Evan Roberts, a key figure in the Welsh Revival, prayed, “Lord, bend us.”

When we think of prayer, it’s often in the context of our plans. As one year winds down, we look forward to the next with its promise, and we pray. As important as it is to go before God and ask His blessing on our work, it is so much more important to simply go before Him and pray a prayer like that of Evan Roberts.

The 20-something coal miner was instrumental in the 1904-1905 revival that swept Wales, yielding more than 100,000 conversions at its height. His prayer may have been brief and humble, but it was also prophetic. Prayer that invites God to have His way must always precede the work of the Spirit.

I invite you into the same humility and trust that marked Evan Roberts. Let’s pray with a common heart for 21 Days of Prayer + Fasting, beginning Jan. 1, 2021. Let’s pray with purpose, as well.

Part of what drove Evan Roberts was a vision God had given him of 10,000 new converts. He was convinced that God wanted to do a new thing in Wales, and he was determined that the hearts of the Welsh people would bend before the Spirit. His confidence was not without precedent.

As Isaiah reminds us: “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” (Isa. 43:19, NIV).

Let’s focus these 21 Days of Prayer + Fasting on the new things God wants to do in the coming year. As you join us, you and your congregation will be fully supported with a daily Scripture meditation and prayer prompts to help keep our time focused and united.

I have always believed that prayer is one of the most important things a pastor can do, more so even than epic preaching or admirable leadership. The impact of committed prayer is the one thing that cannot be imitated.

Great speakers can give amazing TED Talks that feel life-changing. Singular CEOs will cast vision for groundbreaking companies that disrupt whole industries and revolutionize modern life. However, an anonymous man or woman who is willing to passionately pray before a living God has unparalleled influence. People like that can change the world. I believe that with all of my heart. Let’s pray together.


Commit to praying and fasting for the first 21 days of January by joining The Foursquare Church for 21 Days of Prayer + Fasting, Jan. 1-21, 2021. The theme is “All Things New.” Together, let’s set aside intentional time each day to pray. Prayerfully consider in advance what you might fast during this time period.
is president of The Foursquare Church (U.S.).
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