As Christians, we know that it’s good to ask for prayer. Though God doesn’t say “yes” to all of our requests, we know that he wants us to ask him for what we need. Sometimes, though, when we’re asking for prayer, we say things that aren’t necessary. Sometimes, we even say things that are downright wrong. Let's take a look at these things and see what the Bible says about them. 1. “I’m sorry to keep asking for prayer so often…”
Truth: There’s never a need to be sorry about having so many prayer requests! In fact, we’re under instructions to pray for each other often and about all sorts of requests. “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” -Ephesians 6:18 2. “I don’t want to bother you by asking for prayer…” Truth: We’re supposed to pray for each other! Saying a specific request makes it easier for the rest of us to know what to say. “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.” -1 Timothy 2:1 3. “It’s not very important…” Truth: Even if it’s not a big deal to the world, it’s a big deal to you. God cares about even the small things. Everything that he has created is precious to him. “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.” -Luke 12:6 God cares about us more than we could ever possibly imagine. No matter how large or small your request, God wants you to bring it before him. We, the believers in Jesus, are one unit. In that unit, there are many members, each with different needs and requests. One way that we celebrate our unity in Christ is by using these requests to build each other up, just like God wants us to do. God already paid the ultimate price for us. Because of his act of incredible, boundless love, we can see that he cares for us more than we can ever imagine. As his children, we are called to follow his example and love each other. With that in mind, why would it be a burden for anyone else to pray for you? “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” -John 13:15 (words of Jesus) Action point: Bring your prayer requests to other believers (and to God!) without hesitation Purpose: Freedom from being controlled by fear or hesitation in following God’s design
2 Comments
Jenny Chasteen
3/13/2020 08:13:17 am
Thanks for your well-written article, Rachel! Those ARE things I tend to say when asking for prayer, but you're right--we don't need to hesitate.
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3/13/2020 08:58:18 am
Thanks! I'm glad you could relate. I'll admit that I often find myself saying these things, too—but I shouldn't.
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About meHi, I'm Rachel. I write adventure stories, but I can't let my characters have all the adventures. Archives
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