Biblical Teaching on Prayer
1 Thessalonians 1:2
We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.
Pondering Point
Fellowship with God and with His people is a hallmark of Christian life. Paul’s “attitude of gratitude” in life gets revealed by his prayers. Thankfulness for others abounds in his recorded prayers throughout the New Testament. It is evident he values Godly relationships with others. To emulate Paul and pray in appreciation for others is a beautiful way to express love for others –AND – sharing this attitude of gratitude with them is especially beautiful as they get to hear of your fondness for them.
Prayer
Father God, may my words – as the Apostle Paul says in Ephesians 4:29 – be helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. Help me learn to be grateful for people and let it show. Today I thank you for these people: (list them to God… )
You can then conclude with...
In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Don’t forget to let them hear of your fondness!
Prayer Thoughts
Chapter 16
Glory
During the early 1970’s I had become acquainted with an organization called the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). In those years I started what was called a “FCA Huddle Group.”…
FCA’s purpose was and still is to combine people’s passion for sports with their passion for Christ. They taught that these two worlds don’t have to be separated. This was exactly the kind of influence I wanted for our two boys. Kurtis and Eric were very agreeable to going to the football camps in Indiana. Their attendance was a time of “inspiration and perspiration.”
As it has worked out over the years FCA has been a powerful inspiration, especially to our son Eric. He has participated and coached football over the last twenty years. He has been equipped, empowered and encouraged by those of FCA touching his life. He in turn has neatly woven his Christian worldview into coaching of young athletes. Eric continues to challenge and develop spiritual values into the lives of players he coaches. Lives have and are being changed. He has learned to play and coach to the glory of God.
Got his book? Read pages 85-88 in Keep Me and Keep All, Smith.
Also check out Pastor Bob’s answer to Prayer Question #25 on page 266: “How long should prayers be?"