With the arrival of a new year, it’s always a good time to set intentions for how the Lord can use you to impact the world.
We wanted to set some intentions for the new year and hope you will join us in making at least one of the suggestions below a goal for 2023!
1. I will spend quiet time praying for the nations.
“The only condition that is to give worldwide power to this Gospel is prayer, and the spread of this Gospel will depend on prayer. The energy that is to give it marvelous momentum and conquering power over all its malignant and powerful foes is the energy of prayer.” – E. M. Bounds
The following prayer prompts were taken from Crosswalk.com:
Thank God for how He is working in the nations –“How awesome is the Lord most High, the great King is the Lord Most High, the great King over all the earth! God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne” (Psalm 47:2, 8).
Pray for unity in the body of Christ –“I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me” (John 17:23).
Pray for revival among God’s people – “Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?” (Psalm 85:6).
Pray for governmental and spiritual leaders –“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-2).
Pray that God’s people will walk in holiness and obedience –“Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God” (2 Corinthians 7:1).
Pray for the fear of the Lord – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7).
Pray for God to send His workers into the harvest field – “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20).
Pray that the Church will reach out to the poor, needy and imprisoned –“Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering” (Hebrews 13:3).
Pray for the salvation of the lost –“And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Acts 2:21).
Pray that God will use children and youth mightily for His glory – “At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children’” (Matthew 11:25).
Pray for just laws and righteous moral standards –“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).
Pray that the Word of God will be given its rightful place –“Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them” (Psalm 119:129).
Pray that Houses of Prayer and worship will start in every major city in your nation – “These will I bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:7).
Pray that God’s people will know how to effectively wage spiritual warfare – “Finally be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes”(Ephesians 6:10-11).
Pray the promises of God in His Word over the nations – “The nations will fear the name of the Lord, all the kings of the earth will revere your glory” (Psalm 102:15).
Praying for the nations has rewards that will endure throughout all eternity. This may be one of the most strategic things we ever do. One day we will worship God around the throne in heaven with people from every tribe and tongue and nation (Revelation 5:9).
We will then realize the value of every prayer we prayed for a nation while we were on the earth. Are you willing today to pray daily for your nation? Are you willing to invest your time in a task that is so rewarding?
2. I will find a missionary to support.
There are many missionaries and so many of them could use more support. Consider committing to supporting a missionary whether financially or through prayer. Get on their email list for prayer updates or make a monthly contribution! Pray and allow God to put on your heart the best way to offer your support to a mission work this year.
3. I will learn about an unreached people group and find ways to support their needs.
Did you know there are still people groups in the world who are unreached when it comes to The Gospel? Work towards finding out more about these people groups and pray about ways you can support their needs.
4. I will get to know internationals in my area and grow in my knowledge of their culture.
There are locals in your area who are internationals. Get to know them! Ask them about their culture and grow your knowledge this year! Take steps towards friendship with those who are different than you and widen your lens to be more like that of Christ’s and the way He sees the world!
5. I will memorize the Great Commission.
Memorize the following scripture: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 2and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” –Matthew 28:19-20
6. I will get involved in my church’s outreach programs.
Serve your communities and those around the world by getting involved in your church’s outreach program. If your church doesn’t have one, find out how you can partner your church with another local church! It’s important to be reaching out and serving those near and far in the name of Christ!
7. I will pray about the possibility of attending a medical mission trip.
Maybe this is your year to join a medical mission trip! We want to challenge you to pray about the possibility and encourage you to reach out to us with any questions you might have. We hope you will join us!
