They Prayed

Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.

--Acts 13:3  (NKJV)

From the daily Bible reading on March 4, 2013 of Psalm 44:17-26; Acts 13:1-25; Leviticus 26:14-27.

The Holy Spirit spoke to the group of disciples gathered at Antioch and told them to separate Barnabas and Saul apart from the group and set them to the task God had assigned them.  The way it was recorded, this instruction was likely very clear and concise, leaving no room for question nor interpretation.  Yet, what did the disciples do first, before obeying the Holy Spirit's order?  They fasted and prayed.  Fasting is a way to prepare ourselves to approach the Lord, a means of clearing ourselves internally, in a manner of speaking.  And prayer is that approach, our direct communication channel with our God in heaven.  So before following the instruction given by the Holy Spirit, they came before the Father, perhaps simply to pay homage to His will.  We don't know for sure what they prayed for or about, the record is not that detailed.  We just know they prayed.

The disciples did this frequently, praying before they acted.  Before casting lots, their means of voting, for the brother who would replace Judas Iscariot, they prayed to God for guidance in their decision.  They prayed to honor God, to acknowledge His sovereign authority over them, to seek His guidance, to discern His will in the next steps they were about to take.  We should follow their example and pray before we act, seek God's guidance before we make a move, ask for temperance before we speak.  He will hear us, and respond.

Ever-present God, too often we fail to come to You seeking Your advise before we make a decision that could have great impact on our lives and the lives of others.  Too often we rely upon our own resources, our own flawed abilities to discern what the best course of action may be.  Please forgive us when we forget just how much we need You and Your help.  Please remind us to come to You when we have tough choices to make.  In Jesus' beautiful name we pray.  Amen.