2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Jeremiah 1-2 GW; Psalms 28 GW; 1 Thessalonians 1 GW
Pray passionately.
Paul is writing to the Thessalonians on behalf of himself, Silas, and Timothy. He tells the Thessalonians how grateful they are for them and that the boys are covering the church in prayer.
Praying for people is the best thing you can do for them, no matter who they are. The closer the relationship, the more fervent the prayers. Someone told me long ago, “Mothers are only as happy as their happiest child.” If one of the kids is in pain, moms feel it too. Not a mom; I can’t speak from experience. But I know when someone I love is struggling, my prayers for them become more passionate than ever. In extreme situations, I fast and pray.
Fasting is “abstaining from all or some kinds of food or drink, especially as a religious observance.” When partnered with prayer, fasting takes conversations with God to a deeper level. Hunger pangs create an awareness of your physical need and turn your thoughts to why you’re hungry. Thinking about the topic of your prayers will begin a heart conversation with God that can happen no other way.
Become passionate.
If you have a loved one who is suffering, fast and pray for them. Although usually connected with food, you can abstain from anything. Maybe take a break from social media; every time you subconsciously open the app, pray instead. Television is another option; turning off the screen for some time will give you ample time to talk to God. Whatever you choose, set a time you are going to fast, then do it.
On day three of a fast for one of my relationships, I can tell you, it works. Fasting breakfast and lunch by 11:00 a.m., my prayers are passionate. Today, my fervent prayer was for God to change me. When you love someone, you’ll do the hard work to become healthy for them, enabling a more beneficial relationship.
Pray for those you love. Become a passionate prayer. Allow God to do the work.
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Lord, thank You for wanting to talk to us. Forgive us for trying everything else before we try You. As we fast and pray, do Your work from within us. Help us become healthier, helping those we love become healthy as well. Hear our prayers, heal our wounds, calm our hearts. IJNIP. Amen
Question for reflection
Who needs your prayers today?
