Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.
And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day (Genesis 32:24).
The message of the Gospel that's been committed to our trust is a pearl of great price. Therefore, we must see to it that it produces the desired impact and transforms the lives of those we minister to, by preparing their hearts to receive the Word; otherwise, the Word you share with them could be of non-effect.
The Gospel we've been commissioned to preach and teach is the only hope and power for the salvation of mankind. Therefore, the right prayer is very important for that message to transform lives. You have to travail in prayer; a form of agony of soul. In Luke 22:44, Jesus prayed that way: "And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground."
The English word translated "agony" is the Greek "agonia", which means struggle, as to fight; like you're contending with someone for something. It's a wrestle, a fight of faith, a contention for the souls of men. In this kind of prayer, you're literally trying to seize those lives from the stranglehold of Satan.
Take for example, the case of a Christian who has become carnal, and doesn't take spiritual activities seriously. You'd have to "agonize" and travail in prayer for him so he could become spiritual and passionate about the things of the Spirit. He may have been out of Church, but you've decided to go share the Word with him, to strengthen and inspire him. Howbeit, you must first prepare his heart through this kind of prevailing prayer. Otherwise, he may listen to everything you have to say, and remain the same. But you don't want it that way! You want a change.
Therefore, agonize for his soul, pleading with tears in your heart on his behalf to God, that He would grant him repentance unto the acknowledging of the truth. As you do this, the Spirit of God will move on his heart, and grace will be released on his behalf for a change.
PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for the power of prevailing prayers over those whom you've given me a responsibility to reach with the Gospel. I'm stirred today with renewed commitment, vigour and passion. I declare that the light of your glorious Gospel shines in their hearts, dispelling darkness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Further Study:
2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
Jeremiah 29:7 NIV Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper."
Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 5:1-20,
Genesis 12-14
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 7:12-21,
Nehemiah 9
Good morning and do have a wonderful day.
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