Praying for Unknown People and Concerns

Praying for Unknown People and Concerns

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

I Thessalonians 5:16-18

                Paul’s teaching to the church people of Thessalonica

called them to pray to God. He writes,” Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Praying in celebration of human events is easy. Rejoicing in God’s blessings is wonderful but what happens when you listen to the news of the day, whether international or local. How do you give thanks to God in these moments? Or even how do you pray for unknown situations or people? Why do we do this?

                The phrase, “I’ll pray for you,” is often uttered by both the faithful and those on the edge because these words may come across as negative. I’ll pray for you- because you need help from God. I’ll pray for you for a better outcome than this. I’ll pray for you because this is not what God or you wanted, is it? Yet when in earnest we say, “I’ll pray for you,” there is so much if we truly sit down and pray for people either aloud or in our hearts. The Spirit stirs us to what we focus upon and that is to focus on the individuals we know who need support for the circumstances they are in- facing losses, experiencing good news,. But it is not up to really know the end result, all we are to do is to lift up the people and the situation and let God answer in his way in His time.

                We pray for people to be ok during and after a flood, because we are aware the God can provide what is needed with the many faithful and willing people who share of themselves. God knows the bigger picture and who is willing to help. Our part is to pray and ask God to intercede through the Spirit by calling his followers to use their hands and feet to respond.

                We also pray for people we do know as they face surgeries, illnesses and chronic care issues. We become aware of situations we know and offer our concerns our thanksgiving and yet we know that it is  God who will respond, yes, no, not yet. So whether we know the individuals or do not it is important to pray . To talk with God about the situations and people who are in need is a vital part of our faith life and growth. To share about the needs of others is how we grow within and care for others. Praying is an act of faith with hope knowing that God will respond. Let us pray!     

 PRAYER

Wonderful God as we pray for those affected by hurricane winds and flooding we know that you are holding those affected through this difficult time. We pray that you would comfort them in this time of loss, and enabling them to see that life is not over just changed. We also pray for those who feel that they are alone in this world and are searching for you. Be with all who are in need of comfort, healing and to be loved.  We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.