“And it came to pass that when Jesus had thus prayed unto the Father, he came unto his disciples, and behold, they did still continue, without ceasing, to pray unto him; and they did not multiply many words, for it was given unto them what they should pray, and they were filled with desire.” – 3 Nephi 19:24
As I reflect on this passage from 3rd Nephi, I find myself drawn into the sacred moment between the Saviour and His disciples. After Christ’s powerful prayer to the Father, He returns to find His disciples in prayer. What strikes me is the simplicity and depth of their prayers. They “did not multiply many words, for it was given unto them what they should pray, and they were filled with desire.” This scene offers a significant lesson on the true nature of prayer. Effective prayer is not only about expressing our thoughts or desires to God, but rather a sacred partnership with Him. The disciples’ prayers were guided by the Spirit—”it was given unto them what they should pray.” This tells us that our prayers should not be limited by what we think we need, but rather that we must allow the Holy Ghost to guide us in asking for what God knows is best. The Spirit, as promised, plays a pivotal role in this divine communication, helping us make sure our will is with that of Heavenly Father’s.
I’m reminded of a verse in Paul’s epistle to the Romans where he wrote: “the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us.” (Romans 8:26) I realise that often, I do not know what to pray for as I should. Yet, if I allow the Spirit to work within me, my prayers become something more than mere requests—they become an expression of my soul’s deepest yearnings, aligned with God’s will and purposes.
One phrase from this verse stands out to me. The disciples were “filled with desire.” Their prayers were not empty words. Their words came from a place of deep yearning. True prayer is not just about the words we say, but the desires that fill our heart. It is this longing for connection with God, for His will to be done, that transforms our prayers into something sacred and powerful.
Sometimes I wonder if my own prayers are effective—if I’m saying the right things or asking for the right blessings. However, this passages reassures me that it is not about how many words I use. The Lord is not concerned with eloquence or length; He cares about the sincerity of my heart. When I come to Him earnestly, even if my words are few, the Spirit will guide me in knowing what to pray for, just as it did with Christ’s disciples. I also take comfort in knowing that as I continue in prayer, as the disciples did “without ceasing,” I can receive the same enlightenment they experienced. Their persistence in prayer led to their hearts being filled with divine desire, and I have come to believe that this kind of persistence in my own life can lead to a deeper communion with Heavenly Father. Prayer is not a fleeting moment, but an ongoing relationship with my Heavenly Father, one that deepens as I return to Him again and again.
What does it mean to be “filled with desire” in our prayers today? For me, it means more than simply asking for things I want. It is a heartfelt yearning for God’s presence, a deep desire to make sure my life is in accord with His will. When my desires match His, I believe that my prayers will become more powerful and effective. I will feel the peace and direction that only He can provide. Prayer is more than a recitation of needs or hopes. It is an opportunity to invite the Spirit into my heart, to allow God to guide my thoughts and desires. The simplicity of the disciples’ prayers inspires me to approach my own with greater humility, allowing the Spirit to shape my words and fill my heart with a desire for Heavenly Father’s will to be done.
As I strive to make my prayers more earnest and Spirit-led, I trust that I, too, can experience the peace and divine guidance the disciples felt. I want my prayers to be filled with the same purity of heart and persistence, knowing that the Lord hears me and understands my deepest desires, even those I struggle to express. I am learning to trust in His wisdom and timing, knowing that as I walk according to His will, my prayers will be heard and answered in the way that is best for my eternal good.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.
