"Answered Prayer"

 

“Answered Prayer”

 

In the Thompson Chain Reference Bible, my primary study tool for over 60 years, only God and Christ have more “sub-subjects” than prayer. There are many promises of answers and specific examples of God’s responses to the requests brought to Him by His people. In His words of encouragement to His disciples the night of His arrest Jesus assured them that “You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:14, emphasis added). Decades later His friend wrote, “…If we ask anything according to his will, he heard us.” (1 John 5:14, emphasis added). Years ago I heard a preacher say that if God’s conditions are met He’ll answer with yes, no or not now. Here are three incidents from my recent past that I’ve seen this up close and personal.

My brother Dave and his wife Jean were in a horrendous car wreck in May 2022. Jean wasn’t seriously hurt but we almost lost Dave—his two kids were told to get his affairs in order by hospital personnel. But God’s people prayed, God touched him directly and through the skills He gave medical personnel and after seven weeks in ICU and three more in rehab he returned home. Today he’s functioning normally and rejoicing in God’s goodness as are many others.

I keep in touch with a retired Army chaplain and his wife who divide their post-military time with ministry in Korea and the U.S. Several months ago he asked me to pray for his wife’s eye issue which threatened her sight and for financial provision as the treatment wasn’t covered by insurance. Many prayed, God brought healing and the financial need was met. As I write this they’re in Korea ministering to God’s people there.

In late April I began experiencing muscle stiffness and fatigue which worsened over a three week period. Karen and I prayed and she did some internet research and found an autoimmune condition which checked the boxes. My primary care doctor took it seriously and referred me to a rheumatologist who confirmed the diagnosis and prescribed treatment. Today I’m moving about normally thanks to God’s working through prayer, people and medications.

As the Jewish people made their way to Jerusalem for their annual celebrations they sang “Songs of Ascents” (Psalms 120-134). I and others impacted by the incidents cited above echo the words of Psalm 126:3: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” Please rejoice and praise God with us for the (in the words of hymn writer Fanny Crosby) “…great things He hath done….”

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan