THE BIBLE TELLS US that instead of worrying about things, we should present our situations to God in prayer, petition, and thanksgiving (see Philippians 4:6).
Several years ago, while my husband and I were serving as pastors at a church on the East Coast of the United States, a plea was made by one of the members. Sarah* walked into church while my husband gave announcements, and she shared some sad news.
“Pastor,” she said, “I need my church family to pray for me. I am pregnant, and my doctor cannot find my baby’s heartbeat. He told me my baby was still, and he would have to perform surgery to extract the fetus. I am devastated. I don’t know what to do. But I know there is a God in heaven who hears prayers, and I want my church family to pray for me. I believe God can perform a miracle.”
My husband, moved by a strong faith, invited the congregation to pray for Sarah and her unborn child. Our church members rallied around her, gently laying their hands on her in a gesture of unity as they raised their voices in sincere, earnest prayer. They implored God to safeguard Sarah’s life, ensure the birth of a healthy child, and bestow comfort and fortitude upon both the expectant mother and her unborn baby. In our prayers, we asked for a miracle according to God’s will.
Filled with the divine presence of the Spirit and unified in steadfast faith, the congregation raised a harmonious chorus of prayers for Sarah’s situation. Their prayers reverberated within the sacred confines of the church building, wrapping Sarah in a comforting tapestry of hope and unwavering belief in the Lord’s healing power. After we prayed, she went home trusting God’s will. Just a week later, Sarah found herself back in the confines of the doctor’s office. Her heart brimmed with anxious anticipation yet also gratitude for the collective prayers that were offered for her. As the doctor pressed the cool metal of the stethoscope against her abdomen and listened with absorbed concentration, a look of sheer astonishment transformed his countenance.
His eyes, wide with wonder, turned toward Sarah. In a voice imbued with awe, he declared, “This is a miracle! I found the baby’s heartbeat! Your baby is alive.”
A torrent of joyful tears cascaded down Sarah’s cheeks, a testament to her amazement at the remarkable faithfulness of God. She held an unshakeable belief deep within her soul that the collective prayers of her church had resonated within the celestial realm, provoking a mighty intervention from God Himself. The doctor, now privy to this extraordinary turn of events, conceded to the indomitable force of divine intervention, joining Sarah in her awe-inspiring reverence.
NOW THANK WE ALL OUR GOD
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Sarah returned to the church to share the remarkable news with my husband and the congregation. The sanctuary echoed with shouts of joy and heartfelt praises as the church celebrated the faithfulness of God and the answered prayers that had brought about this miraculous moment.
Sarah’s faith surged from that monumental day, her trust in God delving into newfound depths. Her odyssey became an enduring symbol of the might of faith, the resilience of a prayerful community, and the aweinspiring wonders that unfurl when God’s people unite. Holding her newborn close to her heart, Sarah whispered prayers of gratitude, her heart swelling with perpetual thanks for the love and prayers that heralded this cherished life into her world.
Her journey did more than just fortify her own faith—it acted as a beacon, deepening the faith of all who bore witness to this miracle. It served as a powerful reminder of the potential miracles that can occur when we unite in prayer and seek divine intervention, resulting in an overflow of gratitude for God’s extraordinary workings in our lives.
Cultivating a spirit of gratitude within our families and recognizing the unexpected blessings that surface within Adventist ministry not only enriches our lives but also fortifies our faith. By fostering a spirit of thankfulness, acknowledging the blessings woven into our ministry, and sharing tales of unexpected grace, we can uplift and inspire one another. Uniting with others in prayer gives us an opportunity to experience God’s power and love. Moreover, utilizing straightforward ministry tools can bolster
our service and disseminate the unique Adventist message.
Let’s give thanks for the privilege of being part of this ministry, continuously seeking ways to bless others as we navigate this faith-laden journey together. Remember to always ask, believe, and be thankful. This is the result: “The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7).
* Not her real name
