What MUST We Do?

     Recently, we read again the book by Jim Cymbala, pastor in a Brooklyn church. Cymbala (without formal Christian education, unable to continue at the Naval Academy for health reasons) notes how he and his tiny congregation concluded that prayer is primary. Decades later, the Brooklyn Tabernacle draws thousands. A number of churches in New York City are an outgrowth.

     We are concerned how the new socialist mayor will treat the church.

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     Edward Bounds (1835-1913) was an author, attorney and clergyman well known for his emphasis on prayer. 

     He said, "For the church of God to accomplish God's will, it must have praying leaders. Leaders cannot lead in God's work without a relationship with God."

     "Much of the work of the church is done by those who are strangers to their closet. They cannot offer the 'effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man' - James 5:16.   

     "We pray as we live. We live as we pray. God proposes that we pray - in every place, in the church, in the closet, on Sundays and secular days. Everything is dependent on the measure of people praying."