Be Careful What You Pray For!

When we pray, what are our expectations? Do we simply want God to hear us? Do we want Him to answer immediately and give us everything we have asked for? As Christians, we have the both the blessing and duty to pray. For ourselves, our families, friends, shared prayer requests and even for those who do not like us or we are not particularly fond of.

In first Kings, Solomon is praying to God while dedicating the temple he just built. In the eighth chapter, we find Solomon beseeching God to do a lot. To hear His people, have sympathy for them, to act on their requests, to forgive them of their sins and honor the temple that had been built.

Like Solomon, we also pray to God with the expectation (and maybe even the demand?) that He will grant our requests. One important note about prayer: it should not be considered a list of "here are the things I want Lord". We were created for fellowship with Him. Fellowship that includes daily communication, thanksgiving, guidance, sharing and praise. Prayer is cheapened when it only comes from an I want perspective.

However, when we do pray we should be prepared for God to answer. When we say, "Lord thy will be done". Are we prepared to experience all that comes with that request? The good and the bad? The triumphs and the sacrifice? The highs and the lows? When we pray, "Lord give me victory over my enemies." Are we prepared to go to battle?

Before heading out on the road to Damascus, Saul "prayed" that he be allowed to go find followers of the Way (Acts 9:1-6). Saul's prayer was answered. He found Jesus.

Be careful what you pray for!

Pastor Aaron