Mercy Prayers

A sweet friend turned me onto this website for prayer. I just read yesterday's lesson tonight, and it spoke multitudes to me. As I think of those around me suffering in ways I cannot fathom and those unaware of the consequence of their actions, I'm often too quick to judge. What a blessing to be reminded that God has the perfect and complete answer for every situation both in and out of our control! I thank Him now for sweet prayers of mercy and prayers of hope that He will hear and do as He sees fit.

Prayers of Mercy
Posted: 09 Jun 2009 01:01 AM PDT
by Katherine Kehler

“…but God, being rich in mercy…” Ephesians 2:4

Not long ago, I was looking through my library and noticed a book I had read several years ago. It was a compilation of the best writings of Catherine Marshall. I decided to re-read them and God used one of the articles to teach me about “mercy” prayers.
Often we forget that God’s love is unlimited. When we notice weaknesses in the lives of people we live or work with, we can become impatient. We wonder why they don’t apply the Biblical truths that would surely help them live more consistently. We pray for them (maybe) but seldom do we remember God’s mercy and grace.
After reading Catherine Marshall’s book, I began to pray “mercy” prayers. Just a simple prayer like, “Lord, have mercy on ________.” Many times we don’t even know how to pray, we just know something is not right. But God, who knows all things, knows exactly what the situation is. When we pray, “Lord have mercy,” He will intervene and answer our prayer in the best possible way.
For years I prayed for two wonderful, little girls who were not being raised in the ways of the Lord. Many nights, I would pray, “Lord have mercy on those two little girls, they didn’t ask to be brought into the world.”
Then things began to change - God had mercy on them. Today, through amazing circumstances, their mother is following Jesus, they are living in a stable environment and the girls are lavished with love. God cares and loved them more then I could possibly imagine.
I encourage you to begin praying “mercy” prayers when you notice problems in people’s lives - it so much better than being judgmental or critical.
Lord Jesus, You’re loving and Your mercy endures forever. Even though our own love is often so shallow, when we intercede for Your mercy on the lives you bring across our path, You will answer. Thank You so much! Amen.

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