When U Pray

“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31–32, NIV)  

Once again, we find ourselves asking: how is Satan in the room? And did y’all see that Jesus said He would pray for us? I’ve seen that scripture over and over, but as I have been studying more of the Word, it keeps showing me Jesus’s heart.

As I read more of the Bible, I’m finding that Satan often talked to God. So that leads me to think: if Satan can make time for God, why can’t I?

“Then Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” (Luke 18:1, NIV)  

It is written that we should pray—that’s where we go to God with our petitions and make our requests known, so He can hear us and prepare the blessings He has for us. Prayer allows us to talk to God, and fasting allows us to hear from Him. We should do both: fast and pray.

But there is more.

The Bible says that Satan is a liar, a thief, and a destroyer, and his goals are to kill, steal, and destroy. The Bible also reminds us often that Satan is always looking for someone to devour, roaming about like a lion. That sounds intense, doesn’t it? But what does that look like in real life? Jesus acknowledged to Simon Peter that Satan had asked God to sift the disciples—that means to tear them down, right? Or shake them up in their faith? But did y’all see what Jesus said next? The enemy wants to send destruction into your life. Y’all know the destructors:

– Infidelity

– Lack of education

– Lack of funds

– No employment or underemployment

– Children at risk

– Aging parents

– Lack of affordable housing

– Mental health concerns

And that’s just to name a few.

Then, there is the good news:

“But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31–32, NIV)

A hallelujah goes right there! Jesus Himself is praying for us. It brings to mind the scripture that says the suffering of today doesn’t compare to what we will receive. What we go through will make us better and stronger to help our brothers.

“We have sufferings now, but these are nothing compared to the great glory that will be given to us. Everything that God made is waiting with excitement for the time when He will show the world who His children are. The whole world wants very much for that to happen.” (Romans 8:18–19, ERV)  

Having a relationship with Jesus is life-changing. We’re talking about a Savior who gave up His life for us and continues to intercede even after death. If you are reading this: never give up, never give in, but always pray.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6, NIV)  

Lastly, He said: “And when you come back, strengthen your brothers.”

Why you ask? Because we are only as strong as our weakest link.

“And I pray that you and all God’s holy people will have the power to understand the greatness of Christ’s love—how wide, how long, how high, and how deep that love is. Christ’s love is greater than anyone can ever know, but I pray that you will be able to know that love. Then you can be filled with everything God has for you. With God’s power working in us, He can do much, much more than anything we can ask or think of.” (Ephesians 3:18–20, ERV)