21 Days of Fasting & Prayer Devotional – Day 4: The Salvation Of Others
The Kingdom of God is open for anyone and everyone to enter! As followers of Christ and as part of a local church, our hearts should be concerned with inviting others into the Kingdom that God is bringing here on earth; showing them how escape the gates of hell and to walk through the gates of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Even though it’s God’s will that all would walk through His gates and everyone is invited, this unfortunately doesn’t mean that everyone will enter into the Kingdom of God.
“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.” Matthew 7:13-14 (NLT)
“Jesus replied, ‘I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.’” John 3:3 (NLT)
As we pray and fast, these words of Jesus are a powerful reminder that there are those in our lives who have not yet turned to take the “narrow road” and walked into the Kingdom of Heaven. This realization should create a sense of urgency in us to be steadfast in prayer for those in our lives. This isn’t to discount the impact of sharing the gospel, telling your testimony or inviting someone to join you at church –– these are all great things –– but the work of salvation belongs to the Holy Spirit.
Our time in prayer for others is not wasted but is part of the Kingdom work God has given to us. This work will not always easy and the results may not fit within our timeframe, but we consider it an honor that God would allow us to be a part of seeing someone enter into His Kingdom.
PRAYER PROMPT:
Today as you pray and fast, write out the names of different people you know that are not followers of Christ. Ask the Holy Spirit to convict their hearts, show them their need for God, and to lead them to repentance. Reach out and let them know that you are praying for them and allow the Holy Spirit to lead you in what to say to them.
