Prayer is a universal language that all believers speak, but one believer differs from another in their grasp and proficiency of it. Jesus not only made prayer a habit, but He also taught it appreciably. His teaching on the subject is rooted in our relationship with God as Father. Harping on the tender care that naturally flows from earthly fathers to their children, Jesus proved that the Heavenly Father will be much more eager to honour our requests. He added a caveat, though. It is only when we ask in faith that the answers are sure. “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”” (Matthew 21:22 NKJV).

“Unbelief is disrespect to God’s person and ability; and this is viewed seriously…God’s power to save, heal, and bless remains intact; but until we get rid of our unbelief the blessings will pass us by.”

It is the same issue about faith that James is emphasizing in our text. We noted previously that he encouraged people to ask God for wisdom as they deem necessary. Today, he adds another dimension to his admonition. Those who would ask must do so in faith. Asking with a mind of unbelief is an exercise in futility. Unbelief is disrespect to God’s person and ability; and this is viewed seriously. When Moses struck the rock the second time instead of speaking to it, God considered that as unbelief. For that reason he could not enter the Promised Land in its fullness. The entire nation was also accused of tempting God by limiting Him. That was also a manifestation of unbelief for which many perished in the wilderness. Jesus would sometimes ask people if they believed before performing a miracle on them. God’s power to save, heal, and bless remains intact; but until we get rid of our unbelief the blessings will pass us by.