“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (James 5:13-16).
The “power of prayer” is a term used frequently among Christians. It is something we say to someone going through a difficult time, or in need of encouragement. It is something we say to bring hope and comfort. But do we truly understand how powerful prayer is? There is a great responsibility for the Church to seek God’s will and direction for their ministry. The only avenue to seek God’s will is through God’s Word and prayer. “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words” (Romans 8:26).
Every ministry needs to begin with prayer. The Bible states many reasons for prayer. Adoration and praise for our Heavenly Father, confession of our sins, supplication, intercession, thanksgiving, prayers from the afflicted. These are just a few mentioned that are intended for each individual believer, and also for the Church as a whole. Our church leaders are instructed to pray with those sick and in need (v. 14). Jesus set the example by praying to His Heavenly Father in adoration, supplication, intercession, and thanksgiving. When we gather together with fellow believers, the Lord is with us, guiding us. What an awesome blessing to have the opportunity to share with one another our hopes, heartache, and joy. We are not alone as we share the connection of the Gospel message to the life issues.
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them” (Matthew 18:20).
Those of us involved with Renewal For Life® understand the importance of prayer. We encourage each Life Ministry individual and team to focus on prayer for the Lord’s leading. The RFL site offers opportunities for pastors and Life Advocates/teams to support and encourage each other through prayer. The FORUM has a section to ask for a specific prayer request. It also offers opportunity to give encouragement and helpful advice to someone in need. We have a section for worship service prayers for each of the life issues your congregation may encounter.
For more information on how you can become involved in Renewal For Life, please contact me at the LFL Life Center: 888.364.LIFE; jrichard@lutheransforlife.org.