The Apostle
exhorted the Philippians to “Pray with thanksgiving…” Sometimes our prayers are weighted toward
petitions or intercession, while expressions of gratitude are reserved only for
those times when we realize a prayer has indeed been answered.
I believe we
are to begin and end all prayers with words of gratefulness. We thank God for allowing us to come boldly
before His presence. We thank Him for
answering our prayers before we actually see any evidence in response from
God. Finally, we thank Him for the time
and attention He has allotted us in our engagement with Him.
I believe
such an approach to prayer will nurture a grateful, reliant and trusting frame
of mind and heart. The Lord’s timing,
ways and answers may not be what we had in mind, but we will come to realize
that our Father knows best because He loves us with an unfailing love that
cannot be denied.
