Praying for the success of others.

I Chron. 22:11-13  Now my son, may the LORD be with you and give you success as you follow his instruction in building the Temple of the LORD your God.   May the LORD your God give you wisdom and understanding that you may obey the law of the LORD your God as you rule over Israel. For if you carefully obey the laws and regulations that the LORD gave to Israel through Moses, you will be successful.  Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or lose heart!

David’s prayer for Solomon was for Solomon’s success in fulfilling God’s plan for him.  He prayed that Solomon would have what it took to do the job and the fortitude of heart to do it.  He prayed that Solomon would know God’s way and follow it.  What a prayer!

We too should be praying over our families and friends like this.  David was kept from doing what Solomon was now about to do.  David wanted to do it, but it was not God’s will for him.  Instead of pouting about it, he blessed his son because he could do it.  Do we have that kind of a heart?  Are we pure enough in heart to want others to succeed in what we can’t do?  Be honest with yourself.  Does jealousy creep in when someone is more successful than you in doing what you want to do?  Do you get bothered when others get to do what you want to do?

It’s not up to us as to who gets to do what in God’s kingdom.  He controls the ways things get done and who does them, not us.  He knows who is best suited to fulfill His plans, not us.  He doesn’t need our opinions; he needs our humble hearts.  He needs us to support those who are chosen to do the task.  He needs us to be encouragers and not discouragers.  He needs us to pray for the well-being and success of those serving.

Do what God has given you to do and don’t concern yourself about what you have not been given to do.  Be thankful for what the Lord has allowed you to do and do it to the best of your ability.  Bless those who are doing other things.  Be a blessing and you will be blessed.