And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus; and fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds. -Acts 19:17, 18 (KJV)
I have heard it said many times when God’s people begin to pray great things happen. Now, I realize using the word “things” will be frowned on by those who prefer better grammar. Good English requires an explanation of exactly what is meant by the word, so the need to be more specific is in order. When believers become committed to prayer we see a movement of God’s Spirit among individual Christians, families, the church, and the community. Allow me here to take this deeper and get even more detailed. As followers of Christ we are commanded in Scripture to seek the Lord in prayer daily and without ceasing (I Thessalonians 5:17). When this happens we see believers growing in their faith, reaching out in love to those around us, forgiving one another, testifying to the grace of God, and recommitting themselves to serving the Lord.
Personal renewal will inevitably move into the church as well. We see a renewed interest in worship and preaching. We witness an outpouring of the Holy Spirit as people are convicted of sin and moved to confession and repentance. We also see believers praying with greater urgency than ever before. The community at large will then be positively affected as the light of Jesus Christ shines forth as a witness to the love and power of God. All of this was taking place in Ephesus as described in Acts 19. The Holy Spirit was moving and working among the people in such powerful ways that a revival began. Reverence and awe came upon the people, the Lord Jesus was glorified, and unbelievers were confessing their sins to God and seeking forgiveness.
When God’s people begin to pray great things happen. I believe this statement to be true. What is the Lord doing in your life? Are you where you desire to be in your relationship with Christ? If not, begin to pray and seek the Lord. If you will seek the Lord in earnest faith and sincerity you will witness first hand a movement of God in your life unlike anything you have ever seen. Do not settle for lifeless, dull, shallow, and half-hearted faith. Move out deeper into the waters of God’s grace and power. Experience Jesus Christ unlike ever before.
A wonderful movement of the Lord is ready to happen in your life, the church, and community. What are you waiting for? It can begin today.
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