The Power of Prayer

In Daily Devotional by Paul Fraser

Theme of the Week: Living Victoriously

Bible Verse: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 6:18

I’m no drywaller. I am also not an electrician, but I do know this: For something to carry power, it must be connected to a power source. So, when we think of living victoriously, it starts and ends with Jesus – He is our continual source.

One of the best ways we can stay connected to Jesus is through prayer. Of course, it’s not the only way to connect with Him, but it’s one way that Jesus Himself modeled for us, so it’s worth doing. We say there is power in prayer, but that’s not really true.

Hold on…before you start throwing stones at me, let me explain. The power comes from the One we pray to, not the prayer itself. Prayer is the wiring or conduit that the power of Jesus flows through. The power is found, not in our words, but through the WORD, Jesus Himself.

I think Paul the Apostle knew about victorious living. I love the advice Paul gives to the church in Thessalonica, advice that he has personally lived out on many different occasions: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:16-18 NIV). Lots can be said on rejoicing in trials and being thankful in all circumstances, but the two words I want us to zero in on today are “pray continually.” If prayer keeps us connected to our Source, why not pray continually?

My dad used to talk about hearing a sermon from a missionary to India many decades ago. The missionary stated that, when it comes to prayer, “I don’t remember ever praying for an hour straight, but I also don’t ever remember going an hour without praying.” That’s someone who gets it—staying connected means praying continually.

They don’t have to be long prayers. In fact, sometimes it might be just two words. “Thanks Jesus!” “Help me.” “Guide me.” “Encourage them.” God is near and He hears when we call on His name.

Prayer: Thank you, Jesus! You are the source of my victory. I can do nothing without you. Please help me grow in my prayer life. I want to know You and Your will more and more each day. I rest in Your strength, power, promises and goodness today.

Reflection: What would it look for you to pray continually? How can you ensure you remember to pray?


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About
Paul Fraser
Paul is currently serving as the National Church Multiplication Coordinator for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been in full-time ministry for 23 years. Reaching people far from God, church multiplication and the next generation are his ministry passions. Paul believes the best days are still ahead for advancing God’s Kingdom in Canada and that we all have a part to play.
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Paul Fraser
Paul is currently serving as the National Church Multiplication Coordinator for the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. He has been in full-time ministry for 23 years. Reaching people far from God, church multiplication and the next generation are his ministry passions. Paul believes the best days are still ahead for advancing God’s Kingdom in Canada and that we all have a part to play.