The Prayer League Handbook uses an interesting term: “Intentional Dependence.” The Handbook portrays this as the core principle of something we call “The Prayer League Way.” Jan Tollefson, one of our seasoned missionaries with many years of experience within our fellowship, summed it up for me: Dependence on God is not just an idea in our head. For us it is practical. It is what we do on purpose.
Jan gave me a couple of stories as examples from her time on the field. Whether it was going to the field with only meager support commitments, or buying a building for a Bible school, or buying a car without first having the funds in hand, trust in God was at the center. Intentional dependence meant moving forward on God’s direction with the confidence that he would provide the proper resources when needed.
This kind of trust is not for the faint of heart or the “name it and claim it” crowd. Perhaps, on occasion, you’ve come up with what you thought was a great idea and moved forward asking God to bless it. After all, didn’t he say ask and you shall receive? Then, after things started to go awry with your plan, your prayer changed to an anxious one of “Lord, help me!” I know that has happened to me. I have learned that a more humble seeking of God’s will in the beginning leads to less anxiety later.
The Prayer League Way requires a living faith. We believe, according to the Handbook, that we are called to pray. A living faith means walking in continuous union with Christ through prayer, faith and love, and acknowledging that all good things come from him. Jesus referred to this kind of relationship as abiding in him (John 15:4,5). Only through abiding in him will we be able to discern his will and avoid getting into a situation where we are asking him to bless our own agenda.
During our transition to new leadership at the Prayer League, it is critical that we continue in unity with Christ and each other, especially over the next few months as we might face some challenging times. Your prayers in this regard will be appreciated.
Pray also for the Lord’s provision as our missionaries received short allowances once again.