Just keeping it short and simple I wanted to make a few comments about this weekend.
First of all I want to praise God who according to His infinite wisdom has created a master plan which included the creation of man for the purpose of knowing Him and glorifying Him forever. I thank God for ordaining that I be born into His world and for every good and perfect gift He has graciously allowed me to enjoy over these 36 yrs. (which are also a gift from Him). Though created in the image of God and for His glory because of "The Fall" every man is born an enemy of God, a sinner, a rebel, children of darkness, disobedience, and the devil, and abides under the Righteous, Just, wrath of God against criminals (lawbreakers, sinner, you and I!) However, God, according to the good pleasure of His will and to the praise of the glory of His grace, set forth His Son as a propitiation for my sins. He made Him who knew no sin to become sin for me, he placed my sins on Him and the sins of all His people and God poured out His wrath on His Son, that my sins would be forgiven and I could be declared "Not Guilty"/Justified in His sight and that I would be reconciled to Him. On the 3rd day he rose again for my Justification. He placed the blood on the mercy seat and Heaven and placated the wrath of God. The veil was torn, the access was given, and I have been raised w/ Him to sit in Heavenly places. O I could say so much more about the Glorious Gospel and the Glory of My precious God Jesus Christ. But this is the foundation of what this weekend means to me. So first and foremost I worship my Lord for the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ who died for my sins, according to the scripture, was buried, and rose again the third day.
Secondly, I want to praise God for His grace in our church in that we have a Worship Pastor, a Worship leading choir, Sound men, band, and an abundance of gifted singers for the purpose of making His Praise Glorious. I sincerely give thanks to God for this and do not take it for Granted. Thanks be to God for the garment of praise He has clothed us in and for the worshippers He has developed for His glory. I love worshipping with the family at FBC.
Thirdly, I thank God for all the people I didn't know today. I want all of my friends to know the joy I have as I think of all the people, especially in the second service that I didn't know, but I got to preach the GOSPEL, w/ all my heart, and plead with them this one time. Who knows what God might do. Please pray w/ me for the all the faces you have not seen or do not know that were here and heard the word of God. Pray that God would give the increase, that the word would bring forth fruit in their life, that they would be protected from the tempter, the Holy Spirit would be poured out on them, and they would be born again to the Glory of God. Let it be so, Lord Jesus, in Your name we pray. (Please pray God's will to pass, be a partaker in the work of God, and share in the Thanksgiving that will be offered by many)
I usually know most people, but I was know where close today.
I am very thankful that God graced us with around 460 in attendance.
Yes I am grateful for a great crowd. I love the privilege to minister to masses. It is a wonderful blessing that God allows us this kind of opportunity to share His Gospel and Glory. Lord, give us more.
It was a great day and I thank the Lord for such a blessed day.
Live in the reality of the resurrection!
Heb. 13:20-21
P.S.
I am not proof reading this so it may be rough. Out of time.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Trip to Lifeway
Last night while Nancy and I were having our date night I stopped by "Lifeway" to buy Nancy a new book for her devotional time. By the way, I would encourage husbands who are seeking to disciple your family to provide your wife with resources that you think would be helpful in her spiritual development. Nancy is definitely capable of selecting her own material, but she trusts me as the spiritual leader with suggesting material that I think would be beneficial to her. She told me she wanted to focus on prayer and so I went in for the purpose of finding a couple of good options on prayer. (If your anticipating a great story or testimony right now, stop, because that's not what happened). Rather, what happened is what almost always happens when I go into a Christian bookstore; I go in looking for one thing and come out with a bunch of things. Does anyone else seem to have this problem? I am a sucker for books! I lack self control. I confess! Is it okay to lack self control when it comes to buying Christian material for the feeding of your soul and your spiritual development? (Not that I already have many books from the last visits to the Christian Bookstore or websites that I haven't read yet, that I had to have the last time I justified the investment to the expansion of my personal library.)
So anyway, I did it, I broke down, I came out with more than I went in for and I just wanted to share my new purchases. If you really love reading, new books are like new toys, you want to tell people about them and take them all out...so anyway. Here's what I got.
A.W. Tozer: The Pursuit of Man
A.W. Tozer: The Purpose of Man
Jerry Bridges: "The Discipline of Grace" *Remember that one Brian! Remember the one I bought you that time; that you so enjoyed. (BTW, this will tell me if you are reading my blog posts...I expect a comment)
Francis Chan: Forgotten God (Bela has already snatched...Nancy was a little bitter about this, but I told her I would by her another one.)
Craig Groeschel: The Christian Atheist *I am so excited about this book. I hope I am not let down. I love the title and the subject matter. Caption: Believeing in God but living as If He doesn't Exist.
Philip Yancey: Prayer (Does it really make a difference)
Billy Hybels: Too busy not to pray
Jim Cymbala: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire (I love this book on prayer!)
A new DVD on the story of Ruth (Family Night)
DVD's on the Case for Christ and the Case for Faith (I want the kids to watch these with me)
Bringing your kids to Christ and 20 things I need to tell my wife (2 small books)
So there you have it, a typical trip to Lifeway for me.
BTW...I did achieve my purpose, I did offer Nancy several books on prayer. She has chosen to begin with "The Pursuit of Man" and "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire"
If you have read any of these books and would like to comment I would love to hear what you have to say. I will try to share with you my thoughts about these materials as I go thru them.
Hope your finding time to give attendance to reading and to apply your heart to knowledge and instruction. Prov. 23:23 "Buy the truth, and do not sell it, also wisdom and instruction and understanding."
So anyway, I did it, I broke down, I came out with more than I went in for and I just wanted to share my new purchases. If you really love reading, new books are like new toys, you want to tell people about them and take them all out...so anyway. Here's what I got.
A.W. Tozer: The Pursuit of Man
A.W. Tozer: The Purpose of Man
Jerry Bridges: "The Discipline of Grace" *Remember that one Brian! Remember the one I bought you that time; that you so enjoyed. (BTW, this will tell me if you are reading my blog posts...I expect a comment)
Francis Chan: Forgotten God (Bela has already snatched...Nancy was a little bitter about this, but I told her I would by her another one.)
Craig Groeschel: The Christian Atheist *I am so excited about this book. I hope I am not let down. I love the title and the subject matter. Caption: Believeing in God but living as If He doesn't Exist.
Philip Yancey: Prayer (Does it really make a difference)
Billy Hybels: Too busy not to pray
Jim Cymbala: Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire (I love this book on prayer!)
A new DVD on the story of Ruth (Family Night)
DVD's on the Case for Christ and the Case for Faith (I want the kids to watch these with me)
Bringing your kids to Christ and 20 things I need to tell my wife (2 small books)
So there you have it, a typical trip to Lifeway for me.
BTW...I did achieve my purpose, I did offer Nancy several books on prayer. She has chosen to begin with "The Pursuit of Man" and "Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire"
If you have read any of these books and would like to comment I would love to hear what you have to say. I will try to share with you my thoughts about these materials as I go thru them.
Hope your finding time to give attendance to reading and to apply your heart to knowledge and instruction. Prov. 23:23 "Buy the truth, and do not sell it, also wisdom and instruction and understanding."
Saturday, March 27, 2010
How to fight the battle against sin in our lives
This is a video clip used to provoke thoughts concerning the intense battle we have with indwelling sin.
I have posted below the video a link to the 2 full-length messages preached by John Piper on "How to make war against sin" These messages can be read or listened to on-line. If you are serious about Holiness and victory over sin, or if you need to get serious about a life of holiness then I encourage you to listen to these messages.
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/Sermons/ByDate/2002/
I have posted below the video a link to the 2 full-length messages preached by John Piper on "How to make war against sin" These messages can be read or listened to on-line. If you are serious about Holiness and victory over sin, or if you need to get serious about a life of holiness then I encourage you to listen to these messages.
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/Sermons/ByDate/2002/
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
This message might change your life!
I listened to this message this morning by the grace of God. I pass it along to you because of it's foundational message concerning the Purpose of God for the universe, His church, and especially YOUR LIFE.
This message should change your life. I must admit that in order for it to bring forth its full fruit in my life I must spend more time in meditation, examination, and supplication concerning the truths it contained.
Dear friends, I implore you to set aside all potential for distraction and pray for God to reveal and develop this truth in you for the glory of God.
David Platt: Extravagant Grace, Extravagant Glory: Psalm 67
http://www.chbcaudio.org/audio/2010/03-14-10.mp3
This message should change your life. I must admit that in order for it to bring forth its full fruit in my life I must spend more time in meditation, examination, and supplication concerning the truths it contained.
Dear friends, I implore you to set aside all potential for distraction and pray for God to reveal and develop this truth in you for the glory of God.
David Platt: Extravagant Grace, Extravagant Glory: Psalm 67
http://www.chbcaudio.org/audio/2010/03-14-10.mp3
Monday, March 15, 2010
Lessons from Peter and John on Witnessing
Acts 4:5-22
And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers, elders, and scribes,6 as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked,"By what power or by what name have you done this?" 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders of Israel:9 If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well,10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.11 This is the 'stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.' 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.14 And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,16 saying,"What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.17 But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name." 18 So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.19 But Peter and John answered and said to them,"Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done.22 For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.
NKJV
I want to pull a few thoughts out of this text that I heard in a message last week for your meditation.
What can we learn from Peter and John on how to faithfully proclaim the Gospel?
I. The Empowerment for sharing the Gospel.
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them,
The word of God specifically notes before Peter shares with boldness that there was a significant factor contributing to His ability to share; He was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Jesus told His disciples to tarry in Jerusalem until you are endued with Power from on High.
Acts 1:8 "And you shall receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be my witnesses"
Witnessing is dependent upon the filling and empowering of the Holy Spirit. Are you filled with the Holy Spirit today? Could that be the reason for your inability to share your faith?
Peter certainly struggled to Testify of Christ before he was filled with the Holy Spirit. As a matter of fact he was so weak and afraid in His flesh that He denied that he even knew Him. Let this be a reminder of our need for the filling of the Holy Spirit each moment for the purpose of sharing Christ with the world.
II. The Evidence for Sharing the Gospel.
If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well,10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.
In this passage the healing of a lame man gave evidence to the power of Christ and set the stage for Peter and John to bear witness that Jesus was the Risen Christ.
Question: What evidence is on display in our lives and in our churches today that give us the opportunity to share the testimony of Christ?
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.
The text says that the hearers marveled at the way Peter and John gave witness because they were uneducated and untrained men. Then without knowing the referenced where the source of their testimony came from..."they had been with Jesus"
In this verse we see that it is not instruction that you need to share Jesus with others, but Intimacy.
It is not more education that is necessary for us to be effective in sharing Jesus with others, it is more experience with the Lord Jesus.
This goes all the way back to the invitation Jesus gave some young fishermen on the shore of Galilee.
"Follow ME and I will make you to become fishers of men"
And it came to pass, on the next day, that their rulers, elders, and scribes,6 as well as Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the family of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked,"By what power or by what name have you done this?" 8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers of the people and elders of Israel:9 If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well,10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.11 This is the 'stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.' 12 Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.14 And seeing the man who had been healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,16 saying,"What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.17 But so that it spreads no further among the people, let us severely threaten them, that from now on they speak to no man in this name." 18 So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.19 But Peter and John answered and said to them,"Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge.20 For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard."21 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way of punishing them, because of the people, since they all glorified God for what had been done.22 For the man was over forty years old on whom this miracle of healing had been performed.
NKJV
I want to pull a few thoughts out of this text that I heard in a message last week for your meditation.
What can we learn from Peter and John on how to faithfully proclaim the Gospel?
I. The Empowerment for sharing the Gospel.
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them,
The word of God specifically notes before Peter shares with boldness that there was a significant factor contributing to His ability to share; He was filled with the Holy Spirit.
Jesus told His disciples to tarry in Jerusalem until you are endued with Power from on High.
Acts 1:8 "And you shall receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be my witnesses"
Witnessing is dependent upon the filling and empowering of the Holy Spirit. Are you filled with the Holy Spirit today? Could that be the reason for your inability to share your faith?
Peter certainly struggled to Testify of Christ before he was filled with the Holy Spirit. As a matter of fact he was so weak and afraid in His flesh that He denied that he even knew Him. Let this be a reminder of our need for the filling of the Holy Spirit each moment for the purpose of sharing Christ with the world.
II. The Evidence for Sharing the Gospel.
If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well,10 let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.
In this passage the healing of a lame man gave evidence to the power of Christ and set the stage for Peter and John to bear witness that Jesus was the Risen Christ.
Question: What evidence is on display in our lives and in our churches today that give us the opportunity to share the testimony of Christ?
- The scripture speaks that we give evidence of the power of the Gospel and the risen Christ through the power of God in our lives producing love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodnees, faithfulness, and self-control.
- The scripture teaches that men will see our good works and glorify our Father who is in Heaven. What evidence would be found in your life, in your family, in your church, that would give you an opportunity to let it be known to all, that what you see is the result of the power of Jesus Christ.
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus.
The text says that the hearers marveled at the way Peter and John gave witness because they were uneducated and untrained men. Then without knowing the referenced where the source of their testimony came from..."they had been with Jesus"
In this verse we see that it is not instruction that you need to share Jesus with others, but Intimacy.
It is not more education that is necessary for us to be effective in sharing Jesus with others, it is more experience with the Lord Jesus.
This goes all the way back to the invitation Jesus gave some young fishermen on the shore of Galilee.
"Follow ME and I will make you to become fishers of men"
- Are you filled with the Holy Spirit today? If not, Why? Eph. 5:18 "Be being filled with the Spirit"
- Is there evidence of God at work in your life that will afford you the opportunity to share with others what Jesus has done in your life?
- Do you have a story to tell others because you have been with Jesus? All anyone needs in order to share Jesus is a personal experience that comes from a personal walk with Him.
Worship: The Ultimate Priority #1
Wow! What an incredible day yesterday as we focused out attention and our affections on the worship of our God. I thank God for the preaching and the leadership of Terry Williams Director of the Dept. of Music and Worship for the Florida Baptist Convention. I am thankful for the Grace of God in sharing His word with us that we might learn what His priority is and how we can most effectively accomplish that for His Glory and our Satisfaction. Lastly, I want to thank God for His Mercy and Grace extended toward us thru the Precious Holy Spirit to reveal His Glory to us, to dwell with us, to enable us to come into His presence, by the blood of Jesus, and worship Him. To God be the Glory.
Here are a few things I want to encourage you to ponder as you grow in this grace of worship:
1. Keep the Main thing the Main thing.
What is the main thing?
Mt. 22:37 "Jesus said to him, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all you mind.' This is the FIRST and great commandment"
Luke 10:41 And Jesus answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. BUT ONE things is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which whill not be taken away from her. (v.40 Mary sat at Jesus feet and heard His word)
Rev. 2:2 "I know your works, your labor, ...Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your FIRST love."
There is a Biblical Chronology of Priority: Worship, Walk, Work, in that order.
*Prioritize worshipping God this week by loving Him with your will, your Desires, your emotions, your effections, and your intellect. Sit at His feet, pour out your love, praise, thanksgiving, and sacrifice unto Him.
I Peter 2:5 "you also...a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifics acceptable to God thru our Lord Jesus Christ"
Heb 13:5 "Therefore by Him let us offer the sacrifice of praise continually which is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name."
Ps. 100:1 "Make a joyful shout to the LORD...serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing...enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courst with Praise. Be thankful to Him and bless His name."
Continue in the words which you heard this Sunday until they have brought forth the fruit of worship in your life.
John 4:23 "But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him"
Mark 14:3-9 Mary pours out on the Lord Jesus an alabaster box of oil worth 1 yrs. wages and worshiped Him. The Lord Jesus said she had done a "beautiful" work and that wherever the gospel is preached this shall be a memorial to her. The link between this story and the gospel is she is illustrating the very essence of the Gospel. The Gospel reconciles us unto God that we may sit at His feet, know Him, touch Him, love Him, and worship Him. Is that what the Gospel has done for you?
Accountability:
I want to ask those of you who have time and are able to comment on what steps you have taken to be a worshipper this week. What kind of committment have you made to live a life of worship. I am looking forward to hearing from you, as well as, others who are reading the blog as well.
Here are a few things I want to encourage you to ponder as you grow in this grace of worship:
1. Keep the Main thing the Main thing.
What is the main thing?
Mt. 22:37 "Jesus said to him, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all you mind.' This is the FIRST and great commandment"
Luke 10:41 And Jesus answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. BUT ONE things is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which whill not be taken away from her. (v.40 Mary sat at Jesus feet and heard His word)
Rev. 2:2 "I know your works, your labor, ...Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your FIRST love."
There is a Biblical Chronology of Priority: Worship, Walk, Work, in that order.
*Prioritize worshipping God this week by loving Him with your will, your Desires, your emotions, your effections, and your intellect. Sit at His feet, pour out your love, praise, thanksgiving, and sacrifice unto Him.
I Peter 2:5 "you also...a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifics acceptable to God thru our Lord Jesus Christ"
Heb 13:5 "Therefore by Him let us offer the sacrifice of praise continually which is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name."
Ps. 100:1 "Make a joyful shout to the LORD...serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing...enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courst with Praise. Be thankful to Him and bless His name."
Continue in the words which you heard this Sunday until they have brought forth the fruit of worship in your life.
John 4:23 "But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him"
Mark 14:3-9 Mary pours out on the Lord Jesus an alabaster box of oil worth 1 yrs. wages and worshiped Him. The Lord Jesus said she had done a "beautiful" work and that wherever the gospel is preached this shall be a memorial to her. The link between this story and the gospel is she is illustrating the very essence of the Gospel. The Gospel reconciles us unto God that we may sit at His feet, know Him, touch Him, love Him, and worship Him. Is that what the Gospel has done for you?
Accountability:
I want to ask those of you who have time and are able to comment on what steps you have taken to be a worshipper this week. What kind of committment have you made to live a life of worship. I am looking forward to hearing from you, as well as, others who are reading the blog as well.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Christy Nockels: A Mighty Fortress
I want to make everyone aware of a singer whose music ministers to me and leads me to worship my God. Her name is Christy Nockels if you don't have any of her stuff go check it out.
Here's her Song: "A Mighty Fortress"
Here's her Song: "A Mighty Fortress"
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Building Faith at Home #1
Last Sunday night I shared a visionary message about our committment to building faith at home and how multigenerational faith is formed best within the structure of the family. This concept has been abandoned to a large degree as the church has taken a much larger role in the spiritual formation of our children. I believe the church is a great instrument in the evangelization and discipleship of our children and students, but I do not believe the church is the primary instrument; that is reserved for parents and grandparents. This uncharted territory for many of our families may seem overwhelming or even hopeless. I encourage you to take heart. This is a principle we are committing to for the long haul and over the next few months we are going to continually provide training and assistance for our families as we embark on this journey of building faith at home. One of the tools that I will use is making resources available thru the blog. Please check back regularly for continued instruction, motivation, and innovation. In the video I've posted below you will find simple, yet practical, methods for passing your faith along. Keep me informed of your progress!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Sermon Prep or worship
Yesterday was one of those days where everything was a struggle.
I woke up at 5:15, came over to the church, started the coffee, and got ready to start my day in God's Word, Prayer, and worshipping in His presence.
My first obstacle was my mind was running everywhere thinking about all the things that had to be done that day. I tried to read a chapter in the book I am reading on Loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength(Primal by Mark Batterson), but I really struggled with focus.
My second obstacle was "Fatigue"! Man, I was sooo sleepy yesterday morning. This really affects your ability to comprehend as you read, as well as, to pray with fervency. This was definitely one of those morning where I could fall asleep praying. So, I tried singing, I tried walking (too cold), I tried it all, but to no avail. Finally, I went home at 7:00 to get the kids up for school having not really gotten into God's word, or having "really" prayed or worshipped. I did my best, but I was starting to feel discouraged and overwhelmed; I really needed that window to count because Wed. is sermon prep day.
So, I get back into the office, and if any of you can identify with this, once you get in the office, it's hard to have "Quiet Time". E-mails, Phone calls, projects, etc...but I continue to strive to just spend time with God because I know that without Him I can do nothing. If anything of eternal value is to happen tonight at church it will be thru prayer and not my ability to prepare a sermon and speak.
Before I know it I've just concluded a 43 min. conversation with Randall over ministry issues and margin for sermon prep time is now slim to none; but I still just want to meet with God not prepare a sermon. Do you ever have moments like this? Where you really battle between do I go ahead and do what needs to be done or do I clear the schedule and just spend time with God? I tend to have these fairly often. I guess I'm just a pretty strong believer on everything flows out of the time you spend at His feet, the time you spend pursuing the Vine, and that when you keep this the priority God seems to add to you everything else. (I do want to insert here that I am not legalistic about the blessings of God and I know that God blesses many times in spite of us, and that his blessings are of Grace. But Grace also flows thru Divinely ordained means).
So, I made my decision, I don't care about preparing the message, I will trust God for that, I NEED GOD! So, I think about all the resources available to stir my heart with the word of God and I'm looking for something specific now. Something you need to learn when choosing reading or listening material is that there are certain writers, speakers, and books of the Bible that focus on specific needs. My need wasn't so much doctrinal, ecclesiological, instructional, as I needed something worshipful. The Glory of God! I remembered KP telling me about a message he had listened to by David Platt (whom I had never listened to) about "where the Glory dwells". That sounded like just what I wanted to hear. Over the next 59 minutes I listened to God's word and it changed my day. It stirred my soul. It was the greatest thing that happened to me the entire day! Those thoughts changed my heart toward God, they overflowed into my worship at church last night, and they continue to renew my mind today. Sermon Prep would not have done that; only sitting at His feet. There is a great lesson to be learned in the difference between ministering for Him and ministering to Him. My heart this morning is to share with you the lesson in my life of when to work for Him and when to worship before Him.
May God bless you as you worship.
Here is the link to the message I listened to by David Platt.
http://www.brookhills.org/audio/276/CHRONICLE-PART1-6_AUD.mp3
I woke up at 5:15, came over to the church, started the coffee, and got ready to start my day in God's Word, Prayer, and worshipping in His presence.
My first obstacle was my mind was running everywhere thinking about all the things that had to be done that day. I tried to read a chapter in the book I am reading on Loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength(Primal by Mark Batterson), but I really struggled with focus.
My second obstacle was "Fatigue"! Man, I was sooo sleepy yesterday morning. This really affects your ability to comprehend as you read, as well as, to pray with fervency. This was definitely one of those morning where I could fall asleep praying. So, I tried singing, I tried walking (too cold), I tried it all, but to no avail. Finally, I went home at 7:00 to get the kids up for school having not really gotten into God's word, or having "really" prayed or worshipped. I did my best, but I was starting to feel discouraged and overwhelmed; I really needed that window to count because Wed. is sermon prep day.
So, I get back into the office, and if any of you can identify with this, once you get in the office, it's hard to have "Quiet Time". E-mails, Phone calls, projects, etc...but I continue to strive to just spend time with God because I know that without Him I can do nothing. If anything of eternal value is to happen tonight at church it will be thru prayer and not my ability to prepare a sermon and speak.
Before I know it I've just concluded a 43 min. conversation with Randall over ministry issues and margin for sermon prep time is now slim to none; but I still just want to meet with God not prepare a sermon. Do you ever have moments like this? Where you really battle between do I go ahead and do what needs to be done or do I clear the schedule and just spend time with God? I tend to have these fairly often. I guess I'm just a pretty strong believer on everything flows out of the time you spend at His feet, the time you spend pursuing the Vine, and that when you keep this the priority God seems to add to you everything else. (I do want to insert here that I am not legalistic about the blessings of God and I know that God blesses many times in spite of us, and that his blessings are of Grace. But Grace also flows thru Divinely ordained means).
So, I made my decision, I don't care about preparing the message, I will trust God for that, I NEED GOD! So, I think about all the resources available to stir my heart with the word of God and I'm looking for something specific now. Something you need to learn when choosing reading or listening material is that there are certain writers, speakers, and books of the Bible that focus on specific needs. My need wasn't so much doctrinal, ecclesiological, instructional, as I needed something worshipful. The Glory of God! I remembered KP telling me about a message he had listened to by David Platt (whom I had never listened to) about "where the Glory dwells". That sounded like just what I wanted to hear. Over the next 59 minutes I listened to God's word and it changed my day. It stirred my soul. It was the greatest thing that happened to me the entire day! Those thoughts changed my heart toward God, they overflowed into my worship at church last night, and they continue to renew my mind today. Sermon Prep would not have done that; only sitting at His feet. There is a great lesson to be learned in the difference between ministering for Him and ministering to Him. My heart this morning is to share with you the lesson in my life of when to work for Him and when to worship before Him.
May God bless you as you worship.
Here is the link to the message I listened to by David Platt.
http://www.brookhills.org/audio/276/CHRONICLE-PART1-6_AUD.mp3
Monday, March 1, 2010
Ramblings
Too tired to post a devotion so I thought I would just share some thoughts.
Started reading "Primal" this morning. It is the new Book by Mark Batterson Author of "Wild Goose Chase" and "In a pit with a lion on a Snowy day" The emphasis is on taking Christianity back to its simplest form. "Love the LORD your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength"
Do we overcomplicate it sometimes? Do we get wrapped up sometimes doing so much for Him instead of just being with Him. I know I do.
I listed a quote on Twitter today that kind of summed up what God spoke to me about today.
Mark Batterson wrote "I've discovered when I've lost my way spiritually, the way forward is often backward"
Can you look back on your walk with God and remember special seasons of Love for God.
I wrote down some things today.
I remember lights off, two candles burning, and a radio playing worship songs as I was at total peace in the presence of my God and Christianity was at it's primal stage. Loving God with all my heart.
I remember waking up one of the first Easter mornings after becoming a Christian and driving down to the boat ramp and sitting at the waters edge shouting praises to the God of Creation and the Savior of my soul.
I thought back on the times where our worship Pastor and my cousin Garrett would go in the sanctuary and get in the presence of God and worship and pray with all our might. We would call out on God, we would pray over one another, we would walk the aisles and pray, we would pray over the choir loft, and just get lost in the presence of God, and that was Christianity.
There are many more situations that I could write of, but the point is, this is Christianity in its primal form and I don't ever want to get away from just being in Love with the God who is in love with me.
I love you Father. I love you Jesus. I love you Holy Spirit.
You are my Glory and Song. You are my joy; my delight.
You are my Dearly Beloved and I worship you.
Started reading "Primal" this morning. It is the new Book by Mark Batterson Author of "Wild Goose Chase" and "In a pit with a lion on a Snowy day" The emphasis is on taking Christianity back to its simplest form. "Love the LORD your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength"
Do we overcomplicate it sometimes? Do we get wrapped up sometimes doing so much for Him instead of just being with Him. I know I do.
I listed a quote on Twitter today that kind of summed up what God spoke to me about today.
Mark Batterson wrote "I've discovered when I've lost my way spiritually, the way forward is often backward"
Can you look back on your walk with God and remember special seasons of Love for God.
I wrote down some things today.
I remember lights off, two candles burning, and a radio playing worship songs as I was at total peace in the presence of my God and Christianity was at it's primal stage. Loving God with all my heart.
I remember waking up one of the first Easter mornings after becoming a Christian and driving down to the boat ramp and sitting at the waters edge shouting praises to the God of Creation and the Savior of my soul.
I thought back on the times where our worship Pastor and my cousin Garrett would go in the sanctuary and get in the presence of God and worship and pray with all our might. We would call out on God, we would pray over one another, we would walk the aisles and pray, we would pray over the choir loft, and just get lost in the presence of God, and that was Christianity.
There are many more situations that I could write of, but the point is, this is Christianity in its primal form and I don't ever want to get away from just being in Love with the God who is in love with me.
I love you Father. I love you Jesus. I love you Holy Spirit.
You are my Glory and Song. You are my joy; my delight.
You are my Dearly Beloved and I worship you.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Amazing Truth
Do not rush thru this!
Heb 8:1-2
Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
NKJV
The Book of Hebrews is a declaration of the Supremacy of Christ in all things.
He is better than the Prophets, Angels, Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and much more is identified in the letter.
In our context He is demonstrating the Supremacy of the Priesthood of Christ over the Aaronic Priesthood. There is much that I could say about the far exceeding greatness of His priesthood (you can get that info. thru the Hebrews sermon series available on our website), but I want to glory in one stated in our verse above.
The Writer(believed to be Paul) goes back to his main point in this section on the Supremacy of the Priesthood of Christ and He tells them that they(Believers in Palestine) now have a Great High Priest who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the Heavens. What Priest had they ever known from Aaron's seed that could sit down in the Heavenly Sanctuary and specifically at the Right Hand of the Throne! If a sinful priest had tried to do that they would have been killed on the spot. They couldn't even go into the Holiest of All in the tabernacle on earth without offering blood for their ownselves and even then they had to hope the sacrifice would be acceptable and they would not die in the presence of God. But This Priest, after the order of Melchizedek, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins sat down forever at the right hand of God.
Which priest, which Mediator, would you choose? One who has to offer sins for himself, one who has to offer sacrifices over and over again, one whose work was never done, or one whose work is finished and is approved of Jehovah to sit at His right hand. I choose that Priest! Everytime...with Joy...I choose Jesus by the Grace of God. (Which was His exhortation and point) BUT WAIT! There's more.
I asked the question who in the world have you ever known who could sit down at the right hand of the throne of Majesty in the heavens? Nobody, right? Nobody but Jesus! Look again. The New Testament says that you and I are sitting at the right hand of the throne of God in Christ.
Eph 2:4-7 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, NKJV
Eph 1:3-4 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ," NKJV
Col 3:1-4 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.
Listen, We are in Him, and He is where? Seated at the right hand of the Throne of God.
That's where we are seated and accepted by God thru Him. Hard to believe?
Check this out...
Rev. 1:4 To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. NKJV
1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, NKJV
The scripture declares that you and I are priests. We are allowed access to God to offer sacrifices (Heb. 13:15; I Peter 2:5)
However, we are not only priests (which is amazing in itself) we are called a Royal Priesthood, we are said to be Kings and Priests. We are Kings and Priests because we sit at the Right hand of the throne of the Majesty on High in the King of Kings. This is the Truth! This is what makes Grace so Amazing and the Gospel so Glorious!
But that's not all...Right now this is our Position and we abide their by faith...But one day faith will become sight and Position will become Practice. Here it is described.
Rev 3:21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. NKJV
One day we shall sit with the Master in the Heavens at the Right hand of God, to the praise of the glory of His grace, with the greatest Joy any world has ever known, and we shall sing a new song, Worthy! Worthy! Worthy! is the Lamb that was Slain who has redeemed us out of every kindred, tongue, and nation. Amen and Amen.
Heb 8:1-2
Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
NKJV
The Book of Hebrews is a declaration of the Supremacy of Christ in all things.
He is better than the Prophets, Angels, Moses, Joshua, Aaron, and much more is identified in the letter.
In our context He is demonstrating the Supremacy of the Priesthood of Christ over the Aaronic Priesthood. There is much that I could say about the far exceeding greatness of His priesthood (you can get that info. thru the Hebrews sermon series available on our website), but I want to glory in one stated in our verse above.
The Writer(believed to be Paul) goes back to his main point in this section on the Supremacy of the Priesthood of Christ and He tells them that they(Believers in Palestine) now have a Great High Priest who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the Heavens. What Priest had they ever known from Aaron's seed that could sit down in the Heavenly Sanctuary and specifically at the Right Hand of the Throne! If a sinful priest had tried to do that they would have been killed on the spot. They couldn't even go into the Holiest of All in the tabernacle on earth without offering blood for their ownselves and even then they had to hope the sacrifice would be acceptable and they would not die in the presence of God. But This Priest, after the order of Melchizedek, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins sat down forever at the right hand of God.
Which priest, which Mediator, would you choose? One who has to offer sins for himself, one who has to offer sacrifices over and over again, one whose work was never done, or one whose work is finished and is approved of Jehovah to sit at His right hand. I choose that Priest! Everytime...with Joy...I choose Jesus by the Grace of God. (Which was His exhortation and point) BUT WAIT! There's more.
I asked the question who in the world have you ever known who could sit down at the right hand of the throne of Majesty in the heavens? Nobody, right? Nobody but Jesus! Look again. The New Testament says that you and I are sitting at the right hand of the throne of God in Christ.
Eph 2:4-7 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, NKJV
Eph 1:3-4 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ," NKJV
Col 3:1-4 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.
Listen, We are in Him, and He is where? Seated at the right hand of the Throne of God.
That's where we are seated and accepted by God thru Him. Hard to believe?
Check this out...
Rev. 1:4 To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood,6 and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. NKJV
1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, NKJV
The scripture declares that you and I are priests. We are allowed access to God to offer sacrifices (Heb. 13:15; I Peter 2:5)
However, we are not only priests (which is amazing in itself) we are called a Royal Priesthood, we are said to be Kings and Priests. We are Kings and Priests because we sit at the Right hand of the throne of the Majesty on High in the King of Kings. This is the Truth! This is what makes Grace so Amazing and the Gospel so Glorious!
But that's not all...Right now this is our Position and we abide their by faith...But one day faith will become sight and Position will become Practice. Here it is described.
Rev 3:21 To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne. NKJV
One day we shall sit with the Master in the Heavens at the Right hand of God, to the praise of the glory of His grace, with the greatest Joy any world has ever known, and we shall sing a new song, Worthy! Worthy! Worthy! is the Lamb that was Slain who has redeemed us out of every kindred, tongue, and nation. Amen and Amen.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
God is in control
Luke 22:7-12
Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed.8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat."
9 So they said to Him, "Where do You want us to prepare?"
10 And He said to them, "Behold, when you have entered the city, a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him into the house which he enters.11 Then you shall say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says to you, "Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?"'12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready." NKJV
I was listening to a message yesterday and was really blessed by the glimpse of Sovereignty revealed in this passage.
In this passage Jesus sends Peter and John ahead to prepare for the Passover Meal; (what would become known as "The Last Supper" Jesus would share with His disciples.)
He tells Peter and John that when they come to the city a man will meet them carrying a pitcher of water. He then tells them to Follow him into the house, find the master of the house, tell him "The Teacher" asks for the Guest room, and there prepare the supper.
Additional Note: Why didn't Jesus just tell Peter and John where the house was since he already knew? Perhaps because Judas Iscariot was with them and this would have enabled him to betray Jesus, and the Soldiers/Chief Priests would have sought to arrest Him before the appointed time. Therefore Jesus knowing this ordained that things should be done in this way though it may have been confusing to Peter and John.
So, Jesus sends Peter and John to do something and He is absolutely in control of everything. He knows who they need to run into, where they need to go, and why it needs to happen in this specific way.
The lesson in this passage is that when God asks you to do something, when God sends you on a mission, or when God sends you thru something; He may not tell you why He's doing what He's doing, but you can be absolutely sure that He is working all things according to the good pleasure of His will, according to His Father's perfect timing, and out in your future he knows every person you need to meet and every resource you need provided.
O that God would reveal to each of us that He is just as in control of our lives today and how they relate to His plans and purposes as He was in the lives of Peter and John.
Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed.8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat."
9 So they said to Him, "Where do You want us to prepare?"
10 And He said to them, "Behold, when you have entered the city, a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him into the house which he enters.11 Then you shall say to the master of the house, 'The Teacher says to you, "Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?"'12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready." NKJV
I was listening to a message yesterday and was really blessed by the glimpse of Sovereignty revealed in this passage.
In this passage Jesus sends Peter and John ahead to prepare for the Passover Meal; (what would become known as "The Last Supper" Jesus would share with His disciples.)
He tells Peter and John that when they come to the city a man will meet them carrying a pitcher of water. He then tells them to Follow him into the house, find the master of the house, tell him "The Teacher" asks for the Guest room, and there prepare the supper.
Additional Note: Why didn't Jesus just tell Peter and John where the house was since he already knew? Perhaps because Judas Iscariot was with them and this would have enabled him to betray Jesus, and the Soldiers/Chief Priests would have sought to arrest Him before the appointed time. Therefore Jesus knowing this ordained that things should be done in this way though it may have been confusing to Peter and John.
So, Jesus sends Peter and John to do something and He is absolutely in control of everything. He knows who they need to run into, where they need to go, and why it needs to happen in this specific way.
The lesson in this passage is that when God asks you to do something, when God sends you on a mission, or when God sends you thru something; He may not tell you why He's doing what He's doing, but you can be absolutely sure that He is working all things according to the good pleasure of His will, according to His Father's perfect timing, and out in your future he knows every person you need to meet and every resource you need provided.
O that God would reveal to each of us that He is just as in control of our lives today and how they relate to His plans and purposes as He was in the lives of Peter and John.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Why was Jesus Baptized?
As we are studying thru the Gospel of Mark on Sunday morning we have come to the Baptism of Jesus. This is a very important event in the life and ministry of Jesus and there are many significant aspects of this account. But one of the most difficult questions to answer is: "Why did Jesus need to be baptized?" If John's baptism was a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins (Mk. 1:4) and Jesus had no sin (2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; 1 Peter 3:18) then why did He have to be baptized.
Matt 3:13-15 (provides us with a little further insight.)
"Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?"15 But Jesus answered and said to him, "Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed Him. " NKJV
Jesus said His baptism was necessary "to fulfill all righteousness"; to do everything that was right according to God and His Word.
Here are the answers that I would give you and I certainly welcome any other answers or insights that you may have.
1. John's Baptism was a commandment from God and Jesus as a man was to live in perfect obedience to God's law and though he had no sin of his own He was in absolute obedience to God's law.
2. I believe the baptism of Jesus is symbolic of His work on the cross. In being baptized he is identifying with the sinners for whom He will die. He is not baptized for his own sins, He will not die for His own sins, but for the sinners with whom he has come to identify with. He will then rise from the depths of the dead and bring salvation to all who believe. I believe this work of salvation is symbolized in Jesus Baptism.
3. There is one other thought or answer that is given and that is that Jesus was baptized because He had to fulfill the legal requirements for entering into the priesthood. For further explanation
of this answer please click on the link below.
www.carm.org/questions/why-was-jesus-baptized
Matt 3:13-15 (provides us with a little further insight.)
"Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.14 And John tried to prevent Him, saying, "I need to be baptized by You, and are You coming to me?"15 But Jesus answered and said to him, "Permit it to be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he allowed Him. " NKJV
Jesus said His baptism was necessary "to fulfill all righteousness"; to do everything that was right according to God and His Word.
Here are the answers that I would give you and I certainly welcome any other answers or insights that you may have.
1. John's Baptism was a commandment from God and Jesus as a man was to live in perfect obedience to God's law and though he had no sin of his own He was in absolute obedience to God's law.
2. I believe the baptism of Jesus is symbolic of His work on the cross. In being baptized he is identifying with the sinners for whom He will die. He is not baptized for his own sins, He will not die for His own sins, but for the sinners with whom he has come to identify with. He will then rise from the depths of the dead and bring salvation to all who believe. I believe this work of salvation is symbolized in Jesus Baptism.
3. There is one other thought or answer that is given and that is that Jesus was baptized because He had to fulfill the legal requirements for entering into the priesthood. For further explanation
of this answer please click on the link below.
www.carm.org/questions/why-was-jesus-baptized
How to pray when you're tired
Have any of you discovered the obstacle of fatigue in your prayer life? For example, It's 10:00 p.m., the day is over, the kids are in bed, the house is clean, and you sense a need to spend 1/2 hour in communion with the Father before you go to bed. However, the spirit is willing, but the flesh indeed is weak. You are so tired all you want to do is go to sleep and even if you did try to pray your mind wanders or you drift off while you're praying. This also applies to our morning prayers as well. To those of you who do not get enough sleep at night, or you are not a morning person, drowsiness and fatigue, hinder your prayer life and bring a burden of guilt because of the deficiency in your prayer life. I can identify with all of these feelings and more. I want to share with you just a few simple things that I have learned to do to overcome the obstacle of fatigue in prayer.
1. Walk and pray- One of the best things to do when you know you are tired or distracted in your prayer time is to have a prayer walk. You can either go outside or simply pace back in forth in your room, but remaining active will keep you alert and enable you to spend that much needed time in prayer.
2. Sing and pray- This is a really helpful tool for me. Singing is helpful in several ways.
Singing renews our mind to the Glory of God and His Grace. These truths excite our inner man and this joy of the Lord is Strength in which we need for prayer.
I believe when we sing and praise the Lord in faith that the armies of heaven are released and God's presence comes to us and we are renewed for the battle. This is illustrated throughout the O.T. (II Chr. 20) and The N.T. (Acts 16)
Lastly, when we sing we create adrenaline and our bodies begin to break through the wall of fatigue and we produce the energy needed physically to pray fervently.
*Sometimes I have to take a prayer drive to do this.
3. Write your prayers- Sometimes the only way for me to press thru distractions and fatigue is to pray verbally with passion and fervency. However, my circumstances do not always allow me to do that. You may be in an office environment, perhaps someone is asleep in the other room, whatever it may be. Therefore, I encourage you to write your prayers. You can be as fervent as you want and it will help you to stay focused as you pray.
4. Prayer Partner- There are times when you need to call someone to meet you for prayer because you simply will not pray unless you have this form of accountability. Do not feel guilty for having to do this. I can't explain our weakness but sometimes just having someone there praying with you is all you need to be devoted to prayer. Eccl. 4:9-10 "Two are better than one, for it the one shall fall the other shall lift him up"
These are just some of the tools I have learned to battle the enemy of fatigue and the weakness of the flesh.
If you find these suggestions helpful or if you have some methods that you have found useful in being devoted to prayer, please share those in the comment section.
Pray On!
1. Walk and pray- One of the best things to do when you know you are tired or distracted in your prayer time is to have a prayer walk. You can either go outside or simply pace back in forth in your room, but remaining active will keep you alert and enable you to spend that much needed time in prayer.
2. Sing and pray- This is a really helpful tool for me. Singing is helpful in several ways.
Singing renews our mind to the Glory of God and His Grace. These truths excite our inner man and this joy of the Lord is Strength in which we need for prayer.
I believe when we sing and praise the Lord in faith that the armies of heaven are released and God's presence comes to us and we are renewed for the battle. This is illustrated throughout the O.T. (II Chr. 20) and The N.T. (Acts 16)
Lastly, when we sing we create adrenaline and our bodies begin to break through the wall of fatigue and we produce the energy needed physically to pray fervently.
*Sometimes I have to take a prayer drive to do this.
3. Write your prayers- Sometimes the only way for me to press thru distractions and fatigue is to pray verbally with passion and fervency. However, my circumstances do not always allow me to do that. You may be in an office environment, perhaps someone is asleep in the other room, whatever it may be. Therefore, I encourage you to write your prayers. You can be as fervent as you want and it will help you to stay focused as you pray.
4. Prayer Partner- There are times when you need to call someone to meet you for prayer because you simply will not pray unless you have this form of accountability. Do not feel guilty for having to do this. I can't explain our weakness but sometimes just having someone there praying with you is all you need to be devoted to prayer. Eccl. 4:9-10 "Two are better than one, for it the one shall fall the other shall lift him up"
These are just some of the tools I have learned to battle the enemy of fatigue and the weakness of the flesh.
If you find these suggestions helpful or if you have some methods that you have found useful in being devoted to prayer, please share those in the comment section.
Pray On!
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