Over the past few days, I preached and then have written (here and here) about living as a unified church in divided days. Talking about unity is great, but my sense at this time is that we need more than talk…we need to take a step. And so, I’d like to encourage us to pray about unity. I’m offering a brief reflective prayer tool below that you could use on your own or with others. It is built around a series of questions that could lead you to reflective confession and intercession. But first, I think it is important to just take a moment to be still. So why don’t you take a minute or two (you may even want to set a timer) to still ourselves before God.
First, we know that the essence of our kingdom life is focused on Jesus. It’s all about Jesus. So let’s prayerfully consider this question:
How do I need to return to the truth that life is all about Jesus and God’s Kingdom?
- maybe something else is distracting us at this time
- maybe we’ve become confused about what is most important
- maybe there are ways we need to simply say again to the Lord: “it’s all about you…but I’ve lost my way”
Take several minutes to reflect on these questions and consider what you might need to ask of the Lord in your own life or in your church family.
Now, consider with me a second question that is particularly pertinent as we have walked through great seasons of difficulty. Many times we can point the finger at our circumstances or at others as the source of our problems. However, as we continue to let the Holy Spirit search through us, consider this:
What do I need to lay down at the foot of the Cross, specifically surrendering it to Jesus?
- maybe there is a fear that has gripped our heart
- maybe there is anger that is stewing within us
- maybe there is bitterness that has hardened within your soul
- Regardless of what might be there, what do we each need to lay down at the foot of the Cross during this season?
Take several minutes to reflect on these questions and consider what you might need to ask of the Lord in your own life or in your church family.
Finally, prayerfully consider this question:
How is God specifically calling me to love others and support the unity of the church during this season of time?
- maybe there is a specific person that comes to mind that we need help loving
- maybe there is situation or environment that is difficult for us to engage in because of past experiences or hurts
- regardless of what is there, in this moment let us hold it up to God and ask Him to help us grow in love and unity
Close out your time with several minutes of stillness before the Lord. Let God speak to you about what you have just walked through in prayer. Thank Him for His goodness and grace in your life and ask for His power to walk in a manner worthy of the calling you have received in Christ.
Renovate 