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The Power of Simple Prayer: How to Talk with God About Everything

Review

The Power of Simple Prayer: How to Talk with God About Everything

How often do you talk to God? What do you say? What do you leave unsaid? New York Times bestselling author and Bible teacher Joyce Meyer explores what it really means to talk to God in her latest book, THE POWER OF SIMPLE PRAYER.

If asked for one observation on prayer, Meyer says she would emphasize the simplicity of it. Though much has been written, discussed and debated relating to the topic of prayer, Meyer says that what surprised her most is that God has not made prayer complicated but rather incredibly simple. Sometimes we're tempted to create systems and postures to make prayer much more difficult than it really needs to be. In fact, God designed prayer to be one of the easiest things we do each day!

In 14 easy-to-read chapters, Meyer explores various aspects of prayer beginning with the simple privilege we all have in being able to talk to God. Prayer opens the door for God to work. But don't be mistaken: Once that door opens, prayer packs a power punch! When people pray, all kinds of things happen. They are healed, protected, strengthened and blessed. Through prayer lives are changed forever.

Prayer is not optional; it's part of an obedient lifestyle. That's why Meyer encourages each person to find out how to uniquely pray to God with the freedom to express yourself to Him in ways that are natural and not forced. In fact, prayer can be as easy as breathing. Meyer provides practical ways to become a living prayer --- praying everywhere you go in all circumstances and situations.

Meyer says that one of the most powerful prayers we will ever pray is for our enemies. Those who are mighty in prayer are those who pray for their enemies like Job. Jesus made this clear in Matthew 5 when he instructed us to pray for those who use and persecute you. But one of the unique prayers that Meyer highlights is the prayer of agreement. She argues that unity is a powerful and dynamic element to prayer. According to Psalm 133, it is good and even garners God's blessing. When two or more gather in Jesus's name, God promises to be with them, and the scripture tells us that if one can make 1,000 run away, then two can run off 10,000. Such unity doesn't come just when we pray together, but when we live in agreement with each other avoiding the pitfalls of gossip and slander that can tear people apart.

In addition, Meyer highlights 14 hindrances to answered prayer, including prayerlessness, sin, wrong motives, doubt, worry and unforgiveness.

Overall, this book speaks to the heart of the matter concerning prayer. It's clearly written and accessible. Both new and veteran believers will benefit from the truths and insights provided here.

Reviewed by Margaret Oines on April 3, 2007

The Power of Simple Prayer: How to Talk with God About Everything
by Joyce Meyer

  • Publication Date: April 3, 2007
  • Genres: Christian, Christian Living
  • Hardcover: 299 pages
  • Publisher: FaithWords
  • ISBN-10: 0446531960
  • ISBN-13: 9780446531962