praying effectively: Pray for the Word to Spread (2Thess. 3:1-5)

(2 Thessalonians 3:1-5)  Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you; 2 and that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not all have faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will continue to do what we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ. 

Reminder:  "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will.  When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!

It is God's will:

- that we pray for the persecuted Church and fellow believers to be rescued (3:2)

- that we pray for our spiritual leaders and missionaries (3:1)

- that we continue to do the Lord's will (3:4)

- that we pray for the word of the Lord to spread rapidly (3:1)

- that we pray for the Lord to be glorified (3:1)

Today's prayer:

Heavenly Father, Creator, King of kings, Lord of lords and Christ our Savior!!!  It is on this day that we focus on Your birth and worship You.  Thank You so much for humbling Yourself - to come to this earth - in flesh - to dwell among us in order to accomplish Your work on the cross.  Through Your death and resurrection, we are able to obtain Your forgiveness of sin, eternal life and hope, and an everlasting security of being Your child.

Help us not to take this for granted!  May we desire to be like You.  Guide us in everything we do and say, so that it glorifies You, and helps to spread the good news to all those around us.  May we be the salt of the earth.  May we be a light on a hill.  May the knowledge of You spread like wildfire. 

Guide our spiritual leaders and missionaries to handle Your word accurately, in Your love, strength, peace and unity.  Protect us from evil.  Give us Your courage, so we do not fear what man might do.  Help us to rest in Your almighty power.  You are the God of the impossible.  With You, all things are possible!!!  As You give us opportunities to serve You, help us trust in You to equip us as needed.  All to Your glory, amen.