Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:15; NIV).
I often beat myself up when I realise I’ve forgotten to pray for a particular person, situation, or cause. Paralysed by a combination of failure and guilt, it can seem too late to do so at that moment.
But from now on, as soon as the Spirit reminds me to pray about someone or something, I want to grasp the opportunity to intercede immediately, however brief and simple my prayer may need to be.
Then, having responded to the Spirit’s prompting, I will continue with whatever I’m doing. Depending on the complexity of the task, I may even be able to pray whilst I work.
I can respond like this multiple times each day, whenever the Spirit alerts me to a fresh opportunity to pray for each concern which comes into my mind and heart. With this approach, I find that my sense of failure and guilt is less burdensome.
I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity (1 Timothy 2:1-2; NLT).
References
Pray about everything (Philippians 4:6; NLT).
Pray for peace (Psalm 122:6; NLT).
Because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, “Abba, Father” (Galatians 4:6; NLT).
Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere (Ephesians 6:18; NLT).