Prepared for War

  The New River Worship Team and I meet for prayer prior to our Sunday service. There are occasions when members of the group share a prayer request for themselves, for a family member or for one of their friends. I was reminded of a very important principle as we gathered for our time of prayer on Sunday. Two of the team members spoke of serious situations which either involved their family or a friend. Each of these situations needed someone who not only believed in the power of prayer but would also exhibit concern and compassion. These requests would require more than a casual prayer and more than a spiritual "tip of the hat" regarding the challenge that the individuals were facing. During prayer today I was reminded of the attitude that Jesus took toward people in need. The Bible declares that "Jesus was moved with compassion" as He observed the people around Him. I understand this to mean that Jesus felt this compassion from deep within His soul. It was more than a casual glance at the problem. It was more than a surface reaction that appeared for a brief moment and then disappeared. It was more than a religious act of kindness on His part. No, it was a true sense of empathy and heartfelt concern for those in need. Needless to say I was challenged to pray with compassion and not just with rehearsed words that I have used throughout my journey with Christ. Do we pray with a heart that is consumed with compassion? Do we pray with true concern for those requests that have been shared with us? Do we pray with faith and fervor as we intercede for others? When you pray always remember that there will come a day and time that you will be the person sharing the request.