Side Benefits

Everyone likes to get a bonus! Especially when it is unexpected. Were you aware you get a bonus when you pray? Side benefits that are totally unexpected? That is what the Apostle Paul is talking about in the fourth chapter of Philipians when he says "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philipians 4:6)Who would have ever thought that the very act of prayer would give the petitioner a God given peace! And not only that, but a peace that defys human understanding. My favorite part of Philipians 4:6 comes next: "shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Yes, you will keep you mind when others are losing theirs. Keep your heart when others are being broken. All because we are faithful in prayer. King David said that God actually "loads" (Psalms 68:19)us with benefits! So what should we do in response to all of God's wonderful benefits? David said it should inspire us to pray all the more:"What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD." (Psalms 116:12-13)