Isn’t prayer designed for the person who knows God and truly wants to be changed by Him?

on Mar 3, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: When I hear so much talk about prayer by people, it seems a rather new phenomenon and is becoming a cultural norm, but it doesn’t really seem to change people’s attitudes. Isn’t prayer designed for the person who knows God and truly wants to be changed by Him? – P.P.

A: The practice of prayer for believers in Christ equips people to pray effectively amid the pressures of jobs, school, and community relations. Prayer is the best way to prepare for whatever is in store for us in the critical and testing times of life. When difficulties come, we don’t have to be dependent on the circumstances around us, but on the hidden resource within us – and that is God Himself.

True prayer is a way of life and strengthens us in our daily walk with Jesus Christ. We should make prayer a habit, not a ritual. Prayer builds our relationship with the Lord. We should never be too busy to pray, just as we should never be too busy to spend time with those we love. Habits can often become rituals that make no impact, but prayer is a vital link in having strength and endurance.

Prayer drives people to God – and God is ready to listen and answer. What a privilege that so many miss out on! Prayer unifies and energizes the believer. It can be a reminder that we do not have to go out into the world without the power of God going with us. Only by direct contact with God through prayer can we hope to have the serenity and security that will enable us to be a witness for Him in a dark and confused world. When we know Him as our Lord and Savior, we can be sure that He hears our prayers.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)