Where do we go wrong?

on Nov 7, 2025

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I am ashamed to confess that, though I’ve been a Christian since I was a kid, the only prayers I pray are when I get myself in trouble and shout, “God, help me!” I’m not alone in this and am beginning to learn that prayer is much more serious and joyous than my feeble approach. Where do we go wrong? – F.P.

A: When people come into a new relationship with Christ and are transformed, they are often referred to as “babes in Christ.” They are nourished on the milk of the Word. “As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby” (1 Peter 2:2, NKJV).

The Lord is not disappointed by our prayers but delights when we come to Him. His own disciples said, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1, NKJV).

Many new believers fail to pray because they put too much emphasis on a lack of eloquence. God wants to hear our humble prayers, to share with Him what is on our hearts. He already knows, but it pleases Him when we care enough to cease our busyness and read His Word with prayerful and expectant hearts. No child, when learning to speak, does so in complete sentences or can be held at attention in lengthy conversation. Parents are delighted by a child’s first attempts to speak, and God’s Spirit will also help us in our desire to speak to Him.

If prayer feels uncomfortable, open God’s Word and read about Him. This is how we learn and grow in Christ, and it informs our prayers as we begin by thanking God for all He has done, praising Him for His love and goodness.

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14, NKJV). Spending time in this way helps us to mature in our faith.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)