March 8 2019 -- II Corinthians 1:8-11 -- Combating Lifeless Prayers

8 For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. 10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again. 11 You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.

II Corinthians 1:8-11 English Standard Version (ESV)

Are you plagued by lifeless prayer? You want to pray, but it seems so, I don’t know, dull and small? Today’s reading is a powerful reminder of the great need for and the explosive power of prayer. Paul and his companions were so stretched and exhausted in the work of the Gospel and under so much persecution they despaired of life itself! Why would God allow this?

So that these men would rely on God alone.

So that those praying for them would know that God chooses to work through the prayers of His people.

So that all involved would know it was God Himself Who saved them and gave them the power they needed to endure. Their human strength had failed. When they triumphed then all their boasting would be in Him alone!

So that the community of faith would know the urgent necessity of prayer.

Perhaps so many of our prayers are lifeless because we do not see the needs others have, their desperate situation and urgent need for relief. Our love for our friends and family would drive us to our knees banging at the doors of heaven’s throne room of mercy and help IF we really understood others are relying on our prayers to God on their behalf.

Perhaps our prayers are lifeless because we are so self-absorbed. Our prayers will explode into life when we see the vast spheres of influence He gives us in Christ when we take our eyes off ourselves and pray, earnestly and truly pray, for others.

Perhaps our prayers are lifeless because we hear the needs, but do not tell others the victories. When we were in the pit of despair we asked for help. When the help arrived did we take the time to praise God and tell the other prayer warriors: “See what God has done for me! Listen to how God answered!” As prayers have been answered, those united in prayer would have ever increasing reasons to bless the Name of God.

Perhaps our prayers are lifeless because we do not truly see where Jesus is. King Jesus is seated in power next to God the Father. Jesus directs the life of believers by His prayers on our behalf. Jesus helps believers in response to their prayer by His Spirit and His Word. Jesus brings to bear our Father’s great love by pointing to His nail-scarred hands and feet and reminding His Father—for these I suffered, Father, so that You would receive the honour and glory and Your beloved children would be lifted from death to life.

O God, our boast is of You, all the day long. Give us ears to hear the cries of our friends and neighbours. Give us softened hearts so that we will pray with greater urgency and love. Give us clarity of sight so that we can discern Your answer to prayer. In all this, we pray, Lord Jesus Christ, may Your Name be praised. In all this, King Jesus, may our faith increase. In all this, we pray, that we may join together in giving thanks to You O God Who Hears Prayer, for all the blessings You have granted. Amen.

Note, I am on hiatus for Spring Break (March 9 - 19) so that I too may be refreshed and prepared afterwards to continue blogging for His glory