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                In the course of our spiritual growth, God will reveal Himself to us in many different ways. When we first begin to walk with Him, our prayers seem to be answered instantaneously at times and our faith is encouraged. As time goes on; however, the answers do not always happen immediately and sometimes seem to take longer and longer. (In these things, we speak generally, not specifically.)

                There are a myriad of reasons why our prayers may be delayed or seemingly "not answered". We will mention only a few here as examples, but will then move on to the real purpose of this manual.

                In Daniel 10:13, we find that spiritual influences can hinder answers to our prayers.

                In James 4:3 we are told that we may not receive answers to our prayers because of impure motivations.

                James 1:6-7 also tells us that we may not receive if we waver between genuine faith and doubt.

                And, of course, there are more. Despite all this; however, God is ever present, and is working in all these things "...for the good of those who love Him..." He is well aware of our situations and of the things with which we struggle. He has everything under control and promises us that He will never give us anything that we cannot bear in HIM. (Matthew 11:30, ICorinthians 10:13)

                There is another reason why our prayers may be delayed also. This reason is described in the title of this manual: The Point Of Desperation. At first glance, this title may be intimidating; but it is at this place we find the greatest power of God available to those who will choose to believe and not give up. God is working with each one of us to reach this place of power and perfecting.

                As we grow in our lives, we become very conscious of our needs in this world. What we eat, where we sleep, what we are going to wear, how we are going to get money, what road will make the shortest travel, who's coming to our house, what our home looks like, what are we going to do over the weekend, etc.

                Now, all these things can be (for the most part) very valid concerns. We are also told in Matthew 6:25-34 that our Father, God, is very concerned about these things as well. But we are also told to look to the kingdom of God first, and then all these things will be added as well.

                We must realize that God's plans are so far beyond our own. His interest in our long-term and eternal needs will always outweigh our short-term and worldly needs. Our eternal riches are more important than our worldly ones. Our character is more important than our possessions. Our faith is more important than our blessings. Our perseverance and steadfastness is more important than our healing. Our life with Him is more important than our life in this world.

                It is this singleness of vision that God is after in our hearts and lives. He wants to refine our motivations and our thinking so that He can bless us with His ample and generous gifts. He wants us to be able to ask Him for anything and then receive it (Matthew 7:7).