The Apostle Peter wrote to us during a very dangerous time for Christians a few years after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. He said "The end of all things is near. Therefore, be alert and of sober mind so that YOU MAY PRAY. " Prayer is often overlooked, even by believers, but in reality it is a mighty weapon given to us to use against the attacks of the enemy. An interesting chapter in 2 Chronicles 20 in the Old Testament tells us about the importance of our battle formation when we pray. King Jehoshaphat was preparing for war and appointed singers to pray as they walked in front of the army of warriors. Before the army engaged in warfare the prayer warriors thanked God for the victory- in faith- before anything happened and miraculously God's people won the battle. We need prayer warriors today who are not intimidated by the the jeering crowd of unbelievers who preach prayer is useless.
It is evident we are in the final days that Peter was talking about. As predicted thousands of years ago in the pages of the Bible, suffering, persecution and sometimes death has become the norm for Christians seeking a true, born-again relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. A few weeks ago we witnessed the assassination of a young leader fighting a battle for our conservative values; highlighting faith, family and freedom. Young and old alike were listening to him tell the gospel story of love and forgiveness from a loving God who gave his only son to redeem us. A hater in the crowd, shot and killed him for his words. The following week, after this modern martyr's death, churches were filled with people coming back to repent and pray after years of hiding in the shadows afraid to speak up. Others rushed to the alter for the first time to ask Jesus into their hearts. Fear turned into courage and our squeaky voices became the roar of a mighty army.
Unfortunately, the enemy of our souls has other plans. He wants to wreak havoc and cripple us with fear by using people filled with hatred to kill innocent believers while they gather to pray in churches across the country. If they can scare us away from prayer and worship their reign of terror will continue. But... if we cling to faith and pray they will be defeated. You might wonder why there is so much hatred of the gospel message? Over two thousand years ago, Jesus gave us the answer. He said "If the world hates you, understand that they hated me first." (John 15:18) Thankfully, Jesus left us with instructions on how we need to live in these days that are increasingly evil. He told us to live intentionally. Each one of us has a part to play as we commit ourselves to prayer and studying God's word...the Bible. Like other brave men and women who went before us we must be ready to tell our friends, family and co-workers why we have the hope that is burning inside us. While there is still time, God wants us to make the most of every opportunity so unbelievers hear the good news of salvation. Maybe you have not made a decision yet to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior. Maybe you have been holding back for fear of losing friends or your job. Don't let the negative mindset of fear stop you. Jesus is calling you right now to be part of his family of believers. "If you declare with your mouth Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heat God raised him from the dead you will be saved ( Romans 10:9 )
PRAYER Father God, I receive Jesus Christ as my Savior, I ask forgiveness for my sins and I choose to walk with you forever. I am yours now and always. Amen
