Recently I have been thinking more about prayer and what a blessing it is.
Through prayer, God:
Relieves our anxieties
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-8 ESV).
Helps us when we are tempted
Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:41 ESV).
Delivers us from trouble
When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles (Psalm 34:17 ESV).
Gives us wisdom
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him (James 1:5 ESV).
Meets us in our struggles
Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and he hears my voice (Psalm 55:17 ESV).
Brings healing
Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord (James 5:14 ESV).
Upholds us
Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved (Psalm 55:22 ESV)
Enlighten us
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people (Ephesians 1:18 ESV)
This is why we are encouraged to “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6-18).
The beautiful thing is that we can pray anytime, and anywhere. Some have found that praying to God amid all of life’s activities helps them to stay in fellowship with Him throughout the day.
Are you making the most of wonderful privilege of prayer?
Pastor Rob