Our Prayers!

Are we constantly mindful of the blessing and privilege we have in prayer? Though God is well aware of our needs and the varying situations of life (note Matthew 6:32), He has given us PRAYER as a means of placing a deliberate focus toward Him. Time spent in prayer reminds us of our dependence on God and reveals our desire to retain the close relationship with Him. However, what is the paramount focus of our personal prayers? Someone has said, “Prayer is something more than asking God to run errands for us.” [source: “1600 Squibs And Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie] What is it to us?

There are some who seem to view prayer as a “panic button” when they find themselves in trouble. Others appear to see prayer as merely the means of presenting their “wish list” to God. Certainly God has given us prayer as a means of calling upon Him for His help and to petition Him with regard to needs, but is there another element that may be sometimes slighted?

Paul exhorted the church at Thessalonica to…
“(16) Rejoice always, (17) PRAY WITHOUT CEASING, (18) GIVE THANKS in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” ( 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)

And writing to Timothy, Paul urged…
“(1) First of all, then, I urge that SUPPLICATIONS, PRAYERS, INTERCESSIONS, and THANKSGIVINGS be made for all people, (2) for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” ( 1 Timothy 2:1-2 ESV)

Do our prayers tend to be long on requests while short on THANKS? Our prayers may rightly focus on particular life circumstances, needs (both physical and spiritual) of others and ourselves, and for godly wisdom to be exercised by those in decision making and governing positions. However, while we are diligent in prayer with regard to these things we should be just as conscientious in remembering to THANK GOD for all that He has done, for His continued mindfulness of our life, and for the eternal hope we have in Christ! As Paul noted in both these letters, this is the “will of God” ( 1 Thessalonians 5:18) and is both “good” and “pleasing” ( 1 Timothy 2:3) in His sight.

Have a great day SUSTAINED BY A GRATITUDE ATTITUDE TOWARD GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Prayer