Understanding Prayer - by Sam Storms (Paperback)

About the Book

Understanding Prayer by Sam Storms delves into the transformative power of prayer, challenging misguided theological concepts and guiding believers toward a more fulfilling spiritual life.

Book Synopsis

A Comprehensive Theological Guide to the Practice and Power of Prayer

In Understanding Prayer, author, pastor, and scholar Sam Storms unpacks the meaning and power of prayer through a close reading of Scripture with special focus on the life and ministry of Jesus, the apostle Paul, and James. With scholarly wisdom and pastoral application, he addresses topics like persisting in prayer, praying for pleasure, and warfare prayer, exploring how prayer is a profoundly supernatural experience. He also addresses several controversial texts and challenging questions about prayer including:

• Does prayer really change anything?
• Why praying in Jesus's name is not a magical incantation
• The most shocking prayer the apostle Paul never prayed
• How we can ask God for wisdom to make sense of the seemingly senseless
• Suffering, healing, and the prayer of faith
• How prayer brings us peace and imparts spiritual wisdom

Understanding Prayer is an indispensable resource, serving as both a comprehensive analysis and a practical guide for those seeking God through prayer. It offers a journey into the heart of prayer, transforming it from a mere ritual to a deeply personal spiritual experience that develops and grows our knowledge, understanding, and hunger for God.

Review Quotes

'Few people have taught more about seeking God in prayer than Sam Storms, in the difference between praying with God and not just to him. I'm not sure whether his books stand out more for their biblical and theological rigor or their devotional passion! Either way, Sam has had a huge impact on both my walk with the Lord and my ministry. Understanding Prayer is no exception. I felt my faith igniting again as I read it. Chapter 6 on praying with Paul for the lost wrecked me! There is no shortage of books on prayer, but this one is special.'--J.D. Greear, PhD, pastor, The Summit Church, Raleigh-Durham, NC

'In Understanding Prayer, readers will benefit not only from Sam's theological insight but also from his experience as a lifelong friend of God. Sam takes us through every prayer in the New Testament, teaching us how to pray like Jesus and the apostles. You'll be inspired by their examples, as well as by the stories of prayer warriors and mystics throughout church history. If you're looking to deepen both your understanding and passion for prayer, this book is a must-read!'--Michael Rowntree, lead pastor, Convergence Church OKC

'Sam Storms has written an excellent book on prayer. One of the things that sets this book apart is that it is not theoretical. Sam is a man of prayer. He has learned so much about prayer not only through his study of the Scriptures but through spending many hours in prayer. I think this book has the potential to improve the prayer life of many people. It is a privilege to recommend it.'--Dr. Jack Deere, author, Why I'm Still Surprised by the Power of the Spirit

'Sam Storms is one of God's best gifts to the church today. In Sam we find superb exegesis and compelling communication. All in the person of a godly, Christlike man. When such a man tackles a subject as profound--and elusive--as prayer, then this is a book not to miss.'--Jeff Wells, senior pastor and elder, WoodsEdge Community Church