Daily Devotional for Tuesday, May 27

Thanks for the Corinthians’ Gifts

“I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ…So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 1 Corinthians 1:4, 7

Intercessory prayer is a wonderful aspect of our relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Just think about it! We have the great privilege to go before Almighty God and ask for spiritual strength, help and healing on behalf of the brethren. It is an act of love and the absolute best thing we can do for one another. Even more than that, it pleases our Father in Heaven. The apostle Paul was a great example, as he faithfully prayed for the churches as can be seen in his epistles throughout the New Testament.

 It seems that prayers within the church are primarily focused on physical needs. Prayer requests are often centered on those that are sick, in the hospital, surgeries and recoveries. While these are important and needful to pray over, how much more do we need prayers for spiritual healing within our churches? Paul was focused on spiritual health and strengthening within the churches so that they would grow and be fruitful for the Lord. Although he had some tough issues to address with the church at Corinth, he started by being thankful to God for the grace and gifts given to the church there. He cared for them and their spiritual needs above all else.

Challenge yourself to pray for others consistently, both for their spiritual and physical needs. If you are not sure how to pray, see Colossians 1:9-14 for a beautiful example. You will not only be a blessing to others, but you will develop a sincere love and care for the brethren as the Lord intended for us to have within His churches.

REFLECTION

“We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you” 

(Colossians 1:3).

Darla Goodrum