Interruptions

I have had to interrupt publishing the posts for weeks 2-4 of my prayer journey due to a heavy workload, limited access to the internet and new developments that require me to stand in the gap for a particular family struggling to 'run in the right direction". As I asked those in my circle of influence to pray for this family and to help me stand in the gap for them, I was led to share the story I heard from Greg Laurie of Harvest Ministries.

A soccer team (football in the U.S) had just recruited a new player who although young and inexperienced, was considered a top athlete. For the first half of the game, the rookie was so nervous to be in a large stadium with a huge crowd that he hardley had any control of the ball. The team was losing and as the first half was about to end, the rookie in desperation got hold of the ball and started running with all his might towards the goalpost. The problem was that in his desperation and nervousness, he didn't realise that he was runing in the wrong direction and was headed straight towards the opposition's goalpost. Seconds before he was about to score a goal for the opposing team, the captain of his team caught up with him and tackled him to the ground, saving the day.

In the change-room at half-time, the rookie hung his head in shame as he waited for the coach to adminish him and kick him off the team. To everyone's surprise, the coach simply said:
"The same players are all going out for the second half".
The rookie looked up and protested:
"But coach, I can't go out there again! I embarrassed the team in front of millions of people."
"That was in the first half. This is the second half. Now get out there and show the crowd what you are capable of"
The team won hands down as the rookie scored goal after goal and he went on to become a star player.

Many of us spent years running in the wrong direction, winning victories for the enemy. Through it all, the Lord just patiently waited for us to come to Him and repent and then sent us back out to the world armed with renewed confidence in His wisdom, protection and guidance to show them what he has accomplished in and through us.
The family I am standing in the gap for at this time have a member who is still running in the wrong direction and the captain has been desperately trying to catch up to him before he scores a goal for the enemy. I have known this family for many years and know that as soon as they are playing on the winning side, they will be a family of star players.

Standing in the gap for individuals, groups or agents requires a different kind of prayer and application of God's Word. I won't have time to share this on the blog so if you need more information about this topic, please be patient until it appears in printed format - hopefully all teaching resources will be available in printed format by January 2009.

In the meantime, support is needed for projects being developed on the ground in Lesotho. If you would like tp partner in prayer or financially with mission teams in Lesotho, please visit www.jewelsofhope.org , www.sentebale.org or e-mail lmlesoth@ilesotho.com