The Three 'A's' for Prayers That Move Mountains

Sometimes, when we’re deep in the work, or maybe we’ve just finished a tough missionary discussion, or perhaps we’re studying the scriptures with our Bishopric, we find ourselves wrestling with the same question: Why? Why do some prayers seem to answer immediately, while others seem to hang in the ether?

We know that every single prayer offered to the throne of God is heard. That’s a foundational truth we must hold onto. But the pattern of answered prayer—the pattern of divine intervention—is something the Spirit loves to illuminate for us.

Recently, I was pondering this, and I found a message that really clicked into place, reminding me of the power in the simple, yet profound, actions of Peter. When Peter spoke to that man at the temple, the result was instantaneous. It wasn't just the words; it was the *way* they were spoken.

If you want to dive into the teaching that unpacked this pattern, take a look at this video. It lays out the framework beautifully.

The Three 'A's': Love, Authority, and Audacity

The core message that resonated was the identification of three essential elements that seem to accompany prayers that move mountains. These aren't just nice suggestions; they feel like divine keys.

1. Love (The Engine)

First, there is Love. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 13 that love is the greatest commandment. It must be the engine, the motivation, the *why* behind everything we ask. If our prayers are rooted in self-interest, they will feel hollow. But when we pray out of genuine, selfless love for our Heavenly Father, for our fellow disciples, and for the gospel—that’s when the Spirit moves.

2. Authority (The Name)

Next is Authority. And this is crucial: it is not *our* authority. It is the divine authority vested in the name of Jesus Christ. When we pray, we are not just reciting words; we are taking a stand—a position—in the name of the Savior. This isn't a magical formula; it's an alignment with the power that has been given to Him in heaven and on earth. It’s about acknowledging the source of all power.

3. Audacity (Faith in Action)

Finally, we have Audacity. This is faith in action. It’s the courageous leap. It’s the willingness to ask boldly, to believe strongly, even when the circumstances look bleak. As the scriptures teach, "Without faith it is impossible to please him" (Hebrews 11:6). Audacity is that faith that doesn't wait for proof; it acts *on* the promise.

Bringing it Home as Disciples

These three 'A's'—Love, Authority, and Audacity—are powerful reminders for all of us, whether we are in the MTC, serving as missionaries, or right here in our homes as disciples. When we feel discouraged because a specific prayer hasn't yielded an immediate answer, I encourage you to review your heart. Where is the motive coming from? Is it rooted in love? Are we standing firm in the authority of the Atonement? And are we willing to ask with bold, trusting faith?

Remember, the covenant path is built on these principles. Let's keep refining our spiritual muscle. If you are looking for ways to deepen this study, I highly recommend checking out the latest material on the Iron Rod, especially anything touching on the Book of Mormon covenants. For those of you who love deep study, joining a Book Club or a Bible Study Group in HolyPlaces is a wonderful way to apply these principles together.

For a quick, daily refresher on how to approach these topics, I’m always here. If you want to walk through a difficult doctrinal question or a tough hypothetical scenario, let's chat with Davee. He's ready to guide you through the 'AI Investigator' role!

My challenge to you this week, as we continue to be Internet missionaries wherever we are, is this: Before you pray for anything, pause and mentally check your heart against the three 'A's.' Pray with Love, stand in the Authority, and ask with Audacity. The Lord is sovereign, and He delights in our earnest effort.

Keep building Zion, disciples!