The Goal of Prayer is to Glorify God Our Father (10.19.14)

And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father - John 14:13

The goal of prayer is to get what we pray for, right? Wrong.
The goal of Christian prayer is to glorify the Father through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. GOD is glorified through the accomplishments of His will and the advancements of His Kingdom on earth. The Father is glorified by our obedience, spiritual growth and deepening relationship with Him.

Since we often ask for things outside of His Will, things that will not advance His Kingdom; we must develop our spiritual maturity and enrich our relationship with Him.  Unanswered prayer is a part of the normal Christian life. It is not an indication that GOD isn’t listening to us. Nevertheless, most of us persist in thinking, "there must be some way to get Him to give me what I ask."

More than a few are convinced that "things" such as: good works, offerings, vows, extreme discipline, praying at “holy” places, using blessing cloths, oil, icons, candles, persistence (repetition), and getting "large numbers to intercede" will incline GOD to listen to their prayers. Such ideas assume that there are "ways" to get “spiritual leverage” and apply “power” or “authority,” to facilitate receiving the answers that we “want.” There is no evidence in scripture that this is the case.

Does GOD lack, of course not.
Is He dependent on anything we might give, devote,
vow or sacrifice to and for Him? He is not.

The Bible says GOD doesn’t need anything 

we promise or give to Him. 

Is there any way we can obligate Him?
The Bible clearly says, we can never obligate, manipulate or control GOD. 

GOD controls all things and is all powerful!!! 

If you are praying for something and GOD has not answered,
it could be that what you are praying for is not His will for your life. 

Our Father know what is best for us.

For from him and through him and to him are all things: 

to whom be glory for ever. Amen - Romans 11:34-36, ESV

________
 

Awesome and Loving Father,

You don’t need anything I have to give, and yet,
You have promised to give me everything I need!
Your Word is clear, that all things are under Your control,
and that my prayers should always glorify You.

Help me to continually look for ways to bring pleasure to Your heart;
and to always be aware of  Your holy presence.

May my life be set upon the things that are upon Your heart,
attentive to whatever You call me to be
and to do in and for Your kingdom! 

In the name of Your Son Jesus,
Amen