Let me say something bold. Hear me out, and then I’ll explain.
To not believe in the effectiveness of prayer is to say that God is a liar.
Woah, hold on. Who wants to call God a liar? Not me! And I’m sure you don’t want to do that either.
However, the Bible—which is God’s Word—consistently instructs us about both the importance and effectiveness of prayer.
In James 5:16, Jesus’ half-brother says: “The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” He also tells his readers: “You do not have, because you do not ask” (James 4:2). In Psalm 145:18, David writes: “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Further, Paul says to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17), and Jesus himself gives an extended teaching about prayer in Matthew 6:5-15. He also tells us to offer up prayers to God in his own name (John 14:14).
On top of all of this, let’s add into the mix the fact that God doesn’t lie. He “never lies” (Titus 1:2). In fact, it is “impossible” for him to do so (Hebrews 6:18).
That’s why I said what I said: To not believe in the effectiveness of prayer is to say that God is a liar.
Keep in mind that this statement is not something I would use as a hammer on a new Christian, or on someone who was simply curious about the faith. It’s something we need to humbly learn and apply over time.
The reason I say it is because followers of Jesus need the reminder, continually. Why? Because the world tries to deceive and discourage us every single day. ‘Why bother! What difference does it make?’
But who are we going to listen to—the word of the world, or the Word of God?
Prayer can be challenging, especially when we don’t see things progressing as we’d like. But keep at it. God’s word is true. He does not lie. And he invites his people to commune with him and to live their lives through prayers that come into his very presence at the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16).
Be not discouraged, and be not deflated. “The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”
Notes:
–Podcast episode: “Your Throne Does Not Tremble—a prayer.” Click here, or find it on ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan’ through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.
-The Up Devotional is published 5 days a week (Monday-Friday) and returns on October 5, 2026.
-Bible quotes, ESV.
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