Praying for One and the Law of Probabilities

“Probability” is the word we use to determine the likelihood an event will occur. Most of us engage in probabilities at least once a day when we hear our local weather forecast.  A 20% chance of rain is a statement of probability.

I have met believers who prefer the words “probability” and “opportunity” over the word “chance.” They argue there is no such thing as chance since nothing happens unless God wills it to happen or chooses to let it happen.  For this reason many churches prefer the term “pitch-in” over “pot-luck” when they advertise fellowship meals.

Whatever we call it, there is no doubt we can calculate the probability of an outcome. Naturally, we recognize God could intervene at any time and render our projections irrelevant.

However, there is one probability that comes with a biblical validation. If the Lord’s people don’t share the message of salvation, no one will be saved.  I feel certain there are some who will disagree with this statement.  After all, God can deliver salvation to anyone at any time, without our help.  I agree He can.  What I am suggesting is He has chosen to do the work through us instead.  Even in the case of Jesus’ supernatural intervention in the life of Saul, a disciple named Ananias was called upon to finish the conversation process (Acts 22:12-16).

Are you still waiting for the biblical validation? I present for your consideration Romans 10:13-15: ‘“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”’

A fisherman can’t catch fish with a rod and reel unless his line is in the water. A farmer can’t raise a grain crop unless he plants a seed.  The probability of a fish being attracted to bait that isn’t in the water is 0%.  The probability of waves of grain springing out of the ground without a seed is the same.

This means if we pray for God to show us our “one”, we need to make an effort to connect with our “one.” When we put ourselves in new places with new people we increase the probability of finding our “one”.  If we intentionally engage more people in conversation we increase the probability God will show us our “one”.

I can’t guarantee the outcome for everyone who prays for “one”. God works in various ways at different times in divinely appointed places.  But I can guarantee the outcome for those who pray but do nothing.  Without a line in the water or a seed in the ground the probability of finding their one is 0%.  “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard.”

I recognize there are different ways of hearing and I don’t doubt souls have been won through a message delivered through television, radio, Internet or the printed page. Yet, even in these cases, someone had to make the personal investment to make sure others knew about Jesus.

If you are praying for your “one”, be encouraged. God will show you your “one” if you pay attention to the places He puts you and the people He puts you with.  If you stay alert there is a good chance you will see God work.

Um. I mean a good “probability” you will see God work.  Either way, the percentages go up and the Kingdom grows.