Pineapple Prayers

Pineapple Prayers

4:17

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people,” 1Timothy 2:1, NIV.

“Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective,” James 5:16, NIV.

Praying for others can seem like a task and a duty at times. We carry a list, mentally or tangibly that we recite with familiar ease. These prayers are so familiar in fact there are times where our minds drift as we recall the words on our paper, because they have been on our list for months. Prayers like "I need a job." "I am looking for a place to live." "I need help to stop gossiping."

Sometimes we might think, are my prayers having any impact? Does God even hear me? Have these prayers been answered?

And yet we continue to pray with discouraging faith that nothing will change.

One problem might be, many of us ask for prayer, then forget to tell those who have been praying, that God has answered. This follow up can be of great encouragement to those who have been praying. Let us also remember, we also can always follow up and ask— “How are things going with you?”

We know prayer matters, so we continue.

Some prayers, however, tend to grab our attention. These are prayers we have endearingly called “Pineapple Prayer.” These are prayers our Life Group came up with when there’s a bit of an urgency, but no time to explain. Just text “pineapple,” and we know to put down our pens, sandwiches, tea or coffee, and pray.

We trust God that He knows what’s going on, and that He will intercede on behalf for our loved one.

A pineapple prayer might look something like this:

Father,

You are a good and faithful God. You desire for us to have success in following and obeying You. Your daughter is asking for prayer today, yet I know no details. Does that matter? No, because You know all.

So I ask, if she is being tempted, fill her with Your power to overcome.

If she is struggling, that You meet her need with comfort and grace.

If she is anxious or worried, that You draw near to her, as she leans into You. Help her to cast off anything that prevents her growth in You or obedience to build Your kingdom.

In the powerful name of our Savior, Jesus.

Amen.

How are you doing today? Do you need a pineapple prayer? Please reach out to those who will pray for you, it does make a difference.

If you don’t have anyone, please reach out here. We would love to pray a covering of God’s goodness and mercy over you.

Just put “Pineapple” in the comment box below.

Father,

Watch over Your children. Help us to pray for one another with the intent to draw them closer to You.

Guide us on our paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake and teach us to follow You well.

We love You,

Amen.