The Impact of Prayer
Dick Eastman, International President for GACX member Every Home for Christ, speaks about the need for the two streams of mission and prayer to flow together into one mighty river blessing the nations with the gospel. The prayer training and mobilization initiatives launched by EHC dramatically demonstrate the impact of this principle. Consider what has happened in the years immediately before and after the launch of the EHC’s Jericho Prayer Center:Before Prayer Center | After Prayer Center | Difference | |
Homes Reached | 106 million | 333 million | +212% |
Gospel Responses | 7 million | 51 million | +626% |
New Church Fellowships | 9,800 | 84,200 | +758% |
Finding a Prayer Igniter
Within a ministry or church, a prayer igniter models the “Pray-Now” lifestyle which encourages others to pray, both individually and corporately. In addition, he or she will plan, coordinate and lead the organization’s prayer strategy — both within and for the organization. A prayer igniter will only be as effective as his or her personal prayer life, someone who has deeply learned to abide in Christ. From that place of intimacy, he or she will inspire others to a life of prayer and intimacy with God. (Ps. 27:4; Jn. 15:5-8). This is a person who prays not for the sake of praying, but that God’s Kingdom would come in greater measure so that “the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD as the waters cover the sea” (Matt. 6:9-16; Hab. 2:14). Some personal characteristics of a prayer igniter could include:- Priority – The Prayer Igniter is devoted to prayer and praise. This is expressed in a “one thing” desire to see God and respond to his call to “seek my face.” (Col. 4:2; Ps. 27:4 & 8; Phil. 4:6-7)
- Persistent – The Prayer Igniter prays without ceasing at all times with all kinds of prayer. (1 Th. 5:17; Luke 11:8; Eph. 6:20)
- Purpose – The Prayer Igniter is focused on God’s glory and is alert to the needs of others. (Matt. 6:9-16; Eph. 6:20)
- Pray-Now Lifestyle – The Prayer Igniter lives in an atmosphere of prayer and catalyzes prayer in lives and organizations around them. (1 Tim. 2:1-4)
- Called by God (anointed)
- Recognized by Others (appointed)
- Model a personal prayer life (intimacy)
- Spiritually Mature (fruit of Spirit)
- Igniter Lifestyle (contagious)
- Able to teach/speak to communicate vision/strategy (prophetic)
- Time to make a difference (available)