Prayers That Changed History: From Christopher Columbus to Helen Keller, how God Used 25 People to Change the World

by Tricia Goyer

One prayer can change everything, says bestselling author Tricia Goyer in Prayers That Changed History.



Martin Luther. Sojourner Truth. Helen Keller. St. Patrick. We read their stories, and of other people like them, in history books and hear about the amazing things they did to change the world. But one part of the story is often left out: Each one of them wouldn’t have accomplished what they did without prayer.



In Prayers That Changed History, the stories of thirty notable people are presented along with the major prayer that changed their lives, and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person’s life and actions, as well as ways you can use the power of prayer in your life as well. Because God isn’t done changing the world yet, and he would love to use you to make history.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Christian Living, Christian, Prayer, Faith, Devotional

Audio CD

First published July 21, 2015

About the author

Tricia Goyer is a busy mom of ten, grandmother of two, and wife to John. Somewhere around the hustle and bustle of family life, she manages to find the time to write fictional tales delighting and entertaining readers and non-fiction titles offering encouragement and hope. A bestselling author, Tricia has published thirty-three books to date and has written more than 500 articles. She is a two time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award Nominee. In 2010, she was selected as one of the Top 20 Moms to Follow on Twitter by SheKnows.com. Tricia is also on the blogging team at MomLifeToday.com, TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites.In addition to her roles as mom, wife and author, Tricia volunteers around her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana, and she currently leads a Teen MOPS Group in Little Rock, AR. Learn more about Tricia at www.triciagoyer.com.

Reviews

[Debbie Wentworth Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prayers that Changed History is a series of historical sketches of the prayer lives of twenty-five Christians, from Polycarp to Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Written with children in mind, it would make an excellent family devotional or a good resource for history or Bible in homeschools or Christian schools. Each chapter looks at a different life arranged in historical order. Most of the chapters begin with a short historical sketch. Goyer then includes a section from the person's words and how that person affected history. She provides a scriptural overview of someone who faced something similar in the Bible. Then she concludes with an application.

Adults can enjoy this also. I found it helpful and encouraging with my devotions. (My favorite was George Mueller whose prayers fed, clothed, and provided for 2000 orphans. His answers to prayer as reported in a biography I was reading sustained me during a traumatic period of doubt in my life.)

Highly recommended.

[Freda Mans-Labianca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cool stuff!
I pray. Mostly everyone prays, at least at one time or another. No prayer is too big or too small. God hears them all.
What I like about this book is as it walks us throughout history, we learn about certain famous people. These people were part of something huge that forever changed history.
The author shows us the prayer connection to the life-changing event. All based on facts and resources, that she lists in the back of the book for others to look up if they want to.
That's the coolest thing, if you ask me. Deep prayer and faith, as well as persistence, contributed to these drastic changes in history. How the author gets you to connect them together is what I find cool.
This book is geared for a younger audience, but adults will enjoy the tidbits of history too. No one is too young or too old to learn about the power of prayer.

[Ray Timmerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The longer I read the book the more I liked it. This work shares the story and the prayers of many historical personalities. Perhaps the most influential to me was the story of Mother Theresa and how her sacrificial work helped so many. The title is accurate about how prayers changed history. I believe, however, that the prayers of many of the personalities in the book first changed the people who prayed them, and that is what made the difference. This is not a deep theological work on prayer. It is a collection of what can be accomplished when people pray. The only part I didn't like was including a couple of less than stellar examples from the past, ( like Christopher Columbus). I would never say that Columbus did not pray. I just would not include him in the same complimentary work as Mother Theresa or Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book with my kids & it was so interesting. The range of people covered in this book and their stories was amazing. Great for history and a great connection to the Bible.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't realize this was a kids' book when I checked it out from the library. For me, it felt very simplified and "in a nutshell" if that makes sense...and decided not to keep reading.

Before returning it, I realized that the intended audience was kids, so I skimmed through a couple sections. It seems like it might be a neat read for kids who can handle chapter books, who have an interest in learning more about historical figures who were Christian and what prayers they prayed.

So, I would recommend it ...for the intended audience!

(A bit of background...I have done extensive reading on some of the individuals discussed in this book, and read their writings too. So, if you're not familiar with any of the individuals, maybe you will find of interest to you, even if you're an adult!)

[Joy Kidney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Each chapter is about a person (or a nation) whose fervent prayers helped a major change in history. Geared toward high schoolers, you can even hear the author's voice as she home-schooled her own children. From Constantine in the year 312, Martin Luther in 1521, John Eliot in 1646, Sojourner Truth in 1826 to Mother Teresa in 1922 and the British people during WWII in 1940, each chapter includes their stories, including their own words, plus "Something to Think About, a related Bible story, and how it could impact lives today. Notes at the end include where to learn more about each person or history.

[Charity Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Half of the people in there I didn't agree with being in there. I wish there were people from the Bible in there. I did really like a few of the people in there and really learned something. It would be better named real people who changed history because of their faith.
The layout of the chapters was good. If you did a person a day you could be done in a month. You could use it as a supplement in Jr. Church/Sunday school for kids.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved using this book to teach our pre-teens at church. So many powerful stories of faith through the ages. True heroes of the faith! Kids need to be reminded that God has and will help His people through the toughest of times and that our obedience in Christ can change the world forever! Loved it!

[Sarah Poling · Rating 5 out of 5]

great tool to inspire and teach you about prayer! Easy to use with children and a wonderful resource!

[Margaret · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a children's book

This book is written for children. I did not realize this when I bought it. It is probably fine for kids but not at all suitable for an adult.

[Joann Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved learning about different people in history and how their prayers changed so many lives and even affects us still today.

[Jalynn Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

About the Book:
One prayer can change everything, says bestselling author Tricia Goyer in Prayers That Changed History. Martin Luther. Sojourner Truth. Helen Keller. St. Patrick. We read their stories, and of other people like them, in history books and hear about the amazing things they did to change the world. But one part of the story is often left out: Each one of them wouldn t have accomplished what they did without prayer. In Prayers That Changed History, the stories of twenty-five notable people are presented along with how prayer changed their lives and changed history. Following each historical example is a biblical story that ties to that person s life and actions, as well as ways you can use the power of prayer in your life as well. Because God isn t done changing the world yet, and he would love to use you to make history. Includes images of each historical figure."

My Review:
I really enjoyed this book. If you are an history buff, you will absolutely love the information and prayer history behind the 25 notable people listed in the book. It's really neat learning new things and learning some new things about people that you thought you knew everything about. There is a common saying, "prayer changes everything". The people listed about in the book can attest to that as I am sure many of us can. God is ever faithful and when we pray to Him it is connect our request and our faith to our Father and that is always a good thing and it in fact will change the course of your life as well as the course of history.

Martin Luther, Helen Keller, Sojourner Truth, they were all different people that came from different walks of life but they each shared a common thread they knew where their strength come from and they knew what could change the course of the battle they were facing. The author takes you on a journey through each person's situation and shows you how God changed everything with a simple prayer.

**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review through my participation on the Z Blog Squad.

[Brandi (Rambles of a SAHM) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Prayers That Changed History Tricia Goyer uses her exceptional talent as a historical fiction writer to take you and your children on a journey through time allowing you to see through personal prayers how historical events were changed.

She begins with Polycarp and shares a bit of background surrounding the eventful prayer and then shares the prayer itself. Knowing about the events that are going to lead to Polycarp's ultimate death and then reading the prayer that he spoke just before the event is powerful. Following the story of Polycarp are twenty-four more testimonies of people throughout history that turned to prayer during a turning point.

While I liked the information and prayer by the person I really appreciated the other applications that were made about each person. Tricia includes a section that talks about how the prayer changed history and then she concludes with a section that draws a parallel to a segment in the Bible.

This book would make a great addition to a family devotional time on the importance of prayer. Of course if you are a homeschooling family this would be a great add in as you study each of these figures throughout history. I think that your family will find the book interesting while they are learning facts that aren't always covered in common textbooks.

I would note however that some of the subject matter is a little graphic (some are put to death and other more mature subject matter is discussed) but it is all presented in a very tasteful way. I agree with the age recommendation of eight and above.

I look forward to using this book over and over again in our studies and family devotional times. If you are looking to enhance the practice of prayer in your family I recommend this book highly.

I received a copy of this book to facilitate my review.

[Pam Burke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tricia Goyer shares her passion about the value of prayer in Prayers that Changed History. Although the book is aimed at young readers, it contains interesting information and valuable insights for adults as well.

Tricia has compiled stories of 25 people whose lives and prayers played important roles in history. Along with each account, she also shares a Biblical example of someone who influenced their world through prayer.

This book is interesting and inspiring just as a simple read. But as I read through the stories, I could see its value as a starting point for something much more. The introduction to each historical character could be a catalyst for further study into the person and events surrounding their story of prayer. This could be a great way for parents and children to learn together history that might not appear in typical history textbooks. It also helps bring to life the stories of Biblical characters and may encourage children to want to learn more from God's Word.

I recommend Prayers that Changed History to readers young and old who would enjoy being inspired and challenged to learn from and participate in the important practice of prayer.

Thanks to BookLook Bloggers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prayers that Changed History, by Tricia Goyer is supposed to be geared towards kids. My guess is ages 9 and up, and is even published by Zonderkidz. But don't let that stop you from reading it! This book features 25 men and women who impacted the world with their faith and prayers. Each individual is about 5-6 pages long and gives a brief history of their life, faith, and impact they brought upon the world. It's an easy read and the chapters are broken up in a few sections. You could read it as a devotional or pick and choose characters as you like. I think older children would love to hear the stories and process how God used these individuals. As an adult it stirred up my faith, and made the verse, "don't despise the days of small beginnings" Zechariah 4:10 come alive, it also showed me how powerful our prayers are when you look at someones life from start to finish. I also loved the fact that Goyer used an assortment of people. I have been a Christian for over 16 years and some of these names I had never heard before, and some I have but didn't know how deep their faith was. All in all a great read for any age.

I received this book free of charge for my honest opinion.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Prayers That Changed History. It is a unique look at history through prayers of famous people—great Christians and those who were not necessarily good Christians (in my opinion) from the time of the early church through the 20th century. I had read most of these stories before, but I enjoyed reading them again, and I also appreciated the way the author made them apply to our lives today and also gave examples from the Bible that showed similar situations. Some of the historical people featured are Polycarp, Constantine, Martin Luther, Susanna Wesley, and John Hyde. I especially enjoyed the chapter about Amy Carmichael. I wasn’t expecting anything special there, because I’ve read so many books about her already, but the story Tricia Goyer featured was a new one for me—a wonderful example of the power of prayer!
Prayers That Changed History would be a good devotional for teens, or for a family to read together. I may use it as our morning Bible time next year. We’ll probably read a chapter a week.

[Cricket Muse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aimed at middle readers (8-12), Goyer provides a book that is an inspirational compilation of biographies of people whose prayers and faith changed history. Young readers begin with Polycarp, one of Jesus' disciples, and read through the world's history to learn about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German WWII martyr. Their faith, circumstances, and influence upon others are highlighted, and then each chapter is rounded out with the additional tie-in to people of faith found in the bible. There are also personal challenges for the reader, which could be applied on an individual level or in a class situation or even as a family devotional. The stories center on historically influential people such as John Newton, Mother Teresa, Sojourner Truth, Florence Nightingale, and Helen Keller. Each biography is presented in the style of a short snapshot in simple language. Goyer establishes that prayer is an effective means of change and it is hoped further editions will be forthcoming to highlight others whose prayers have bettered the world.

[Challice · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, this is written in a easy to read form so that children of all ages can be engaged and even to a certain extent participate in the reading (depending on reading level). Tricia Goyer is a homeschooling mom and its obvious that she has done her homework with this book. What I love most about this book is how much history is brought into each prayer. You understand the times, the circumstances surrounding the notable people and how this person influenced history. Each prayer “chapter” is sectioned off by a time period, a simple biography with the circumstances surrounding them, a food for thought section, “in their own words”, how they changed history, a section of how it related to what we find in the Bible, and lastly how we can apply it to our life.

I took away just as much as the children did and would highly recommend this as a simple yet powerful devotion for the upcoming school year. It is laid out chronologically which I really appreciate.

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I read through this lovely little book over the past while, I was impressed at how each story, it brought it back to prayer. Each person depicted in this book may not have been the world's greatest person. Some of them may have truly done other things that we do not extoll, but their prayers, we can always praise.

Each story has daily life applications that can be used in your homeschool, daily devotions or just family time of discussion. You will read about the person, a biblical person, and life applications and questions. I found myself wishing this book was included and scheduled in many of the yearly cycles of My Father's World as it will go perfectly with it. There is much to learn in this little book!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

PRAYERS THAT CHANGED HISTORY is about famous people who became famous because of a simple prayer. People like Christopher Columbus and Helen Keller achieved what they wanted to because they asked God to help them. I really liked this book and read it through in two days. It is very well-written and held my interest. I really like that they included the prayers and quotes in the exact words they said it in the book.

Other features include a brief biography, something to think about, in his own words, its in the Bible, and How he changed history.

Highly recommended for everyone. Even my older brother is enthralled by this book. He says it is astounding

I obtained this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

[Kristina Seleshanko · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great book to add to your family's library; both parents and kids will enjoy and benefit from it. My family learned some bits of history we hadn't known before. We were moved by many stories in the book; some will certainly stick with us. I liked the discussion questions, which really made my kids think.

NOTE: The author states that "If you seek him [God] and listen, God will speak to you - not in a voice you can hear with your ears, but in a stirring deep in your heart." Yet the Bible tells us people do sometimes hear God's voice with their ears.

In addition, parents should be aware that "the red light district" and suicide (Hitler's) are mentioned.

[Jennifer Dyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! I like history, especially when it's told in narrative form. Love prayer. And I enjoy learning more about people who've made a difference in the world. From Constantine to St. Patrick to Mother Teresa, this book tells truly inspirational stories. I can't wait to share it with others, and I'm finding myself thinking, "I need to pray!" Prayer can sound intimidating at times, but this book helps make it so...real.

Great to share with the kids. Would be something to read around the table at night during dinner. Short chapters, so you could cover one chapter in under 10 min.

[Leigh Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did not realize when I ordered this book that it was written more for younger readers, in a home-school like setting. But, having said that, I still enjoyed it. It has 25 short bios of people whose prayers have changed History and goes all the way from Polycarp in 69 to Bonhoeffer in 1945. There were several I was unaware of, but it was a quick, interesting read.

[April Motl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I thought it was an adult book when I ordered it, and it's really designed for kids, but it's a great read! When our little one gets older, this will make a fun family devotional kind of book... or maybe even for homeschool.

[Robin Hatcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book to share with your kids and grandkids.