We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters,about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. 2 Cor. 1:8-9
Dear heavenly Father, I’m so glad my fellowship with you this morning is filled with a renewed heart, fresh encouragement, and grounded hope; for I’ve just seen what you can do with weary hearts, stuck marriages, and disconnected friends. I’m profoundly grateful (and certain) that your name is Redeemer.
As Paul wrote, you are “the God who raised the dead.” Not only have you raised the Lord Jesus on our behalf, but you also bring his resurrection power to bear, in the dead places of our hearts and relationships. And one Day, you will complete the grand story of resurrection by raising our bodies from the dead, and ushering in the new heaven and new earth. We praise you for a sure and living hope, than meets us in our hopeless and death-plagued places.
So Father, I boldly pray today for other friends, acquaintances, and strangers. I pray for those who are feeling under “great pressure, far beyond their ability to endure”; including those who may even be “despairing of life,” in their relationships—in marriage and parenting, extended family and friendships.
Grant, one and all, the freedom to cease relying on ourselves, that we might abandon ourselves to you, Father, and the resources of the gospel. Melt frozen hearts with your grace and soften hard hearts with your compassion. Confront stubbornness with your mercy and grant repentance through the disarming power of your kindness.
Where there is harm, bring healing. Where there is excuse making, bring peace making. Where evil is lurking, bring the power of Jesus’ cross and crown. Where issues are quite complicated, bring the wisdom of the ages. Break strongholds of contempt with the strong grip of your love.
Father, you have guaranteed that one Day we will be made perfect in love (1 Jn. 3:1-3). Grant us the firstfruits that hope for this day. So very Amen we pray, with humility and gratitude, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.
