Paul: Finding Strength in Times of Hardship

By Layo Oladejo

Devotional Reading: Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 NLT

If someone were to study your prayers, what would they see? Would they see prayers from the heart or superficial words? Would they see intercession for others or a focus mainly on your own needs?

One of the things that stands out to me from Paul’s prayers is that he always prayed for the spiritual growth of the believers he shepherded more than for their material needs. That doesn’t mean we can’t ask God to provide for material needs, but our prayers should focus on spiritual needs and spiritual growth. The prayers of Paul model how to pray for others (and ourselves) in this way.

Paul wrote the second letter to the church at Thessalonica to encourage them in the midst of persecution for their faith. He didn’t ask God to remove them from their situation; he asked Him to comfort and strengthen them and give them peace. We don’t have to pray long (except when it is called for), elaborate prayers to pray effectively. These two short prayers of Paul are powerful.

Prayer and Confession
Father, I often pray for blessings for others. But remind me to also pray for their spiritual growth and strength through You as they go through challenges in life.

Further Reading: 2Thessalonians 2:16-17
Reading The Prophets: Jeremiah 31-35