I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. – Philippians 1:3-5
The older I get, the more I understand Paul’s enthusiasm. Paul realized he could not do this thing called ministry alone. It really does take a team to do God’s work. I love the word “partnership” in the above verses. That’s what it is. Paul gathered a group of people around him who took ownership in what he was trying to accomplish. They had a vested interest in his outreach. After all, the church at Philippi was so grateful that he had brought the gospel message to them; now they partnered with him to share the good news with other groups.
How did those people help? Well, later on in Philippians, Paul thanks them for their monetary gifts. In other letters, Paul thanks local churches for their prayers and their interest in his work.
Writing can be a solitary sport. Knowing that people are interested in my work and actually pray for me means so much. Many days, remembering someone’s enthusiasm for my writing, a question about how it’s going, or a “I love your blog” replays in my head and keeps me at my keyboard a little longer. Well, that and I’ll disturb the dog if I get up!
Who is your partner in ministry? Who’s rooting for you? If you don’t have a prayer partner, find one! If you have someone in your life who encourages you to hang in there, be a Paul and thank the Lord for that individual. If you are the prayer partner, know that your prayers are like a sweet aroma to the Lord. Your prayers are important!
PRAYER UPDATE:
Praise: Our church’s Vacation Bible School is off and running and going well.
Praise: I’ve had wonderful feedback about the new look of “Grace on Parade.” Thank you!
Praise: A magazine contacted me today about a query I submitted. They ahve asked me to write an article for them!
Prayer: My agent is sending out book proposals of my latest novel to several publishers this week. Pray they will be receptive.
Prayer: My daughter returns from overseas this weekend then must turn around, move to a new city, and start a new job in the middle of next week. Pray that the Lord smooth our path as we help her move, strengthen her, and keep her healthy.
Prayer: I’m working this week to map out ideas for the Grace on Parade blog. Pray for God’s guidance in my thoughts and my writing.
Yes I do! I do thank God for each of you who are praying for the Grace on Parade ministry.
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