PRAY LIKE MOSES

Joshua and the chosen men of Israel were engaged in a fierce battle against the Amalekites in the valley of Rephidim, while Moses was praying for them atop the hill, holding the staff of God in his hand (Ex. 17:8-13). Whenever Moses raised his hand, Joshua's army prevailed, but when his hand grew tired and fell, the Amalekites gained ground. As the story goes, “His hands remained steady till sunset” (Ex. 17:12).

This story presents a profound image of God's missionary strategy. The outcome of the battle did not solely rest in the hands of the soldiers in the valley but relied on the intercessor on the hill.

As the battle persisted, Moses became weary. Eventually, he had to sit down, unable to stand any longer. When he could no longer lift his hands, Aaron and Hur came alongside him, providing support to sustain the ongoing prayer. One way or another, they kept the prayer going.

In the ebb and flow of the missionary endeavor, our praying hands, like those of Moses, may grow weary. But the hands of prayer must be raised, whatever it takes. We must strengthen the fraying cords, gather others to pray with us in order to “remain steady till sunset”. Only then will the enemy be overcome.

Therefore, let us pray together for the missionaries that the Lord brings to mind:

"Father in heaven, the nations tumult like roaring waters, but You reign supreme above the flood. The hearts of earthly rulers, even autocrats and tyrants, are like streams that You direct according to Your will. We implore You to bestow grace and strength upon Your missionaries, matching the demands of their calling. May they stand firm in the complete armor of God. Bless their marriages, families, and relationships with coworkers. Guide their labor. Safeguard their communion with You, and let nothing separate them from the love of Christ. May their own wrestling in prayer be persistent and unwavering. Send Your angels to assist them in this intense battle.

Enable us to be faithful holders of the rope. We acknowledge that our prayers have a profound impact on the world. Through prayer, mountains blocking Your work are moved, and amazing things that only You can accomplish come to pass. Often, You choose to act in response to the prayers of Your people. No request is too great or too difficult for You, Lord. Train us to persevere and pray with tireless hands, supporting one another and upholding those in the field with hands raised until the battle is won. We ask all this in the name of Jesus. Amen."