Sabbath Devotional :: Mighty Prayer

mighty prayer - Mormon Women for Ethical Government — Photograph by Jenny Rogers Moody

A group of disciples had stopped on the side of a road. The work of teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ was just beginning. There was so much to do, an abundance of knowledge to gain, and many many miles to go before their journeys would end. Their work would span throughout their mortal life and carry on through the eternities.

Gathered in a circle, these faithful disciples united in prayer. The scriptures tell us it was a “mighty prayer” (3 Nephi 27:1). Their prayers were full of humility and sincerity of heart (D&C 5:24). Their faithful offering, individually and collectively, brought our Savior, Jesus Christ, before them asking them, “What will ye that I shall give unto you?” (3 Nephi 27:2).

We live in unique and challenging times. I have found that my prayers are changing. It is hard to pray for the safety of my own family without pleading for my brothers and sisters around the globe. There is a deeper connection at the realization that we are all in this together, bound together as we seek a way out of the physical, mental, and economic peril that threatens to drag us down into despair and hopelessness. We need each other like we never have before. Our connection as sons and daughters of heavenly parents runs deep and sure. I often find myself praying over the names of individuals I do not know and will probably never meet until the joyous reunions that will take place in heaven. What tender meetings they will be as we hug the necks of those we are spiritually connected to through prayer!

President M. Russell Ballard recently shared this thought: “It is time again to unite to pray for our countries, for our leaders, for our people, and for our families. Good women and good men, united in prayer and faith-filled effort, can change the history of the world.”

The sons of Mosiah witnessed so many miracles throughout their ministry. They humbly served a people who at one time had been labeled an “enemy.” Witnessing and feeling the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in their own life, the sons of Mosiah knew, with tender intimacy, the power of mighty prayer. It had brought about change in their lives, and they knew of the miracles and goodness it would have upon the Lamanite people. These faithful Lamanite people allowed the principle of prayer to sink deep into their hearts, and their devotion and faith would carry on through generations and save thousands of lives.

Our prayers matter today. We have political “enemies” and others that baffle and try our patience. Yet, as no other time before, they need our prayers. They need us, collectively and individually, praying for them by name. We cannot carry on the work of lifting others, righting wrongs, and balancing government without soft hearts and open minds. Our mighty prayers in our closets, beside our beds, and upon our every breath are the catalysts for change and healing. Our prayers are a source of knowledge and wisdom beyond our own limited mortal view. Our mighty prayers will bring about miracles, even the voice of our Savior asking, “What will ye that I shall give unto you?” At that tender question, I feel that we might respond as the Nephites did as they overcame the Gadianton robbers: “[T]heir hearts were swollen with joy, unto the gushing out of many tears, because of the great goodness of God in delivering them out of the hands of their enemies” (3 Nephi 4:33).

As we pray for others, let us not forget that our Savior is praying for each of us, teaching us the importance of prayer and the power that is within our reach as we pray for one another: “But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren [sisters]” (Luke 22:32).