Written by Pastor Jack Wellman– Martin Lloyd-Jones
Praying on Impulse
I am not saying that we live impulsively but that if we feel an impulse to pray, then be sure to pray. Even if you have to do it silently, pray, no matter how inconvenient it is. I have had instances when someone prayed for me at a specific time; and even though they didn’t know it, I needed their prayers at the very moment they prayed! I have heard of many other such circumstances. Even if you’re wrong, prayer is never a waste, either by impulse or by design.
Praying Always
The Apostle Paul tells us to do something that sounds humanly impossible, as he writes that we should be “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints” (Ephesians 6:18). Seriously Paul? Pray at all times? Well, sort of. At least we’re to be “praying at all times in the Spirit,” meaning the Holy Spirit. When we pray, the Spirit can really help us when we’re at a loss for words (Romans 8:26-27).
The Third Watch
Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night and couldn’t sleep? Sometimes I use those times to pray for someone who comes to mind. I don’t know how that works; but, again, they often needed the prayers and I was able to go back to sleep. It’s been my experience that when I can’t sleep, I can pray; and when I pray, it seems I can sleep. Thank you God. How marvelous are His ways!
Conclusion
I do agree with Martin Lloyd-Jones, who said, “Always respond to every impulse to pray.” God may be prompting you to pray for someone, so don’t resist it. Then again, someone may just be praying for you; and you wouldn’t want them to resist the impulse to pray, would you?
