Your Prayer Affects God

In Genesis 18, we find Abraham in a conversation with God. God wonders aloud: “Should I hide my plan from Abraham?” (v. 17). That’s incredible. The God of the universe pauses to consider Abraham in his decision-making.

Theologians debate how much prayer changes God versus how much it changes us. But one thing is clear: prayer matters. God invites us into his plans. He listens. He responds. He makes room for us within his sovereignty.

We see this even in verse 21 when God says, “I’m going down to see the sin of Sodom and Gomorrah for myself.” Why would an all-knowing God need to go down to investigate? He doesn’t. But his decision to do so tells us something: God is present. He is personal. He is involved.

You Are Allowed to Get Up in God’s Face

Abraham does something most of us would never dare to do in prayer—he pushes back. “You’re planning to do what? That doesn’t sound like you!” (v. 23).

Abraham isn’t being disrespectful. He’s being bold. He knows that the lives of people are at stake. He prays like he cares—because he does.

Most people don’t pray like they care. They mumble a few polite words, then move on. But Abraham keeps pushing: “Will you spare the city for 50 righteous people? What about 45? 40? 30? 20? What about 10?”

And God listens.

A Promise Kept

The most surprising part? Abraham prays fervently… and Sodom still burns. Was his prayer wasted? No. Genesis 19:29 tells us that “God remembered Abraham.” His prayer didn’t go unheard. It mattered.

Sometimes, the outcome isn’t what we expect, but that doesn’t mean God wasn’t listening. Prayer is not about gettingwhat we want—it’s about knowing the God who is always present, always sovereign, and always at work.

Do You Pray Like It Matters?

James 5:16-17 reminds us that Elijah was just as human as we are, yet his prayers moved the hand of God. That means passionate, bold prayers aren’t reserved for spiritual giants. They are for anyone who dares to believe.

So let me ask you: When was the last time you prayed like it mattered? Like something was at stake? Like God was actually listening?

Maybe it’s time to pray like Abraham.

By Pastor Tim