prayer
A Prayer of Thanksgiving
The king referred in this passage was Artaxerxes who granted Ezra’s request to return to Israel and rebuild the temple. This is an example of how the Lord can use anyone to aid a praying believer, even those who otherwise have no interest in the one true God but whose wealth or influence can be used for a holy cause.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving
When the records of eternity are read out to an assembled world, then will it appear how much prayer has wrought in this world. Little is now seen of the fruits of prayer compared to all that it has accomplished and is accomplishing. At the judgment day, then will God disclose the things which were brought to pass in this world through the prayers of the saints. Many occurrences which are now taken as a matter of course will then be seen to have happened because of the Lord’s praying ones. (Adapted from E.M. Bound, The Necessity of Prayer)
A Prayer for Victory
Although David was a great warrior and king, he knew that all good things come from the hand of God – including victory over the enemies of Israel. David’s life is a model of God’s faithfulness, even during times when our sinful natures separate us from His holy will.
A Prayer for Victory
The story of Samson reveals what happens when we take the blessings of God and use them for foolishness and self-glory. God is willing to answer our prayers and deliver us from our adversaries. It’s shameful, however, when he has to deliver us from our own worst enemy, ourselves.
A Prayer for Times of Trouble
Like the Israelites, it’s often easy to forget about God when things are going smoothly and we are healthy, prosperous, and satisfied. Yet all good things come from His hand and when we deny Him we reject the source of our abundance. By turning to Him daily, in good times and bad, He will be ever-faithful to keep us from the self-made snares of our sinful natures.
A Prayer for Decisions
When making an important decision, turn to the Lord in prayer and seek His wisdom in the pages of Scripture. Laying out a “fleece” may provide direction, but it is a poor alternative to developing an abiding relationship with God and gaining a deep understanding of His ways and will.
A Prayer of Blessing
David’s prayer recognizes the unchangeableness of God. He is the same God today as the One who delivered Israel from Egypt, who delivered David from Saul, who delivered Daniel from the den of lions, and who delivers us from sin and death. And, like David, all we need do is call upon His name.