The DNA of a disciple
It is intrinsic to the DNA of a disciple of Jesus to have a close and familiar relationship with God through prayer. Notably, the first thing we read about Paul after his conversion is: "Behold, he is praying." (Acts 9:11)
Throughout his letters, Paul consistently emphasizes the significance of prayer in his own life and in the lives of those to whom he writes. Here are some examples:
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2: "Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you, and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men. For not all have faith."
Philippians 4:6-7: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Colossians 4:2-4: "Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison—that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak."
1 Timothy 2:1-4: "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."
Such statements come from someone deeply aware of how worthy God is of praise and how dependent we are on His assistance in our lives and service to Him. It seems that we Christians, especially in the Western world, often lack this attitude. Otherwise, our prayer lives might look quite different.
But what exactly is behind this attitude observed in Paul? I was particularly struck by 1 Peter 5:6-7, which states: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." This verse teaches us that we humble ourselves by casting all our anxieties on God. Therefore, when we pray, we are demonstrating humility.
Conversely, when we do not pray, we exhibit pride, essentially expressing: "I don't need God." Our prayer life reveals whether we possess the mindset of Jesus or not. This is why Jesus says in Matthew 11:29: "Learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart." Paul exemplified humility, which is why he emphasized the importance of prayer for himself and others.
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