Prayer Looks to the Future
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is GOD’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.
Gratitude and thanksgiving always look back at the past, although they also take in the present. But prayer always looks to the future. Thanksgiving deals with things already received. Prayer deals with things desired, asked for, and expected.
Prayer turns to gratitude and praise when the things asked for have been granted by GOD. As prayer brings things to us that produces gratitude and thanks giving, so praise and gratitude promote prayer and encourage more and better praying.
~ Verily Blessing
