In 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2, Paul urges the readers, “Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith.”
And in Ephesians 6, after instructing us as Christians to put on the whole armor of God, Paul adds, “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.” (Ephesians 6:18-20)
Paul knew the importance of prayer and what great things can be brought about by prayer. And, he also realized that prayer isn’t just about praying for one’s own needs and requests – rather we should also spend much time in prayer for OTHERS. He asked many times for people to pray for him about certain things.
In James 5:16, James urges us, ” Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” In other words – he realized how important prayer is and especially in helping us as we battle the world, the flesh, and the devil.
In 1 Timothy 2:1, Paul wrote, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people…” Pray for ALL people, but especially those we have a relationship with – friends, family, fellow believers.
It seems way to MANY times, when I ask “What can I pray for you about”, people just say “Oh, nothing right now.” It’s like they’re ashamed to admit they have anything in their life they need prayer about. Admitting we NEED prayer is one of the first steps in overcoming life’s trials, problems, and difficulties and finding the right road we are to follow. The fist step to overcoming any obstacle is admitting we need help! And the same is true in the Christian life! We NEED HELP!!
When someone asks me if they can pray with me about anything, I feel like saying, “Do you want the LONG list or the SHORT list?” We ALL desperately need prayer! And how can we better help each other in this life than by lifting up each other in prayer, and seeking God for each other’s needs and requests?
Admitting and asking others to pray for us about things should be a no-brainer. Pray ONE for ANOTHER!!! I hope and ask that each of you pray for me all the time!! That I have wisdom in my writing and speaking. That I resist any urge to give in to the flesh and the desires of this world, and that I daily seek to follow Jesus Christ!
I don’t know about you – but I REJOICE in having others to pray for me and help me in bringing my requests before Almight God!!!
Prayer changes things!