Forward: 21 Days of Fasting and PrayerSample

BEING STRONG IN PURPOSE

In Acts 4, the leaders and elders of the religious council threatened Peter and John to stop preaching about Jesus, after they had witnessed the disciples heal a crippled beggar. In front of the entire council, Peter and John remain unfazed. They boldly declared that their purpose was to tell everyone about all that they had seen and heard, and that they were not going to stop.

Our purpose will be tested. The call of God is exciting and inspiring - He has called us to be His witnesses and share the gospel! Like Peter and John, we should expect to face opposition and testing. You might be going through a period of testing and opposition because of your decision to pursue God’s purposes for your life. Take heart, you’re not alone!

We must hold fast to what God has called us to. Decide that it is better to obey God than to fear man. Pray and ask God for boldness and strength - just like Peter and John - to stand against opposition and not give up ground. God is standing with you in such moments and will give you the courage to stay the course. People are watching and your response in such situations will set an example of someone standing strong in God’s purposes.

All things will work out for good! Romans 8:28 says that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Because of the conviction that Peter and John had, the council released them and they continued preaching about Jesus. God is on our side! If He begins a good work in you, He will see it to completion!

Reflect:

• Identify instances where you’ve faced opposition because of your decision to pursue God’s purpose for you. Did you give in to the pressure? How can you stand strong when you face pressure again?
• What has God called you to in this season? (e.g. to serve as a Connect Group Leader) List down some practical ways to remain faithful to that calling.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. I know that You work all things out for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. Even though I may not fully understand challenges that I go through, help me to remain strong and faithful to Your calling. I choose to trust in You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.