04/04/2022
1 Corinthians 1:18, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” We can see this today. Many people think preaching is foolish. They will say things like, “I don't like a preacher telling me what to do and not do.”Christ Jesus said, "Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32). That's a wonderful promise that can be taken seriously, especially when you feel the need for some sort of healing - whether the difficulty is injury, illness, financial hardship, a troubled relationship, or anything elsePerhaps God has placed a desire in your heart to pray for missionaries everywhere, or maybe for one particular missionary. Either way, God has a great plan to use you to help complete his mission of making his name known among the nations as you participate through prayer. Use these seven points to fuel your prayers for our missions partners work in the Triangle and beyond.
I. PRAY FOR OPEN DOORS
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message. …
— Colossians 4:2–3a
Open doors can’t be taken for granted. Many missionaries work in countries that are difficult to access or in areas that are resistant to the gospel. But open doors include more than just access to nations and people groups. Individuals’ hearts also need to be open and receptive to God’s truth.Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” — Matthew 11:28–30
Missionaries deal with many of the same stresses you face in life, like overwhelming workloads, conflicts in relationships and financial uncertainties. Often, however, missionaries struggle with these issues alone, without the fellowship and support of other Christians. Living and working cross-culturally adds an additional element that can challenge their emotional, spiritual and physical vitality.
Pray …
That God will provide opportunities for missionaries in isolated areas to spend time with other believers.
That God will provide times of peace and relaxation to refresh his workers.
For restoration — physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually — that can only be found in Jesus.
