Continuing the Battle for Christ – Week 9

How should we respond to persecution?

I recently heard a speaker ask this question: “What if Joseph had been released from Pharaoh’s prison? What if he wasn’t there when Pharaoh had a dream that needed interpretation?” (Genesis 39:1 – 41:41).

That same thought applies to our persecuted brothers and sisters.  “… he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live” (Acts 17:26b NIV84). God has them there for a reason.  Those who are persecuted are in unique positions to witness for Christ, often to those who have never heard the name of Jesus.  Pray that they will be bold in their witness so that many of their persecutors may be won to Christ!     

How should we pray for the lost?

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express” (Romans 8:26 NIV84).

Too often, we don’t know how or what to pray for those we love who are lost.  Remember that the Holy Spirit can intercede on their behalf.  Ask Him to show you how and when to speak Truth, and to soften the hearts and open the ears of those who need to hear and accept the Truth.

Leadership Prayer Focus This Week: State Senators

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.  The authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1 NIV84).

Together with the State Representatives, our State Senators govern the State.  They enact laws, create state budgets, and have the power of veto over the Governor’s actions.

Pray that: They will recognize that they serve at God’s pleasure, not their own.

They will turn away from political expediency and instead determine what is best for all their constituents.

They will be fiscally responsible.

They will serve with honesty and integrity.

For all our leaders, pray that if they do not already know Christ, they will accept Him as Lord.  For those who do know Christ, pray that they will stand firm on His Truth and His Word, never compromising it or minimizing it.

“Pray continuously” (I Thessalonians 5:17 NIV84)