The Power of Prayer Partnerships

In Proverbs 27, King Solomon applies his wisdom to the potential power of god-breathed relationships. Take a look at what he shares about that in verse 17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Now visualize iron sharpening iron – rubbing two iron blades together, seeing the edges become sharper, more efficient for cutting or slicing. Just as God’s Word is a “double-edged sword,” we can use it to sharpen one another spiritually. We benefit when we use our fellowship together to help prune away rough edges of each other’s character – and that of our brothers and sisters – so we can become more like Jesus.

Prayer partnerships possess this potential power.

Just as we were not made to do life alone, we are not meant to complete Care Partner training alone. A dull blade is less effective and less useful in God’s service. That’s why early in the training, you’ll get to choose a prayer partner, an opportunity for sharpening one another. You’ll want to intentionally nurture this partnership so that your blades shine brightly, each a light-bearer for the other in mutual spiritual growth.

As in any new relationship, it’s best to take some time to get to know each other. Be honest and vulnerable in your approach. This will help you bond and build trust before you move on to talking about your daily spiritual lives. A good way to get started is to tell each other about your families, your relationship with God, your spiritual history, and any other areas of life you both choose to cover.

You’ll also find helpful resources in your training material. Use the Prayer Suggestions for the Week located at the end of every training class as well as Week 1’s Appendix B: Rooted in Christ – A Look at Spiritual Disciplines to sharpen one another with a motive to become more God-centered, reliable, compassionate, and full of belief. Spend time together, encouraging, celebrating, praying, and sharing God’s Word as you further develop these godly caregiver characteristics.

Becoming a Care Partner is a transformational journey. As your Week 1 pre-class reading states, “The most important caring tool you will bring to every caregiving situation is YOU.” An exciting part of the journey is who you will become through the process. As you are equipped and empowered in this healing and caring ministry, tap into your prayer partnership to refuel, replenish, and refresh each other’s spiritual reserve. We are called to “be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love” (Eph 4:2), to “encourage one another,” and “build each other up” (1 Thess 5:11).

The Lord has assigned you to bring the healing care of Jesus to others. Commit today to maximize the potential power of your prayer partnership and expect God to do wonderful things in your life as you sharpen each other spiritually!