I know it’s not the only motivation for a healthy prayer life, but the Word of God makes this connection…
Job 15:4
“Yea, thou castest off fear, and restrainest prayer before God.”
Part of Job’s struggle was that he was losing his fear for the Lord, which consequently caused his prayer life to wane. Perhaps the trial of His faith was beginning to outgrow His revelation of God. Thankfully, though, it’s during such trial that a whole new revelation can emerge. The simple fact is this: if you fear God you will pray.
It’s one of those mysterious dichotomies, where the chords of love and fear must be joined, and where the heart’s desire for God is stirred. This holy mixture of love for God, being loved by God, and fearing Him, is where prayerful passion springs up.
Digging a little deeper we find that “restraining prayer” is more than just prayers being withheld, but is actually diminishing its power or value. The heart that fears God is filled with awestruck wonder at His mighty power and outstretched arm toward them. Remembering His greatness is reason for fear, not in dread of, but in reverence for His power; a power that finds its greatest expression in response to the prayers of His people.
Regardless of what you’re going through remember this: God is a BIG God who loves to do BIG things for His people. Don’t allow trial to cloud your fear of God, but rather allow that awareness of His greatness to propel you into His arms!
Follow this line of thought by checking out this post.