I often ask myself why I do those things I know God could not be pleased with. I ask myself but know the answer. It's plain and simple - I don't have a strong enough relationship with God to arm myself against the evils of this world. The times I fail are the times I've drifted from God. I pray, but I'm not devoted. I serve, but I'm not devoted. I study God's Word, but I'm not devoted. I care about the souls of others, but I'm not devoted. Without devotion, I sin. Why is having a dedicated relationship with God so hard? I know the answer to this question too. Again, it's plain and simple - my commitment to other things or people is somehow more important than spending quality time with my Savior, the very One who formed me and gave me life.
It's easy for us to spend more time and energy on those things that please us. When these pleasures are not being satisfied, it's easy to lose focus on what's important - maintaining a close bond. Many if not most long-distance human relationships don't last because they've lost a precious element - quality time. This element is so important for me and my fiancé. Without quality time, I know we would drift apart, and that's scary to think about. But what should scare me the most is my failed attempt to draw closer to God. My relationship with Him should be the most important to me now and forever. How am I to follow any divine leading in my life without talking to God, without asking for direction, without reaching for that fatherly hand to hold onto when life throws me thorns? It's impossible unless I'm willing to take the time to devote myself to the One who so desperately wants a renewed fellowship.
God is powerful, and He is the One and Only. That reality should be cause enough for us to fall at His feet and obey. Stormie Omartian encourages to read and consider Leviticus 10:1-7. In this passage, the sons of Aaron (the brother of Moses), Nadab and Abihu, are physically consumed by fire from God because they carried out an act they knew would be willfully disobedient. Not spending time with God is willful disobedience. My prayer is that God will forgive me for my carelessness and give me a strong passion for His teachings.
20.12.12
16.12.12
The Cost of Forgiveness
If you've never been to a Sight and Sound Performance, I highly recommend that you attend one. Jonah was performed tonight, and it was spectacular! The main theme of this true biblical story is forgiveness and loving those who have done you wrong. Jonah was so consumed by the past that he couldn't forget the sins of the Ninevites. Is that not what forgiveness is about, forgetting and moving forward? Easier said than done. On the drive home, I thought a great deal of my grandparents and my father, of a rightful decision made and the unnecessary animosity born from a situation that should have drawn a family closer together. That animosity planted a seed of bitterness in my heart that I carried for far too long but recently addressed with a simple phone call. Well, I say simple, but it was probably one of the hardest things I've ever had to do; however, I knew that phone call was in the hands of God. I'm hoping that my "going to Nineveh" will make a difference in the lives of my family and form relationships so binding that nothing will tear it asunder.
God's grace amazes me. We let him down time and time again yet His grace is sufficient. I don't deserve His forgiveness, but to receive that forgiveness, we must forgive others no matter how often they disappoint us (Matthew 6:15).
Stormie Omartian sheds light on Leviticus 1:1-13. In this passage, it is explained in detail how the people of the Old Testament had to "[pre-enact] the provision that was to come through Jesus." It's incredible how explicit the instructions were for the sacrifices that had to be performed. How wonderful it is that we can come to God (with a humble heart) and receive His forgiveness so freely given to those who are willing to forgive. He truly is an amazing Savior.
God's grace amazes me. We let him down time and time again yet His grace is sufficient. I don't deserve His forgiveness, but to receive that forgiveness, we must forgive others no matter how often they disappoint us (Matthew 6:15).
Stormie Omartian sheds light on Leviticus 1:1-13. In this passage, it is explained in detail how the people of the Old Testament had to "[pre-enact] the provision that was to come through Jesus." It's incredible how explicit the instructions were for the sacrifices that had to be performed. How wonderful it is that we can come to God (with a humble heart) and receive His forgiveness so freely given to those who are willing to forgive. He truly is an amazing Savior.
6.12.12
Interceding Prayer
Abraham, Moses, Ezra, Elijah, Daniel, Nehemiah, Jesus, Stephen, and Paul - these are the names of prominent men in the Bible who have prayerfully interceded for others. Stormie Omartian highlights Exodus 32:1-14, a passage where Moses intercedes for the Israelites. While Moses spent his time on the mountain talking to God through a burning bush, the Israelites busied themselves in the work of the Devil, creating a molten calf and worshipping this hopeless, sad excuse for a so-called "deliverer". God knows the "thoughts and intents" of our hearts just like He knew the wicked thoughts of the Israelites, thoughts empowered by mockery and distrust. Moses knew their thoughts too only because God revealed them to him; however, when God expressed His plan to destroy them, Moses pleaded on their behalf. Why? Moses held onto the promise God made for Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. Moses remembered God's promise to multiply their seed and provide land for inheritance. In reference to Ezekiel 22:30, Moses stood "in the gap". God seeks for those who are willing to stand up for what is righteous and true. Intercession correlates well with forgiveness. Are we willing to intercede for those who are obscene or obtuse? When we intercede for others, we become stronger in that we develop a more trusting spirit in the things of the Lord and the power held in the hands of our mighty God. Intercession is a powerful tool freely given to us so that we may make a difference in the lives of others.
24.1.12
Prayer
"Have you ever asked God to do something major in your life, and then experienced disappointment when He appeared to be working little by little rather than all at once?" This is the question Stormie Omartian raises at the start of her devotional entitled "The Power of Little by Little". The passage to read and consider is Exodus 23:20-30. In these verses, God promises "an angel" to protect the Israelites. According to the King James Study Bible, this angel must have been "the Angel of the covenant (Is. 63:9; Mal. 3:1), the preincarnate Christ Himself". The second half of verse 21 says, "...for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name is in him." Recall Luke 5:21 - "Who can forgive sins, but God alone?" The second promise God gives is found in verse 27: "I will send my fear before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee." In every battle fought, in every obstacle faced in the presence of their enemies, God promised to protect the Israelites by instilling fear within their adversaries.
The verse emphasized in this passage of Scripture is verse 30: "By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land." God has His will and way in carrying out every tiny detail of our lives IF we trust Him to follow through. The thing is, we have to be willing to be patient and let God work. When we take matters into our own hands instead of seeking the only ONE who truly knows what He's doing, the details God has been working on all along become distorted, and the plan so strategically layed out for us to follow may very well be ignored. Omartian highlights 2 Peter chapter 3 verses 8 and 9. Verse 9 says, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward." There is a reason we do not encounter immediate success in certain situations. Being patient is a golden characteristic truly inhabited when trust is at its best. Allowing God to work little by little in our lives will result in great change.
The verse emphasized in this passage of Scripture is verse 30: "By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land." God has His will and way in carrying out every tiny detail of our lives IF we trust Him to follow through. The thing is, we have to be willing to be patient and let God work. When we take matters into our own hands instead of seeking the only ONE who truly knows what He's doing, the details God has been working on all along become distorted, and the plan so strategically layed out for us to follow may very well be ignored. Omartian highlights 2 Peter chapter 3 verses 8 and 9. Verse 9 says, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward." There is a reason we do not encounter immediate success in certain situations. Being patient is a golden characteristic truly inhabited when trust is at its best. Allowing God to work little by little in our lives will result in great change.
21.11.11
Depression
Philippians 4:12
"I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things am I instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need."
Even in prison, in the worst of circumstances, Paul never gave up hope. He knew how to discipline himself, to be satisfied in all situations, and to go without certain pleasures. God never gives up on His children. The extent of guidance we receive from Him, however, depends on our willingness to trust Him. No matter how hard a trial may be, God is always willing to strengthen us in battle and to help us be content through them all. Though depression is considered a diagnosis, it is easy for Christians to fall into the trap of hopelessness and despair. When battles enter our lives, we must hold true to our faith and trust that God will enable us to win each one.
"I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things am I instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need."
Even in prison, in the worst of circumstances, Paul never gave up hope. He knew how to discipline himself, to be satisfied in all situations, and to go without certain pleasures. God never gives up on His children. The extent of guidance we receive from Him, however, depends on our willingness to trust Him. No matter how hard a trial may be, God is always willing to strengthen us in battle and to help us be content through them all. Though depression is considered a diagnosis, it is easy for Christians to fall into the trap of hopelessness and despair. When battles enter our lives, we must hold true to our faith and trust that God will enable us to win each one.
Depression
Nehemiah 8:10b
"...neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength."
Although there are times in our lives when sorrow overcomes joy, we must take courage and look to God for strength. No matter how great our sorrow is, the LORD is capable of providing the comfort we so desperately need. There is no trial too great and no valley too deep for our God. AS Christians, we are not to have countenances of constant sorrow or despair. Those who know we are Christians scrutinize our actions and our expressions when events do not ocur the way we had planned. We are to be true testimonies to those who are not Christians. Though there are different levels of depression, and though depression is lableled as a medical disorder, God is more than willing to proivde the strength and the determination to overcome our despair. Though medicine may help our physical needs, God can meet both physical and spiritual; we have to be willing to allow God to work.
"...neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength."
Although there are times in our lives when sorrow overcomes joy, we must take courage and look to God for strength. No matter how great our sorrow is, the LORD is capable of providing the comfort we so desperately need. There is no trial too great and no valley too deep for our God. AS Christians, we are not to have countenances of constant sorrow or despair. Those who know we are Christians scrutinize our actions and our expressions when events do not ocur the way we had planned. We are to be true testimonies to those who are not Christians. Though there are different levels of depression, and though depression is lableled as a medical disorder, God is more than willing to proivde the strength and the determination to overcome our despair. Though medicine may help our physical needs, God can meet both physical and spiritual; we have to be willing to allow God to work.
Depression
Psalm 16:11
"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Who is able to find himself in the presence of the LORD? Usually, it is during our deepest points in life that we find ourselves closest to God. Why is that? Though it is a sin, we tend to look to God the most when we think we need Him more when in truth, we need Him just the same every second of every hour of every day. Joy can be found in the LORD always. We have to realize, though, that it is imperative we give God our time even when we have days that do not transpire the way we had hoped them to. For some people, depression is a constant struggle. No matter how depressed a person may be, there is no single family member, friend, or spouse that can provide the peace and joy that only God can supply. God will show His children the "path of life" and the pleasures that come only when we seek Him continually.
"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Who is able to find himself in the presence of the LORD? Usually, it is during our deepest points in life that we find ourselves closest to God. Why is that? Though it is a sin, we tend to look to God the most when we think we need Him more when in truth, we need Him just the same every second of every hour of every day. Joy can be found in the LORD always. We have to realize, though, that it is imperative we give God our time even when we have days that do not transpire the way we had hoped them to. For some people, depression is a constant struggle. No matter how depressed a person may be, there is no single family member, friend, or spouse that can provide the peace and joy that only God can supply. God will show His children the "path of life" and the pleasures that come only when we seek Him continually.
Depression
John 16:24
"Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."
Often, we Christians depend on our own strength to lead us through troubling times. If we exclude God from our needs, how can we expect Him to help us in times of distress? The LORD commands us to depend on Him completely. If we learn to depend on Him, we will not be so hasty to turn to other people as soon as the worst happens. The LORD should be the first that we turn to when we need encouragement or comfort. Though we cannot hear God's voice, we can certainly experience His leading and guidance. If we ask God for the power to overcome our anguish and believe that He will, we will receive His blessing and the joy that He promises to provide. Depression can be a struggle that will cause us to stumble spiritually and emotionally if we allow it to by not fully depending on God's strength and His supreme power.
"Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."
Often, we Christians depend on our own strength to lead us through troubling times. If we exclude God from our needs, how can we expect Him to help us in times of distress? The LORD commands us to depend on Him completely. If we learn to depend on Him, we will not be so hasty to turn to other people as soon as the worst happens. The LORD should be the first that we turn to when we need encouragement or comfort. Though we cannot hear God's voice, we can certainly experience His leading and guidance. If we ask God for the power to overcome our anguish and believe that He will, we will receive His blessing and the joy that He promises to provide. Depression can be a struggle that will cause us to stumble spiritually and emotionally if we allow it to by not fully depending on God's strength and His supreme power.
Depression
John 14:27
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
As Christians living in a sinful world, it is not extremely difficult to yield into temptations and sin. Sinning can even mean turning to family and friends for comfort first instead of seeking God's love. It is easy to turn to a family member when the day's events do not occur as we had hoped or when an unexpected tragedy overwhelms us and leads us to our breaking point. God never promised us a life free from tribulations. It is not a sin to be saddened during a tragedy or loss; however, it is a sin if we fail to look to God, our Heavenly Maker, for that peace that He humbly gives if we only ask. God does promise to never give us more than we can bear, and He does promise to give us the strength we need to overcome temptations and struggles. Life is full of disasters and unanticipated outcomes, but as believers, we are to hold fast our faith and trust God to calm the troubles of our hearts.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
As Christians living in a sinful world, it is not extremely difficult to yield into temptations and sin. Sinning can even mean turning to family and friends for comfort first instead of seeking God's love. It is easy to turn to a family member when the day's events do not occur as we had hoped or when an unexpected tragedy overwhelms us and leads us to our breaking point. God never promised us a life free from tribulations. It is not a sin to be saddened during a tragedy or loss; however, it is a sin if we fail to look to God, our Heavenly Maker, for that peace that He humbly gives if we only ask. God does promise to never give us more than we can bear, and He does promise to give us the strength we need to overcome temptations and struggles. Life is full of disasters and unanticipated outcomes, but as believers, we are to hold fast our faith and trust God to calm the troubles of our hearts.
19.11.11
Worry
Deuteronomy 31:8
"And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."
Christians are constantly battling the temptation of worry. Though worrying is a sin, Christians tend to fall into the pit of agonizing concern whenever toubles enter their lives. What we often forget is the fact that Jesus has already been through those troubles and surpassed them all. The LORD has promised that He knows what lies before us and that He will always be with us as we travel the various roads in life. No matter what kind of struggle we find ourselves in, He will never leave us stranded to fight on our own. With His assuring promises, we have no need to worry about tomorrow or the weeks, months, or even years to come.
"And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed."
Christians are constantly battling the temptation of worry. Though worrying is a sin, Christians tend to fall into the pit of agonizing concern whenever toubles enter their lives. What we often forget is the fact that Jesus has already been through those troubles and surpassed them all. The LORD has promised that He knows what lies before us and that He will always be with us as we travel the various roads in life. No matter what kind of struggle we find ourselves in, He will never leave us stranded to fight on our own. With His assuring promises, we have no need to worry about tomorrow or the weeks, months, or even years to come.
Worry
Psalm 9:9-10
"The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee."
As Christians, we are instructed to seek the LORD daily. When we give God our time, He is willing to give us His and help us in times of need. Whenever worry starts to settle into our lives, whether it is worry about meeting a certain deadline at work, about a family member's health, or about the next President of the United States, we must seek the refuge that the LORD consistently offers - His Word. When we are constantly seeking the LORD's guidance through His Word, we find it easier to trust Him in everything. We are promised that refuge of comfort and rest from all worries as long as we take the time to learn from our Omnipotent Creator.
"The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee."
As Christians, we are instructed to seek the LORD daily. When we give God our time, He is willing to give us His and help us in times of need. Whenever worry starts to settle into our lives, whether it is worry about meeting a certain deadline at work, about a family member's health, or about the next President of the United States, we must seek the refuge that the LORD consistently offers - His Word. When we are constantly seeking the LORD's guidance through His Word, we find it easier to trust Him in everything. We are promised that refuge of comfort and rest from all worries as long as we take the time to learn from our Omnipotent Creator.
Worry
Psalm 37:3-5, 7a
"Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him."
Whenever we Christians begin to worry, it is a sign of possessing little faith in our LORD Jesus Christ. Trusting our LORD in everything should substitute our feelings of worry or concern. Abiding by God's Word assures us that God will meet all our needs. If we are to receive the calm still spirit that only our Savior can offer us, we must study His Word with a joyful attitude. Be willing to do that which the LORD commands, and He will rescue us from worry's grip. Entrusting every care unto the LORD testifes to our faith in Him and our willingness to wait for His blessings in His perfect time.
"Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him."
Whenever we Christians begin to worry, it is a sign of possessing little faith in our LORD Jesus Christ. Trusting our LORD in everything should substitute our feelings of worry or concern. Abiding by God's Word assures us that God will meet all our needs. If we are to receive the calm still spirit that only our Savior can offer us, we must study His Word with a joyful attitude. Be willing to do that which the LORD commands, and He will rescue us from worry's grip. Entrusting every care unto the LORD testifes to our faith in Him and our willingness to wait for His blessings in His perfect time.
Worry
Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Though we Christians are to place our trust in the LORD, we tend to believe that we can do everything in our own power. Usually it is during those periods in our lives when we try to lean on our mortal strength when worry starts to fill our hearts. When we finally lean on God's strength to get us through every day, worry becomes a thing of the past, and turst in God fills the void of the present. Before making any decision, no matter how big or small, we are to acknowledge our Father and His will for our lives. Though God has given His children the power of chocie, as born-again believers, we are to consult our Heavenly King in everything. As long as we turst our LORD to direct our ways and cast out all worries, He is willing to help us in every need, whatever that need may be.
"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Though we Christians are to place our trust in the LORD, we tend to believe that we can do everything in our own power. Usually it is during those periods in our lives when we try to lean on our mortal strength when worry starts to fill our hearts. When we finally lean on God's strength to get us through every day, worry becomes a thing of the past, and turst in God fills the void of the present. Before making any decision, no matter how big or small, we are to acknowledge our Father and His will for our lives. Though God has given His children the power of chocie, as born-again believers, we are to consult our Heavenly King in everything. As long as we turst our LORD to direct our ways and cast out all worries, He is willing to help us in every need, whatever that need may be.
Worry
Isaiah 43:1b-3a
"Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Savior."
"From the moment we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are redeemed through His blood. From that moment, we have no need to worry or fear over anything. When we put our faith in Jesus Christ, we become children of the King for all eternity. If we can trust God and His promise of an eternal kingdom, we can trust Him in our daily struggles. As we pass through the waters, as we face the loss of a close family member or friend, we need not worry about the future because God will be right there beside us. As we walk through fire, as we face brutality from others, we need not worry because God will still be there. Our Savior is there to engulf us with His love whenever we begin to worry.
"Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Savior."
"From the moment we accept Jesus as our personal Savior, we are redeemed through His blood. From that moment, we have no need to worry or fear over anything. When we put our faith in Jesus Christ, we become children of the King for all eternity. If we can trust God and His promise of an eternal kingdom, we can trust Him in our daily struggles. As we pass through the waters, as we face the loss of a close family member or friend, we need not worry about the future because God will be right there beside us. As we walk through fire, as we face brutality from others, we need not worry because God will still be there. Our Savior is there to engulf us with His love whenever we begin to worry.
Worry
Matthew 6:8b, 31-34
"...for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 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."
Though our Father already knows what our needs are before we even come to Him in prayer, this does not mean that we can exclude prayer from our lives. Part of our everyday walk with the LORD is communicating with Him our praises, as well as our worries and fears, as a testament to our faith that He will work everyhing together for good. Faith is having total confidence in God's provision, whether that provision concerns food, drink, clothing, academics, career choices, or other specific individual or family needs. When our focus is on our daily walk with the LORD and drawing closer to Him, He takes notice and provides the needed materials. When our focus is on the material instead of the LORD, we cannot expect our Father to provide all our needs. Putting our faith in God for handling all our troubles allows us to take one day at a time, not worrying how everything will work out in the end.
"...for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 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."
Though our Father already knows what our needs are before we even come to Him in prayer, this does not mean that we can exclude prayer from our lives. Part of our everyday walk with the LORD is communicating with Him our praises, as well as our worries and fears, as a testament to our faith that He will work everyhing together for good. Faith is having total confidence in God's provision, whether that provision concerns food, drink, clothing, academics, career choices, or other specific individual or family needs. When our focus is on our daily walk with the LORD and drawing closer to Him, He takes notice and provides the needed materials. When our focus is on the material instead of the LORD, we cannot expect our Father to provide all our needs. Putting our faith in God for handling all our troubles allows us to take one day at a time, not worrying how everything will work out in the end.
Worry
Philippians 4:6-7
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Being careful for nothing is interpreted as not worrying or being anxious about anything. There are many instances in life when worry exceeds hope or joy. Worrying is a natural response to events with possible life-altering results, such as a loved done who is about to undergo a serious surgery or even dropping your last child off to a distant college. When situations as these enter our lives, it is imperative that we make our requests known to God. By praying to our Father, we can have full assurance that He will listen to our concerns and provide the needed comfort. When we entrust all our anxieties and fears into God's hands, we are able to receive that peace that only He provides, a peace that we cannot even put into words or understand. As long as we keep our focus on the LORD, He will sustain us.
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Being careful for nothing is interpreted as not worrying or being anxious about anything. There are many instances in life when worry exceeds hope or joy. Worrying is a natural response to events with possible life-altering results, such as a loved done who is about to undergo a serious surgery or even dropping your last child off to a distant college. When situations as these enter our lives, it is imperative that we make our requests known to God. By praying to our Father, we can have full assurance that He will listen to our concerns and provide the needed comfort. When we entrust all our anxieties and fears into God's hands, we are able to receive that peace that only He provides, a peace that we cannot even put into words or understand. As long as we keep our focus on the LORD, He will sustain us.
15.8.11
Prayer
In Genesis 35:1-15, Jacob decided to firmly follow God and praise Him for His sovereignty. Omartian asks the following question in the beginning of this study, "The Power of Praise": "How often do you take the time to remember what God has done for you and thank Him for it?" We shouldn't come to God just to ask something of Him. He is not a genie who grants wishes. We are not to come to Him only for help in less-than-fortunate circumstances. Sounds like a one-way love to me. Perhaps you are married. Imagine only ever asking your spouse for things but never expressing your thankfulness toward him or your love for him. Imagine if he was the only one to express his love for you. Would that be fair? Of course it wouldn't. Jacob loved God enough to rid his family of false gods and to take the time to build an altar solely for Him, to recognize His goodness though undeserved. How amazing is God's love! It is unconditional. That's certainly worth praising God for! He sacrificed His life for us so that we could be free, a choice not to be taken for granted. A love expressed through our Maker is a love no human being will ever understand. Remember, God deserves our praise!
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