Hollywood Prayer Network On DoubtSample

DO YOU DOUBT GOD'S LOVE AND FAITHFULNESS?

“My coming to faith did not start with a leap but rather a series of staggers from what seemed like one safe place to another, like lily pads, round and green, these places summoned and then held me up while I grew. Each prepared me for the next leaf on which I would land, and in this way I moved across the swamp of doubt and fear.” Anne Lamott

PRAY:  Lord, I believe that this story is for Christians who question Your presence and faithfulness in times when we are afraid. You tell us that anywhere, any time, and with anyone, to not doubt. Just like Peter in the boat, help me to stop doubting that You are present in Hollywood. Don't let me doubt that it is a place that can be redeemed. Help my doubt in thinking that Christians can't live, work, and especially minister in Hollywood. Lord, help my unbelief. Let me not talk against the people and the projects in Hollywood. Let me believe that You love those people as much as anyone else around the world and You are present there, like you are in the farthest remote people groups across the globe, or like you were with Peter in the water. I don't ever want you to say to me, "You of little faith." So, help me to embrace Hollywood and not question that You have a plan there, for the people, the projects, and the issues in that marketplace. Thank You Lord.

REFLECT:  Have you ever compared any place that you're afraid of with the water that Peter was walking on? We as Christians trust Jesus when we're safe, but do we doubt Him when we're in a scary place? Peter was actually walking on water as long as he kept his eyes on Jesus. But the moment he looked down he started sinking. Are you afraid of Hollywood or any other place where you think Jesus is not present? Are you looking up at Him when you think of Hollywood or are you looking down at the deep, dark waters? We will never see Jesus anywhere if we don't keep our eyes on Him, regardless of our circumstances or thoughts. When you think of Hollywood, would you look up and praise God for creating those people? Don't doubt that He is there and He's in control. Then you won't sink, and neither will any of us here, working in the entertainment industry!

ACT:  Take a moment to think through your honest thoughts about Hollywood and the people there who create our nation's entertainment. What are you afraid of? What are you angry at? What don't you like? Once you've defined your feelings and fears, can you now ask, "Is Jesus big enough, strong enough, omniscient enough, to be in control of loving, guiding, directing, and managing the people, the projects, and the issues in Hollywood?" Are you walking on water right now and calmly looking up at Jesus, or are you looking down into the deep, dark waters of Hollywood and doubting His presence there? Are you crying out, "Save them!" or is He saying, "You of little faith!" Release all your negative thoughts about Hollywood and watch your waters become still, as the wind of worry, anger, or fear die down.