Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference?

I've really enjoyed this book and my college class has benefitted from it as well. I highly reccomend it.

Good or bad, I'm probably biased because Philip and I were in school together. However, this book, like the many books Philip has written before, explores an aspect of belief normally left untouched or unanswered. Philip writes as most people think and expresses those thoughts carefully and logically. He does not give you answers but rather makes you realize the answers for yourself. If you want a practical guide to the meaning and effect of prayer explored through Philip's eyes and those of others he uses as reference, this is the book you should read.

I am a person who has greatly benefited from prayer after major injuries from an accident. Each day I live in the balance of acknowledging the miracles God did through the many prayers of my family and friends, yet living with the limitations/pain my injuries continue to force on me. I found this book to be nicely balanced between those two. There will always be mysteries we don't have answers to, but that shouldn't stop us from asking and expecting the best from God. He wants an authentic relationship with us (think of some of the discussions recorded between Him and Abraham/Moses/David) so our prayers also need to be dialog with Him as we wrestle with the mysteries. Yancey has a great way with words in finding that balance and encouraging the reader to keep on talking to God.

Imagine sitting with David, before he became king of Israel, and hearing his laments and frustrations with God which eventually circled back to an attitude of praise. You might hear some of the same questions and observations in this book. I've always admired Yancey's willingness to wrestle with the tough issues, to share from his own weaknesses, and to engage his brain while also relying on faith. His latest book embraces these same qualities, presenting a theological yet practical look at prayer's place in the lives of Christians. So, does prayer make a difference? That's the central question of the book, and it points poignantly at a relationship with the living God. It does not, however, sugarcoat the harsh realities: those who die despite numerous prayers of faith; those who prosper while living sinful lives; the seeming distance of God when we yearn for his nearness. Throughout the book, sidebars give insight into the joys and turmoils of believers from around the world. These add a nice touch of humanity to the narrative, a reminder that the issue of prayer is not merely an ethereal one, but one that affects each of us to our core. Some never receive the easy answers they hope for, while others rarely pray and find wide paths of apparent blessing. Yancey deals with questions of sickness, prosperity, spiritual destitution, sin, and the ultimate desire to know God and to be known. One particular thought hit home: Why is that God doesn't do the things we want him to, and why is that we don't do the things he wants us to? If you're looking for an easy, 1-2-3 step book on abundant living through prayer, look elsewhere. If you want everything to fit into a nice, tidy box, this isn't the book for you. If, however, you are earnest in your desire to bring your honest fears and doubts before the Lord, to think through the answers of Scripture, to know that you are not alone, than Phillip Yancey's latest book is sure to be a breath of fresh air. This is a book rich in ideas and biblical truth, yet accessible to the average reader. Indeed, it can--and probably will--make a difference in many lives.

"The reason why we pray is simply that we cannot help praying" says William James. This is a well thought out book by a famous and loved author. It is not, however, an easy quick read. If you really have time to contemplate why praying matters, prepare yourself by praying for some insights, use a highlighter because there are some wonderful prayers, quotes, and useful information for further study, and read one part at a sitting. It is a very long book and could have benefited from more editing, (especially one tidbit that doesn't belong in a book such as this in "adjusting expectations). A serious undertaking, it is apparent to the reader that the author is examining many unresolved questions regarding his own prayer life. He makes some excellent points. He believes in prayer. There are five parts to the book. Keeping Company With God, Unraveling the Mysteries, The Language of Prayer, Prayer Dilemmas, and the best part in my opinion, The Practice of Prayer. Helpful information as to resources and credits are in the back of the book. Chapter 13 is exceptionally helpful (Prayer Grammar). The personal stories throughout the book shadowed in gray was a nice addition. There could have been more of them. There must be many people like me who have never had a question as to the wisdom of praying anywhere, anytime, to almighty God - praising Him for His goodness and greatness, and humbly asking for some help, knowing we'll understand it all - one day. Don't make prayer complicated. Don't doubt. Keep the faith.