Beloved Saints of a great God, we traverse on a journey together today, exploring the transformative power of prayer and the profound wisdom found in the Holy Scriptures. On Wednesday, March 27 th through Friday, March 29, 2024, our objective is to be fasting each day from 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
In today's fast-paced and often chaotic world, the significance of prayer cannot be overstated. It's a sanctuary where we lay bare our fears, hopes, and dreams before a loving and compassionate Creator. It's a place where we find refuge from the noise of the world, where we can pour out our hearts without fear of judgment or condemnation. In prayer, we discover a sacred space where we are fully known and deeply loved. In times of joy and challenge, prayer becomes a powerful anchor that grounds and propels us forward. During life's storms, we find solace and strength in the timeless practice of prayer. Prayer, indeed, stands as a powerful anchor - a steadfast link that connects us to the Divine, grounding us in times of turmoil and guiding us through life’s adversities. The phrase "Go Forward in Prayer" summarizes the essence of an active and faith-filled life, seeking guidance and strength (from the One who has the blueprint for our lives).
As an assembly, we’ve been commissioned by our Pastor, Rev. Leon Gordon, to advance in seven key areas:(1) Church Attendance; (2) Prayer and Fasting; (3) Discipleship; (4) Sacrificial giving; (5) Evangelism; (6) Bible Reading and Studying; and lastly (7) Fellowship and for sure prayer will be the positional system to have us to accomplish His will in all these areas.
1. The Power of Persistent Prayer: "And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint." (St. Luke 18:1). Persistent prayer is a key principle, the act of continually seeking God's presence and guidance demonstrating unwavering faith and resilience in the face of challenges.
2. Trusting in God's Plan: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6). Going forward in prayer involves surrendering our plans to the Divine will. Trusting in God's wisdom and guidance allows us to confidently move forward, knowing that His plan is far greater than our own.
3. Finding Strength in Weakness: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31). In times of weakness, prayer becomes our source of strength. Going forward in prayer means relying on God's grace to lift us up when we are weary, enabling us to soar to new heights.
4. Gratitude and Thanksgiving: "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6). As we go forward in prayer, it is essential to cultivate a heart of gratitude. Expressing thanksgiving in our prayers or a Praise Report not only aligns us with God's will but also transforms our perspective, fostering joy and contentment.
In conclusion, as we endeavor to advance in these seven key areas of our faith, let's approach them with purpose, commitment, and reliance on God's grace. Drawing inspiration from Scripture, let's allow the Holy Spirit to lead us towards a deeper connection with Him. By trusting in His plan, and unlocking our full potential, we can strengthen our relationship with Him, enabling His purposes to be fulfilled in our lives and the world around us. Let's all be encouraged to embrace this journey of growth and reflection, understanding that as we focus on our assembly's theme of "Go Forward" with prayer as the driving force, we will be aligned with His will.