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 your 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 be agreeing in prayer with each other over matters of the heart. Imagine what could be gained!
Prayer for the Day
Lord Jesus, oddly it seems that I am praying to You about You praying for me. That concept 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 me to grow in grace and knowledge with others. Amen.
Prayer Thoughts
Chapter 50
It is possible for a person to gain clarity about direction in life. With Godly wisdom a Christian can live the life God intended. Wisdom for me is the supernatural knowledge and understanding of life given through Scripture to guide me to know what is right and wrong. This discernment gives me a definite line for separating good and evil. It acts as an umpire in my life and blows the whistle on that which is false. [Read pages 223-226 in Keep Me and Keep All.]
~ Keep Me and Keep All, Smith
Also check out Pastor Bob’s answer to Prayer Question #23 on page 263: “What is the role of the Bible in prayer?”