“Pray For One Another”

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

BIBLE READING: James 5:13–16; Colossians 4:2–4; 2 Thessalonians 3:1–5; Hebrews 13:18–19

“Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you…” (1 Thessalonians 3.1)

We should never be trite in saying, “I’ll pray for you.” Prayer is a powerful and effective in our work of faith (James 5.17). We are encouraged to do so with devotion (Acts 2.42), both steadfastly and earnestly (Colossians 4.2; Hebrews 13.18-19; Acts 12.5). It is not a last resort or a way to excuse ourselves from involvement with others. To truly pray for one another is a the most meaningful work that we all should do.

In scripture, the prayers of the saints brought unity, direction, encouragement, and wisdom (ex. Acts 2.42-47; 6.1-6 13.1-3; 16.25). It moved God to save (Acts 12) and settle their hearts in the fear of him (Acts 4.23-31). The outcome of prayer is always in God’s court, according to his purposes and for his glory. But it is our efforts of prayer that position us to receive his mercy and align ourselves with his purposes. When we pray for one another, it knits us together in one mind and heart. In Christ, I grow when we grow. God is glorified as we become closer knit together as a single body, working in harmony and love (Ephesians 3.10, 4.11-16; Colossians 2.2). We need to constantly pray for one another towards this end (Colossians 1.9).

For this reason, Paul often sought the prayers of the brethren in his work of faith. He trusted in the power of God’s Spirit to align their thinking according to God’s plans and not his own. In his request to the Thessalonians, we see his intentions: To speed ahead God’s word and honor him. Paul understood it was the Lord’s work to move his efforts forward. He had seen it happen among these very brethren. But he also knew that it would come according to God’s timing and purposes. Their prayers to this end would be encourage him and honor God’s work in their efforts.

When we pray for each other, we become more aware of God’s will. We learn more about his desire for all people to be saved and come to repentance (2 Peter 3.9). We recognize the need for his people to grow into maturity in Christ (Ephesians 4.15; Colossians 1.28). We gain confidence in his love towards us and through us (1 Thessalonians 3.4-5).

We must never see prayer as a wishful incantation or an easy out. It is a powerful tool for fellowship and direction from God. We pray because we believe God hears and acts. We don’t presume to tell him what to do, but we trust that when the righteous cry out, the LORD hears them and delivers them out of their trouble (Psalm 34.17). So, let us be earnest to serve one another with this work of faith.

Share