Listen to Devotion

With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 1:11-12

Praying for You

One thing I love to do with my students is pray. We pray in chapel and before our snack. Sometimes we stop what we’re doing and thank God for the wonderful things he has done. We learn prayers by heart and sometimes we just speak prayers from the heart. But we don’t just pray with each other; we pray for each other. When someone is out sick or on vacation, we pray for them. Soon the students start requesting prayers: help my sore finger, help my mom who is sick, take care of my friend, bless my grandparents. Even pets are included. We know the power behind these prayers lies in Jesus who hears us and does what is best for us.

In our verses today, Paul wrote that he was constantly praying for the people of Thessalonica. He had just finished encouraging them that a home in heaven is waiting for God’s people. Now he prayed about their life here on earth, that God would bring to fruition goodness and deeds prompted by faith.

This prayer is for us as well. As we go through this life, complete with struggles and joys, we pray that we may reflect God’s love in our thoughts, words, and deeds. In this way we glorify and thank God for all he has done for us.

Paul also prayed that we may be glorified through Christ. Jesus does this now as he cares for us on this earth, bringing us to him through his Word in the Bible. And he promises the ultimate glory: a home in heaven. Jesus clothes us with his holiness so that, by his grace, God will welcome us as his children in that glorious heavenly home.

Working with children and their families, we shoulder much responsibility. The Holy Spirit works through us to help these little lambs learn about their Savior. Throughout all we do, say, and teach, we lead children to their Savior. Wow! That can be daunting! But God promises to make us worthy of his calling. He gives us his Word, guides us, forgives us, and encourages us to talk to him in prayer.

So, let’s pray for each other. Pray that God makes us worthy of our calling and that we share his saving Word with the children in our care, with their families, and with everyone that surrounds us. Pray that he may bless our efforts to obey his will, motivated by faith in what Jesus did for us. Pray that what we do and say leads others to Jesus. Pray confidently for forgiveness when our sinful nature takes control. Pray that Jesus is glorified through us. Thank him for the glory waiting for us. What a blessing to know that Jesus hears and answers the prayers that we pray for each other!

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for your glorious grace and salvation. Help me share your Word through my words and actions and forgive me when I fail. Please bless teachers, pastors, and all who speak your word in truth. In your name I pray. Amen.

A Question to Consider:

When works best for you to pray? Think about times during the day to set aside for prayer. Use the hymnal to find some wonderful prayers, including the section on ministry (Christian Worship hymns 895-898).