Craig T. Owens

This is a weekly series with things I’m reading and pondering from Oswald Chambers. You can read the original seed thought here, or type “Thursdays With Oswald” in the search box to read more entries.

Prayerful Havoc

     There are supernatural powers and agencies of which we are unconscious which, unless we are garrisoned by God, can play with us like toys whenever they choose. The New Testament continually impresses this on us. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rules of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). All that is outside the realm of our consciousness. 

     If we only look for results in the earthlies when we pray, we are ill-taught. A praying saint performs far more havoc amongst the unseen forces of darkness than we have the slightest notion of. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” We have not the remotest conception of what is done by our prayers, nor have we the right to try and examine and understand it; all we know is that Jesus Christ laid all stress on prayer. “And greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto My Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in My name, that will I do [John 14:12].” 

From Biblical Psychology (emphasis added)

What an amazing reminder! Prayer is doing havoc in the spiritual realm, but much of that realm is outside of my conscious awareness.

Prayer accomplishes much. I may not see it in the earthlies each time I pray, but I must remain confident that my prayers are always heard and always make an impact.

Don’t let the lack of “visible” results keep you from praying. You may not see with your natural eyes what is happening when you do pray, but you can be assured that nothing at all will happen if you don’t pray!

Remember: “A praying saint performs far more havoc amongst the unseen forces of darkness than we have the slightest notion of.”