2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the Lord’s message may spread quickly and be honored as in fact it was among you. And pray that we may be delivered from perverse and evil people.
In most of his letters, Paul wrote that he was constantly praying for the believers he was writing. At times it was with concern and at other times with great joy. Sometimes he added, “pray for us!” Prayer is powerful and through it we can help accomplish God’s good work!
Recently, I felt prompted to pray for a certain friend. Afterwards I sent her part of that prayer in a message. Hours later she responded, “I just now saw your message, but looking at the time it was sent, at that moment you prayed my difficult situation changed.” Praise God! A few days ago, knowing that my daughter was feeling stressed with the intense class work for her last year of nursing training, I began praying diligently for her. Last night she wrote that there had been a real change in her heart and mind: peace! Like a massive burden had lifted. We do not always get the feedback that our prayers are tangibly impacting someone or their circumstances, but prayer is significant.
Paul prayed. Jesus prayed. We must also be diligent in prayer. Every evening, our family prays together. It is such an important event for every one of us. Yet, my kids find it difficult to pray when they are “alone” at boarding school. Perhaps you find it difficult too. If you don’t have the possibility to pray with someone, then begin by praying two simple prayers every day: a “Good morning, Father” prayer and a “Good night, Jesus” prayer. In the beginning keep it simple, then allow it to grow naturally. If you are consistent, it can grow into a good and powerful habit! And when you pray, pray for us: Garold and Lori. And pray for our family, here in Kenya!