I also, after I heard of your faith in
the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints,
do not cease to give thanks for you,
making mention of you in my prayers.
-Ephesians 1:15
Did you know that Paul was a prisoner when he wrote these words with such conviction about compassionate prayer for others? You would expect an innocent prisoner to rant, rave, blame others, question God, and sink into depression. But not Paul. He praised God! His outbursts of worship and lists of blessings run through his entire letter to the believers in Philippi. The overflow of Paul’s heart is evidence that he spent his time meditating on God’s sovereign plan, the Holy Spirit’s indwelling, Jesus’s supremacy, and the shining effects of God’s grace.
Pray as Paul did! No matter your circumstances or your troubles, ask God to help you and the people in your life develop “spiritual eyes” for seeing and understanding your riches and blessings in Jesus Christ. Tell Him you want to.
- know Him better
- look with great hope and anticipation to His upward calling
- understand your special relationship as His child and heir
- experience His power moment by moment
What are your difficult circumstances today? You might be limited by a life situation, but God is never hampered. Praise Him! Then write a few words of hope and comfort to a loved one who needs encouragement. Or call and pray with someone who needs God’s peace.
Lord, thank You for hearing my prayers for my friends and loved ones. Help me be an example of Your love and grace and share spiritual insights from God’s Word. May we all give You praise, honor, and glory. Amen.
Read Spiritual Insights on Elizabeth & Jim George.