How often do we hear about the needs of another and say that we will pray for them? It’s a common occurrence in the life of every Christian. We know the best thing we can do for someone struggling is to pray. When friends are going through a rough period, we might pray for weeks to intercede on their behalf. It’s one of the beautiful things about the body of Christ. We love to pray for each other.
Did you ever stop and consider how most of our prayers are reactive rather than proactive? How often do we pray for the spiritual vitality of our fellow believers? How often do we pray for their strength to endure persecution and trials before they occur? I am convinced we need to be praying proactive prayers for ourselves and others. I’m also convinced we don’t do it enough.
When we pray for others, our prayers are unselfish by nature, but they still might focus too much on things of this world rather than on spiritual matters. We pray for job promotions, house closings, relationships, and so many other things that have little to do with the spiritual health of a person. When a physical challenge or financial need arises, we ramp up our prayers even more. While we are good about praying for the temporal things, we often neglect praying for the weightier eternal blessings. Proactive prayers might help the person avoid the dire situation they’re facing in the first place!
Proactive prayers are not only for friends and family. We should pray this way for our needs as well. Jesus modeled praying proactively when He taught us to pray: “Lead us not into temptation” (Matthew 6:9-13). That’s not a prayer for deliverance from the consequences of sin, but a proactive prayer to keep us from ever entertaining such sin. Ask the Lord to build your strength and courage so will stand firm when trials come (James 1:12). Pray for more knowledge of Him and a deeper love for Him. Before you roll out of bed, request that He will give you eyes to see people as He sees them today. Don’t wait to see what happens before you pull the ripcord of prayer. Pray in advance that you will be ready for whatever comes.
Praying for the needs of others is a wonderful thing. Paul taught we should carry the burdens of each other (Galatians 6:2). So, don’t neglect to pray for the existing needs of others, but pray proactive prayers as well. Pray for their spiritual protection. Pray they will resist temptation and grow strong in Christ. Of course, pray the same things for yourself. Don’t get so caught up in praying about the temporal challenges in this world that you neglect to pray for the spiritual growth of yourself and others.
Don’t spend all your time praying in a reactive manner. Instead, let the majority of your prayers be proactive prayers. Praying for the strength to flee temptation, to love as Jesus loves, and to only engage in conversations and activities that bring Him glory will keep you out of many of those situations that would put you in desperate need of the prayers of others! When you pray, pray proactive prayers to strengthen and guide you to live a life wholly devoted to Christ.