Prayer is clearly one of the most powerful forces known to mankind. Because the God Who authorizes it is Himself omnipotent.
The Verse Fragment as it appears in the Lesson title is taken from Luke 22:2 where Jesus used those very words in speaking to Peter.
Let me show you … “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: BUT I HAVE PRAYED FOR THEE, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.”
Jesus praying for someone!
Yes, and in fact, He is still praying for us His children! From the Right Hand of God the Father … “He (our dear Lord) ever liveth to make intercession for them.” For us, Hebrews 7:25, astounding!
One of the highest benefits you can render to any person is to be able to truthfully say … “I have prayed for you.”
Everywhere we go, as an Evangelist and his Wife, we try to build a small army of folks who will pray for us. I cherish these words, which we hear with some frequency now … “I am praying for you.”
I believe, if space provided, I could prove to you that our power as spiritual warriors could be enhanced as we pray for other Christians! I would lead you to Ephesians 6, the premier “whole armour of God” Passage of the New Testament. Read it in part … “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: PRAYING ALWAYS with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
Among with the armour, putting it on, Paul adds the Prayer Text! “I have prayed for thee.” Praying one’s way to power, to victory!
Furthermore, in 1 Timothy 2 we are taught as we pray for OTHERS, God can bless US with a quiet and peaceable life! Paul again … “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”
“I have prayed for thee!”
By the way, God answers prayer!
Why not start you a prayer list? And let it grow, name after name. So you can honestly say to many in future days, “I HAVE PRAYED FOR YOU!”
No greater blessing could be bestowed!
Listen to godly Samuel … “God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you.” 1 Samuel 12:23
And if you cannot think of anyone for whom to pray … may we be added to your list?
And I’ll guarantee you … we shall be grateful should you ever tell us … “I HAVE PRAYED FOR THEE!”
And in advance … thank you!
— Dr. Mike Bagwell
.