21 Days of Prayer and Fasting With Rock City ChurchSample

DAY 18: THE CHURCH

Read: Matthew 16:18; Matthew 18:20; Acts 2:42-47; Romans 12:4-5; Colossians 1:17-20; Ephesians 2:19-22

Jesus promises in Matthew 16 that Hewill build His Church and that the gates of hell will not prevail against it. The Church is not a building or a denomination but rather a community of believers. The Church is the body of Christ, and as such, it is our responsibility to care for it and to pray for it.

Knowing God’s heart for His people and the certainty of Jesus’ promise to build the Church, it is no surprise that it is under constant attack from the enemy. Satan is always looking for ways to divide and to conquer the Church, and he will use any means necessary to do it. It is crucial that we not only pray for unity within the Church, but that the leaders of the Church would have wisdom and discernment as they lead God’s people.

Ultimately, when the Church advances, the Gospel advances. And when the Gospel advances, people are saved. God is glorified through the work of His people, and when we gather together, His presence is magnified. So let us not grow weary in praying for the Church, that it may continue to be a light in the darkness and a beacon of help and hope to all who are lost.

PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, I lift up every church to You. Cover Your Church and protect it from the attacks of the enemy. I pray for supernatural protection over the leaders of my church. Protect their minds and hearts while building their leadership. Help our church maintain unity and keep our foundation rooted in the truth – Your Word. I pray over the advancement of the Gospel in and through the Church and that You would soften the hearts and incline every ear of those who step foot within the Church who have not yet given their life to You.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1. Why do you believe it is important to pray for the local church?

2. How is God glorified when the church gathers together?

3. What next steps can you take to play a role in advancing the Gospel through the local church?