I heard one man say that what we are currently experiencing in our life and ministry is the direct result of what we have or have not prayed about days, weeks, months or even years before. In other words, what we are currently experiencing or not experiencing in our lives, is to a great extent connected to our prayer life. That is why our individual prayer life is so important when it comes to discovering God’s plan for our lives.
Colossians 1:9 – Be assured that from the first day we heard of you, we haven’t stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to his will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works. (The Message Version)
I believe this prayer Paul prayed for the Christians in the Colossian church was inspired by the Holy Spirit. He prayed that they might fully discover God’s will for their lives. Christians today can pray this same way and can expect to know God’s complete will for their lives.
As we spend time praying about God’s plan and purpose for our lives, God begins to unfold or reveal what that plan is. I have found that God doesn’t always reveal His entire plan at one time, but gradually as we are faithful to obey Him in every stage of life and ministry.
Another very important part of prayer is to spend time waiting in God’s presence.
Acts 13:2 – “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.”
We can see as these men waited before the Lord, as they spent time in God’s presence, they received clear direction from the Holy Spirit concerning the plan of God for Saul and Barnabas.
During a time of transition, it is very important for us not to make decisions too quickly. A transition time can be a vulnerable time, a time when many different thoughts and suggestions come into our minds. That is why it is so important to take time to wait in the presence of the Lord, spend much time praying in other tongues, so that the Holy Spirit can give clear and concise direction to your spirit.
Remember, during a time of transition; spend time in the presence of the Lord. Give yourself to much prayer, especially praying in other tongues. As you quiet your mind and listen to the Holy Spirit, you will receive a witness in your spirit concerning the plan and purpose of God for your life.