esteem title as the Son of Yahuah, His esteem and honor as the High Melchizedek priest in heaven sitting at the right hand of the father interceding on our behalf.
2. Faith and Trust in Yahuah and His son Yahusha
3. Cleanliness (Ensuring One Isn’t Unclean or Defiled)
4. Obedience to God’s Commands
5. Forgiveness of others who have sinned against us
6. Striving to live a Righteous life: Remember don’t ever let anyone tell you can’t be righteous, because to say we can’t achieve a righteous walk would be declaring Yahuah a liar. And we know that Yahuah does not lie and that he is not asking his children to do something impossible.
7. Fasting in Humility
8. Eliminating Distractions and focusing on Yahuah when we pray, as we persist and persevere through our prayer life. “Pray Continually” — (a) Praying aloud, not just in our minds (b) Praying through song as David did may be another effective method.
The Impact of Effective Prayer on Our Lives
Effective prayer is important to believers because it ensures that our prayers and petitions to Yahuah are aligned with His will. We all should all strive for our prayers to be sincere and meaningful, rather than selfish, prideful, misguided, angry, vengeful, or disconnected from Yah’s plan. It is essential to remember that Yah has given us the beautiful gift of choice, often referred to as free will. By focusing on effective prayer, we can deepen our relationship with Him and seek to fulfill His purposes in our lives. Amein!
“But if it doesn’t please you to worship Yahuah, choose for yourselves today the one you will worship: the gods your fathers worshiped beyond the Euphrates River or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my family (my house), we will worship Yahweh.”
Joshua 24:15
So, we do indeed have a choice.
Keeping the freedom to make choices in mind, it’s clear that we pray because we desire something; we seek a solution or relief from our problems. Mature believers recognize the importance of praying in alignment with the Father’s will and in a righteous manner. This means we should avoid asking for material possessions out of selfishness. For example, it’s perfectly reasonable for a family to pray for a larger home if their current living space is no longer adequate due to growth. However, this request differs significantly from seeking a bigger house out of vanity or covetousness.
Keeping the freedom to make choices in mind, it’s clear that we pray because we desire something; we seek a solution or relief from our problems. Mature believers recognize the importance of praying in alignment with the Father’s will and in a righteous manner. This means we should avoid asking for material possessions out of selfishness. For example, it’s perfectly reasonable for a family to pray for a larger home if their current living space is no longer adequate due to growth. However, this request differs significantly from seeking a bigger house out of vanity or covetousness.
Yahuah knows our hearts and our needs, Amein!
Recall the petitions that Avraham made on behalf of the city of Sodom, as he bargained with Yahuah regarding the destruction of that wicked city. He pleaded that if Yah could find just ten righteous people, He would spare it. Avraham could have chosen to remain silent, but instead, he voiced his concerns, and Yahuah heard his petitions, considered them, and agreed to the terms. It was not counted against Avraham as sin for asking.
Ultimately, however, ten righteous people were not found, and the city was still destroyed. Yet, Avraham’s heart of compassion drove him to intercede, and Yahuah listened and responded to his pleas. Likewise, Moses wrestled with Yah and interceded on behalf of the children of Israel as we read earlier in Exodus 32:11-14. Hallelujah!
Another more important reason we should desire to have an effective prayer life, is simply to foster a deeper relationship with our heavenly Father.
When we wholeheartedly dedicate ourselves to Yahuah and His Son, Yahusha, and discipline ourselves to follow Yahuah’s Torah—His Laws, Commands, and Instructions—without hesitation, we commit to serving Him with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. In doing so, we will see positive results: our prayers will be heard and be effective in our lives and in the lives of the people we pray for. Our prayers will be more effective in opposing evil spirits, powers, and principalities that we pray against, as well as in seeking protection and deliverance from them. Halleluyah!
A note of caution: please don’t mistake the intent of this study or misinterpret scripture. I’m not implying that every request we make in prayer will be granted, nor am I promoting any false prosperity gospel ideas. Even Paul prayed for healing from his ailment, but he accepted that the answer was no, demonstrating maturity and faith in accepting Yahuah’s decisions.
I am not implying that we won’t face persecution, stress, danger, or even death. Stephen, the first martyr, lived righteously and had what I would consider an effective prayer life, yet he still died for his faith. However, look at what his death inspired. Look at the example he set by giving forgiveness toward those who murdered him. Stephen is notably remembered for his ultimate sacrifice for the faith. His actions emboldened Christians to standfast in the face of persecutions and for centuries has inspired believers to fear no men and to stand for truth no matter what.
Remember, always pray that Yahuah’s will be done in all things. As I mentioned earlier, sometimes prayers are answered in many miraculous ways.
Examples of Effective Prayer
Let’s be honest, answered prayer in today’s world seldom makes it onto the evening news. They are likely never reported or are buried on purpose because the enemy – Ha’Satan – wants believers to remain uninformed, weak, and ineffective in their spiritual and prayer life. The evil one does not want us praying for healing of one another, he does not want us casting out demons, and he does not want us to raise the dead. But these prayers are answered today. Here are a few instances I have found of prayers being answered in amazing ways:
Miraculous Provision
George Müller was a Christian evangelist and the director of the Ashley Down orphanage in Bristol, England. He is known for his unwavering faith and reliance on prayer. Müller never asked for financial support, but instead, he prayed for God to provide for the needs of the orphanage. One famous story recounts how, one morning, there was no food for the children. Müller prayed, and shortly after, a baker knocked on the door with enough bread to feed everyone. Then, a milkman whose cart had broken down nearby offered the milk to the orphanage, ensuring the children had a complete meal.
Miraculous Resurrection
In 2001, Nigerian pastor Daniel Ekechukwu was declared dead after a car accident. His body was taken to a mortuary, where it remained for two days. His wife, believing in the power of prayer, insisted on taking his body to a church where Reinhard Bonnke was preaching. After intense prayer, Daniel reportedly came back to life, astonishing doctors and witnesses.
Miraculous Recovery
In 2015, John Smith, a teenager from Missouri, fell through ice and was underwater for 15 minutes. He was declared dead for over an hour. His mother, Joyce, prayed fervently at his bedside, and miraculously, his heart started beating again. Despite the grim prognosis, John made a full recovery, which doctors could not explain.
Miraculous Healing
Barbara Snyder was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and was in the final stages of the disease. She was bedridden and had lost the ability to breathe on her own. After receiving prayer from her church community, she experienced a sudden and complete healing. She was able to walk and breathe without assistance, leaving her doctors baffled.
Reverend Thomas Kendall & Maori Chiefs, oil painting by James Barry 1820
Miracles Witnessed by Early Catholic Missionaries in Africa
In the early 20th century, Catholic missionaries in Africa often reported miraculous events among the local tribes. One notable account involves missionaries who shared the Gospel with a tribe, teaching them about Jesus’ miracles. When the missionaries returned months later, they found the tribe practicing what they had learned—casting out demons, healing the sick, and even raising the dead. However, the missionaries, unfamiliar with such manifestations, discouraged these practices, fearing they were forms of local magic.
John G. Lake, a missionary to South Africa in the early 1900s, documented numerous miracles, including healings and resurrections. Lake’s ministry was marked by extraordinary events, such as the healing of the sick and casting out of demons, which resonated deeply with the local African communities.
As we can see, Yahuah still answers prayers. These prayers were certainly effective because they involved, steadfast faith, belief in the power of Yahuah, and were coupled with a righteous walk.
Preacher Charles Spurgeon had this to say about the nature of prayer:
“True prayer is neither a mere mental exercise nor a vocal performance. It is far deeper than that – it is a spiritual transaction with the Creator of Heaven and Earth.”
“Prayer should not be regarded as a duty which must be performed, but rather as a privilege to be enjoyed, a rare delight that is always revealing some new beauty.”
Brothers and sisters, seek guidance and effective prayer examples from the Scriptures. We are to be mimickers of Yahusha. We know Yahusha mimics the Father in heaven and does all things according to His will. Yahusha followed the examples set in the Torah and the Prophets, and we should do the same in our prayer life and approach to prayer.
We should equip ourselves for effective prayers in various circumstances, as highlighted in several passages above. This is especially important concerning spiritual warfare and other significant matters. We should all routinely engage in prayer, fasting, maintaining cleanliness, purification, and humility. We can metaphorically wear sackcloth and ashes by publicly and visibly demonstrating deep remorse, humility, and a sense of mourning and deep anguish in our prayers to our Heavenly Father. Many of us understand this connection to the Day of Atonement, and we see above it applies in a multitude of dire situations.
Hopefully you can see why striving for an effective prayer life is important to us, the lives of those around us, and to our connection to Yahusha and our heavenly Father Yahuah.
The main thing I hope and pray is that we all keep working and striving for an effective prayer life, to be the light to the world that Yahuah has called us to be as his children. If we pray and it seems like our prayers aren’t being heard or answered, may we never give up, may we keep striving to prays as the prophets prayed, as Yahusha prayed, and keep turning back to the Scriptures for guidance in achieving this goal of effective prayers.
Never give up, keep trying, and remain persistent. The Scriptures tell us to pray without ceasing. All day, every day, all the time! Halleluyah, and Amein!
Lastly, recall at the beginning of this study I ask you to write down in your study notes a list of your current prayers, and specifically how you are saying the prayer to Yah. Now, having considered the topics covered in this study, revisit those prayers and determine how you might reword the prayers to be more effective. But most importantly, consider what preparations you should do first before presenting your petition to the Father more effectively.
Prayers are answered today, all the time, all around the world, and we must keep trying, keep praying, keep petitioning Yahuah, in fear, respect, faith, and in patience – never doubting. We must always pray in accordance with His will. May Yahuah’s will be done in all things even when we don’t understand.
Thank you for honoring me by reading through this study. I hope it has blessed you and that it helps in your pursuit of achieving a more effective prayer life. All glory and honor be to the Most-High Yahuah!
“Hear, O Yisra’ĕl: יהוה our Elohim, יהוה is one! “And you shalllove יהוה your Elohim with all your heart, and with all your being, and with all your might.”
Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Shalom.
Footnotes
1 In Exodus 24:18, it states that Moses was on the mountain for 40 days and 40 nights when he received the tablets of the law. Adding these two periods together gives a total of 80 days of fasting: 40 days from Exodus 24:18 and 40 days from Exodus 34:28.
Prayer is a familiar practice for many of us, often woven into the fabric of our daily lives. For some, it’s a ritual performed multiple times throughout the day. But what motivates us to pray?
I understand why I pray. I seek constant forgiveness and guidance to navigate life’s challenges and difficulties. I pray for the protection of those I love, as well as those I may not. I communicate with Yahuah to express my love and respect for Him, and to show my gratitude for sending His son, Yahusha, who laid down His life for my sins and rose again triumphantly as the Messiah and high Melchizedek priest, interceding for me at the right hand of the Father.
I offer my thanks, fully aware that I do not deserve even a fraction of His grace and forgiveness. Yet, His word assures me that He loves and cares for me. Who am I to receive such kindness?
I pray in gratitude for the food and provisions in my life. (Philippians 4:19) I seek discernment and wisdom as I study Scripture. I also pray for the courage to speak before a crowd of believers, many of whom possess far greater knowledge than I do. Most importantly, I ask for the Ruach HaKodesh to speak through me, delivering Yahuah’s message rather than my own.
The Prophet Isaiah eloquently captures Yahuah’s faithfulness to all who are considered ‘the remnant of Israel’—those who place their prayerful trust in Him:
I will be the same until your old age, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will bear and save you.
Isaiah 46:4
Examples of Effective Prayer
Of course we know that in Matthew 6:9-13 Yahusha taught us to pray – commonly referred to as the Lord’s Prayer. However, this is not the only approach we should take in prayer. In verse five of Matthew 6, Yahusha admonished us to be authentic.
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathens do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
Matthew 6:5-8
So it is okay to pray in other ways and for specific purposes. Other notable prayers you may recall from the Bible are:
Yahusha’s prayer prior to his crucifixion:
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”
Matthew 26:39
Hannah’s prayer for a child:
In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. And she made a vow, saying, ‘Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.”
1 Samuel 1:10-11
Solomon’s prayer for wisdom:
Now, Yahuah my Elohim, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties.Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?”
1 Kings 3:7-9
David’s prayer of personal repentence:
“Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.”
Psalm 51:1-2
Daniel’s prays for the repentance of Yah’s people:
“I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed: ‘Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws.”
Daniel 9:4-5
Before we dive into our study on effective prayer, take a few minutes of your time to make a list of current prayer requests. Note specifically your approach to the Father. Put this aside for now, as we will revisit this later in Part 2 of this article.
Effective Prayer Requires Preparation
It is essential to examine certain specific preparations mentioned in scripture and explore how they relate to effective prayer.
Synopsis: Jesus encounters a large crowd and finds His disciples arguing with some scribes. A man approaches Him, explaining that his son is possessed by a spirit that causes severe physical convulsions and has made him unable to speak. The man had asked Jesus’ disciples to cast out the spirit, but they were unsuccessful. Jesus expresses frustration at the lack of faith among the people and asks for the boy to be brought to Him. When the boy is presented, he convulses violently. The father shares that this has been happening since childhood and pleads for help, expressing doubt in his belief. Jesus reassures him that all things are possible for those who believe. The father cries out for help with his unbelief. Jesus then commands the unclean spirit to leave the boy, and despite the boy appearing dead after the spirit’s departure, Jesus lifts him up, restoring him to life. After He went into a house, His disciples asked Him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out? ” And He told them, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting .”
Key: The disciples were unable to drive out the unclean spirit because they had not spent time praying and fasting prior to the encounter.
Another one of my favorites is Elihjah’s prayer on Mount Carmel in 1 Kings 18:20-38:
Synopsis: The prophet Elijah confronts the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel to demonstrate the power of the true God. He challenges them to a contest: each side will prepare a bull for sacrifice and call upon their deity to send down fire to consume it. The prophets of Baal go first, calling out and performing rituals all day without any response from Baal. Elijah then prepares his altar, drenches it with water, and prays to the Lord. God answers Elijah’s prayer by sending fire from heaven, consuming the sacrifice, the wood, the stones, and even the water in the trench around the altar. This event leads the people to proclaim that the Lord is the true God.
Keys: There are several key components tied to effective prayer in action here. In verse 24 the prophet drew a line between the One True Elohim – YHWH– and the false gods and priests of Baal. This is a very important distinction that will impact our prayer lives. In verses 30-33 Elijah called the people near as he took the time to repair the altar of worship that had been neglected. This neglect served as a metaphor for the deterioration of the people’s faith. In repairing the altar, Elijah was obeying the requirements of the Law (Leviticus 1:9) which were binding on Israel. Yahuah’s commands are also binding on us. Lastly, in verses 36-37 Elijah reminded the people of their heritage by invoking the names of the Patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Israel) who in times past were also witnesses to YHWH’s miraculous power (often by fire) on their behalf. He was able to perform this amazing thing on Mt. Carmel because he acted according to Yah’s word.
Here are a few other examples of effective prayer from scripture to examine for this study:
Yahusha’s prayer for Lazarus to be raised from the dead in John 11:41-44
Peter’s rescue from prison in Acts 12:5-17 (Here it doesn’t quote the prayer but in verse 5 it reads “So Kĕpha was indeed kept in prison, but prayer was earnestly made to Elohim on his behalf by the assembly.”)
Paul and Silas’ rescue from prison in Acts 16:25-26 (Again, here it doesn’t quote the prayer but in verse 25 it reads “And at midnight Sha’ul and Silas were praying and singing songs to Elohim, and the prisoners were listening to them.” )
While there are numerous examples to explore in this study, I think these examples are particularly relevant and worth considering.
Understanding Effective Prayer: What It Looks Like and How It Works
Growing up in Oklahoma with a mother who had unwavering faith in the power of prayer, I learned early on that when severe weather approaches, we pray against the storm, rebuking it and commanding it to be calm and still, just as Yahusha did. I am grateful to have witnessed storm after storm dissipate as it neared our home, all thanks to our prayers. Praise Yahuah!
Let’s consider what effective prayer really looks like in our lives. You may be familiar with the examples listed below. However, when reading through them this time around, pay particular attention to small details and hints presented in the text, which point us toward achieving effective prayer.
What are some passages that discuss prayer in a higher level of detail? We will begin with James 5:13-19, which focuses on prayers that target specific needs.
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
James 5:13-16
At the end of this section of scripture, James uses Elijah as an example of what effectual prayer can accomplish.
Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.
James 5:17-18
The Method of Effective Prayer
Now we will focus on the ‘method’ presented in 2 Chronicles 7:14 which leads to achieving the desired result in one’s prayer life.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.
Realize you are ‘His people called by His name → Humble yourself → Seek His face (meaning seek his torah/ways in earnest) → Turn away from wicked ways (meaning truly repenting from sins and sinning no more = Yahuah hearing you (your prayers) from heaven = Forgiveness of one’s sins and healing of the land.
Self Realization of Identity + Work + Faith + Learning + Difficult lifestyle changing work = Yah actually hearing prayer = Forgiveness and Healing.
I won’t break down the subsequent examples listed below in this way, but hopefully this gives a visual of how to identify key points, key words, and methodologies of achieving more effective prayer, in your personal studies.
• 1 Kings 8:22-53 – Solomon’s Prayer of Dedication: Here we see King Solomon’s extensive prayer at the dedication of the temple, highlighting the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and Yah’s faithfulness.
• Daniel 9:1-19 – Daniel’s Prayer for His People: Daniel’s pours out his heart in confession, repentance, and supplication for the people of Israel, humbly seeking and seeking God’s mercy.
• Mark 11:24 – Highlights the importance of faith in Yahuah, believing that He is able to accomplish things that appear impossible with infinite ease.
• Philippians 4:6-7 – Emphasizes that there is to be such confidence in Yah as to free our mind from anxiety, and such a sense of dependence on Him as to keep it calm.Everything is in reference to the supply of our wants and our spiritual condition.Supplication is a mode of prayer which arises from that sense of need or want. Thanksgiving is the heart condition necessary as we make our requests known.
• 1 John 5:14-15 – The confidence referred to here is that which relates to the answer to prayer. The sense is that one of the effects of believing on Messiah is that we have the assurance that our prayers will be answered. We must remember also that Yah has not promised to grant anything that is contrary to His will. The expression ‘according to His will’ is a) in accordance with what He has declared He is willing to grant and b) limits the answer to prayer to what He sees to be best for us and our situation.
• John 17 – Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer: This entire chapter is a beautiful prayer by Yahusha, where he prays for Himself, His disciples, and all believers.
•• In Ephesians 1:15-19 , Paul highlights a heart full of thanksgiving, asks for wisdom and revelation of knowledge and that the Ephesians would have enlightened minds to know the ‘hope of His calling’ for their lives.
Daniel in the Lion’s Den
One prayer many are familiar with is from Daniel 9:1-20. Often referred to as a prayer for his people, Daniel’s Prayer is a shining example of how confession and humility can be the catalysts for powerful prayer. Here is the preamble, and the prayer in its entirety, for you to review and analyze in your devotional time:
In the first year of Darius, the son of Ahasuerus, a Mede by birth, who was ruler over the kingdom of the Chaldeans: In the first year of his reign, I, Daniel, understood from the books according to the word of the Lord to Jeremiah the prophet that the number of years for the desolation of Jerusalem would be 70. So I turned my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and petitions, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes, prayed to the Lord my God and confessed:
Lord, righteousness belongs to You, but this day public shame belongs to us: the men of Judah, the residents of Jerusalem, and all Israel — those who are near and those who are far, in all the countries where You have dispersed them because of the disloyalty they have shown toward You. 8Lord, public shame belongs to us, our kings, our leaders, and our fathers, because we have sinned against You.
Compassion and forgiveness belong to the Lord our God, though we have rebelled against Him and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by following His instructions that He set before us through His servants the prophets. All Israel has broken Your law and turned away, refusing to obey You. The promised curse written in the law of Moses, the servant of God, has been poured out on us because we have sinned against Him. He has carried out His words that He spoke against us and against our rulers by bringing on us so great a disaster that nothing like what has been done to Jerusalem has ever been done under all of heaven.
Just as it is written in the law of Moses, all this disaster has come on us, yet we have not appeased the Lord our God by turning from our iniquities and paying attention to Your truth. So the Lord kept the disaster in mind and brought it on us, for the Lord our God is righteous in all He has done. But we have not obeyed Him.
Now, Lord our God, who brought Your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand and made Your name renowned as it is this day, we have sinned, we have acted wickedly. Lord, in keeping with all Your righteous acts, may Your anger and wrath turn away from Your city Jerusalem, Your holy mountain; for because of our sins and the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and Your people have become an object of ridicule to all those around us.
Therefore, our God, hear the prayer and the petitions of Your servant. Show Your favor to Your desolate sanctuary for the Lord’s sake. Listen, my God, and hear. Open Your eyes and see our desolations and the city called by Your name. For we are not presenting our petitions before You based on our righteous acts, but based on Your abundant compassion. Lord, hear! Lord, forgive! Lord, listen and act! My God, for Your own sake, do not delay, because Your city and Your people are called by Your name.
In Part II of “Effective Prayer: A Torah Perspective”, we will explore how prayer preparation results in an impactful and meaningful life and why it is important.
One of my favorite passages in the Bible is found in the Beatitudes.1 In the fifth chapter of Matthew’s gospel, Yahusha teaches critical topics, presenting foundational principles of discipleship. He mentors his followers on how to respond righteously toward others and navigate the world when faced with various situations. This article explores the relevance of these principles in today’s fallen world and their enduring significance as we approach the end times.
In Matthew 5:10-20, Yahusha describes the nature and behavior of true disciples. He warns that this faith walk will not be a cakewalk.2 He tells His followers to expect persecution from the world because of their light and ‘saltiness’.
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything but is thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (NRSV) Matthew 5:10-20
The Believer’s Response to Persecution
Matthew 5:10-11 delivers an essential message to disciples about the unavoidable reality that all believers will encounter: persecution. Yet, the result of such persecution is that you will be blessed.
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. (NRSV)
The Greek word for blessed used here is markarios,3 an adjective that is defined as blessed or happy. A more poetic expression of the Greek root word makar, elevates its meaning as to be supremely blessed, happy, or fortunate. The other keyword in the passage is dioko,4 which means to be made to run or flee, driven away, be harassed, troubled, and mistreated.
So, how does being mistreated, harassed, and driven away make a person feel happy, fortunate, and supremely blessed? Our natural inclination is not to feel happiness in response to persecution. But how does experiencing persecution for the sake of righteousness contrast with the Hebraic usage of the word “blessed?”
The answer may be found by taking a look at Deuteronomy chapter 28’s usage of the word blessed, which is barak.5 Barak is a primitive root meaning to kneel, and by implication to bless God (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit), or to praise, salute, or curse.
For the Hebrew disciples, the concept of “blessing” was closely linked to enduring persecution while living righteously in obedience to Yahusha’s teachings. They might perceive it like this: when persecuted for upholding the Torah and the testimony of Yahusha HaMashiach, the entire experience felt like being in the presence of Yahuah the Father—kneeling, saluting, blessing, and adoring Him. In their spirit, they recognized the grace, love, and mercy the Father bestowed upon them. This understanding served as a reminder and affirmation that they were on the right path, the narrow way leading to the Kingdom of Heaven.
With this in mind, it makes more sense that a disciple’s reaction to such persecution would result in actual happiness and the feeling of being blessed, as the Greek concept of the word blessed implies.
And they heeded his advice, and having called for the emissaries, beating them, they commanded that they should not speak in the Name of יהושע, and let them go. Then indeed they went rejoicing from the presence of the council, because they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His Name. And daily in the Set-apart Place, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and bringing the Good News: יהושע the Messiah! Acts 5:40-42 (TS2009).
Verse 40 indicates that they were rejoicing that this persecution took place and that they were counted worthy to suffer for the name of the Messiah. Also, we see that regardless of the threat of harm, they never stopped teaching the testimony of Yahusha Messiah. We see many other accounts of persecution throughout Scripture, such as Stephens’s martyrdom in Acts 7, James’ murder by King Herod Agrippa in Acts 12, Paul and Silas being beaten and thrown into prison in Acts 16, Paul’s accounts of persecution in 2 Corinthians 11, and of course the persecution of Yahusha himself as detailed in the synoptic gospels.
So what we can clearly see from the death of Yahusha, Stephen, and others is their attitude and example of spiritual maturity. Their response to the harshest persecution imaginable, being murdered, was a desire in their heart for the Father to forgive the persecutors, for they did not know what they were doing. The hope of repentance and redemption still remains even for them.
This is the heart of our Messiah Yahusha, and I pray he gives us all the same heart. I love the example shown in Acts 2:14-41 following the miracle of the Holy Spirit granting tongues of different languages to share the gospel message. In verse 37, after hearing Peter’s explanation of Scripture and the testimony of Messiah, these people were pierced to the heart. Realizing now that they had participated in the persecution and murder of Messiah, they ask Peter, “What shall we do”? To which Peter replies in verse 28, “Repent, and let each one of you is immersed (mikvah) in the Name of Yahusha Messiah for the forgiveness of sins. And you shall receive the gift of the Set-apart Spirit.”
Our Behavior Is Our Witness
Sharing our faith with those who do not believe in the Bible, Yahuah the Creator, or Yahusha, His Son, and treating them with kindness and respect, is undoubtedly a crucial aspect of our responsibilities as believers.
But how can they call on Him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about Him? And how can they hear without a preacher? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who announce the gospel of good things! Romans 10:14 HCSB)
The verse clearly asks, how can the lost believe in Yahuah, his Torah, and the redemption available to them through Yahusha Messiah if they never hear about them? Many believers in the United States take it for granted that most people have at least heard of the Bible, but according to a 2021 Statista survey[a], 29% of Americans have never even read the Bible. The same study also points out that only 11% of Americans read their Bible daily. That, of course, means the remaining 60% are somewhere in between.
Romans chapters 10 and 11 focus on Israel’s rejection of Yah’s ways and the Messiah, yet conclude with a hopeful reminder that it is not too late for them to return to Yahuah; they can still be grafted back into Yah’s kingdom.
Brothers and sisters, if these figures tell us anything, it is that most of the people in America are either lost or are being pulled further away from the principles and laws taught in the Bible. It’s no wonder that we are witnessing lawlessness abound in America. Unjust or perverse “laws” continue to be instituted, which are contrary to Scripture and the Torah. This is because 89% of them don’t read, study, or understand the Creator’s words or commands. And to no surprise of the believer, we all clearly see these people continuing to descend in wickedness. 2 Peter 3:9 says,
“יהוה is not slow in regard to the promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward us, not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (TS2009)
Therefore, we should never give up on witnessing to the lost because the reality is that many of these men and women are victims of deceit from both the evil one and wicked people. We must remember that as Paul states in 1 Timothy 1:9-11:
But we know that the law is good, provided one uses it legitimately. We know that the law is not meant for a righteous person, but for the lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinful, for the unholy and irreverent, for those who kill their fathers and mothers, for murderers, for the sexually immoral and homosexuals, for kidnappers, liars, perjurers, and for whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching.
Mark 16:15 also tells us to “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” (ESV)
Additionally, Yahuah instructs Jeremiah 1:7-8 in this way:
Then the Lord said to me: Do not say, “I am only a youth,” for you will go to everyone I send you to and speak whatever I tell you. Do not be afraid of anyone, for I will be with you to deliver you. This is the Lord’s declaration. (HCSB)
This instruction is just as valid for believers today. We must never stop reaching out to the lost or trying to teach them the difference between righteousness and wickedness because this is indeed a Gospel Worth Dying For. If it means that just one more soul is led to salvation in Yahusha messiah, the truth of Yahuah’s ways, then it is worth it.
There is also the matter of how Scripture teaches us to treat people. Matthew 5:16 reads,
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (ESV)
Likewise, we are urged in Luke 6 and Matthew 5 to love our enemies, do good to them, and pray for them. This doesn’t mean we yoke ourselves with evil people because Proverbs 4 warns us to stay away from the path of the wicked. But inevitably, we do interact with the world in our daily lives. When we do we must remember Romans 12:4, 1 Peter 3:9, and follow the directives given in Proverbs 24:17-18…
Don’t gloat when your enemy falls, and don’t let your heart rejoice when he stumbles, or the Lord will see, be displeased, and turn His wrath away from him.
We must remember that vengeance is Yahuah’s6. Yah will contend with the darkness, evil, and the wicked in His timing. We as believers need to remain focused on Messiah Yahusha’s instructions to let the light of our redeemed life shine before mankind.
Consider it this way: the world of the lost is like a ship caught in a violent storm, surrounded by darkness, wind, rain, hail, and lightning. The people are adrift at sea, tossed by the turbulent waves. Their only hope is the guiding light of a lighthouse, which can lead them safely back to shore, allowing them to stand on solid ground. Yet, the storm also batters the lighthouse itself, subjecting it to the relentless assault of rain, hail, wind, and lightning. Despite this, the lighthouse must remain steadfast, enduring the storm’s fury to provide a beacon of hope.
Praise Yahuah that the lighthouse is maintained by the most capable keeper imaginable, the Ruach Hakodesh, and its light reflects the goodness and safety found in Yahusha Messiah. Our role is to endure the challenges because we cherish the light within us. Our heart’s desire should align with the light’s aim: to guide those lost at sea to safety so they can walk in the light again. However, those adrift must choose to seek the light and steer their course toward it once they see it. While Yah will assist them on their journey, the choice remains theirs.
Navigating Disagreements with Grace and Respect
Last but not least, it is essential to consider how we treat fellow believers who may disagree with our interpretation of Scripture. If you have stuck with reading this article thus far, I would encourage you to read through my article Patience Rooted in Love. In it, I outline how Yah’s word guides us on how to show love and patience toward one another in circumstances of differing scriptural understanding.
Brother Matthew Janzen once stated, “We are in the same school, but we are not all in the same grade.” I like this statement because it reminds us that we are all in this together; we are all still learning, but we are not all at the same point in our studies or understanding.
I would also add that we should be reminded to remain humble because this school, the School of Torah Keeping and Belief in Yahusha Messiah, doesn’t end at grade 12. We continue to be students our entire lives, so we must remain diligent, humble, and kind throughout this walk.
Reverend John Watson (1850-1907) once said, “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.” This walk is challenging for all of us at times. When we are at our lowest points, we often need someone to reach out and pick us up. Likewise, we should be ready to lift others up at their low points.
As Galatians 6:2 points out, we are to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11 reminds us, “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”
You might be asking yourself, but what about mainstream Christians who reject Yahuah’s commandments and believe all of the Law is done away with? That attitude would fall into one of the categories discussed in this article. Hopefully, they are in the same school – the school of Yahuah – and they are only in a lower grade and responding as a youthful, immature student often does when challenged with information that is contrary to their current understanding.
Or, they may fall into the category of the ‘world’ – participating in deception and joining in on the persecution of Yah’s people. Of which I sincerely hope they are not, but as we can see from Scripture, many of them are. Nonetheless, their negative response to our obedience to Torah observance should not sway us because either way, we must continue to be the light and flavorful salt of the earth. We must continue being kind, loving, and building one another up.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I pray that it has blessed you and challenged you to delve deeper into Yahuah’s word, draw closer to him, and act daily as the representatives of Messiah Yahusha that we are all called to be.
FOOTNOTES
1 In the context of Matthew 5:3–12, the word beatitude means a specific declaration of blessedness, and these declarations and promises are often found in the Psalms of the Old Testament.
2 A cakewalk is an absurdly or surprisingly easy task.
3 Strong’s #G3107
4 Strong’s #G1377
5 Strong’s #H1288
6 Deuteronomy 32:25, Romans 12:19, Hebrews 10:30, and Psalm 94:1
[a] Bible readership in the U.S. 2021 | Statista.com
It is hard to believe, but we are only a few months away from Sukkot – the Feast of Tabernacles. Recognizing that we no longer live under a Temple system, the Father is honored when His children do what they can to memorialize this important Festival.
Faith brothers and sisters are scattered all over this earthly realm. Unfortunately, not everyone will have friends nearby to join them in this 7+ day Festival. But you still have options.
Whether you plan to celebrate solo, with family, or with a group, here are some suggestions to help you prepare for these upcoming days of joy.
Celebrating Solo
If you will be celebrating solo, here are some things you can do:
Try to plan your vacation time around the feast days.
If you can’t get the entire time off from work, request days off on the 1st and 8th days of the festival. Or, set aside time each day for prayer, praise, and worship.
Construct a sukkah or booth in your apartment, flat, patio, or backyard. You can even pitch a small pop-up tent inside your apartment for the week.
Cut some palm tree branches and wave them while listening to praise & worship music.
Celebrating with Family
If building a backyard Sukkah is impractical, consider traveling to a nearby park or recreational area that allows for tent or recreational vehicle (RV) camping. Invite others who follow the Torah to join you.
Sukkot is not ‘just camping’ so try to align your activities as closely as possible to what is written in the Scriptures. (Lev 23:33-44, Deut 16:13-15, Num 29:12)
Assign various family members activities that fit their gifts and interests. Someone who is musically gifted can lead worship. Others can lead scripture discussion groups.
Build a campfire each night (if allowed) to encourage fellowship.
Again, try to plan vacation days to coincide with these feast days.
Celebrating with a Group
Finding a Sukkot group can be tricky if you are new to the Torah and have not met others who share your understanding of scripture or maturity level. When beliefs collide during the feast days, it can get ugly. Over the years our ministry has heard stories of people leaving in a huff because they were offended by other’s interpretations of scripture meanings. This is why it is important for you to thoroughly research Sukkot groups who promote gatherings online. This is an important first step.
If the ministry you follow online offers a fellowship finder app, this is even better. Download the app and register. Most are zip-code (in the US) linked, so it is not hard to connect with others in your area. Just be transparent when you reach out and let the person know how you found them.
If you want to host your own gathering, the fellowship finder method also works. Here are some steps to follow:
Decide who will host the gathering and publish their contact email addresses.
Scout a location to host the gathering. A state park is an excellent resource.
Once you decide on a location, look for zip codes within a reasonable drive to the location. For example, if you want to host the event in Waco, Texas, draw a 50-mile perimeter around the city and contain those who fall within that distance. It is up to you to decide how small or big you want the gathering to be.
Write a detailed introductory email explaining the who, what, when, where, why, and how — especially how you found them. Here is an example email:
Create a webpage where people can get details, including contact email addresses.
Plan Q & A Zoom meetups to get feedback and enlist volunteers to help with Sukkot planning.
Final Thoughts on Prepping for Sukkot 2024
While this is not an exhaustive guide, it should be enough to get you started. The important thing to remember is why we gather in the first place. When we honor YHWH by observing His appointed times, we become anchored to our spiritual roots and stir up our faith in a glorious future as resurrected Kingdom people. Historically these pilgrimage feasts were beneficial for the people of Yah in several ways:
These annual gatherings put the numerical strength and beauty of Yah’s people on display to the world.
Leaving our daily routines and getting out into nature restores our health and well-being.
Children and young adults realize they are not ‘weird’ when they bond with each other Yah’s way.
We enlarge our understanding of the Scriptures in an atmosphere of love and appreciation for what YHWH and Yeshua have done for us.
We get a ‘taste’ of what the Kingdom will be like.
We demonstrate our commitment to obey YHWH’s commandments by honoring His feast days.
Hope this helps. We pray your Sukkot will be filled with joy this year.
Contrary to what you may think, prayer is not just casual conversation with Eloah — the living God. Our prayers should be based on Scriptural promises and taken seriously, without the need for excessive wording to gain Yah’s attention. Our approach to prayer matters.
Sadly, most believers have never received instruction in the proper protocol for entering the throne room of Heaven. Instead, many of us were fed a top 10 list of why we fail to pray. The good news is it is never too late to learn how to pray. The keys are in your Bible.
Disciples Pray
Yeshua expects his disciples to pray.
Therefore I say to you, whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you have received, and it will be done for you.
Mark 11:24
Although this verse implies that we will get a blank check to receive whatever we ask, nothing could be further from the truth. Prayer has its protocol. We are instructed to pray to the Father in the name of the Son by the direction and power of the Ruach Ha’Kodesh (Holy Spirit). This will get us to the starting point. But there is more to consider.
Here is a list of 10 principles for effective prayer:
#1 Believe that the Father loves you
We do not have an emotionally distant heavenly Father. He loves us just as much as when we are obedient as when we fall into sin. After Adam and Chavah1 broke the covenant in the Garden of Eden, YHWH (Yahuah)provided a way for humanity to be redeemed through faith in a coming Messiah.2 (Genesis 3)
Just as the prodigal’s father welcomed him with open arms when he returned home, we can all expect a similar reception from Yahuah when we come to him in prayer. (Luke 15:11-32)
So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!
Luke 11:13
In his sermon on the mount, Yeshua gave us instructions on how to pray. (Matthew 6:5-13) He stressed the importance of getting alone with the Father in a private place. (Mark 1:35)
In corporate prayer, where two or more are gathered to petition the Father, we pray as one body for a desired outcome. (Acts 2:42) (Matthew 18:20) (Psalm 34:3)
When the disciples asked Yeshua why they were unable to drive a demon out of a boy he replied: ‘This kind is able to come forth with nothing except with prayer.’ (Mark 9:29)3
The Hebrew word for intercession is paga, which is defined as “having an effect by accident or violence, or (figuratively) by opportunity.” The Greek equivalent is huperentugchano, which simply means “to intercede on behalf of or for the sake of.” Jamie Rohrbaugh defines intercession as “colliding with God violently until His will is enforced on the earth.” This kind of aggressive prayer warfare is necessary when we face seemingly insurmountable odds such as catastrophic illness or the impending failure of a marriage.
#2 Faith triumphs over wishful thinking
Our prayers ought to begin with faith. We must believe that our petitions will be heard and answered in Yah’s way and in His timing.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6
According to Biblical Illustrator, the term faith “expresses a confidence or persuasion of the truth of anything not self-evident, received upon the testimony of another.” The testimony here is that of Yahuah’s character. He delights to hear and answer our prayers. But if we doubt his promise to come to our aid, then prayer is pointless.
Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see
Hebrews 11:1
Biblical faith is not a pipe dream or wishful thinking. In Matthew’s gospel, when Yeshua caused the fig tree to wither, the disciples wanted to know how he did it. His explanation tied the moving of a mountain to belief.
“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “if you have faith and do not doubt, not only will you do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”
Matthew 21:21,22
The Greek word for faith used here is pistis. It means being fully persuaded or having the moral conviction of the truthfulness of Yahuah. When we possess unwavering faith, we can be confident that we will receive whatever we ask for — in Yah’s timing and in His way.
#3 The Holy Spirit must guide you
Prayer is not a way for us to get Yah to do what we want. It is a way for us to become an instrument for Eloah to do what He wants. This mindset requires that we renounce our own will and embrace His.
And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.
1 John 5:14
According to theologian Albert Barnes, the limitation “according to His will” probably means in accordance with what He has declared He is willing to grant. Put another way, Yah limits the answer to prayer to what He believes to be best for us.
The expression must limit the petition to what it will be consistent for God to bestow upon us.We can‘t expect that he will work a miracle to answer our prayers; we can’t ask him to bestow blessings in violation of any of the laws which he has ordained or in any other way than that which he has appointed. The expression must limit the promise to what will be for the good of the whole. The interests of the whole creation as well as the individuals are to be regarded.
To be led by the Spirit is to submit to the Spirit’s influence and control. How does this translate practically? We strive to obey the Torah (instructions for living). The Spirit’s direction as we obey the commandments marks us as His children.
Since prayer is a major weapon of spiritual warfare we must rely on the Ruach Ha’Kodesh (Holy Spirit) to guide us. (Romans 8:14) To become a child of Eloah, we must be born by His Ruach — without which we can not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
The key is learning how to be led by the Spirit. We must allow the Spirit to pray through us the type of prayer that needs to be prayed for the situation we face.
When we release the reins of our soul, the Ruach liberates our spirit to pray effectively through “groaning too deep for words.” The Spirit gives us the right prayer to utter in our own language — a prayer we never would have prayed when left to ourselves. It is an activity of our spirit that goes beyond our mind’s ability to understand.
#4 We must ask in the authority of Yeshua’s name
And whatsoever you shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.
John 14:13,14
Three things are implied when we pray in the name of Yeshua.
We come to Eloah on the basis of what Yeshua has done for us (1 Peter 3:18) (Ephesians 2:13) (Hebrews 12:24)
We come on the basis of Yeshua’s position as our mediator and High Priest (1 John 2:1)
We come on the basis of the relationship we have with the Father through him (Ephesians 1:3-6)
The Father had an eternal purpose before Creation ever took place. He had foreknowledge of us and determined that through Yeshua he would adopt us into his family as his children.
When we pray in Yeshua’s name, it is equivalent to saying “on Yeshua’s account.” When someone with money in a bank authorizes another person to draw on their account, it is similar to how we are given permission to ask the Father for anything in the name of the Son. Because the Father is well pleased in Yeshua and we are friends of the Son, he answers our prayers.
#5 Our motives must be pure
Our desire to glorify Yah is always the right motive. It is our sole purpose for living. Prayer is just one of the ways Yah has ordained for us to give Him glory.
And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
John 14:13
When we pray, we need to ask ourselves: Am I praying for this thing out of the old or new self (man)? Is my request being made because I want it or because Yahuah wants it for me? When we try to force our own will through, we do not make room for the will of Eloah.
Now to the one who is able to do beyond all measure more than all that we ask or think, according to the power this is at work in us, to Him be the glory int he ekklesia and in Yeshua HaMoshiach to all generations forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 3: 20,21
Prayer is a way for us to become an instrument for Yah to do what He wants in our lives. The right motive for prayer is to bring glory to Yah. Our purpose for living is to glorify the Father through the Son.
And I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
John 14:13
#6 Humility matters
The hallmark of our Messiah’s life and ministry was humility.
Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.
Philippians 2:5-8
Like our Messiah, we must throw aside pride and self-centeredness when we approach the Father in prayer. We must come to a place in our spiritual maturity where we seek Yahuah’s solution to our problems and challenges in life. Ministry can not be motivated by selfish ambition. The only way to deal with it is to die to “self.”
In laying off your burdens, therefore, the first one you must get rid of is yourself. You must hand yourself and all your inward experiences, your temptations, your temperament, your frames, and reelings, all over into the care and keeping of your God, and leave them there. He made you and therefore He understands you, and knows how to manage you, and you must trust Him to do it.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.
James 4:10
#7 Prayer is our priestly duty
As citizens of the coming Kingdom, we must learn to minister as priests, offering the kind of sacrifices — of prayer and praise — that Yah requires in this age.
And yourselves, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house for a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Yeshua.
1 Peter 2:5
The word for priest in Hebrew is kohen. It means “chief ruler; one who officiates and judges or mediates in religious services.” The first mention of the word priest is in Genesis when Abraham encounters Melchizedek. This is the eternal order of priesthood that Yeshua belongs to. This priestly order came before the Levitical order, which was tied to genealogy.
This Melchizedek was king of Salem and priest of God Most High. He met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him, and Abraham apportioned to him a tenth of everything. First, his name means “king of righteousness.” Then also, “king of Salem” means “king of peace.” Without father or mother or genealogy, without beginning of days or end of life, like the Son of God, he remains a priest for all time.
Hebrews 7:1-3
One day believers will rule and reign with Yeshua in the Kingdom of Heaven on earth. In order to rule, we first have to learn to minister as priests in prayer. As we learn to pray, we become qualified to rule as priests. In essence, we learn to rule “rightly” through the discipline of prayer.
Priests are intercessors and judges. Unlike corrupt judges in our secular world who are easily bribed, those who inherit positions of authority in the Kingdom will possess integrity. At that time we will be equipped to always judge righteously because of the permanent indwelling of the Spirit in an incorruptible resurrection body. Our judgments will be based on an error-free understanding of the eternal Word of Yahuah that will be permanently etched on our circumcised hearts. This is a promise of the New Covenant. (Hebrews 8:6-13)
#8 Our personal relationships must be healthy
Before praying, we should make every effort to reconcile with our brother or sister if there is something we have done that has wounded them.
And when you stand to pray, if you hold anything against another, forgive it, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your trespasses as well.
Mark 11:25
Our modern-day, post-temple “gifts and sacrifices” that we bring to the altar are our prayers that are steeped in praise. Believers are not to behave like petulant children. We are called to handle disputes in mature love, with the goal of restoration and reconciliation in mind.
So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.
Matthew 5:23,24
Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise, the fruit of lips that confess His name. And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Hebrews 13:15,16
Healthy relationships between brothers and sisters in the faith matter to the Father. We can’t expect Eloah to hear our petitions or forgive us if our relationship with a fellow believer is broken. It is our responsibility to reconcile before entering Yahuah’s presence. In doing so we approach the Father with a clear conscience and renewed confidence that our prayers will be heard. (Matthew 18:23-24)
#9 We approach the Father with confidence
Yeshua laid down his life willingly so sinful humanity could be forgiven and become eligible to receive eternal life. This selfless act made on our behalf means we can be confident in our prayer life.
When you were dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our trespasses, having canceled the debt ascribed to us in the decrees that stood against us. He took it away, nailing it to the cross!
Colossians 2:13,14
Walking in the Spirit means we are doing our best to obey the Torah’s instructions on how to live righteously. Our conscience is clear knowing that we will not be condemned as a result of sin — which is transgression of the law. The gospel of grace made possible by our High Priest Yeshua sets us free from the condemnation of the law.
There is therefore now no condemnation of those who are in Yeshua Hamashiach.
Romans 8:1
#10 Fasting energizes prayer for a breakthrough
Sometimes circumstances dictate that we combine prayer with fasting. Humbling ourselves by denying our bodies food (and sometimes water too) is a practice that few avail themselves of today. But the scriptures are full of examples where fasting sowed the seed for the miraculous to happen.
Esther’s preparation before petitioning the King on behalf of Israel (Esther 4:15-17)
Moses on Mt. Sinai (Deuteronomy 9:9-18)
When Darius spent the night fasting after Daniel was cast in the lion’s den. (Daniel 6:18)
The sparing of Nineveh (Jonah 3)
When Daniel sought understanding regarding the end of the 70 years in Babylon (Daniel 9:3)
Elijah’s escape from Jezebel (1 Kings 19:4-8)
Yeshua’s fast before his testing in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1,2)
However, no amount of fasting will move Eloah’s heart if our behaviors and motives are rotten. Isaiah the Prophet makes this clear. (Isaiah 58) Fasting is not meant to twist the Father’s arm to get what we want. It is designed to prioritize the Spirit’s leading over the flesh’s demands. It helps us reign in our thoughts and emotions to line up with the Word.
Final Thoughts on Effective Prayer
As we come to our Father in prayer we must always remember that we have been invited to this throne to receive mercy. A throne denotes a King. In the case of the believer, the King is the Supreme ruler of Creation — Yahuah.
Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Hebrews 4:16
According to the Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, when grace is mentioned in scripture, the focus of attention is not on the giver, but on the recipient, of what is given. The Greek form of the word is charis (G5485), which is defined as “a pleasing circumstance, matter of approval, beneficial opportunity, or act of favor.” Eleos, the word for mercy, implies “compassion, kindness, or goodwill towards the miserable and afflicted, joined with a desire to help.” (G1656)
We have been invited to enter the throne room of the Sovereign ruler of all things. We come, not relying on our own merits but on the shed blood of Yeshua, our righteous Savior. Knowing this allows us to approach with humble expectations of mercy and the blessed assurance that our Father will always act in our best interest.
FOOTNOTES
1 Chavah (H2332) is a Hebrew word meaning life giver or to live. This is harmonious with the description in Genesis 3:20 — “…because she was the mother of all living.” So where did the English transliteration Eve come from? According to Robert Alter [“The Five Books of Moses”, 2004, Commentary on Genesis iii.20]: “In the Hebrew here, the phonetic similarity is between hawah, “Eve,” and the verbal root hayah, “to live.” It has been proposed that Eve’s name conceals very different origins, for it sounds suspiciously like the Aramaic word for “serpent.” Others link the name “Eve” to the word “evil” and blame the woman for bringing sin down on the entire world.
2Albert Barnes Commentary on Genesis 3: “Up to a certain point there had been concord and alliance between these two parties. But, on the very opening of the heavenly court, we learn that the friendly connection had been broken. For the woman said, “The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.” This expression indicates that the woman was no longer at one with the serpent. When God, therefore, said, “I will put enmity between thee and the woman,” this revulsion of feeling on her part, in which Adam no doubt joined, was acknowledged and approved. Enmity with the enemy of God indicated a return to friendship with God, and presupposed incipient feelings of repentance toward him, and reviving confidence in his word. The perpetuation of this enmity is here affirmed, in regard not only to the woman but to her seed. This prospect of seeing, and of a godly seed, at enmity with evil, became a fountain of hope to our first parents and confirmed every feeling of returning reverence for God which was beginning to spring up in their breast. The word heard from the mouth of God begat faith in their hearts, and we shall find that this faith was not slow to manifest itself in acts.”
3 In some Bible translations, Mark 9:29 omits the word fasting. Similarly, in chapter 17 of Matthew’s gospel, there is no mention of prayer and/or fasting in many translations. The disciples’ inability to drive out the unclean spirit is attributed to a lack of faith. The Codex Sianaiticus and Codex Vaticanus do not include the verse.
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