Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Praying with Friends



Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6-7


Yesterday I went to brunch with one of my dear friends who took time out of her busy schedule to share it with me. She is one of my prayer pillars, whose thoughtfulness, kindness, love and knowledge of The Word make her into one of God’s wonderful instruments here on earth. 

Cindy and I met several years ago under rather interesting circumstances which are outside the scope of this post. The most interesting part is, however, that prayer brought us together. We held a few two-people, highly intense and eternally rewarding prayer meetings on selected Saturday afternoons a few years ago. Those were wonderful –informal times of praise and prayer within an attitude of worship and thanksgiving that allowed us to lift up to Him all our concerns, petitions and supplications. 

I remember the refreshing feeling I used to enjoy after our two-warrior gatherings. Yesterday, as I listened to her praying on my behalf, I was reminded of that at our “brunch fellowship.” And I was also reminded of the fact that not only the Holy Spirit prays and intercedes for us in Divine prayer when we can’t do it ourselves; but our sisters and brothers in Christ do it as well. (see The Holy Communicator)

My friend prayed over a pretty comprehensive list of requests for my life which astonished me since she mentioned things I had pushed to the back of my mind by now due to other items making their way to the top. She showed me that in her caring nature, she remembers my needs in ways that even I cannot. 

It was very moving and I didn’t have words to express my gratitude in person. As I came back home in the afternoon, I knew that God had arranged for our meeting yesterday and that His hand was upon us as we shared together in His presence. He was sitting with us in our rustic booth at that humble dinner. 

I thought many times that I should pray for her concerns as well, but the words just wouldn’t come out of my mouth. As the Lord joined us in our private gathering; however, He touched Cindy to utter the words and minister to me in my moment of pressing need. I felt selfish on my part, but then I realized that as God arranged this meeting, He had a plan and the same way, He will arrange for another one where the plan will be different. We are never exhaustive in prayer. Prayer renews itself every time; hence, the command to praying without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5: 17). We are to lift each other up, always, non-stop, with prayer, praise, petition and thanksgiving so the gentle breeze of peace which comes out of nowhere, can sooth our weary souls…and for that, I am most grateful.

Linking with:  Whole Hearted Home and Little R and R

6 comments:

  1. God is bigger than all our doubts, fears, worries and cares. He comes to us in ways we can't even imagine. Praying for you and your family Gisela.

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    1. Thank you June for your kind words. He is bigger, indeed...we just have to remember it : ) Sometimes I get so caught up in my worries that I miss how deep and wide and profound His love is.

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  2. This was a wonderful encouragement to me today. So glad I stopped by! God is so faithful to place those within our lives who will be exactly who and what we need. Iron sharpens iron. I feel sure that you minister to your dear friend in much the same ways as she ministers to you. She undoubtedly left your meeting as renewed and refreshed as you did. Isn't that wonderful? I so appreciate you and your blog. I always leave here encouraged and uplifted and somehow comforted in finding a kindred spirit. I am praying for you. Love, Cheryl

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    1. Thank you so much Cheryl! You are most kind and your words are most appreciated. You are right, I never thought of it that way...the Lord's plan is perfect and it works in every direction, so as I was ministered to that morning, my friend was ministered to by our Lord Himself as well...what a marvelous thought! Thank you so much for giving me that perspective. Blessings to you always!

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  3. I always love visiting you, Gisela.

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    1. And I am truly grateful for your visits! and for hosting your linkup. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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