21 Days of Prayer

January 14, 2020

One of the most significant things I ever get to do as pastor of NewPointe is call this incredible and devoted group of Christ-followers to 21 Days of Prayer. I am excited as I consider what God will do for us and through us once again!

January 12 through February 1 is the time period for our joint prayer period. Why are we setting aside a specific time to pray together? Because we are on a great mission. God has given us huge opportunities and responsibilities, and prayer is the key to all of it. Everything NewPointe desires to do and see happen in 2020 is tied to prayer—prayer is the key.

If you are a Christ follower, prayer is likewise the key to everything that you value. Your marriage, your parenting, your work, your relationships, your finances—success in every way is connected to your prayers. That is because prayer is moving beyond the natural into the supernatural.We are moving beyond what we can do in our own power to what only God can do.

Since that is true, we need to develop a vibrant prayer life. The key is to understand our spiritual authority in Christ as explained in the Scriptures.

Take a look at Luke 5:16. It says, “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” Just like you and me, Jesus had a busy and demanding life. He needed a break to recharge His batteries by spending time with His heavenly Father. The stories of Jesus’ life in the gospels are told to give us examples to follow. Even though Jesus was actually God Himself, He didn’t depend on the fact that He was God to meet His challenges. He wanted to be a Savior who knew what it was to be a human so He could truly help us. When He was exhausted, troubled, or in need, He would withdraw to a quiet place to meet with His Father. The time He spent in prayer changed His perspective, plugged Him into God’s power, and kept Him true to His purpose. That’s what always happens when we meet with the Father.

Prayer is one of the most powerful weapons God has given us. As I look ahead at 2020, I am convinced that it has never been more important for God’s people to be on our knees. We are the hope of the world as we stay connected to Jesus Christ. But knowing how to pray is not always simple or easy. It can feel as though our thoughts are so simple and ineffective that our prayers are worthless.

Jesus’ disciples felt the same confusion and inadequacy. They were familiar with and memorized the prayers of the Torah. They knew what they were supposed to say at certain times and certain festivals. But Jesus prayed in a new way. He prayed with a kind of power and authority and confidence they had never experienced or seen before. He was clearly aware that God was listening. Jesus talked to His unseen Father as if He were right there, anxious and ready to respond to His requests. He had power and peace when His time with the Father was finished.

So when the disciples came to Jesus, they didn’t say, “Teach us another prayer. Give us some special words to memorize.” They said, “Lord, teach us to pray.” And the chronicles of the early church show they were just like Jesus. Their prayers filled them with power to accomplish the mission Jesus gave them, peace in their challenges, and His presence with them always.

That is exactly what we need as we advance into 2020. I have heard that prayer is “advancing on your knees.” That’s what we need. I challenge you to ask Jesus, “Teach me to pray,” and be part of a mighty movement of God.

Prayer is God’s great gift to His followers. This is our time.