Prayer Tip--Jesus and the Power of Community
Daily Scripture
Romans 12:1-6a, NRSV
I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.
For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgement, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
Right now, all around us, the noise level is rising. Election seasons are like that, and the level of chatter, argument, and sincere conversation are all at a record high. How is a concerned, caring, follower of Jesus supposed to handle this level of noise and conflict and be sure they are hearing God’s voice above the chatter?
Paul spoke to believers about being “transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you may discern what is the will of God–what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2) In light of this guidance, prayer becomes more important than ever–because that is how we “renew our minds” and learn to focus our thoughts, efforts, and action on “what is good and acceptable and perfect.” When we are feeling bombarded by voices, arguments, and conflicting information, time with God in silence and listening, gaining peace and renewal is the way to discern God’s will.
Prayer
Lord, you have promised peace and wisdom, and we believe. Surround us with your thoughts and guidance, help us focus on what we already know about what you desire for us, and help us be open to even more of your guidance and care. Renew us each day and each hour so that we may know what is good and acceptable and perfect. Amen.
GPS Insights
Jennifer Creagar
This week's prayer tip is by Jennifer Creagar, the Community Assistance Coordination Director in Resurrection's Congregational Care Ministry. She is married and loves spending time with her family, and she enjoys writing and photography.
