Most have heard preachers speak of the importance of staying on “praying ground.” But what does that mean? What is praying ground? To be on praying ground is to be right with God. It calls for confession of all sin and a total dedication of life to Christ. The whole concept of “praying ground” is built on the teaching that one is more likely to have prayers answered if he is living in the will of God. And there is Bible basis for this conclusion: “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me” (Psalm 66:18-20).

At the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the Lord assured the king that his prayer of dedication was heard. He foresaw, however, that in the future Solomon’s people would backslide and so gave instruction for their return to praying ground. They were to humble themselves, turn from their wicked ways and seek His face. Prayer accompanied by that kind of repentance was guaranteed to bring healing to the land.

America is far from God. How shall we return to praying ground? By humility. And where should it start? By turning from our wicked ways. And who will make the first move toward righteousness by seeking God’s face? And who will seek God above all else?

I conclude it’s my move. How about you?