I didn’t realize the rut I had fallen into.
Our church had been growing, while I spent time just trying to keep up. But beneath the veneer of ministry “wins,” my vision was shriveling—and no one knew it. Not even me.
Through a series of pivotal moments, the Spirit began moving. Messages from Pastor Phil Manginelli and Northwest District Supervisor Dave Veach at conferences woke me from my slumber. God was stirring. Something needed to change. A week later, sitting in the borrowed office of a friend in New York and longing for inspiration, I opened to the Book of Acts.
I became fixated on Acts 13:3 where, after the church at Antioch “fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away” (NKJV). The conclusion that community of faith had drawn was that the gospel needed to go to new places in new ways.
I looked up from the page and out at the city skyline. And I began to ask the questions that reignited a passion in me during this season. As you read the Personal Prayer points below, pray these questions over your own life this week, and see what the Lord answers.
This Week’s Prayer Focus [5 in 5]
Personal Prayer
1. If we were the only church on the planet, and the expansion of this Jesus movement rested on our shoulders alone, what would we do? What would we try? Where would we go?
2. Take a moment now, and pray for the Lord to reveal fresh vision for new places and people.
3.While still pausing, pray for the Lord to address the fears, anxieties and disbelief that, in this moment, confront your kingdom-oriented dreaming. Allow God to instill His boldness and courage in you as a wise leader.
Foursquare Focus
4. Please pray for all Foursquare members serving on short-term missions trips with Foursquare Missions International. Ask the Lord to open new hearts to His Good News, and to energize and unify those ministering.
5. Pray for Don and Sandy Godwin, FMI Missionaries in Rosarito, Mexico, as they celebrate 10 years of serving as pastors reaching the locals and ministering to deported families.
Share your thoughts. See comments below, and add your own.
