Our devotional series in Paul’s prayers continues.
1 Thessalonians 3:9-10 How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you? 10Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith.
Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians are rich with short prayers. Part of the reason is that Paul had such a brief intense time ministering in their city (Acts 17:1-14). Here Paul (again!) gives thanks for them. Apparently he rejoices in the presence of God because of them! Can you think of anyone whose life, love or character would cause you to go before God and rejoice! I can think of a few.
Then, unusually, he reports a prayer for himself – he (and Timothy, apparently) are praying day and night that they might visit the church again. Timothy has just returned from Thessalonica with an encouraging report, but it made Paul want to go back and build up the church at Thessalonica in their faith.
So when Paul prays for himself, he prays that he might have the opportunity to serve Jesus, to minister in a specific situation which captures his heart. How does this compare to your prayers for yourself?
Ran across a pretty good (similar) prayer Here I Am, Send Me, by Matt Papa. Based more directly, of course, on Isaiah 6.
