A Prayer About Churches

A prayer about Churches - Appreciating the body of Christ

SPIRIT OF GOD,

As I travel through my community and beyond, I see church buildings of various types. In some towns, they seem to be on every corner. Although they have “Christian” and “church” in their descriptions, they differ in many ways: denominations, history, theological subpoints, worship styles, special ministries, service times, and more. And they seem to compete with one another as they advertise their events and programs. I confess that I’ve had those competitive feelings, wishing that people would go to my church instead of another. Yet I know that these Bible-believing, Christ-honoring groups are united, not divided, in much more important ways. Because you indwell every believer, those who belong to these groups also belong to your universal church. So Holy Spirit, I pray for these local churches, especially their pastors, staff, and other leaders. Thank you for calling them here and to their specific ministries. Encourage and strengthen them. And give them courage to boldly proclaim your Word, here and throughout the world. They are my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. Ephesians 4:3-4