Luke 11:1 And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.
The Lord Jesus Christ was not only the greatest teacher on the subject of prayer; He was also the greatest example of being a man of prayer. The very fact that Jesus Christ prayed as often as He did and made it the priority of His life is challenging indeed.
For the past six months or so I have been reflecting about how this church and many others were filled with people praying after the tragedy of the attack on the World Trade Center Towers, and rightfully so. Prayers went up to God for help, mercy, strength, comfort, and wisdom regarding the suffering, pain, and consequences of such a barbaric and brutal attack. I would never want to minimize the hurt and suffering of loss that so many endured that day, loss and hurt that will last for some people the rest of their lives.
Each and every hour of each and every day, the church that bears the Name of Jesus is under a devilish attack that has split churches, ruined marriages and devastated ministries. Each and every week, the church is faced with saints who are battling sickness and life-threatening diseases. Addictions and afflictions abound like never before. There is an all out war against the church, beloved, that we cannot ignore and dare not seek to explain away. One of the most powerful weapons of our warfare is the weapon of prayer. Yes, we all pray; but there are times when God calls His people together to pray. We are living in perilous times. Our planet needs prayer. Our nation needs prayer. Our state needs prayer. Our towns and villages need prayer. The church at large and this church needs prayer. Desperate prayer. How badly do you want to see change? Are we ready to gather together and address these critical needs in prayer like we did back in September, 2001? I believe that God is looking for those who will seek Him and that He is ready to grant a breakthrough for His glory and honor. Satan is indeed on the prowl, but our God is a Mighty God, Who has given unto us the privilege of coming to Him for wisdom, help and strength in time of need (Hebrews 4:16)!! Now is the time.
