Prayer Week 2

In this morning's class, we looked at 1 Thessalonians 5:16 - 25.

Rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

Do not quench the Spirit.  Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, and reject every kind of evil.

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.  May your whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.  The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. 

“The Christian life is characterized by the constant, active expression of joy in the Lord—the crucified and risen Lord Jesus. This rejoicing isn’t mainly an emotional high or good feeling. Rather, it means finding our souls satisfied in knowing the one true God and taking pleasure in experiencing His good gifts. It’s noteworthy that Paul addresses believers in Thessalonica that have experienced significant adversity.” [D. A. Carson (2014). Praying with Paul Bible - Study Guide. LifeWay Press.]

Prayer for ministries and the work of the church usually focuses on increased numbers and a smooth event.  However, the primary focus should be on spiritual growth and sanctification.

Guaranteed Prayers that will be answered: 

Prayers that focus on the glory of God and the growth of believers.

This morning's note page had 12 Reasons You Should Pray Scripture by Andrew Neselli
Here is the article that contains a more detailed explanation of each of the points -  www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/12-reasons-you-should-pray-scripture/