Remove Strife! Increase Maturity! Focus
Hello, all Royal Prayer Guards and all those who join us online!
Colossians 4:2 (AMP)
Be earnest and unwearied and steadfast in your prayer [life], being [both] alert and intent in [your praying] with thanksgiving.
It's truly uplifting to see believers coming together to pray and support one another, especially for those who do not know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. May God's blessings and peace be with you and your family!
Key Points to Reflect On:
The Danger of Strife
Strife opens the door to confusion and "every evil work" (James 3:16). This emphasizes how damaging discord can be to the church's spiritual health.
Maturity in Christ
God calls His children to grow from spiritual infancy to maturity. Spiritual babies, while loved and nurtured, cannot engage effectively in the spiritual battles we face (1 Corinthians 3:1-3).
Avoiding Judgment
Judging others, even in our thoughts, can grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30) and perpetuate strife. Jesus' words in Matthew 7:1-5 remind us to focus on our growth and shortcomings before addressing others'.
Steps for Removing Strife:
1. Daily Repentance and Renewal
Pray for cleansing personal attitudes and thoughts that may contribute to strife. Psalm 51:10 is a great starting point: "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."
2. Promoting Unity Through Love
Reflect on Colossians 3:14: "And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony." Love is the antidote to division.
3. Promoting Peace
Seek opportunities to reconcile and promote peace within the body of Christ, following Romans 12:18: "If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men."
4. Avoid Strife
Do not allow strife to dock in your life.
Main Resources.
Click here. The Two Ships. Choose wisely. (Videos, audio, links, and much more)
Suggested Prayers:
Prayer for Unity
Heavenly Father, we pray for unity in the body of Christ. Let Your love bind us together, breaking down walls of division and strife. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Prayer for Maturity and Grace
Father, we ask for Your grace and strength to grow in spiritual maturity. Help us to walk in love, patience, and humility, avoiding the traps of envy and strife. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Prayer for Personal Transformation
Father, search our hearts and remove any root of bitterness or strife. Help us to be instruments of peace and reconciliation in Your church. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Thank you,
Pastor Vince Marino
Surefooted Ministries
Royal Prayer Guards