First of
all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made
for everyone.
In Paul’s letter to Timothy, he devotes an entire chapter
to prayer. Why? We all say prayers. Daily we make requests for the ill, the hungry, the
needy. So what is it we don’t already know about prayer?
Motivation for prayer can become weakened by anger, greed, grief, and
disappointment. It is easy for us to pray for the leadership of our government in a
positive way, but how do we pray for the government of Afghanistan? Do we remember the
innocent and suffering?
It is harder for us to pray for an adversary than for a close friend.
It isn’t necessarily that we wish them ill. It’s just that adversaries are not
foremost in our hearts and minds. We don’t always remember to pray for them.
Paul gives us instructions on how to focus with clarity in prayer to
God. Each day presents us with new opportunities to offer him praise and thanksgiving and
to open ourselves to all people.
Dear Lord, we pray not as we ought, but as we are able. May the
Holy Spirit guide us into closer relationship with you so that our prayers come more
easily. Help us to remember friend and foe alike, since all are in need of your forgiving
grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Kara Pryor
