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What does the Bible say about power of prayer?

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The Bible teaches that prayer is a powerful, God-ordained means by which believers humbly depend on their sovereign Father, seek his will, and receive his help. James 5:16 affirms that the prayer of a righteous person is effective, while John 14:14 and John 15:7 connect answered prayer with abiding in Christ and asking in his name. Believers are called to pray continually and thankfully, bringing every concern to God (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6). God also helps his children in weakness through the intercession of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26-27). Prayer does not control God, but trusts his wisdom, mercy, and faithful promises.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • James 5:16 7 votes

    Confess your offenses to one another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effective, earnest prayer of a righteous man is powerfully effective.

  • John 14:14 5 votes

    If you will ask anything in my name, I will do it.

  • John 15:7 5 votes

    If you remain in me, and my words remain in you, you will ask whatever you desire, and it will be done for you.

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:17 5 votes

    Pray without ceasing.

  • 2 Chronicles 7:14 5 votes

    if my people, who are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

  • Philippians 4:13 4 votes

    I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.

  • Philippians 4:6 4 votes

    In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.

  • Romans 8:26-27 3 votes

    [26] In the same way, the Spirit also helps our weaknesses, for we don't know how to pray as we ought. But the Spirit himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can't be uttered. [27] He who searches the hearts knows what is on the Spirit's mind, because he makes intercession for the saints according to God.

  • Mark 11:24 3 votes

    Therefore I tell you, all things whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them.

  • Matthew 7:7-8 3 votes

    [7] "Ask, and it will be given you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened for you. [8] For everyone who asks receives. He who seeks finds. To him who knocks it will be opened.

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