We all should have this verse committed to memory. It is part of a Christian's conduct, outlined in 1 Thess. 5:12-22. A couple weeks ago I shared a dream with you and in the dream the pastor's wife was slightly off to the side, with head bowed as if in prayer. I believe she was representing intercessory prayer.

There's alot the Bible has to say about intercessory prayer. James exhorts us to, "pray for one another" (James 5:16). "With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints." Ephesians 6:18 (emphasis mine)

James said, "Is anyone suffering? Let him pray" (James 5:13). Paul exhorts us to, "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving" (Colossians 4:2). And in Philippians he encourages us to, "be anxious for nothing, 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 comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:6-7). And Jesus, Himself, was an example before us as He went off to a "mountain by Himself to pray", usually spending whole night there in prayer. (Matt. 14:23; Luke 6:12; 9:28). Jesus also told us to, "pray for those who persecute you" (Matt. 5:44). Throughout the Word of God, He tells us to and is an example of prayer. He even gave us a model prayer (Matt. 6:9-13).

Who are we to pray for? In 2 Timothy 2:1-4 Paul exhorts, "I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth". We are to pray for "all" men (and women), along with those in authority. Notice that "this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior".

Prayer is a very important part of our Christian walk; it is how we maintain an intimate relationship with the Father. If we aren't praying, how can we expect to know what to do next and have our faith grow?

Heavenly Father, Thank You so much for Your Word and for teaching me through it. May I become a person devoted to prayer with an attitude of thanksgiving, for You are worthy, for I now realize that this is good and acceptable in Your sight. To You be all glory in all I do. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

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The above message is sent to you as an encouragement. Please pass this on to friends and family. To add yourself or a loved one to the mailing list reply to [email protected] Subject: "add to" (or to be removed indicate "remove")

Encouragement From The Heart Website updated March 17, 2000 (note: web address changed).
http://www.geocities.com/correiaville/encourag.html there's a new page, "The Master's Garden" stop by and check it out!

Scripture references (unless noted otherwise): The Open Bible, New American Standard
copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977
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