From time to time I like to remind us of how vital prayer is for our personal growth, our families, our church, and our nation. Look at a few familiar verses concerning prayer:
“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” James 5:16.
“Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing” 1 Timothy 2:8.
“Pray continually” 1 Thessalonians 5:17.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” Philippians 4:6.
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him” Matthew 7:11.
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” Romans 12:12.
“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” Matthew 26:41.
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” Mark 11:24.
After reading these verses, I am reminded that in order to be in a vital relationship with God, prayer needs to be a pivotal, daily activity that is intentionally sought after. It has to be developed and placed in the involuntary muscle category of our life.
There are two new initiatives we are promoting beginning in February. The first is to fast during the month of February. We started this last year and thought it would be good to repeat it again this year. We heard so many good stories of how God was speaking to people and many answers to prayer. Inserts will be available in our bulletins in the near future.
The second one is to “Read Big.” We will be reading through the New Testament in eight weekslike you have never done before. It will take about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. You can purchase a special Bible (beginning Jan. 22) for $5 to begin the journey which starts Monday, February 6. The paperback Bible is without chapters and verses. Daily email reminders are sent and also gives you more understanding of the context of what you are reading. We will discover our place in God’s story when we immerse ourselves in the redemptive drama of the Bible.
These two initiatives are best done in community. It is one thing to do it on your own, but it is a rich experience when you do it with others. Read your portion throughout the week and then process it by asking five simple questions. In other words, share your thoughts, discoveries, and responses with others as you partner with them and encourage each other along this journey. Begin to pray now for a friend or maybe even your Lifepoint group that will help keep you accountable to follow through on these two life-changing initiatives. It will be worth it all.
I’m looking forward to a great day on Sunday…
Joy in Jesus!
Pastor Mike
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