In a discussion on 1 Corinthians the topic of gifts was being explored. Most people felt that prayer isn’t a sprirtual gift. But most people don’t pray much and have difficulty praying. There are a few who have no difficulty and pray a lot for others. Would you consider this to be in one of the categories of spiritual gifts or just something that some people have any easier time with, like Bible reading?
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Jeff, it’s a great question! Is prayer on any list of spiritual gifts? I look at it this way: since it is so hard for so many of us to pray (we don’t even know how we should pray), and since our salvation is wholly a work of God, I think anybody who can pray (whether publicly or privately) can only pray honestly and properly through the working of the Holy Spirit within that person. In that way, it could be said that it is a spiritual gift.
i think there are those gifted to do it more than others – sure. But in general i dont know that I’d call it a gift any more than reading the bible is a gift. We’re all supposed to do them both and they become easier with practice… i think…i dunno.. this isn’t particular well thought out.
Prayer, especially Intercessory Prayer, is often thought of and taught as a “spiritual gift” or “gifting.” However, no where in Scripture is this concept supported. Talking with our Lord is neither hard nor difficult — as the brother is correct who quotes the fact that the Lord knew we could not do it right — so He does it for us. When we participate, it is simply enjoy Him and thinking with Him. We make it too hard and make a big deal out of it, when it is one of those “already done’s” you Calvinist are so good at understanding. Just join and enjoy.
Thanks for the comments. I usually keep it to myself, but praying has always been easy for me. I don’t have any advice for people who have difficulty with it.
So I was wondering what it might be classified as. As Gary said, it’s still wholly a work of God of course and there are a multitude of weaknesses.
After writing the post and reading your comments I was reminded of Colossians 4:2 which is for everyone.
Jeff
In all the lists of spiritual gifts, prayer is never mentioned as a spiritual gift. Everyone can and ought to pray.
The believer already has the Holy Spirit as a prayer partner, no special fit needed (Rom 8:26).
I had difficulties in praying….but very active in reading the Bible. I decided to pray and ask Jesus to give me the power to make prayers…..I see that there is a big improvement on my side!…..so whether it is a gift or not the only thing i know is that if you pray for it you will be granted as we can not do anything without Him (Jn.15:5)
Good point Deodath. We often forget to pray for things we would like to improve on that are things that God would like us to do in the first place.
Jeff