WORD

1. Read through the first part of this prayer of Paul {Vv 15 - 19a}
   How would it make you feel to know that someone was praying that particular prayer for you?
2. We see in Paul's prayer here, as elsewhere, a sense of "constancy" and also "thankfulness". Without beating ourselves up too much about it, I'm sure we could all do better in both those areas - - but, what is the point of "thankfulness" in prayer if we're called to pray for others? {See also Phil 4:6, Col 3:15-17 and 1 Thes 5:18}
3. To what extent do you think that God's plans for the world are in the hands of the church?
4. How could you approach difficult situations you face differently, knowing that the "ultimate victory is won"?
5. If it's appropriate split into 2's or 3's and look back through the passage. Which part of Paul's prayer do you most need at this time? Pray for one another.