Prayer is Effective. Use it.

There are times where life hits us and just strikes a nerve with us, causing a change in attitude and to recognize what really matters. We all go through struggles and it’s important that we remember to look to the right places for comfort, understanding, help, and healing during these times. This is one of those times for a particular family in my church and it’s pulling at my heart to share.

The Inspiration for This

Madison Davis is 6 years old. She has been battling cancer with a good amount of success since she was 4 1/2 years old. Her parents, Destry and Christy Davis and her siblings, all have a very strong faith in God, even through the struggles they have had to endure. However, a recent scan showed that the cancer has come back in multiple places including her bone marrow and a spot on or near her lung. It’s times like this that many people give up, throw up their hands, and turn away from God. The Davis’ are holding faith that a miracle will be performed, but are obviously struggling with understanding God’s plan for Madison’s life and theirs.

Where Do You Look?

So like I said, we all have struggles, but where do you turn when things get tough? Do you look to God first or do you put more faith in the things you can touch and see, like, doctors or family? It’s a very legitimate question to ask, because more often than not, we get caught up in life and forget to put God first in all things. It’s times like these that the most effective tool God has given us is prayer. He loves to hear from us and loves us to cast our fears and concerns on Him. Nothing is too big for God.

Psalm 46:1 – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble
Matt 19:26 – Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Luke 1:37 – For nothing is impossible with God.
Luke 18:27 – Jesus replied, “What is impossible with men is possible with God.”

From these, and there’s many others, we can very plainly see that nothing is too big for God. Nothing is impossible. However, if we’re trying to solve a problem on our own, or looking for other people to do so, our efforts will most likely be in vain. The only way your problem or circumstance will be taken care of by God is if we put Him first. It’s also important to remember that we don’t know what God has in store for the situation and ultimately, it’s His will that should and will prevail. If the situation doesn’t turn out like you had hoped, remember that God’s plan is better and perfect.

And I mentioned prayer is an extremely effective tool that God has given us. Prayer changes things. And the more people pray, the easier a situation will become. It’s not that God is a genie of some sort that will grant a prayer based on the amount of people asking. He will still carry out His will even if it’s not what we were praying for. That’s where our prayers need to be focused. Take the Davis family for instance. Healing for Madison is the top priority, but understanding for whatever happens in the situation is also right up there with it. Remember, it’s His will we are seeking because His plan is perfect.

Seek Him First

Another important thing to remember is, to seek Him first in all we do. Not only will He provide you with what you need in life, He will provide you with wisdom and understanding in situations that we otherwise would have none. Seeking His will for our lives is extremely important and is something else that gets lost in the mix of life. I’m not saying it’s easy to focus on Him all the time, but it’s important. And if something is important, we would be foolish to not do it.

James 1:5 – If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach.

So back to Madison. She’s dealing with more than most people ever have to think about in their life. And she’s carrying an entire church (and beyond) on her back while doing so. There’s something to be said about a 6 year old that can go through what she’s been through and still smile every time you see her. And her parents are an incredible blessing to our church and the lives of all the people that know them. Their story is even reaching you right now, wherever you are. Their faith is strengthening people they probably will never meet. I sincerely hope that you join us in praying for Madison and her family. Consider the things mentioned above and try to keep focus on what really matters. I know that just in the writing of this, I’ve been humbled and reminded of what really matters.

For more information on Madison Davis, please see her journal and story.  I know they would be very happy to see how far her story as reached, so feel free to sign the guestbook as well.