Eric Reece
In recent months, I have felt it necessary to spend more time in prayer.
Whether it is the state of things in society – or the constant concern for people who are in my heart – I have appreciated the words of the Apostle who wrote, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
An old saint was once asked how often we should pray. They responded, “I’m praying right now.” It was a reminder to have God constantly in our heart and mind – just as we have those we are concerned about in our hearts and minds.
It is a privilege to pray for people. It should not, but it still amazes me when prayers are answered. It gives me the opportunity to pray again in gratitude for the prayers answered. If anyone benefits from prayer, it is definitely the one who prays. I agree with the statement the theologian Kierkegaard made, “Prayer does not change God, but it changes the one who prays.”
A friend gave me a book that listed all the prayers in the Bible. Down the list is recorded the three prayers of King Hezekiah.
His first prayer was when the nation of Assyria attacked Judah and besieged Jerusalem.
Hezekiah’s prayer for deliverance and safety was heard by God and confirmed by Isaiah and the Assyrians withdrew in 2 Kings 19:14-19.
Hezekiah’s second prayer was personal, as he became gravely ill and was not expected to survive. He was not ready to die. He wept and prayed to God for healing.
God heard his prayer and added 15 years to his life.
Right away – after receiving news from Isaiah that God was healing him – Hezekiah’s third prayer was one of praise and gratitude to God for his healing, Isaiah 38:9-20. His closing words were, “The Lord will save me, and we will sing to stringed instruments all the days of our life, at the house of the Lord.”
Hezekiah was known for his piety and faithfulness to God. His life is a reminder that God hears and answers prayers.
A number of times, I have run across a prayer attributed to a soldier killed in battle during the American Civil War. The prayer found on his body is worthy of our attention.
“I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.
I was made weak, that I might learn humbly how to obey.
I asked for health, that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.
I asked for riches, that I might be happy.
I was given poverty, that I might be wise.
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.
I got nothing that I asked for – but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.”
Whatever your beliefs on prayer, I hope you will join in prayer for peace in the world and the hearts of all people.
Eric Reece is the faith columnist for The Graham Star. He is pastor of Robbinsville United Methodist Church and can be reached via email, ereece@wnccumc.net.