“Who is like your people Israel, the one nation on earth whom God went to redeem to be his people, making himself a name and doing for them great and awesome things.” 2 Samuel 7:23
Prayer opens a window on a wider world. And while prayer is always personal, the best prayer is always more than personal.
Reflecting on the past blessings, future promises, and inexplicable grace of God in your life will bring to mind the needs and blessings of others. Others who have shared the same blessings may come to mind. That is the significance of David rejoicing in the blessings given to Israel, God’s own people.
But others who have not enjoyed the blessings given to you may also come to mind. That is the significance of 2 Samuel 7:19, where David says that the promise of God’s blessing is “instruction for mankind.” Or, as Dr. Walt Kaiser translates this, “for the benefit of mankind.” The promise of the Messiah, and all the good that is found in him, is for all people, including those who have not yet found the blessing that David already enjoyed.
Prayer begins with reflecting on God’s grace to you, but it does not end there. When you draw near to God in prayer, open your heart to the needs and blessings of others.
Take some time to rejoice in the blessings of others and remember the needs of others in prayer today.
