Biblical Teaching on Prayer
Luke 22:31-32
Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.
~Jesus
Pondering Point
What lessons on prayer jump out because of these words? A few come to mind: Having faith doesn’t rule out failure. Jesus knew that Peter would betray Him – even as a follower. Also: God uses our faith to help us get back up or “turn back” as it says – and even help others in similar situations.
Jesus didn’t limit His prayers to Peter. Romans 8:34 says that Jesus intercedes for all who love Him. Where are you being tempted or tested? What might Jesus have in mind if He were praying about a situation with you or concerning your friends or family?
Besides Jesus, who else prays for you? Do those praying for you know what you’re praying about, enabling them to agree with you in prayer? That would be a good idea. What would it cost you to share your heart and heart’s prayerful desires with those who pray for you? Encourage them to take notes or even offer them notes about your prayers. And offer to pray for them in specific ways. You will actually be agreeing in prayer with each other over matters of the heart. Imagine what could be gained?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, oddly it seems that I am praying to You about You praying for me. The idea of You praying for me is a humbling and deeply moving reality to take in. What a blessing! Strengthen my faith. Let me grow even through my failures – let us grow through moments of failures and faithfulness. And remind to grow in grace and knowledge together. Amen.
Proverbs for the Week
Proverbs 1:7
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.