One of the devil's plans for young people is to get them to compare themselves with others, judge themselves as deficient, and then seek to be someone they were not created to be. Our prayers can block this plan of the enemy and give our children a clear vision of themselves and their future. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
Exposing the devil's plans helps others avoid being entangled in them. What Ms. Omartian mentioned in this devotion, is definitely true. While most of the comparison may be in the physical (looks, material things, how many friends they have or don't have); our children may be deceived into comparing themselves with others spiritually as well.
When I read the devotion, I immediately remembered the scripture that says God gives us all a "measure of faith". I remember being around some of my sisters in faith and watching them operate in the Spirit; praying, speaking in tongues, laying hands on people, teaching, and preaching...and thinking that my faith was weak because I wasn't flowing like them. I also had not gone through what they had gone through! When we compare ourselves to others, we will always sin because we will judge ourselves and envy the person who is the object of our comparison. Eventually, we may even try to be the other person or something God never intended us to be...all because we didn't recognize the standard or measure to which God was holding us accountable.
Don't copy the behavior or customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us. Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other. In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly. (Romans 12:2-8, NLT)
Lord, as we pray for our children, help us to provide them with a vision of themselves according to how You see them. Help us to remind them that before they were formed; You knew them! Help us to remind them that You have plans to prosper them, to give them hope and a future. Help us to remind them that You have called them fearfully and wonderfully made. Help them to see what you see and know that the only person they need to compare themselves to is Christ. In Jesus name, Amen!
Friday, May 31, 2013
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
May 28
Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalm 91:1-2
The four names for God in this psalm describe different aspects of his protection. (1) "Most High" shows him to be greater than any threat we face; (2) "Almighty" emphasizes his power to confront and destroy every enemy; (3) "the Lord" assures us that his presence is always with us; and (4) "my God" expresses the truth that God has chosen to associate intimately with those who trust in him. (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
The name I like the most in this psalm is "ALMIGHTY"! Being the oldest of my mother's children (I have older siblings by my dad), I always wanted a older brother or sister whom I could run to if I needed someone to confront an enemy. Things haven't changed with regard to me wanting that enemy confronted, however; now I know that the enemy is already defeated! We have the whole armor of God to put on and STAND FIRM. All of our weapons are defensive except the word of God which, although it's called a "sword"; we only have to speak it for the offense. The Almighty is the one that destroys every enemy...so glad He's got my back!
Thank you Father for giving us a place of refuge and for being our fortress...our place of "exceptional security". We don't have to worry about anything or anyone when we're in the secret place. We pray that our children seek out the shelter of the Most High God in the midst of their trials. We cannot always be with them, so we pray that they know You as Lord and Your presence is with them WHEN he/she commits themselves to your will and protection. We trust You. In Jesus name, Amen!
The four names for God in this psalm describe different aspects of his protection. (1) "Most High" shows him to be greater than any threat we face; (2) "Almighty" emphasizes his power to confront and destroy every enemy; (3) "the Lord" assures us that his presence is always with us; and (4) "my God" expresses the truth that God has chosen to associate intimately with those who trust in him. (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
The name I like the most in this psalm is "ALMIGHTY"! Being the oldest of my mother's children (I have older siblings by my dad), I always wanted a older brother or sister whom I could run to if I needed someone to confront an enemy. Things haven't changed with regard to me wanting that enemy confronted, however; now I know that the enemy is already defeated! We have the whole armor of God to put on and STAND FIRM. All of our weapons are defensive except the word of God which, although it's called a "sword"; we only have to speak it for the offense. The Almighty is the one that destroys every enemy...so glad He's got my back!
Thank you Father for giving us a place of refuge and for being our fortress...our place of "exceptional security". We don't have to worry about anything or anyone when we're in the secret place. We pray that our children seek out the shelter of the Most High God in the midst of their trials. We cannot always be with them, so we pray that they know You as Lord and Your presence is with them WHEN he/she commits themselves to your will and protection. We trust You. In Jesus name, Amen!
Monday, May 27, 2013
May 25 - Blessed in the city; Blessed in the field!
Lord, as my child learns to pray, may he/she also learn to listen for Your voice. May there always be a Holy Spirit fire in his/her heart and an unwavering desire for the things of God. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
Just because we hear something, doesn't mean that we're listening! Have you ever had someone talking to you and your mind is elsewhere? So much so, that even though the person is standing right in front of you, you have to ask him/her to repeat what they just said...because you weren't listening.
Too often, when we pray; we go to God with our list of requests, give Him our time frame, thank Him (because we KNOW He's going to do what we asked) and then we go on our merry way. But how often do we listen to hear His voice? The first line of Ms. Omartian's prayer says so much about what's important in the process of praying.
Deuteronomy 28:1-3 says, "And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field. "The blessing of God is conditional. God's people must make a choice: either blessing through obedience or cursing through disobedience (Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Jeremiah 7:5,7)". (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
Heavenly Father, give us an ear to always hear AND LISTEN to your voice. In Jesus name, Amen!
Just because we hear something, doesn't mean that we're listening! Have you ever had someone talking to you and your mind is elsewhere? So much so, that even though the person is standing right in front of you, you have to ask him/her to repeat what they just said...because you weren't listening.
Too often, when we pray; we go to God with our list of requests, give Him our time frame, thank Him (because we KNOW He's going to do what we asked) and then we go on our merry way. But how often do we listen to hear His voice? The first line of Ms. Omartian's prayer says so much about what's important in the process of praying.
Deuteronomy 28:1-3 says, "And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field. "The blessing of God is conditional. God's people must make a choice: either blessing through obedience or cursing through disobedience (Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Jeremiah 7:5,7)". (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
Heavenly Father, give us an ear to always hear AND LISTEN to your voice. In Jesus name, Amen!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
May 26 - Teach me Your way!
Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. 12 I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. Psalm 86:11-12 (NIV)
In the midst of his trouble, the psalmist humbly asks God to teach him His ways and His truth, that he might fear God from the heart. When we are experiencing trials and difficulties, we must cry out to God for wisdom to walk in his ways and for a heart that truly fears and delights in His truth. (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
The study notes that are quoted above advise us that during trials and difficulties; "we must cry out to God" and I couldn't agree more. One of the biggest tricks of the enemy is ISOLATION! As believers, we have been duped into thinking that our faith is evidenced by how much and how long we can endure suffering. Often we suffer in silence, giving satan an even greater advantage. Now I know that there are some things we must go through alone in order for us to gain our next measure of faith; however, there is a reason we have the extended family called the body of Christ, which we're members. Leviticus 26:7-8 says "You will pursue your enemies, and they will fall by the sword before you. 8 Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you." You need at least four other people that you trust and can confide in when you're going through...together you can scatter your enemies!
Lord, help us and our children to rely solely on your faithfulness when we're in the midst of trials. Remind us that even though our pity party seems warm and fuzzy, that's not where You want us to remain. Help us to receive Your wisdom and truth to combat the lies and deceit of satan. Help us as parents to create an "open door policy" for our children to come to us when they're in need and more importantly, show them that they can walk through that open door without concern of judgment. Just as You've given us access, we must do the same for them. #ACCESS_GRANTED #NO_ISOLATION
In Jesus name, Amen!
In the midst of his trouble, the psalmist humbly asks God to teach him His ways and His truth, that he might fear God from the heart. When we are experiencing trials and difficulties, we must cry out to God for wisdom to walk in his ways and for a heart that truly fears and delights in His truth. (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
The study notes that are quoted above advise us that during trials and difficulties; "we must cry out to God" and I couldn't agree more. One of the biggest tricks of the enemy is ISOLATION! As believers, we have been duped into thinking that our faith is evidenced by how much and how long we can endure suffering. Often we suffer in silence, giving satan an even greater advantage. Now I know that there are some things we must go through alone in order for us to gain our next measure of faith; however, there is a reason we have the extended family called the body of Christ, which we're members. Leviticus 26:7-8 says "You will pursue your enemies, and they will fall by the sword before you. 8 Five of you will chase a hundred, and a hundred of you will chase ten thousand, and your enemies will fall by the sword before you." You need at least four other people that you trust and can confide in when you're going through...together you can scatter your enemies!
Lord, help us and our children to rely solely on your faithfulness when we're in the midst of trials. Remind us that even though our pity party seems warm and fuzzy, that's not where You want us to remain. Help us to receive Your wisdom and truth to combat the lies and deceit of satan. Help us as parents to create an "open door policy" for our children to come to us when they're in need and more importantly, show them that they can walk through that open door without concern of judgment. Just as You've given us access, we must do the same for them. #ACCESS_GRANTED #NO_ISOLATION
In Jesus name, Amen!
Friday, May 24, 2013
May 24
Lord, as my child learns to read Your Word, write Your law in his/her mind and on his/her heart so that he/she always walks with a confident assurance of the righteousness of Your commands. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
The other day I was explaining to my son the importance of doing what's right. I shared with him one way to do what's right is to always tell the truth because the truth will always be the truth. On the other hand, when we lie; we have to remember the lie so we don't contradict ourselves and expose the lie...it's just best (and easier) to tell the truth!
Having the word of God within us gives us the confident assurance Ms. Omartian mentions in the prayer above. Psalm 119:11 says, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." We are not to be arrogant about the "confident assurance", but instead very sure about the promises and guidance God gives us in His word. The assurance comes from the fact that God is faithful; He is not a man that He would lie; He is all-knowing and sovereign. He is the greatest power and He has the final say!
Thank you Lord for the confident assurance in the righteousness of Your commands. We don't have to worry or fear when we're in Your will. When You write Your law in the hearts and minds of our children; we pray that Your law will take root there and grow each day to be the authority for our children which orders their steps. In Jesus name, Amen!
The other day I was explaining to my son the importance of doing what's right. I shared with him one way to do what's right is to always tell the truth because the truth will always be the truth. On the other hand, when we lie; we have to remember the lie so we don't contradict ourselves and expose the lie...it's just best (and easier) to tell the truth!
Having the word of God within us gives us the confident assurance Ms. Omartian mentions in the prayer above. Psalm 119:11 says, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." We are not to be arrogant about the "confident assurance", but instead very sure about the promises and guidance God gives us in His word. The assurance comes from the fact that God is faithful; He is not a man that He would lie; He is all-knowing and sovereign. He is the greatest power and He has the final say!
Thank you Lord for the confident assurance in the righteousness of Your commands. We don't have to worry or fear when we're in Your will. When You write Your law in the hearts and minds of our children; we pray that Your law will take root there and grow each day to be the authority for our children which orders their steps. In Jesus name, Amen!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
May 22 - What's your testimony?
Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. Psalm 119:2
As I was leaving the post office today, a woman said to me; "I like your license plate"(I thought she was going to compliment my locs!). She went on to say, "it says TESTIMONY right?" I have personalized license plates that read 'TSTIMNY' and when I confirmed that she had read them right; she said something to me that change the outcome of my day and possibly my life...she said, "what's your testimony?"
I jokingly said to her, "oh, you don't have enough time for me to tell it all" and she responded, "well maybe hearing just a little bit will bless me today". Really God?!? As I shared a condensed version of all that God has done for me, another woman came over and asked us what church we attended because she overheard us talking about the "blood of the lamb".
When I left the post office, I thought about all the things that God has done in my life, with my life and through my life. I thought about the things I used to do, places I used to go and people I used to hang out with that I don't even see anymore (and y'all know Columbus is not that big). I thought about the things that could've happened and didn't, as well as the things that did happen and instead of the worst, God allowed me to use the situation for His glory and even to bless someone else. I thought about my health and strength; my healed heart from an absent father; my marriage to a wonderful husband, in spite of having daddy issues; my children, who are not perfect but they're mine and they're here; my family (as crazy as they are) that will rally around me at the slightest hint of hurt in my voice...excuse me for a minute while I give Him glory....THANK YA, THANK YA, THANK YA!!!! I had to stop thinking about it because I was on my way to an appointment and didn't want to pull over on interstate 70 west. The point is, at any given time, we should all be able to give a testimony to the goodness of the Lord. We should be a witness for the kingdom. What's your testimony?
Thank you Father for all the blessings You've bestowed upon me! For deliverance, healing, provision, promises kept, hearing my prayers, keeping my children, watching over and protecting us from dangers seen and unseen, for strength made perfect in my weakness, for helping me up when I fall, for the full armour of God and the fruit of Your Spirit. There is so much more You require of me and I will no longer fall short. To whom much is given, much is required...I will seek You with my whole heart. #WITNESS In Jesus name, Amen!
As I was leaving the post office today, a woman said to me; "I like your license plate"(I thought she was going to compliment my locs!). She went on to say, "it says TESTIMONY right?" I have personalized license plates that read 'TSTIMNY' and when I confirmed that she had read them right; she said something to me that change the outcome of my day and possibly my life...she said, "what's your testimony?"
I jokingly said to her, "oh, you don't have enough time for me to tell it all" and she responded, "well maybe hearing just a little bit will bless me today". Really God?!? As I shared a condensed version of all that God has done for me, another woman came over and asked us what church we attended because she overheard us talking about the "blood of the lamb".
When I left the post office, I thought about all the things that God has done in my life, with my life and through my life. I thought about the things I used to do, places I used to go and people I used to hang out with that I don't even see anymore (and y'all know Columbus is not that big). I thought about the things that could've happened and didn't, as well as the things that did happen and instead of the worst, God allowed me to use the situation for His glory and even to bless someone else. I thought about my health and strength; my healed heart from an absent father; my marriage to a wonderful husband, in spite of having daddy issues; my children, who are not perfect but they're mine and they're here; my family (as crazy as they are) that will rally around me at the slightest hint of hurt in my voice...excuse me for a minute while I give Him glory....THANK YA, THANK YA, THANK YA!!!! I had to stop thinking about it because I was on my way to an appointment and didn't want to pull over on interstate 70 west. The point is, at any given time, we should all be able to give a testimony to the goodness of the Lord. We should be a witness for the kingdom. What's your testimony?
Thank you Father for all the blessings You've bestowed upon me! For deliverance, healing, provision, promises kept, hearing my prayers, keeping my children, watching over and protecting us from dangers seen and unseen, for strength made perfect in my weakness, for helping me up when I fall, for the full armour of God and the fruit of Your Spirit. There is so much more You require of me and I will no longer fall short. To whom much is given, much is required...I will seek You with my whole heart. #WITNESS In Jesus name, Amen!
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
May 21 - YES!
I pray that my child will have a teachable and submissive spirit that says "yes" to the things of God and "no" to the things of the flesh. Strengthen him/her to stand strong in his/her convictions. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
There's nothing like a "know-it-all" child! I sometimes have to remind my ten year old son that I have the benefit of a few years over him and I know a few more things than he does. If you're not teachable; it's safe to say that you're not growing because the more you know, the more you grow. We have to be diligent in praying that our children are teachable in order for them to continue growing and to ensure they are equipped for life.
When we pray that our children submit to the things of God, we should also pray for their strength and ours. Anyone that knows anything about submission, knows that the greatest struggle is mostly in the mind. Submitting to the things of God may seem to our children like they're giving up or losing something, BUT in reality submission to God, grants admission to peace, protection and power through His will. Saying "yes" to the things of God are not always easy because it challenges our comfort. God rarely asks us to do something that is within our capacity...mainly because we'd most likely take credit for it. When our children are teachable and submissive to the Spirit; God can stretch and grow them...something that's necessary for them to be effective in their walk.
We pray that our children say YES!
http://youtu.be/vK47InW6EhY
There's nothing like a "know-it-all" child! I sometimes have to remind my ten year old son that I have the benefit of a few years over him and I know a few more things than he does. If you're not teachable; it's safe to say that you're not growing because the more you know, the more you grow. We have to be diligent in praying that our children are teachable in order for them to continue growing and to ensure they are equipped for life.
When we pray that our children submit to the things of God, we should also pray for their strength and ours. Anyone that knows anything about submission, knows that the greatest struggle is mostly in the mind. Submitting to the things of God may seem to our children like they're giving up or losing something, BUT in reality submission to God, grants admission to peace, protection and power through His will. Saying "yes" to the things of God are not always easy because it challenges our comfort. God rarely asks us to do something that is within our capacity...mainly because we'd most likely take credit for it. When our children are teachable and submissive to the Spirit; God can stretch and grow them...something that's necessary for them to be effective in their walk.
We pray that our children say YES!
http://youtu.be/vK47InW6EhY
May 20 - Benefits of Life in the Spirit
Start right now by praying for your child to fear God, have faith in Him and His Word, and develop the kind of heart that seeks after Him. This could be the determining factor in whether your child will have a constant struggle living in the flesh or be fulfilled and blessed living in the Spirit. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
This is what the bible says about "Living in the Spirit".
This is what the bible says about "Living in the Spirit".
Life in the Spirit
8 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. 3 The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. 4 He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit. 5 Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. 6 So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. 7 For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will. 8 That’s why those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God. 9 But you are not controlled by your sinful nature. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) 10 And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. 11 The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. 12 Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. 13 For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15 So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” 16 For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. 17 And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering.
The Future Glory
18 Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. 19 For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. 20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. 22 For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us. 24 We were given this hope when we were saved. (If we already have something, we don’t need to hope for it. 25 But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) 26 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. 27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. 28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. 29 For God knew his people in advance, and he chose them to become like his Son, so that his Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And having chosen them, he called them to come to him. And having called them, he gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, he gave them his glory.
Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love
31 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? 32 Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? 33 Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. 34 Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us. 35 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? 36 (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”) 37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. 38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.
AMEN!
Sunday, May 19, 2013
May 19 - Why we pray!
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. James 5:16 (KJV)
In the above scripture, the phrase that grabs me is "The effectual fervent..." When I looked into the meaning of this phrase, this is what I found.
The phrase is translated from the word energeō (en-er-ge'-ō) which, in context, means "does not have the force of an adj., but gives the reason why the δέησις (prayer) of a righteous man(woman) has outward success, as due to the fact that it exhibits it's activity ["works"] (inwardly), i.e. is solemn and earnest." The word energeō comes from the root word energēs (en-er-gā's) which the biblical usage simply means "active".
Over the last week, hundreds of people prayed in agreement for a family that lost their son, brother, grandson, nephew, Kwesi Sample. There was a great outpouring of love and support for the family to have peace, comfort and closure. However, it was not until Momma Bear aka Raynette Lovingmybabies Cornish made her earnest plea for the saints to pray and that her son "come up" that the waters released him. This mother personified scripture in every sense of the word because God recognized the "works" of her prayer...it was an "active" prayer, "from a place a mother saves for her children". There is indeed power in prayer! The faith and strength of this family will undoubtedly be an opportunity for the gospel to go forth...and this is why we pray!
Thank you Lord for hearing and answering prayers! We know that You will get the glory in all of this and we pray that you continue to hold us all in Your unfailing arms. Let not our hearts be troubled because we believe in You. In Jesus name, Amen!
In the above scripture, the phrase that grabs me is "The effectual fervent..." When I looked into the meaning of this phrase, this is what I found.
The phrase is translated from the word energeō (en-er-ge'-ō) which, in context, means "does not have the force of an adj., but gives the reason why the δέησις (prayer) of a righteous man(woman) has outward success, as due to the fact that it exhibits it's activity ["works"] (inwardly), i.e. is solemn and earnest." The word energeō comes from the root word energēs (en-er-gā's) which the biblical usage simply means "active".
Over the last week, hundreds of people prayed in agreement for a family that lost their son, brother, grandson, nephew, Kwesi Sample. There was a great outpouring of love and support for the family to have peace, comfort and closure. However, it was not until Momma Bear aka Raynette Lovingmybabies Cornish made her earnest plea for the saints to pray and that her son "come up" that the waters released him. This mother personified scripture in every sense of the word because God recognized the "works" of her prayer...it was an "active" prayer, "from a place a mother saves for her children". There is indeed power in prayer! The faith and strength of this family will undoubtedly be an opportunity for the gospel to go forth...and this is why we pray!
Thank you Lord for hearing and answering prayers! We know that You will get the glory in all of this and we pray that you continue to hold us all in Your unfailing arms. Let not our hearts be troubled because we believe in You. In Jesus name, Amen!
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
May 15 - Heavy Heart
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
8 Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters[b] all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.
10 In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. 11 All power to him forever! Amen. 1 Peter 5:7-11 (NLT)
It's been said that after every mountain top experience; there will be a valley! On Monday of this week; I woke up feeling anxious...almost in a panic. Now why would this be, if I was just getting up from a peaceful sleep?!? I'll tell you why, because the devil was on the prowl...he always is! If there's one thing I can say about satan is that, he is always on his job! He does not get tired and he does not take a break. He is serious about his mission because he knows his time is short. If only we were as committed to our ministries and missions...
Today I found out that my friend's son was swimming, pulled under by a current and after rescue attempt presumed dead. In my mind, I can't stop asking WHY? Why this family? Why my friend, who is so devoted, giving and loving to her children? Why this way, with so many questions? And then I was reminded of another time that God allowed us to walk through a similar situation with another couple that lost a child. What we didn't understand then (and truthfully I still don't grasp it all), we now accept as the sovereign will of God. I pray that we hold onto the promise in 1 Peter 5:10 that "after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation."
Father God, we know that Your thoughts are not our thoughts and Your ways are not our ways, so help us Lord to return to the safe place of Your will. Your word says "Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you...", so Lord, we draw nigh to you and ask You to draw us in and hold us close. We need a place of refuge today, to renew, refuel and replenish as we go through. I ask that you comfort my friend and her family, give them peace and closure. We know you're able! In Jesus name, Amen!
It's been said that after every mountain top experience; there will be a valley! On Monday of this week; I woke up feeling anxious...almost in a panic. Now why would this be, if I was just getting up from a peaceful sleep?!? I'll tell you why, because the devil was on the prowl...he always is! If there's one thing I can say about satan is that, he is always on his job! He does not get tired and he does not take a break. He is serious about his mission because he knows his time is short. If only we were as committed to our ministries and missions...
Today I found out that my friend's son was swimming, pulled under by a current and after rescue attempt presumed dead. In my mind, I can't stop asking WHY? Why this family? Why my friend, who is so devoted, giving and loving to her children? Why this way, with so many questions? And then I was reminded of another time that God allowed us to walk through a similar situation with another couple that lost a child. What we didn't understand then (and truthfully I still don't grasp it all), we now accept as the sovereign will of God. I pray that we hold onto the promise in 1 Peter 5:10 that "after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation."
Father God, we know that Your thoughts are not our thoughts and Your ways are not our ways, so help us Lord to return to the safe place of Your will. Your word says "Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you...", so Lord, we draw nigh to you and ask You to draw us in and hold us close. We need a place of refuge today, to renew, refuel and replenish as we go through. I ask that you comfort my friend and her family, give them peace and closure. We know you're able! In Jesus name, Amen!
Sunday, May 12, 2013
May 12 - The War for Your Seed!
And when the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which brought forth the man child. 14 And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness, into her place, where she is nourished for a time, and times, and half a time, from the face of the serpent. 15 And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause her to be carried away of the flood. 16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ. (Revelation 12:13-17)
The twelfth chapter of Revelation reveals a vision that offers insight into a different side of motherhood. The revelation of satan's anger with the woman for bringing for a male child (who represents Jesus) and her 'seed'. The word 'seed' comes from a Greek word sperma pronounced spe'r-mä that means (a) the product of semen, children, offspring. (b) family tribe, posterity (c) whatever possesses vital force or life giving power. The seed has the ability to produce more fruit, which in turn will have another seed(s) to produce even more. The devil knows that "he has little time " because of the woman's seed "who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." He knows that his fate lies in the remnant seed!
Heavenly Father, you have provided a place for us, even in the wilderness, so that we do not have to endure the face of the serpent. Help us to discern that the enemy will do any and everything he can to distract from praying protection over our seed. There is promise, purpose and power in our children and this is why the devil is at war with us and them. Nevertheless, we rejoice that whom You've called, You've also justified! We know that Jesus has already defeated the devil from the cross and all we have to do is stand. We declare that we've got our war clothes on and we're reporting for duty. Our seed shall go forth and prosper, they shall keep the commandments of God. In Jesus name, Amen!
The twelfth chapter of Revelation reveals a vision that offers insight into a different side of motherhood. The revelation of satan's anger with the woman for bringing for a male child (who represents Jesus) and her 'seed'. The word 'seed' comes from a Greek word sperma pronounced spe'r-mä that means (a) the product of semen, children, offspring. (b) family tribe, posterity (c) whatever possesses vital force or life giving power. The seed has the ability to produce more fruit, which in turn will have another seed(s) to produce even more. The devil knows that "he has little time " because of the woman's seed "who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." He knows that his fate lies in the remnant seed!
Heavenly Father, you have provided a place for us, even in the wilderness, so that we do not have to endure the face of the serpent. Help us to discern that the enemy will do any and everything he can to distract from praying protection over our seed. There is promise, purpose and power in our children and this is why the devil is at war with us and them. Nevertheless, we rejoice that whom You've called, You've also justified! We know that Jesus has already defeated the devil from the cross and all we have to do is stand. We declare that we've got our war clothes on and we're reporting for duty. Our seed shall go forth and prosper, they shall keep the commandments of God. In Jesus name, Amen!
Friday, May 10, 2013
May 11
In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; he saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the Lord is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Fear the Lord, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing. Psalm 34:6-10 (NLT)
My grandfather was a man of few words, but when he did speak it was like E. F. Hutton...everybody listened. His very presence could change the atmosphere of the room. We loved him because of the security, love, strength, wisdom, protection and stability within him. No matter what the situation, we all knew that with that gentle smile, when Paw Paw said, "it'll be alright"...it was already alright!
Just as we have this reverence and refuge in the natural, God wants us to accept the same spiritual from Him. When we fear or reverence the Lord, we should do so with the understanding of who He is and the authority He has. We reverence the Lord because He is holy and faithful and He is not slack concerning His promises. And when we reverence Him, we can cast our cares on Him! He will hear and answer our prayers.
Lord we love and reverence you, because of who you are! There are so many promises and benefits of knowing You for ourselves and recognizing that we have all we need in You. We will put our trust in You and we will lack no good thing...our children will lack no good thing...it's already alright. In Jesus name, Amen!
My grandfather was a man of few words, but when he did speak it was like E. F. Hutton...everybody listened. His very presence could change the atmosphere of the room. We loved him because of the security, love, strength, wisdom, protection and stability within him. No matter what the situation, we all knew that with that gentle smile, when Paw Paw said, "it'll be alright"...it was already alright!
Just as we have this reverence and refuge in the natural, God wants us to accept the same spiritual from Him. When we fear or reverence the Lord, we should do so with the understanding of who He is and the authority He has. We reverence the Lord because He is holy and faithful and He is not slack concerning His promises. And when we reverence Him, we can cast our cares on Him! He will hear and answer our prayers.
Lord we love and reverence you, because of who you are! There are so many promises and benefits of knowing You for ourselves and recognizing that we have all we need in You. We will put our trust in You and we will lack no good thing...our children will lack no good thing...it's already alright. In Jesus name, Amen!
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
May 8 - THIRSTY!!!
Fearing God means having a deeply committed respect, love and reverence for God's authority and power. It means being afraid of what life would be like without Him and being grateful that because of His love we'll never have to experience such despair. It means hungering for all that God is and all that He has for us. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
Those who profess to know God need to examine themselves by asking the following: Do I really possess a strong desire for God and his presence in my life? Or do I go through life largely consumed with secular pursuits and worldly entertainment, while prayer, Bible reading, and a deep hunger and thirst for God and his righteousness have little place or vitality in my life? (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
As we go through life, it's easy to get caught up in life and all of life's distractions. We have our family responsibilities, jobs, ministry, our social media cliques, our fraternities and sororities, etc. etc., but our commitment and focus should be on the author of our faith and giver of life. There is no way I could live without God in my life! His word teaches, guides and directs me, His Spirit counsels, comforts and sustains me!
Psalm 63:1-3 says; "You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. 2 I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. 3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you." In Jesus name, it is so!
Those who profess to know God need to examine themselves by asking the following: Do I really possess a strong desire for God and his presence in my life? Or do I go through life largely consumed with secular pursuits and worldly entertainment, while prayer, Bible reading, and a deep hunger and thirst for God and his righteousness have little place or vitality in my life? (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
As we go through life, it's easy to get caught up in life and all of life's distractions. We have our family responsibilities, jobs, ministry, our social media cliques, our fraternities and sororities, etc. etc., but our commitment and focus should be on the author of our faith and giver of life. There is no way I could live without God in my life! His word teaches, guides and directs me, His Spirit counsels, comforts and sustains me!
Psalm 63:1-3 says; "You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water. 2 I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. 3 Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you." In Jesus name, it is so!
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
May 7
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. 10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 11 Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. 12 Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. Romans 12:9-12 (New Living Translation)
"Hate what is wrong" and "hold tightly to what is good"! It is not enough for God's children to love righteousness; they must also hate evil. In order to be successful in this regard; we must be able to separate the evil from the evil doer. The bible is not telling us to hate anyone, but we should hate evil and sin. Even when Jesus was on the cross; I believe that He hated the evil that was done to him but not necessarily the persons committing the evil.
Our children must know that it is not wrong for them to hate what is wrong. Some of their so-called friends may challenge them for taking a righteous stand against evil, but there is no gray area with evil...you either love it or hate it. James 4:3-5; "...don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God". Hmmm...friends with the world (evil), makes me an enemy of God (who hold the world in His hands); I'll take God for eternity Alex!
Lord, we desire to be righteous and therefore we must hate those things that are contrary to You. Help us recognize the evil, the root, the spirit, the principality that tries to come against us, give us wisdom to discern it and let us utilize Your armor to combat it. We will not allow our children to be deceived or made to feel guilty about hating what is wrong. We choose, this day, whom we shall serve! In Jesus name, Amen!
"Hate what is wrong" and "hold tightly to what is good"! It is not enough for God's children to love righteousness; they must also hate evil. In order to be successful in this regard; we must be able to separate the evil from the evil doer. The bible is not telling us to hate anyone, but we should hate evil and sin. Even when Jesus was on the cross; I believe that He hated the evil that was done to him but not necessarily the persons committing the evil.
Our children must know that it is not wrong for them to hate what is wrong. Some of their so-called friends may challenge them for taking a righteous stand against evil, but there is no gray area with evil...you either love it or hate it. James 4:3-5; "...don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God". Hmmm...friends with the world (evil), makes me an enemy of God (who hold the world in His hands); I'll take God for eternity Alex!
Lord, we desire to be righteous and therefore we must hate those things that are contrary to You. Help us recognize the evil, the root, the spirit, the principality that tries to come against us, give us wisdom to discern it and let us utilize Your armor to combat it. We will not allow our children to be deceived or made to feel guilty about hating what is wrong. We choose, this day, whom we shall serve! In Jesus name, Amen!
Monday, May 6, 2013
May 6 - "My child would never..."
When I worked in the judicial system there were certain 'buzz' words that a judge would use to let you know things were serious. Words like 'recidivism', which means repeated or habitual relapse , as into crime. Often the word recidivism was used to demonstrate the likelihood of an offender to repeat a crime. Unfortunately, by running to defend our children so much, we have set them up for recidivism with sin.
Being a PTO officer at both of my sons schools; I have encountered a few parents that are quick to come to the defense of their child, even without getting the whole story. I understand that as a parent it is important for my child to feel that he/she can come to me with any issue their facing and have confidence that it will be handled to the best of my ability. The challenge comes, when we decide to take the reigns of righteousness, disregard and look down on everyone else involved. When we're combative with everyone else and we don't question our child's responsibility in a matter; we give them the perception that they do not have to be held accountable for what they've done. There are always three sides to every story; yours, mine and the truth!
I thought about a part of scripture that says, "...Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment," because we will often think more highly of our children than we ought. I remember one day when I went to my 8yr old son's school to pick him up and his teacher told me that he used profanity in class. She could hardly tell me what he said because she was laughing so much at the fact that he had used it correctly. Normally I would have been horrified, but he had used the same word the night before at home (I won't say where he got the word from) and I thought I surely had heard him wrong. Now I could have come off in a righteous way and took the "not my child" approach, but instead; his teacher and I talked about it productively and enjoyed a laugh at his directness...still hoping it was just random. *sigh* We have to make sure that we parent our children in a way that encourages them to accept responsibility for their sin so that he/she does not fall into recidivism.
God, Your word says that if our brother sins seven times in a day, we should rebuke him and if he repents, we should forgive him seven times. While we're thankful for forgiveness; we declare that our children will not habitual sinners taking grace for granted. Not my child! In Jesus name, Amen!!
Being a PTO officer at both of my sons schools; I have encountered a few parents that are quick to come to the defense of their child, even without getting the whole story. I understand that as a parent it is important for my child to feel that he/she can come to me with any issue their facing and have confidence that it will be handled to the best of my ability. The challenge comes, when we decide to take the reigns of righteousness, disregard and look down on everyone else involved. When we're combative with everyone else and we don't question our child's responsibility in a matter; we give them the perception that they do not have to be held accountable for what they've done. There are always three sides to every story; yours, mine and the truth!
I thought about a part of scripture that says, "...Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment," because we will often think more highly of our children than we ought. I remember one day when I went to my 8yr old son's school to pick him up and his teacher told me that he used profanity in class. She could hardly tell me what he said because she was laughing so much at the fact that he had used it correctly. Normally I would have been horrified, but he had used the same word the night before at home (I won't say where he got the word from) and I thought I surely had heard him wrong. Now I could have come off in a righteous way and took the "not my child" approach, but instead; his teacher and I talked about it productively and enjoyed a laugh at his directness...still hoping it was just random. *sigh* We have to make sure that we parent our children in a way that encourages them to accept responsibility for their sin so that he/she does not fall into recidivism.
God, Your word says that if our brother sins seven times in a day, we should rebuke him and if he repents, we should forgive him seven times. While we're thankful for forgiveness; we declare that our children will not habitual sinners taking grace for granted. Not my child! In Jesus name, Amen!!
Sunday, May 5, 2013
May 5
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. (Psalm 1:1-3, KJV)
The first verse of the book Psalms emphasizes the distinction between the righteous and the wicked. True believers can be distinguished by the things they do not do, the places they do not go and the company they do not keep. No person can experience God's blessing without turning from those things that are harmful or destructive. (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
The challenging thing about sin is that most of the time, we enjoy the sin in which we indulge. Let's face it...we're not often tempted by broccoli, but chocolate chip cookies can cause us to stumble! That statement works metaphorically too.
Our children need to know that they are called to a higher standard. In the words of Tye Tribbett, they are to 'Stand Out'. A definite way to make sure that our children stand out is for them to turn from things (and people) that are harmful or destructive to them. God's plan is to prosper them, to give them hope and a future...not destruction.
Father, we pray that our children will be able to turn away from the things that are contrary to your plan for their life. We pray that doors are closed to places they should not go...maybe the car won't start, or the party gets canceled or their friend changes their mind; whatever it takes Lord! We're thankful that in addition to the company they keep; there are angels unaware in their midst. You call them blessed and we declare it is so. In Jesus name, Amen!!
The first verse of the book Psalms emphasizes the distinction between the righteous and the wicked. True believers can be distinguished by the things they do not do, the places they do not go and the company they do not keep. No person can experience God's blessing without turning from those things that are harmful or destructive. (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
The challenging thing about sin is that most of the time, we enjoy the sin in which we indulge. Let's face it...we're not often tempted by broccoli, but chocolate chip cookies can cause us to stumble! That statement works metaphorically too.
Our children need to know that they are called to a higher standard. In the words of Tye Tribbett, they are to 'Stand Out'. A definite way to make sure that our children stand out is for them to turn from things (and people) that are harmful or destructive to them. God's plan is to prosper them, to give them hope and a future...not destruction.
Father, we pray that our children will be able to turn away from the things that are contrary to your plan for their life. We pray that doors are closed to places they should not go...maybe the car won't start, or the party gets canceled or their friend changes their mind; whatever it takes Lord! We're thankful that in addition to the company they keep; there are angels unaware in their midst. You call them blessed and we declare it is so. In Jesus name, Amen!!
Saturday, May 4, 2013
May 4 - What's your GPA?
One of the greatest influences in our children's lives will be their friends and role models. How can we not pray about them? (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
A few years ago, Pastor Keith Troy said something to our youth and young adults that I've never forgotten. I can't remember if the occasion was Graduation Sunday or not, but he challenged them to not only consider their GPA (Grade Point Average), but to also be very concerned about their Spiritual GPA (God Peers Academics). It was profound then and it's still profound now!
As believers, we should teach our children about God and model a relationship with Him that they can/will receive. When it's time for them to attend school, we should develop a "team" with their teachers, principal and anyone else involved in the education process. We need to keep the lines of communication open regarding their academic achievement and encourage them throughout their school years. However, when it comes to 'Peers', we can sometimes fall short. We don't always pray for and over who interacts with our children, on their level, and it's absolutely necessary! Even more important is that our children grasp the depth of their Spiritual GPA. While their Academic GPA may be used to rank them in school; their Spiritual GPA will be used to rank them in life.
Father, Your word says that we should seek first "the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." These things are what you already know we have need of and have promised to provide. So Lord, we pray that our children will greatly consider the weight of their Spiritual GPA, keeping Your first always. Let them seek You about their peers...whom they should entertain and whom they should dismiss. Give them what they need to accomplish the academic achievement before them for the purpose You've placed on their lives. What we pray in secret, our Father sees in secret and He shall reward openly. All the glory belongs to You, oh God! In Jesus name, Amen!!!
A few years ago, Pastor Keith Troy said something to our youth and young adults that I've never forgotten. I can't remember if the occasion was Graduation Sunday or not, but he challenged them to not only consider their GPA (Grade Point Average), but to also be very concerned about their Spiritual GPA (God Peers Academics). It was profound then and it's still profound now!
As believers, we should teach our children about God and model a relationship with Him that they can/will receive. When it's time for them to attend school, we should develop a "team" with their teachers, principal and anyone else involved in the education process. We need to keep the lines of communication open regarding their academic achievement and encourage them throughout their school years. However, when it comes to 'Peers', we can sometimes fall short. We don't always pray for and over who interacts with our children, on their level, and it's absolutely necessary! Even more important is that our children grasp the depth of their Spiritual GPA. While their Academic GPA may be used to rank them in school; their Spiritual GPA will be used to rank them in life.
Father, Your word says that we should seek first "the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." These things are what you already know we have need of and have promised to provide. So Lord, we pray that our children will greatly consider the weight of their Spiritual GPA, keeping Your first always. Let them seek You about their peers...whom they should entertain and whom they should dismiss. Give them what they need to accomplish the academic achievement before them for the purpose You've placed on their lives. What we pray in secret, our Father sees in secret and He shall reward openly. All the glory belongs to You, oh God! In Jesus name, Amen!!!
Thursday, May 2, 2013
May 2
God's Word clearly instructs us: "Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness?" (2 Corinthians 6:14) That doesn't mean our children can never have a non believing friend. But there is clear implication that their closest friends, ones to whom they have strong ties, should be believers. (Power of a Praying Parent, Stormie Omartian)
I'm so glad that Ms. Omartian said, "that doesn't mean our children can never have a non believing friend" because occasionally I struggle with 'filtering' friends for my children, especially the younger ones. I mean, who wants to tell their ten year old that he/she can't have a play date with another child because the child's dad smokes weed or because the child's mom cusses like a sailor. What we do as protection, may come off as judgment to our children...and in reality, it's a very thin line between the two.
In verse 14 above, Paul refers to the OT Mosaic law that God gave to His people who were engaged in agriculture. God told the people not to yoke together an oxen and an ass (donkey). One was 'clean' and the other was 'unclean'. I won't even go into the clean and unclean aspect but can you just get a visual of an ox and a donkey, connected at the neck, side by side...my spiritual eye and mind tells me that this 'relationship' is not conducive to harmony and productivity! See link below...
http://revnadinedraytonkeen.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/yoked-donkey-and-ox.jpg
The interesting thing about what Paul says is that he uses being unequally yoked metaphorically because "the apostle is forbidding Christians to have intercourse with idolaters." (Thayer's Greek Lexicon). This reference speaks to intimate, close relationships and strong ties that are not only forbidden, but also extremely challenging between believers and unbelievers. "Therefore believers must not be in voluntary partnership or in intimate association with unbelievers, for such relationships can corrupt their relationship with Christ. This includes partnership in business, secret orders (lodges), dating, marriage and close friendships. A Christian's association with unbelievers should be only such as is necessary for social or economic existence, or to show unbelievers the way of salvation." (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
God we pray right now for the salvation and righteousness of the friends closest to our children. If the friend is a believer, we pray that he/she be strengthened in Christ this very minute so that if/when our child needs to lean on him/her; this dear friend will be able to keep our son/daughter propped up! If the friend is an unbeliever, let our child lift Jesus in a way that will allow the friend to see Christ and be drawn to Him. The day will come when we may not be able to get to our child, but we take peace in knowing that our prayers for them being equally yoked with friends who are believers has been heard. In Jesus name, Amen!
I'm so glad that Ms. Omartian said, "that doesn't mean our children can never have a non believing friend" because occasionally I struggle with 'filtering' friends for my children, especially the younger ones. I mean, who wants to tell their ten year old that he/she can't have a play date with another child because the child's dad smokes weed or because the child's mom cusses like a sailor. What we do as protection, may come off as judgment to our children...and in reality, it's a very thin line between the two.
In verse 14 above, Paul refers to the OT Mosaic law that God gave to His people who were engaged in agriculture. God told the people not to yoke together an oxen and an ass (donkey). One was 'clean' and the other was 'unclean'. I won't even go into the clean and unclean aspect but can you just get a visual of an ox and a donkey, connected at the neck, side by side...my spiritual eye and mind tells me that this 'relationship' is not conducive to harmony and productivity! See link below...
http://revnadinedraytonkeen.files.wordpress.com/2011/09/yoked-donkey-and-ox.jpg
The interesting thing about what Paul says is that he uses being unequally yoked metaphorically because "the apostle is forbidding Christians to have intercourse with idolaters." (Thayer's Greek Lexicon). This reference speaks to intimate, close relationships and strong ties that are not only forbidden, but also extremely challenging between believers and unbelievers. "Therefore believers must not be in voluntary partnership or in intimate association with unbelievers, for such relationships can corrupt their relationship with Christ. This includes partnership in business, secret orders (lodges), dating, marriage and close friendships. A Christian's association with unbelievers should be only such as is necessary for social or economic existence, or to show unbelievers the way of salvation." (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes)
God we pray right now for the salvation and righteousness of the friends closest to our children. If the friend is a believer, we pray that he/she be strengthened in Christ this very minute so that if/when our child needs to lean on him/her; this dear friend will be able to keep our son/daughter propped up! If the friend is an unbeliever, let our child lift Jesus in a way that will allow the friend to see Christ and be drawn to Him. The day will come when we may not be able to get to our child, but we take peace in knowing that our prayers for them being equally yoked with friends who are believers has been heard. In Jesus name, Amen!
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
May 1
For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:16-17 (NIV)
The world and all its enticements are very attractive to our children. If we're open and honest, there are some things that are attractive to us as well. "The greater our weakness and trials for Christ, the more grace God will give to accomplish his will. What he gives is always sufficient for us to live our daily lives, to work for him, and to endure our suffering and thorns in the flesh" (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes).
Getting our children to realize that the desires of the world pass away, but the wages of sin is death, should be a priority. There is a saying that "only what's done for Christ will last" and we need to make sure that our children have this etched in their brains. The real reward lies in doing the will of God...the reward of eternal life.
Dear Lord, we pray that our children will not fret "because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong, for like the grass they will soon wither". They will trust in the Lord and do good; they will delight in You and You will give them the desires of their hearts. We pray that all their ways are committed to You...our children shall do the will of God. In Jesus name, Amen!
The world and all its enticements are very attractive to our children. If we're open and honest, there are some things that are attractive to us as well. "The greater our weakness and trials for Christ, the more grace God will give to accomplish his will. What he gives is always sufficient for us to live our daily lives, to work for him, and to endure our suffering and thorns in the flesh" (Full Life Study Bible, Study Notes).
Getting our children to realize that the desires of the world pass away, but the wages of sin is death, should be a priority. There is a saying that "only what's done for Christ will last" and we need to make sure that our children have this etched in their brains. The real reward lies in doing the will of God...the reward of eternal life.
Dear Lord, we pray that our children will not fret "because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong, for like the grass they will soon wither". They will trust in the Lord and do good; they will delight in You and You will give them the desires of their hearts. We pray that all their ways are committed to You...our children shall do the will of God. In Jesus name, Amen!
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