Why Pray? Day 28 – Deliver Us from the Evil One

If you haven’t had a chance yet, please read Day 28, “Deliver Us from the Evil One” in Why Pray?...then come on back here. Thanks!

I love the Lord’s Prayer! What a privilege to get to pray the same words Jesus prayed to Our Father! Thing is, at the very end of the Lord’s Prayer there is a wee little sentence that so many of us tend to overlook…as if maybe it isn’t really that important:

“…but deliver us from the evil one.” Matthew 6: 13b

Jesus directly addressed spiritual warfare in many places in the Bible so it is obviously something that requires our attention. Satan is not only real, he desperately wants to separate us from God. UGH! He does it by any means necessary, too. He lies, he cheats, he steals…he plays rough and dirty.

(Speaking to some Jews who didn’t understand Jesus’ comments) “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.” John 8: 44

Satan even tried to bring Jesus to His knees before him:

“Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. ‘All this I will give you,’ he said, ‘if you will bow down and worship me.’”Matthew 4: 8-9

Thankfully we have been given a way to rebuke Satan! Jesus has given us enormous authority to send the devil away from us IN JESUS NAME. When you are being attacked by evil, Satan MUST flee when we rebuke him by the power of Jesus. Friends, the enemy cannot stand in Jesus’ presence! Praise God for His goodness and mercy!

I saw a rubber bracelet in a Christian bookstore a few years ago that said, “A.S.A.P. When life gets tough, Always Say A Prayer”. What a great reminder of the power of prayer and our need to connect with our Dad through prayer! He even cares for us so much that He gave us a “blue print” for communicating with Him (Matthew 6: 9-13 is where Jesus’ teaches The Lord’s Prayer). What Love!

Do you ever think about spiritual warfare? Has it ever affected your life or the lives of your loved ones? How about praying for others in Jesus’ Name – is it just “for good measure” or does Satan really have to flee in the presence of our Lord? Let’s discuss!

Blessings, Jennifer

Welcome to Day 27 of Why Pray? – “Lead Us Not Into Temptation!”

The journey continues!  This is delton by the way!  It is so good to be with you today! So what did you think of John Devries’s take on “Lead Us Not Into Temptation?”   What did you think of that amazing story of the egg?  So cool!

I have always been a little confused by the way Jesus worded this petition.  The “Why Pray?” book is helpful in suggesting that another (yet honest) way to say the petition would be “lead us away from temptation!”  Jesus seems to know just how vulnerable we are to temptation and that temptations are exceedingly abundant so He teaches us to pray for God’s leadership “away from temptation” or to say it another way “not into temptation”!

Now comes the really helpful part of the reading for me.  Not only do I need help “not succumbing to temptation” I need help “listening” for the way God is leading.  It seems to be a given for Jesus, as He teaches us to pray, that “Our Father in heaven does indeed LEAD and desires to be asked to do so!”  That is really good news!    I do not have to be a rudderless ship tossed to and fro.  I can pray to be led away from the temptations that so misdirect me!  Again, that is really good news.

Let me put it another way.  See if this resonates with you in any way! Maybe praying this petition creates kind of a “safety zone” within which I can listen and receive His leading.  It is a “not into temptation” safety zone for my mind and heart to listen and receive all God has for me!  Jesus is teaching me to pray for and trust God will provide a “not into temptation” safety zone where my heart can relax, put down its guard and be open to the leading of His Holy Spirit!  This might sound a little confusing but I really think there is some real power in this petition as we seek to understand the depths of what Jesus is teaching us to pray.

Finally, when I think about the people I am trying to pray for daily – I so want this for them.  As I pray “lead us (notice the plural) not into temptation”- Am I not asking God to construct a “no temptation allowed” safety zone around their heart where they can more effectively discover God’s leading in their lives and His intense love for them?  Am I not asking for God to lead “us” (me and the persons I am praying for) to a “not temptation place” for our hearts minds and spirits to experience Him?  I truly, truly want that for the people I am praying for.  I want that for my family and all of you reading this. Our Father is bigger than the temptations we face and He can lead us away from them.

Awesome! Awesome!

-delton

Welcome to Day 26 - "Forgive us...as we forgive..."

It’s amazing how God works.... He took me on a journey this week that led up to a new revelation for me regarding the power of forgiveness.  His timing is so cool considering my blog topic this week is on forgiveness!  Here’s the journey: Last Saturday, I flipped on the TV in the early morning and CBN (Christian Broadcasting Network) was on.  They had a story on the show about a girl who had suffered abuse up until she was 17 years old.  She was invited to church by a friend, went, and was transformed by the forgiveness and love of Jesus.  Her comments at the end of her testimony touched my heart and reminded me of the power that comes when we accept God’s forgiveness and when we forgive those who have hurt us.  She said that you have to let the love of God come in and heal your heart.  She said the key is forgiveness and you can’t allow what others have done to you to keep  you from what God has purposed for your life.  She said there is liberation in forgiveness!  Devries says, “The prayer for forgiveness is for reconciliation with God and with each other.  It’s a prayer for love.”  This girl needed love in a big way.  She had been mistreated and overlooked her entire life before she met the Lord.  She was looking for love, for a Father, for reconciliation – so she could let go of the pain and shame – and God was there for her.   She received liberation and freedom and her life became whole and purposeful.  Imagine what direction her life would  have taken without God’s love and forgiveness and without her forgiveness of those who abused her.  Her testimony is amazing, so I am including the link here for you to watch! http://www.cbn.com/media/player/index.aspx?s=/mp4/JTS27v2_WS

On Monday, I had a friend text me and tell me she was in a very dark place in her life and needed prayer.  This friend had experienced some similar abuse situations to the girl on CBN.  But she was having trouble forgiving those who had hurt her... and felt shame from her abuse, so was having trouble receiving forgiveness from God.   I prayed for her and I tried to speak truth to her about the power of forgiveness and the freedom that comes from receiving God’s love and forgiveness, but she was having trouble getting past the tormenting memories and shame.  My words weren’t enough and she just couldn’t see or understand the power of that reconciliation.

On Wednesday in our staff meeting, there was also some conversation about forgiveness.   God brought this scripture up during our discussion and it was so powerful for me.   It’s  2 Corinthians 5: 17-20. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!  All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.  We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.  We implore you on Christ’s behalf:  Be reconciled to God.   As I read this scripture, what really spoke to me and brought me to tears was that we are ambassadors for God and He makes His appeal through us.  He wants to use us to impart forgiveness into people’s lives ( like my friend) who can’t seem to receive or give forgiveness on their own because of that “dark place” they are in.  You see, I was wondering how my friend would ever understand the power and healing of forgiveness if my words were just words to her.  But as an ambassador for Christ, I have the authority in Jesus’ name, to look in her eyes, and speak boldly to her that she is forgiven in the name of Jesus!  Not just my words telling her, but the ministry of the Holy Spirit speaking through me to her and imparting forgiveness to her.   This is so empowering for me... I don’t have to feel helpless to convey the “message” of forgiveness, but can actually be an instrument of God to “give His forgiveness”  to my friend through His Presence and power at work through me.

This takes praying for my neighbors and my friends to a whole new level.  God has given me the authority in His name to pray for reconciliation in homes around me... to pray that forgiveness happens... and to speak it to my neighbors when God opens that door.   Not just praying over the homes, but actually praying INTO those homes and situations where the healing power of forgiveness is needed.

Lord, I want to speak your forgiveness into the life of my friend.  By your authority and in the name of Jesus, please give me the opportunity to do this and prepare the heart of my friend to receive the transforming power and the healing power of your love and forgiveness.  I am humbled to be an ambassador for you Lord.  I am humbled that you would use me to be a conduit for your grace and forgiveness in someone’s life.  Forgive me Lord... and thank you for your forgiveness and love and sacrifice.  Amen

How did this devotion move you today?  Did God reveal anything new to you like He did to me?  I would love to hear it!

Denise

June 20, 2012 Why Pray? Day 25 – “Give Us Today Our Daily Bread”

Please read Day 25 in Why Pray,  “Give Us Today Our Daily Bread.” In today’s reading, Devries shares many wonderful examples of how we are not to worry – and of how time and time again God provides.  He asks us to read Philippians 4:10-20.  It talks about how Paul had learned to be content no matter if he had plenty or if he was in need. Today’s  focus  verse is, “And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Matthew 6:34 then came to my mind - “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

The Message version says,  “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow.  God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

“What are You wanting to talk to me about today, God?”  I think He is saying, “Take time to Remember how I have provided for My people since the beginning of time, and take time to Remember how I have provided specifically for you, too.  Remember and Tell others.”

So, I started to remember some of the ways in the Bible of how God provided just what His people needed at just the right time.  In fact, He seems many times to be the “Last Minute Provider.”

I thought about the story in Exodus 14.  God had already delivered His people from Pharaoh.  But Pharaoh changed his mind, took over 600 chariots and all of his army and set out to re-capture the Israelites.  At the last minute, God parted the waters of the sea; His people safely crossed; then, with Pharaoh’s army in hot pursuit, God closed up the waters and drown Pharaoh and all his men!  I would say He provided just what they needed on that day!  I don’t know if He ever repeated this miraculous feat again – but on that day – that’s how He met all their needs!  “And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”

Just two chapters later the people seemed to forget how God miraculously saved them and started to complain that they had nothing to eat – that they would be better off if they were back in Egypt!  So, Exodus 16 recounts how God graciously gives His grumbling people Quail to eat at night and Manna in the morning to gather for the day.  The Lord commanded, “Each one is to gather as much as he needs.  No one is to keep any of it until morning.”  However, some of them paid no attention and kept part of it until morning, and it stank and was full of maggots!  On the 6^th day, they were to gather twice as much since the next day was the Sabbath.  When they saved it on this day, it did not stink and there were no maggots.  Those who did not gather twice the amount on the 6^th day – got up the next morning only to find no Manna.  Again – a beautiful example of how God provided just what they needed – on the day that they needed it. He seemed to be teaching them - "Trust Me - I will take care of you every single day - I will give you just what you need."   “And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”

Next, I think God is asking me to Remember and Tell how He has provided for me – Dawn Weiser. I want to share with you just one amazing story of when God met all our needs --  not to bring any glory or specialness to myself – but to give Him all the Glory as our magnificent Provider!

When we left for the Seminary, Rachel was 2 months old.  It came time to go to the doctor for her first illness, and money was very tight.  The doctor said to buy Children’s Tylenol and Pedialyte.  I remember that we worried about this because medicine was expensive.  As new parents, we didn't know if we had to use "real" Tylenol and "real" Pedialyte or if it was o.k. to use generics.  I don’t recall all of the tiny details of what happened next, but what I do remember is this:  that same day a sack of groceries appeared on our doorstep.   Tucked within the groceries was some baby formula, Children’s Tylenol, and Pedialyte!  No kidding! Not generic pain reliever or generic electrolytes, but Children's Tylenol and Pedialyte!!!   Come to find out, there was a woman who’s job was to pull medicines that were nearing the expiration date off the shelves at the store.  Instead of throwing them away, she would give them to Seminary families to help them out.  I don’t know how she knew who we were – I don’t know how she knew where we lived -  I don’t know how she knew that Rachel was sick - I don’t know how she knew we were told to specifically get Children’s Tylenol and Pedialyte. For all I know – she didn’t know a thing – perhaps the sack was full of random items as far as she was concerned!  But my Heavenly Father knew!   “And my God will meet all your needs (even Tylenol and Pedialyte)  according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”   “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow.  God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

The Author asks us to share some of our own experiences we have had in God’s miraculous provision of daily needs.  It would be really good to take some time and do just that on the Blog today!  Maybe you have not yet commented on the Blog – maybe today is the day! When we tell what God has done – it gives all the glory to God!

So I am going to ask you to please Remember and Tell.  Perhaps ask the Holy Spirit to stir up  memories and bring to mind the ways in which “God has met all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”  Maybe you can share one of your favorite accounts in the Bible where God provided!  Maybe you can share a personal story of God providing for you!

Today’s Questions to ponder are excellent.  The questions start with ourselves – but then move on to applying the same questions to our neighbors…

What are my real needs as I face this new day?

What are the real needs of the neighbors for whom I’m praying?

For whom am I to care today, Jesus?

How am I to care for that person?

In closing – I came upon the following quote from Frances Ridley Havergal (1836-1879).  It made me stop and realize that beginning with Adam and Eve all the way through history to June 20, 2012, God has been the wonderful “Provider” for all of our needs.  Even in the 1800’s Francis Ridley Havergal apparently learned how to trust in this same Almighty God to provide, as she writes….

“Begin at once; before you venture away from this quiet moment, ask your King to take you wholly into His service, and place all the hours of this day quite simply at His disposal, and ask Him to make and keep you ready to do just exactly what He appoints.  Never mind about tomorrow; one day at a time is enough.  Try it today and see if it is not a day of strange, almost curious peace, so sweet that you will be only too thankful when tomorrow comes to ask Him to take it also!”

 -dawn

Why Pray? Day 24 – “Your Will Be Done on Earth as it is in Heaven”

Please begin with prayer for an open heart, before you read Day 24.  I had to remind myself of that this morning, because it’s so easy just to start reading! There were 3 things that struck my heart from Day 24.  It probably won’t be a well-connected blog, but I wanted to comment on each.

1. Devries begins by stating that ‘the 3^rd great need in every home is unity.’  I think the biggest contributor to marriages breaking apart is selfishness.  Each person puts their own preferences first and lives for themselves, without regard for their spouse.  If we honestly reflect on how our own desires have served us in life we will see a long pathway of pain and mistakes.  In coming under the will of our Father, this is the uniting factor in a marriage.  In our home, the goal is it not to be Liz or Mike’s will, but God’s will.  If we are both seeking Him and His desires, we cannot simultaneously seek our own desires.  I know it’s easier said than done, but this is the trajectory we should all strive to be on.  Humility is opposed to selfishness, but this is a key to a strong marriage---putting others before you by surrendering to our Father.  So we pray for our home and the homes around us and seek to disciple people to seek God’s will, not our own.  If you are not married, seeking God’s will, not your own applies in every facet of life---not just marriage!  (Insert friend/co-worker/family member where spouse is written.)

I don’t think that God’s will is a rigidly defined plan (there may be specifics though---Jonah, Saul/Paul, etc.), but more of a renewed heart that walks with Him.  Galatians 5 talks about the tension between the life guided by the Spirit and the life controlled by the flesh.  When we are under His will, we are being lead more and more by His Spirit and less and less by our flesh.  It’s not a one-time meeting with God where He downloads His will in manual form, but a continual seeking Him through word, prayer, and community, in which He guides us through decisions, thoughts and actions.

1. Devries continues and speaks of us needing to be obedient to the 1^st and 2^nd Commandments and the pervasive issue of idols in our culture.  I heard one speaker say that ‘the human heart is an idol factory!’  An idol is anything that we elevate to a position of importance or authority that only God can fulfill.  There is a constant tension between our culture and faith with regard to this and our homes are evidence of that.  Our physical home, our possessions, our spouse, our kids, our status, etc. can become idols.  The problem is that those things cannot fill the need for intimacy with God, through Christ, so we become frustrated, angry, and then seek something else that offers a glimmer of hope to make us feel better.  We must recognize the idols, repent of them, and not allow these to consume our hearts.  Additionally, as Devries says, praying against these in our homes, neighborhoods and communities.
2. Finally, he says that another form of idolatry is fear---that’s a profound statement!  I think we feel entitled to stress out, worry, and be afraid of what’s coming.  Some of us actually thrive and feel lost if we don’t have stress/fear driving our days.  If we step back though---who is God in a situation of our fear??  We are!!  There is no trust in fear, because we fail to see God and His provision and direction in a situation.  Philippians 4:6-7 says, ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’  Those verses have a command not to be anxious, a step of faith and action of prayer, and a promise of receiving peace.  The biggest thing we need to do when we are afraid is move beyond our small, obscured perspective and seek the Creator of the universe.  We then act by faith and trust in Him and not our own abilities!

I would love to hear your reaction to the reading and thoughts above.  How united is your home?  (Be careful---this is a trap to point the ‘wrong’ out in your spouse---we must begin with our self and see if we are being selfish!!)  Do you seek God when facing disunity or dig your heels in and fight with your spouse?  What idols are in your home?  Community?  Have you seen fear as an idol and do you thrive on fear/stress?  Read through Philippians 4:4-7 to close.

mike

Why Pray? Day 23 - "Your Kingdom Come"

Hello - It's good to be home! It was a wonderful vacation and great connection time with family. But I did also miss connecting with you! Let's take a look at Day 23 together - "Your Kingdom Come". If you haven't had a chance to read Day 23, please do so - just as Delton shared in his blog yesterday, I'm also very excited to see the Lord's Prayer with new eyes. It's challenging, humbling, and amazing to see where the Holy Spirit leads!

In Why Pray? for today, Mr. DeVries shares with us a vision of what God's Kingdom coming would be like....I can almost hear the loud clang and clash, and feel the immense energy wave created as the kingdom of this world collides with God's Kingdom. The change is instantaneous and immense. Wow!

I found myself dwelling for a while on this collision point - what happens before it? Are the changes really that immediate? What else happens - what about the other lives, the collateral - surrounding the colliding kingdoms?

Today's Scripture is from Luke 19:1-9, and it really shaped and molded some of my questions and thoughts: "Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, 'Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.' So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, 'He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.' But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, 'Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.' Jesus said to him, 'Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.'"

Zacchaeus' worldly kingdom had been built on the coattails of Rome and all it's political excess and pagan, self-centered worship. This worldly kingdom collided with God's Kingdom when Jesus came over for dinner. Zacchaeus experienced the overwhelming victory that takes place when the Kingdom of God comes. He couldn't help but immediately respond -- he was instantly changed and no longer the same.

But as I considered this, I also couldn't help but think of the ones observing all that is taking place between Zacchaeus and Jesus.

Muttering under their breath, I'm sure the bystanders - the collateral in the collision of kingdoms - took with a grain of salt the declaration that the 'sinner' Zacchaeus made about donating his money and repaying any individuals he had cheated. They most likely held out for proof. And many probably never believed that such a change could happen to a base tax collector.

I imagine that, after Zacchaeus’ transformation, he initially faced many difficulties in his relationships with those around him. People don’t really like change, especially change that can’t be explained - they can’t fit into their  'faith boxes'. When “Your Kingdom Come” collisions happen, faith boxes get blown to smithereens and the collateral people can have a hard time dealing with the resulting changes.

But I also hold out hope that there were those that witnessed Zacchaeus’ life transformation and that they were also changed - that they experienced “Your Kingdom Come” collisions for themselves.

I found myself thinking back to when my journey with Point of Grace first began. I grew up Christian and I've really never known life without a faith that Jesus loves me enough to have died for my sins and that it is solely through His grace alone that I'm now sinless in his His eyes. But knowing it, and...KNOWING it are two very different things, I came to find out.

My husband and I took an Alpha course not long after we began attending Point of Grace. For us, the Alpha course was a terrific tool that ultimately gave us the freedom to fully own and experience our faith in Christ. It also gave us a way to develop a relationship with the Holy Spirit, something that we didn't have or acknowledge before. God's Kingdom came strongly into our lives in a way that it hadn't previously. This change was immediate for us - it was like, we suddenly had new connection, new understanding, new relationship - almost like we couldn't remember NOT having it before.

I remember sharing our experiences with my parents - that was difficult. It was different than what they knew in their faith walk. I was talking about things they hadn’t really experienced. It didn’t fit into their box of what faith should be, and we got to a point that we couldn’t even discuss it anymore. Six years ago, I started praying for them - I prayed for a faith for them that was built on connection and relationship with Christ and not just the head knowledge of grace and salvation. I prayed that they could maybe even attend an Alpha course, that maybe that was a tool that could help them in their journey.

Over time our conversations on the topic of faith became easier. I could share with them things we experienced, what we saw happen in the lives of others around us, and how the Holy Spirit moved in our own family. Maybe my parents also started to see fruits from my family’s relationship with Christ growing - who knows?

Four years ago, my parents moved away from the area. Somewhere in there I stopped praying for them to attend an Alpha course, but our faith conversations continued and I kept praying for them to have a renewed, vibrant relationship with Christ.

Last year, a “Your Kingdom Come” collision happened for them in a way that ultimately led to them attending an Alpha course through Point of Grace via Skype. My parents have since led two Alpha courses in their hometown, and are laying the groundwork for two more courses to be held concurrently this fall. They are truly acting out of a relationship with Christ and a calling in their faith that they hadn’t known before now.

They were the collateral to the clash and clang in my life when one of our “Your Kingdom Come” collisions happened 6 years ago. It wasn’t pretty - at first. But with continued prayer, God’s Kingdom Came for them as well.

And they also have collateral - there are those whose lives are now also experiencing “Your Kingdom Come” moments just as strongly as my parents did. But then there are others that can’t understand the change that has taken place in my parents’ lives and they can’t fit it into their faith boxes. It is causing difficulties in those relationships.

So we continue to pray for “Your Kingdom Come”.....

Lisa

What would it look like to have “Your Kingdom Come” into your life right now? How about in the lives of those you are praying for?

Welcome to Day 22 - "Hallowed Be Your Name"

Welcome to Day 22 of Why Pray? After reading the chapter for today “Hallowed Be Your Name”, I encourage you to spend a few minutes with a portion of Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. ² He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, ³ he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. ⁴ Even though I walk through the darkest valley I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

This “Why Pray?” journey has done it again!  It has taken something very familiar to me and repositioned it in my heart and mind in a new, refreshing and challenging way!  What use to be pretty much just about “me” is now about a world of other people God is using “me” to impact!

Let me explain!

Day 22 begins week four with the heading “How Should We Pray?”!  We enter somewhat familiar territory for this ‘how to’ lesson – the Lord’s Prayer - and more specifically today the first petition of the prayer, “Hallowed Be Thy Name”!  A tour through the Lord’s Prayer is not unfamiliar territory for me – but the “way” I am being encouraged to look at it is!  I am being encouraged to pray the Lord’s Prayer not only for myself and my family (that’s familiar) but to use it to pray for the deepest needs of people far from God for whom He has led me to pray.  He is putting a laser guidance system on my praying!

As I write this I am thinking specifically of one of the people that God has led me to pray for during this “Why Pray?” journey!  This person has experienced a great deal of loss, frustration and “life has not turned out so well” reality recently.  As I think about it… I am realizing that she desperately needs to “hallow God’s name” – she desperately needs to by faith receive the realness of God that all His names reveal.  She desperately needs to know and surrender to God  as Savior, Lord, Good Shepherd, Prince of Peace etc. – this is exactly what she needs and exactly what I am now finding myself praying for her as I work through this blog. Do you see? God is taking my praying for this person to a whole new level way beyond “…please bless so and so!”

Wow!  It seems this week’s journey may be through familiar territory – the Lord’s Prayer – with a whole new set of lenses!  This week I get to explore praying at a whole new level –a “laser guidance system” level - for the people He has called me to pray for who do not know Him and are not living in relationship with Him.  This is good really good for me!  God is shifting my focus strategically outward – to pray for those far from Him practically and specifically according to their deepest needs!

The journey continues and keeps getting deeper and richer!

delton

Welcome to Day 21 – By Multiplication, Not Addition

Please read Day 21 in “Why Pray?” then come on back and let’s discuss! Well, folks, it seems today is my day for raw honesty.  I find myself really struggling with the stories in the book today.  They just seem too…”perfect”.  I’m pretty sure that isn’t going to be a popular statement, but it is honest.  Thankfully, in my struggles today, Pastor has been very patient with me and reminded me that DeVries had to keep each chapter very concise, therefore he had to get a lot of “bang for his writing buck.”

The story of the earthquake that loosed the chains on Paul and Silas in Acts 16: 25-28, seems like one of those “too perfect” stories:

     “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.  Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken.  At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.  The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped.  But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself!  We are all here!”

I have no trouble seeing that as a testimony to God’s power and willingness to come to His people’s rescue when they pray.  Why then do I see today’s “Why Pray?” stories differently??  I think I fall into the trap of fear set by the Enemy.  You know, the one that says, “God did miracles then (in Biblical times) but he won’t do them now because we don’t need them today.”  I really struggle with that lie sometimes.  Thing is, that ugly lie leaves no room for God’s Will in this world.  Who am I to hamstring God with my unbelief??  God tells me to pray…to be obedient when it’s all I can do…so pray I will.  I will do what only I can do.  I will trust God to do what only God can do.

Jennifer

Day 20 - “Don’t Move Around From House to House”

This is delton! We are at the half-way point!  Awesome, Awesome, Awesome! If you haven’t read Day 20 in “Why Pray?” do so now - it is an interesting read!

It flows from a section of Luke 10, “After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to go. ²  And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. ³ Go your way; behold, I am sending you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. ⁴  Carry no moneybag, no knapsack, no sandals, and greet no one on the road. ⁵ Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ ⁶ And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you. ⁷ And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house. ⁸ Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you. ⁹ Heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you”

So apparently Jesus didn’t want His missionaries getting meals from all over town – looking for the tastiest apple pie – but rather settling in at the home of “peace” and basing operations in the town from there.  I also find it interesting that He didn’t want them talking with people along the road but rather, I assume, being about the business of getting to the next town to find these homes and establishing these bases of missionary operation.  Evidently this basic strategy is what John Devries has witnessed in India.

When I was reading this chapter I was reminded of the stories and testimonies I heard while making a trip to India in 2011.  They were versions of this kind of strategy at work.  A church planter goes into a village, contacts each home with an offer to pray for them, waits to see how God moves in response to those prayers, when a family begins to respond favorably to what God is doing (many times it is a healing in the home) the planter shares Jesus, nurtures a relationship with that family and begins to influence the village from that home base.

How would that work in the US? Austin? Pflugerville, Round Rock, Hutto?                    Intriguing?

First, I am humbled and moved by the thought that my family and home is a place that the presence of God radiates from casting light on my whole neighborhood!  I truly want God to consider my home and family as a ‘base of missionary operation’ for His Spirit to reach my neighborhood.

Secondly, I am jazzed by the idea of your homes being “bases of missionary operation” where the light of Christ radiates to bless your neighbors and people in your circles of influence!

Thirdly, What a cool strategy for our church to move on - establishing home bases of the presence of God in subdivisions, city blocks and neighborhoods all over Greater Austin.

So these are some of my thoughts, inspirations and aspirations!   Please share yours!  What is God doing with you on this journey?  What do you think He is doing with Point of Grace though this journey?

Welcome to Day 19 - Praying, Caring, and Sharing

Read today’s devotion and see how God’s amazing transforming power can change a Brahmin community in India! I asked God to speak to me through this devotion today.  I asked Him to reveal what He wanted to touch me with.  I asked Him to give me His lenses to look through and His heart for the message that was meant for me.  I have a tendency when I’m doing these blogs to want to blog something that may help everyone else... you know, like I’m writing a Bible study or something.   But that is certainly something I’m not gifted at, nor comfortable with!  And because of it, I’ve felt pressure to come up with “something good” on my days to blog.  So today, I asked that He would show me what I am to learn from this without the pressure of it being what others needed to hear.  I think I will enjoy blogging more if I can just be me.  My worry is that my sharing will be too simple – or not deep enough -  but I’m really going to try to just share my heart on this one.  Simple, but real.  And I hope if my thoughts are all over the place – that somehow the Holy Spirit will bring it together in your heart and trigger something that God may be saying to you as well...

So here goes...  my first word that I couldn’t get past was “Untouchables”.   For some reason – I read it and I started crying.  What’s up with that?  I’m an “includer” by nature, so the thought of someone being left out or called a name or being an outcast hurts me.  So the caste system in India really got my attention.  Then I decided to go back and circle all the words in this devotion and story that really grabbed my heart and stood out to me.  Here’s the list of words/phrases in the order that I circled them:

Boundaries Out-caste Untouchables Singing Miracles Healing Untouchables told them about Jesus Became followers New Life Answer to those Prayers 200 Brahmin converts

I notice that my list begins with ugly words like boundaries (the kind that separate people), out-caste and untouchables... but then the beautiful words come like singing and miracles and answered prayers and converts!  God has no boundaries when it comes to loving people and using people.  He loves the untouchables and he can use them powerfully like He did in today’s story.  But the depth of the love that the untouchables had for the upper class was what was most beautiful to me.  God gave them a burden and love so great that they prayed for their salvation.  And even though they were considered less than the upper class and mistreated, they prayed, worshiped and sang for hours in their gatherings each night.

Do I have a trust in Jesus that leads me to an attitude of gratitude and surrender like that – no matter what my circumstances?  Do I worship and sing even when I’m being mistreated or when my life is in turmoil?  Do I see myself as special and important to God even when someone else says I’m not or makes me feel that way?  Am I willing to sacrifice time and energy praying for people that hurt me, or dislike me...and are far from God?   It’s hard to be honest here, but I have to say no to most of those questions because I’m so susceptible to “feelings”.  I get my feelings hurt or feel like an outcast or get too focused on circumstances that aren’t going my way... and the last thing I want to do is pray, worship, or share the gospel with those who hurt me!   I can only imagine what God could do if I surrendered my “feelings” to Him and just trusted Him like the untouchables did.   Then they went beyond prayer and were actually available to share Jesus with the Brahmin family and challenged them to go share Jesus as well.    That’s amazing surrender and love... and I want that!  Look what God did with their prayers and sacrifice... over 200 people came to know Jesus!

If we open our hearts to the people around us in our neighborhoods and communities and are really willing to see beyond the issues we have with them, or the pain they’ve caused us – imagine what God will do with our heart-felt prayers and love for them.  And if we have to ask God to help us love them... then lets ask!  Like Devries says, when we make our homes  Homes Of Prayer Every day, we open our doors to homes everywhere.. and we can trust that God is working!

For another story about being mistreated, praying, praising, and converts.....Read Acts 16:22-34!   It will remind you of the Untouchables!

Jesus, I want to be like the untouchables.  I want a heart for those who don’t have You in their lives.   Humble me Lord, so I can see people through your eyes.  Help me to be thankful and content in all circumstances because of the joy that comes from You, so I’m not focused on myself, but on those who need you desperately in their lives.  Give me a heart like your heart and a love beyond reason.  I trust You Lord and love You... and surrender to You now.  Amen.

Thanks for letting me share...I would love to hear your thoughts...

Denise

Welcome to Day 18 - "Random Acts of Kindness"

Please read Day 18 - “Random Acts of Kindness” in the Why Pray? Book. John DeVries writes, “The light of God’s love on a home is rather faint if all we do is pray…. In India the evangelists we train always begin by forming a prayer team or network, saturating the target area with prayer. But then they also reach out in acts of caring.”

We have been asked to make a list of families to pray for.  How is your list coming? Now we are being asked to go a step further for those on our list. We are to ask the Holy Spirit for insight of how to go beyond simply praying; but, to express our care for them with acts of love and kindness.

Oh Boy! I can’t wait to share with you what God has been up to with one of the families on my list! A few weeks ago, the School Counselor from one of the local high schools contacted Point of Grace to share about a family in great need. The Pastor took our staff to visit with the family two weeks ago. After that visit, I could not get them out of my mind and heart. Their needs were overwhelming to me – and were too great to be “solved” by just a few people at PoG.

The very next morning‘s Devotion was Day 5 - “Prayer is Being the Friend in the Middle” on page 43 of Why Pray? It was such beautiful timing from God. Yes – the needs of that family were indeed overwhelming! Our family did not personally have financial resources to help in any significant way. But, the devotion that day talked about the man in the Bible who relentlessly knocked on his friend’s door in the middle of the night asking him for a loaf of bread to feed to his unexpected visitor. Please go back and read the story for yourself.

This is too hard. How can we help? The situation was too big! “God, what are you saying?” I believe He was teaching me that I could be “A friend in the Middle.” I think He was saying, “Get up! Go knock on your friend’s doors and ask them to help! And if they don’t answer – keep knocking!”

I began telling my family and friends about this family and immediately they yearned to help. Not only did they want to help – but they began telling their relatives and their friends about this family in need – and now they want to help, too!

We prayed to God for ideas of how to help. We took the mom out for coffee – to just be her friend and ask her for ways we could make a difference. We listened. We laughed. And a wonderful relationship is blossoming.

Fast forward to today’s entry – “Random Acts of Kindness” –it is full of encouragement from the author to go beyond simply praying to actively caring. This is the part that I am so excited to share with you! I have been the “Friend in the Middle” so far in this story. But my friends ------ they have been very busy going beyond prayer to ACTs of kindness.

The family was given 4 movie tickets as a birthday gift for one of the children. But this is a family of 7. Who would get to go and who would be left at home? My friend’s mother heard the story and gave the family 3 more tickets so that they can go see the movie together as a family!

One woman is asking her friends for donations to give this family summer passes to the local swimming pool so that they can get some relief from the summer heat.

One of the biggest strains on the family is gas money to get to work. My friend told her husband the story and he has been beside himself with how to help them out in a significant way. The other night he walked in the room and declared that the hairs were standing up on his neck – that God was giving him an answer – to sell a gold necklace that they had been hanging onto for years– and to use the money for Gasoline Gift Cards for the family!  He took the necklace to 4 or 5 buyers trying to find the best price. They tried one more jeweler to see if they could get a better deal. The buyer gave them a lower bid. “The other Buyers offered us more.” He hesitated. And then he reluctantly said he would match it. “Wait until I tell you what the money is going to be used for!” She told him the story. Guess what? He not only matched the other dealer’s offers – but gave her $30 more!

I am so very proud of my friends. They heard the story. They prayed for God’s light to shine upon this family. They prayed for God to help them help this family. And they put action to their prayers. And this is all happening on the very same day as this Entry in the Why Pray Book of Random Acts of Kindness. Coincidence? No Way. It is all God. And I believe it is all in His perfect timing as He patiently teaches us a deeper understanding of prayer throughout this journey we are on together.

The Scripture Reading for today is Matthew 18:18-20. “I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in My name, there am I with them.”  I totally did not understand what this meant or how it tied in to today’s entry.

The Message version says, “Take this most seriously: A yes on earth is yes in heaven; a no on earth is no in heaven. What you say to one another is eternal. I mean this. When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, My Father in heaven goes into action. And when two or three of you are together because of Me, you can be sure that I’ll be there.”      “What are You saying to me, God?”

Why is this Scripture coupled with this Devotion? A long time passed. I read it over and over. The story I wanted to share with you was indeed very exciting about people coming together and praying for a family in need – and then acting upon it. But I think there is more that God is trying to teach me tonight. As I look at that Scripture again I see that it says, “when His people come together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, My Father in heaven goes into action.” The really exciting part of this story then – is NOT what my friends did – but how our Father in heaven went into action for that family! I believe it was our Father in heaven that persuaded the jeweler to give more than all the other bids – don’t you?

“Is that what You are trying to show me tonight, Father? That when we get together on anything at all on earth – like a family or neighborhood in need – we can be sure that You will be there? The miracle is not in how we come together to help others – but how YOU spring into action – and provide more than we dared to hope for or even imagine?"

How about you?

How have you been on the receiving end of people not just praying for you – but caring for you?

What random acts of kindness have you been a part of?

How have you witnessed the Father leaping into action?

-dawn

Why Pray? Day 17 -- Praise is the Doorway into Prayer

Awesome. My King. Beautiful. Lord of All Creation. Comforting. Lover of My Words and Praise. Giver of Amazing Gifts.

As I'm reading today's reading, I'm looking at the view you see above. My family and I are somewhere in the Ozarks and have just finished watching/listening to a fantastic thunderstorm while three generations of Josts played Mexican Train. So it's not too hard to Praise God in this moment. It's been a lovely afternoon.

My Redeemer. Patient. Source of Never Ending Forgiveness. Endless Grace. Teacher.

But it wasn't so easy earlier today. Or last night. Or in all the days since I found out this trip was pretty much planned without my input. It's been hard to be grateful, thankful, and anything but selfish, honestly.

The Ultimate Sacrifice. The Ultimate Gift. The Beginning and The End. (and the Glory of Everything in Between)

So when I read today's reading, I really thought I was going to have to text Delton to say that I couldn't write this blog entry. I'm sure I could have given him a great reason and he would have understood and had taken care of everything of. I am on vacation, after all. But my reason wasn't a good one - it was because I didn't want to let go of my control over my selfish mindset, in order to shift my mind to recognize God's glory and praise Him. See, the two just can't exist in the same place at the same time -- self-focus and adoring praise.

Holy, Holy, Holy. Son of God Almighty. Lord of Heaven and Earth.

So what changed? First, my husband prayed for me. Having someone else step in to pray, when I couldn't, was huge. The Holy Spirit, through my husband, loved me. He knew I was struggling, yet loved me right there where I was. Second, as a lover of words, I went back to an elemental activity of simply listing the names of God. I thought back to the many Alpha retreats I have attended and recalled listening to the A-Z list of names that voices around me would call out in the dark as we sat around the campfires.

Abba Father. Beyond Comprehension. Caring. Devoted. Everlasting. Friend. God.

Finally, rather than write this entry right away, I went upstairs to join the rest of the family. I didn't realize it yet, but just initializing my train of thought into praise already had begun pushing out the selfishness. I was actually fully present in the conversations and games. I wanted to get to know my young niece and nephew that I've only seen maybe 3 times in their young lives. I laughed. (I didn't want to laugh on this trip.)

Which is why I could say at the beginning of this blog entry that it wasn't too hard to praise God now.

Friends, I am not at all proud of this story. I'm sharing this and all my yuckiness with you, because if praise is the doorway to prayer and the two affected ME this profoundly in just this day alone -- how much more so will it affect the neighborhoods around me - around us. For one thing, I WAS NOT BEING LIGHT in the relationships around me, which left darkness to have a strong foothold in us and between us. I WAS NOT BEING SALT and adding in God's freshness and flavor to the atmosphere, but was really just ensuring that we all simply endured this trip and left without anything being made better.

But once I began praising and thanking my God for all He has done, all He has given, all that He Is, my whole outlook has changed - I have to say it is going to be fun now, and I pray that I will leave a different lasting impact than I was leaving before in these relationships.

And I'm not in charge anymore!

ALLELUIA!

“This, then, is how you should pray:“ ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’ (Matthew 6:9-13 NIV84)

Before you pray today - begin by listing the glorious names of God. I've listed some of the ones that came to mind for me - use them as a start, if you need it. Then, in the midst of that praise, ask God to lead you to a neighborhood or area around you. Pray for them. And keep praising.

I would love to hear if this has affected you as much as it has affected me today!

- Lisa

Why Pray Day 16---Shining the spotlight of God’s love in the darkness

STOP!!!  Make sure you read and meditate on the Day 16 reading before you continue. The concept of prayer shining light in darkness is not a new one in ‘Why Pray’ and honestly, my wife and I have had discussions about struggling through the level of control that we have in getting God to act.  Don’t get me wrong---I firmly believe that prayer works, just struggle a little with the idea that ‘I call God’s attention to those people in a way that He would not attend if I had not prayed for them.’ (Day 7, pg. 55)  In reading that, I imagine a distant, aloof, forgetful God that ‘misplaced’ the Jones’ family until I brought them to His attention.  Oh, they were in the cul-de-sac the whole time---thanks for locating them mike!!

Sorry for the sarcasm and I know I am adding words to what the author stated, but this is where my mind went.  So, I have been wrestling with this for a week plus and it came back up again in Day 16.  I do love the empirical evidence the author gives on the Chicago housing project, mall, and the houses in the 80 and 80 example (Day 10)---hard to argue that!

In pondering the concept today, I was thinking of Ephesians 6:12, ‘For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.’  This verse helped things gel for me.  When I come on behalf of a family, neighborhood, business, school, etc., I am going to battle in the heavenly realms for them.  Jesus’ name has power in the heavenly realms and I believe His name helps push against the forces of darkness that have so blinded the family, neighborhood, etc.

2 Corinthians 4:4 came to mind while writing this…’The god (notice lower case---that’s Satan) of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.’  People are spiritually blind and going through life in the dark, because of the forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  The name of Jesus’, through prayer, begins to bring light into their lives and combat these forces.

So, I don’t think John D. is saying God is aloof or loses people or neighborhoods.  Maybe it was a semantic thing or just challenged my theological box, but I do agree that praying for families, neighborhoods, etc. does make an impact that would not be present without someone praying for them.

Last thought then I am out…when my wife and I were in the process of selling our condo and moving to Pville a couple years ago, we were intentional about praying for God to lead us to the specific area/house so we could make the biggest Kingdom impact and be used by Him.  We still pray for our neighbors and neighborhood on a fairly regular basis.  We have not seen revival yet, but do have some close friends that we would not have met and have walked with them through some really challenging times, which we believe was God lead.  We firmly believe that God lead us to this house/area and is using us here to bring Jesus’ name against the forces of darkness.  We will keep praying about our area and hopefully will be available to plant seeds and share the Gospel to those He brings before us!

We should think of ourselves on mission in whatever location we spend our time---no one else has the potential to reach those within our specific circle of influence!  It is up to each of us, within the body of Christ, to answer the call and be salt and light in our areas.  I challenge you to ask God to bring someone to mind to consistently come on their behalf in the spiritual realms.  Who is He challenging you to pray for?  Family?  Neighborhoods?  Businesses?  Schools?  Countries?  I would love to hear how this concept has honestly struck you and also challenge you (and me!) to consistently pray for someone or a group of people.

mike

Why Pray? Day 15 - The Foolishness of "Pluck and Plop" Evangelism

Welcome to Day 15! We begin a new week on this journey and a shift is occurring.  Just like when taking a road trip.  There are days when not much changes and then days when things really change quickly – the terrain, landscape, weather – etc.  I believe the advent of Week 3 beginning with Day 15 is just such a shift and I am oh – so excited!  This week’s theme gives us a hint,” Why Pray for Neighbors?”  Although Devries has hinted at this shift in several of the previous lessons,  it appears we are fully stepping into the school of “Prayer and Evangelism” – “Prayer and Kingdom Expansion”!

If you haven’t read Day 15 in the “Why Pray?” book – I suggest you do so now!  Then consider the following scripture taking special note of the highlighted verses!  It’s long so take your time with it!

Mark 5  They went across the lake to the region of the Gerasenes.   ² When Jesus got out of the boat, a man with an impure spirit came from the tombs to meet Him.  ³ This man lived in the tombs, and no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain. ⁴ For he had often been chained hand and foot, but he tore the chains apart and broke the irons on his feet. No one was strong enough to subdue him. ⁵ Night and day among the tombs and in the hills he would cry out and cut himself with stones. ⁶ When he saw Jesus from a distance, he ran and fell on his knees in front of Him. ⁷ He shouted at the top of his voice, “What do You want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In God’s name don’t torture me!” ⁸ For Jesus had said to him, “Come out of this man, you impure spirit!” ⁹ Then Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “My name is Legion,” he replied, “for we are many.” ¹⁰ And he begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area. ¹¹ A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. ¹² The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” ¹³ He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned. ¹⁴ Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened. ¹⁵ When they came to Jesus, they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons, sitting there, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. ¹⁶ Those who had seen it told the people what had happened to the demon-possessed man—and told about the pigs as well. ¹⁷ Then the people began to plead with Jesus to leave their region. ¹⁸ As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with Him. ¹⁹ Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you.” ²⁰ So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.

One of the places this scriptural story and the Day 15 reading converge is verses 18-20.  The guy wanted to follow Jesus – physically get in the boat with Him to be close to Him – and Jesus pointed him to a higher calling.  Jesus sent him to tell all of his family and friends what had happened to him and Who had done it!  He was to reenter all those relationships he had before he knew Jesus and see those relationships as his context to be a witness for Jesus.

This is an awesome strategy!  We are all placed in relationships, neighborhoods, and workplaces with divine accuracy!  I think Devries put it this way, “People are not merely isolated individuals to be won to Christ one at a time.  A person is always part of a social fabric.  A person has a home, relatives, friends, and neighbors, all who influence each other.”  And another place he writes, “The missionaries could not get beyond the concept of ‘winning individuals to Christ one at a time’.  They did not understand that God has placed us in neighborhoods.  They did not understand that when Jesus sent out the 72 disciples to spread the Gospel by finding persons of peace in each village, He was telling them to win neighborhoods by winning individuals and not removing them from their surroundings.  They were to see these individuals as doors to the homes…”

I love this evangelism – kingdom building strategy!  A cool thought has struck me that I have never entertained before and will spend some time contemplating this today!

When God brought me to faith in Jesus and poured life into my heart by His Spirit perhaps it was not just me He was considering.  Perhaps He was also considering the people who are included in my potential for being His witness and ambassador in the myriad of relationships I would have in my life.  Perhaps “I” am His strategy for reaching tens, hundreds, thousands maybe with the goodness and greatness of the good news of His kingdom.  I have always known I am supposed to be a witness but I never saw myself as someone like that healed demoniac who Jesus more or less commissions to reach that whole region!  I never entertained that when God considers me He does not just see “me” as precious and important but when He considers me He also sees the potential people I can reach for Him – in my own context and situation!

There are so many wonderful aspects of this reading and scripture story that may have grabbed your attention!  Please share!  Your input and conversations are rich and edifying!

How about the idea of our “potential” for Christ? How about the idea of each of us being God’s “Plan A Strategy” for reaching certain people? What did you think of the “Mr. Ditt” story?  What about if Jesus saw, when bringing “Mr. Ditt” to faith, not only him as valuable and important but simultaneously saw the 300,000 people that were in his “witness potential”!

Let’s keep praying for the five or so families we listed last week.  Maybe we are discovering why those particular people were brought to our hearts and mind?

This is exciting!

delton

Why Pray? Day 14 – The Example of the Early Church

Have you read Day 14 – The Example of the Early Church yet?  If you haven’t had a chance, please grab your book then come on back.  Thanks! Do you remember being a kid waiting for your birthday to come around?  I sure do!  It seemed to take forever – first the month…then the week…then finally the DAY arrived.  But, I had to wait until school was out for the day, wait for supper to get cooked, wait for the family to finish eating…wait, wait, WAIT, to get to the main attraction:  the gifts!

“On one occasion, while He was eating with them, He gave them this command:  ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard Me speak about.’” Acts 1:4

I do not like to wait.  I’m not good at it.  If I were a superhero I would likely be Impatient Girl.  So, I often run ahead as if God is going to follow me…because, clearly, I know where I’m going.  HA!  He patiently watches me as I try to speed through, impatient to “get to the gifts!”  He knows that waiting is itself a gift – a valuable opportunity for prayer, relationship, and growing.   Molding takes place in prayerful waiting that otherwise couldn’t happen.  If I’m too busy doing my own thing, when does God get to share the gifts He has for me?   I find myself really struggling with that!  He’s still God and I’m still not (thankfully!) so He can, in all reality, do anything He wants.  But Acts 1: 4 clearly tells us that what He wants is for us to wait and John Devries backs this up in an incredibly powerful way:

“In prayer, the disciples turned a key in the gates of heaven, and the Holy Spirit was poured out upon them. The Spirit did all that was promised.  He empowered Jesus’ followers with the resources of divine power and divine transformation, changing a bunch of cowards into fearless witnesses to the truth.  This ragtag bunch of poor fishermen and farmers who, like their Leader, had little earthly wealth, were recipients of the wealth of heaven, and out of them came a movement that swept the world.” Why Pray? Pg 92

Cowards.  Ragtag.  Poor.  They prayed.  Fearless.  Wealth of heaven.  Out of them came a movement that swept the world.  Hang on…what happened?  Two little words there that might get lost in between who the disciples were and who they became while they waited: They prayed.  God honored their prayerful patience with the promised Gift:

“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.  Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.  They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them.  All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” Acts 2:1-4

Does writing this blog post today mean I’m going to walk perfectly with Jesus in lock-step, praying and waiting as the patient handmaid I should be?  Doubtful – c’mon, it’s Impatient Girl writing this.  It does mean that my Father knows my impatient tendencies and will provide many opportunities to learn to wait on Him.  The waiting still won’t be easy.  I’ll still want to tear open the gifts God has set aside for me.  But, He promises the waiting will be worth it!

“But those who wait upon God get fresh strength.” Isaiah 40:31   The Message

What do you think?  Does impatience sometimes get the better of you, too?  I definitely do not have “waiting” figured out but I do have joy in the knowledge waiting produces patience and patience brings me closer to my Dad…and His gifts.

Blessings, Jennifer

Welcome to Day 13! "The Example of Christ"

Enjoy “The Example of Christ” in your Why Pray?  book, then consider the following scriptures! Luke 6 ¹² One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. ¹³ When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostle.

Hebrews 5 ⁷ During the days of Jesus’ life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.

Reading Day 13 in “Why Pray?” took me down a couple of thought paths – one of which I am not too proud of!  You see as I began reading and realized we were getting a review of Jesus’ need for prayer I began to shut down.  I have been down this road before – Jesus prayed before picking His disciples! – Jesus prayed before facing Satan! – Jesus prayed before going to the cross! I began to move to auto pilot as if traveling through the familiar territory of mind numbing sameness.  In fact, ( Again, let me emphasize, I am not proud of these thoughts) I was even beginning to get a little ticked at the author for relentlessly repeating this theme “Pray First?” and now bringing in Jesus’ lifestyle to support the mandate!  I was ready for some new insight or catchy illustration (which I have come to expect) and I just got stories! Stories of Jesus I have read before.

All these thoughts passed through my mind in a matter of seconds until crashing into another “voice”, “impression”, “conscience” whatever you want to call it saying to me, “You arrogant little man!  You want to be impressed and yet you are on the verge of missing the very encouragement your life cries out for!  You and those who think like you are probably why the Holy Spirit has directed John Devries to be so relentless in the call to Pray First – First – First!  You are the very guy, mr. weiser, that will so quickly leave the call to ‘pray first’ for the call to ‘figure it out’ or better yet the call to ‘just procrastinate’”!

Yes I felt like a little man – no, more like a little boy as the Holy Spirit gave me a reality check! So … … … I started over - reading the chapter again -seeking to practice what does not come naturally to me – humility! With this slightly altered lens I saw things differently.  I saw my Jesus, my fully God, Jesus, voluntarily walking the human path – the same path I walk.  Jesus, my fully human Jesus, not accessing His divine capability to get Him out of scrapes or to alleviate His own inconvenience or to be more efficient – No I saw my fully human Jesus access His Father’s will, provision, strength, wisdom, direction, etc. through prayer – the same means to the same resources that my Father has for me – prayer!  I am humbled and overwhelmed by my Jesus!  He so needed prayer because He, in the fullness of His human experience, desperately needed all His Father had for Him to face all His father planned for Him.

I so desperately need to access all my Father has for me to face all my Father  plans for me!  That is so cool! I am discovering that life is not so much me “making things happen” but rather me “discovering what God already has happening and me joyfully joining in”! Thanks John Devries for being relentless in calling us to pray and pray first!

How is the praying for the families on your list going!   I encourage you to spend some time “praying first” for whatever you face with an expectation of discovery!  Pray also for the families He has brought to your mind – focusing the spotlight of His love on them.

Thanks to all who have been commenting!  Your words are insightful, inspirational and thought provoking. I applaud your courage!  Let’s keep it up!  Please join in even if it’s your first time to comment! I can’t wait to see where the conversation takes us today!

-delton

Why Pray? Day 12 Pray First - The Father Commands It

Welcome to Thursdays Blog! Read   Psalm 2:7-12 & Exodus 17:8-13

Today’s devotion was full of challenges, wisdom and good nuggets to wrestle with.  If you haven’t read it yet – take the time to do it.  You’ll be glad you did!

I am realizing how many times I’ve forged ahead on things without even consulting God... without asking Him if He even wanted me to forge ahead!  Of course this has been our ongoing theme for this week – to PRAY FIRST... and it’s really hitting home.  There have also been times when I have prayed before hand, but haven’t stopped long enough to listen to what He’s saying.  It doesn’t do much good to ask and seek God’s heart if I’m too busy to hear what He has to say about it.   That’s just as bad as forging ahead without asking!   So I’m working on praying first and really listening and I’m asking God to teach me how to live in this every day.

I want a new perspective on how God wants me to pray.  I don’t want to be praying just because I’m supposed to pray... but out of a true love for Him and a desire to see His Kingdom come.  I love what John Devries  says about our motivation for missional praying: “Our basic drive to reach the world is not because humanity is lost, although it is.  Our drive arises out of love for Jesus and out of the knowledge that the nations of the world are His, not Satan’s.  Because we love Jesus and we are His agents appointed to claim the world for Him, we ask the Father on His behalf for the nations of the world.”  Is that as powerful for you as it is for me?  I’ve never thought of praying like this before.  I think what really excites me about praying in this way, is the authority we have as His agents to claim the world for Him!  He’s done the work, He is worthy, the nations belong to Him, and because we belong to Him – we are called to this... to fight for this... and to pray boldly for this!

The account in Exodus where Moses lifts his arms and staff in prayer so the battle being fought will be won, is powerful for me as well.  I constantly have to be reminded that prayer is divine work, prayer delivers, prayer is everything!  You see... I’m a “do-er”  and a  “take new ground”  kind of girl.  The forge ahead phrase I used above is definitely me... I would much rather be the Joshua in this story... on the battle field fighting... rather than Moses on the hill praying.  That’s just my natural bend.  It’s a perspective change for me to see prayer as the biggest and most important asset on the battle field.  But this is exactly what I’m learning and what God is teaching me through these PRAY FIRST devotions.  That’s why the statement by Devries about us being Jesus’ appointed agents in this world excites me.  It puts meat to prayer... it puts prayer on the battle field which puts me right in the middle of the action!  It’s given me a new perspective and excitement for how I look at prayer and the power that resides there! I've understood and experienced the effectiveness of prayer, but just haven't seen it as a weapon to be used on the front lines.

Maybe now, I won’t be so hesitant to pray first and won’t be so anxious to get into the battle without that power.   Oh and by the way... I went back and read Exodus 17: 8-13  and I had the whole account underlined in my Bible.   This account of Moses, Joshua, and the power of prayer, obviously grabbed my heart’s attention at another time as well.  Then in Psalm 2:8 He says, “Ask of Me AND I will.....”  So lets ask first AND see what amazing things He does!

It’s amazing how God gets our attention.  Does He have your attention yet?  Are you a Joshua or a Moses?   I would love to hear your feedback!

Denise

Why Pray? Day 11 - Prayer Begins with Praise and a Desire to Do God's Will

Welcome to Wednesday’s PoGBlog! Please read Day 11 in Why Pray.

There is so much to unpack in today’s entry. Here’s where the Spirit led me as I read Day 11.

On page 75, John Devries shares about a 2-1/2 hour meeting where three pastors explained their organizational plan to him. “The walls were covered with flowcharts and boxes. It was all very impressive. “I don’t see the gas tank,” I said. “What do you mean?” they asked. “What makes this flowchart Christian? You could use the same thing to sell fast food or life insurance…I have not heard a word about prayer! Where does prayer fit in?”

I am sad to remember numerous hours and hours in church meetings, and then at the end to actually hear the words, “Well, I guess we better close in a quick word of prayer.” Sigh. Not so good for us. However, I am very happy to say that I can remember many meetings at our church where more time was spent praying than on the actual “meeting.” Good for us!

At our Thursday Worship rehearsals we spend the first 45 minutes or so pondering the Scripture for the upcoming Sunday. We spend time in prayer. Then we begin rehearsing. I hate to admit, many times I’ve wanted to skip over the scripture and prayer section – and get on to the real reason we are here. As 10:00 p.m. approaches, sometimes the enemy sneers, “See? You should skip the prayer time – it is so late –you wasted all of your time.” After reading today’s entry I am so glad that we have agreed to keep the Scripture and Prayer first at our rehearsals, and I pray that God is honored in this decision.

“I don’t see the gas tank,” Devries recounts. The last time it was my “turn” to write the PoGBlog it was about the gas station scenario. Again? Another story about gas? OK, God.

You have my attention!

Oh, aren’t we a foolish people? We work so hard planning, talking, planning, talking, talking, talking… then possibly remember to pray. We strive so hard pushing, sweating, grunting, groaning, pushing, pushing, pushing…. right … past… the gas station. Last week, God was teaching us to stop for gas – to not be too busy to take time to pray. This week, He seems to be reminding us how foolish all of our impressive plans and pie charts are without having a gas tank in our plans as well.

Devries continues, “They assured me they intended to “bathe” it all in prayer. “That sounds like little more than good intentions….”

“Bathe it in prayer.” I can’t get this out of my mind. About 7 years ago I went to a Counselor for help. I was overwhelmed. We were starting a church. I was directing the worship team. I had four children. We were building a house. You get the picture. The first thing she asked me was, “When is the last time you took a bath?”

“Excuse me?”

“When is the last time you took a bath? Not a shower – but a bath. I bet you think you don’t have time to take a nice, warm bath, right? Do you have a nice bath tub?”

Ahem…. “Yes. A very beautiful, deep, porcelain, claw-footed bath tub.”

“Great! Here’s your homework. You must take at least 3 baths this next week before you come back to see me. You must set a timer for 30 minutes. Lock the door. I don’t care if you sleep, read, watch TV, pray, or stare at the ceiling. You must stay in the bath for 30 minutes. You must stop being in a hurry, and take time to soak. Bathe!”

This was probably the dumbest thing I ever heard of. I spent money for this? What’s wrong with taking a quick shower? It’s more efficient. But I told her I would. I didn’t like it. I didn’t have time to take a bath. But I obeyed.

She was right. I needed to take time to slow life down. To soak up the warm water. To take time to lather up the soap, relax, light a candle, and bathe my cares away. What happens when you get to take a nice, long bath? As you lower yourself into the water, the first thoughts are, “ahhh… this is nice!”

A “quick prayer” at the end of a meeting is kind of like a quick shower to save time. In and out.

More efficient. Get it done. But to “bathe” something in prayer – is a slower process that takes more time. It slows down our prayers. It forces us to focus longer on the person or situation we are praying for. It changes, “God bless so and so…” to something much deeper. It lingers on our lips. It’s a long, warm, luxurious soaking --- spending time with God, filling up our gas tank, and intentional times of praying for others.

I know there is so much more in today’s entry than the “bunny trail” I chose to travel. Please read it for yourself – the author has wonderful insights into using the Lord’s Prayer as a guide for “bathing” people and our situations in prayer.

Oh, how I yearn to put Him first… in the morning when it’s time to stop and get gas. I long to really mean it when I say, “I’ll pray for you.” Not just good intentions – but to really pray – to “bathe” that person and their situations in prayer. I am determined to make sure in all my plans, preparations, and flowcharts that there is a gas tank in the plan. And, oh how I hope I never hear the words from my lips again, “Well, I guess we better close with a quick word of prayer.”

How are you coming along with your list of families? Has God placed some families on your heart to pray for? Don’t be surprised if Jesus leads you to increase the number of families for whom you are praying! Don’t worry now about details and solutions for their situations. Simply take time to bathe them in prayer this day.

- dawn

Scripture for Today – Psalm 103:1-5

“Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy Name! Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits – Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, Who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, Who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”

Why Pray? Day 10 - 80 and 80

Welcome to another day of ‘Why Pray’ and the POG Blog! Begin by reading Day 10 of ‘Why Pray’

Today’s Verse is Matthew 14:28-33 – ‘“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”'

The reading today made me think about a saying Martin Luther had. He would typically spend 1-2 hours in prayer each day, but when he was the busiest, he would say he had to immediately stop and pray for 3 hours! The point is that when we are most consumed, that’s when we need to submit and spend time coming under the authority of Jesus’ yoke (His teaching, guidance, and authority).

Spending more time in prayer, when we are busiest, is backwards to our American culture and unfortunately, many times to church work in America. We have stuff to do!!! There’s no time for prayer!! I think of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42) and Martha is so consumed by the preparations that she blindly misses who she is in the same house with. The whole time, Mary is sitting contently and humbly at the feet of Jesus. It’s not saying that we don’t ever ‘do’ anything---as John D. pointed out, ‘When prayer is first and work is second, we are in step with Jesus. With the work arising out of prayer, we shift from working in human power to working in divine power.’

I previously worked in the Accounting/Finance field and there were long hours and always lots to do. When I came on staff at POG, it was a challenging transition at times. One challenge is the idea of always trying to do something and not slowing and seeking God. It’s so easy to fall into my pattern of coming in the office, firing up the computer, checking email, working on my to-do list, and starting the day.

For years, I have read Scripture in the morn at home, but w/2 young kids, having a solid prayer time is challenging. Recently, I have begun to go into the sanctuary when I get to the office and try and be still with God. It’s crazy---I don’t have a plan or structure, I think and pray about ministry, family, the neighborhood, look at the birds, watch construction workers, etc. For a structured, to-do list guy like me, that’s a different world---but it’s been great!

I think that’s what Jesus’ wants and what Luther and John D. were speaking to. Regardless of the busyness, we are called to stop, come under Jesus’ authority, and get guidance for the day.

If we are consumed with work/kids/family/etc., I bet presenting these before God will give us much more peace and hope throughout the day than if we just start attacking our to-do list, consumed with anxiety. Finally, we might even be more productive if we begin by spending time with our Father---ever think of that Type A’ers?? Then we approach the day under His authority, peace, and hope and not under our anxiety and ability.

Do you begin the day by being still with God? Why or why not? How does busyness or anxiety impact your prayer/Scripture life? Are you in the habit (like I can be!!) of just approaching the to-do list and not seeking the Author of life?

Finally, it’s not just a one-time a day thing, but as Paul says, ‘Pray continually!’ Maybe we go back numerous times throughout the day and seek Him for guidance and rest. Also, don’t just read this devo and think it’s good advice---act on it and change your ways!

I would love to hear your comments and how today’s reading struck you. Any practical wisdom or insights would be appreciated as well. Mike

Why Pray? Day 9 -- "Which Foot First?"

Thanks for coming along on the journey this week! If you haven't yet read Day 9 in the Why Pray? book, please do so now.

The verses for today come from Matthew 11:28-30 - “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

I. Am. Exhausted.

Busy week, busy weekend, busier days ahead as my children finish up school (yes, four more days), and my family prepares for a "vacation" (which I'm sure will be busy as well). I honestly want to hop on just one foot (the work foot) and get this devotion completed so I can publish it to "go live" early tomorrow (Monday) so I can go to sleep.

So I am going to stop and pray - right now - to realign my feet so that I'm not stepping with my "work" foot alone.............

................I'm back. Thanks for letting me restart on the right foot.

I'm a visual person, and as I read Day 9, an image combining yokes, stepping in sync, and making a heavy burden easier to carry came to me --

The Budweiser Clydesdales.

If you haven't ever seen them in action outside of a Superbowl ad, they are quite a sight to see! Their hugeness, combined with the impressive teamwork they display, is hard to forget.

As I was researching a little bit about them, I found out that the Budweiser Clydesdales are, from the moment they are born, trained to be "in sync" as in the picture above. The training takes place in baby steps -- first, they are taught how to be handled by trainers (hooves, ears, tails), then they are socialized with other horses and people, leading up to being introduced to crowds (their main purpose is performance rather than deliveries, nowadays). The specifics on training them to pull are more "top secret", but I'm sure they, too, are built upon in small increments -- wearing a yoke alone, wearing it paired with another horse, adding line to the yoke, hitching the horse up into a group without pulling anything, and finally leading up to the horse becoming one of the five show groups in the country.

All the elements are here - the yoke that allows the burden to be shared, the stepping in sync so the carriage is pulled straight and that the horses don't injure each other with missteps. I seem to grasp a sliver of understanding of what Jesus is talking about when I see this picture.

What I also see is that these horses didn't go from being unfamiliar with a yoke straight into pulling in a show group -- they GREW into it. They were intentionally led through exercises that gave them practice, built up stamina, and led them to a level of familiarity that makes the performance a natural extension of who they are. These horses seem to be taking it in stride, because they ARE. They have learned how to do so.

Jesus knows His way isn't natural for us. He knows our nature is to carry burdens alone. He knows we are going to get exhausted from trying so hard. That's why He starts out with "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Then, when we take up His yoke -- walk in step with Him -- we learn from Him and the burden is lighter, easier, no longer ours alone to carry. The more we yoke up to Jesus - walk in sync with Him - the easier it gets to get in sync. We build up stamina, become more familiar and feel it becoming a natural extension of who WE are. We learn from Jesus how to do so.

The author mentions in his closing that "A backward glance will make us laugh as we wonder in amazement at the unbelievable, humorous, and unexpected ways God uses us when we walk in step with Him. Things happen that defy our planning, showing that God is in control. And we rest -- we relax as we, in prayer, snuggle into God's lap with His arms around us."

Suddenly I'm not so exhausted anymore, at least not spiritually. I know He will take me, tired as I am, and walk with me, teach me, take away my burden and give me His to help carry instead. Jesus promises that being in sync with Him will actually bring rest to my soul.

What do you think?

Before you contribute to the blog below (or leave this page to go on to other things), stop for a moment and pray to step back in sync with Jesus. While you do, pray for the families you on your list from Saturday -- does anything come to mind as you pray that maybe calls for action on your part? If so, what can you do to follow through on that call to action?

Lisa