Pastor Steve Gibson
January 2021
We have a history of encouraging prayer at the beginning of each year. Ever since Jesus admonished His followers to watch and pray (Mark 13:33), was there one year when it would have been wise to skip an emphasis on time for prayer? Probably we would agree that every year is a great year to remember to pray — from the very start.
Our church has provided us with useful resources in making prayer practical as well as a time for meaningful fellowship. The website, www.revivalandreformation.org, is a hub for those wanting to seek God’s Holy Spirit in their lives and in our churches. On the site we are encouraged to plan for prayer and fasting on Sabbath, January 2. Then each remaining quarter’s first Sabbath (April 3, July 3, October 2) are likewise designated. Maybe you’ll want to put those dates in your phone or on your calendar.
There is even a daily devotional available on the site, as well as an option for United Prayer via Zoom. You don’t need to pray alone if you prefer to join others.
One other section on the Revival and Reformation site is the 10 Days of Prayer (www.tendaysofprayer.org)
This is a worldwide, annual opportunity to begin the year with a prayer focus. This year’s theme is Seeking Revival. The key text is Zechariah 4:6, Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit says the Lord.
Each of the ten days has a theme and accompanying materials:
January 6 – Jesus’ Most Precious Gift
January 7 – Grasping the Gift
January 8 – Surrender is the Key
January 9 – Putting Revival into Practice
January 10 – Spiritual or Carnal: What’s the Difference?
January 11 – God’s Solution to our Struggle
January 12 – Praying God’s Promises
January 13 – Obedience through Jesus
January 14 – Do I Work for God – Or does He Work through me?
January 15 – Seeking Revival Together
January 16 – Seeking God’s Spirit
For those who are inclined toward math, the above might appear like 11 days of prayer. Isn’t it wonderful that God is generous and gives us a free bonus?
If some of the topics above look like themes that speak to your heart, why not plan now to participate in prayer this January. Who knows, you might end up continuing a plan for prayer all through 2021. If we plan to be living soon in God’s presence, it makes sense that we spend some time getting acquainted. He’s looking for friends.