Then the churches throughout all Judea, Galilee, and Samaria had peace and were edified. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, they were multiplied. Acts 9:31
This verse became a memory verse for me many years ago. As a Christian, I pray this verse for Christ’s Church. As a pastor, I pray this verse for Grace Bible Church.
Lord, grant Your church peace. Our world is so filled with strive, envy, discouragement, and hatred. Deliver us from these evils I pray, and may we instead enjoy the peace that comes only from knowing, loving, and walking closely with Jesus.
Grant that we may be edified. O Lord, may we be built up (for that is what edification means) in our knowledge, faith, and love for our Savior, and for each other in Him. Do not let us settle into complacency, or plateau in our spiritual growth.
May we walk in the fear of You, Lord. I thank You Lord that we need not fear Your wrath, because Jesus has already received it all on Himself in our place. But may we not be too casual with You, or even in our thoughts and words about You. Rather, may our lives be marked by a holy reverence, not only in Your presence, but in every thought of You.
May we walk in Your comfort, Holy Spirit. Though there is much in this world and in our lives that would disquiet our souls, may we find comfort and joy in You—in knowing that You love us, that Your Son died and rose for us, and that we are filled and sealed by the Holy Spirit.
And may we grow in number. We do not ask for this growth so our church can appear bigger for the sake of our renown. But may we see more people—many more people, coming to faith in Your Son, Jesus, and growing in Your grace—for Your glory.
Amen.