Is Pursuing Success Contrary to Biblical Prayer?
In this article, you will learn how Nehemiah 1:11 contradicts Matthew 6:7, Proverbs 3:5, James 4:13-15, Philippians 4:6 and Luke 18:13-14. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The narrative of Nehemiah in the Bible highlights a moment of earnest prayer where he seeks God's favor to aid him and his friends in their mission to honor God. Nehemiah 1:11 shows Nehemiah asking God to grant success since his role as the king's cupbearer was critical to ensuring safety, symbolizing responsibility and trust.
However, this plea for specific success appears to contrast with other biblical teachings on prayer. For example, Matthew 6:7 cautions against vain repetitions in prayer. It suggests that a simple and sincere heart, rather than constant repetition, better aligns with the spirit of prayer. This can be likened to a friend who continuously asks for the same favor, expecting a positive response based solely on persistence, rather than understanding the relational dynamics at play.
Proverbs 3:5 advises trusting in the Lord wholeheartedly rather than leaning on one's own understanding. Nehemiah's specific request might seem like he is leaning on a strategic plan, hoping that success will follow from God's intervention in his human endeavors. This is like planning a day down to the last detail while neglecting the unpredictable nature of life.
Then there's James 4:13-15, cautioning against making confident declarations about future success without acknowledging God's will. It underscores the uncertainty of life, similar to making confident travel plans without considering possible delays or changes.
Philippians 4:6 urges believers to pray about everything, suggesting a broader approach to requests—a lifestyle of prayer—rather than focusing singularly on success. It's akin to seeking well-being in all aspects of life, not merely one-dimensional aspirations.
Lastly, Luke 18:13-14 inspires humility in prayer. Nehemiah's bold request might appear in contrast, as humility often involves recognizing our limitations and the greatness of divine guidance, like a child looking to a parent for wisdom.
These varied perspectives offer a rich tapestry of understanding prayer, leaving believers to ponder the balance between asking for success and embracing diverse elements of faith-filled petitions.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Nehemiah 1:11 | O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man. For I was the king's cupbearer. |
| 2. | Matthew 6:7 | But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen [do]: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. |
| 3. | Proverbs 3:5 | Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. |
| 4. | James 4:13-15 | Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: |
| 5. | Philippians 4:6 | Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. |
| 6. | Luke 18:13-14 | And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as [his] eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. |