The Disciples Reflect on the Temple Visit

A Prayer

Lord Jesus,

May your house and your people be a people of prayer. You know our afflictions and poverty, yet you tell us we are rich in you - and we are. We will not fear in the face of suffering, or in the face of testing, trial and persecution. When our faith is tested, may it be found perfect in you. May we always be true to your name and never renounce you. You give us love, your service and your perseverance. Fill us to overflowing. Search our hearts and minds, and repay us according to our deeds through your Son. Wake us up to obedience and repentance. Make your church worthy, and dress your 'bride' in your righteousness. Empower us to overcome. Help us to hear what your Spirit says to us. Amen.

Journal Exercise

Too often Christian people resort to wordly methods to further God’s mission just like the Pharisees who were so zealous that they could not recognise God’s King - Jesus. Reflect on your efforts to further the kingdom. Write a prayer that seeks wisdom to do God’s will his way.

Are you worried by the lack of prayer your fellowship group, local church, or wider church are employing to further the gospel? Write a prayer expressing your concerns to God and ask for his wisdom. Pray this prayer and if appropriate, act on it.

Quotes

Gospel advance is constantly impeded through prayerlessness and lack of spiritual militancy on the part of God's children. "Forward on your knees” should be the watch cry of all believers.

– Wesley Duewel

Think of all the church growth exponents whose vision for the modern,”cutting edge” church includes everything but prayer. The prayer meeting, which was the engine that drove the apostolic church, is found nowhere in the new vision.

– Jim Cymbala

A Challenging Prayer

Let us glorify God by proclaiming our saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, in prayerful dependance on the Holy Spirit.