Romans 15:31-32 (NKJV)

“that I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints, that I may come to you with joy by the will of God, and may be refreshed together with you.”

For fellowship to be real, it must be deep. For us to show that our fellowship is not a mere show, we need to be specific about what our real needs are. In this passage, Paul expressed his specific prayer needs which demonstrated the level of trust and commitment he had for the brethren. Firstly he needed prayers for deliverance from the hands of unbelievers in Judea. He knew there was a real threat before him as he journeyed there, and he needed prayer support. Secondly, he needed prayers that the brethren would accept his service and ministry. He wasn’t sure of how the Saints in Jerusalem would receive him. Thirdly, he needed prayers that he would meet the Roman Church with joy, and not in sorrow and pain. And finally, he needed prayers to be refreshed, asking not only for himself but that they would be refreshed together.

We need to be specific when we ask for prayers. Don’t make generic prayer requests. The more specific your requests, the deeper the fellowship and the more likely people will pray correctly. Throw away your insecurities and pride. Don’t be arrogant to hide your real and acute prayer needs. Let people know where you are vulnerable and reach out for prayers. If we so do, we will most likely have more victories than we are currently experiencing.

“Lord, thank You for sending me people who love me enough to pray for me. May I learn to be more and more vulnerable with them by sharing those sensitive needs of my life. And please make this gesture reciprocal so that we are all refreshing one another as we pray deep and correct prayers for one another. In Jesus name. Amen.”