The Church needs endurance!
I’m writing a series of prayers for the Church, offering a prayer on a different topic each week. So far, I’ve prayed for awakening, transformational leaders, urgency, hope, health, compassion, action, unity, power, and favor.
Endurance is an essential quality for followers of Jesus. And, it’s been on my mind a lot lately. Last Thursday, I preached about Jesus’ determination, persistence, and endurance (see Nothing Kept Jesus From the Cross). Yesterday’s sermon focused on persistence in prayer. Endurance is required!
O God, thank you for calling us and sending us into the world as witnesses of Jesus Christ!
We are witnesses of Jesus, who was crucified, buried, and then raised from the dead. Jesus said if the world hated him, it will hate us, too. Because of this, we need endurance!
Thank you, Jesus, for enduring the cross for the sake of the joy before you. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on you so that we will be able to endure the trials we face as your people in the world!
Your church is engaged in battle, not against flesh and blood, but against the spiritual forces of the evil one. Empower us to stand strong, dressed in your armor. Help us to keep moving forward as we advance your kingdom!
Thank you, Lord, that the gates of hell will not be able to stand against your Church. Thank you for being with us until the end of the age. And, thank you for sending your Spirit to be with us always. With your help, O God, we will endure to the end! Amen.
Randy Willis
Pastor
Follower of Jesus. Husband to Joleen. Dad to Ethan & Sarah. Pastor to Wehnwood UMC.