Opening Prayer

Father in Heaven, we praise You for the power of the Gospel, which truly does transform our lives from the inside out. We pray that by Your Grace, You will help us to become more like Jesus, in our words, in our attitudes and motives, in our relationships and in our actions and lifestyles, to the praise of Your glory. In Your Son’s merciful name we pray. Amen!

Scripture

Devotion

Following Jesus and embracing His Kingship has very real implications for our lives. Jesus’ way of living is completely contrary to everything else, whether secular self-help or religious self-righteous, for – as the Beatitudes taught us – who Jesus is and how His kingdom works turns everything upside-down. When we see Jesus for who He is, and we encounter His amazing grace, we discover that His grace not only saves us and forgives us but also empowers us to live radically different lives from what we used to live. Jesus’ Kingship and Grace call us to no longer live for ourselves but to live for Him and for others. Jesus’ Kingship and Grace turn our desires (vv27-30), our relationships (vv31-32), our words and commitments (vv33-37) even our hurts, relational difficulties and personal opposition (vv38-48) into opportunities to examine our hearts and to love and serve others. Because we are secure in Christ’s Grace and the love of the Father and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, we no longer need to be ‘takers’, rather we can become ‘servers’; those who love graciously and lavishly, even to the undeserving.

Intercessory Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, we pray for pastors and leaders everywhere. We recognise that this is a calling from You and it is not easy. We pray for their individual spiritual life. For discipline in prayer, listening to Your Word and regular time in Your Presence to reflect and receive directions for the future. We pray for their families who are often the people who suffer most as they seek to serve You. We also pray for regular Sabbath rest and a break from having to be on duty 24/7. Help us to support our pastors and leaders through regular prayer, words of encouragement and practical help. We pray for those who feel burnt out and are even considering stepping down. We pray that they are encouraged to know they’re doing Your Will. Jesus the Messiah, fill our pastors and leaders afresh with Your Precious Holy Spirit and equip them for the work You have prepared for them. May they not be ashamed to delegate jobs without feeling guilty. May You provide financially and spiritually we pray. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!