Petitions of Prayer

 

     A special, set-aside time each day to spend with God will strengthen your relationship with Him. Relationships take time and intimacy. The Bible goes a step further.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

     Tucked into these verses are the words, “pray continually” and “in every situation by prayer and petition.” Wow, pray continually and pray in EVERY situation? Jesus is with us and His Spirit lives within us every single moment of every single day. Can we lift up every circumstance as we move through our days? Praying for protection as we pull out of our driveways? Praying for someone we notice along the way that looks harried or sad? Can we stop to pray for a friend that comes into our mind and heart? Or praise God for the beauty of His creation? Can we ask for help with our anxious thoughts when they begin to take over?

     I would say a resounding, “Yes!” and “Amen!” God is our constant companion. The Holy Spirit of the living God resides within us and will calm us and listen to us and keep us in peace as we acknowledge His presence. I don’t know about you, but perpetual prayer sounds like a great way to live, continually surrounded with God’s presence.

     Private prayer and perpetual prayer in relationship with the real and living God is worth a try. Let’s welcome Him into our presence right now.

Dear jesus,

You are right here, right now, past, present and future. You are willing to guide us through this life, every step of it, until we walk into eternity. Show us how to pray continually in every situation, practicing Your presence along the way.

Amen