“And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us”
1 John 5:14, ESV
The past six weeks have been pretty brutal for the Aslin family health-wise. And there’s a simple explanation for this - we have two little ones in preschool whose immune systems aren’t yet built up to the point where they aren’t susceptible to literally every germ (there’s also the fact that little kids can’t not touch everything and then put their hands in their mouths!). And, judging by the fact that the preschool just closed for the week to give all the kiddos and teachers a chance to recover, I don’t think we’re alone in this cycle.
And yet through this and through several other recent health situations I have been reminded of the power of prayer.
Throughout Scripture, God is constantly reminding his people to pray. He’s a God that simultaneously holds the universe in his hand and also hears and responds to the faithful prayers of his people. The apostle Paul encourages the church in Thessalonica to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-17). Time and time again, Paul writes about people he is praying for. Jesus gives us instructions and a model for prayer in his Sermon on the Mount.
And this week I was reminded of the power of prayer. As sickness worked its way through my household - my son and I were both down for the count and I had a work trip Monday morning - my prayers turned to my daughter and wife. I believe God kept them healthy from an otherwise incredibly contagious illness. But even if he hadn’t (or doesn’t - verdict is still out), he is still good and he still hears.
Action: Spent time in prayer this week. Spend time listening to God, reflecting on his goodness. What is something you are asking God to do in your life? Share this request with others.