What is important for God to Answer Prayer?
From the Hope Report, published by the WayMakers:
Some years ago, a businessman announced a web T-Shirt contest to be held at a drive-in theater in Richmond, Mo. Jill Nobel, a mother of five and prayer leader in this small town on the outskirts of Kansas City, read of the planned sexually explicit event. After praying and seeking the counsel of her pastor and husband, she felt that she should humbly request that the theater operator cancel the event in favor of a family-friendly activity. The theater operator refused the request, stating that he had already received over one hundred applicants. “You leave us no choice but to pray.” Jill declared. With friends she prayerwalked around the theater, asking God’s mercy on the man, for the event to be canceled, and for righteousness in the city.
Days before the scheduled contest was to be held, an ad appeared in the local paper declaring that the wet T-Shirt contest was being canceled, “due to lack of interest.” The ad also stated that a future contest would be planned. So the prayer continued.
The local paper later reported a fire at the theater. The main structure was almost destroyed. Officials observed that it appeared that lightning had struck the theater, although there had been no thunderstorms. The theater operator blamed Jill’s prayers. He was more furious than frightened, and for years spoke bitterly against Jill and other Christians.
Ten years after the fire, Jill happened to encounter the man again in a public place. She was stunned to find him earnestly asking her to pray for him. “I was diagnosed with terminal cancer. I know God listens to you. Would you pleas pray for me?” Jill prayed on the spot.
Three months later, Jill was surprised to meet the man again in another public place. He was radiant. “I’m healed!”
Today the businessman, a declared Christian, serves in a local church. Where the theater grounds once stood, a family camping facility flourishes. Jill and her friends pray on.
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Discussion: What were some things that Jill did that enabled God to answer her prayer? I’ve listed about eight so far. Watch the blog in a few days for my list.