Prayer Circle

^“We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.” 2 Corinthians 1:8-11

Would your marketing department create a Facebook post about all the troubles you are facing as a ministry? Probably not. We strive to manage our public image to make the best impression possible. Yet, Paul communicated raw, unvarnished reality about what he was facing. It’s really refreshing to read how transparent he was about his struggles.

The beauty of Paul’s communication is that he gave God the glory for delivering him time and time again. He emphasized that his trials forced him to rely on God and not himself. Then Paul draws the Corinthians into his struggles, “as you help us by your prayers.” Do you ask for prayer or only for money? Paul asked for both.

Maybe your newsletter or website are not the right platforms to share intimate requests. Consider developing an insider’s prayer email and invite your major donors to join in your spiritual battles. Then when God answers, they will give thanks with you because they are your partners in ministry. The more fervently someone prays with you, the more generously they will be prompted to give.

God bless,
Ron