We have partnered together to pray for one another for the last seven years. We meet sporadically throughout the year sometimes all six of us, sometimes a few of us.
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:3-6
Through the petitions of these prayer warriors those who have children and grandchildren, each name has been lifted to God’s throne. One mother has seen God redeem her son from an alcohol addiction and now Jesus is his addiction. Another friend has been undergirded as she walked through the last couple of years of medical school, first years of marriage, residency and board tests, and ultimately starting her medical practice. Prayers have been lifted as many of us have made moves during these years. Several of us have been covered in prayer through the loss of a father. These are just a few of the prayers we have lifted toward heaven together.
Words of wisdom and encouragement have flowed back and forth between us. Meals have been shared, hugs have been freely given, and the love of Jesus among us has been the cord that binds us together.
I am humbled by the prayers each of these women have lifted on behalf of me and my family. So this week, for days 21-25, I have opened cards and written a note for L, P, S, M, and M. I am grateful for these pray warrior women who have my back!
There are also two other prayer warrior women whom God has placed in my life the last couple of years. I am deeply grateful for their friendship and willingness to open their hearts. They have prayed for me and offered encouragement. For days 26 and 27 I drop a card to K and R, praying for them and being grateful for their prayers.
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Because I started a few days into October my card writing has carried over a few days. For days 28-31 I feel led to write a note of thanks to the men and women God has chosen as leaders in my life. One is the pastor and his wife of the fellowship we left in May. His teaching has always been challenging and encouraging. She has been an enthusiastic, fun leader for the children. Another is a women’s leader who gave me the courage to step out and participate more fully. I so appreciate her listening ear and then providing the opportunity for me to express God’s gifting. The last two cards I feel led to send to the current pastor and associate pastor. To pray for those who are in a place of leadership in my life right now.
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As I drop the last of the cards in the mail the phone rings. It is one of my long-time friends. God has timed the cards so that she receives my appreciation and affection the day her birth mom passes away. What an awesome God to care for her in such a tender way.
This challenge has opened my eyes and stirred my heart to see the wonderful, amazing people-gifts God has placed in this life. My life a string of knots and each individual a pearl on the thread.
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:15-16
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