What Is Last, Should Be First

Why do we wait until it is too late in many instances to act in a situation? Procrastination causes more issues than if we were to at least attempt to take care of matters ahead of time. I don't mean to portray a sense of being an overly controlling person. I do mean to picture the many of us who miss the opportunities to ward off or as the Western movies say, "Meet 'em at the pass" concerning potential problems in our lives.

As Christians, prayers to the Lord should not be a choice or option but the first and forever go-to in any situation. Why do you think the Lord and the Holy Spirit have the title/name Wonderful Counselor if they don't hear and answer our prayers. I certainly can testify to my Savior as my Wonderful Counselor.

The spear of the Roman soldier is the weapon that is alluded to in Ephesians 6:18-20 as pertaining to prayer. With all the other pieces of the Roman soldier's gear named and paired with a spiritual application, there was one piece not mentioned - the Roman spear - that by the process of elimination and common sense pairs perfectly with prayer.

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."

Notice five times prayer is emphasized here. This spear of prayer and supplication must be hurled at the enemy or circumstances as far in advance as possible before the problem reaches close quarters combat range.

For example, when we can foresee a layoff in our organization on the horizon, begin praying for the future. When you notice an increase in sickness in your area, immediately start praying for protection for you and healing for those that need it. Anything you can foresee or project that would be problematic, throw that long-distance spear of prayer and supplication for God to act on our behalf.

I have witnessed prayer often used as an emergency measure or after the damage as already been done, up close and personal - type measure. I encourage my fellow believers in Christ to be more proactive and jump ahead of life and the spiritual forces desiring to disturb God's favor in our's.

Matthew 6:33 records Jesus instructing us to "seek first the kingdom and His righteousness" and where there is a kingdom, there is a King to be inquired. David inquired of the Lord often as a great example of this and the Lord answered him. What a loving, caring and personal God!

Prayer is not only a heavenly, respectful language or communication to God - prayers are our bold call to action in faith to our all-powerful, all-knowing and ever-present God, to do what only He can do. So, throw that "spear". Don't save your prayers for last, begin with prayer. What Is Last, Should Be First.