Every great work in the Church begins with someone on their knees. Tap into the power of God through prayer.
"We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family." Romans 8:28-29.
A minister friend of mine sent me the following inspiring devotional story:
On the Military Channel you can watch programs such as the training for those who desire to become Navy SEALS. This includes many physical and mental stresses. One training is called "Old Misery." Exhausted, wet, and hungry teams of men hoist "Old Misery" (a 400 hundred pound log) onto their aching shoulders and then carry it up and down the beach. When one man stumbles, his teammates immediately help him up, carrying his portion of "Old Misery" until he is steady on his feet, and encouraging him to finish the task.
Each man knows the value of teamwork and how the load increases exponentially when one man stumbles. What a clear picture of God allowing struggles in our lives as a way to keep our attention focused on the mission to be conformed to the likeness of His son. Pain and struggles can be tools God uses them to shape and prune us. This "sanctification process" begins when we first ask Christ to enter our lives and ends when we meet Him face to face in heaven.
In times of struggles our true convictions, my faith and commitment are tested. It's easy for me to say, "Praise God, isn't He good," when things are peaceful. But when struggles enter my life, what I really believe about God becomes evident in my thoughts, words, and actions. The wonderful part of the promise is that we are not alone. We have the Holy Spirit there to cheer us on, we have companions who will carry our share of the load when we stumble, and we can return the favor when our brother or sister stumbles.
As you encounter your own "Old Misery" situations, remember you are not alone. The Lord has provided His Holy Spirit to help you carry the load and He will place people in your life that will help you and encourage you to finish the task of becoming more Christ-like. That way, you and I can live the command of Ephesians 4:1, "walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called." Please pray for your church and its members on a regular basis. Begin by asking God if there is anything blocking your prayers, or keeping you from spending time each day with Him in prayer. Sometimes unforgiveness is a block upon your prayers (Mark 11:22-26). IF there is a block. get rid of it. Your prayer life is too important to harbor grudges and unforgiveness.
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