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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:
Not long after I accepted a position at the seminary where I received my own training, I attended a conference of professors from around the country. One of the speakers had a Ph.D. in religion and theology. It wasn’t long before it became apparent that, while this person knew a lot about God, he did not have a personal relationship with God through Christ. During a lunch break, I sat with him and initiated a conversation about salvation and the gospel message.
Sometimes the accounts of the faithful in the Bible can feel a bit intimidating. You may wonder if you will ever transform into a man or woman with godly influence. Maybe you feel that way when you read about the woman in Proverbs 31, or when you read about the life of Paul. Paul was Jesus’ “chosen vessel” to spread the Savior’s name “before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15).
Becoming an empty nester presents many unexpected challenges, especially when we have been used to living in a home bustling with children. For years, our calendar was marked with school projects, sporting events, youth groups, and family meals around the table. Now we have an abundance of free time, and we want to steward it well.
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 !