Praying for Rain: Preparing for God's Provision

by Raymund Tamayo

Prayer is one of the most powerful things God has given us. Through it, we communicate with Him, express our needs, and seek His guidance.

However, prayer is not just about asking — it’s also about preparing ourselves to receive what we ask for. 

The story of the two farmers cited in the movie Facing the Giants beautifully illustrates this truth. Both prayed for rain, but only one prepared his fields to receive it. 

Which one demonstrated true faith? Clearly, the farmer who acted in anticipation of God’s provision.

Preparing for God's Provision

This principle is deeply rooted in Scripture. James 2:26 reminds us, “Faith without works is dead.” True faith requires action. 

When we pray and trust God to answer, we should also prepare ourselves to receive His blessings. Let’s explore how we can apply this principle in our lives.

1. Trusting God’s Promise

In Hebrews 11:1, we read that “faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Faith means believing God will answer our prayers even when we cannot see the outcome. 

The farmer who prepared his fields for rain exemplified this kind of faith. He trusted that God would send the rain and acted accordingly.

When you pray, ask yourself: Am I preparing for the answer I hope to receive? 

For instance, if you’re praying for a new job, are you updating your resume, applying for positions, and improving your skills? 

If you’re praying for a restored relationship, are you making efforts to reconcile and forgive? 

Trusting God’s promise involves stepping out in faith and doing your part.

2. Obedience and Readiness

In Luke 12:35-36, Jesus tells His followers, “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return.” This parable reminds us to stay prepared for God’s timing. 

When we pray, we must align our actions with His will, demonstrating our readiness to receive His blessings.

Preparation also involves spiritual readiness. Are you cultivating a heart of gratitude and obedience? Are you seeking God’s guidance through His Word? 

Preparing for God’s answer is as much about internal transformation as it is about external action.

3. Faith That Pleases God

Hebrews 11:6 says, “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” 

God is pleased when we demonstrate faith by preparing for His blessings. It shows that we trust in His power, timing, and goodness.

Like the farmer who prepared his fields for rain, we honor God by acting in faith. 

This doesn’t mean we force an outcome or manipulate circumstances; rather, we demonstrate our trust in Him by doing what we can while waiting on His provision.

Final words

When you pray, don’t just ask and wait passively. Prepare yourself to receive God’s “yes.” 

Act in faith, trusting He hears you and will answer according to His perfect will. 

Like the wise farmer, prepare your fields for rain, believing that God will send it in due time. 

This kind of faith not only pleases God but also positions you to receive His abundant blessings.