Years ago, I asked for prayer from trusted people who supported me in ministry as I embarked on a pilgrimage and academic journey to Israel. Although I was a leader in various capacities, I knew prayer from other believers was vital. Sometimes we believe if we are leaders in our homes, communities, workplaces, churches, and businesses, we should show strength and not rely on others for prayer. Has that ever been the case for you?
Paul gives us a great example of a leader requesting prayer through his heartfelt letter to the Church of Thessalonica. Paul petitioned, “Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we ask you to pray for us. Pray that the Lord’s message will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes, just as when it came to you. Pray, too, that we will be rescued from wicked and evil people, for not everyone is a believer.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 NLT)
Paul expressed the prayer need for the goal of spreading the Lord’s message rapidly and for that message to be honored, but he also asked for prayer regarding the opposition they faced in pursuing that goal.
Even in our ministry at CBN and Operation Blessing, where our goal is to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world, we face opposition to achieving that goal. Having our times of prayer helps us meet our goals and overcome opposition. Just as we pray for others in the US and around the world, we too ask for prayers. Asking for prayer is not a sign of weakness but a sign of wisdom and reliance on God. Paul illustrated this same heart in 1 Thessalonians 5:25 (NLT) when he urged, “Brothers, pray for us as well.”
When Paul asks for prayer, he is reminding the church—and us—of the power of prayer to change circumstances and strengthen resolve. He does not just want prayer for protection; he also desires that God’s message be honored and spread widely. Paul understands that prayer is a vital tool in the believer’s arsenal, enabling us to stand firm in the face of adversity and advance the gospel with boldness.
No matter what we face, we have the assurance that God hears our prayers and that He is faithful to protect, provide, and prevail. Today, let us commit to praying for others, asking God to change hearts, spread His Word, and protect His people.
Let us pray.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the power of prayer and the reminder that we are not alone in this journey. We ask that You help us be faithful in praying for the spread of Your Word and the protection of Your people. Strengthen us to stand firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition. May Your message spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.
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Scripture is quoted from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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