It is pathetic that often we have the right to do what we have not the strength to accomplish, and seem to have abounding strength to do what we have no right to do. But when we exercise-our proper rights, God will supply strength enough. The important thing is authority. This comes when we position ourselves “in Him.” According to John 14: 13-14, to pray in the name of Jesus Christ is to have our prayers always granted.

The deep issue is that a prayer is not made in Jesus’ name simply by saying, “In Jesus’ name- amen.” When we intelligently position ourselves on the merits of Jesus Christ, prayer will be positively answered.

Jesus teaches that our prayers will not require any last-minute begging on His part.

In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God (John 16:26-27).

Notice that the success of this prayer relationship comes from our proper alignment with Jesus Christ.

As these great lessons are experienced and practiced, they will strengthen your effectiveness at every level of edification. So do not put prayer last.

It will be necessary that you seek both to expand your own prayer life and also to give practical assistance to those whose prayer life is dragging. Help others get started by praying with them and checking on them here and there.

It is very invigorating for one who is weak in prayer to know that another is joining with him at stated times, or that you have agreed on certain requests that you are laboring over together. If prayer is breathing, some of the brethren need resuscitation. So do be practical.

Does fasting help? Yes, if guarded and done in the Spirit. But an empty stomach does not guarantee a full heart. If you do fast, do not become passive or complacent. Rather, actively seek the Lord’s face before, during, and after the period of fasting.

According to Jesus, the most difficult cases yield only to serious prayer. “This kind can come out only by prayer (Mark 9:29).”

Taken from my book, People Helping People, available for order at Amazon.com.