How to Change the Atmosphere

Five young college students were spending a Sunday in London, so they went to hear the famous Charles Spurgeon preach. While waiting for the doors to open, the students were greeted by a man who asked, "Gentlemen, let me show you around. Would you like to see the heating plant of this church?" 

They were not particularly interested, for it was a hot day in July. But they didn't want to offend the stranger, so they consented. The man took them down a stairway and quietly opened a door. 

Their guide whispered, "This is our heating plant." 

Surprised, the students saw 700 people bowed in prayer, seeking a blessing on the service that was soon to begin in the auditorium above. Softly closing the door, the gentleman then introduced himself. He was Charles Spurgeon.

It doesn't take 700 praying to make a difference in church services. Many years ago, my husband and I began meeting with a few others on Saturday night to pray for the services the next day. Our pastor, Dr. Dale Yocum, told one of our group, "When I walk into the pulpit on Sunday morning, I can tell if your group met for prayer on Saturday night."

Prayer changes the atmosphere not only in our churches but also in our homes. What a good reason to regularly pray with others.

Dear Jesus, keep us reminded that our prayers are more effective than Satan wants us to know and so are important.

"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you will receive it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11:22, 24).

If you are on Facebook, I invite you to pray along with Arla's 40-Day Prayer Challenge which is on Come to the Fire's Facebook page. Each day is a video of her praying scripture on a specific topic. Topics covered have included praying for healing, harmony, parenting, joy, protection, praying for others, forgiveness.