ADULT DISCIPLESHIP NEWS

“I’ll pray for you.” How often have I said this? Or been told this by someone? Yet, how often have I gone my way, forgetting about the promise?

It’s never intentional, but I’ve discovered that the words leap from my mouth in a rote response to a friend who has just relayed a difficulty or a desire in her life. It sometimes becomes a way to end a conversation, an “amen” to our intimate and heartfelt discussion.

I am sincere in my desire but don’t always follow through.

Later, as I speak to this friend again or come across her name, I am sad and discouraged to discover that my promise has gone unkept. I say a quick prayer, most often so that I can tell her, “Yes, I did pray for you.”

Prayer is important. Jesus prayed. The disciples prayed. We are told to pray unceasingly. And keeping promises is equally important. God never made a promise that he did not keep. Prayer can be an effective ministry, a way to serve and support others.

So, how do I remember the people and things that I’ve promised to pray for? Here are things things that have helped me:

1. Write it down. Keep a notebook for jotting down quick thoughts. The notes remind me that I’ve made a commitment and to follow through.
2. Do it immediately. Another way to keep my promise is to stop right then and pray with my friend. It is better not to make a promise than to make it and break it.
3. Be alarmed. Take a specific time to pray for those promised prayers.

By keeping my promises to pray, my prayer life becomes stronger - and so does my commitment to the people God brings into my life.