They Did Not! We Must!

Posted by on July 2, 2000 under Bulletin Articles

Among the ungodly heart and mind conditions Hosea condemned in Israel was this one: Israel failed to include God in their decisions (Hosea 8:4). Brad, Ted, and I asked the elders to designate 24 hours as a time of special prayer for the congregation. God must be the foundation and the heart of our decision as we select additional elders. We request that members be at the building for a continuous 24 hours of prayer from 6 a.m. Friday, July 7, to 6 a.m. Saturday, July 8.

Room 100 (off the foyer) is designated for mixed groups (men and women) with men as audible prayer leaders. Room 106 (off the foyer) is designated for groups of women who wish to pray together. A sign-up sheet will break this 24-hour period into 30 minute segments. We ask for people to sign the sheet for specific 30 minute segments. This only means that you agree to be at the building at that time and will be in one of the rooms as coordinator. Anyone may come at any time and stay as long as they wish. You do NOT have to sign this list to attend. It is a “come and go” situation.

The prayer time may be used as those present wish: silent prayer, one group leader, multiple group leaders, chain prayers, or a mix of approaches to God in prayer.

Focus this prayer period on the congregation, its spiritual needs, and its spiritual growth and development. Some focus thoughts:

  • Praise God for the blessings He has given the congregation.
  • Thank God for the privileges enjoyed in being His people.
  • Seek God’s guidance as we select additional elders.

Ask God to:

  • Guide our hearts in our actions.
  • Shape our motives in our choices.
  • Work in the hearts of godly men to make this sacrifice.
  • Help us do everything with great sensitivity.
  • Encourage and uphold the wives of the men who agree to be considered.
  • Help us avoid creating pain and grief for these brothers and sisters.
  • Use this occasion to move the congregation to a higher level of love and caring.
  • Help the choices made advance His purposes in the congregation.
  • Help this congregation be what He wants and do what He wants.
  • Help us be a people who genuinely reflect the love and compassion of Jesus.