Prayer requests on the website are updated every Monday-Friday at 9:30 a.m., EST February 2, 2015 “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:1, NKJV) WORLD LEADER - “Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence” (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NKJV). Please pray for President Emanuel Mori of Federated States of Micronesia (between Indonesia and Hawaii). From Eleanor Witcher, associate director of IMB’s Office of Global Prayer Strategy, to “Today’s Prayer” intercessors: It’s funny when you work with a person for an extended period of time either your differences become increasingly apparent or you begin to think alike. At the end of 2014, I talked with a co-worker about wanting to write this particular newsletter, focusing on Ed Cox’s faithful service. Little did I know that he had already decided to write the January edition on the various responsibilities of our prayer office team. You see, Ed (Eddie) Cox officially retired on Friday, January 30, 2015, following 31 years of service with the International Mission Board. Ed probably wouldn’t authorize this newsletter if he had a chance to see it before we send it out; but he’s not in the office today, so we can sneak it past him. It has been my privilege for the last 10 years to work alongside Ed as he directed the strategy and day-to-day workings of the Office of Global Prayer Strategy. As a staff, we have watched the prayer ministry expand and extend into areas previously unknown. Ten years ago, smartphones had been invented but they and their apps weren’t an integral part of our vocabulary or culture. Today, mission videos, requests from adults and children, and information on unengaged, unreached people groups all appear on the CompassionNet app. Ten years ago, we weren’t in the arena of social media. Today, our missionaries’ prayer requests can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Ten years ago, the School of Prayer for All Nations had not even been conceptualized. Today, the School of Prayer meets 10 times a year, partnering with individuals and churches who are passionate for prayer and reaching the lost of the world for Jesus Christ. The prayer office will continue to serve and grow as the Lord guides our labors; but today, our first official workday without the boss, we are keenly aware of his empty office. Ed has been at the helm, steering the prayer office through multiple organizational and technical changes to remain focused on the vision—“Southern Baptists: a praying people impacting a lost world.” By serving intercessors globally, we have endeavored to help you be effective intercessors and passionate advocates, advancing Christ’s kingdom among all the peoples of the earth. Our desire has been for you, our partners, to grow closer to Christ through your fervent prayer. Where is the prayer request in all of this? Please continue praying for those of us who serve in the prayer office--as well as Gordon Fort, senior vice president for prayer mobilization and training; Randy Rains, associate vice president for spiritual life and formation; and Tina Simon, administrative assistant--as we seek a new daily equilibrium in our office structure. Intercede, too, for Ed Cox as he transitions into retirement. He has already started working and volunteering with children, young people, and senior adults . . . and his grandkids! He told us that his plans are to play, but we know Ed. He always seeks the Lord’s direction and forges forward with enthusiasm and commitment. If he is able to share his love for Jesus while playing, then Ed will play. If not, then you will see Ed all over town, quietly serving others. Please ask the Lord to bless the work of Ed’s hands and heart. Partnering with you in prayer, Eleanor Witcher, associate director Office of Global Prayer Strategy http://imb.org/pray |
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