"PASSION IN PRAYER
Prayer is so essential to our life that, for me, it would be likened in importance to the air we breathe because, when we don't pray, it's like holding your breath. It's uncomfortable, it hurts, and you never get anything done because you're so preoccupied with how blue your face must be and how much your lungs hurt.
II Chronicles 20 suggests that true prayer is based on faith, filled with passion, answered by God, and rewarded with joy.
Faith is essential to prayer because spiritual victories don't come from looking at the trial you face, but looking to the God you serve. Even the Lord's Prayer has its focus in God our Father. Faith produces victory and strength because, when you're tempted to quit, you can thank God for His strength. And when you are enjoying a day of blessing, you can thank Him for His goodness. And when you face the enemy's challenge, you can stand on the promises of God.
Prayer is filled with passion. I've heard the Lord say, 'Yes;' I've heard the Lord say, 'No;' and I've heard the Lord say, 'Not Yet.' Passion in prayer suggests having a praying-without-ceasing heart and invoking all kinds of prayer. Some fall on their face, some get on their knees, others agonize, raise their hands, bow their heads, and fold their hands. Some pray publicly, others privately, some bring requests, others offer petitions and thanks. Sometimes prayer is deliberate; other times it's spontaneous. But at all times, it's to be with a deep passion to talk to our Father and have Him talk to us.
Prayer is answered by God. I Peter 4:7 says, 'Be sober and watch unto prayer.' Praying people make it their business to watch and see what's happening in the world, the church, and with their children, family, and loved ones. So watch and pray. Jesus knew what was happening in Peter's life, and He prayed for him. (Luke 22:31,32). What a pattern for us to follow. Sometimes when I pray, I bring my prayer list and just say, 'Lord, here's the list. You already know what's on it, so You do what You think is the most necessary.' Paul says, 'I prayed with tears for you,' which is a constant reminder of the privilege we have of losing ourselves in prayer for others.
Finally, true prayer is rewarded with joy. One of the rewards of prayer is you never worry. Being consumed by the needs of others brings joy and gladness to the heart. Daniel prayed for others and God delivered him. Paul prayed for others and God delivered him.
Prayer really isn't work; it's a privilege. Prayer isn't drudgery, it's a divine assignment. There is no greater joy than praying through and experiencing the reward of God's delivering, almighty hand.
Ron Mehl"