Observation: Two facts always go hand-in-hand: Where there is opportunity for kingdom work, there is opposition. And the greater the opportunity, the greater the opposition. Paul did his most impactful work when he was being bad-mouthed by a church, or beaten and left for dead, or hauled off to prison.
Application: Jesus himself said that the greatest work would be greeted by persecution and hatred. In fact, Jesus called that persecution a "blessing". James called it "pure joy".
I am witnessing a time of tremendous ... I don't even know what adjective to use, but they're all pretty negative. People are angry, petty, scheming, rebellious, hurtful, envious, deceitful, gossipy, bickering, judgmental. And now I know what that means: Something AMAZING is about to happen!! I am watching for where God is at work so I can join him there, and this is a sign - there is strong opposition, and in many regards it's unclear what the opposition is really about.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be part of whatever you are about to do. This could be pretty cool. I pray for the mature leaders of our church - those under attack, and those attempting to lead through the attacks - so that they may have the strength of Paul ... perseverance to run the race, and courage to walk full-force into the opposition they know is there, because they know the prize that waits on the other side.
And I pray for those who are angry and on the attack. They are suffering through some hurt or wrong, be it real or perceived, and the enemy has convinced them to place that emotion at the center of their daily thoughts. Please gently guide everyone back to their true center - the heart of Jesus and his service through our church.
Banish gossip from all lips, and replace it with the love that is to mark all believers. Our body will be strong together, and when we are, thy kingdom come!
Amen, and amen!
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