Following the life of Jesus through eyewitness accounts, we see Him through the lens of a stunned and amazed crowd who flocked to hear His gracious words and to see His incredible works. We cannot help but notice a relentless pursuit of ‘alone time’ with His Father coinciding with His miracles. Familiarity with these stories can dull our appreciation for the dependence He had on Another for both direction and burden. Prayer was a constant thread in a life of perfect obedience, an indicator of both cooperation and submission. It was a guard against relying on His considerable human reasoning faculty as He went about His mission.
Sadly our planning for kingdom work as the church seldom expresses a desperate seeking of our Father’s will, but more often relies on common sense, proven marketing strategy, or church tradition. We have a similar template individually, and without purposeful repentant intentionality we will get by, content to live without the kiss of answered prayer. Surprised when answers do come, we routinely succumb to unbelief and human wisdom in our battle against formidable spiritual enemies. Too often we miss the connection with God and one another that accompanies fervent corporate prayer. Our relationships simmer at the natural level as we are unaccustomed to spiritual transparency, afraid that exposing our weakness will diminish our status. Our pride prevents healing and thwarts the Gospel work in our hearts that would promote the kingdom.
Grim picture. Desperate times. Repentance is needed. It starts with me. This change of season affords an opportunity for each of us to recalibrate spiritual routine. If ever there were a time to get serious about prayer, this is it. As I point a finger at the church I am keenly aware that four more point back to me.
Pray for your church neighborhood this fall with others from your gathering. In Ephesians 6 prayer is the long range artillery in an otherwise hand to hand suit of armor afforded us in our battle on enemy turf. Let’s be those who put on the armor and fight for our neighbors who are without God and without hope in a chaotic degenerating culture. We might be their last line of defense.
For help or inspiration for prayer, check out the Prayer Page on the GIG Website
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