Read carefully Paul’s words in reference to the church at Philippi: I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now (Philippians 1:3-5).
Look at those words, making my prayer with joy. Is prayer a joy in your life? Do you have a joy-filled time praying? In others words, is praying a happy time for you? Is it a time of rejoicing, praise, thanksgiving, and sweet communion with your Heavenly Father?
If you pray in the power of the Spirit (Romans 8:26; Ephesians 6:18; Jude 20), you will be praying with joy because it is a fruit of the Spirit.
For many, prayer is a burden, a drudgery, and/or a duty. May I encourage you today to find a place to meet with God and enjoy His presence?
- Praise Him for Who He is and thank Him for how He has shown His character to you through answered prayer. (Psalm 145:3)
- Thank Him for what He taught you in His Word. (Psalm 19:7-11)
- Rejoice in a promise that He has shown you; that you can hang onto today. (Matthew 7:7-11)
- Sing to Him. (Psalm 96:1)
- Raise your hands in adoration and submission to Him. (1 Timothy 2:8)
- Thank God in advance for how He is going to answer prayer, save souls, lead you through the day, give wisdom and grace,
I believe if you will make prayer with joy this morning, it will set your day to be one of joy and blessing. Try it! (Philippians 4:4-7)
From A Pastor's Heart 