This is a guest post from Steven Kendrick, co-founder of Kendrick Brothers, producer of the hit films War Room, Courageous, Fireproof, and Facing the Giants. In episode 2 of the BoldIdea podcast, Stephen talked about incubating ideas in prayer. The following is an excerpt from his book with Alex Kendrick, The Battle Plan for Prayer (2015, B&H Publishing Group. Used with permission).
Prayer can accomplish what a willing God can accomplish. It is a beautiful, mysterious, and awe-inspiring gift. There is no greater privilege for anyone than being able to personally talk with and speak into the ears of Almighty God. There’s not an issue we’re facing that prayer cannot address because nothing is too difficult or impossible for God to handle. And there is no greater legacy we could embrace or leave behind us than one of faithfulness in prayer.
It should not surprise us, then, to discover that the greatest and most spiritually successful men and women in the Bible were always people of prayer. Abraham walked by faith but was guided by prayer, and the nations of the world have never been the same because of it. Isaac’s intercession on behalf of his barren wife resulted in the birth of Jacob, who became the father of the nation of Israel (Gen. 25:21). Moses spoke with God “as a man speaks to his friend,” receiving God’s guidance and revelation for his leadership decisions (Exod. 33:11). The world still has the Torah and the Ten Commandments as fruit of it.
David talked to God “morning, noon, and night” (Ps 55:17 HCSB) and wrote the longest book in your Bible because of it. The Psalms are filled with a plethora of passionate prayers set to song. Nehemiah’s intercessions resulted in Israel miraculously rebuilding the city walls of Jerusalem in incredible time. You can visit this city, as we have, and see a portion of Nehemiah’s wall still standing today. Daniel so cherished talking with God that he prioritized it three times a day and was willing to give up his life rather than give up his prayer time.
From Joseph to Jeremiah, Hannah to Hosea, the Scriptures are replete with people who discovered God really does listen and respond to those who approach Him in faith.
Stephen Kendrick, is a co-writer for the screenplays and books and the producer for the Kendrick Brothers’ films. Stephen has spoken to churches, conferences, and seminars around the nation, and has been interviewed by FOX and Friends, CNN, ABC World News Tonight, The Washington Post, and other media outlets. He is a co-founder and board member of the Fatherhood Commission. Stephen is the co-author of The Battle Plan for Prayer, The Love Dare, The Resolution for Men, among others.