Pastor Donnell explores the question "Why Do We Pray?" through an engaging and personal approach, beginning with the intriguing observation that Jesus' disciples had to specifically ask him to teach them to pray. With characteristic warmth and humor, he introduces the concept that prayer is "appetite-driven" – not something forced upon us, but rather an invitation that awakens something deep within us as God patiently waits for us to acknowledge our need for connection.

 

Through three main themes drawn from Psalm 139, Pastor Donnell illustrates that we pray because we are fully known, because God is with us, and to be transformed. He emphasizes a particularly powerful point: not only does God love us, but God likes us just as we are. Using personal stories, including one about his grandmother Pearl who wouldn't let go of a hug until she knew her love had been fully received, Pastor Donnell paints a picture of a God who accepts us completely, even in our anxiety, fears, and imperfections.

 

The sermon culminates in exploring how prayer serves as a transformative practice, but not in the way many might expect. Rather than focusing on correct words or postures, Pastor Donnell describes transformation as something that happens when we finally let our guard down in God's presence – similar to the way we relax with someone we've learned to trust. He concludes with a practical evening prayer exercise, while humorously adding that if people don't want God to answer and reveal truths about themselves, they might want to pray instead: "God, keep me ignorant of my ways. Don't reveal any truths to me today. Just let me know you love me instead."

In this inspiring sermon, Pastor Donnell explores the transformative power of hope in the face of adversity. Drawing from Romans 12:9b-14, he emphasizes the call to be "joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer," and examines what this looks like amidst betrayal and suffering. Pastor Donnell delves into the story of Joseph, who, despite being sold into slavery by his own brothers and facing numerous injustices, remained steadfast in his hope and trust in God.

 

Pastor Donnell highlights how Joseph's unwavering hope not only sustained him but also brought blessings to those around him—even in the most challenging circumstances. He notes that Joseph's recognition of God's presence allowed him to thrive and forgive, turning what was meant for harm into good. This powerful example serves as a reminder that fear, anger, and injustice are the enemies of hope, but by keeping hope alive, we can overcome these obstacles.

 

Concluding the sermon, Pastor Donnell offers a practical tip: pause each day, especially when feeling overwhelmed, to remember God's presence, just as Joseph did. He encourages us to notice the small ways God brings life and hope into our lives, reinforcing that the same God who transformed Joseph's story is actively working in ours. By keeping hope alive, we anchor our souls and open ourselves to God's restorative work.

Pastor Donnell begins with the universal struggle of feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from God, especially when life seems to offer only exhaustion and disappointment. He reminds us that in these moments of despair, our natural responses—like fear and control—may feel necessary but ultimately leave us unfulfilled. Instead, the invitation Jesus offers is not to seek more control or avoid hardship but to embrace a new life through surrender and trust in God's Spirit.

 

Using Ezekiel’s vision of the valley of dry bones, Pastor Donnell illustrates how God brings life to what seems dead. He shares a poignant story of someone finding hope and renewal amid hardship, showing how God's Spirit works through ordinary people and unexpected grace. This new life, he explains, does not erase struggles but offers a way through them, fostering resilience, healing, and hope that even the most barren areas of our lives can be restored.

 

Concluding with practical steps, Pastor Donnell encourages the congregation to begin each day with a prayer of surrender, inviting the Holy Spirit to bring new life into their day-to-day challenges. He emphasizes that this journey is a pilgrimage toward love, trust, and a closer relationship with Jesus—a journey that transforms us and brings life to even the driest parts of our souls.