Monday; January 9

It appears that prayer is cool again. It has been interesting to watch society react to Damar Hamlin’s medical emergency during last week’s NFL game. In front of millions of onlookers Hamlin collapsed on the field and had to be revived by the medical staff. While this has been a feel-good story, I have been impressed by how people have been unashamed to pray in public for the young athlete. From community members to the media to religious leaders and sports fans, a lot of people have been publicly praying for him. I am grateful for the spiritual outpouring that has been shown and the way that it has been done in public!

While I am excited about the way prayer is making its way back into the spotlight, I think it is important to make sure we are making the most out of the opportunities. Public prayer is good, powerful prayer is better! So how do we take the next step to more powerful prayer? The New Testament writer, James, told the disciples of his day, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” (James 5:16). The answer to more powerful prayer is in pairing righteousness with our requests. Speaking the words and expressing the thoughts are important, but living a righteous lifestyle can enhance what is being said.

Let’s continue to pray for Damar (and others) but let’s make the most out of our opportunity by living good lives. The Lord is listening to our pleas – but He is also watching our lives.

Think About It!

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