Pray It Forward

In 2014, God did some really great things at New Life and I learned a few lessons along the way.  When 2014 began, we were without a building.  As 2015 begins, we now have a renovated building and a list of new ministry opportunities which we hope to launch very soon.

Most of you probably remember the Pay It forward movement.  If you saw the movie, "Pay It Forward" (2000), then you understand the basic idea -- randomly show three acts of kindness (something a person can't do for themselves) and change the world.  It's a great concept!  

Another great idea has come along -- "Pray It Forward".  If you google that phrase you will notice that the idea has been around for a while.  In fact, pray it forward is a biblical idea.  Remember Joshua and the battle of Jericho?  God promised to give Joshua and the Israelites the city of Jericho.  All they had to do was "pray it forward" by walking around the city seven times on the seventh day.  God gave them the victory before the battle even started.

How about the healing of Naaman (2 Kings 5:1-19).  Remember his story?  Naaman was the captain of the army of Aram (Syrian or Aramean).  He was a warrior, but also leprous.  Although he wasn't an Israelite, he heard about the prophet Elisha from a servant girl.  When he travels to meet with the prophet with hopes of healing, he is disappointed by the prophet's command to wash in the Jordan river seven times.  At first he turns away, but then he "prays it forward" and goes and washes in the river.

What great need do you have that God wants to meet in 2015?  Is it the salvation of your spouse?  Is it the cure of your disease?  Is sit blessing for your children?  Or maybe spiritual and emotional growth in your own life?

What small or great promise has God given you that you are hoping to see fulfilled?  Is it the growth of your church or your career?  Is it the promise of debt-free living or peace in your home?

Over the next few weeks in January, I want to encourage you to -- 1) Identify a specific prayer focus, 2) Commit to memory 1 or 2 Bible verses which back up God's promise to you, and 3) Begin to consistently "Pray it forward".

I know God has some great things in store for 2015.  I believe that every failure in the Christian life is a prayer failure.  If you pray, pray through, and pray it forward, God's plans for your life will be fulfilled.

See you in 2015! Pastor Tom