In this study series, we will explore the heart of the apostle Paul as he wrestles with the salvation of his own people Israel. We will dive into six essential aspects of God’s character, including His promises, election, mercy, will, eternal plan, and remnant. 
We will discover how God’s sovereign grace and salvation are extended to all people, and how we as believers can pray for the salvation of others. Finally, we will reflect on how Israel missed God’s plan and how Gentiles received salvation through faith, and the implications for us today. Join us as we journey through Romans 9 and 10, and discover the power of prayer and the depths of God’s love.
Paul’s sorrow and anguish for his own people
I am speaking the truth in Christ—I am not lying; my conscience bears me witness in the Holy Spirit— 2 that I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. 3 For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers,[my kinsmen according to the flesh. 4 They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. 5 To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen. (Romans 9: 1-5)
In the first few verses of chapter 9, Paul speaks openly and honestly about his deep concern for the people of Israel, who are his brothers and relatives according to the flesh. He is truthful in his words and speaks with the conviction that comes from the Holy Spirit. Paul’s conscience testifies to the truth of his message. He expresses great sorrow and a sense of ongoing anguish that he carries in his heart.
Paul’s burden leads him to pray
Brothers,[a] my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. 2 For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For, being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness. 4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.(Romans 10: 1-4)
In chapter 9, Paul expresses his deep sorrow and concern for the people of Israel. In chapter 10, he talks about how his compassion for them led him to pray for their salvation. Paul’s heart’s desire was for the people of Israel to be saved, and he poured out his heart in prayer to God on their behalf, pleading for their salvation.
His prayer for the people of Israel arose from his heart’s sorrow, unceasing anguish and desire for their salvation.
Many times we are unable to pray for our dear and near ones because there is no sorrow in our heart seeing them being lost. If there is unceasing anguish in our heart for them, and desire that they may be saved, then it will lead us to praying for them.
Let’s pray for a burden from the Lord
Let us take a moment to reflect on our hearts and ask the Lord to fill us with a deep sense of concern for the souls of those around us who are in danger. If we open our hearts to Him, the Lord will pour His own heart into ours, and we will be filled with a godly sorrow for those who are perishing.
Let us pray: Heavenly Father, please soften my heart so that I am deeply moved by the sight of those around me who are in danger of losing their souls. Fill me with the same sorrow, grief, and desire that You have for the lost, so that I may be moved to pray for them and do what I can to help them.