Needing to Pray

Needing to Pray

I've been asking the Lord, "Give me words to say that encourage". I have several topics I could probably write about, but instead, I will offer this prayer. It is both personal and intercessory. If you are inclined, please join with me and pray as well. Leave a prayer in the comments, or leave a prayer request. Please know that our faith is in The I Am, The Eternal Almighty God. There was a time when I was ignorant and blind to him, but through the power of the gospel of Jesus Christ, my eyes see clearly now. He is Deliverer, Healer, Comforter, Forgiver, and words which can only describe the smallest aspect of His invisible attributes.

Lord God,

You who are high above the heavens, live within our hearts by the grace of your Holy Spirit. You see us, our lives, our struggles, our pain, and our sorrows; you are not ignorant to any aspect of of our life. You know everything about me, and yet you grace me with your eternal love. I want to ask you to hear this prayer, but Father, I already know you have. I am not wavering in my prayer, I am confident that in my spirit I may come boldly before the throne of grace and find mercy in the time of need; that time is now Lord God. You see what no other eyes can see. You hear what no other ears would listen to. You speak what no other mouth can say.

Look now on those who are sick and need a comforting word of healing. You are able to touch with a thought, word, your Spirit, your loving grace. I don't question Why Lord because I trust in your wisdom. I believe that you are perfecting the lives of your children in ways which are too far beyond comprehension for our limited understanding. You prepare us, strengthen our resolve, give us courage to hold on. When others turn and run, you say, "Stand". Not because we are towers of strength, but because you want to be mighty through us. You choose us for the tasks we face, not by accident, but by your divine purpose. You designed us to reflect you. So we pray Lord God asking you to stretch forth your hand, touch and heal this body overcome with disease, confirm to your child that your grace is sufficient for the task at hand. We will not be fearful, trembling that you are not I AM. We know you are able, but even if we must go through this trial, that burns with a consuming, intense fire, we will not yield our faith in your risen Son, Jesus Christ.

So many suffer from unemployment, yet somehow, your grace continues to flow. We awake by your grace to see another day. We don't know how to make it through, but somehow, you provide grace in our time of need. We need you Lord! Help us Lord to launch creative ideas that capture our passionate treasured thoughts. Inspire us to see doors which we never imagined would open. Some have talents beyond our current status, we are capable of doing so much more. Help us channel our energy and efforts in ways that bless and encourage others. We humble ourselves before you and declare that we are able to do what you say we can do. Do I fear success Lord? Is victory beyond my reach? Are the obstacles too difficult to overcome? No Lord! You have made us conquerors!! No Lord, you have made us more than conquerors through the blood of your Son, Jesus Christ!

Look on our families, our husband, wife, children, children's children, mother, father, sister, brother, aunt, uncle, cousin, and friend. Watch over their life with your loving hand of grace. Lead and guide them in ways I never could. Use me to love them as I ought, as I desire, as you would love them. Help me to be an example of Christ on earth, someone who overcomes evil with good, someone ready, willing and able to pick up my cross daily and carry it with an appreciation and joy that can only come from you. I know I cannot do this on my own, but by your grace, I can persevere. I may be worn and tattered, my life may not glimmer as gold, but there is a light which illuminates my life that is incomparable! It is the light of salvation, the light of hope, the light of Christ.

Watch over and protect the borders of our land from dangers and conflicts. There may be efforts to undermine and create fear and chaos, but I ask you to allow your peace to rule and abide. Guide our political leaders to serve as leaders, to govern not on the basis of political affiliation or favored status, but guide them to be courageous leaders that inspire each of us to be citizens honored to be filled with patriotism. Watch over the lives of those who serve in our military, law enforcement and judiciary. Help them serve not simply with pride, but with honor. Confound the actions and plans of criminals, who would do harm within our borders. Protect the lives of the innocent.

How can I pray with being thankful Lord? What is my prayer without thanksgiving? I'm not talking about a solitary day in November. You know that the appreciation in my heart for who you are, what you mean extends so far beyond the memory of one day. No Lord, I woke up today grateful for your love and grace, thankful for the truth of your word. So I will say, "Bless the name of the Lord, because he is holy, good, right, loving, truthful and gracious!" Thank you Lord God for hearing our prayer, in the name of your most holy Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

MTJ

A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say Thank you, to each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your busy schedule to read a post on this blog encourages me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment, but it really doesn't matter whether a comment is left. What matters, is that you came here. I hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Christ in your life which illuminates the way for us all.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

What Will You Do?

What will you do?

"All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, “If only we had died in Egypt! Or in this wilderness!" (Numbers 14:2, NIV)

As I read through the Old Testament, I am always struck by the lack of faith the Israelites failed to demonstrate despite the miracles God demonstrated in their lives as they wandered through the desert for forty years. I find myself asking the question (again and again): How could they not trust the God who delivered them from slavery? What was it that robbed them of faithfully trusting God’s promises, miracles and commands? The obvious answer is that they lacked faith in God. They never determined to trust in the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. How does their life (God’s chosen people Israel) contrast with the lives of Christians today? God delivered them with miracles, signs and wonders from Egyptian slavery, parted the Red Sea and enabled them to walk through it on dry land, fed them with manna from heaven, and quenched their thirst with water from a rock. Still, they didn’t trust this same God who said He gave to them a land flowing with milk and honey. They were afraid of the inhabitants who occupied the land. They constantly said they were better off in Egypt. In America, Christians go to church on Sunday where they are reminded of the grace, mercy and love God has for them. Regardless of the level of their spiritual maturity, their motivation, traditions or habits, Christians gather together in the presence of Almighty God. When we exit the doors of our local churches, what becomes of our attitudes toward God, toward fellow Christians, toward others not part of our church? The Old Testament Jews were not gifted with the Holy Spirit in their life as New Testament Christian believers. Christians don’t require signs and wonders to know God is faithful to His promises. Christians are told that we are all sinners, that there is none righteous, not even one. Christians know that no one can stand before the presence of God on their own merit and be justified. It takes the redemptive work of Jesus Christ to justify anyone before the judgment of God. So Christians have no reason to grumble, complain, quarrel, or lack true faith! I am grieved when I hear Christians complain. I am just as grieved when I hear some of the words that have been uttered from my lips. Despite my grief, it cannot compare to the sadness our words produce when they echo in the heavens before God. When I look back at my life, I can clearly see how it was the grace of God which carried me through each and every trial I faced. When I hear the words, Jehovah-Jireh, I know God is my provider. God provides! I know that the grace of God carries me throughout the days of my life, so while I am tempted to complain and grumble, I must refrain. I have determined to trust the outcome of my day to the providence of God’s amazing grace. When I hear others speak of how good they had it before, I won’t complain. When I hear others speak of how terrible the United States is, I won’t complain. When others rail against political leaders, I won’t complain. When religious leaders are exposed for immoral conduct, I won’t complain. I will pray. I will remember that I am not worthy of the many blessings God has showered in my life. I will remember that God has been merciful to me when by all accounts, I deserved no mercy. I will remember that God loved me when I myself did not love Him. I will thank God for His infinite love which He gives to all. I will pray. God said, “This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” (Hebrews 10:16, NIV) I will embrace the covenant of God because He has written His words in my heart. I will remember the word of God says, “For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:20, NASB) My life is not my own, I belong to God. Because of this I am not conforming to this world I live in, I am being transformed as God has said, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2, NASB) I will pray that each day, my life is being transformed into a truer reflection of Jesus Christ. My thoughts, words, behavior and life reflect Jesus not the man I once was. What will you do today? MTJ

A Note of Thanks: I would just like to say that I appreciate each of you who visit My Thought-filled Journey. Taking time out of your schedule to read a post on this blog is encouraging to me. Many of those who visit, will from time to time leave a comment. Whether a comment is left is not important. What is important, is that you came. I do hope you find encouragement and inspiration in these words. Please know I will pray with you regarding any circumstance you may be facing. Feel free to write me to say "Hello", request prayer, or share what God is doing in your life. I have not said it enough, but thank you for the light of Christ in your life which illuminates the way for us all.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

A Good Life (Part 3)

Note: In this third and final installment of my short story, we find the main character Katherine, faced with the fears and doubts many of us have faced, are facing or will face in our lives. We may feel a sense of powerlessness and desperation. We may feel all alone and without hope. What Katherine discovers is that even in the midst of our despair, God is totally aware and concerned about our life. I do not believe it is a question of "Will God?", but the reality of "God will!" This affirmation is borne of faith and experiences which have taught me that God has more than enough grace to sufficiently enable me to face any circumstance in my life. I hope you like Part 3.

Dr. Matthews walked hurriedly down the corridor towards Inpatient Admissions. As he turned the corner, he could hear a woman’s voice yelling. “I’m not sitting down until I find out about my husband! If you don’t allow me to see my husband, I’ll sue this hospital and fire every one of you on staff!” He now understood why the nurse in admissions requested he come as soon as possible. He spoke as he approached Katherine. “Mrs. Schaeffer?” “Yes, I’m Katherine Schaeffer! Who are you?” Dr. Matthews didn’t want to alarm Katherine, but he needed to get her to focus on the urgency of her husband's condition instead of the nurse who she was shouting at. “I’m the doctor who initially treated your husband in ER before he was admitted into surgery. May I speak with you about your husband's condition?” Katherine looked into the eyes of the doctor, sensing the need to be quiet and listen for a moment. Everything inside made her feel like an erupting volcano, but she realized that would not help Andrew or the medical staff working to save his life. “What is my husband’s condition doctor? Will he live?" “Please come with me Mrs. Schaeffer. After I brief you on your husband’s condition, I will take you to the waiting area outside of surgery.” Dr. Matthews led Katherine into a small room next to the chapel and began to explain the extent of the injuries Andrew sustained. As she stood silently listening, it was as if Dr. Matthews was speaking a foreign language. She heard certain words but most of what was said, sounded like gibberish. “Your husband has suffered a serious head trauma and it was necessary to relieve the cranial pressure to his brain. In addition he has a punctured right lung, several broken ribs, a cracked vertebrae to his spine, both legs were badly broken and his left leg may require amputation due to the loss of blood flow. An emergency splenectomy was necessary due to the laceration and damage to his spleen. We are doing everything possible at this time to save your husband’s life. I realize hearing all this is unsettling and I’m not trying to cause you any unnecessary stress but until he is out of surgery, I cannot give you a prognosis on his condition. What I will tell you is that if he survives surgery, his recovery will be a long and difficult one. He will need your love, support, encouragement and strength. Do you have any questions for me Mrs. Schaeffer?” There was finally a pause that somehow gave Katherine some momentary relief, but then everything the doctor said began stirring the anxiety within her again. “Is my husband going to live Dr. Matthews?” “As I have indicated Mrs. Schaeffer, until he comes out of surgery, I just cannot say at this time. If you would like, I could have someone here at the hospital offer you some counseling. We also have clergy staff along with volunteers who are willing to pray for patients and family members.” Katherine almost broke into a hysterical laughter at the thought of someone praying for Andrew. Andrew’s father was a retired pastor. He always thought Andrew would join him in ministry, but something disillusioned Andrew years ago, and he would never discuss the reasons with anyone; not his father, mother or sister knew what changed in his life. There were instances when Katherine thought he would share the reasons with her, but Andrew would never speak about his life as a Christian. No matter who invited Andrew to church service, he would dismiss the thought with distain. She decided to call his parents, she needed them now. They had always been supportive of her since her parents died so many years ago. “Doctor, I need to call Andrew’s parents.” “One of the officers got their contact information and they are on the way to the hospital now.” As he spoke, an incoming text arrived on his cell. He read the message and then looked at Katherine. “Your husband's parents have arrived here. Would you like me to bring them here?” Katherine, felt what seemed like millions of emotions pouring out of her. She bolted from the room, running to the man and woman standing in the corridor. When Andrew’s mother turned and saw Katherine, her arms instinctively spread open to embrace her. Katherine seemed to fling herself into the arms of her mother-in-law. “Katherine, the policemen gave us the news, have you learned anything about Andrew’s condition?” “All I know is that he is in surgery and his injuries were extensive.” Dr. Schaeffer placed his arms around Katherine and his wife. His voice was soft and reassuring as he spoke to them. “Let’s find a quiet place to sit, talk and pray. We’ll stay here and wait until we get some information on his condition.” He led them through the doors of the chapel. Katherine felt uneasiness as she entered realizing how long it had been since she even thought about church. "I'm so afraid Dr. Schaeffer. What will I do if Andrew..." She looked into his brown eyes, knowing she could not allow herself to even say the word. Somehow, his eyes revealed that he understood her doubts and fears. "My child, we have nothing to fear. I trust God with my son's life. I believe he will live and not die!" His words were filled with the confident years of a life characterized by faith. Katherine found a measure of hope and peace in his eyes. As they sat down, Andrew's mother held Katherine's hand while Dr. Schaeffer began to pray. "Almighty God and Father, we your servants call upon You in the name of Jesus Christ our Eternal Redeemer..." Short story by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

A Good Life (Part 2)

Note: As a Christian, I have often found that life does not always follow a sequence which my mind has mapped out for me. Unexpected things occur which can potentially change my flow and direction. How I respond to these events and circumstances will determine and demonstrate my resolve to genuinely trust the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind and spirit. This fictional short story about a couple, Katherine and Andrew attempts to convey the message that even under the most difficult of circumstances, God loves and cares about me. I hope you like Part 2.

Katherine rushed down the stairs to open the front door. She looked in the mirror at her hair and makeup, silently approving her view. Upon opening the door, her cheerful smile changed into momentary confusion; then she realized why the men in uniform were there. “I’m very sorry. I probably set off the security alarm again by mistake. Everything here is fine, I’m sure you men have more important things to do than check on a false alarm.” The older policemen smiled uncomfortably and spoke. “We’re with the police department. Are you Katherine Schaeffer?” “Yes I am but…” The officer interrupted Katherine… “Your husband is Andrew Schaeffer?” “Yes, he is but…” “I’m sorry to inform you Mrs. Schaeffer, but your husband was involved in an accident…” “What did you say, an accident? When? Where? How did it happen? Is Andrew alright?” With each word, Katherine became more and more anxious. Panic began to take hold of her thoughts and words. “Where is my husband? I need to leave, he needs me!” The younger policeman attempted to calm Katherine. “We can drive you to the hospital Mrs. Schaeffer…” “Yes, take me to my husband now!” Katherine sat in the back of the police car, so many thoughts streamed through her mind. What would she do without Andrew? Should she call his parents? What about his sister Maggie? She was unable to decide. She looked out the window, but was unable to recognize anything familiar. She noticed the gray color of the car seat and thought about the kind of people who typically rode in the back of a police car. The kind of people she had no similarities with. The police car parked in front of St. Anne’s Emergency Room entrance. Katherine attempted to open the car door but was unable. She screamed… “Why won’t this door open?” The younger officer exited the squad car and opened the rear door. He was about to explain the reason the door wouldn’t open, but Katherine walked past him as though he didn’t even exist. The older officer smiled and said… “Don’t take it personally son; we’re invisible to most people except the ones who break the law!” Katherine walked through the hospital doors, heading to the admittance desk. The nurse behind the desk smiled and asked. “How may I help you?” “I’m here to see my husband. He was in an accident.” The nurse could hear the concern in Katherine’s shaky voice and spoke calmly. “What is your husband’s name?” “Schaeffer, Andrew Schaeffer.” The nurse began scanning names of those admitted. Samuel, Sanders, Saxon, Schaeffer. She looked for a status on Andrew Schaeffer and looked up to Katherine. “Your husband is in surgery. Would you like to speak with the admitting physician?” “Where is surgery? I want to go there and wait for my husband!” “You’re not allowed into surgery Mrs. Schaeffer. Perhaps you should speak with one of the doctors.” The nurse picked up the telephone and spoke softly into it. She then hung up the phone and turned to Katherine. “Dr. Matthews will be here shortly to speak with you. You may have a seat if you like.” Frantic, Katherine cold not hold back the tears and emotions erupting inside. “I don’t need to have a seat! I want to be with my husband!” Short story by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

A Good Life

Note: I wanted to write a short story and had an idea, but instead, my writing took a completely different storyline. Perhaps instead of what I wanted to write, this is what my heart needed to write. This short story is evolving, even as I write this note to you. It will be written in parts simply because I anticipate that it has some length. It is unedited and that's pretty much how I write. Thoughts and words seem to flow from my right brain, enabling me to recognize that I have something to say. I hope you like Part 1.

Andrew and Katherine lived a good life. Their home was on a wooded lot near a beautiful creek. Katherine loved walking by the creek with Andrew holding her hand. She loved the summer nights best. Andrew had a good job which paid well, allowing them to enjoy the fruits of his labor. Often Andrew would barbeque on the deck and Katherine would be the good hostess to old friends from college. One night as they sat on the deck under a moonlit sky, Andrew leaned back and said, “We have a good life honey!” Katherine smiled, nodding in agreement. She thought to herself, It is a good life! The next day, having overslept, Andrew rushed to shower, shave, dress and drive to work. There was an important meeting he was invited to attend. More like required to attend, he thought. Day after day, he drove this same uneventful route to work. There was seldom any traffic until he turned on Bloomingdale Boulevard. On this particular morning, he forgot to look before turning. He didn’t consider this memory lapse important because he was in a hurry and he’d driven this same route many times before. As he turned the car to the right, he heard a horn blaring. It was the sound of a huge eighteen wheeler proceeding through the intersection. As he looked over his left shoulder, he could see the grill of the truck, and then the loud sound of metal hitting metal. He thought to himself, What a strange sound… The impact of the truck was beyond resistance as its wheels rolled over the top of the car’s roof. Still conscious, Andrew could now hear the sound of breaking bones. Although the driver of the truck attempted to break, it was to no avail. As the truck roll over the car and stopped, bystanders began capturing the wreckage on their cell phones. Someone called 911. Within minutes, the police, paramedics and fire department arrived. They would need to pry the car open to remove Andrew from the crumpled mess of metal and flesh. Firemen began cutting through the cars' frame while paramedics attempted to look for vital signs from Andrew. “I’ve got a pulse, but it’s very faint!” exclaimed one paramedic. “We’ve got to remove him from this car!” shouted another paramedic to the firemen. Finally, the firemen cut enough of the metal away to pull Andrew from the wreckage. He was a collection of blood and broken bones, but he was still alive. A policeman asked one of the paramedics to check for a wallet. Reaching inside Andrew's bloodied coat pocket, he retrieved a wallet and cell. The policeman wrote down his name and address: Andrew Schaeffer, 1502 Mulberry Lane He next checked the address book in his cell for any surnames matching Schaeffer. Finally, he found the name, Katherine Schaeffer, 806-297-4651 Just as the officer was about to call, his partner tapped him on the shoulder and suggested, “Sir, don’t you think it best if we drive over to talk with Ms. Schaeffer?” “You’re probably right son.” It was a short drive to Mulberry Lane and yet there was nothing but silence between these two policemen. As they walked to the front door of 1502, the older policeman checked the name and address one last time before ringing the bell. From the other side of the door, he could hear a woman’s voice politely reply, “Coming….” Short story by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Why Pray?

Just Pray!

I’ve often heard others say... “Don’t just pray when you need God…pray always!” But what’s wrong with praying when you need God’s help? Certainly, it’s good to establish a consistent prayer life…     but many don’t have this in their everyday life. Prayer is simply talking with God and to me,     that means...     Anytime is a good time to talk with God. Some hesitate to pray because they may feel     “it’s been too long”, or     “God won’t hear them” But God listens all the time…     he delights in hearing your prayers. The bible says that, “God gives grace” To me, that means that He gives grace in such a sufficient amount, that I am not lacking. So my answer to the question, “Why pray?” is:     God hears. Nike says, “Just do it!” I’ll say, “Just pray!” MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Hello Jesus...

She sat alone in the dark… All her hopes dashed. A life spent in futile exercises of frustration. Exhausted, she held no hope for reprieve. What to do? What to do? She thought, “Tell it to Jesus. Pray to Him who hears all.” What good will that do? He won’t hear me! Even if He does hear, He won’t answer me! She pondered her dilemma. After all this time, will He listen? Thoughts of childhood and church seeped in. She remembered the nice old lady who taught the children stories from the bible. What was that story which always caught my attention? Was is Jacob? No. Jezebel? No. Job? Yes, that was it! What was it his wife told him? Curse God and die! As a little girl, she couldn’t understand why anyone would curse God! But now, facing setback after setback, she understood how a person could give up; give up on life, give up on friends, give up on family, give up on everything, even God. Again, she wondered…will He listen to me? God blessed Job, but what could He do with my broken, tattered life? What could I say that wouldn’t be rejected? What will I say that God wouldn’t dismiss? She thought long and hard, but no answer was forthcoming. That nice old lady would always have the children hold hands and pray. She thought, Back then as a little girl, I believed in prayer, but now, I don’t even know how to pray. What was it she used to say to us? “Prayer is nothing more than talking to God!” Again, she thought, That’s right, just try talking to God; perhaps He will listen! What do I have to lose? In the quiet of her bedroom, she knelt down and clasped her hands together. Softly, she slowly began to talk, Hello Jesus, I know it's been a long time, but….

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte and Ginger).

Look at Me Lord

Look at me Lord as I pray
(Image courtesy of http://gr8trimpact.com)

Look at me Lord; I’m down on my knees. I’ve been here before…     Lord, hear my plea. Times are hard, but I’ll never give up Touch me Lord… please fill my cup. Teach me the words…     of the Apostle’s Creed Remind me again, it’s You that I need The light in me…     must shine so bright. Illumine me Lord…     You are The Light. I once was blind, but now I see. Are not mere words…     to those set free. Free to walk, in the newness of life. You transformed me...     from darkness to light. I’ve risen with Christ…     who rose from the dead. The church is the body…     He is the head. So look at me Lord, pour out your grace. Purge me with hyssop...     prostrate on my face. Lying before…     Your Heavenly Throne. My soul thirsts for You, cause heaven's my home. I want to go home, but I need to stay. There’s work to be done...     I’m the Potter’s clay. So look at me Lord…     it's here where I stand. I love you Lord Jesus…     my life’s in Your hands. Yes, look at me Lord…     You’ve blessed my life. I’m ready to labor…     the harvest is ripe. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Pray Without Ceasing

Pray without ceasing

When all else fails, pray. It’s good to pray when all else fails, but why wait? Pray before failure, pray in the midst of my circumstance, and pray when the circumstance seems lost; God hears me pray. Pray without ceasing. I will not cease to pray. I will not tire of praying. I will not give up on God. Praying is a choice…I choose to pray. But why pray to God? I’ve never seen Him, yet He’s ever present in my life. Time after time, He has intervened in my life; I’m a witness to His grace and mercy. I believe this is the confidence of faith the Apostle John writes about: “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” -- 1 John 5:14 God hears us! How remarkable is that? Almighty God chooses to hear us! I began my Christian journey hopeful, thankful, and joyous; but I was also filled with uncertainty. Does God hear me? What about my past? I was constantly reminded of what I’d done, instead of what Christ accomplished. In time, I came to realize I was forgiven; I was freed to come boldly to the Throne of Grace to find help in my time of need. Praying isn’t based on how I feel; prayer is my choice. Paul said, “I press on”. No matter what happens, my choice is to press on (i.e., pray on); no matter how I feel. “Never stop praying.” -- 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Every circumstance I face in life is an opportunity to ask God to hear me; it’s my God-given opportunity to pray. I can call a family member, a friend, or a professional counselor, but sometimes, the only response is their voice mail. They can call me at critical times in their life, but I may be unavailable, too busy, or just not in the mood. None of us can claim that we hear everything someone says to us. God hears! Don’t be hesitant, don’t stop. Keep praying, God hears you.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Ask

Ask God, image by whispersfortheheart.files.wordpress.com

Ask… I always seem to be asking, seeking, or needing an answer. I love answers to my petitions. I read in the bible God’s word which offers me encouragement Jesus says, “Ask…”     So I ask. On my knees, I ask. Sitting in my room, I ask. Standing in agreement, I ask. Nothing will hinder me from asking. I am adopted by God, a member of His family. Sometimes, I ask my Heavenly Father… There are times when I will ask my Savior, Jesus Christ. There are times when I will ask the Holy Spirit. Yes, No, or Not now...     He answers, always, He answers. Morning, noon, or night…     I ask. Poem by MTJ

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Way Lost!

Lost In a Maze, image courtesy of peacefulprosperity.com

Although I didn't write this as prose, I wanted to remain in this month's theme of The Condition of Being Lost. Some of you may view this as a prayer, and that's cool. Some may consider it a thoughtful personal reflection. Some may consider it just what I needed to read! Whatever your thoughts are, I'm glad you're reading it. Perhaps you'll pray and share it with someone you know. I hope it's viewed as a humble encouragement, not a condemnation of anyone.

Lost in a maze of confused thoughts and ideas,     with no answers to summon from my experience. I remember an old man talking to me about Christ;     but at the time, it made no sense to me. I was too smart for religion! I was too cool to be “spiritual”. Now that all my options have failed, I hear those same words echoing in my mind. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden,     and I will give you rest.     Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me,     for I am gentle and lowly in heart,     and you will find rest for your souls.     For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”1 Could it be this simple? What did that old man quote from the bible? “’For My thoughts are not your thoughts,     Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord.”2 Will God hear me after all this time? Why would He listen to someone who never listened to Him? Jesus, I don't know if You're listening; I hope You are. I never believed You were important to someone like me. Someone with his own set of ready-made answers. I was wrong. Everything I valued in life has come up far short of my expectations. My relationships, health, behavior, thoughts, desires, and goals...     all are gone now. All that remains, are the tattered remnants of a chaotic life. I don't know what to do. I've run out of answers. I am in need of guidance and help. I see now that I must change, but I'm incapable of changing myself. If it were as simple as losing weight, I would change my diet. If it were a matter of clothes, I would change my wardrobe. If it were just a matter of locale, I would relocate to another place. But it goes much deeper than that... I need changing from the inside. That old man quoted another scripture, “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy,     to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice,     holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”3 I don't even fully understand what that means, but I'm willing to do that now. I want to learn at the foot of the cross. It's not acclaim I seek, I want forgiveness, peace and reconciliation. I want this endless loop to conclude. I would like to walk in a direction that actually leads to a true destination. I remember that old man quoting a scripture, “In My Father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you.”4 Have You really prepared a place for one who never considered You? Today, I place my life upon the altar of Your cross Jesus. Whatever You do for me, is far more than I deserve; but I gladly accept what You offer. You offer me forgiveness, life, love, joy, contentment, and peace. These priceless gifts cannot be bought, and yet You give them to those who humbly ask. I want to thank You Jesus for hearing me. Somehow, my life already seems different. I'm not looking for a way out; I'm looking to You. That old man said, “…looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith…”5 My life is in Your hands, do with me what is right in Your eyes. I trust You. I don't want to betray this trust, so I ask that You help me trust in You. Saying, "Thank You" may seem low key to the hollywood version that "puts on a show",     but I am so thankful, that You hear me, that You answer me, and that You saved me. Help me see life through Your eyes. I want to let this mind be in me that is also in You. I want to have ears that hear; not ears that itch. I want my words to be acceptable and pleasing to You. I want to touch and agree with the heart and attitude of faith. I want to be filled with the outpouring of Your Holy Spirit. I want to take hold, grasp, and embrace You as firmly...     as Your gospel of salvation has taken hold of me.

Note: This post is linked to Spiritual Sundays (hosted by Charlotte).

Footnotes:

1. Matthew 11:28-30, NKJV
2. Isaiah 55:8, NKJV
3. Romans 12:1, NIV
4. John 14:2, NKJV
5. Hebrews 12:2, NKJV

References:

1. The Ryrie Study Bible (New American Standard Version), Edited by Charles C. Ryrie, Moody Publishers, Chicago, Illinois, ISBN 0-8024-8920-6
2. King James Version, The Crusade Analytical Study Edition, Crusade Bible Publishers, Inc., PO Box 90011, Nashville, Tennessee 37209
3. New King James Version, by Nelson Bibles, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Inc., PO Box 141000, Nashville, Tennessee, ISBN-13: 978-0840713704
4. The NIV Study Bible, Edited by Kenneth Barker, Donald Burdick, John Stek, Walter Wessel and Ronald Youngblood, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49530, USA

Sweet P's: Praise God for the Victory

Each Friday, Tiffany (Tea With Tiffany) hosts a meme requesting that other bloggers join her in a round of sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!)

I offer praise to God for victory. Sometimes when contending against doubt, worry, concern and fear, the best thing to do is to give God praise for the victory. The bible says that we contend against unseen powers of darkness, spiritual forces of wickedness whose sole purpose is to rob, kill and destroy our faith, hope and trust in the Lord. Many times, when I was on the verge of obtaining victory in Christ, I allowed the lies of doubt to make me afraid; causing me to cower and run away in fear. I now see that God reigns supreme over all creation and that I have nothing to fear, I will not doubt the Lord. I have come to the realization that even if I am placed in my very own fiery trial, I will not lose faith in the Living God. I can lose everything in this world but I will not lose the foundation upon which I stand. Today, I stand in victory, I stand on the solid Rock whose name I praise, Jesus Christ!

Almighty God, Father and Creator,

I bless Your name because I see you as the One, True God, Holy, Magnificient and Faithful. Through Your infinite love, You shower my life with blessings beyond measure; You are my Jehovah Jireh. Why do You bless me Lord? Why do You shower my life with joy? Who am I that You constantly encourage? I am Your child! Adopted and loved by You!

How I want to worship You! To come before Your courts with praise, thanksgiving and adoration! You are higher than the heavens and yet You live in me. How wonderful You are!

"What shall I render to the Lord For all His benefits toward me? I shall lift up the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of the Lord."

I am free because of You Lord, loosed from the shackles of my sins. Like a young colt, I romp in the pasture of Your grace. The fragrance of Your love consumes me. I am altogether a sight of perplexity to those who don't know You; my joy is unrestrained. You have become all things to me.

Your name roll off my lips with unspeakable joy, I cannot be silent; You fill me with passion and love. How I seek to please You with my life.

You have shown me that which was hidden from my eyes but stood plainly before me; the revelation of my Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ. I have placed my hope and trust in the Lord my Savior.

I stand now in victory. My enemy defeated, flees to safety; there is no escape. The stronghold is vanquished!

Shelter, food, clothing are my provisions from You. My debts are paid. You employ my hands and I find work. In sickness, You healed me. In sorrow and grief, You comfort me. Even when I behaved as a wild dog, You fed me crumbs. You withheld no good thing from me. You give visions and dreams revealing that, "...with God all things are possible." You command what is possible into reality. You declare from Your throne, "...I am making all things new." From the foundation of Your word, You call into being the things which are unseen. Revealing them to those who walk by faith and not by sight.

You are Jehovah Nissi, the banner I hold waving Your victory over my life. You take away my fears, I am strengthened with courage and conviction. Who is there that can contend with the Almighty God? There is none like You, O Lord.

I am ready for battle! I stand on the ground of victory, I will not fear the enemy, "...the battle is the Lord's..." I stand firm in the measure of faith You've given to me. My covering is Your truth. My heart is protected by Your righteousness. My feet wear the "...preparation of the Gospel of peace..." In one hand, I have, "the shield of faith", holding it in a manner that extinguishes the flaming missles hurled at me by the evil one. I wear the "helmet of salvation" which constantly guards my thoughts. In my other hand, I firmly hold, "the sword of the spirit", this is the word of God which I use to proclaim my testimony.

I shout in victory before the battle begins. I already know the outcome, You share with me Your strategy. Your plan unfolds and I know it is not my fight nor my battle. It is You Lord that the enemy of my faith shouts and taunts against; You bring them to shame and embarrassment. You will show Yourself and scatter the enemy as food for the birds of the air. Your truth reigns supreme, I will praise You always.

Thank You Lord God that I have been given the opportunity to declare Your righteousness. You are holy, faithful and true. Look on those in need and quicken their hearts; let Your joy leap inside them as a woman with child. Let them know, You are always near. Take away their fears and concerns; give them peace and contentment.

Thank You for just being You, the God of all creation. Amen.

---

(If you aren't writing Sweet P's, feel free to comment like normal if you choose.)

To join our blog hop we post every Friday through Sunday. Join anytime by following

these 4 steps:

1. Write your Sweet P's on your blog, which is You WRITING A PRAYER, PETITION or PRAISE to God. It's not asking for prayer, it's writing prayer.
2. Grab the Sweet P's code on my sidebar. Post the code anywhere inside your post.
3. Come back and add your blog link to blog hop. Visit other Sweet P's listed.
4. Grab "get the code" for the blog hop and paste inside your post. This allows you to access the blog hop list from your blog.

The Awe Factor

Worshipping as a group, image courtesy of photobucket.com

“And they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. And everyone kept feeling a sense of awe…”¹

As I stood in church Friday evening, I listened as a visiting minister urged the audience to enter into a frame of mind that indicated an attitude of worship. The more she stressed this outward response the more uncomfortable I became. As I tried to worship the Lord, I found my thoughts distracted by her insistent words. I asked myself,

Is God moved by the volume of my voice?

Is God exalted by how high my hands are lifted?

I took my seat, bowed my head, and began to pray. I told God that,

Although I didn’t feel like doing as I was instructed, I did honestly want to worship Him.

When I got home later that evening, I wondered,

Why does it seem that at times, there is a barrier to reaching God?

I wondered if anyone else ever had these thoughts and how they addressed them. I realize that for me, I’ve just began attending church and truthfully, I don’t really know anyone. For that matter, no one really knows me. But we all assemble at set times in a corporate effort to worship the Lord. There are worship leaders who help to frame our thoughts; the goal is that we reach an outward expression of an inward desire. At least, I believe that’s what I’m attempting to do, so I assume others have a similar mindset. But I’m really not certain because I’m the new guy.

I read this passage in Acts about new converts who were “continually devoting themselves to the apostles teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” What really impressed me was that the bible says, “everyone kept feeling a sense of awe…” It goes on to say in the next verse,

“And all those who had believed were together, and had all things in common…”²

I realize that in the first century, the culture and structure of the Christian church was much different than it is in our modern society, but there still has to be a sense of community, a commonality (of thought, intent and purpose), a fellowship in the things we do and share. The Greek word koinonia (koy-nohn-ee’-ah) means, partnership, i.e. (literally speaking) participation, or (social) intercourse, or (pecuniary) benefaction :--(to) communicate (-ation), communion, (contri-) distribution, fellowship.

As the Christian believers participated in the teachings, social interaction, communion and prayer, they became known by one another. Their lives were shared lives because they became invested in one another.

Correction:Yesterday, the reference I used for the word awe was incorrect. I've modified the text below after verifying several sources.
The Greek word used for awe is phobos (fob'os) which means, fear, dread, terror, that which strikes terror; reverence for one's husband; cause of fear, intimidation, respect, respectful, reverence, sense of awe.

I can understand how believers were afraid and intimidated when witnessing the signs and wonders performed by the apostles. I believe that these Christian disciples moved from the place of fear and intimidation to a position of respect, reverence and a sense of awe because they witnessed the move of God and the operation of the Holy Spirit. Thinking of the emotions I felt the first time I saw one of my children gave me an indescribable moment of joy, elation and wonder; I was in awe.

I understood that here in my hands was a life that I was instrumental in producing.

I believe that no matter how old our children are, there are those moments when we are in awe of them. It doesn’t have to be anything they say or do; we just don’t have words to describe the emotions they evoke in us.

I wondered what this has to do with a community of believers being in awe and I began to realize that through Christ, God has produced in me new life; this new life is the life of Christ. I realize that this is no great revelation but to understand that God has placed His life in me, a life as real as the life of my children, gives me a sense of awe that I cannot describe.

But this is at a personal level and I’ve yet to continually experience this in group worship.

I’m wondering if this is because I don’t share in having all things common yet.

I believe that if I’m to penetrate this worship barrier, I will need to integrate myself within the church and allow myself to be known by others that are a part of this community of believers. I will continue to devote myself to the teachings, fellowship, communion and prayer.

This is the path of trusting God, being transparent to those within the community of believers I am a part of. Part of being in awe is fulfilling my responsibility as a believer: to learn from instruction, to become known and to know others like me, to participate in communion and to come together and pray.

These aren’t unique to the first century church, they are transcendent over time. I want to experience this awe every time (whether) I’m in or out of church. At home, I find it much easier because there are no distractions (I cannot control) but in church I’m discovering I can become distracted. I suppose what I’m saying is that I don’t want to come to church and parrot what I see everyone else doing. I really want my thoughts and attention on spiritual worship. My concern is that mimicking this would bleed into other aspects of my life and instead of being truly honest with God and others, I’m just going through the motions of being a Christian. I’m not necessarily talking about living a sinful lifestyle but there is a dichotomy between transparency and secrecy. I want my life to be an outward expression of who I really am.

This is where trusting the Holy Spirit becomes so vital because even in my most sincere moments, my thoughts can be distracted; but He will purify them for me to God.

“And in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”

Father God,

Your word says, "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" and I want to have an attitude that pleases You. I want both my words and actions to be representative of Christ. I want to be genuine in my life so that others may recognize the honesty and integrity of Christ. I want to have fellowship with the community of believers where I worship You. I want to be in awe of the life You've given me; the life of Christ Jesus my Savior. I trust the Holy Spirit to communicate my worship, prayer, praise and life that you are glorified and honored. Thank You for this life. Amen.

Footnotes:

1. Acts 2:42-43, NASB
2. Acts 2:44, NASB
3. Romans 8:26-27, NASB

References:

1. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, By James B. Strong, S.T.D, LL.D., Riverside Book and Bible House, Iowa Falls, Iowa 50126
2. The Layman's Parallel New Testament, Zondervan Bible Publishers, Grand Rapids, Michigan
3. The Ryrie Study Bible (New American Standard Version), Edited by Charles C. Ryrie, Moody Publishers, Chicago, Illinois, ISBN 0-8024-8920-6

Sweet P's: For those of us who've lost our bearing

Each Friday, Tiffany (Tea With Tiffany) hosts a meme requesting that other bloggers join her in a round of sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!).

I'm praying for those who've called me, emailed me and those bloggers who've shared their struggles. I'm burdened by the isolation and helplessness you feel. Please know that you're not alone; God loves and cares about you.

Father God,

There are those times when it seems as if circumstances overwhelm us and it seems as if there is no clear direction from you. I know in my heart that's not true because Jesus said, "I am the way"; and yet, here I am where it seems that I'm so far from You Lord. I ponder the questions, I confess my sins, I pray and meditate but still, I feel so alone.

Help me Lord! In my distress, I will call out to You. Through these tears, I will lift my eyes toward You. In spite of the pain, I will stretch my hands out to You. I am a sheep from Your flock. I've wandered off alone and without You, I'm weak, helpless and vulnerable; Lord I'm afraid to take the next step.

"Why, O Lord, do You stand far off? Why do You hide Yourself in times of trouble?"

"How long, O Lord? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?"

"But I trust in Your unfailing love, my heart rejoices in Your salvation."

"He reached down from on high and took hold of me..."

My confidence in You Lord is unshaken; though darkness seems all around me. I trust You Lord. You are my rock and refuge. You bolster me with Your love and grace; I am strengthened so that I need not fear. "...my God turns my darkness into light."

You nurture and feed me as a bird feeds their young; You satisfy me Lord. Who can separate me from the love of Christ? I will testify of Your goodness. Though some may cover their ears, I will not be silent. I will proclaim Your infinite goodness. You are just, holy and faithful. Your promises fail not; You've made provisions for me and my household.

I will not give in to my doubts. I will not listen to my fears. I will not walk away from You Lord. My hope is in You Lord. I will overcome by the blood of the Lamb of God and by the word of my testimony.

"Your ways, O God, are holy...You are the God who performs miracles...I will meditate on all Your works and consider all Your mighty deeds."

Your light shines bright, illuminating my path, leading me back towards You; I hear Your voice calling out to me. My child, come back to me. Lord, You are my refuge. In You I find rest; You give me joy and hope.

I give You thanks my Lord and my God. I ask You to look now on those who've spoken or written to me, sharing their innermost concerns. I lift them up to You Lord and I ask You in the name of Jesus, the name that stands above every name, please comfort them in this their time of need. Extend Your bountiful grace to them that they would be encouraged. Assure them that they can trust in You. Touch them in the way that only the Living God can do, that they may benefit from a spiritual gift You impart to them.

Thank You for a love that endures, even in those times when we ourselves have been unloving; You love us. Thank You for Your grace that abounds. May You be glorified in us. Amen.

---

(If you aren't writing Sweet P's, feel free to comment like normal if you choose.)

To join our blog hop we post every Friday through Sunday. Join anytime by following these 4 steps:

1. Write your Sweet P's on your blog, which is You WRITING A PRAYER, PETITION or PRAISE to God. It's not asking for prayer, it's writing prayer.
2. Grab the Sweet P's code on my sidebar. Post the code anywhere inside your post.
3. Come back and add your blog link to blog hop. Visit other Sweet P's listed.
4. Grab "get the code" for the blog hop and paste inside your post. This allows you to access the blog hop list from your blog.

Sweet P's -- Hear Me Lord

Each Friday, Tiffany (Tea With Tiffany) hosts a meme requesting that other bloggers join her in a round of sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!).

This morning I feel such a strong need to pray for someone who I don't even know but I believe that this prayer will speak to you and to our God. Perhaps you feel unable or unworthy to pray, I don't know the reason but I want to pray for you just the same. As you read this, please allow the Holy Spirit to minister to your heart. My thoughts seem to be in more than one place so I can't concern myself with any kind of prayer protocol. If you find something to agree with, just say, "Amen."

Father God,

This week, I've read and listened to reports on the nation's economy, joblessness, and housing. Some families find themselves stretched beyond their limit. Like the widow told Elijah, many now can say, "I don't have any bread." Many find themselves out of their comfort zone. Some wonder why You seem so far away that they no longer can feel Your presence. Like Job, many now find themselves under the winepress that test one's faith, and they wonder, What's next? Some feel the pull of sin drawing them back into the slavery that has bound them for so long. Lord please set them free.

What can I say Lord? What am I to do? I need a change. I need You to turn things around.

"I lift up my eyes to the hills--where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." It is You and You alone Lord who I seek. My soul cries out for Your presence but I cannot find You. I am in a place that's unfamiliar to me and I want to escape but I'm unable. How did I get here? Why do I find myself here of all places? Speak to me Lord, that I may answer and obey. Lord, I've sinned and I know what I've done has caused a breach in our relationship but now I make a confession of repentance. I want to be in Your presence again. I want to feel Your love for me. I ask You Lord, do not withhold Your grace from me.

When I think of Your goodness and I recall the joy You give me; it is the joy of salvation, it is the joy of life everlasting, it is the joy of Your peace. I've missed You Lord. Even when I ignored You, I found my thoughts being directed to You. Help me Lord. I am powerless to stop this tide that overtakes me. I'm swept away again and again by the rushing current. Only You can save me now.

"I will praise You, O Lord, with all my heart...O Lord, You have searched me and You know me...Out of the depths I cry to You O Lord...hear my voice...with You there is forgiveness."

Lord, my heart cries out for You, I seek you in the morning, I call to You at the noon day hour, and at night I watch and wait for You to come. You are my shield and strong tower; Your strength cannot be broken.

You take me to new heights that I may see through Your eyes the length and breath of my life; I see only You Lord. You are my beginning and You are my end. Let me rejoice in Your presence once again. I will sing of Your holiness and I will dance before You, yes I will dance before You Lord. Your love for me is steadfast and now I am certain, You have reassured me of Your truth.

How wonderful You are my Lord. I see Your goodness and mercy but there is no ending of it. You fill me beyond my capacity to contain this blessing and now I am overflowing.

"I love the Lord, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy...What shall I render to the Lord For all His benefits toward me? I shall lift up the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of the Lord."

I will praise You and declare, "Blessed be the name of the Lord...from the rising of the sun to its setting The name of the Lord is to be praised." I will praise You with my whole heart, with my whole mind, with my whole strength and with my soul; I will praise You Lord. In the midst of my circumstances, I will praise Your wonderful name; the name of Jesus.

Thank You for hearing me Lord. Thank You for Your unmerited grace. Thank You for removing the guilt of my sins. I have determined to seek only You now, throughout the days of my life, though they are numbered, I commit them to You; My Lord and My God. Jesus, You are precious to me. You embrace me with salvation and my words fail me now; even in my silence I will worship You Lord. Amen.

---

(If you aren't writing Sweet P's, feel free to comment like normal if you choose.)

To join our blog hop we post every Friday through Sunday. Join anytime by following these 4 steps:

1. Write your Sweet P's on your blog, which is You WRITING A PRAYER, PETITION or PRAISE to God. It's not asking for prayer, it's writing prayer.
2. Grab the Sweet P's code on my sidebar. Post the code anywhere inside your post.
3. Come back and add your blog link to blog hop. Visit other Sweet P's listed.
4. Grab "get the code" for the blog hop and paste inside your post. This allows you to access the blog hop list from your blog.

Sweet P's -- Praying for those in fear

Each Friday, Tiffany (Tea With Tiffany) hosts a meme requesting that other bloggers join her in a round of sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!).

All week, I've been asking the Lord, "What shall I pray about? What can I say on behalf of those needing Your help? Who shall I stand in agreement with so that You are in our midst Lord?"

The truth is, I don't know how to pray. I have found during the past few weeks of joining Tiffany and other believers that it is first a privilege to pray for others but it is not something I want to take for granted; to be just uttering a bunch of nice sounding words. I believe what I say matters, but I also believe that what I say needs to line up with a genuine sincere heart that honors God as the strength of my life and the source whom I rely upon.

I find myself in front of my computer in the early morning hour, awakened from a peaceful sleep, an indication to me that it's time to pray. I'm appending my Sweet P's along with Tiffany and others in a offering to our Lord. I invite you to please join with us.

"O my God,

incline Your ear and hear; open Your eyes and see" the many needs of those crying out, "save me!" All week, Your Holy Spirit has reminded me of the children of Israel standing on the banks of the Red Sea pursued by an enemy intent on destroying them. Right now, at this very moment Lord, there are others facing their very own Red Sea experience.

Their enemy may be unemployment, it may be sickness, it may be foreclosure of their home, it may be a failing marriage, it may be an abusive relationship, it may be a failing business, it may be an addiction, it may be legal problems, it may be low self-esteem, or it may be unconfessed sin. I don't know who their enemy is that pursues them but You are the Omnipotent God, You know who that enemy is and how long that enemy has been chasing them down.

Just as Moses spoke, I want to echo his words today by saying to those who are fearful, "Do not fear, Stand by and see the salvation of the Lord...The Lord will fight for you while you keep silent."

Cause us to remember that, "those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Send an army of angels to fight on behalf of those who've become weary from being pursued. Many of Your people are discouraged, tired, weak and sapped of any strength but I remember You declared that, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Let Your strength break forth O Lord as we acknowledge our weakness. We cannot defeat this enemy without You.

Open our eyes that we may see the glory of Your power and might. Just as You caused the Red Sea to swallow up the Egyptians, I ask You O Lord to swallow up this enemy right now by Your power and might. Do this Lord that we might rejoice and say: "I will sing unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and the rider hath He thrown into the sea. The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation."

We declare that, "The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear?...My heart shall not fear..I shall be confident."

What is there that anyone can say, "This is too hard for God?" What can separate us from Your precious love? There is nothing too high or too deep or too wide that can cause a gulf between Your love and Your people.

You are our strong tower and mighty shield. I confess my faith in You my Lord and King. Thank You Jesus for moving in these situations and rescuing so many, for giving courage in the face of fear, for giving hope in the midst of our trials and for giving peace in the depth of despair.

Thank You Lord. I cannot praise You enough for Your goodness and grace. It is You O Lord, "who is able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think..." To You be glory, honor and dominion.

May our joy burst forth like the morning sun, exalting You as our Lord and Savior. We lift up our hands in adoration and praise in honor of the love You shower upon our lives. We depend on You in all things. Thank You Lord for hearing and answering our cry for help. Amen.

Sweet P's -- Praying for those facing trouble

Each Friday, Tiffany (Tea With Tiffany) hosts a meme requesting that other bloggers join her in a round of sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!). I'm appending my Sweet P's along with her's and others in a offering to our Lord. I invite you to please join with us.

Our Father in heaven,

So many people feel alone, helpless, hopeless, discouraged, defeated, beaten down, bruised, neglected and lost; they feel like giving up. They may not even realize it but they are standing at the altar of deliverance and salvation. The enemy has assaulted them thinking that their lives can be taken but NO LORD! The enemy is a created being, just like me. There is only One God over all heaven and earth. The enemy doesn't understand that all those scheming, conniving and cunning efforts only steer us to the altar of Your deliverance.

I remember what Jesus said about the daughter of Jairus, "The child has not died, but is asleep." People laughed at Jesus. But Jesus spoke to that child, "Little girl, I say to you, arise!" And right now the devil is mocking, believing he has a stronghold in someone's life but it's time to hear the word of the Lord speaking deliverance from anxiety and fear.

Jesus wants to speak life into someone's life, just as He did with Lazarus when He told Martha, "Your brother shall rise again." Jesus is the resurrection and the life; we live because of Christ, "in Him we live and move and have our being". Someone struggling needs the resurrection power of Christ in their life right now, enabling them to rise up from their circumstances. Oh my God, let them hear You say, "arise!"

The centurion said to Jesus, "Lord, I am not worthy for You to come under my roof, but just say the word, and my servant will be healed." Our Father, we have been made worthy by the blood of Jesus Christ, I ask You to say the word Lord, that healing and deliverance would be experienced in the lives of many who think all hope is gone.

People are facing disaster in their lives, whether it's because of flooding, oil spills, sickness, death, loss of work, loss of family, loss of hope; You're the God of redemption. Lord God, let the power of Your words speak life into their lives, speak deliverance and healing from circumstances. Lord speak the words of peace that exceeds all human understanding and comprehension because You are "able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think"; Your power "works within us" Lord God.

I thank You Father that so many are calling on You right now; interceeding for others. Your love encourages us to seek You, to send You our petitions; to call on the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

Thank You for hearing us and answering the needs of so many. I lift up my hands in praise of such a mighty God. You are the God of compassion and love. I believe that today, many will experience a breakthrough in their life, shouting victory and sending up praises to You. Thank You for the richness and abundance of Your grace. Bless Your holy name. Amen.

Sweet P's

Each Friday, Tiffany (Tea With Tiffany) hosts a meme requesting that other bloggers join her in a round of sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!). I'm appending my Sweet P's along with her's and others in a offering to our Lord.

Father God,

This week I have read of hurt, pain, discouragement, change, how should I love others and a desire to live more completely for You. Your word commands us to "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." Lord we offer up our prayers and make known our requests to You. Thanking you for this global community of bloggers who call on the name of Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord. We thank you Lord for the many who are led to read blog posts that You have led us to write.

We don't desire to be "...a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal."

We want our words to represent the quality of love that first called us to You. Words of love that impart patience, and kindness; words which lack jealousy, bragging and arrogance.

We lift up the leaders of our nation and "...all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity." We pray that in the hour that requires decisions that affect our nation, they might seek your face and receive the illumination of truth to govern wisely.

Many in our land remain homeless and jobless but we know that just as famine and lack can come like a thief, Your merciful grace can bring a shower of prosperity and blessing to our people and this nation. Our faith is not in the things we see but in the God of all creation. You have declared it and we believe:

"...and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

What a mighty God You are!

"For it is time for judgement to begin with the household of God..."

We glorify You our God. We glorify Your Son, Jesus Christ our Savior, Redeemer and Lord. We glorify Your Holy Spirit who lives within us.

What a mighty God we serve!

Let us not limit ourselves to simply be instruments that write but show us and direct us that we might impart a spiritual gift of love to those who are in need. We are Your instruments. "...O Lord, Thou art our Father, We are clay, and Thou our potter; And all of us are the work of Thy hand." Make us that instrument to be used for Your good purpose. Give us opportunities to be a blessing to others. Open our eyes that we might see. Tune our ears that we might hear. Sensitize us with Your compassion that we might feel.

We thank You Lord for Your faithfulness, compassion, grace and love; our lives belong to You.

Release Your peace where there is contention, animosity, hatred and conflict. A parent grieves for the loss of a son or daughter and wonders How can I forgive? A marriage destroyed leaves a husband and wife in pain and unwilling to go on; each asks, How can I ever trust you again? A worker faces the reality of a company layoff and finds frustration in a declining job market and thinks, Will I ever work again?

You are a God who knows. You are the God who answers. You are the God who hears. You know our needs even before we request them and so, we trust You in faith to meet the many needs; spoken and unspoken.

We praise You and thank You, all the days of our life; our Lord and God.

Amen.

Sweet P's c/o Tiffany

Today, I join with Tiffany (Tea with Tiffany) in appending my Sweet P's (Prayers, Petition, Praise!) with her and other fellow believers.

Father God,

I am humbled at the thought of joining others in prayer to exalt your name. I sense an unworthiness to come before the throne of grace, I kneel in your presence and I cannot make eye contact with you; I am in both awe and fear. My Lord Jesus sits to your right and despite my fears I move closer towards your throne.

My thoughts are unrehearsed and lacking cohesion but you command me to come boldly before your throne that I may obtain mercy and grace, helping in my time of need. This is my time of need Lord.

A friend asks that I pray, "for the courage to continue and discernment to know what to do next." and so I ask you to impart spiritual wisdom into the life of this believer and others crying out for wisdom. You have declared, "...if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who give to all men generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." You are no respecter of persons my Lord so whomever lacks wisdom will be given if we but ask.

You are the God who knows our secret thoughts, fears, doubts and insecurities. Touch us with Your mighty hand of grace and soothe our concerns. We ask for peace and in response you have said, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." I release my concerns, my fears, my insecurities, my doubts; placing my life, my hopes, and my trust in you.

"Abide in Me, and I in you." Lord Jesus may our lives remain connected to you because You have become our life and reason for living.

Strengthen us that we may have courage and conviction to face the trials of our lives (no matter what they are). Your word declares, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." We speak with boldness by the power of Your Spirit but not with arrogance. We demonstrate the love of our Lord, Jesus Christ but not with the intent of selfish gain. We are encouraged to have the mind of Christ as Your word declares, "Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus..."

We offer to you our lives as a sacrifice of praise because you alone are worthy of the praises of the Living God. We want our lives to be acceptable and pleasing and we ask you to examine us as only the Living God can. You see and know our beginning and our end. You have established a covenant with us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. We embrace Jesus as our Savior and Lord and we declare that He is the Exalted One whom the scriptures foretold. He is the promise of our redemption, the satisfaction for our sins and the hope of our resurrection.

With one voice, we praise You, Almighty God and Father. Yes, we praise the name of the Lord Most High. Keep us in the shelter of Your wings and lead us along the path of righteousness and life.

May those who don't know You, see You demonstrated in our life and find encouragement and inspiration to seek You. When we sin, may we seek Your forgiveness and find Your merciful grace. Teach us to love as You love, to have compassion for others, to give of ourselves and be a blessing in the lives of those You have purposed us for.

You are the God of purpose and You have given to each of us a purpose, a passion and participation in Your glorious Kingdom. You bless us beyond our capacity to understand. All I can say is, "Thanks be to God."

Give us a forgiving heart Dear Lord. Teach us that You have a more excellent way than one I could produce on my own. You have shown me and allowed me to experience what Godly forgiveness is and I am in awe of Your infinite capacity to love and forgive a people that so easily turn our backs toward you.

Let my life and words uphold the integrity and truth of who You are. Let me seek Your face with sincerity and honesty each day I live; May the life I live be to the glory of Your Beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.