Ephesians 6:18–19 (NIV) “18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel,”
During this time of year, we seek to strip selfish desires and set our focus upon Christ. In recognizing that we are nothing more than dust on our own without the breath of God in us and the Spirit of God moving through us. In this humility, we find our fullness in the grace and love of God.
When Christ is center, we also find that unnecessary stresses and concerns fade away creating space to have more fully the mind of Christ and heart of God in which we have eyes to see that which concerns God, a heart that breaks for what breaks His, and a desire to serve and not to be served. Our prayers begin to match those encouraged and requested by Paul in the passage above from Ephesians 6 becoming prayers of petition and intercessions. With that, our goals and actions become more kingdom-oriented.
Yesterday as I went before the Board of Ministry, I coveted all of your prayers. I shared a part of my call story that many of you may not know. As a child I had a lot of ear problems causing me to mishear things and in turn mispronounce them. Though I tried to talk, people couldn’t understand me and I felt unheard. Through much speech therapy, I became better able to speak words clearly, but expressing my thoughts in words is still very difficult. As my walk with God grew and he taught me about His Word, I had the desire to share them with others but a difficulty doing so. I began to pray constantly that God would connect my heart, mind, and lips to share of His goodness. It is a tremendous joy every time that God miraculously uses me despite my struggles. As I read verse 19 this morning, I related with Paul who sought the Spirit to grant Him words and guide his tongue. How beautiful it was to think that so many people were praying for my tongue and the words that I would say at yesterday's interviews not knowing how I struggle.
I am excited to share that your prayers served well. Though I felt that I had no words left by the end of the day, I was approved by the Board of Ministry, and they will be making the recommendation for me to be ordained this year at Annual Conference.
Many Thanks to my church family,
Pastor J.P. Snyder
Question: Similar to my struggle speaking, is there anything in your life that may have at one point seemed weak or broken which God has resurrected into new life and purpose for His kingdom and Glory? In even the smallest things let us rejoice together in the good work God has done! :)
Carrollton First UMC (Yellow Brick Church & The Bridge) We are 1 Church in 2 Locations offering 3 Worship Opportunities
Our mailing address is:
253 South Lisbon Street, Carrollton, OH 44615
