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  • Michael Summers 11:03 pm on May 22, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer, , ,   

    Outraged about Prayer 

    I have read several articles and blogs by people who are outraged about prayers for Oklahoma tornado victims and are calling for the people who pray to actually do something. They don’t seem to realize that many of the people who volunteer or send donations and the organizations that show up to help are indeed Christian or representatives of other religious groups. People who pray often move to act after the prayer. Christians, in fact, affirm that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:17). James castigated those who told the poor to be “warm and well-fed,” but offered them no clothing or food. In the aftermath of a disaster, people contribute in various ways. First responders rush to the scene. Crisis management teams arrive behind them. Aid organizations and volunteers follow. People who cannot help physically send donations, or if they are government leaders, dedicate funding for disaster recovery. Everyone may choose to pray. Critics that I mentioned earlier especially criticized entertainers and politicians who had tweeted that they were praying for Oklahoma. Prayer enlists the aid of the divine. It also focuses the thoughts of the one who offers the prayer. Prayer calms the person who prays. When people learn that others pray for them, they often feel relief as well. On the other hand, none of us controls how God answers prayer. In fact, if biblical passages like Psalms 10 and 13 are any indication, we may protest what we think God is doing. On other occasions, when rescue arrives when it seemed there was no hope, we sink to our knees in gratitude. No one can prevent another from praying silently, frustrating though that may be to some people. And as long as there are disasters, people will pray. They pray, not because they arrogantly presume that God will do their bidding, but because they yearn for help to accomplish what seems impossible. If we say that we pray, we should act with integrity. We should not say that we are praying when we do not pray. No one has to pray in our country, but many of us choose to do so, because we believe that the Creator of the universe still controls what happens. The anti-prayer critics do have a right to express their opinions in the United States, but those whom they criticize have a right to pray.

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on May 14, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer   

    Praying in Jesus’ Name 

    When we offer our prayers to the Lord it is a good thing to be reminded that we ought do so in the Lord’s name. This phrase, “in the Lord’s name” simply means by His authority (with His approval). There are some, however, who close their prayer with a simple “amen,” and, it is likely, this is done because one is unaware that Jesus wanted prayers to God spoken in a particular way. The Scripture teaches us to offer our prayer in Jesus’s name. In the context of the Lord’s commission to the apostles (John 14:13-14), He said that when they (apostles) asked in his name, then that which is asked will be done. This is a good example for us to follow. RT

     

  • Eugene Adkins 8:49 am on May 9, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , prayer,   

    You Don’t Have to Understand it All for it to Work 

    You don’t have to completely understand how prayer works for it to work. I don’t completely understand how my cellphone or the Internet works, but that doesn’t keep it from working or me from using it!

    “Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

     

    • Michael Summers 9:05 am on May 9, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Granted. However, I do have to know how to make a telephone call or how to operate the remote control. When writing, I may not have to understand writing, but I will communicate more effectively to some if I avoid split infinitives. In prayer, we should know to whom we pray and have some awareness of what prayer is. Such awareness comes from observation, verbal instruction, or reading. Many Christians learn to pray from observing how other Christians pray. Others learn by reading what Jesus taught about prayer or by reading biblical prayers. Your citation of Philippians 4:6 demonstrates this concept of learning to pray. The verse tells to whom we should address our prayers, when we should pray, and even with what attitude (thanksgiving) we should pray. However, as you noted, the key point is: Pray.

      • Eugene Adkins 4:25 pm on May 9, 2013 Permalink | Reply

        Hello, Michael,

        Much of what you say was, as you said it, granted. My intention wasn’t to infer that one can pray to or through anyone or anything, or that knowing how to pray isn’t important (Luke 11:1); but rather that there times when prayer works even if we don’t know how it’s going to work. To be honest, if I had to completely explain everything about how prayer works (when it’s answered, how it’s answered, why it’s not answered, why we even need an answer, etc.) I’d come up woefully short…but, as with other things in life where my knowledge is less than complete, that doesn’t keep me from using it to the best of my ability

        Thanks for commenting!

    • Don Ruhl 11:42 am on May 10, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Amen, preach it, brother!

  • John T. Polk II 4:00 am on May 3, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , fortress, , , , , , , , , prayer, refuge, Rock, , , unhappiness,   

    Psalm 144 How To Live In A Happy State 

     This Psalm of David shows why God saw David as “a man after My own heart, who will do all My will” (Acts 13:22). This Psalm is from a heart that knows what God’s grace and mercy is all about!

    Verses 1-2 acknowledge who is with David on his throne over Israel;

    Verses 3-4 recognize how short the rule of a man is compared to God’s reign;

    Verses 5-10 show who really deserves praise for victory over enemies;

    Verses 11-15 summarize where a nation’s blessings and strengths come from.

    Verses 1-2: “The LORD” was David’s “Rock” not a castle. God guided David’s conquests; God showed what “lovingkindness” was like in between battles; David’s “fortress” (protective dwelling), “high tower” (lofty position above the enemy), “shield” (protection against soldiers’ attacks) and “refuge” (safe haven), were all in God. Thus if David’s “people” didn’t obey God, David wouldn’t be king of a nation! Would that Governments recognized this today (John 19:10-11)!

    Verses 3-4: “What is man” is the question David asks that shows great humility (Psalm 8:4). What makes us think we are so important that God would notice us? We are important not because of what we have done, but what God has done (Hebrews 2:17-18)! We do not live long enough to be impressive (James 4:13-15).

    Verses 5-10: God, however, is so impressive that He can “come down” over the Earth; make mountains smoke; use lightning strikes; all as weapons of war “from above.” It is God “from above” who “rescues” the righteous from a flood of “foreigners” hurling “lying words” and lying handshakes.  Those who serve God cannot expect those who do not to be following the same rules in the same way! Christian behavior is not universal, but should be (Ephesians 5:1-17)! It is God who deserves praise for our salvation and daily life. The “harp of ten strings” was an instrument of David (1 Chronicles 23:5) which appealed to the spiritually lazy (Amos 6:3-7) and was condemned. No man-made musical instrument was authorized by Moses’ Law.

    Verses 11-15: It would be by God’s rescue that the Nation of Israel would have: sturdy “sons” and “daughters;” plentiful “produce” and “sheep” and “oxen;” and no external raids nor internal struggles. A nation of people who respect God, will have “sons” who mature like plants and know their work to be done; “daughters” who accept their role of “pillars” as wife and mother; “produce” for people who know how to save for the next crop; fertile “sheep;” “oxen” useful for burdens; peaceful living without disruptiveness. Truly such a nation is “happy,” for “Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!” The plague of America is unhappiness, and it has become pandemic because people do not have the LORD God. “Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:1-3). “And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son” (1 John 5:11). “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:16). DO YOU KNOW GOD?

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:02 am on April 30, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , , , prayer, , , snares, traps, , ,   

    Psalm 141 Shut My Mouth 

    This Psalm of David could have originated at one of several times in his life, so the historical background is not definitely set, but it clearly is similar to other of his Psalms.

    Verses 1-2 appeal to God to hear this prayer;

    Verses 3-4 concerned with one’s words;

    Verse 5-concerned with one’s thoughts;

    Verses 5c-7 concerned with one’s bones;

    Verses 8-10 concerned with one’s eyes.

    Verses 1-2: To “cry out” expresses immediate need(s). For prayer to be “set before” God “as incense” (Exodus 30:1-10), helps us see that when Moses’ Law was taken out of the way by the cross of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:14-16), Christian prayers ascend before God instead of incense (Revelation 5:8).

    Verses 3-4: It is not asking for God to choose our words, but knowing we have called attention to the problem we have with wrong words should keep us more keenly aware (Matthew 12:34-37). “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless” (James 1:26). “For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body” (James 3:2). In fact, David realizes, to avoid sin, we must not lean toward “any evil thing,” “practice wicked works,” associate with evil workers, or commonly associate with sinners. This progression into sin is similar to Psalm 1.

    Verse 5: If we find ourselves heading in the wrong direction, the rebuke of a righteous person should bring us back to spirituality. “Open rebuke is better Than love carefully concealed” (Proverbs 27:5). “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted” (Galatians 6:1).

    Verses 5c-7: Our prayers should be not only for us to be strong, but for the wicked to be blunted and weakened. “Judges” are their leaders, but “sweet” “words” of a prayerful appeal to God can see them taken down. Their damage, however, may break up God’s people as if physical bodies had been plowed under!

    Verses 8-10: “Eyes,” rightly focused on the goal, must not be misled. Once a person has been buried in the water of baptism into Jesus’ death (and not before), and raised to a new life with Him (Romans 6:3-5), they are saved (1 Peter 3:21). “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:1-3). By obeying God and following Jesus Christ, God will “keep” (avoid sin, 1 John 3:6) a Christian from the “snares” and “traps” the wicked continually provide. It was the partial obedience of the Israelites in cleaning the wicked nations out of the Promised Land, that God warned they would become “snares and traps to you, and scourges on your sides and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land which the LORD your God has given you” (Joshua 23:13). “Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards his soul will be far from them” (Proverbs 22:5). David did not pray out of vengeance or hatred, but simply that God let “the wicked fall into their own nets” and he be allowed to “escape.” When the wicked are treated with their own wickedness is not only just, it is fair for the righteous. “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him” (Proverbs 26:27). A rolling stone may not gather moss, but often it punishes the ones who started it rolling!

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 3:52 am on April 29, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , evil men, , , , prayer, , , violent men, vipers   

    Psalm 140 Deliver Me From Evil 

    A Psalm of David that recognizes how evil surrounds someone trying to live right. Paranoia involves fear without facts – this Psalm, however, deals with facts that give ample reason to be aware and careful! “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Peter 3:17).

    Verses 1-5 pray for preservation from evil men;

    Verses 6-7 reassert confidence in God;

    Verses 8-11 pray for persecution on the wicked;

    Verses 12-13 remind the upright of their reward.

    Verses 1-5: God is asked to “Deliver me” “from evil men; “Preserve me from violent men;” “Keep me” “from the hands of the wicked.” Jesus taught His disciples to pray “do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one” (Matthew 6:13). “Evil men” are those who: plan it in their hearts; gather for war; hone their tongues like serpents; speak venomously. Psalm 140:3 is quoted in Romans 3:13 to help describe sinners in need of Jesus Christ. Little wonder that John the Baptist (Luke 3:7), then Jesus (Matthew 12:34; 23:33), called their generation of Jews a “brood of vipers.” “The wicked” are those determined to “make my steps stumble;’’ hidden a snare to tie me up; “spread a net;” “set traps,” all designed to stop a faithful person from being faithful!

    Verses 6-7: David’s God hears his supplication, provides strength to save, and protects his head in battle.

    Verses 8-11: If the wicked are unpunished, their pride swells. Solomon would later say: “Because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:11). David’s prayer is that: their evil words are turned back upon them; they are consumed by fire; their slander goes unproven; evil men fight it out with the violent men! Worldly people “slander” the message of salvation: “For if the truth of God has increased through my lie to His glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner? And why not say, ‘Let us do evil that good may come?’–as we are slanderously reported and as some affirm that we say. Their condemnation is just” (Romans 3:7-8). “Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, And whoever spreads slander is a fool” (Proverbs 10:18).

    Verses 12-13: Regardless of the opposition, God will prevail on behalf of the “afflicted,” giving “justice for the poor,” being thanked by the righteous, and receiving the upright to “dwell” in His presence.

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:04 am on April 25, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , God's Name, , , prayer, , ,   

    Psalm 138 God’s Name Works 

    A Psalm of David that is so typical of David’s other Psalms, full of praise to God.

    Verses 1-2 God’s Name is worshiped above all gods;

    Verses 3-5 God’s Name is glorified above all kings;

    Verses 6-8: God’s Name reaches to all people.

    Verses 1-2: (Verse 1) Praise to God should include the “whole heart” out of which we “sing praises.” David, with all the musical instruments introduced by him into worship, felt praise involved singing from the heart, in spite of others’ “gods.” In the New Testament, Christians should, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Colossians 3:16). (Verse 2) What God has done in “lovingkindness” and “truth” distinguish Him above all.

    Verses 3-5: (Verse 3) David’s boldness came from God’s answering His pleas. No proof of God’s care is better than experience, and hindsight is always 20/20! (Verse 4) “Kings of the earth” quickly learn Jehovah God is mightier than they are. (Verse 5) When defeated, even they join in God’s praises (Example Daniel 4).

    Verses 6-8: (Verse 6) God never loses sight of, or sensitivity toward, “the lowly.” No one is too minute or insignificant but that God will hear. But “the proud” God recognizes from “afar,” that is, God doesn’t need to have them close to know how to deal with them. “Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for ‘God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.’ Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time” (1 Peter 5:5-6). (Verse 7) “In the midst of trouble” God “revives” (refreshes), extends a protecting “hand,” offers His “right hand” to “save.” Since Jesus said God is “spirit” (John 4:24) which has no “flesh and bones” (Luke 24:39), then all references to God’s “body” of physical characteristics obviously are figures of speech designed to help us understand Him. (Verse 8) God looks better to our cares than we can, which is why we should cast “all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). He does this out of His “mercy” which “endures forever.” “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’” (Hebrews 13:5).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:00 am on April 23, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , , prayer, thank God   

    Psalm 136 Why Worship God? “For His Mercy Endures Forever” 

    This is almost a repetition of Psalm 135, but with the phrase “For His mercy endures forever” added to each verse (26 times). That phrase was ordered at the dedication of the tabernacle by David (1 Chronicles 16:41), at the dedication of Solomon’s Temple (2 Chronicles 7:1-6), and before battle by Jehoshaphat (2 Chronicles 20:20-22). It means without God’s guiding “mercy,” they would not be a nation. “Mercy” (willingness to relieve the price of sins) is mentioned in 129 verses in the Book of Psalms. The “mercy of God” kept Israelites together until Jesus Christ came, and now God’s “mercy” is for both Jews and Gentiles through Jesus Christ (Romans 11:30-32; Galatians 3:22-29). To illustrate God’s “mercy,” evidence is drawn from the written history of God’s Word. AND for those mid-guided commentators who think the Old Testament God is hateful and violent, His motive for providing and protecting Israel as a nation was so that He could provide mercy for all who will obey Jesus Christ today (Ephesians 2:1-7)!

    Verses 1-3: “Give thanks to the LORD” for: “He is good;” He is above all “gods;” He is “the Lord of lords!”

    Verses 4-9: True science is the uncovering of the “wisdom” God used in the Creation. His orderliness precisely designed the “heavens.” And, He has done these “great wonders” “alone!” This is detailed in Genesis 1-2.

    Verses 10-15: God broke Egypt as a dominating power when He “brought out Israel from among them” in establishing them as His Nation. This is detailed in Exodus 1-14.

    Verses 16-22: God destroyed all nations in Canaan that Israel might be given the land He had promised Abraham. This is detailed in the Book of Joshua.

    Verses 23-24: In the Promised Land, when Israelites repented of their sins, God continued to lead them to victories over their enemies by raising up a “judge.” This is detailed in the Book of Judges.

    Verse 25: All food is produced because God’s mercy gives orderly seasons (Genesis 8:22; Acts 14:15-17). Solomon will acknowledge: “Moreover the profit of the land is for all; even the king is served from the field” (Ecclesiastes 5:9). It is pathetic poverty of spirit when people are taught to forget this fact!

    Verse 26: We must never cease thanking “the God of heaven” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18).

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:07 am on April 17, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , David's throne, , , , prayer, priests, , Zion   

    Psalm 132 The Cure for Restlessness 

    There is uncertainty regarding the author, time, or circumstances of these Psalms, but it is apparent Psalms 120-134 work together, and are called the “Songs of Degrees,” and sometimes “Songs of Ascension.” This Psalm is a prayer for David, possibly spoken by his son, Solomon.

    Verse 1-5 open a prayer about David’s concern for God’s temple;

    Verses 6-9 show David’s concern for God’s ark;

    Verses 10-18 give God’s concern for David’s legacy.

    Verses 1-5: The prayer is for God to “remember David,” and all he went through to be faithful to God.

    (Verses 2-4) David “swore to the LORD” to remain restless until a place for worshipping God was found. He would not: find comfort in his own house, or his own bed, or sleep soundly, or relax in “slumber,” unless God’s House was in its place (2 Samuel 7:1-3). (Verse 5) David moved the ark into God’s place (1 Chronicles 15:1-3; 16:1), but was not permitted to build the Temple (1 Kings 8:18-19).

    Verses 6-9: (Verse 6) “Ephratha” was a region which included Bethlehem (Micah 5:2), and may have also included Kirjath Jearim (“city of the woods”), where the ark stayed 20 years (1 Samuel 7:1-3), then moved into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:11-19). (Verse 7) Once the place of worship is known, the exhortation is “Let us go” first “into His tabernacle” (or temporary tent, then Solomon built a Temple, then Jesus Christ build the church of Christ, Matthew 16:18; Acts 2:38, 41, 47; 2 Corinthians 6:16), secondly, “worship at His footstool.” Proper worship may only be done in the tabernacle, or today, the church of Christ. (Verse 8) God will respond to proper worship from the proper place, as His “ark” represents His presence. Jesus Christ is the “propitiation” (mercy seat, or cover of the ark) “for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world” (1 John 2:2). (Verse 9) God’s priests were to be properly clothed to perform their duties (Exodus 40:1-16). Today, God’s priests are Christians who were baptized into Jesus Christ to put Him on as their proper garment (1 Peter 2:4-5; Galatians 3:26-29).

    Verses 10-18: (Verse 10) God’s promise for his son to build God’s house seemed to point to Solomon (2 Samuel 7:4-14), but David’s throne is now occupied by Jesus Christ (Acts 2:29-32), and Jesus built God’s spiritual house, the church of Christ (Hebrews 3:1-6). (Verses 11-12) Faithfulness was the requirement for David’s “sons” to sit on his throne, which failed with Solomon (1 Kings 11:9-40). (Verses 13-18) Since “the LORD has chosen Zion” for His “resting place forever,” Jerusalem lasted until Jesus Christ came, lived and died on the cross (Romans 9:30-33). After God destroyed Jerusalem in A.D.70, it had been made clear that it is spiritual Israel and spiritual Zion who represent God’s people today (Hebrews 12:22-25; Galatians 6:14-16). Christians are provided blessings (1 Peter 4:12-14), the bread of life (1 Corinthians 11:23-26), priestly garment of Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:27), joyful singing because of the Word of Christ (Colossians 3:16).

    Thought: The prayer for David has been answered, for his obedience certainly paved the way for Jesus Christ to sit on David’s throne forever.

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:26 am on March 26, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , prayer, ,   

    Psalm 119:145-152 Qoph Whose Prayers Are Heard 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Psalm 119:145-152  Qoph                              Whose Prayers Are Heard

    Verses 145-148 tell who is praying;

    Verses 149-152 tell what to expect.

    Verses 145-148: (Verse 145) To “cry” out indicates the sincerity from a “whole heart.” Answered prayer comes from those who “keep” His “statutes” (words marking out the right way). God knows whether His people approached Him with their “whole heart” or “in pretense” (Jeremiah 3:10), and planned for them to return to Him “with their whole heart” (Jeremiah 24:7). The first and greatest commandment under Moses and Jesus Christ is to love God “with all your heart” (Deuteronomy 6:5; Mark 12:30; Acts 8:37). (Verse 146) The appeal for God to “hear” is followed by “save me” for the purpose of keeping His “testimonies” (words showing God’s character in dealing with people). (Verses 147-148) Because “hope” (anticipation, expectation of faith) springs from God’s “word,” prayer begins before sunrise and can extend throughout the night. Not one long prayer, but continually, as Jesus “spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart” (John 18:1). Paul taught: “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2). It is the “meditation” (a lost capability in this electronic age!) upon His “word” that helps one approach God with boldness. It takes time and concentration to “meditate,” not distraction, illusion, fantasy. Prayer is approaching God when one has approached God’s Word.

    Verses 149-152: (Verse 149) When God “hears” (gives attention to), it is because of His “lovingkindness” (used 22 times in Psalms). “I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness, One who relents from doing harm” (Jonah 4:2). “Loving” and “kindness” go hand-in-hand, whether in dating, marriage, or devotion! Knowing God’s “justice” (Deuteronomy 10:17-20), we are “revived” (ready for another effort). (Verse 150) Through God’s Word, we know He recognizes people who “are far from” His “law” are following “wickedness.” “The righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked, Overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness” (Proverbs 21:12). (Verse 151) The “wicked” are far from God’s Word, but the faithful find God “near” because they regard “all” His “commandments” as “truth.” NO commandment of God is “burdensome” (1 John 5:3). (Verse 152) God’s “testimonies” have always proved to be accurate throughout every person’s lifetime. Those who have the privilege of knowing the Holy Scriptures “from childhood” will have little difficulty accepting them as having been “given by inspiration of God” and making one “complete” (2 Timothy 3:14-17).

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version,  unless otherwise noted.

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:09 am on March 11, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , , prayer   

    Psalm 119:57-64 Heth Life of Self-Examination 

    It is fitting that the greatest tribute to the Word of God is IN the Word of God, itself, and is in the longest chapter of the Word of God! This Psalm has no author’s name, historical incident, or other distraction from its theme. It is divided into 22 sections (one for every letter in the Hebrew alphabet), each consisting of 8 lines, each line beginning with the alphabet letter of that section (aleph is the first letter of each line under the aleph section, for instance). The chapter uses some 8-10 different words to describe the Word of God, each bringing something extra to the total picture of the Word of Truth. In order to savor the depth and richness of teaching in this Psalm, we will examine each portion as if it were its own chapter.

    Heth Psalm 119:57-64                          Life of Self-Examination

    Verses 57-60 list ways people uphold their part of their covenant with God;

    Verses 61-64 describe how completely this agreement affects their lives.

    Verses 57-60: (Verse 57) Jehovah is the “portion” (inheritance, benefit) of anyone who commits to keeping God’s “words” (what He has said). (Verse 58) The “entreaty” (prayer) for God’s “favor” (grace) is with the “whole heart” (totally behind the prayer). (Verse 59) To “think” about ones on “ways” simply states the self-examination required for God to bless, and the direction of feet determines the extent of obedience to God’s “testimonies” (commands indicating God’s intent). “But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another” (Galatians 6:4). We must understand we are the ones who need new direction to our lives, not for God to change His! (Verse 60) “Haste” does NOT make waste when it is used to create prompt obedience, and “haste” without “delay” means obedience to God’s “commands” (determined limits to be followed) should be immediate.

    Verses 61-64: (Verse 61) Though we may be hampered by enemies, worldly interests, or family miscues, we renew our resolve to keep God’s “law” (instructions describing the way to go). (Verse 62) When it seems darkest (“at midnight”) we can take advantage of the quiet to “rise” and thank God. In other words, 24/7 is always a good time to thank God. “Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). (Verse 63) There is a community attitude in those who “fear God” (respect) and follow His “precepts” (that call attention to what is important), for they share a common faith, common love for God, common bond. “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful” (Colossians 3:14-15). (Verse 64) There is abundant proof (“the earth” and its history in the Bible) of God’s “mercy” (pity toward our situations), therefore we are ready to be taught His “statutes” (lines showing what is right and what is wrong).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • TFRStaff 8:16 am on February 24, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer,   

     

  • Eugene Adkins 6:52 am on February 20, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Bullying, , , , , , prayer   

    Blasphemy Reveals SNL’s True Understanding of Christianity 

    “SNL” (Saturday Night Live) has targeted Jesus in one of their “comedy sketches” again. It’s not the first time and unfortunately it probably won’t be the last time. Like other forms of “art” and multimedia, SNL finds an easy target to blaspheme when it comes to God’s Son. Why is that? Because this “target” doesn’t shoot back, doesn’t blow up buildings and doesn’t threaten violence through large crowds. In reality, this “target” actually encourages those who blaspheme His name to still seek His love and mercy and hope…these are the very characteristics of Jesus they continually lampooned in their sketch.

    Despite what they might say publicly, the facts reveal that SNL enjoys bullying those who do not bully back. It goes beyond immaturity right down to cowardice. If it is not cowardice then why not target other “religious figures” who are well-known? The answer to this reveals a few things:

    1) It reveals their true disdain for the grace of God.

    2) It reveals the true affection for sin that resides in their heart.

    3) It reveals the hypocritical attitude that would condemn any so-called perceived “bullying” of other religions.

    4) It reveals that they know that the true practice of Christianity is peace, for they do such blasphemous things with no fear of physical retribution by Christians.

    As Christians we are encouraged to pray for those who have this mindset. We are encouraged to have pity on their darkened spiritual condition. We are encouraged to remember how we at times have acted in our own selfish ways, both in the past and even in the present. Christianity will always be “low hanging fruit” for comedians. And we must not forget that Jesus said such things, even worse things, would continue to be directed at His name. But neither should we forget that it is not our place to seek revenge, for the laughter of those who disdain the Savior of their soul will one day exchange their tears of laughter for tears of sorrow.

    “Woe to you who are full, for you shall hunger. Woe to you who laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep. Woe to you when all men speak well of you, for so did their fathers to the false prophets. “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.“ (Luke 6:25-28)

     

    • Weylan Deaver 9:13 am on February 20, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      No doubt many Hollywood writers are intimidated by Islam, while feeling free to blaspheme the Lord. What they don’t realize is that the Lord who meekly went as a lamb to the slaughter on their behalf two millennia ago, will come back with an entirely different demeanor:

      “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war. 12 His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself. 13 He is clothed in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is The Word of God. 14 And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses. 15 From his mouth comes a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations, and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God the Almighty. 16 On his robe and on his thigh he has a name written, King of kings and Lord of lords” (Rev. 19:11-16, ESV).

  • TFRStaff 1:57 am on January 31, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , prayer   

    11 ways to make prayers more meaningful 

    by Charles L Brown (sent by Glenn Hitchcock)

    1. PRAY MORE. The average Christian spends a very limited amount of time in prayer. We often reserve prayer for emergency use only. How much time would you estimate you spent in prayer yesterday? How much time last week? More Daniels are needed today (Dan. 6:10).

    2. BE MORE SPECIFIC IN PRAYER. Prayers are often far too general, too vague. More praying should be done for specific people, specific needs, etc. Prayer should be fitted to the occasion and need. Too often our prayers are like that of the young boy when he and a friend found themselves in the pathway of what appeared to be sure disaster with no way of escape. One of the boys prayed the only prayer he had ever heard his father pray, and that before meals. He said, “God, make us thankful for what we are about to receive!” It may be that our prayers are often no more appropriate for the occasions.

    3. PRAY WITH GREATER FAITH. James said that weak faith and futile prayers are connected (Jas. 1:6). Doubts and uncertainties hinder prayers. The source for a greater faith is God’s Word (Rom. 10:17).

    4. RISE ABOVE THE SIN OF COVETOUSNESS. James also tells us that a covetous spirit hinders our prayers (Jas. 4:2). Selfish hearts do not gain the ear of God. A loving and giving God is seeking to bless those with generous spirits.

    5. PRAY WITH GREATER ZEAL AND FERVENCY. Another important ingredient of acceptable prayer is enthusiasm or fervency, so declared James (Jas. 5:16). Prayers coming only from the lips, and not from the hearts, are hollow and empty. The Pharisees of Jesus’ day prayed such prayers.

    6. GROW MORE GODLY. The more righteous we become, the more prayer accomplishes (Jas. 5:16; 1 Pet. 3:12). Elijah’s success in prayer was directly related to his righteousness in life. The rebellious spirit and the unrepented sins will always hinder our prayers (Prov. 1:28; Isa. 5 9:2).

    7. IMPROVE MARITAL RELATIONSHIPS. Peter tells us that relationships between husbands and wives either help or hinder prayers (1 Pet. 3:7). When relationships break down between marriage partners our relationship with God is affected. (More …)

     

    • UChenna F. Bekee 4:39 pm on February 1, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      Being criticized for emphasizing these facts and more in my ministry to the brethren that a fellow preacher was asked to recommend my work for a support by a congregation and he told them that I emphasize so much about prayers to the Christians. I believe som much on the efficacy or prayers and the closeness that a Christian enjoys when He has a living prayer relationship with God.

    • Glenda Williams 9:01 pm on February 2, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      I’m going to email this to everyone on our church bulletin list. Excellent article.

  • J. Randal Matheny 3:32 pm on January 29, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , prayer, , ,   

    Psalm 13 right between the eyes 

    Psalm 13, as I followed our reading schedule, blew me away this morning. It even inspired the Portuguese devotional, which I translated into English. It’s still ringing in my ears and led, I have no doubt, to a powerful and productive day.

    Discovering the three parts of this psalm and how it unwinds (see link above), it takes the worry out of the sails of the ship called Despair.

    Read it now. From a tornado of doubt and anxiety, it will bring you down to settled peace of mind. Here it is in the ESV:

    1 How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
    How long will you hide your face from me?
    2 How long must I take counsel in my soul
    and have sorrow in my heart all the day?
    How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?

    3 Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;
    light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,
    4 lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,”
    lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.

    5 But I have trusted in your steadfast love;
    my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
    6 I will sing to the Lord,
    because he has dealt bountifully with me.

     

  • Ron Thomas 7:00 am on January 29, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: anoint with oil, , prayer   

    CALL THE ELDERS 

    I was asked a question earlier this week that is worthy of consideration. The question pertained to James 5:14. Why do we not do this? Or, to ask in a different sort of way, why do we not call the elders of the church and pray over the sick as some other churches do (as the question was posed to me)? Those who are members of the Lord’s church have a desire to do things in Bible ways and say things in Bible ways. They are perplexed, however, when we see a Bible way, like in James 5, and wonder if we really mean what we say.

    Let us break down the passage into its component parts (James 5:13-18): 1) there was a human response (5:13), 2) there is a human response and a call for another human response (5:14), 3) there is the Lord’s response (5:15), 4) there is a human response and an illustration (5:16-18). We will focus our attention on 5:14.

    People of all walks in life both suffer and get physically sick (a distinction is made in v. 15 between the physically sick and spiritually sick). In 5:14, those who are physically sick are to call for the elders of the church. The one who is physically sick is not called upon to pray or administer anything to self; moreover, this does not appear to be a gathering of the saints at an appointed assembly—the assumption being “the sickness is serious enough to restrict the mobility of the sufferer,” perhaps even being near death (Moo, p. 238; McKnight, p. 435). The “them” of 5:14 refers to the elders. In 5:13, on the other hand, the one who is suffering is to pray (the nature of the suffering unspecified). Thus, what appears to be taking place here is some physical ailment that is serious enough to call for a particular kind of action.

    There are three things involved in the action of the elders: first, they are to “pray over him;” second, they are to anoint the ailing one with oil (the reason for the anointing and the kind of oil used is unspecified); and third, they are to do this “in the name of the Lord” (by the Lord’s authority). With this being done, James said the prayer of the elders, in faith, will save (heal) the one seriously sick (5:15).

    It appears that the anointing with oil was for symbolic reasons, not medicinal. Whether something miraculous is in view or not, scholars differ. The significance of the healing, however, was in relation to the prayers of the faithful to the Lord and the Lord hearing that prayer and granting the desire (5:15).

    Is it proper, then, for some to call for the elders of the church and pray for the one who is seriously sick? It seems to me this is proper, though not a command as established by New Testament dictum. In other words, if one is seriously sick and there is a desire for the elders to pray for (and over) the sick one, then doing so seems quite reasonable. This action can encourage the sick and others present, but in every case, it is the Lord’s doing as to whether one is relieved of the sickness or not.

     

     

    • Slade 8:01 am on January 29, 2013 Permalink | Reply

      I appreciate what you’re saying Russ. Too many times we contradict the Bible. I don’t believe we possess miraculous abilities anymore but God is limited only by Himself. How many biblical examples where somebody is healed because of their willingness to obey some seemingly pointless instruction in the abcense of a person with miraculous gifts do we need? “We” lack faith. The Holy Spirit may be able and willing to act whether or not we believe it. But he won’t if we don’t. The bible says what it says. Are “we” reading it and then telling others “Nope! That doesn’t really work!”? Are we putting stumbling blocks in the way of peoples faith?

  • John T. Polk II 4:10 am on January 14, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , prayer   

    Psalm 86 

    Vs. 1-7 give God reasons to give help;

    Vs. 8-10 give God glory;

    Vs. 11-17 give God a willing servant asking for help.

    Probably written by David, but there is no historical certainty upon which to base a background setting.

    Verses 1-7: God is requested to: “bow down” His ear and “hear” (verse 1); “preserve” a “life” (verse 2); “be merciful” (verse 3); “rejoice the soul” (verse 4); because the one making this request is: “poor and needy” (verse 1); “holy” (verse 2); crying to God “all day long” (verse 3); lifting up his soul (verse 4). Requesting favor from God is not being made by someone who has lived life with disdain for God and then, in trouble, prays, but rather, someone who stays in constant effort to contact God! A Christian equivalent might be in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. The character of God is that He is: “good” (verse 5), “ready to forgive,” “abundant in mercy” to “all those who call upon” Him. The New Testament emphasizes this: “in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” (Acts 10:35). God will hear “supplications” (not demands!) from the obedient (verse 6). The Psalmist declares: “In the day of my trouble I will call upon You” (verse 7), but this is by no means the first time God is approached by this person (verses 3, 4, 11, 12). To “call upon” God cannot mean lifting the voice only without also lifting the life. Jesus taught: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).

    Verses 8-10: Since nowhere in the Bible is the term “gods” used of angels, then  “gods” (verse 8) must refer to all humanly-invented deities, which by comparison have no comparison with God. “Therefore concerning the eating of things offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live” (1 Corinthians 8:4-6). God’s “works” are unmatched, such as making nations (verse 9; Acts 17:26; Colossians 1:15-20; Philippians 2:9-10), or the “wondrous things” He has done (verse 10; Genesis 8:22; Acts 14:14-18).

    Verses 11-17: God responds, of course, to a heart willing to be taught to walk in His Way (verse 11), uniting the heart to “fear” God’s Name (Ecclesiastes 8:12; 12:13). “Praise” and “glory” should go to God (verse 12) because of His “mercy” in delivering the Psalmist’s “soul from the depths of Sheol” (realm of departed spirits whose dead bodies are in the grave). The Psalmist praises God for sparing him from death (verse 13). The problem with “proud” and “violent” enemies who jeopardize his life, has arisen (verse 14). Interesting to see how often pride and violence accompany the godless! To state God’s qualities (as in verse 5) is to praise Him (verse 15; Exodus 34:5-8). The final request is that God grant “mercy,” “strength,” and salvation to a faithful follower (verse 16). A “son of Your maidservant” is a way of indicating that he had been raised by a godly mother, like Timothy in the New Testament (2 Timothy 1:5; 3:14-15). For God to grant the prayer of David would be “a sign” to his enemies they are in the wrong and should be ashamed of their hatred of one who does good (verse 17).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 3:44 am on January 6, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , prayer,   

    Nine, two, one, 13 

    Pray for the nine non-Christians The Missus and I have been given to study with over the past two weeks. That one among them, just one, will come to repentance.

    Pray for the business owner I talked to yesterday who was helpful and kind to me in my needs, that he might find the truth.

    Pray for the Taubaté church which yesterday adopted the “Evangelism 13-13-13″ approach: 13 methods of evangelism in 2013 to reach 13 souls.

    Pray that the Word will run, and we with it.

     

  • John Henson 3:13 pm on January 2, 2013 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , prayer   

    David’s Prayer

    1 Chronicles 29:10ff

    I. David blessed the Lord V10-13

    II. Who am I that God Supplies Everything? V 14-17

    III. Prayer for the people to “fix their hearts” on God. V 18.

    IV. Our Prayer in the New Year?

     

     

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:35 am on December 24, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , prayer   

    Psalm 71 

    Vs. 1-13 contain a prayer to God;

    Vs. 14-24 contain praise of God.

    Psalm 71 contains a number of verses from previous Psalms which have been identified as David’s. Those Davidic verses will be cited in brackets for comparison. Hence, this could easily have been another Psalm authored by David, who was in “old age” (verse 9) and “old and grayheaded” (verse 18).

    Verses 1-13: David could trust life, security, and the future into the hand of God (verses 1-3 [31:1-3]); God is asked to deliver from a “wicked,” “unrighteous,” “cruel” man (verses 4-5 [140:1,4]); trust in God begins in childhood (verse 5); it’s good that God “took me out of my mother’s womb” (verse 6 [22:9-10]) and not a partial birth advocate (!); “wonder” (verses 7-8) refers to a work of God; the plea (verse 9) is to not be “cast off” in his “old age,” or forsaken when he is weak; the enemies misrepresent the character of both God and David (verses 10-11 [56:5-6; 31:13; 83:3-5; 3:2]); David appeals to God to be near and hurry (verse 12 [22:11, 19; 38:21-22; 40:13]); desires that the adversaries know opposition from God (verse 13 [35:4, 26; 40:14].

    Verses 14-24: David promises to serve God in the future: “will hope,” “will praise,” shall tell,” “will go,” “will make mention.” Our unquenchable hope in God (verse 14) should elicit undying praise of God, though “aged” praise of God should not be left to another generation; telling of God’s righteousness and salvation should be continuous “all the day” (verse 15 [35:28; 40:5]); to “go in the strength of the LORD God” means simply to rely upon God (verse 16) and God’s righteousness, not ours, should be the subject; what we learn early in life (verse 17 [26:7]) we are prone to remember and declare; though “old and grayheaded” our task isn’t completed unless we teach “this generation,”  and the one “to come” (verse 18) God’s “strength,” “power,” and “righteousness”; in verses 19-21, God is above all for there is none like Him, He repeatedly delivers “from the depths of the earth,” and can “comfort me on every side;” true to form, David sings praises to God “with the lute” and “with the harp” (verse 22), but he uses his “lips” to do the singing (verse 23), and his “tongue” to talk (verse 24); David’s foes are “confounded,” that is, confused, to see their enemy helped by God, and “brought to shame,” that is downcast by guilt, for what they have been doing.

    Some phrases have worked themselves into our everyday conversations: “all the day” (verses 8, 15); “all the day long” (verse 24); “more and more” (verse 14); “in the strength of the LORD God” (verse 16); “old and grayheaded” (verse 18).

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 4:13 am on December 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , prayer,   

    And help us, Lord God, to be a part of that healing process for many, to help them find faith and practice obedience, enjoying the wisdom of Christ.

     

    • Shelly 8:58 am on December 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Lord, help us to be faithful to lift the needs of others to you, the One who hears and answers.

  • John T. Polk II 4:27 am on December 20, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , , prayer,   

    Psalm 69 

    Vs. 1-4: David presents his woes to God;

    Vs. 5-12: David’s zealous obedience to God created the problems;

    Vs. 13-18: David’s heartfelt plea for God to step in with help;

    Vs. 19-21: David’s hurts caused by his enemies;

    Vs. 22-28: David calls for God’s wrath to come upon them;

    Vs. 29-36: David offers praise to God who looks after His “prisoners.”

    The inspired Apostle Paul quoted Psalm 69:22-23 in Romans 11:9-10 with the words “And David says.” That ends all speculation as to authorship. Psalm 69 is quoted more in the New Testament than most other chapters in the Old Testament. Directly related to Jesus’ life are: Psalm 69:4 (John 15:25); Psalm 69:9 (John 2:17); Psalm 69:9 (Romans 15:3). Not quoted, these verses describe things done in Jesus’ life: Psalm 69:8 (John 1:11; 7:5); Psalm 69:21 (Matthew 27:34; Mark 15:36; Luke 23:36; John 19:28-30). These quotes relate to God’s plan for Jesus: Psalm 69:22-23 (Romans 11:9-10) show God’s plan always was to include Gentiles; Psalm 69:25 (Acts 1:20) describes Judas Iscariot.

    Verses 1-4: David’s desperation is described as a drowning man; his cries have dried out his throat; his enemies hate him, though unprovoked by offense that he has committed.

    Verses 5-12: David’s appeal is based on his: verses 5-6, integrity, which God certainly would know; verses 7-9, zealous obedience; verses 10-12 shameful treatment by his enemies.

    Verses 13-18: David’s prayer and desire is for God to: verses 13-15, hear and deliver him from this terrible situation; verses 16-18, “draw near to my soul.”

    Verses 19-21: David’s deep wounds include: “reproach,” “shame,” “dishonor,” “broken heart,” “heaviness,” pitiless, comfortless, being mistreated.

    Verses 22-28: Here, David speaks for himself, for he asks for retribution, a far cry from Jesus Christ on the cross who said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Luke 23:34). Payback to David included: verse 22, their prosperity “become a snare;” verse 22, their “well-being a trap;” verse 23, darkened eyes means darkened/dim understanding (Ephesians 4:17-20); verse 24, God’s “indignation,” and “wrathful anger;” verse 25, a wiped out land. This request is upon enemies who have abandoned God (verses 26-28).

    Verses 29-36: David presents his humility from which he will praise God, which is better than animal sacrifice (verses 29-31). God said in Hosea 6:6: “For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, And the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” Dedication must accompany, and be the basis for, the sacrifices of worship. Christians should remember that: “here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased” (Hebrews 13:14-16). Good works are useless without the sacrifices in worship, but worship is meaningless without a consistent service of good works. That God “hears the poor” (verse 32-33) shows no one is unimportant to God who serves Him. Verses 34-36 point universal praise to God because His future plan pointed through Israel to Jesus Christ.

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • Richard Mansel 12:31 pm on December 11, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: britain, , england, prayer, uk   

    Pray for the UK 

    The Christian Post reports:

    There has been a huge 13 percent drop in the number of people in Britain identifying themselves as Christian, according to new data released from the 2011 Census.

    The shocking statistics reveal that the number of Christians has fallen from 37 million to 33 million since 2001. Christians now make up only 59 percent of the population, as opposed to 72 percent in 2001.

    Meanwhile, the number of Muslims has risen from 1.5 million to 2.7 million – or 5 percent of the population – while the number of people describing themselves as having no religion rose by 10 percent to 25 percent of the population.

    Britain and Europe needs our prayers  that they will have a spiritual revival!

     

     

    • Jon Galloway 3:55 am on December 12, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Thanks for pointing this out Richard. As someone who lives in the UK, this is accurate. Up here in Scotland it is even worse – something like 33% (or higher) claim no religion.

  • John T. Polk II 4:21 am on December 10, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , prayer   

    Psalm 61 

    Vs. 1-3 acknowledge what God has done for David already;

    Vs. 4-5 state David’s resolve to be faithful to God;

    Vs. 6-8 give David’s request for God to be mindful of “the king.”

    There is little to go on in determining when, in David’s life, this was written. It was, possibly, before David was the king, but while David was being protected by God.

    Before the Psalm, instruction for the “Musician” was that this was to be accompanied “With stringed instruments.” Like every reference to musical instruments outside of the heart in the Old Testament, all were left behind when Jesus Christ was crucified, for Jesus “has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross” (Colossians 2:13-14). AND of all the references to musical instruments in the Book of Psalms, only 2 verses were quoted in the New Testament as pertaining to music in worship, and both say “sing” (Psalm 18:49=Romans 15:9; Psalm 22:22=Hebrews 2:12).

    Verse 1-3: “Thanksgiving” should always be a part of prayers (Philippians 4:6), and what God has done should always be acknowledged. God’s hearing is not limited by geographical boundary (“From the end of the earth”) or an overwhelmed heart. God has provided protection (“shelter”) and strength (“strong tower”) against enemies. “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I” inspired an oft-sung hymn. The “rock” of safety for the Israelites in the wilderness is later identified, for “they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:1-4). It was Jesus as God, before His coming to this earth in bodily form (Philippians 2:5-10).

    Verse 4-5: David’s commitment to God included abiding in God’s Tabernacle “forever,” confidence in “the shelter” of God’s “wings,” because God heard David’s “vows,” proof of which are “the heritage” (inheritance) of spiritual blessings to “those who fear Your name.” Solomon summarized the “whole” of human purpose when he said, “Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all” (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

    Verse 6-8: Though not specifically quoted in the New Testament, verses 6-7 well describes Jesus Christ, for He now rules over His kingdom, the church of Christ (Colossians 1:1-2, 13-18); His life is prolonged “with years as many generations” (“alive for evermore,” Revelation 1:10-18); who abides “before God forever” (as Mediator, 1 Timothy 2:5-7); and is preserved by “mercy and truth” (Matthew 9:11-13; John 18:37; 2 John 3). David spoke not of himself for he did not live the years of many generations, nor did he represent his people “before God forever.” David was inspired by God as a truly “Messianic prophet.” In verse 8, David’s vows will daily be fulfilled as he would “sing praise” to God’s name “forever.”

     All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • Richard Mansel 6:11 pm on December 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer, ,   

    What is Prayer? 

    prayer-hands778

    In 2013, my preaching emphasis will be on helping the congregation grow in prayer. My prayer is that this will promote spiritual and numerical growth. I plan to preach two sermons a month and try to keep the necessity of prayer before the congregation by emphasizing it in the bulletin.

    I will be deciding over the next few weeks which sermons to preach but I wanted to get your feedback.

    • How do you define prayer?
    • What does prayer mean to you in a personal way?
    • How would a greater emphasis on prayer change you spiritually?

    I look forward to your answers!

     

     

    • preachercarter 2:04 pm on December 4, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Prayer is nothing more than communication with God. it is often intimate yet always requires utmost respect of His Majesty. With this we learn more of Him and grow all the more.

      http://thechristianperspective.intuitwebsites.com/

    • Eugene Adkins 5:43 pm on December 4, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Definition: A plea/request spoken with words of hope (and desire) of being heard and answered. Also an expression from the heart based upon gratitude, honor, sadness, joy etc. that seeks to be closer to God.

      Personal meaning: A measure of awareness of God working in and with my life, and an expressed measure of dependance upon God’s will for my life.

      Change: More self-awareness (forgiving others when asking for forgiveness, how my life aligns with God’s will – 1 John 5:13-15) and and awareness of the needs of others, etc.. A better acknowledgment of blessings both “great” and “small.”

  • John T. Polk II 4:30 am on November 30, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , , prayer   

    Psalm 55 

    Vs. 1-2 a call to God;

    Vs. 3-5 David’s depression;

    Vs. 6-15 suggestions for relief;

    Vs. 16-23 give the privilege and process of faith in God.

    Whatever the event in David’s life that produced this Psalm, it seems the “sticking point” is in verses 12-14: his troubler was a former close personal friend, or family member.

    Verses 1-2: The living God needs no “vain repetitions” (Matthew 6:7) to get His attention.

    Verses 3-5: The wicked’s words, oppression, and pressures, motivated by wrath, had caused David to descend into: pained heart, terrors of death, fearfulness and trembling, and horror. It’s no wonder, then, that God was the only way out. Nothing can hurt someone more than with words: “A man who bears false witness against his neighbor Is like a club, a sword, and a sharp arrow” (Proverbs 25:18).

    Verses 6-15: David pictures his peacefulness if he was out of this picture (verses 6-8); divided tongues worked to scatter God’s enemies at the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9), and the constant crime and violence in “the city” might be reduced if they were scattered. What hurts the most is to be wounded by close friends or relatives. An “enemy” is an adversary from whom one flees, but if the enemy comes from one’s own family, escape may not be an option. Later the prophet Micah decried the same condition: “Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; Guard the doors of your mouth From her who lies in your bosom. For son dishonors father, Daughter rises against her mother, Daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; A man’s enemies are the men of his own household” (Micah 7:5-6). Jesus quoted Micah 7:6 and showed even in His day, “a man’s enemies will be those of his own household” (Matthew 10:34-36). Sometimes an enemy may arise from someone with whom we have had “sweet counsel together,” and even congregated for worship! Understand the frustration in Paul’s wish in Galatians 5:11-12.

    Verses 16-23: David will not let external circumstances diminish his faithful confidence in God (verse 16). Verse 17 will be repeated by Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:17: “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). By verse 18, either relief arrives, or David is claiming that it will arrive. David puts this in perspective, this is not personal with David, for troublers have always been those who “do not change,” and who “do not fear God” (verse 19). Verses 20-21 show the troublers have broken faith with David, for they once were: “at peace with him,” in “covenant,” users of “smooth words” when “war was in his heart,” a slick speaker with “drawn swords.”  Beware of political or religious leaders who say the right things without the right meaning – who devise “peace processes” without God’s plan for conversion. Jesus rightly gave the alarm: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves” (Matthew 7:15). Jesus also gave the “fruit test” as the method to reveal them (Matthew 7:16-20). Indeed, Psalm 55:22 is embodied in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6:24-34. Verse 23 warns that the wicked can (and will!) die in “half their days,” meaning God can bring them to nought suddenly!

    All Scriptures and comments are based upon the New King James Version, unless otherwise noted.

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 11:45 am on October 12, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer,   

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:15 am on October 12, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , , prayer   

    Psalm 21 

    Vs. 1-6 praise God for all David has already received;

    Vs. 7-13 show David’s confidence in God’s defense.

    It does no good to continually request favors of God unless, and until, one praises God for what has already been done! David’s joy and reason to rejoice are because God has already: vs.2) granted his heart’s desire and voiced request; v.3) met him with “blessings of goodness” including his gold crown; v.4) given him length of life; v.5) placed “honor and majesty” upon him; v.6) given David much for which to praise God. All of these would be fulfilled in Jesus Christ (2 Samuel 7:8-17; Acts 2:22-36), but David would not even be king without the blessings of God. Wicked Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, learned this the hard way (Daniel 4:28-37), and Jesus said as much to the Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate (John 19:10-12; Luke 3:1; Matthew 27:2).

    In His pattern for prayer, Jesus taught disciples to “hallow” God’s name and His Will before any personal request. The Apostle Paul taught “the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse” (Colossians 1:2) to:  “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” (Colossians 4:2).

    That God had “given him his heart’s desire” or “not withheld the request of his lips” does not picture God as some “Santa Claus” but rather pictures David as a knowledgeable believer. David knew what requests were within God’s Will to grant. Requests given to God must NOT be contrary to His Will. Even in the New Testament, those in covenant relationship with God must make submissive requests: “And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight” (1 John 3:22). “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us” (1 John 5:14). Clearly, God’s Will must come before our requests, as Jesus showed: “He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will’” (Matthew 26:39). All of our plans must be submitted to God’s Will (James 4:13-15).

    Psalm 21:7-12 show that David’s enemies were God’s enemies and David left them in God’s Hands to be dealt with justly. In the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 32:35) and in the New (Romans 12:17-21), God still reserves “vengeance” for Himself against His enemies. God is to be praised for whenever He determines to act (Psalm 21:13;  2 Thessalonians 1:7-9).

     

  • John T. Polk II 4:46 am on October 11, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , , prayer   

    psalm-20 

    Vs. 1-5 give “best wishes;”

    Vs. 6-9 give the only resolutions.

    Verses 1-4 seem to be a pattern for prayer, and verse 5 could indicate that it is designed to be prayed publicly. This would be like Jesus teaching His disciples to pray by giving a prayer outline (Matthew 6:9-13; Luke 11:1-4). Reciting these verses is not prayer, but letting these thoughts guide one’s own expression is prayer. Psalm 20:1-4 express the desire that God would accept the others praying in this same worship time, and respond by: answering, defending, sending help, strengthening, remembering their offerings, accepting their sacrifices, granting according to their heart, and fulfilling their purposes. God is not pictured as a “genii in a bottle,” but that worshipers must properly approach God, as He has directed (John 4:24; Psalm 88:2; 95:2; 100:2). Job understood that “a hypocrite could not come before Him” (Job 13:16). Even under Moses’ Law, God required more than the sacrifices of worship (which He had specified), but also a life of obedience consistent with His principles (Micah 6:6-8). The prayer’s final request of God is in Psalm 20:5. Jesus taught that requesting forgiveness without giving forgiveness is vain (Matthew 6:14-15).

    God’s salvation is from Heaven, not in the devices or strengths of humans (Psalm 20:6). Military might is represented by horses and chariots (Psalm 20:7), and Israelite kings were forbidden to trust in such, but should have depended upon God and His Word (Deuteronomy 17:14-18). Judah left the LORD by trusting in an assortment of soothsayers, foreigners, silver and gold, horses, chariots, and idols (Isaiah 2:1, 6-9). One may choose to associate with those who bow before human might and power, or stand upright by the mightier power of the name of the LORD. The former is defeated before the battle, the latter is victorious without a fight! David knew this truth when he conquered Goliath with “the battle is the LORD’S, and He will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:45-50).

    It does no good to pray for God’s help when we will not trust Him for the answer! “For according to the number of your cities were your gods, O Judah; and according to the number of the streets of Jerusalem you have set up altars to that shameful thing, altars to burn incense to Baal. So do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry or prayer for them; for I will not hear them in the time that they cry out to Me because of their trouble. What has My beloved to do in My house, Having done lewd deeds with many? And the holy flesh has passed from you. When you do evil, then you rejoice” (Jeremiah 11:13-15). Many ignore what God says about proper worship, but want God to hear their prayers of need. Listen carefully: “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, Even his prayer is an abomination” (Proverbs 28:9).

     

  • Richard Mansel 12:02 pm on October 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: budget, , , , , prayer   

    Faith and the Church Budget 

    When a congregation plans a budget for the upcoming year, they work with cold, hard numbers based on the expected contribution and the needs of the congregation.

    If this budget is seen as a business document alone, does it fit with the Lord’s work?

    If we step away from the business model, we ask: What role does faith and prayer have in the construction of a church budget? If we work on our budget in October and November, should we not begin praying for the budget months before?

    The sobering reality is that the terrible economy has been savage to church budgets causing cuts everywhere.

    • Does God stop working during difficult financial times?
    • Do we not redouble our prayer and maintain our faith during these trials?
    • Does God give us a pass when we have less money?
    • Does He expect us to give all the time regardless of the situation?

    I look forward to your thoughts on this subject.

     

    • robertebarger 2:57 pm on October 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      No where in the New Testament does it tell us to build builtings. It also tells them that preach the gospel to “work with your hands to give to the poor”. And do not take money to preach. We are to look to Paul the apostle as our example in this. He was a tent maker and suported himself and them that were with him. The early church met in believers homes, and as many as the Lord called shared what they owned with the rest of the body of Christ. The business of “Church” is not of God but of men.and the Devil. A preacher of the gospel does not need approval from any man, but is called of God and does not have to go to a collage, school, or commitly but he does have to wait on his ministry. Our calling is to feed the poor, care for the widows and fatherless and keep ourselves unspotted from the world. We are not to give to the rich, and when we give we are not to let the right hand know what the left hand is doing. And we are to give expecting nothing in return.

      • Eugene Adkins 5:35 pm on October 3, 2012 Permalink | Reply

        You’re wrong about the New Testament saying that preachers are not to be paid by the church.

        Read 1 Corinthians 9:8-10, 2 Corinthians 11:7-9 and 1 Timothy 5:17-18.

  • Richard Mansel 6:48 am on September 11, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer,   

    Great Quote on Prayer and Preaching 

    “Praying keeps my focus on God’s approval rather than the applause of people.”

    • Charles Swindoll, “Saying it Well” page 151.
     

  • J. Randal Matheny 7:20 am on August 28, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , prayer,   

    Recent posts, articles, prayers 

    Here’s another devotional just posted this morning:
    If you’re not signed up to the devotionals (or my website as a whole), feel free to do that while you’re onsite, since not every devotional gets linked to from here.
    Also, be sure to read my editorial from yesterday on Forthright Magazine, “What Everybody Knows About Religion.”
    It’s gotten more comments than usual.
    And, if your a glutton for punishment, there’s also the poem/prayer posted recently, “O Boundless Love.” (With another coming up shortly.)

    http://believingprayer.com/2012/08/24/o-boundless-love/

    I don’t often post links to my writings here, but once in a while I figure your patience can endure my self-promotion.

     

  • TFRStaff 4:20 am on July 11, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: prayer   

    The power of the bent knee 

    Luke 18:1
    “Then He spoke a parable to them,
    that men always ought to pray and not lose heart”

    Have you ever watched a bird sleeping on its perch and never falling off? How does it manage to do this? The secret is the tendons of the bird’s legs. They are so constructed that when the leg is bent at the knee, the claws refuse to let go until the knees are unbent again. The bent knee gives the bird the ability to hold on tightly to his perch.

    Is this not also the secret of the holding power of the Christian? Daniel found this to be true. Surrounded by a pagan environment; tempted to compromise with evil, urged to weaken his grip on God, he refused to let go. He held firm when others faltered because he was a man of prayer. He knew the power of the bent knee.

    From sleeping birds we can learn the secret of holding things which are most precious to us—honesty, purity, thoughtfulness, honor, character. That secret is the knee bent in prayer, seeking to get a firmer grip on those values which make life worth living. When we hold firmly to God in prayer, we can rest assured He will hold tightly to us.

    —Rollin S. Burhans

    Heb. 4:14 – Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.

    “Thoughts For Today to Brighten Your Day” by Glenn, Mercedes and Lauren Hitchcock

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 8:33 pm on June 21, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: Bible instruction, , prayer,   

    How to help people forsake sin 

    On Wednesday night I got some ideas from a text used only briefly by the teacher. Jotted down a six-point outline of how to help people abandon sin. The audience was Israel, the speaker, Samuel, in 1Sam 12.20-25.

    Sorry, but it came out in Portuguese, and I posted it on our Brazilian church site. Maybe sometime I’ll get it into English, but if not, it’s well worth your attempting one of those horrid translators. That’s how much I liked it. Yeah, even if it was mine.

    OK, I ran it through the translator and it was decent. I cleaned it up just for you, so here’s how, following Samuel’s sermon, to help people forsake sin and follow the Lord.

    • Give people who live in sin a vision of repentance (20-21). You can turn from sin and succeed in the rejection of transgression.
    • Emphasize God’s faithfulness (22). His faithfulness inspires in us the same.
    • Make continuous prayer for the people (23). The apostles joined prayer and ministry of the Word (Acts 6.4).
    • Provide instruction in the good and right way of God (23). People do not know by instinct what is right.
    • Remind people of what God has done (24). Today, his action is focused on Christ and His sacrifice on the cross for the forgiveness of sins.
    • Give warning about the consequences of persisting in sin (25). Sin destroys!
     

  • Richard Mansel 9:54 pm on June 5, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , hardship, prayer,   

    Where is God When We Hurt? 

    “The testing of your faith produces patience” (James 1:3).  Pray and become filled with Scripture, understanding that we are a part of a larger spiritual war (Ephesians 6:10-12). Know that we have all sinned and will continue to do so (Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:10). Since we have freewill, we will sin and others will sin and we will suffer as a result. Not everything can be attributed to God testing us or be blamed on God. However, God will place obstacles before us to make us stronger, so we can grow. Trust Him and stay humble & strong.

     

  • Richard Mansel 11:38 am on June 4, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: hospital, minister, , prayer,   

    Planted Memories 

    Walking through one of the hospitals in Savannah, Georgia, I am thinking about my experiences here. I have been in the area for more than a decade and during that time I have been to this hospital countless times.

    As I walk and think, I realize that I have memories planted throughout the building. Some are happy and others bring sadness to my heart.

    • I spent five days in that room after surgery.
    • Here, I watched a brother in Christ hold his baby for the first time.
    • Over here, the parent of a sister in Christ passed away.
    • Back there, I sat and prayed with a family while a loved one was in surgery.
    • At that table, I had lunch with a fellow preacher.
    • There, I sat for six hours with parents terrified about their child’s brain surgery.
    • In that room, I sat with my wife and prayed that she would get well.
    • There, I visited with a man who refused prayer on his behalf.

    The memories proliferate, vivid and lasting. I carry them with me as markers on the path of ministry. Being with people when they are hurting, vulnerable and needy, you solidify bonds that will not grow elsewhere. You hurt for them and you are glad you are there to feel useful to their lives.

    God becomes very real when we feel helpless. In that respect, hospitals know God intimately.

    When we walk there, we see glimpses of Him in the tears, the pleadings and the hugs of jubilant families. If only everyone could and would realize that only the Great Physician offers the healing that will never fail (Psalm 107:20).

     

  • Eugene Adkins 6:03 pm on May 23, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , prayer,   

    Praying Together as a Body 

    Lessons upon lessons have been given over the importance of personal prayer; and rightly so. For one, the New Testament places a great emphasis upon the importance of it (Luke 11:1-8; 1 Thessalonians 5:17 & James 5:16-18). For another, despite the clear teaching, we often neglect it because of various reasons which sadly, more often than not, are really just excuses or doubt (Matthew 26:26-43 & James 1:5-8). We cannot say enough good things about the importance of prayer in our personal life, but one lesson concerning prayer that is often overlooked is the importance of praying as a body (1 Corinthians 12:12-14 & Colossians 1:18,24).

    Early in the book of Acts we find that the church made a habit of praying together! After Jesus returned to Heaven the Bible records concerning the apostles, “These all continued with one accord in prayer and   supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.” (Acts 1:14) When the church exploded after Pentecost, so did the habit of church prayer (Acts 2:42). They prayed together for boldness (Acts 4:23-31).  They prayed together in the face of persecution (Acts 12:5,12). The point is simply that the church had a desire to pray together (Acts 20:36).

    Today, when the church gathers together for worship, Bible study, times of sickness, fellowship meals, etc. our prayer as a body should not be neglected, ignored or underestimated! Gatherings are a prime opportunity for powerful body prayer. But for this to be true we must actually pray as a body. Please keep the following suggestions in mind:

    (1) Gatherings are an opportunity to make our concerns and anxieties known to each other and God. Do not be afraid to speak up.

    (2) The prayer leader must not forget about himself, but he must also keep in mind that for that moment he is representing a congregation sized prayer. A prayer of the body must be for the body. Leading prayer is not a time to preach – it is a time to pray.

    (3) Body prayer is meant to be done with respect and order just as any other form of worship found in the New Testament is meant to be. A chaotic group prayer is just that – chaotic! (1 Corinthians 14:14-19) Listen to the prayer leader as carefully as possible. Our “amen” must be said truthfully. If we do not listen to it then how can we say “amen” with it?

    (4) Remember who we are praying to! The Creator and Sustainer of our life and the church cares for us (1 Peter 5:7 & Matthew 18:18-20). We would not be taught to pray together if it did not work (1 Thessalonians 5:25). God was there for His church in the past and He is here for us today.

    A praying body is a strong body, a listening body, a loving body and a closer body. Powerful prayerful can come from a body that prays like a body should – together!

     

  • J. Randal Matheny 5:19 pm on March 16, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , Lexham English Bible, Logos Bible Software, prayer   

    Milestones, prayer, empty nest, &c. 

    Richard mentioned to me a few days back that he’d reached his 500th post on TFR. Congrats! That’s quite a milestone.

    • I noticed yesterday that I passed my 1000th post on my personal blog. Richard is good to note these, I tend to let them pass me by unnoticed unless I just happened to see it.

    • Finding a good Internet domain these days is tough. Most two-word combinations are not available, except for the lesser used endings like .name. The longer the domain name, the more unwieldy it becomes, and harder to remember. But I found one for a prayer site, if it ever gets off the ground.

    • For the alliteration lovers, I’m working on an outline on prayer. Remember the paint-by-numbers kits? The numbers tell you where and what color to paint. The Lord wants us to pray by name, by need, and by nation. That’s all experienced teachers and preachers may need, this little seed, to put together a good Bible lesson. (That’s one of the few alliterative lists that translates well into Portuguese: nome, necessidade, nação.)

    • At home, we’re gearing up to put on a going-away party for The Maiden. She’ll be living in the US for a time to work and study, living with one of her brothers. We’re going to have an empty nest, which will not be a syndrome but a sign of progress in our life of faith.

    • Oh, and last, the OT portion of the Lexham English Bible was released today for Logos Bible Software. Those of us who use an e-Sword adaptation for Mac will wait a bit yet. But it’s also on Biblia.com.

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    • Ron Thomas 5:23 am on March 17, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      I noticed some time back that I went over 700, I think. I didn’t think of it but with the exception that I am a bit wordy.**** I do have the LEB on my E-Sword already; used it a time or two for comparison. **** I like you alliteration.

      • J. Randal Matheny 5:45 am on March 17, 2012 Permalink | Reply

        Then another congratulations is in order! Thanks for your consistent and thoughtful posting, Ron.

        The LEB touts itself as your second translation for comparison’ sake. I check it some. Will be good to have the OT.

  • TFRStaff 6:51 am on March 16, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: intercession, prayer, prayer needs,   

    Share your prayer requests or thanksgivings 

    Do you need prayers? Click on Reply (upper right of this post; in emails, hit the Comment button) and share your requests for prayer, your thanksgivings, or a prayer of yours addressed to the Father.

    If you pray over one or more requests, please acknowledge with a quick reply of “Done” or “Prayed” or something similar, so the person who requested prayer will know.

    If a prayer requester wants to get an email when someone has prayed and replied, click the option “Notify me of follow-up comments via email.”

    This would be a very workable system, if we’ll use it. Perhaps a separate site might be best, however, so we’re studying that possibility.

     

    • Larry Miles 6:32 am on March 18, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      (From Yesterday) PRAYER for my Aunt, Laverne Collins. Got call this morning from Davita (Dialysis) that she had been taken to ER at Norton’s- the port for the dialysis treatments had come loose– I went up to ER and they transferred her to a room– She is in 5R5. I am going back at about 6pm– I think she’ll be there a few days and that they will probably do the procedures they were going to do later in week earlier. Please keep her in your prayers–more updates later–

    • Wayne 5:33 pm on April 22, 2012 Permalink | Reply

      Pray that God will soon break every stronghold that the enemy has over Carolyn and my life, So that we will be able to receive the blessings of God in our lives very soon. Thank you for your prayers, Wayne

  • J. Randal Matheny 6:47 am on March 15, 2012 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: browse, , prayer   

    Zip through or think through 

    This morning (or evening for Australians and Asians) you can read a quick Bible thought about prayer. Then you can pray this prayer on the keyword “harness.”

    After that, read four short lines of practical philosophy and some stiff motivation that sums up my book, so you won’t need to read it.

    Next, a blast from the past or just browse some recent work. That ought to put you through the middle of next week!

     

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