Hebrews 10:32 (NASB) says "But remember the former days, when, after being enlightened, you endured a great conflict of sufferings."
Flesh & spirit are at war until we go home, so we must be alert and "pray continuously." (1 Thessalonians 5:17). It is imperative for our church to pray during this transition to another place. Our church has been through this before and Satan has worked overtime in the past to bring us down. We have only overcome, because ..."Greater is [Jesus] who is in us, than He who is in the world." I John 4:4 and because we are a church that prays.
I believe that when we pray God's Words, that our prayers are even more effective than any words we can muster up on our own. Brad's words brought to mind 1 Peter 5:6-11. These words can be changed into a prayer that I thought I would post for others to pray as well. (First read the scripture link or follow along in the Word, to see how easy it is to form God's Words into your own prayer.)
Father, we humble ourselves under your mighty hand, that you may lift us up in due time. We now cast all of our worries/fears/anxieties on you. Thank you for caring for us. We pray that every one of us would be self-controlled and alert, keenly aware that our enemy prowls around us like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. I pray right now that we as a church family would resist him, standing firm in the faith, knowing we are not alone, as our brothers & sisters throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. We call on You, the God of all grace, who called us to this eternal glory in Christ. We ask that even if we must suffer a little while, that you will restore us and make us strong, firm and steadfast. To YOU we give glory because of your mighty power for ever and ever. Amen.
