"Father, I knew that you always hear Me." These are the words of Jesus’ prayer when He raised Lazarus from the grave. They are words that we must remember about prayer and be certain that He always hears us. Pray God’s Word back to Him and let the Holy Spirit guide your words. Prayer to many Christians today comes only during times of trial and difficulties. Prayer should become almost like breathing- as a part of our very life and being every minute. Corrie Ten Boom asked, “Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?” Jesus prayed with total confidence when He commanded Lazarus to come out of the grave. He knew that God the Father always heard His prayers and answered according to His will.

Leaders must have this same obedience and confidence: that God hears our prayer and wants the answer He gives us to be our steering wheel. We can always know for certain that He answers the right way according to His will and purpose. I just bought my wife a new car and am totally amazed at all the electronic controls on the steering wheel. It’s like turning the steering wheel loose and holding on while the car drives itself. All of the important driving features for the whole car are right there on the steering wheel. It is a communication center that interfaces with the driver and the car. There was once a popular saying, “God is my co-pilot”. While that is a catchy statement, it is NOT spiritually or biblically sound. God should be our pilot, not co-pilot. When I was carefully evaluating all the features of my wife’s new car, I asked the sales person to show me the spare tire. I wanted to see where it was located and if it was a full-size tire in the event that we needed it. Prayer can be our spare tire along with the steering wheel when we have a flat and need help. Just make sure that you keep it inflated and know how to change it. The bottom line is that it is much better to let the steering wheel of prayer control us so that we don’t need to use the spare tire too often.