I discovered something interesting a couple of weeks ago. It might be something that you’ve known for a long time, but it was a thought that startled me. This idea shouldn’t have been so thought provoking, but it was.
I’ve grown up knowing Christ. I’ve been no stranger to prayer. So why is it I was surprised when I came across Philippians 1:3-4?
“I thank my God in all my remembrances of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy.”
Paul is writing to the Philippians. There’s much in this book to process, but it’s the verse where he’s talking about praying with joy that got me thinking…when was the last time I prayed with joy? I understand solemn and somber prayers, but what about joyful prayers?
A couple days later, I discovered Philippians 4:6….
- “…do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made know to God.”
Praying with thanksgiving. So simple, like praying with joy. And yet, another thought…when was the last time I prayed with thanksgiving?
I’ve read both of these verses plenty of times, but never before seen the emphasis on the type of prayer – joy and thanksgiving. Chalk it up to the Holy Spirit at work. Obviously, the Lord was wanting me to pay attention. My prayers needed an overhaul. So my next logical thought was there must be more verses.
- “We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you,” Colossians 1:3
- “Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.” Colossians 4:2
- “These I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my alter; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.” Isaiah 56:7
The point was clear. I have gotten into a prayer rut, but I am called to more! Solemn and somber prayers have their place, but so do joyful and thankful prayers! Now, to work on getting out of my rut and to continue along the path the Lord is leading me on daily. 🙂
Adventures of a Single Pretzel 