How can we daily "pray for him continually" as Psalm 72:15 suggests? The Heart Behind Psalm 72:15 “May prayer be offered for him continually; may he be blessed all day long.” (Psalm 72:15) • Originally written for Israel’s king, the verse ultimately points to the Messiah—Jesus, the everlasting King (Luke 1:32-33; Revelation 11:15). • Continual prayer is both a privilege and a command, echoed in “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). The Call to Continual Prayer • “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” (Colossians 4:2) • “Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition.” (Ephesians 6:18) These directives show that “continual” is not hyperbole; God literally invites an ongoing conversation. What Are We Praying For? 1. Christ’s universal reign to be honored now (Psalm 72:8-11; Matthew 6:10). 2. Justice and righteousness to flourish (Psalm 72:1-4; Amos 5:24). 3. Provision for gospel workers (Psalm 72:15 “gold of Sheba”; Philippians 4:19). 4. Protection and salvation for all who trust the King (Psalm 72:12-14; John 17:15-17). 5. Personal obedience and holiness (Psalm 72:7; 1 Peter 1:15-16). Rhythms of Daily, Continual Prayer Morning • Begin with praise: “Every day I will bless You.” (Psalm 145:2) • Commit the day to Christ’s rule (Proverbs 3:5-6). Throughout the day • Short, breath-prayers while driving, waiting, or working: “Lord Jesus, advance Your kingdom in me.” • Bless meals with kingdom-minded gratitude (1 Timothy 4:4-5). Midday pauses • Five-minute check-ins: thank Him for progress, ask for wisdom (James 1:5). Evening • Review the day with Him, confess, and intercede for others (Psalm 139:23-24). Night • Fall asleep reciting a verse or promise (Psalm 4:8). Praying Scripture Back to the King • Turn Psalm 72 into personal petitions: – v.1-2: “Grant Your justice to leaders today.” – v.12-14: “Rescue the needy in our city.” – v.19: “Let Your glory fill the earth.” • Use other passages—e.g., John 17, Colossians 1:9-12—to give language to continual prayer. Tools That Keep Prayer Flowing • Phone reminders tied to specific verses. • A pocket notebook for names and needs. • Prayer cards taped near the sink, desk, dashboard. • Set worship music as alarms; when they chime, pray the lyric. • Pair routine tasks (laundry, walking the dog) with set intercessions. The Fruit of a Life That Prays Continually • Deeper awareness of Christ’s presence (Matthew 28:20). • Peace that guards heart and mind (Philippians 4:6-7). • Bold access to grace for every need (Hebrews 4:16). • A lifestyle that blesses the King “all day long,” fulfilling Psalm 72:15. |
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