Over the years, I’ve made a habit of reading Oswald Chambers classic devotional My Utmost for His Highest for my daily devotions. I believe I began reading it while a student at Asbury Seminary in Kentucky since it was originally written for Bible School students. The old English was sometimes difficult to understand, but a few years ago I was given a modern translation by Robin’s mom which I’ve enjoyed reading.

The one thing about reading the Bible through several times is that you pick up on new understandings each time you read it. You also find yourself remembering passages that have spoken to you in the past with great affection. The same can be true of a classic devotional. I read the entry for October 17 a week ago and was reminded again of the crucial importance of prayer. I shared it with our staff and I’d like to share some of the highlights with you…

Prayer does not equip us for greater works--prayer is the greater work. Yet we think of prayer as some commonsense exercise of our higher powers that simply prepares us for God’s work. In the teachings of Jesus Christ, prayer is the working of the miracle of redemption in me, which produces the miracle of redemption in others, through the power of God. We must go to God as His child, because only a child gets his prayers answered; a “wise” man does not (see Matthew 11:25).

Prayer is the battle, and it makes no difference where you are. Never allow yourself this thought, ”I am of no use where I am,” because you certainly cannot be used where you have not yet been placed. Wherever God has placed you and whatever your circumstances, you should pray, continually offering up prayers to Him. And He promises, “Whatever you ask in My name, that I will do…” (14:13). Yet we refuse to pray unless it thrills or excites us, which is the most intense form of spiritual selfishness. When you labor at prayer, from God’s perspective there are always results.

I was especially struck by the phrase, “Yet we refuse to pray unless it thrills or excites us, which is the most intense form of spiritual selfishness.” Ouch. My lack of prayer is a form of spiritual selfishness. We also know prayerlessness is a sin. We have met as a church family for over two years now on the first and third Tuesdays of the month for prayer together. We call this time Overflow. Honestly, not many of you have participated. Maybe because it's not at a convenient time for you or it’s not a priority in your life at this time. Now some of you are volunteering at Whiz Kids on Tuesday evenings, so that’s a new conflict, but a wonderful ministry. We’re praying for you! Last time we gathered there were 13 of us including three new people. I noted it was the same size of Christ’s “Ministry Team.” We don’t always experience thrills (though I personally did last week!), but we believe with all our heart that our prayers are being heard and answered and that we are honoring God as the First Church family. How can prayer be a greater priority in our life together as it was in the original First Church? I’d love to hear your helpful ideas! Remember, “Prayer does not equip us for greater works – prayer is the greater work.” Do you sincerely want to see a movement of God in the OKC area? Let’s seek Him together!

For the sake of Christ,
Mark

P.S. Our next Overflow gathering is Tuesday, November 3, from 6:00-7:00pm. We’d love to have you join us!