The Hard Work Has Been Completed
“For whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.” – Hebrews 4:10, ESV
When Jesus died, He completed all the work necessary for us to have a relationship with Him. I used to think that I needed to do a lot of spiritual “warring” in prayer, but I have since learned that what God truly desires is prayer from the depth of my soul—honest, sincere, and trusting.
That doesn’t mean I haven’t spent hours in prayer, because I certainly have, and I know I will again. But those extended times are not about striving; they are about listening. Often, God speaks, gives direction, and guides me in how to pray.
In those moments, He shows me how to pray for others. He brings specific Scriptures to mind to pray on their behalf. He even stirs songs in my spirit to remind me of who He is and what He has already accomplished. Not long ago, He brought to mind the song Able by Jonathan McReynolds. Its words reminded me that I can come to God with confidence and peace, knowing He will take care of everything—because, in truth, He already has. There is no problem too big for Him.
God is so good that He has provided Scriptures for every situation we face. When sick, we can pray healing Scriptures. When in need, we can pray Scriptures of provision. In grief, we can lean on Scriptures of comfort. In trouble, we can pray for direction and peace. He has given us His Word because His Word is enough. When we pray it back to Him, it carries His authority to bring about what we ask according to His will.
Sometimes, as I pray, it feels as though God Himself is praying through me, giving me the words. I remember once, while riding the subway in New York City, I noticed a woman standing on the platform who looked completely broken. Quietly, I whispered a prayer for her. Later, I asked God, “Why did You let me see her?” He responded, “Because I knew you would pray. She cannot pray for herself, but when you pray, it gives Me the authority to move and bring healing to her.”
Jesus has already done the work. Our role is simply to speak His Word in faith, knowing it will never return void. When we pray in agreement with His will, He hears—and He answers. This is our confidence.
Key Takeaways
We are not called to redo what Jesus has already finished.
He has given us everything we need.
Pause, receive His gift, and rest—the work has been completed.
Affirmations: Matthew 10:20; Luke 24:32; Ephesians 6:19; Isaiah 55:11
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