Day 352: Jonah 1-4; Revelation 8

"Prayer reaches up to heaven and brings heaven down to earth" (E.M. Bounds).

Did you ever wonder about the power of prayer? Today's readings confirm the gift of power that God has offered to the world He so loves. Jonah prayed: "I called out to the LORD in my distress and He answered me" (Jonah 2:2). The king of Nineveh ordered his citizens to take action in repentance and pray, and he led the way...yes, the word 'prayer' does not appear, but the humble actions of the Ninevites is clearly prayer, for God hears, forgives, and stays His judgment (Jonah 3:10). Revelation 8:3-5 relates the actions of God and His messenger-angels, the ones who blow the trumpets, directly to the prayers of the saints (see 6:10-11). No doubt E.M. Bounds is correct, there is power through prayer. Let us take advantage of the mighty gift God has given us and by His grace in cooperation with our prayers, let's move mountains.