APRIL 27

James 5:13-20

YOU MUST PRAY (I)

To the Christian, praying is like breathing. If we do not breathe, we suffocate and eventually die. If we do not pray, we also suffocate in the spiritual sense. And if someone who calls himself a Christian does not pray at all, he may not be one in the first place. A Christian must pray, and must like to pray!

When we pray, we talk to God. We thank God for the many blessings He has showered on us. We seek God’s forgiveness when we confess our sins. We ask God to help us in times of need and sadness. We ask God to direct our ways when we are not sure of what to do. By praying to God, it shows that we cannot do anything without Him.

Did you know how a Christian’s life is tied to God? Fill in the blanks to see how Jesus describes it: "I am the __________, ye are the __________; He that __________ in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much __________; for __________ me ye can do __________" ( John 15:5).

There is a story of a queen of Holland who believed that the strongest army to defend the country would be a praying one. Once, she paid a visit to an army unit. The soldiers were lined up in front of her.She asked,"Which of you pray?" All eyes were on the queen; no one had expected this question. They could fight, gamble and swear, but pray? There was a long silence until 8 young soldiers raised their hands. The queen spoke again, "Such soldiers can defend our country. They are worth more than the others."

Learn from this,children – the queen had asked,"Which of you pray?"
She did not ask, "Who can fight well?" or "Who is brave?"

This story reminds us that indeed, as Christian soldiers, we must pray.

Thought: How often do you pray?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the privilege of praying and for hearing us.Teach me to be a praying Christian. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.