A few weeks ago, David Steere brought a helpful, though challenging message on the need for, and urgency of persistent prayer. He directed us to the parable of the widow seeking justice from the unjust judge, with Jesus’ assurance that, if she was able to persist to the point that the judge granted her request really just for a quiet life, how much more would our just God answer our prayers when we cry to him. But there has to be determination and persistence on our part to expect those answers.
How urgent do you feel about your praying? Are the spiritual needs of your friends and family at Rehoboth something that really burdens you? If so, you will be wanting to join with us both in your private praying, but also by being present at our arranged times of prayer. We are praying for real guidance towards the appointment of a pastor to lead our eldership team and we need your support in that—urgently.
This month we have two venues each Wednesday evening for prayer and Bible study. Please look at the venues and try to attend one or the other. Or there is our regular prayer time on Saturday mornings at the church at 8.45am for no more than three quarters of an hour. And especially Saturday 28th September, instead of early prayer, will be our BIG PRAYER time, from 10 –12 noon. Please make a special effort to join us, even if only for half and hour to pray with urgency and persistence.
An old hymn written by William Cowper has been on my mind on the subject of prayer. Please meditate on it
What various hindrances we meet in coming to the mercy-seat?
Yet who that knows the worth of prayer, but wishes to be often there.
Prayer makes the darkened cloud withdraw, prayer climbs the ladder Jacob saw;
gives exercise to faith and love, brings every blessing from above.
Restraining prayer, we cease to fight; prayer makes the Christian’s armour bright;
and Satan trembles, when he sees the weakest saint upon his knees.
While Moses stood with arms spread wide, success was found on Israel’s side;
but when through weariness they failed, that moment Amalek prevailed. Have you no words?
ah, think again, words flow apace when you complain;
and fill your fellow-creature’s ear with the sad tale of all your care.
Were half the breath thus vainly spent, to heaven in supplication sent;
our cheerful song would oftener be, “Hear what the LORD has done for me.”
O Lord, increase our faith and love, that we may all thy goodness prove,
and gain from thy exhaustless store the fruits of prayer for evermore.
William Cowper, 1779
Steve Piggott
Elder
Sept 2013
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