By Rev. Dr. Mark David albertson
The True Power of Prayer
How talking (and listening) to God can change everything.
Let’s be honest—prayer can feel like a mystery sometimes. One minute you’re asking for help, the next you’re not even sure if anyone’s listening. I’ve been there.
But I’ve learned a few things over the years. And I think they’re worth sharing.
Not Just for Emergencies
There’s this story I love. A pilot calls the control tower in total panic. He’s out of fuel, one engine’s on fire, and his landing gear won’t work. The dispatcher calmly replies, “Repeat after me: Our Father who art in heaven…”
It’s funny, but also kind of true. A lot of us treat prayer like that emergency box on the wall—break glass when all else fails.
But prayer is meant for more than crises. It’s not just about asking for stuff. It’s about relationship. It’s a way to talk to the One who already knows you and still wants to hear from you.
“Pray without ceasing.” —1 Thessalonians 5:17
It’s Personal
I didn’t always pray regularly. Honestly, I didn’t think I mattered enough to God. Or I figured I should handle life myself.
But eventually, I started praying more. And not just to ask for things. I started listening. Sitting with God. Just being still.
That changed everything.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” —Psalm 46:10
Prayer Is Powerful—Here’s How
1. Prayer gives answers.
When you ask God for help or clarity, you can trust that He’ll answer. Maybe through scripture. Maybe through your life circumstances. Either way, He hears you.
“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” —Jeremiah 33:3
2. Prayer gives direction.
When I’ve prayed about big decisions, I’ve gotten guidance. Not always the answer I expected, but the direction I needed.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” —Proverbs 3:5–6
3. Prayer gives strength.
Life gets heavy. Prayer reminds me I’m not carrying it alone. Scientists even say prayer helps your health—lower blood pressure, less stress, even better immunity. But beyond all that, prayer connects you to God’s strength when yours runs out.
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” —Isaiah 40:29
4. Prayer helps you accept God’s will.
Sometimes what I want and what God wants don’t match. Prayer helps align my heart with His.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.” —Isaiah 55:8–9
5. Prayer teaches compassion.
When I pray for others, I start to feel what they feel. I see them differently. That kind of empathy changes how I act in the world.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” —Galatians 6:2
6. Prayer brings thankfulness.
Even a simple “thank you” is a powerful prayer. It humbles us. Grounds us. Draws us closer to God.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” —1 Thessalonians 5:18
Prayer Connects Us
Theresa of Avila said it best:
“Prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.”
That’s what prayer is really about—friendship. Connection. Being part of God’s family.
If you’ve struggled with prayer, I get it. I have too. But I encourage you to try again. Start small. Keep it honest. And if you’re already praying regularly, maybe this is your nudge to go deeper.
God’s listening.
Rev. Dr. Mark David Albertson is Faith Formation Coordinator at Song Song Anthem in Henderson, Nevada. He is the former director of Christian Conciliation Service of Puget Sound, has served as adjunct instructor at three seminaries, is former associate pastor of a Vineyard Church in Washington State, and is the author of four novels, including his upcoming historical novel, “The Just.”
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