Join in my struggle by praying ...

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But before I come, I must go to Jerusalem to take a gift to the believers there. For you see, the believers in Macedonia and Achaia have eagerly taken up an offering for the poor among the believers in Jerusalem. ... Dear brothers and sisters, I urge you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to join in my struggle by praying to God for me. Do this because of your love for me, given to you by the Holy Spirit. -Romans 15:25-26,30 NLT

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Thousand of missionaries over thousands of years have been inspired by the travels of the Apostle Paul. Many who preach the gospel in other lands solicit donations for the work that they do in those places. I support several friends in other lands. That said, it is interesting to note here that the offering given to him was for "the poor among the believers in Jerusalem". I so admire this kind of love and care for distant believers, be they workers or those needing care.

I must admit, I find it easier to support those who serve overseas with money and often neglect to support them in prayer. Sometimes I think that is because I do not see their lives all that different than I see mine. Unlike Paul, these do not seem to struggle with enemies who try to kill them and thwart their ministry. That said, I believe that we are called by God to join in the struggles of others by praying for them. In this we show our God given love for those both near and far.

Open our eyes to the ways that other struggle Lord. Help us to join those struggle by praying for them.

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