As some of you may know, my church is going through a major transition. It is a difficult season. Some are questioning if we will survive this transition, many are disillusioned, many are grieving. But as we transition through this season, I have hope. I am encouraged.

My hope is not in the leadership at our church nor our governing body (although I have confidence in both). But my hope is in Christ. We, the Church, are His Bride. My church, your church belong to Him.

In theory, our local churches should be the safest place on earth. But in reality, the church has been the source of hurt. Many have been disappointed and scarred by the Church. So this morning, let us pray for our churches.

Pray for our Churches

“Father, thank you for my church. Thank you Father that you have assembled this Body of Believers together for such a time as this. You have a purpose and a plan for this church.

Father, I forgive by faith those who have hurt me within the Church, weather my current church or previous churches. Heal my emotional wounds. Let me be reminded that our leaders are not perfect but they are yours. Father, I repent of putting leaders on pedestals and requiring perfection of them.

Father, I repent of being a consumer of church. I repent of thinking, “How can the church meet my need.” Show me Lord, how I can be the answer for someone else. Reveal to me how my gifts and talents can benefit my local church. Open doors so that I may serve.

Lord, let my church become a safe place for people of all nations, tribes, and tongues.
Let us be a resource to our community, providing food and shelter to those in need.
Let us preach the gospel with power and in love.
Let us fulfill the great commission.
Let us demonstrate Mark 16:17&18.
Let us be your hands, feet, and your mouth.
We are your church. Beautiful. Glorious. Powerful. Loving.
Let us rise up and be who you called us to be.
Amen.”

“And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.””
‭‭Mark‬ ‭16:17-18‬ ‭NIV‬‬