Matthew 18:19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

I love the hidden meanings of Jesus’ exhortation here.  We often refer to this verse as a source of encouragement that united prayer can release the power of God, and that is true and good.  But, it jumps past one of the most powerful learning tools this verse teaches.  

In verse 19 we are told that the condition for heaven’s release of answers to prayer is agreement.  This is where the potential for real power, growth, healing and intimacy in prayer is found.  The word for “agree” in the Greek is “Sumphoneo”.  An essential translation is to harmonize together.  This word is the source of our English word “symphony”.  Just imagine a group of musicians, each playing a different instrument, yet, under the leadership of a skilled conductor, they make beautiful music together. 

This is an image of what real agreement in prayer is.  It is not just a couple of Christians making sure to ask for the same thing so that God will hear and answer.  No, this promise is a statement that when two or three Christians come together and focus on the conductor of prayer – hear, see, follow the lead of the conductor, they can release the power of heaven together.  

Next time you join together in prayer seek to unite in a heart attitude of submission to the conductor.  Ask God to lead your prayer time.  Then listen.  Listen to the Scripture.  Listen to each other pray.  Listen to the “still small voice” in your heart as the Spirit of God works His will in this united concert of prayer.  Seek out the conductor’s guidance as you pray “together.”  

You can release the power of God’s Kingdom by seeking the King’s guidance in prayer together. Let’s make some beautiful music together.  Let’s pray!