I'll pray for you isn't just something nice to say to a friend in need.
It's a commitment to share their burden and unite your faith as you seek the Lord.
It's an investment. It's realizing that there is more to this life than what I want, what I need or what I have time for.
Earlier this year I read a book by Jonathan Acuff called "Stuff Christians Like". Without a doubt, this is a tongue in cheek look at Christianity. I remember reading a passage about praying for one another. He writes "Sometimes saying "I'll pray for you" is just the Christian equivalent of ending a date by saying, "I'll give you a call".
Anyone else feel like they were punched in the gut on that one?
Saying I'll pray for you shouldn't be my go to saying for when I'm uncomfortable and don't know what else to say.
It should be my battle cry.
I will be on my knees, seeking the Father for your need. I will be invested in you and your situation. I will be there to share this burden with you, because you are my sister in Christ and I love you.
Saying I'll pray for you should be more than just my good intention. How many times have I said "You'll be in my prayers" and then promptly went right back to the day in day out business of life, forgetting about my pledge to pray for you.
Starting today, let's make a change together. Let's make prayer our priority. Let's spend twice as much time praying about a problem then we spend talking or fretting about it.
I'm in....how about you?
I'm in! thanks Charli! love you!!!
ReplyDeleteI know there have been times God hes prompted me to pray with that person right then and I didn't do it. I have also been trying not to say "I'll pray " unless I intend to do so. Thanks for the reminder and the challenge.
ReplyDeleteThanks Charlie for that reminder. I usually ask the person if I can pray for them right then and there. When I do this I've actually locked their need in my mind and heart and I'll continue to think about them over the days ahead and continue to pray for their need. It really means something to people when they know they are not alone in praying for their need and having someone stand with them in agreement.
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