The Lord used the apostle Paul, a man who had temptations and struggles like we experience and formed him into an example of what Christ could do for someone who referred to themselves as the “chief of sinners.” Paul’s conversion took place on the road to Damascus where the risen Christ appeared to him in a heavenly vision. After this encounter, Paul was converted to Christianity, but had been blinded by the heavenly light. Jesus instructed Ananias to go to Paul and place his hands on him to restore his sight and told Ananias that, “he [Paul] was praying.” Prayer became the central aspect of Paul’s life. The heavenly vision that brought him to his knees, ruled his life from that moment on. Paul’s example of humility and complete dependence on God was exhibited in his intense and successful prayer life. This is a biblical pattern we can learn from and practice in our everyday life.
Prayer Tip # 32 – Pray With Sincerity
So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the
house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying.
Acts 9:11
I [Paul] do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.
Ephesians 1:16
“Paul’s requests for prayer are no less instructive than his own prayers for the saints. They show that he does not count prayer a special prerogative of an apostle; he invites the humblest and simplest believer to claim his right. They prove that he doesn’t think only the new converts or weak Christians need prayer; he himself, as a member of the body, is dependent upon his brethren and their prayers.”- Andrew Murray (Pastor and author, 1828-1917).
Prayer Points – (Pray over these requests):
Help us to yield more fully to God’s method of holiness.
May we realize that Christ is always present with us.
We ask that we learn to pray without ceasing.
Please develop spiritual fervor in us as we pray for the saints and their needs.
Dear Lord, I humbly bow in adoration as I praise You for Your divine love. I commit to completely yield to Your way of holiness and growth by acknowledging that Christ is always with me. May I have a divine awareness of Your power and pray always and in every circumstance.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.