Today, we are dealing with “Prayer Points for the Church.” The Church is the Body of Christ, the Ekklesia! Our role as believers is not just to warm the pews but to intercede for the Body at large. As Apostle Paul instructs us in Ephesians 6:18, “Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.”
Why should we pray for the Church? The answer is simple: the Church is the light of the world, a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14). The devil is not happy with this, and he constantly wages war against the Church. So, we must arm ourselves with powerful prayer points to uphold and fortify the Church of God.
The Role of the Church in the World
Brethren, the Church is not a mere gathering of people; it is a divine institution established by Jesus Himself. “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). The church plays many role in the world today, including:
- First and foremost, the Church is a beacon of spiritual light. We are called to lead souls to Christ, to deliver the message of salvation, the Good News of the Kingdom of God. Ah, yes, we are fishers of men!
- The Church serves as the moral compass of society. In a world clouded by all forms of vice and immorality, the Church stands as a bastion of righteousness and holiness.
- The Church is also called to social action. Feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and ministering to those in prison or in hospitals (Matthew 25:35-36). We are the hands and feet of Jesus in the world today.
- The Church provides a community where believers can fellowship, encourage one another, and grow in the faith. “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24).
- Lastly but most importantly, the Church is a house of prayer. We are mandated to intercede not just for ourselves but for the world at large, for governments, and for those who are lost.
Challenges Facing the Church Today
For as it is written in Ephesians 6:12, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” So, it’s not surprising that the church suffers many challenges today. These challenges include:
- Spiritual Warfare: The Church is under a spiritual siege, fighting against principalities and powers. We must be armed and vigilant!
- Societal Pressures: The winds of cultural change are blowing strongly against the doctrines of the Church. There is a growing pressure to conform to worldly views, but we must stand steadfast.
- False Doctrines: Today, we see many churches swept away by teachings that veer away from Biblical truths. This is a challenge we must counter with the Word of God.
- Internal Conflicts: Issues like division, gossip, and lack of commitment among members also weaken the Church from within.
- Complacency: The Lukewarmness of believers is another challenge. Many are no longer zealous for the things of God, and this complacency can spread like wildfire.
- Financial Strain: Yes, even the work of God requires resources, and many churches are struggling financially, which can hinder the Kingdom work.
- Outreach and Evangelism: There’s a declining focus on soul-winning in some congregations, and this is indeed a serious issue.
My beloved in Christ, these challenges are not insurmountable. They are not bigger than our God. But they require focused, fervent prayer to combat and overcome.
Prayer Points For The Church
This is where we move from talking to action, from instruction to implementation! As it is written in James 5:16, “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”
- Father, I pray for unity among believers, just as Christ and the Father are one. Let every form of division be destroyed in Jesus’ name.
- Lord, ignite a hunger for Your Word and spiritual maturity among the members of the Church. May we grow in grace and in the knowledge of Christ.
- God, endow our pastors and leaders with divine wisdom and revelation to shepherd Your flock effectively.
- Jehovah Jireh, provide for the financial needs of the Church. Let every project and mission work receive supernatural funding.
- Father, draw our youths into a genuine relationship with You. Let them be zealous for the things of God
- Oh Lord, make us fishers of men. Let every evangelistic effort yield a bountiful harvest of souls.
- Holy Spirit, sanctify us. Let holiness and righteousness be the lifestyle of every member.
- Father, equip us with the whole armor of God to stand against the wiles of the devil.
- God, let our Church be a beacon of hope to the community. May we be Your hands and feet, meeting needs and showing love.
- Father, keep Your Church from the evil one. Protect us from attacks, both physical and spiritual.
- Lord, let signs and wonders follow the preaching of Your Word in our Church. Let the sick be healed and the oppressed be set free.
- Father, add to the Church daily such as should be saved. Let there be numerical and spiritual growth.
- God, strengthen the marriages and families within our Church. Let them be a reflection of Christ’s love for the Church.
- Holy Spirit, activate the spiritual gifts within members for the edification of the Body.
- Lord, empower our missionaries globally. Grant them favor and open doors for the Gospel.
- Father, let our worship ascend as sweet incense. May we worship You in spirit and in truth.
- Lord, teach us to pray effectively and fervently, individually and corporately.
- Father, burden our hearts for the lost. Give us the urgency to spread the Gospel.
- Lord, guide our leaders and give them wisdom to make godly decisions that will favor the Church.
- Father, send down revival! Let the fire of the Holy Spirit rekindle our passion for You.
Let us not just read these prayer points but actively engage in them. Prayer is the engine room of the Church.
