Philippians 1:3-4
“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy.”
I think it would be safe to say that there are selfish prayers as well as thankful prayers. The selfish prayers are motivated by how much it will benefit us or those we are praying for. The thankful prayers recognize the faithfulness of God.
THANKS. Paul says that every time he thinks of them, he thanks God for them. Not only does he thank God for them, he does so every time he thinks of them. That is the first key. Make a covenant with God that every time you think of those He lays upon your heart, you will pray for them. Give thanks that He reminded you about them. Give thanks for the way they have been a blessing to you and in your walk with the Lord.
PERSEVERANCE. Chuck Swindoll wrote a book he titled Three Steps Forward, Two Steps Back. For most of us that is an accurate description. Give thanks for the way God has promised never to leave nor forsake those who call upon His name. Every time we make a slip or slide, an indiscretion or doubt, God is ever faithful and true to His Word.
PROMPTNESS. It is helpful to pray for/with the person when the request is made. This is not always possible, but usually it is. That way they know we have been listening and are bringing their need to our Blessed Burden Bearer!
Blessings dear hearts. May God richly bless you as you bless others by your words and actions!
– – Pastor Cecil