A Prayer Chain
A prayer chain is when some believers receive a written prayer with an invitation to pass it or copies of it to others, so that the prayer may be offered on a continual basis before the throne of God in heaven. A prayer chain may be carried out by a group of members in a church or any religious organization. The unity of the members on praying for a specific cause reveals dedicated purpose and perseverance in accordance to God’s will as shown in Christ’s parable of the widow and the unjust judge (Luke 18:1-8).
In a prayer chain, believers should approach the Lord with faith that He will fulfill His promise: “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14). In this verse, there is one condition that the members’ petitions should be in harmony with His will. Elsewhere, other conditions are given—asking in Christ’s name (John 14:13; 16:23), agreement among brethren (Matthew 18:19), faith (Mark 11:24), and keeping God’s commandments (1 John 3:22).
Kinds of Prayer Chains
Some prayer chains originate with telephone calls. Others are shared through emails or phone texts. Still, some may prefer to use the internet or social media pages to start their prayer chains. Whatever method is used, we can be sure that God listens to the requests of His children. For He promised, “And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son” (John 14:13).
As God’s children cooperate with Heaven in the promulgation of the gospel, they can rest assured that the boundless resources of the Omnipotence are at their disposal. God will supply their every need and honor their petitions lodged before the throne in the name of Jesus according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).
Self-Preparation for Prayer
A prayer chain should be always accompanied first by a spirit of forgiveness and love to others. The Bible says, “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). Also, prayers should be offered to God with a spirit of thanksgiving and praise to His goodness and mercy (Colossians 4:2). For thanksgiving” reminds the supplicants in a prayer chain of past divine gifts and prepares the souls to receive future blessings.
Rest in God
After lifting up the request in a prayer chain, believers should rest in God and trust that He will work out everything according to His good will (Romans 8:28). Paul wrote, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7). Such peace is built on faith in God and a personal knowledge of His power and love. This amazing peace is God’s reward to those who have a prayer-filled life (Philippians 4:6).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
