As a minister, I have been asked a lot of questions about prayer. Maybe even more questions on that than any other subject. Why this curiosity in prayer? Part of the reason is that people believe in it and they want to do know how to pray in a proper manner. Another reason is that people often feel at a loss to take care of things on their own and realize the need for a Higher Power. Sometimes, unfortunately, it is a last resort when all else fails.

But, what should I pray about? In today’s world, that is one of the easier questions to answer! Here are a few suggestions:

• The sick—The sick list in our bulletin would be a good place to start. We have a lengthy list and all of them would appreciate your prayers. On the other hand, if you are on Facebook or other social media, there are many requests listed by individuals for themselves, family members or friends. By the way, you might want to pray for the medical personnel who take care of us. They have been the real heroes for the last year!
• Our government—Paul and Peter encouraged Christians to be obedient to the government and pray for those in authority. We can pray for their safety or for wisdom as they lead our nation or for a peaceful and quiet life as believers. (1 Tim. 2:2) Remember, the government is a God ordained institution and we should pray for these who are “the minister(s) of God to thee for good.” (Rom. 13:1-7)
• The church—The church always needs prayers. Prayers for the leadership, prayers for the programs, prayers for evangelistic opportunity and success, prayers for strength of the members, prayers for unity, prayers for the youth, etc. Paul’s prayer for the church in Colossae was for spiritual growth. (Col. 1:9-14)
• Our world—Things aren’t going very well in the world, right now, and they could get worse. We need to pray about those affected by natural disasters, the pandemic, wars, etc. But, we also need to pray for open hearts and minds that will be receptive to the preaching of the gospel. It isn’t too much of a stretch to believe that Jesus will come soon. There are souls to save and prayer can make a big difference in reaching them before it is too late!

 

    Gary Knuckles is Minister of the Briensburg Church of Christ and lives in Benton, Ky.