A Call to Prayer

We recently had a 24-hour prayer watch at our church. Praise God that 116 Christ-followers came and prayed throughout that 24-hour period. We believe that prayer impacts God’s kingdom.

I realized as we worked to spread the word about this prayer effort that some folks don’t see the need for prayer. Some would ask, “Why are we doing this?” “Why are we praying all night?”

Does this kind of prayer seem extreme to you?

Saints, we are in a war. This is not a war for peace. It is not a war against terrorism. This is not a war for Biblical values to be respected in our particular culture. This is a spiritual war for souls. This is the same war Paul was in. We will not have a positive effect on the outcome of this war if we continue to allow the enemy to “dupe” us. Notice how Paul needed prayer:

Colossians 4:2-4 (NIV)
² Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
³ And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.
⁴ Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.

If you think you are not in a war—you’re duped. If you think prayer is not a necessity—that you must pray—you’re duped. Jesus called the church at Sardis to “Wake Up” twice in the letter to this church in Revelation 3:1-3. Yes, this same message is for us today. Christian, “Wake up.” There is a battle. We are commissioned officers in this battle. We have weapons. We must use them. Remember the first thing Paul instructs us to do after putting on the spiritual armor is pray. We are called to witness. We are called to make disciples. We must pray.

Ephesians 6:13-20 (ESV)
¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.
¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,
¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.
¹⁶ In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;
¹⁷ and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,
¹⁸ praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, ¹⁹ and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,
²⁰ for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

Please realize there is a primary more fundamental aspect to the Christian faith. To be most effective in this spiritual battle we must be convinced of the amazing love the Father has for each one of us—we are beloved. God desires relationship with each of us. Think about this. Is your Christianity merely discipline, duty and accomplishing a list of things to do. We must be careful here. We must realize that Christianity is much more than duty—it is knowing God. Out of this deep relationship, we love God and seek to please Him, adore Him, worship Him, and honor Him.

If you are not praying, then pray. Now is the time. We must pray Bible-based, Holy Spirit-driven, kingdom-based prayers in Jesus name. Jesus promises to answer such prayers. If you are praying—pray more.

Stop seeking comfort and materialism—none of that is eternal. We must be transformed by the renewing of our minds, not conformed to this world. We read God’s Word. We pray. We pursue a relationship with God, not merely head knowledge about God. Remember head knowledge about God is what demons have—this is not enough for the Christ-follower (James 2:19). We must know Jesus. We must follow Him. We must obey Him.

Let’s look at this 24-hour prayer watch another way. What if God actually heard those prayers? What if God chose to respond to those prayers by re-igniting a passion for His Word in the hearts of 50 pastors in our state? What if those prayers positively impacted the work of missionaries in Uganda, India, and Asia? What if those prayers somehow paved the way for the lost to have their eyes opened—their hearts drawn to Christ? Would praying be worth it then? Absolutely. So, the real question is, “What do you believe about prayer?” Will God answer prayer in Jesus name or not?

Saints, may our deep love for God compel us to pray.

Compelled to pray and desperate for God, Steve