Remembering What's Vital
June 2, 2010
"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness,
but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish,
but that all should come to repentance" (II Peter 3:9).
Thanks for praying and fasting with us this Wednesday, June 2.
Every Memorial Day we try to 'remember' the veterans who have selflessly protected our freedoms by serving our country. And we are so grateful. Every major war consists of many smaller battles... some we lose and some we win. If we win the crucial battles, we win the war. But as the saying goes, 'we can win the battle, but lose the war.'
Today America is in deep trouble and has many battles on many fronts. But two of the most crucial battles are for the 'mission' of the church, and then for the 'souls' of mankind. These battles we must win. They are not negotiable. In the verse above, Peter says that God is longsuffering toward 'us.' This means 'us', the church and 'us' the world. His letter is written to the church. God is waiting for us, the church, to be missional and tracking with what is dearest to His heart... people.
Let's pray for ourselves, the church...
Dear Lord,We, the church, have lost too many battles. We have forgotten to 'remember' our earthly mission. We have been sidetracked by tedious issues and debates that have little or no eternal value. Please forgive us, and bring us back on target again by loving God wholeheartedly and loving people the way we love ourselves.
Let's pray for our city and country...
Dear Lord,Your word says that you are "not willing that ANY should perish, but that ALL should come to repentance." We repent for the sins of our city and our country. Forgive us for 'forgetting' You, and following our own fleshly lusts. Forgive us for despising authority in our families, church and government. Help us to begin again, this time walking in the awe and respect of Your name. We desperately cry out to You, our country's only hope.
Let's pray for the global advance of the gospel...
Dear Lord,This Memorial Day period, we 'remember' those who have gone before us in the faith, sacrificing greatly so this gospel could be preached in all the world. Give us the focus to help finish their task of spreading the gospel to ALL the world so that ALL could have the chance to repent. Bless those today who are engaged in Your mission throughout the world. We pray it in confidence, knowing You hear us when we pray in Jesus name, Amen.