Thanking God for One Another — Praying through September —

Thanking God for One Another

Pastor Calvin Cook

Day 5 of 30 — September 11, 2026

Praying for One Another

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 1:3–6

During these first five days, we have been learning to pray for one another.

We have carried people to Jesus, prayed for those facing struggles they may not yet understand, allowed the Holy Spirit to intercede when we did not know what to pray, and considered the importance of praying honestly with trusted believers.

Today, we add something that can easily be forgotten:

Much of our prayer time focuses on sickness, grief, broken relationships, financial struggles, difficult decisions, and situations that seem impossible. We should bring these needs before God, but prayer should not become only a list of everything that is wrong.

Paul wrote, “I thank my God every time I remember you.” He was writing from prison. His circumstances were difficult and his future uncertain. Yet remembering the believers in Philippi filled him with gratitude and joy.

Paul did not simply thank them. He thanked God for them.

When we thank God for someone, we recognize that their presence is a gift of grace. We begin to notice how God has worked through their prayers, encouragement, correction, patience, faithfulness, and love.

As I shared earlier this week about those important in my faith journey, this morning I pause to think of Aunt Duck—Awilda Catherine Moon—who surrounded me with prayer and helped teach me what it means to follow Jesus. I remember Pastor Bob Siple, who knocked on our door and invited us not only to church but into a relationship with Jesus. He baptized me, discipled me, and continued speaking into my life until the final days of his earthly journey.

I also think of my family, the churches that helped form me, and those who prayed for me when I did not even know I needed prayer.

Who comes to your mind? Perhaps it is someone who remained beside you when others walked away or whose simple faith helped you believe God was still at work.

I am also thankful this morning for those who reach out to me. Share kind words through messages and personal words.

Paul was thankful for the Philippians because of their “partnership in the gospel.” Christian fellowship is more than companionship. We pray, serve, carry burdens, encourage one another, and help one another remain faithful.

Paul then gives this assurance: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”

Sometimes we see only what remains unfinished in another person—the mistakes, struggles, and weaknesses. God sees the work He has begun. We can pray with hope, trusting that God remains able to transform and restore.

If someone you love is still finding their way, do not give up on them. Perhaps you feel unfinished today. Remember that God has not abandoned His work in you either. Your story is still being written.

Speak someone’s name before God and say, “Lord, thank You for placing this person in my life.” Then tell that person what they mean to you. Do not wait until a funeral, farewell, or crisis to express your gratitude.

Prayer : Lord God, thank You for those who have prayed for me, taught me, corrected me, encouraged me, and helped me follow Jesus.

Today, I especially thank You for: __________.

Give me a grateful heart and help me express that gratitude while I have the opportunity.

Thank You for not giving up on me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s prayer step: Write down the names of three people for whom you are thankful. Speak each name before God, and then contact at least one of them and say, “I thanked God for you today.”