Why I LOVE the Organized Institution of the Church

So many people today hate organized religion, and for many years I would have joined them. I've stated that we're not about religion but relationship. The organized church has certainly earned their hypocritical, corrupt reputation. Not all of them, mind you, just a few that spoil the whole bunch.

But the Church is the hope of the world. She is the conduit of God's Gospel and Grace to all mankind, and God loves His Church, the Bride and Body of Christ. And the LOCAL church is the "first name" of the Church. It's how people know who Jesus is and how His followers live and love. The local church is the hope of a community and neighborhood. While others depend on government, look to bailouts, or settle into despair, the local church rises as a beacon of hope and compassion.

PRAY for the LOCAL Church. Pray for Lifehouse and our Network churches.

Paul states, "since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you..." Col 1:9, NIV.

Let's be found faithful in praying for the local church, our family of God in the faith. Paul wrote his letter to the Colossians, sharing his love for them and the demonstration of that love in prayer.

How did Paul pray for the church?

• Thanksgiving- in Col 1:3,12, Paul says that he "always thank God" for the local church in Colosse. Take time to thank God for your church, her pastors, and for your community of faith.
• God's Will- next, in v.9, Paul says that he prays that they "may be filled with the knowledge" of God's will and with spiritual understanding. Pray for God's will over your church, and for God to guide the leadership with His vision through spiritual wisdom.
• Pleasing and fruitful- in v.6 & 10, Paul's prayer is so that they would please God and be fruitful. That is an important balance- both do what is right and pleasing to God AND be fruitful. If either are missing, then the church is unhealthy and missing her mission. Pray that your local church is FRUITFUL in reaching and discipling the unchurched.
• Strengthened- Paul's prayer, in Col. 1:11, is that the church would be strengthened through God's power with patience in joy! Wow! Pray that over your church and leadership! 

Please join Lifehouse Church today, during this season of fasting and prayer, in praying for us, the churches within our Network, and for your local church.