In Psalm 106:23 it is noted how Moses interceded for the people of Israel. Reading that verse yesterday reminded me of how Moses interceded several times in stressful situations. In fact the Bible draws our attention to several leaders and prophets who at different times interceded with God for Israel.
I want to encourage you today to keep, or to start, praying for those you know who serve God in another country. I am today thinking of four couples who really need people interceding for them. Two are in the Middle East, two are in SE Asia. I have visited with three of these couples in recent weeks. None of them are traditional "missionaries". All of them are involved in business or a profession. All of them are in their country of choice because they care deeply for the people. All of them could be involved in their home church and enjoying "the good life" back home. But they take seriously the words of Christ: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."
While these are solid, well balanced, steadfast disciples, none of them are very encouraged right now by the results of their ministry. They are working hard but finding the going tough. I wish I could give you their names and details but I can't. As I listened to their stories I was so impressed with their commitment and the price they are paying to be faithful to God's call and the Great Commandment.
And in each case, I so hope that their friends and supporters are interceding like Moses, David and the prophets. Believing God answers prayer. Believing that as Jesus taught, prayer does make a difference. Knowing that they really need God.
One of them said during our conversation: "You know I am thankful that things are so tough. Because it forces me to live dependent on God every day." Whew! In their situations, these folks do not take God or life for granted.
I hope you are praying for some folks like these that are on my mind and in my prayers.
I want to encourage you today to keep, or to start, praying for those you know who serve God in another country. I am today thinking of four couples who really need people interceding for them. Two are in the Middle East, two are in SE Asia. I have visited with three of these couples in recent weeks. None of them are traditional "missionaries". All of them are involved in business or a profession. All of them are in their country of choice because they care deeply for the people. All of them could be involved in their home church and enjoying "the good life" back home. But they take seriously the words of Christ: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me."
While these are solid, well balanced, steadfast disciples, none of them are very encouraged right now by the results of their ministry. They are working hard but finding the going tough. I wish I could give you their names and details but I can't. As I listened to their stories I was so impressed with their commitment and the price they are paying to be faithful to God's call and the Great Commandment.
And in each case, I so hope that their friends and supporters are interceding like Moses, David and the prophets. Believing God answers prayer. Believing that as Jesus taught, prayer does make a difference. Knowing that they really need God.
One of them said during our conversation: "You know I am thankful that things are so tough. Because it forces me to live dependent on God every day." Whew! In their situations, these folks do not take God or life for granted.
I hope you are praying for some folks like these that are on my mind and in my prayers.
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