Why Pray if God Has Already Decided Everything?
How do we reconcile the fact that God has predetermined every event with the power of prayer to actually change things? According to John MacArthur, author of The Power of Praying, the answer lies in a correct understanding of God’s providential determination.
Determinism ≠ Fatalism
Most Calvinists believe in determinism, which holds that God has predetermined every single event (not to be confused with fatalism, which holds that our choices have no bearing on the future). What happens in the future is determined by what we do and pray in the present.
Prayer Changes the Future
God responds to prayer in both Scripture and our experience. Moses prayed for food and water for the Israelites; Hannah prayed for a child; Elijah prayed for drought and then rain. To say that we don’t need to pray because God has already decided everything is ridiculous.
God Ordains Our Prayers
God has ordained his interventions to be in response to faith-fueled petitions, so if your understanding of God’s providence leads you to pray less, you need to rethink your understanding.
What’s the point of praying if God already has a plan?
Prayer is communication with God. Because everything we need can be found in God and His Word, prayer is essential when seeking God’s plan and will for our lives. When we pray, God hears us and responds. We can also learn more about God’s heart and plan when we communicate with Him through prayer.
Why pray if everything is predestined?
u201cIf God’s providence ordains all things that come to pass according to the immutable law of His purpose, then what need is there for prayer? We cannot change God’s decrees with our most fervent prayers.u201d
Why does God not answer some prayers?
– If you knowingly condone sin, whether it’s happening to you or to someone else, and don’t correct it, you’re’regarding iniquity in your heart,’ and should therefore disregard God answering your prayers.
Does prayer really matter?
Prayer, for example, can be a reliable source of self-soothing and self-comfort when one is in pain, grieving a loss, or dealing with traumatic events, according to research.
Can prayer change God’s will?
We, like Abraham, frequently pray for things. u201cI, the Lord, do not change.u201d (Malachi 3:6) Praying to change God’s will is arrogant, as it implies that we know better than God. In Gethsemane, Jesus set the example by praying for God’s will to be done, not His own.
Is everything predestined by God?
One cannot change one’s destiny; everything is predetermined; and, while even god cannot help, putting one’s trust in him will make one feel less burdened.
Should we pray about everything?
‘Do not be concerned about anything; instead, pray about everything, telling God what you need and thanking him for everything he has done, and you will experience God’s peace, which is beyond our comprehension.’
Does God change his mind?
God is unchangeable. Several passages in the Old Testament show God appearing to change his mind, usually in response to a judgment he pronounces on Israel; however, some passages in the Old Testament appear to teach that God does not change his mind at all.
What is the prayer that never fails?
There are none who can withstand Your power, Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (three times).
What do I do when God is silent?
Bring it to the Lord, speak to him, be honest in front of him, trust that he hears you, take refuge in his faithfulness, and know that there is a mighty God who loves you behind every heavy silence.
How do you ask God for something you really want?
God can answer vague prayers, but being specific creates a stronger bond between you and Him. Tell God what you want or need and ask Him to provide it for you.
Is there any evidence that prayer works?
While some religious groups argue that the power of prayer is obvious, others question whether it is possible to measure its effect, empirical research indicates that prayer and intercessory prayer have no discernible effects.
Does God answer all prayers?
When the answer is “yes,” God answers our prayers and His response is exactly what we asked for; we are overjoyed. When the answer is “no,” this is not what we hoped for, and we frequently interpret the “no” as God having not answered our prayers; when what we pray for does not match God’s will.
Does God hear my prayers?
We are taught in the scriptures that if we address God with faith and real intent, He will always hear our prayers and will answer them; in our hearts, we will feel the confirmation that He does hear us, a sense of peace and calm; and we will also feel that everything will be fine if we follow the Father’s will.