A story is told about a region in Africa where an entire village had come to embrace Christ. As they began studying the Word of God, they soon realized that it was their scriptural duty to go and share this message with the villages around them. So they sent many out and assigned others to pray for them in solitude, each building his or her own individual prayer room.

Now these prayer warriors used their own private footpaths to reach their prayer rooms, and it soon became clear that if the prayer rooms weren’t being utilized often enough, grass would begin to grow back on the beaten path that led to the little shacks. And whenever a few of them would notice grass on another’s path, they would lovingly walk up and tell the other, “Friend, there’s grass on your path.”

As I talk with Christians today, it’s clear that so many have prayer paths that are completely overgrown. And one of the biggest reasons believers lack a fervent prayer life is that they have never truly experienced the power that prayer can have. But as we take a look at King Jehoshaphat’s prayer in 2 Chronicles 20 , we learn three very important keys to unlocking the power of fervent prayer.

Key 1: Pray reverently.
(Jehoshaphat) said, “O LORD, the God of our fathers… Power and might are in Your hand so that no one can stand against You.” (2 Chronicles 20:6 )

Prayer should never be taken out of the context of reverent worship. Recognize God’s greatness first and foremost and begin every prayer by communicating to Him, as well as to yourself, that you acknowledge His goodness and power. This is critical.

Key 2: Pray scripturally.
“Did You not, O our God, drive out the inhabitants of this land before Your people Israel, and give it to the descendants of Abraham Your friend forever?” (2 Chronicles 20:7 ) As you pray, recall Scripture to mind and pray it. God will always come through on His promises and properly using His promises in your prayers aligns your purposes with His and reinforces your trust in His Word.

Key 3: Pray honestly.
“(W)e are powerless before this great multitude who are coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” (2 Chronicles 20:12 )

God knows exactly what is on your heart, so don’t hold back. He wants you to tell Him about your frustrations and worries, and He is faithful to work everything out for your best. So don’t be afraid to let Him know what’s going on.

These three keys will build a foundation for you to rediscover the power that prayer can have in your life. So instead of letting your prayer life grow cold, unlock the power of prayer and watch what God will do when your prayer path is well-trodden!

Pastor Jeff Schreve