This resolution of Daily United Prayer is based on An Humble Attempt, originally put forward by Jonathan Edwards in 1748. Its design is to encourage God's people in the duty of united extraordinary prayer; setting aside some time every day to pray for the revival of His church and the advancement of Christ's kingdom in our homes, in our churches, in our nation, and in the world.
Today is 9/11. There is a phrase is associated with this day which is simply, "Never Forget." It seems, sadly, we have already forgotten. We are forgetful creatures and it is often why we need to have tangible reminders to help us remember what should not be forgotten. The most striking example of this is perhaps the Lord's Table itself. It was instituted so as to cause us to remember and not stray too far from what Christ has done for us. "This do in remembrance of me." 1 Cor 11:24. It seems insane that His blood-bought children could forget the Lord, but it happens all too often.
In Genesis 21:33 we read, "Abraham planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the LORD, the everlasting God." What is the purpose of adding that little phrase, "Abraham planted a grove"? Why doesn't it just say that Abraham called on the name of the Lord there in Beersheba? I believe Abraham had a desire to plant something permanent by way of a marker or memorial not only for himself, but also for any future generations to come. We see this pattern repeated elsewhere throughout Scripture. It's a very important point. We easily forget what should not be forgotten and we need to be constantly reminded. What we are doing here in these prayer times is not our own invention. We are looking back through Biblical history and church history and observing the "groves" or "memorials" that were left for us by our spiritual forefathers. We have been given clear instruction that when we are faced with calamities, famines, plagues, and pestilence, we should, as they did, turn to the Lord with all of our heart and all of our strength.
Do not forget. Let us learn from the past.
"But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." James 1:25.
DAILY UNITED PRAYER unitedprayer.net
Mon-Fri @ 12pm EDT // Sat @ 10am EDT
We invite you to join our dedicated and earnest group of praying participants of all ages from around the world that meet every day over Zoom to pray. At the start of each prayer call, a different individual will bring a brief Scriptural meditation. Here's the most recent: