If you asked a large number of people ‘Do you wish you were alone all the time?’ the vast majority of people would answer no. Most people agree that life is better when it’s shared with others. God demonstrated this shortly after creating Adam. God states in Genesis 2:18, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Did you know being with others is a good practice when it comes to prayer? I know the thought may be slightly foreign, but the truth is, Christians should pray together and often.
In the early church, they consistently gathered and earnestly prayed together. Two examples are found in Acts.
- They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. Acts 1:14
- On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and the elders had said to them. When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God… After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. Acts 4:23-31
The early church made it a habit to pray together and it’s a habit we should get into ourselves. Below are three reasons why.
1. There’s power and strength in numbers
Matthew 18:20 says, Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.
This verse doesn’t mean that God isn’t there if you’re alone, it just shows the power that is created when we approach His throne together. There’s strength in numbers and when it comes to prayer, it’s no different.
2. Reminder that you are not alone
Galatians 6:2 says, Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
We’re supposed to be there for each other and this includes prayer. When people come to pray with you or for you, it reminds you that there are real people in your corner cheering you on and that they are there to help you. You do not have to suffer alone.
3. People can pray for you when you don’t have the strength or words
There can be times in life when we are so down and defeated that we can’t find the words to pray. All we have is confusion, grief, and tears. In times like this, your family, church family, and others can lift you up and cover you with prayer.
The only catch is you actually have to TELL SOMEONE what you are feeling. Do not suffer alone. Many people feel like a bother to others. Or think that they can handle it on their own. But remember there are people that would love to help you. You are never to be afraid or ashamed to share your burdens.
Prayer is a vital and necessary part of the Christian life. It is important to intentionally do it with other people so we can bear one another’s burdens and grow in spiritual strength and maturity. It may feel awkward to think about praying in a group so often, but once you do and you do it with purpose and intent, you can and will feel a difference.