Prayer for the church

​Lines are being drawn. The nation is becoming increasingly divided over national events over proper COVID response, political figures and posturing, and response to injustices. Families are being divided because opinions differ, and tensions are rising. Unfortunately, this has poured over into the church.
The Church cannot succumb to division.
Discussion of these matters is appropriate and encouraged. Dividing over them is not. Quarrelling and dividing is the work of the enemy seeking to destroy the church from within. Over the next several weeks I want to walk through a list of prayer ideas/topics regarding this situation.

1. Pray we would become James 1:19 Christians.
By nature, we are slow to listen and quick to speak, bringing devastating results. Long-time friendships are quickly disintegrated by our tongues (or fingers on social media). Scripture’s ideal for the church is to be a people who are quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. Discussion is encouraged. These things going on in the world should be talked about. Unfortunately, social media does not promote discussion; it develops division. And does it quickly!
But when discussing, let it be with marked words, giving careful and caring thought to those we engage. Much tension will be eased as James 1:19 is applied to our life.

​2. Pray our unity in Christ would stamp out division, Eph. 2:14-22 
Christ has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, uniting all in Christ together as one! We cannot divide what Christ has united. Though we may differ in opinions (and not in essential doctrine), we belong to the same Lord, indwelt with the same Spirit, belonging to the same Body. Unity exalts Jesus. Division within His Body dishonors Him.  Pray for our unity as we seek to glorify Him and not ourselves.

3. Pray that heavenly wisdom will infiltrate the Church, James 3:17-18
​We need wisdom! Worldly wisdom is self- centered, sin-based, and of the devil. That type of wisdom brings disorder and evil practices (3:16). Heavenly wisdom is of God. He is the source of true wisdom. His wisdom brings godliness. Take a closer look at these attributes: Peace- free from quarrelsome attitude. Gentle- respectful and thoughtful of other’s and their feelings. Willing to yield- listen to and even obey others, convinced when you are wrong and accept what is right or better. Full of mercy- demonstrates mercy freely. Good fruits--- life reflecting the righteousness of God. This is the wisdom we desperately need in this time.
Next week three more will be discussed for our benefit.