when prayer doesn't make sense

what to do when God feels silent (and why you should pray anyway)

It was my final year exam in Junior Secondary School (what you might call middle school in America) – the WAEC. We were promised answers, a guaranteed pass. It was a rumor I desperately believe. So, I didn’t study. I played. And when the exams came, I failed. Miserably. There was no hope of me going into Senior Secondary School. I sat in my room one night, the silence was heavy. The wind was still, the leaves fell softly, and my own heartbeat pounded in my ears. Worry consumed me. The thought of being a failure loomed large.

Prayer won’t fix this, How could prayer fix something so final? I told myself. It’s too late.

Then, a voice.

The street preacher, who regularly walked the neighborhood, his voice echoing in the early mornings and late nights, passed by. He said, “Pray when it doesn’t make sense. Pray when it’s hopeless. Pray anyway.”

This time, I listened.

My prayer was short and simple, “God, sort this out… and I’ll share Your word. I promise.” That’s it.

Days passed by. Nothing.

Was I a fool to hope? I wondered.

Then, a Wednesday. After midweek service, a man approached my mom: Why isn’t your son in school? I hid behind her, shame scorching my cheeks, as she explained my failure. “Bring his results,” he said.

Unbeknownst to us, he was a principal, a man with authority to bend rules. Miraculously, I was admitted to the school of my choice. Fees paid. No questions asked. What? I can’t stop thinking about that moment. I know it was God. That's one of the foundations that built my prayer life.

This experience showed me that prayer isn't always about understanding; it's about trusting. It's about connecting with a God who sees beyond our limited understanding. Just as Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

• prayer is a lifeline to God.

• Prayer reminds us that we are never alone.

• Prayer invites wisdom beyond our understanding

That’s why we pray even when it doesn’t make sense.

Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

If you’re in a place where prayer feels pointless, pray anyway. God is working even when you don’t see it. Take one situation in your life that seems hopeless and commit to God. Even if nothing seems to change, pray anyway, trust that’s done and watch what God does.

A PRAYER FOR WHEN PRAYER FEELS POINTLESS

Lord, I’m angry. Confused. Tired of whispering into the dark. But Your Word says You’re close to the brokenhearted, so here’s my short, simple ask:______.

Help me trust that You’re working, even when I see nothing. Turn my doubt into defiant hope.

In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Prayer may not always change your situation immediately, but it will always change you. When God feels silent, He’s still present. When you don’t see a way, He’s still working. Keep praying, not because you always understand, but because you trust the One who does.

I’d love to hear, how has prayer sustained you in difficult seasons? Reply and share, or just let me know how I can pray for you?

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