May 14, 2016: SOAP #2354: 1Chronicles 22-24; 1Thessalonians 3

Scripture: 1Thessalonians (NIV) 3:11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus clear the way for us to come to you. 12 May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.

Observation: How does Paul pray for those he loves? He prays that he will have opportunity to visit them again. He prays that they will love others as he loves them. He prays not for them to have it easy, but for them to be strong. He prays not for blessing in this present life, but right standing with God when Jesus comes for them.

Application: So often my prayers for those I love is for things to go well in this life. I desire for them a pain free, trouble free life. I could be praying for their eternal life which will never end, but I only pray for this present life which will soon end. Hmmm.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, remind me to pray with eternity in view. Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!