25.   Health Benefits of Prayer

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Source: British Medical Journal – Researchers at the University of London in England examined nearly 300 patients between the ages of 15 and 19 and found that attending religious services and/or fellowships was associated with approximately 90 (%) percent less likelihood of meningitis (inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord). Such a risk reduction was slightly greater  than the associated with meningtis vaccine.

Spiritually: The Bible New Living Translation (NLT) 2 Corinthians 12:9 stated, “9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”

Life Application: iLumina Bible Studies Our Lord Jesus’ answer to Paul’s prayer is the theme of 2 Corinthians: Jesus Christ’s gracious favor is what empowered Paul’s ministry, despite his own inadequacies and failures. Although Paul’s request wasn’t granted, Lord Jesus assured Him that He would continue to work through Paul in his weakness. In fact, Jesus Christ’s power worked best there. So in response, Paul accepted that Lord Jesus Christ, in His divine wisdom, knew what was best for him. Paul would not boast in being healed, but he would boast about his weaknesses, for it was through his weaknesses that Lord Jesus Christ could powerfully work through him.

THE PRIORITY OF PRAYER by Dr. Charles Stanley of InTouch Ministries https://www.intouch.org/watch/the-priority-of-prayer