stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 1:19)

Once in college, I faced extreme opposition from inside and outside a church for which I was preaching a revival and leading worship. A group of guys from college found out I was preaching and singing at the church and began to make fun of me in the school cafeteria.  It almost made me not want to go to preach and lead worship! After the first night, the church pastor approached me and said my preaching was lacking and my worship was “too worldly” (I led with a guitar and keyboard, not the piano).  I wasn’t sure I was going back the next day! When I returned to school, I asked two of my roommates (both pastors in training) to pray for me because I was timid, discouraged, and defeated. Their prayers and encouragement reinvigorated me! The Spirit moved in me that night in my dorm room. I returned the next night, led the songs I did the previous night at the piano, and preached with a passion I attempt even now to resurrect most Sundays.  The week resulted in many salvations and changed lives (not because of me but because of the work of the Spirit).

Paul faced opposition from those who imprisoned him and from those who criticized him, yet his optimism shined through. Paul persevered, rejoiced, and expected deliverance in what would have paralyzed most ministers. He knew the Spirit’s power, presence, and provision trumped anything the religious or irreligious crowds could throw at him.   What can overcome a confident praying church filled with the Spirit of the Living God?  Nothing at all!  

Paul had ultimate confidence in the church’s prayers and the presence of the Spirit. Paul was sure he would be saved from death and pardoned from prison. Paul knew God could allow more imprisonment and even death.  Whether in chains or not, the message of Christ would prevail.  Perhaps he would be liberated and continue his gospel endeavors.  Maybe he would be liberated in heaven, and his martyrdom would embolden other believers. Either way, Paul’s unwavering hope in the church’s prayers and comfort in the Spirit’s presence is still necessary for believers to blaze gospel trails today. Fear fades. Worry withers. Doubts disappear. Nothing can stop a praying church dependent on the Spirit of God!  

Questions for the Head (Think)

• Have you neglected the ministry of prayer and the Spirit?  Are they your first ingredients in deliverance?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• What’s the condition of your prayer life and dependence upon the Spirit?  

Action for the Hands (Do)

• Spend time praying for those you know who need deliverance.  Ask the Spirit to minister to them and work in places you cannot.  Consider gathering 3-4 prayer partners weekly to pray for those needing deliverance, healing, and salvation. Expect God to move!