One of the major concerns I have as a Leader of a Prayer Ministry is that prayer meetings can foster gossip sessions. Oh, it isn’t done deliberately but we humans have a strong streak of nosiness! I believe it is a tool used by satan to destroy Prayer Ministries and can cause people to turn away from requesting prayer from other Christians.
I recently read an article about this topic written by a minister and he pointed out that we do not need to know all the details in order to pray for others. God already knows everything and all we need to do is lift up the person or the situation. Why do we think we need specific information in order to be intercessory prayers?
God desires that we pray for others out of a pure heart and this means we each need to take a look at ourselves and our motives for praying for others. If needed, ask God to remove any curiosity from your heart and focus on the prayers; he will take care of the rest.
“The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” James 5:16b
[...] Excerpted from:Prayer or gossip? [...]
Jackie,
I want to thank ALL of our folks in TTUMC that have prayed for my sister, and now us as we adjust to her being in a much better place with the Lord.
If someone wish’s to gossip about me, let them do so, as they would be leaveing another alone. I have only the Lord God to answer to.
You are such a blessing to us all, THANKS for all you do!!!!!!
I like the idea of asking God to remove any sense of curiosity from my heart. I think that prayer will be very helpful.
I know that sometimes details that show the seriousness of the situation urge us to pray more fervently. And sometimes I want details so I will know how much I need to worry. I just need to keep reminding myself…do not worry, but in everything by prayer and supplication make your requests know to God.
Susan Jane