Praying for Others

How we pray says a lot about our relationship with Jesus. Have you ever stopped and thought about what your prayer life looks like? Is it the same prayer for the same people most of the time? Does it vary from day to day? Are you an instant prayer warrior by stopping whatever you are doing when a prayer is laid on your heart? Let's look at how, who and when you prayed TODAY. Better yet, have you prayed today?

The Bible tells us much about prayer; that we should pray for those that are afflicted (hurting), those that have hurt us as well as those that God has placed on our heart. In fact, the Bible even tells us to pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Is your prayer life comprised of all three? As hard as it is, do we truly pray for people that have done something harmful towards us? How do we pray for them? Certainly, we do not pray that they are blessed from these harmful actions or that they continue in them. But, we do pray that God will speak into their lives letting them know the pain the action(s) caused and that they will turn from these type of actions in the future and, in doing so, open their hearts more toward Jesus and the desire He has for their life.

As I continue to journey with Christ, He has worked on my heart when it comes to prayer. At first, I would try to remember all the prayer requests that I became aware of through the day. Then, I would try to recite them back to God every evening before going to sleep. The problem with doing so was misremembering, not remembering at all or falling asleep before I even started praying!

Continuing to seek His guidance, Jesus lovingly and emphatically spoke to me regarding prayer. He transformed me into an instant prayer warrior. Instead of waiting for a better or more convenient time or until I could concentrate better, I now immediately prayer as soon as someone asks me to or when God lays a prayer on my heart. It may not be a long drawn out prayer or one where I close my eyes or bow my head (especially when driving), but I have intentionally gone to God with my prayers as soon as they are made known to me.

As you continue in your daily conversations with God, which is what prayer consists of, I encourage you to become an instant prayer warrior. I can tell you from personal experience that it will bring you into a deeper relationship with Him and give you an new and healthier perspective on your prayer life...

Pastor Aaron