Praying with the right motives

Bunkhouse Beacon - Praying with the right motives

James 4:3 NKJV says, “You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.”

Prayer is powerful, but its effectiveness depends on the condition of the heart. God listens not only to what we ask but also to why we ask. When our prayers are driven by selfish desires or pride, we “ask amiss.” But when they are aligned with God’s will and character, they move mountains.

Jesus modeled this perfectly in Luke 22:42 NKJV - Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done.

Right motives in prayer come from a surrendered heart; seeking God’s glory above our comfort, His purposes above our plans.

When we pray with humility, gratitude, and a desire to see God’s will done, our prayers become less about getting something from God and more about becoming someone for God.

Applying this to our prayer life

Before you pray, examine your heart: “Am I seeking God’s will or my own?”

Ask God to purify your motives so your prayers reflect His desires, not worldly ones.

Pray for kingdom impact—that your life and requests bring glory to Christ.

Grace and peace to you, and keep praying.

Lars