Category Archives: PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!

Seeing Clearly Or Darkly??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #182

05 Monday Feb 2024

Posted by in 'Come unto me, Abiding In Jesus, Holy Living, Holy Spirit, I Know Whom I Have Beleived, I Will Never Leave You, Intercessors, JESUS, Jesus IN You!, Jesus IS The Gift!, Jesus Knows, Jesus Saves!, Jesus SinLESS Son of God, Jesus' Sacrifice, Jesus--our all in all, Life or Death?, Light In The Dark, Like Jesus NOT Each Other, Listening To God, Living in Christ, Living Right, Living TODAY!, Look up and Praise The Lord, Looking Unto Jesus, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?

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Seeing Clearly Or Darkly???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #182

One of my favorite parts of the book of Romans is chapter 8, and it is so full, but sometimes we work so hard to separate it into pieces that we forget it was written as a whole (in the whole book, as well as in the particular context of chapters), and Romans can be looked at in sections of chapters: 1-3; 4-5; 6-8; 9-11; and 12-15 and 16.  So as we consider this passage, I won’t take the time to post the entire chapter, although it would be of great benefit for you to read it all.  Let’s jump in and see what we can learn, but first of all a word from Paul’s message to the Corinthian beleivers about love, and seeing clearly, and knowing that God reveals things in His own time; also that we need to walk in love and maturity, not act like children.  There is a difference between “childlike” and “childish”, we need to examine our lives for we all have moments of “childishness” rather than being “childlike” in our faith and devotion to Jesus.

“When I was a child,

I spake as a child,

I understood as a child,

I thought as a child:

but when I became a man,

I put away childish things.

12 For now we see through a glass, darkly;

but then face to face:

now I know in part;

but then shall I know even as also I am known.

13 And now abideth

faith,

hope,

charity,

these three;

but the greatest of these

is charity.”  1 Corinthians 13:11-13

There is a time coming when we will have that “face to face” understanding, yet I believe that Paul is reminding us that until that day comes, we are to walk in the “love of Jesus” as mature adults!  Children operate in a world of “me” and “mine”, and they often aren’t happy when anyone touches “their stuff”.  Many adults today, even many beleivers in Jesus, often behave the same way; but Paul calls us to walk in maturity, with love in sight at all times.  In fact he calls us to walk as mature adults, with “faith, hope, (and) love”!  And where do we get this love?  Another of Paul’s truths which he shared with the Roman believers answers that question.

“And hope maketh not ashamed;

because the love of God

is shed abroad in our hearts

by the Holy Ghost

which is given unto us.

6 For when we were yet without strength,

in due time Christ died

for the ungodly.”  Romans 5:5-6

When we are saved, The Holy Spirit makes sure that the “love of God is shed abroad in our hearts”, may we share it generously!  So, let’s jump into Romans chapter eight and consider what else Paul has to say to us about love, maturity, and God’s work of salvation!  Thank YOU, Jesus!

“There is therefore now no condemnation  

to them which are in Christ Jesus,

who walk not after the flesh,

but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:1

This is one of my favorite verses of Romans, as it answers the question that ends chapter 7, and yet so many miss that this is the answer to “who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” (the sinful flesh in which we still live after our salvation until our physical death).  The answer is “The Holy Spirit”; as we walk in HIS power, deliverance rather than our flesh, we can walk in victory!  Oh, the beauty of God’s provision for us, “no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus”! (See John 3:16-19).  The reason that we are not condemned is because of JESUS’ death, burial, and resurrection to pay for our sin—mine and yours, as Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians. In my paraphrase, “Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, went to Calvary in my place—He took my sin, and imparted to me HIS righteousness.  Exchanged my dirty rags for His spotless robe!”  If I may, I’ll write out this verse with my commentary:

“For he–God

hath made him—Jesus–

to be sin for us, –the sinless paying the sinners’ debt–

who knew no sin;–Jesus was the sinless Lamb of God–

that we might be made—transformed by Jesus’ payment–

the righteousness of God—God making the vile holy–

in him. -It’s all about Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection-” 2 Corinthians 5:21

(He gave His all that we could be made holy.)

In Jesus, we find the place of forgiveness, righteousness, and the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, which brings us into the place of “no condemnation”.  Praise God for all that we have in Jesus, as well as what we have been released from!  So, let’s get back to chapter 8:

“2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus

hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

3 For what the law could not do,

in that it was weak through the flesh,

God sending his own Son

in the likeness of sinful flesh,

and for sin,

condemned sin in the flesh:

4 That the righteousness of the law

might be fulfilled in us,

who walk not after the flesh,

but after the Spirit.

5 For they that are after the flesh

do mind the things of the flesh;

but they that are after the Spirit

the things of the Spirit.

6 For to be carnally minded

is death;

but to be spiritually minded

is life and peace.”  Romans 8:1-6

Are we displaying the “things of the Spirit” and living as “spiritually minded”, or are we allowing the flesh to have sway over us?  Are we choosing “life” or “death”!  Choose wisely, there is a test; but Paul goes on to give us even more confidence in this work of salvation “in Jesus”!

“So then they that are in the flesh

cannot please God.

9 But ye are not in the flesh,

but in the Spirit,

if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.

Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ,

he is none of his…

…. 13 For if ye live after the flesh,

ye shall die:

but if ye through the Spirit do mortify

the deeds of the body,

ye shall live.

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God,

they are the sons of God.

15 For ye have not received

the spirit of bondage again to fear;

but ye have received

the Spirit of adoption,

whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit,

that we are the children of God:

17 And if children,

then heirs;

heirs of God,

and joint-heirs with Christ;

if so be that we suffer with him,

that we may be also glorified together.

18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time

are not worthy to be compared

with the glory which shall be revealed

in us.”  Portions of Romans 8:8-18

Oh, the glory of living for Jesus, by His Spirit, through His power and unto His glory!  A glory which we will see in Him when we see him in person, either when we leave this world, or when He calls us to Himself in the air!  But in this life, there are a couple of verses which we can often miss the import of, and I want to share them before we go into the last part of the joy, confidence, and assurance of the ending verses of this great and amazing chapter eight of Romans.  We have The Holy Spirit to not only help, lead, guide and direct our steps, but we also have one who intercedes for us when we don’t know how to pray!  I’m so grateful for HIS presence, HIS guiding hand, and HIS ever-present help in guiding our prayers be what they need to be –even speaking for me when I don’t know how or what to pray for–before our Father God, and our other intercessor, Jesus!  Thank you, Jesus, for this unspeakable gift of Your Holy Spirit to teach, lead and guide us in this dark place.

“Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:

for we know not what we should pray for

as we ought:

but the Spirit itself

maketh intercession for us

with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26-27

Even John reiterated this principle.

“And this is the confidence that we have in him,

that, if we ask any thing

according to his will,

he heareth us:

15 And if we know that he hear us,

whatsoever we ask,

we know that we have the petitions

that we desired of him.”  1 John 5:14-15

How often do we forget that prayer is our open channel to our Father God, whose will we are to pursue, knowing that HE is working all things to make you and me more like Jesus, especially  in this world that is lost and dying, and in need of Jesus more than they can ever know unless we not only tell them, but live it out before them; being mirrors of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ The Lord!

So, my friends I want to share this last part of Romans 8, simply sharing it for your perusal, praying that we may hear God’s voice speaking to our hearts, leading us to be more like our KING JESUS!

“And we know that all things work together

for good to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.

31 What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?

32 He that spared not his own Son,

but delivered him up for us all,

how shall he not with him also

freely give us all things?

33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge

of God’s elect?

It is God that justifieth.

34 Who is he that condemneth?

It is Christ that died,

yea rather, that is risen again,

who is even at the right hand of God,

who also maketh intercession for us.”  Romans 8:28-34

Oh how this great and amazing intercessor, Jesus, gives us even more confidence in HIS provision for us—even as I know HE is here, right now for I was just called to pray about an immediate need!  Thank YOU, Jesus!  Our Redeemer saves, transforms, and keeps His own!  But it gets even better as we continue in these final verses of the chapter.  I pray that it will grip, bless, and transform your day—and every day knowing all the joy of His presence, His work, and His love for you and me!  We win!!!

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

shall tribulation,

or distress,

or persecution,

or famine,

or nakedness,

or peril,

or sword?

36 As it is written,

For thy sake we are killed all the day long;

we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

37 Nay, in all these things

we are more than conquerors

through him that loved us.

38 For I am persuaded,

that neither death,

nor life,

nor angels,

nor principalities,

nor powers,

nor things present,

nor things to come,

39 Nor height,

nor depth,

nor any other creature,

shall be able to separate us

from the love of God,

which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”                    Romans 8:35-39

Oh, Praise God for His amazing grace, love, and care for us.  May you find God’s peace, presence, and power for your day.  Remember, “If God be for us, who can be against us?”; as I’ve said, we Win!!!

Amen and Amen!!!

Keep On Praying??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #178

25 Thursday Jan 2024

Posted by in A Call To Look Unto Jesus!, A Father's Love, A heart of faith, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Commitment Or Convenience, Confidence, Confidence or Presumption?, Confident Or Cocky?, Consider Your ways, Jesus Saves!, Jesus--our all in all, Praise Encourages our Heart, Praise God Today!, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?, The LORD GOD OMNIPOTENT Reigneth!, The Things of God, The Word, The Word Or The World?, They that sow in tears...., This is the Way, Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done

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Keep On Praying???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #178

I simply want to share some encouragement this morning for those of us (yes, me included—especially me!) who sometimes get a bit weary of waiting for the answers to our prayers; but I want us each to remember that we are encouraged to press on, for God hears and answers prayer.  Just don’t let popular twisting of scripture cause presumption in our hearts, minds, and theology to think we are able to “dictate” to God.  He is not a “heavenly slot machine”—where we just drop in our quarter of prayer, pull the handle and God is obligated to supply our “jackpot”; and I don’t mean to be crass, but so many today have believed a lie, that we can demand things from God and get them if we just have “enough faith”.  Well my friends we are called in scripture to pray, but nowhere are we promised that we will have things “our way”!  God IS GOD and we are not!  Jesus made it perfectly clear when HE told His disciples how to pray (not what to pray, but how to order our praying).

“After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven,

Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done

in earth,

as it is in heaven.”  Matthew 6:9-10

We are called, instructed by our Lord Jesus to seek God’s will, God’s kingdom, God’s name—not our own, not our own fleshly desires, but God’s will to the increase of HIS Kingdom, grow us in grace, and to the benefit of others.  It’s so easy to lose sight of the truth that we are the servant and Jesus and God The Father are the Master, King, and LORD in all things, yet we so often lose sight of the truth that “prayer” is a two-way conversation, but one where we usually do all the talking and often little or no listening or reading The Word to know His way!  God is speaking, but we are often not listening.

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying,

This is the way,

walk ye in it,

when ye turn

to the right hand,

and when ye turn

to the left.”  Isaiah 30:21

Let’s consider what God has said to us in His Word, and pursue righteousness, peace, hope and truth in all our ways, not the greed of the world.  And remember when things are found in multiple places in scripture it indicates that it is important and worthy of our due attention.

“For he that soweth to his flesh

shall of the flesh reap corruption;

but he that soweth to the Spirit

shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

9 And let us not be weary in well doing:

for in due season we shall reap,

if we faint not.

10 As we have therefore opportunity,

let us do good unto all men,

especially unto them

who are of the household of faith.”   Galatians 6:8-10

Scripture is so honest, and the arrows often prick my heart and soul, for, as we all do, I fall far short; Paul hits a big target on this instruction to the church at Thessalonica.

“For even when we were with you,

this we commanded you,

that if any would not work,

neither should he eat.

11 For we hear that there are some

which walk among you disorderly,

working not at all,

but are busybodies.

12 Now them that are such

we command

and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ,

that with quietness they work,

and eat their own bread.

13 But ye, brethren,

be not weary in well doing.”  2 Thessalonians 3:10-13

How do we maintain a consistent walk with Jesus?  By continual communication through prayer and walking in “The Spirit” instead of the flesh; which we can only do by being in The Word regularly.  If we don’t know what God has said, then we won’t know how we are to act, behave, respond, and care!  If you would, faith brings us into relationship with God and prayer keeps the line open—especially in the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit, who Jesus imparts to us at salvation (See Romans 5:1-11). May we ever pray as God leads our heart.

For those in desperate circumstances:

“And when he had apprehended him,

he put him in prison,

and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers

to keep him;

intending after Easter to bring him forth

to the people.

5 Peter therefore was kept in prison:

but prayer was made without ceasing

of the church unto God for him…

… 7 And, behold, the angel of the Lord

came upon him,

and a light shined in the prison:

and he smote Peter on the side,

and raised him up, saying,

Arise up quickly.

And his chains fell off from his hands…

… 11 And when Peter was come to himself, he said,

Now I know of a surety,

that the Lord hath sent his angel,

and hath delivered me

out of the hand of Herod,

and from all the expectation

of the people of the Jews.”    Portions of Acts 12:4-11

For one another, that we’d know God’s will in our lives:

“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all,

that your faith is spoken of

throughout the whole world.

9 For God is my witness,

whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son,

that without ceasing I make mention of you

always in my prayers;

10 Making request,

if by any means now at length

I might have a prosperous journey

by the will of God

to come unto you.”  Romans 1:8-10

For those whom we love and have invested in:

“I thank God,

whom I serve from my forefathers

with pure conscience,

that without ceasing

I have remembrance of thee in my prayers

night and day;

4 Greatly desiring to see thee,

being mindful of thy tears,

that I may be filled with joy;

5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith

that is in thee,

which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois,

and thy mother Eunice;

and I am persuaded that in thee also.”  2 Timothy 1:3-5

Knowing that God values our prayers:

“Thou tellest my wanderings:

put thou my tears into thy bottle:

are they not in thy book?

9 When I cry unto thee, (pray!)

then shall mine enemies turn back:

this I know;

for God is for me.

10 In God will I praise his word:

in the LORD will I praise his word.

11 In God have I put my trust:

I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.”  Psalm 56:8-11

Our prayers are never wasted, even when the answer is no or wait:

“And another angel came and stood at the altar,

having a golden censer;

and there was given unto him much incense,

that he should offer it

with the prayers of all saints

upon the golden altar

which was before the throne.

4 And the smoke of the incense,

which came with the prayers of the saints,

ascended up before God

out of the angel’s hand.”   Revelation 8:3-4

“And when he had taken the book,

the four beasts and four and twenty elders

fell down before the Lamb,

having every one of them harps,

and golden vials full of odours,

which are the prayers of saints.

9 And they sung a new song, saying,

Thou art worthy to take the book,

and to open the seals thereof:

for thou wast slain,

and hast redeemed us to God

by thy blood

out of every kindred,

and tongue, and people,

and nation;

10 And hast made us unto our God

kings and priests:

and we shall reign on the earth.”   Revelation 5:8-10

So, my friends, let’s press on faithfully in love and prayer, looking for our soon coming King.

“I press toward the mark

for the prize of the high calling of God

in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 3:14

Amen and Amen!!!

Prayed Up Or Made Up??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #175

14 Sunday Jan 2024

Posted by in 'Come unto me, A Call To Look Unto Jesus!, A Father's Love, A Form of godliness?, God's Righteousness Not mine, JESUS, Jesus Is Coming!, Jesus Is The Only Way!, Jesus Saves!, Jesus--our all in all, One Foundation, Only Jesus, Only One Way, Open The Door to JESUS, Paying attention, Power of Prayer., Praise God Today!, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?, Preach Christ and HIM crucified!, Preaching Jesus, Righteousness

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Prayed Up Or Made Up???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #175

I want us to change up today and look at the import of prayer.  We are called to be men and women of prayer and its place in our life will reveal itself in our everyday actions and interactions. There are so many things to consider, and we will find that our choices do make a difference.  Let’s take some time first of all to see what scripture tells us about prayer.

“Pray

without ceasing.

18 In every thing

give thanks:

for this is the will of God

in Christ Jesus

concerning you.

19 Quench not the Spirit.”  1 Thessalonians 5:17-19

God’s will for us is to pray “without ceasing”, to “give thanks” and to “Quench not the Spirit”; now that doesn’t mean I close my eyes driving down the highway to pray, but that my heart is ever sensitive to the voice and work of The Spirit of Jesus in recognizing His urging to pray for a specific thing or person even if I don’t know why?  It means that I am to be yielded continually to the work of The Holy Spirit and not reject it, ignore it, or discount the truth of HIS work in me/you!  Quenching the Holy Spirit’s work in us isn’t limited to willfully denying His direction but can be as simple as writing His prompting off to unimportant, or I’ll get it later, or even I can’t do that.  It’s going my way instead of paying attention to God’s working in me, leading me.

Jesus’ instruction to His disciples was simple but of great import; and it seems they missed the import—as we often do as well.

“Then saith he unto them,

My soul is exceeding sorrowful,

even unto death:

tarry ye here, and watch with me…

…. 40 And he cometh unto the disciples,

and findeth them asleep,

and saith unto Peter,

What,

could ye not watch with me one hour?

41 Watch and pray,

that ye enter not into temptation:

the spirit indeed is willing,

but the flesh is weak…

….. 43 And he came and found them asleep again:

for their eyes were heavy.

44 And he left them, and went away again,

and prayed the third time, saying the same words.

45 Then cometh he to his disciples,

and saith unto them,

Sleep on now,

and take your rest:

behold, the hour is at hand,

and the Son of man is betrayed

into the hands of sinners.”  Portions of Matthew 26:38-45

Jesus in His last hours asked His closest friends to “watch and pray” with Him, yet being weary and tired, they fell asleep.  Don’t save bedtime as your best praying time—most of us will fall asleep every time!  Let’s be faithful to our Lord and pray not only regularly, but at every prompting of The Spirit.

Jesus also gave us some hard instructions about prayer; for we are often willing to pray for our friends, but not those whom we have ill will toward.  Jesus said something unpopular and surely not easy, but doable in love and the power of The Holy Spirit.

“Ye have heard that it hath been said,

Thou shalt love thy neighbour,

and hate thine enemy.

44 But I say unto you,

Love your enemies,

bless them that curse you,

do good to them that hate you,

and pray for them

which despitefully use you,

and persecute you;

45 That ye may be the children of your Father

which is in heaven:

for he

maketh his sun to rise

on the evil

and on the good,

and sendeth rain

on the just

and on the unjust.”  Matthew 5:43-45

Prayer needs to be our “first things first” priority, not that we don’t have other obligations to meet, but we must not neglect prayer in all things.  The Apostle Paul reminds us that there are those times when we don’t know how or what to pray for in any specific situation, but don’t quit, when we don’t have the words—The Holy Spirit does—and I am abundantly grateful that HE does!

“But if we hope for that we see not,

then do we with patience wait for it.

26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities:

for we know not what we should pray for

as we ought:

but the Spirit itself maketh intercession

for us

with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.”  Romans 8:25-27

God knows and we can run to HIM in any situation, we can trust to HIS care and provision, for HE never fails.

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest,

that is passed into the heavens,

Jesus the Son of God,

let us hold fast our profession.

15 For we have not an high priest

which cannot be touched

with the feeling of our infirmities;

but was in all points tempted like as we are,

yet without sin.

16 Let us therefore come boldly

unto the throne of grace,

that we may obtain mercy,

and find grace to help

in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16

What about the ‘made up’?  Well, I could be talking about “makeup” and that could be a fitting contrast—as scripture has a lot to say about ‘painted eyes’ (a focus on the flesh instead of the Spirit”) but I’d rather talk about something Jesus talks about in His letters to the churches of The Revelation, particularly the church at Laodicea.  Jesus makes a contrast between having that which is really from God, and that which we have set as valuable in the flesh.  What foundation am I standing on?  Human wisdom or God’s wisdom and true salvation.  And remember this letter is to a church.

“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write;

These things saith

the Amen,

the faithful and true witness,

the beginning of the creation of God;

15 I know thy works,

that thou art neither cold

nor hot:

I would thou wert cold or hot.

16 So then because thou art lukewarm,

and neither cold

nor hot,

I will spue thee out of my mouth.

17 Because thou sayest,

I am rich,

and increased with goods,

and have need of nothing;

and knowest not

that thou art wretched,

and miserable,

and poor,

and blind,

and naked:

18 I counsel thee to buy of me

gold tried in the fire,

that thou mayest be rich;

and white raiment,

that thou mayest be clothed,

and that the shame of thy nakedness

do not appear;

and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve,

that thou mayest see.”  Revelation 3:14-18

Here Jesus calls those who “claim” His name and are in a church, to examine themselves (Paul also talks about this in 2 Corinthians 13:5 and also in 1 Corinthians 11:31-32) and in verse 19 of this passage He calls them to repent!  Jesus is saying the same thing that Isaiah talks about, we can’t do it ourself, our righteousness (so called) will never meet God’s standard!

“But we are all as an unclean thing,

and all our righteousnesses

are as filthy rags;

and we all do fade as a leaf;

and our iniquities,

like the wind, have taken us away.”  Isaiah 64:6

Jesus calls these people, this church, us, to examine ourselves to see if we have come to depend upon our own resources instead of the “blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin”?  How did they get to this point?  We don’t know, but we know that they had become so self-sufficient that they said of themselves, we “have need of nothing”!  And if we go on to look at verse 20, I ask you to examine where Jesus is?

“Behold,

I stand at the door,

and knock:

if any man hear my voice,

and open the door,

I will come in to him,

and will sup with him,

and he with me.”  Revelation 3:20

Did you notice?  Jesus is outside trying to get in—HE is knocking at the door calling to “any man” who will “hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him”!  This church is so ‘self-sufficient’ that they don’t even need Jesus!  Ring any bells?  What are you depending on?  Do you “have need of nothing”?  Does your church “have need of nothing”?  Is Jesus knocking at your door?  Are we trying to pass off our ‘filthy rags’ as “righteousness” to God?  It didn’t work for the people in Isaiah’s day, and it won’t fool God today!  It didn’t fool Jesus in the church at Laodicea!  I can’t help but believe that we may be there!

So, are you (or your church) prayed up or ‘made up’?  It’s your choice, but choose wisely, there is a test!  Make sure you’re ready today!  For “... behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” 2 Corinthians 6:2b

Amen and Amen!!!

Kneel To Prevent Stumbling??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #102

28 Wednesday Jun 2023

Posted by in A Father's Love, Abiding In Jesus, Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Advice for the journey, Kneeling Prevents Stumbling!, Praise God Today!, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?

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Kneel To Prevent Stumbling??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #102

“Confess your faults

one to another,

and pray

one for another,

that ye may be healed.

The effectual

fervent prayer

of a righteous man

availeth much.”  James 5:16

Prayer makes a difference, but oftentimes it isn’t what we think it is.  We think of “The Lord’s Prayer”, or one of Paul’s prayers, or going to church and bowing our heads, or even praying for someone in need; all of these things can be ‘prayer’, but there is so much more!  Paul hit the nail on the head.

In the midst of a long list of instructions to the Thessalonian believers, Paul helps us understand that prayer isn’t as restricted as we often think!  It’s not restricted to our “knees” or some of us senior citizens couldn’t pray, for our knees have long-since ceased to allow us to “kneel”, but I/we still pray.  For me, usually in my chair, in bed (but most often only to aid my sleep, for I know that praying and talking with God in bed will sooth my heart and mind and most often lead me into peaceful sleep–which is a good thing!)!  But don’t reserve your prayer time to bedtime or you’ll most often find that you fall asleep before you finish praying.  I often pray in my car where ‘me and Jesus’ (not good grammar but good theology–and with my eyes open!) have some of our best talks! Let’s peruse part of Paul’s list and then I’ll make a few comments and leave you to ponder these truths of prayer!

“Rejoice

evermore.

17 Pray

without ceasing.

18 In every thing

give thanks:

for this is the will of God

in Christ Jesus

concerning you.

19 Quench

not the Spirit.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16-19

If I may, I’d like to just paraphrase a bit of this for us today, to kind of “put a handle on it” for us!

Rejoice–always have a spirit of joy, not giddy, silly disregard for circumstances, sorrow, or grief, but the spirit of Jesus in us coming out so others can see HIS power to give JOY even in the midst of sorrow!

Pray–always have a mindset of God’s presence, and a continual conversation with HIM…knowing that Jesus’ is with me even–no especially–in the times I don’t know what to do.  To remember that prayer is a two-way conversation and that listening to God’s voice is even more important than the sound of my own voice.  Always being ready to talk to God in the everyday circumstances of life–driving, washing dishes, planting flowers, or shopping (shopping is one of our greatest missed opportunities to hear God’s voice urging us to speak to someone, or see a person short of some cash in front of us) seeing opportunities to minister Jesus to ‘people’ in real ways, not just talk!  That’s praying ‘without ceasing’, not going around ever falling on our knees physically, but staying on our spiritual knees before God.  As I heard recently, “it’s hard to stumble on bended knees”!

Be thankful–not giddy in difficulty but having that permanent ‘attitude of gratitude’, ever knowing that God is working “all things” to make me more like Jesus–you know, The ONE who walked up Calvary’s hill for ME and YOU!  Using our resources, talents, and energies to serve God and others, not spending them whining (did I just say that?)

Yielding–to the will of God in all things, showing the world that when I say, “I trust HIM”, it shows!

Quench NOT–not being so busy that we don’t hear the voice of the Holy Spirit directing us in a particular direction–especially those we don’t expect!  Being in an attitude of prayer that keeps my heart open to God’s unexpected surprise opportunities of service.

All of these things are part of praying “without ceasing” –not going around with our eyes closed, but having a heart and mind set on God, talking to Him, listening when HE speaks, especially in that “still small voice”, directing us in unexpected ways and places!  Yet oh, what delight when we hear and obey, and watch God work where we never expected it or saw it before.  God’s always on HIS throne, waiting for us to heed the opportunity to be with HIM and reflect HIS glory to a lost and dying world!

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest,

that is passed into the heavens,

Jesus the Son of God,

let us hold fast our profession.

15 For we have not an high priest

which cannot be touched

with the feeling of our infirmities;

but was in all points tempted

like as we are,

yet without sin.

16 Let us therefore come boldly

unto the throne of grace,

that we may obtain mercy,

and find grace to help

in time of need.”  Hebrews 4:14-16

Praying for YOU!  Amen and Amen!!!

Faith Isn’t Arm-wrestling??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 20

14 Monday Nov 2022

Posted by in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Faith, Faithful, Faithful Follower, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Faithfulness, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Press ON!

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 19 No. 20 Faith Isn’t Arm-wrestling???

We live in a culture that tries to reinvent ‘faith’.  And while “Faith Isn’t Arm-wrestling” with God, there are those who equate faith with speaking our will into existence–with or without any regard for God, His Word, or His will.  Then there are those who say all we have to do is think positive and it will happen–kind of ‘cartoon’ mentality!  Then there is the mindset of “chase ‘your’ dreams”, and you will attain them; and the “pray harder” theology.  Well, I’d like us to take a look at what I believe to be a biblical view of faith (and praying in faith).

“Now faith is

the substance of things hoped for,

the evidence of things not seen…

… 3 Through faith

we understand that the worlds were framed

by the word of God,

so that things which are seen were not made

of things which do appear…

….5 By faith

Enoch was translated

that he should not see death;

and was not found,

because God had translated him:

for before his translation

he had this testimony,

that he pleased God.

6 But without faith

it is impossible to please him:

for he that cometh to God

must believe that he is,

and that he is a rewarder

of them that diligently seek him.”                            Portions of Hebrews 11:1-6

Let’s consider this powerful passage, part of the often called, “Chapter/Hall of Faith”, and see what scripture clearly tells us about faith. The word “substance” in verse one, among other things, means a firm assurance or confidence; kind of like the confidence and assurance one places in a lifesaver that is thrown out to save them from drowning in the ocean.  Jesus is our literal ‘lifesaver’, THE “life-saver” who paid for our sin that we might be saved from sin, hell, and eternal death at Calvary! And the word “evidence” means just that, but much more, to quote the Greek Word Study Dictionary, by Spiros Zodhiates, “implies not merely the charge on the which one is convicted, but also the manifestation of the truth of that charge…”! Hence telling us that faith is real because God has proven Himself faithful at every turn.  He has kept HIS Word and He has fulfilled HIS promises to date (and the ones still pending will come to fulfillment just as surely!)!  The author of Hebrews assures us that our faith helps us to understand God’s truth as creator, as well as redeemer; and that without faith, no matter how “outwardly good” we may appear to others, we cannot please God without faith!  Not just meaningless words, but a true and confident belief that “he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him”!

Did you notice that it’s not just simply speaking words but a belief in who God is, and HE knows who is “diligently” seeking HIM!  Are we seeking God, or just wanting to convince HIM to do our will, to meet our demands, and make us “happy”!  Let me assure you, God is more concerned with our “holiness” than our “happiness”, considering that “happiness” regards our circumstances not our character.  Paul tells us in Romans what God is working toward!

“And we know that all things

work together for good

to them that love God,

to them who are the called

according to his purpose.

29 For whom he did foreknow,

he also did predestinate

to be conformed to the image of his Son,

that he might be the firstborn

among many brethren.

30 Moreover whom he did predestinate,

them he also called:

and whom he called,

them he also justified:

and whom he justified,

them he also glorified.”  Romans 8:29-30

 God’s purpose is that we will “be conformed to the image of his Son”!  He isn’t as concerned about our comfort, as He is about our conformity to the “image of his Son”!  If I may, God wants us to reflect the glory of JESUS, not the popularity of the world!  Our payday (reward) isn’t usually here, it is yet to come!

Jesus makes it very simple and clear what our focus is to be–in our life, in our prayers, and in our choices.

“After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father

which art in heaven,

Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come.

Thy will be done

in earth,

as it is in heaven.”  Matthew 6:9-10

Are you and I ready to seek God’s will and God’s kingdom to come within us and be reflected outwardly to a lost and dying world who needs Jesus?  Am I willing to forgo my own desires to pursue HIS?

“Trust in the LORD

with all thine heart;

and lean not

unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways

acknowledge him,

and he shall direct thy paths.

7 Be not wise

in thine own eyes:

fear the LORD,

and depart from evil.

8 It shall be health to thy navel,

and marrow to thy bones.”  Proverbs 3:5-8

 God also has promised us who have received the new birth in Jesus, that His Holy Spirit will interceded for us when we don’t know what to pray for, and those times when we just can’t find words or wisdom.

“My brethren, count it all joy

when ye fall into divers temptations;

3 Knowing this,

that the trying of your faith

worketh patience.

4 But let patience

have her perfect work,

that ye may be perfect and entire,

wanting nothing.

5 If any of you lack wisdom,

let him ask of God,

that giveth to all men liberally,

and upbraideth not;

and it shall be given him.

6 But let him ask in faith,

nothing wavering.

For he that wavereth

is like a wave of the sea

driven with the wind

and tossed.”  James 1:2-6

Our great comforter is ever working in, through and for us; and when James speaks of “want” he isn’t speaking of our fleshly desires but God’s work and provision to bring us to maturity and glory in HIS presence as HE works in and through us.  James wants us to understand that real faith stands fast in WHO God IS, not just what He does!  Yet, there’s more!

“Likewise the Spirit also

helpeth our infirmities:

for we know not

what we should pray for

as we ought:

but the Spirit itself

maketh intercession for us

with groanings which cannot be uttered.

27 And he that searcheth the hearts

knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit,

because he maketh intercession

for the saints

according to the will of God.”  Romans 8:26-27

What amazing promises, not so that we can twist God’s arm to get what we want, but that we can be in perfect harmony with our Lord Jesus as we pray, seeking HIS “kingdom” and HIS “will” to come in our hearts, our lives, our ministries, our families, and our testimony before this lost and dying world.  They don’t need our boasts of our own power, but the confidence in a God who is “good all the time” for “all the time GOD IS GOOD”!

We all have times when we are confused, but often our confusion comes when we have failed to seek God first!  I know I ‘wrestle’ with this continually.  So often the demands, pressures, physical issues, emotional hurts, and just LIFE gets between us and God.  That is when we must, I repeat–we MUST–turn to God and HIS Word to find our lodestar again!

“Humble yourselves therefore

under the mighty hand of God,

that he may exalt you

in due time:

7 Casting all your care

upon him;

for he careth

for you.

8 Be sober,

be vigilant;

because your adversary the devil,

as a roaring lion,

walketh about,

seeking whom he may devour:

9 Whom resist

stedfast in the faith,

knowing that the same afflictions

are accomplished in your brethren

that are in the world.”  1 Peter 5:6-9

Praise God for HIS gracious care toward us, and may we pursue HIS will, rather than dictate to HIM!

“Ask,

and it shall be given you;

seek,

and ye shall find;

knock,

and it shall be opened unto you:

8 For every one that asketh

receiveth;

and he that seeketh

findeth;

and to him that knocketh

it shall be opened.”  Matthew 7:7-8

 Notice that Jesus said to ask, seek and knock to receive, find, and have doors opened (in HIS time); He did NOT say “demand”, “decide for yourself”, or “push the door down”!  And if we back up to chapter 6, we’ll see the context of truth that we can’t overlook.

“But seek ye first

the kingdom of God,

and his righteousness;

and all these things

shall be added unto you.

34 Take therefore no thought

for the morrow:

for the morrow

shall take thought for the things of itself.

Sufficient unto the day

is the evil thereof.”  Matthew 6:33-34

 We are to pursue God and “his righteousness” and rest in His faithful provision for us; knowing that He has called us to be faithful fathers and mothers, faithful employees, faithful students, pastors, wives, husbands, caregivers, cooks…we could go on, but I think you get the picture, for our call is to take in the ‘whole counsel of God’ (The Bible–all of it) which calls us to be a reflection of HIS faithfulness in all we do, not just our ‘religious’ activity!  It’s one of the reasons that I believe we have become so powerless in our churches; we have chosen busy-ness rather than faithful holiness; we have compromised in almost every area of Holy living, to be popular and ‘fit in’!  Well, my friends I choose Jesus!  How about you?

I close with one of the most powerful, but often written off to children’s verses or funeral passages, scriptures that help us know that we can rely upon our God.  We aren’t to arm-wrestle with our God but love and devote our lives to trust in HIS care!

“The LORD is

my shepherd;

I shall not want.

2 He maketh me to lie down

in green pastures:

he leadeth me

beside the still waters.

3 He restoreth

my soul:

he leadeth me

in the paths of righteousness

for his name’s sake.

4 Yea, though I walk

through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil:

for thou art with me;

thy rod

and thy staff

they comfort me.

5 Thou preparest a table

before me

in the presence of mine enemies:

thou anointest my head

with oil;

my cup runneth over.

6 Surely goodness and mercy

shall follow me

all the days of my life:

and I will dwell

in the house of the LORD

for ever.”  Psalm 23:1-6

Is HE your shepherd?  I pray that God’s Word will direct, comfort, and encourage your heart today!  Blessings on your day–

Amen and Amen!!!