Pray for one another
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.” (NIV) Ephesians 6:18.
“Carry each other's burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (NIV) Galatians 6:2.
Every new year is embraced with so much enthusiasm and joy. Christians across the world have long lists of prayer requests of their expectations towards a better year. Many at times, these prayer requests center on us and our well-being, our families and friends. Hardly do we extend these prayers to fellow saints/Christians we do not know.
One trait that is rearing its ugly head among Christians is the trait of individualism. We are even individualistic in our prayers. But Christianity was founded on love (John 15:13) and collectivism. An example of collectivism was demonstrated by the early Christians (Acts 2:44-45). It is not surprising that the apostle Paul in his epistles to the Galatians asked them to carry or share in each other’s burden.
So, what kind of burden was the apostle Paul talking about? I believe all kinds of burdens. Have we ever dedicated a day to fast and pray for saints who are weak in the faith? Or pray for the sick among the saints? Or prayed for the saints with peculiar problems? It is important that we go beyond ourselves and the people we know when we pray. Let us extend our prayers to all the saints especially those we do not even know.
My prayer for all saints today is that, may God keep our faith grounded in Him alone, may we exhibit total obedience to God’s word, may He bless us in all aspects of our lives and may those of us with emotional, physical and spiritual needs get solutions from Him this year in Jesus’ name, AMEN!