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In today’s show, I’m sharing…
- what it means to pray with expectancy
- how to cultivate an expectant heart
- 3 common myths about praying with expectancy
- how you can learn to pray with hope and confidence
Learning to pray with an expectant heart is a game-changer, so this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
And if you’re watching in real-time, be sure to stick around until the end because I’ve got an exciting, and timely, announcement for you!
What Does it Mean to Pray with an Expectant Heart
So what exactly does it mean to pray with expectancy? Is it just another checkbox in your spiritual to-do list?
Not at all.
It’s a mindset and approach that helps you go beyond the surface. It’s about anticipating and trusting that God isn’t only listening, but actively involved in your life.
This isn’t a one-size-fits-all prayer. It’s a genuine belief that God will respond according to His will.
An Obstacle to Cultivating an Expectant Heart
Before I go any further, I want to address a question you likely have. “Yeah but Tammy, I don’t know how to trust God that deeply.”
If you’re nodding your head, thinking, “Yes! That’s exactly what I was thinking,” then here’s what I need you to understand.
You probably won’t trust God completely just yet. It takes time. And in today’s show, I’m going to tell you what you need to do to build up that trust.
But suffice it to say, when you pray with expectancy, it’s like opening the door to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. It’s like saying, “I know You’re in control, and I trust Your plan.”
However, it takes time to develop that trust.
This level of reliance on God’s faithfulness is a key ingredient for spiritual growth. It transforms your faith from a passive acceptance to an active, and deper connection with our Father.
But again, it takes time and persistence.
The Power of Faith with an Expectant Heart
Now, let’s talk about faith—the secret sauce in praying with expectancy.
It’s not about surface-level prayers or praying small; it’s about diving deep into the waters of faith.
Mark 11:24 reminds us,
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” NIV
Faith is a game-changer.
It’s…
- the force that moves mountains and makes prayers effective.
- not about scheming or trying to manipulate God to get what you want.
- about showing up with a teachable heart, allowing Him to align your desires with His will, and trusting that He knows what’s best for you.
An Expectant Heart Shows We Trust in Our Father’s Promises
Trusting in God’s promises is like adding fuel to the fire of your faith. It’s not a fleeting feeling; it’s a deliberate choice. And it’s a choice you’ll need to make every single day.
When you pray with expectancy, you’re saying, “I trust Your promises, Lord.”
Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us,
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” NIV
Since we know that our Father’s plans for us don’t include disaster, but to give us a good future, then we can be assured, that nothing will destroy us.
Now here me clearly. This doesn’t mean that we’ll never go through hard times. But it does mean that God will be with us through it all.
And trusting God becomes easier as you consistently choose to pray with an expectant heart.
It’s a choice that strengthens your faith, knowing that God’s plans are for good. And when you choose to be persistent in your prayers, trusting Him soon becomes second nature, woven into the activities throughout your day.
3 Common Misconceptions About Having an Expectant Heart
Let’s debunk some unrealistic expectations most women have about praying with an expectant heart.
Expecting Immediate Results
Praying with expectancy doesn’t mean instant gratification. (If only!)
God’s timing is perfect, and His plan might unfold differently than we expect. Trust His wisdom and be open to answers that may come in unexpected ways.
Equating Expectancy with a Specific Outcome
Praying with an expectant heart isn’t about demanding a particular result.
True expectancy aligns your heart with God’s will, recognizing that His plan may differ from yours. Anticipate His response while remaining open to His ways.
Viewing an Expectant Heart as a Formula for an Easy Life
Expectant prayer is powerful, but it’s not a magic formula for guaranteed success or a life free of challenges.
It’s about trusting God in all circumstances, even when answers involve personal growth, resilience, or navigating trials and challenges.
How to Cultivate an Expectant Heart Video
You, my friend, can expect great things in your life, and learning how to cultivate an expectant heart is the catalyst for the change you’re seeking.
But you’ve got to show up with confidence, knowing that, as long as you’re asking in a way that honors God, you’ll get what you desire.
It’s about deepening your relationship with God, fueling your prayers with faith, and trusting in His promises.
So grab those earbuds and your favorite beverage and join me for today’s show: How to Cultivate an Expectant Heart.
- 00:00 Introduction
- 02:30 What it means to pray bigger
- 04:48 What does it mean to pray with an expectant heart
- 19:50 3 Common misconceptions about having an expectant heart
- 33:49 How to show up with God this week
- 35:16 Wrapping Up
[Check out everything mentioned in the show here.]
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