Proof that one cares for missionaries is evidenced when one gives the very best, which is not just money or a "thinking of you" card, but intercessory prayer. Missionaries know that they "wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6:12). The only counteracting force against evil is the power of prayer.To the Christians at Thessalonica, Paul writes that he and his coworkers "give thanks to God always" for them in their prayers. While praying, they remember each believer's "work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3). Everyone should follow this example of Paul and his coworkers by doing the same in prayer: thank God for the SMS missionaries, remember their work of faith, remember their labor of love and remember their patience of hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. Prayer must be made that is fervent and effectual.
How can one in prayer give the very best to the missionaries of Slavic Missionary Service? Here are some specific examples. First of all, prayer reminders through the daily news can help you in your intercession. Economic, political, social and environmental problems all have an effect on the life of a believer. When you pray for situations here in the United States, pray likewise for missionaries who are enduring the same type of situations in other countries.
Secondly, prayer cards are helpful reminders to pray. To include the missionary's picture on the refrigerator or a prominent place in the home gives the missionary a visual place of honor to family members and can prompt one to pray every time that picture is viewed.
Thirdly, prayer letters define the details that need prayerful attention. After reading letters from missionaries, prayer becomes more significant when specific requests are offered and then "God sent" answers are received.
Finally, a prayer list is vital during one's devotional and daily fellowship with the Lord. It can include family and loved ones, friends and church members, specific ongoing situations, and of course, missionaries. Each name should be recorded; then, with eyes and heart open, one can intercede for each individual recorded on the list.
Fervent prayer avails much and is effective when uttered by the righteous. Prayer is the means of bringing down strongholds that are in opposition to the work of the kingdom of God. Therefore, be your best, give your best and great consequences will follow on the mission field.
Leon Chechowich,
SMS International Field Coordinator
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God -- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
John 1:12-13
