As friends, members, adherents, elders and ministers in The Presbyterian Church in Canada, we are fervently praying for the 148th General Assembly in Halifax from June 4-7, 2023. We are praying in advance for the commissioners, the moderator, the clerks, the General Assembly Office and all of those who have a role of some influence on the gathering.
In each of the four weeks leading up to GA, we will be publishing a fresh prayer guide, each with its own theme.
The desires of our sinful nature are powerful. We have limited ability to resist. That’s why we see so much in the way of “sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties” and other sins like these (Galatians 5:19-21). We are called, as follows of Christ, to be better. First, to be aware of our sinful nature. Second, to seek spiritual assistance – because we are powerless on our own. We are invited in Ephesians 6:13 to “put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.”
An assembly of God’s people is a target of the enemy and a potential spiritual battleground. We seek the peace of Christ, who wants us to be One with Him.
A prayer guide for the week to come:
Monday – Holy God, may your commissioners be reminded of the need to be equipped with spiritual armour in advance, so that when the court is convened, they may be strong.
Tuesday – Father, we lift up the moderator-elect, grant her wisdom, provide her with strength of mind and body. Protect her from the evil one.
Wednesday – Father, we ask that you imbue everyone who is called to preach and meditate during General Assembly, may they seek your Divine truth and resist any temptation to provide what our itching ears want to hear.
Thursday – Holy Lord, we commend to you those who have been called to bring their musical talents to worship – may the words they choose to sing call us to purity and devotion.
Friday – Gracious God, we lift up the Clerks of Assembly and General Assembly Office. Surround them with strength and peace as they prepare to be hosts.
Saturday – Father, we ask that the Holy Spirit ignite a fresh desire among all commissioners to call upon the Lord for spiritual assistance as they read the reports and discern their responses.
Sunday – Father, we seek your hands of protection around St. Mary’s University, the local hospitality teams and those working behind the scenes.
Amen.
First week: God’s will be done
Last week: Discernment
Next week: Fresh fruits of the Spirit. No sour grapes!
We are blessed with a prayer room at GA, which will be staffed by RF executive director Andy Cornell. We are looking for volunteers for our GA Prayer Room via Zoom. Email <renewalfellowshippcc@gmail.com>