We are all acutely aware of the chaos, unrest, and instability of our world today. Terrorism seems to be increasing, persecution of Christians is escalating, climate change is creating devastation around the world. Individuals become more isolated as we spend more time with our electronic devises than we do with each. Discouraging information is constantly brought to our attention on the news. And the church is not immune. We continue to hear reports that church membership is shrinking, denominational loyalty is waning, and young people are leaving the church. What can we do in times such as these? I would like to suggest that one of our most powerful and effective weapons is prayer. Andrew Murray has said, “God’s child can conquer everything by prayer. Is it any wonder that Satan does his utmost to snatch that weapon from the Christian or to hinder him (her) to use it? I wish to do my utmost to restore that mighty weapon to the hands of the church and to stir you up to use this weapon in mighty and victorious onslaught on Satan and his forces.”
We can make a difference as individuals and as churches, but we need to arm and prepare ourselves to do battle in the spiritual realm. Immediately after the passage about putting on the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-17, Paul goes on in verse 18 to say, “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”
If you would like to be a part of a mighty prayer movement, I would encourage you to access a page on Facebook called “Praying for Renewal in the Christian Reformed Church.” At least once a week you will receive a Bible verse or quote to remind you and inspire you to pray for spiritual renewal in our denomination.
In addition, you will be given an opportunity to add our church’s name to a list if you would like others to pray for LaGrave (or other churches in our classis). You will also have a chance to pray for all the other churches listed there.
What has been so exciting, is that as this prayer initiative has grown, churches from other denominations are adding their names.
It is a wonderful feeling of unity as one prays for believers and congregations from across North America from all different denominations. God is at work through the power of united prayer. You can be a part of this mighty effort and be used by God to make a difference in times such as these.
So please look up “Praying for Renewal in the Christian Reformed Church” on Facebook and like the page so you can join thousands of fellow believers in making a difference through prayer.
