Scripture: Matthew 9:35–38
Devotion
“When we work, we work. When we pray, God works.” – Hudson Taylor
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by all the sickness and hurt in the world? Human trafficking, starvation, spiritual depravity, broken relationships, financial hardships… Do you ever just wish you could fix it?
Matthew 9:36 tells us that in the midst of traveling to towns and villages, healing every kind of disease and sickness, Jesus felt compassion for the people. He recognized how distressed and dejected they were, and He knew they needed so much more than physical healing, they needed the hope of the gospel.
Knowing the extent of the people’s needs, Jesus didn’t tell His disciples to roll up their sleeves, double their efforts, and work to exhaustion. Truthfully, that might have seemed easier than what He did ask. Look back at verse 38. When the need was great, Jesus didn’t direct the disciples to get busy recruiting. What did He tell them to do?
The needs of the lost and hurting are great. Yes, we should serve sacrificially, give generously, and have purposeful gospel conversations, but the needs will always outnumber our capacity. Instead of trying to fix and solve things ourselves, Jesus invites us to pray to the Lord of the harvest. When we do, we get to witness God doing what only He can do as He answers those prayers.
A Personal Prayer
Ask God to send workers into His harvest and to show you where He is calling you to serve. Pray for discernment to know when to act and when to trust Him to work beyond your capacity. Ask Him to align your service with obedience rather than striving, and to give you courage if He is calling you to step into a role or opportunity you’ve been avoiding.
Pray for Our Neighbors: Of One Accord Ministries
Of One Accord Ministries has been serving Northeast Tennessee for more than 30 years, addressing hunger, housing, and community needs through Christ-centered care. Programs such as meal delivery for older adults and the Lunch Box Mobile Summer Food Program extend compassion and the hope of Jesus to those most in need.
- Pray for the individuals and families served by Of One Accord to find hope, healing, and support through this ministry.
- Ask God to strengthen founder Sheldon Livesay, the staff, and volunteers with compassion and endurance.
- Pray for the continued success of their nutrition programs to bring nourishment and community connection to those facing food insecurity.
Pray for the Nations: Global Worker | Evelyn*
Evelyn serves among an unreached people group, discipling local leaders and providing administrative support for teams across several countries. She is focused on building relationships and finding community while adjusting to a new culture.
- Pray for Evelyn as she learns the local language and culture, asking for clarity, courage, and understanding in her daily interactions.
- Ask God to help her build meaningful friendships and connect with a supportive Christian community.
*Note: Name has been changed for safety.