The Focus of Prayer

Scripture Journal entry for May 19, 2010, using the SOAP method.

Scripture—2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us, so that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified everywhere, just as it is among you, 2 and that we may be rescued from wicked and evil people; for not all have faith.

Observation—This prayer request was first and foremost for the sake of the effectiveness of the ministry. Personal well-being was only a secondary concern.

Application—It’s natural to pray for protection and other personal needs. But here it’s clear that, as one matures in the faith, the prayers mature as well, focusing more on the ministry and less on the minister. This is one of the reasons that I so appreciate reading the Scriptures. Yes, sometimes there are differences of viewpoint within the Bible and, as I journalled a few days ago, there are sometimes modern questions as to who actually wrote what as well as some evidence that the Biblical writers were human too. Nevertheless, in the New Testament in particular, there is a prevailing witness to the mission of the church in grateful service to the One who is considered worthy of all our devotion and praise.

Prayer—Lord, help me to keep such things in mind as I go about my life and call. In Jesus’ name. Amen.