Remembered In Prayer!

The mindfulness of others. Knowing that others are praying for you. Is such not among the greatest ENCOURAGEMENTS and UPLIFTS of life? Paul reminded the Philippians that he kept them in his prayers.

He wrote…
“(3) I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, (4) ALWAYS IN EVERY PRAYER OF MINE FOR YOU ALL MAKING MY PRAYER WITH JOY, (5) because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.” ( Philippians 1:3-5 ESV)

Though Paul was geographically separated from the brethren at Philippi, he was as close as a prayer. Though his situation could have discouraged these Christians, Paul continued to ENCOURAGE them in their faith by his letter and prayers. However, that prayerful ENCOURAGEMENT went both ways. Later on in this same chapter, after mentioning his attitude with regard to his imprisonment and his rejoicing in the fact that Christ was being proclaimed, we read…

“(19) for I know that THROUGH YOUR PRAYERS AND THE HELP OF THE SPIRIT OF JESUS CHRIST THIS WILL TURN OUT FOR MY DELIVERANCE, (20) as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death.” ( Philippians 1:19-20 ESV)

Mutual prayer and mutual ENCOURAGEMENT! That is what marked the relationship between these Christians and Paul. Prayer was their connection with God and each other. When we are praying people, how can it be any other way?

It has been a blessing to my own life to know that recipients of “teEn-MAIL” whom I have never met face to face from around the world let me know from time to time that I am in their prayers. As I sit here writing this focus I have one of those recent e-mails off to my side. I have also been thanked for my prayers. Know that you have them as well. Though geography may separate us we are all only a prayer away through our relationship in Christ. Thank you all for your continued interest in these daily focuses and for your ENCOURAGING prayers on behalf of this phase of ministry God has blessed me to take part in. Thank you for calling me “brother” and “friend” and for many other ENCOURAGING words. I thank God for the blessing you have become to my life. May we each continually allow God’s Word to inspire us to step out in faith for Him to use us in ways we might never have imagined. The “teEn-MAIL” connection continually reminds me that God thinks bigger than I do. May He be forever praised!

Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE JOY OF PRAYER!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Encouragement