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Paul knew the importance of strategic prayer in his own life and the lives of others. And he knew what to pray for. His prayers focused on spiritual issues. He knew that if those he was praying for were spiritually mature, they could handle anything.
We, however, sometimes have it backward. We pray about physical matters, not realizing that the real battles are fought in the spiritual realm, not the physical. That’s why Paul stated that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12). That’s also why Paul urged believers to take up the full spiritual armor of God (verse 13). And when that’s been done, Paul says to pray always… for all the saints (verse 18).
Your prayers to God for believers and unbelievers are extremely important. So do what Paul did based on Colossians 1:9-12:
Elsewhere in the New Testament we see other ways Paul prayed for people and had an influence on them:
When we pray for others, we should ask God to help them grow spiritually mature. Without spiritual maturity, people will crumble at the first signs of adversity. As we just noted, Paul prayed for maturity for his friends at Colossae (Colossians 1:9-12).
As we pray for the maturity of others, as Paul did, we should also pray for our own strength and power. It's spiritual power that enables us to have "great endurance and patience… joyfully giving thanks to the Father" (verse 11). Your influence can’t help but be felt if you trust the Lord through this heartfelt prayer for others. Now that’s spiritual maturity!
Dear Lord, help us to have hearts for others. Give us strength to have the endurance through difficult circumstances, the patience to live and function around difficult people, and the joy to respond well in all forms of trials. We pray for an attitude of thankfulness and humility as we pray for those around us.
For more insight into navigating right choices through prayer, read Jim's book The Man Who Makes a Difference.
Do you pray more often for the physical and circumstantial comforts of others (and yourself!) or for the spiritual growth and maturity that God desires?
Pray faithfully for others—including your enemies (Matt. 5:44). Pray always (Ephesians 6:18), enjoying God’s constant presence (Joshua 1:9).
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Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
Memorial Day heralds the beginning of summer. To students, it begins the countdown to summer vacation. Often summer schedules are hectic with family members going in every direction for sports, camps, social activities, or college preparation. Don’t let your summer get away from you!
The best way you can help lead your family is to make sure you are growing spiritually. This growth will give you the wisdom and strength you need for leading your children in the faith. You can make this happen by regular time reading the Bible (2 Timothy 3:17), finding role models to emulate (Proverbs 27:17), avoiding influences and situations where you will be tempted (1 Corinthians 15:33, 2 Timothy 2.22), and choosing to abide in Christ in order to bear fruit (John 15:1-8).
No matter what you do with each day or in your life, doing anything God’s way is a matter of the heart. Whether it’s deciding how to spend your money or your time, how you treat people, how you dress, or how you accomplish your work, your choices reveal the treasure of your heart.
Tami
September 07, 2021
Wow ! God is so good! This powerful message penetrates my heart and soul! Lord continue guiding me and may Everything I believe say and do glorify you !