1 Chronicles 29:35
Now, our God, we give you thanks,
and praise your glorious name.
O Lord, It is a joy to give thanks and bless Your glorious name!
Truthful Teacher, I’m overwhelmed by the truths You teach with me when I open my Bible and my heart. Thank You for correcting my wayward thinking.
Healer of Hearts, there is no Doctor like You in heaven or on earth! Thank You for transplanting Your heart into mine, healing me and giving me a vivacious new life full of love and strength.
Almighty Attorney, You defend me from the allegations brought against me by proud people with personal agendas. Thank You for standing up for me.
Narrator of Life Changing Love Stories, You have written the brilliant biography of my life - a fantastic novel of drama, power, romance, and intrigue. Thank You for my life story.
King of Compassion, approaching Your divine throne, I’m overwhelmed by Your kindness. Your mercy and justice take my breath away. Thank You for your compassion.
Sufficient Supplier, You show me the secret to a satisfying life: Relying on your promises, looking for Your provision, and depending on Your power. Thank You for satisfying the desires of my heart.
Great God who governs from beyond the galaxies, You are the Mighty Magistrate righteously ruling and reigning over all the earth. Patiently, You pardon people who plea with You. Thank You for Your righteousness.
Irresistible Lover of My Soul, You light up my life, making my heart happy. You are absolutely precious to me! Thank You for loving me intimately.
Victorious Lord, You’re the Commander-in-Chief of the Army of Blessed Angels. I celebrate the sweet victory You’ve given me through Jesus Christ. Thank you for the glorious conquest!
Indescribable Light, because You made Your home in my heart the Light is always on. Darkness has disappeared and I never have to stumble again. Thank You for releasing me from darkness.
Negotiator of Great Deals, the bargain You made for me is unbelievable! You’d serve my death sentence so that I could be free. Thank You for defending, saving, and freeing me.
Good and Gentle Shepherd, You are my powerful Protector and one and only Owner. O how Your sweet voice resonates deep within the inner ear of my soul. Thank You for taking care of me.
Prepare your heart for worship this Thanksgiving, by perusing your Bible and thinking about Who God is to you. Thank Him for Who He is.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Sacrifice of Thanksgiving
Psalm 107:22
Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving
and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.
Father in Heaven,
As a gesture of appreciation for Your matchless mercy toward me, I’ll joyfully show the world the wonder of Your amazing love by:
Self-expenditure – I’ll gladly abandon my own dreams for absolute loyalty to You, determinedly following You wherever You lead.
Attitude of gratitude – I’ll quickly and gratefully stamp out my personal agenda in order to enliven a broken heart.
Crucifixion of self – Deliberately, I’ll kill my spirit of intolerance and indifference in order to allow You to freely work through me to do anything You choose.
Radical love – Because of the extravagant love You’ve shown me, I’ll readily demonstrate extreme compassion to those outcast by society.
Immediate obedience – Out of fear and respect of Your almighty authority, I’ll willingly do any assignment You give me without hesitating or complaining.
Full devotion – Attached to no one but You, I’ll notice the people and situations that burden You.
Individuality broken – In order to effectively aid and assist You, I’ll allow You to crush me and shape me into Your perfect image.
Challenge – I’ll intentionally accept assignments that may be beyond my mental and physical abilities, fully trusting You to energize and equip me.
Endurance – The power of Your Word, coupled with praise and prayer will strengthen me.
Thank You, Lord for filling me with the sweet aroma of Your love. Let my life pleasantly emulate Your essence this holiday season, attracting others to Your fine fragrance because of Jesus. Amen.
God gave up His Son for Your benefit, ask Him what He wants You to give up for His benefit this holiday season. Then, obey immediately, without hesitating or complaining, cheerfully offering Him your sacrifice with a thankful heart.
O. Chambers writes in My Utmost For His Highest: We know something is right, but we try to find excuses for not doing it immediately. If we are to climb to the height God reveals, it can never be done later – it must be done now … Always guard against self-chosen service for God … God chose the test for Abraham, and Abraham neither delayed nor protested, but steadily obeyed.
Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving
and sing joyfully about his glorious acts.
Father in Heaven,
As a gesture of appreciation for Your matchless mercy toward me, I’ll joyfully show the world the wonder of Your amazing love by:
Self-expenditure – I’ll gladly abandon my own dreams for absolute loyalty to You, determinedly following You wherever You lead.
Attitude of gratitude – I’ll quickly and gratefully stamp out my personal agenda in order to enliven a broken heart.
Crucifixion of self – Deliberately, I’ll kill my spirit of intolerance and indifference in order to allow You to freely work through me to do anything You choose.
Radical love – Because of the extravagant love You’ve shown me, I’ll readily demonstrate extreme compassion to those outcast by society.
Immediate obedience – Out of fear and respect of Your almighty authority, I’ll willingly do any assignment You give me without hesitating or complaining.
Full devotion – Attached to no one but You, I’ll notice the people and situations that burden You.
Individuality broken – In order to effectively aid and assist You, I’ll allow You to crush me and shape me into Your perfect image.
Challenge – I’ll intentionally accept assignments that may be beyond my mental and physical abilities, fully trusting You to energize and equip me.
Endurance – The power of Your Word, coupled with praise and prayer will strengthen me.
Thank You, Lord for filling me with the sweet aroma of Your love. Let my life pleasantly emulate Your essence this holiday season, attracting others to Your fine fragrance because of Jesus. Amen.
God gave up His Son for Your benefit, ask Him what He wants You to give up for His benefit this holiday season. Then, obey immediately, without hesitating or complaining, cheerfully offering Him your sacrifice with a thankful heart.
O. Chambers writes in My Utmost For His Highest: We know something is right, but we try to find excuses for not doing it immediately. If we are to climb to the height God reveals, it can never be done later – it must be done now … Always guard against self-chosen service for God … God chose the test for Abraham, and Abraham neither delayed nor protested, but steadily obeyed.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Enter His Gates with Thanksgiving
Psalm 100
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Almighty, All-bountiful, All-gracious God,It’s sheer pleasure to worship You with heartfelt adoration and undivided attention. Your unfailing love has put a song in my heart, a spring in my step and a smile on my face. I believe that You are Lord, my God, Creator of everything. Thank You for making me intricately and uniquely with Your strong hands. I’m Your most valuable possession. O, how I praise You!
My Good and Gentle Shepherd, knowing You intimately is the greatest joy and blessing. Your voice is music to my ears. Willingly, I follow You. With steadfast devotion, You lead me to the lush, rolling meadows in my Bible where I can devour the rich delicacy of Your Word. Faithfully, You guide me through barren deserts to refreshing streams of Living Water that quench my thirsty soul. Along the way, You staunchly defend me from the wolves of sin and temptation that hound me. Thank You for protecting and providing for me.
With unbridled excitement, I enter the heavenly gate and come into the safety of Your beautiful sanctuary. My thankful heart, tells of Your tender kindness and continuous mercy. I sing of Your infinite goodness and everlasting compassion. Your enduring love has set my feet a dancing. O how I love and worship You for all You’ve done for me, Jesus, my Wonderful Savior, Redeemer and Friend. Amen
Prepare your heart for Thanksgiving, by pondering God’s goodness. Make a list of all the gifts He’s given you. Thank Him for each one, offering Him a sacrifice praise!
Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.
Almighty, All-bountiful, All-gracious God,It’s sheer pleasure to worship You with heartfelt adoration and undivided attention. Your unfailing love has put a song in my heart, a spring in my step and a smile on my face. I believe that You are Lord, my God, Creator of everything. Thank You for making me intricately and uniquely with Your strong hands. I’m Your most valuable possession. O, how I praise You!
My Good and Gentle Shepherd, knowing You intimately is the greatest joy and blessing. Your voice is music to my ears. Willingly, I follow You. With steadfast devotion, You lead me to the lush, rolling meadows in my Bible where I can devour the rich delicacy of Your Word. Faithfully, You guide me through barren deserts to refreshing streams of Living Water that quench my thirsty soul. Along the way, You staunchly defend me from the wolves of sin and temptation that hound me. Thank You for protecting and providing for me.
With unbridled excitement, I enter the heavenly gate and come into the safety of Your beautiful sanctuary. My thankful heart, tells of Your tender kindness and continuous mercy. I sing of Your infinite goodness and everlasting compassion. Your enduring love has set my feet a dancing. O how I love and worship You for all You’ve done for me, Jesus, my Wonderful Savior, Redeemer and Friend. Amen
Prepare your heart for Thanksgiving, by pondering God’s goodness. Make a list of all the gifts He’s given you. Thank Him for each one, offering Him a sacrifice praise!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Persistent Prayer
Luke 18: 1-8
Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. He said: "In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, 'Grant me justice against my adversary.'
"For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, 'Even though I don't fear God or care about men, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won't eventually wear me out with her coming!' "
And the Lord said, "Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
Honorable Judge~
Your great compassion and mercy are unending. I am dreadfully needy like the widow, but have not been as persistent with my prayer life. Rather than constantly complaining to You about my on-going problems and pressures, I easily give up and give in. Forgive me for my lack of faith! Thank You for reminding me that I should always pray and not quit! If an unjust person buckles under my continuous badgering how much more will an honorable and patient Judge like You pity me when I keep pestering?
Please dear Lord, increase my faith so that I’ll persistently plead with You like the widow. I’m worn down by my physical and spiritual battles. I’ve been enduring a barrage of troubles and heartache. Tired of the stress and weary from the fight, I’m ready to give up! I long for an easier way! I’m tempted to slip away to a place far from people, away from my problems and struggles; to a place where things are quiet and peaceful. But, Lord, I don’t want to miss the blessings You have for those who stick with You through the hard times.
By faith, I’ll hang around and incessantly cry out to You day and night. As I persevere, please develop my character, faith, and hope. In time, when You are sick and tired of hearing me You’ll respond with the right answer to my situation. Please have mercy on me, Your chosen child. Hear my prayers and answer quickly! Give me faith to endure and believe that You won’t put me off permanently. I know that You love me deeply because of Jesus. Amen.
Is there something you have given up praying for because you feel like God is not listening? Do not give up! Be persistent like the widow. God may delay answering, but His delays always have good reason. As you persist, He will develop your character, faith and hope.
If a corrupt judge caves in to constant pressure, how much more will a great and loving God answer to us? If you know He loves you, you must believe He will hear your cry for help.
Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. He said: "In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men. And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, 'Grant me justice against my adversary.'
"For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, 'Even though I don't fear God or care about men, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won't eventually wear me out with her coming!' "
And the Lord said, "Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
Honorable Judge~
Your great compassion and mercy are unending. I am dreadfully needy like the widow, but have not been as persistent with my prayer life. Rather than constantly complaining to You about my on-going problems and pressures, I easily give up and give in. Forgive me for my lack of faith! Thank You for reminding me that I should always pray and not quit! If an unjust person buckles under my continuous badgering how much more will an honorable and patient Judge like You pity me when I keep pestering?
Please dear Lord, increase my faith so that I’ll persistently plead with You like the widow. I’m worn down by my physical and spiritual battles. I’ve been enduring a barrage of troubles and heartache. Tired of the stress and weary from the fight, I’m ready to give up! I long for an easier way! I’m tempted to slip away to a place far from people, away from my problems and struggles; to a place where things are quiet and peaceful. But, Lord, I don’t want to miss the blessings You have for those who stick with You through the hard times.
By faith, I’ll hang around and incessantly cry out to You day and night. As I persevere, please develop my character, faith, and hope. In time, when You are sick and tired of hearing me You’ll respond with the right answer to my situation. Please have mercy on me, Your chosen child. Hear my prayers and answer quickly! Give me faith to endure and believe that You won’t put me off permanently. I know that You love me deeply because of Jesus. Amen.
Is there something you have given up praying for because you feel like God is not listening? Do not give up! Be persistent like the widow. God may delay answering, but His delays always have good reason. As you persist, He will develop your character, faith and hope.
If a corrupt judge caves in to constant pressure, how much more will a great and loving God answer to us? If you know He loves you, you must believe He will hear your cry for help.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Tempted to Sleep
Matthew 26:38, 40-41, 43-45
Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them. Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near.”
Precious Jesus,
I am so sorry! You’ve invited me to join You in agonizing prayer, and I have failed you miserably! Surrounded by the sorrow of sin, overwhelmed by the misery of severe suffering, and swallowed up in the sheer terror of impending death, You’ve asked me to keep vigil, but like Peter, I’m drowsy and prone to dozing off. Forgive me, O Lord!
You know the brutal battle that lies ahead for me. Clearly, You warn me to pay attention and pray. Deep agonizing grief from the consequences of poor choices will besiege me. The intense suffering from sickness will be unbearable. The cruel killing of souls and maiming of minds will torment me to the point of overwhelming despair. With all my heart, I want to obey, but the nighttime of the soul seems eternally long and I’m worn out and restless.
I beg You to teach me to pray powerful prayers that will crush the adversary. The hour is near when You’ll come back, and I don’t want You to find me sleeping again. I want You to be pleasantly surprised when You find me in the garden wrestling over the burdens of Your heart for the glory of Your name. Amen.
O. Chambers writes in My Utmost for His Highest, October 16: “The key to the missionary’s difficult task is in the hand of God, and that key is prayer, not work … the key is in following the Master’s orders – the key is prayer.
Jesus has invited us to watch and pray with Him. His intense agonizing prayer in the garden gave Him the strength to face the journey to the cross. If you don’t pay attention and wrestle with Him in prayer, you’ll snap when the stress and strain do come – and it will come. Ask Jesus to teach you to pray powerful prayers that will crush the enemy.
Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them. Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near.”
Precious Jesus,
I am so sorry! You’ve invited me to join You in agonizing prayer, and I have failed you miserably! Surrounded by the sorrow of sin, overwhelmed by the misery of severe suffering, and swallowed up in the sheer terror of impending death, You’ve asked me to keep vigil, but like Peter, I’m drowsy and prone to dozing off. Forgive me, O Lord!
You know the brutal battle that lies ahead for me. Clearly, You warn me to pay attention and pray. Deep agonizing grief from the consequences of poor choices will besiege me. The intense suffering from sickness will be unbearable. The cruel killing of souls and maiming of minds will torment me to the point of overwhelming despair. With all my heart, I want to obey, but the nighttime of the soul seems eternally long and I’m worn out and restless.
I beg You to teach me to pray powerful prayers that will crush the adversary. The hour is near when You’ll come back, and I don’t want You to find me sleeping again. I want You to be pleasantly surprised when You find me in the garden wrestling over the burdens of Your heart for the glory of Your name. Amen.
O. Chambers writes in My Utmost for His Highest, October 16: “The key to the missionary’s difficult task is in the hand of God, and that key is prayer, not work … the key is in following the Master’s orders – the key is prayer.
Jesus has invited us to watch and pray with Him. His intense agonizing prayer in the garden gave Him the strength to face the journey to the cross. If you don’t pay attention and wrestle with Him in prayer, you’ll snap when the stress and strain do come – and it will come. Ask Jesus to teach you to pray powerful prayers that will crush the enemy.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Pray Like Jesus
Matthew 26: 37-39, 42,
He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death … He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”
So He went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. NKJV
O Lord Jesus,
Thank You for teaching me how to pray! Forgive me for my casual, careless prayers. My happy-go-lucky heart would rather be singing praises and dancing than falling on my face in deep sorrowful prayer. I’ve failed to follow Your example. My prayers have been hasty, shallow and sloppy. I wonder why they go unanswered.
Please lay Your heart over my heart and teach me to pray. O that my soul would be exceedingly anguished even to the point of death for the things that trouble You. Rather than praying as I drive down the road asking You to bless this person and that person, give me this and give them that, I want to go to the garden alone, far away from the hustle and bustle, where I can experience prayer with You.
In Your presence, I’ll fall on my face. Crying out to You in deep distress, You’ll tell me exactly what’s on Your heart. As I sit still, quietly listening to Your voice, my prayer life will change. I’ll be overcome with grief for the things that grieve You. The intense pain will be unbearable. It’ll be tempting to walk away from the severe problems and pressures you reveal to me, but Lord, with all my heart I want to follow You, even to death. I want to pray like You, Jesus, not my will but Yours be done. Amen.
Have you ever had this heart of God? Have you ever prayed like Jesus? Would you be willing to allow God to take You to a different kind of praying? Turn around and follow Jesus. He’ll teach you how to pray powerful prayers that will make a kingdom difference.
Imagine what would happen if the Church started praying like this for our nation!
He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death … He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”
So He went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. NKJV
O Lord Jesus,
Thank You for teaching me how to pray! Forgive me for my casual, careless prayers. My happy-go-lucky heart would rather be singing praises and dancing than falling on my face in deep sorrowful prayer. I’ve failed to follow Your example. My prayers have been hasty, shallow and sloppy. I wonder why they go unanswered.
Please lay Your heart over my heart and teach me to pray. O that my soul would be exceedingly anguished even to the point of death for the things that trouble You. Rather than praying as I drive down the road asking You to bless this person and that person, give me this and give them that, I want to go to the garden alone, far away from the hustle and bustle, where I can experience prayer with You.
In Your presence, I’ll fall on my face. Crying out to You in deep distress, You’ll tell me exactly what’s on Your heart. As I sit still, quietly listening to Your voice, my prayer life will change. I’ll be overcome with grief for the things that grieve You. The intense pain will be unbearable. It’ll be tempting to walk away from the severe problems and pressures you reveal to me, but Lord, with all my heart I want to follow You, even to death. I want to pray like You, Jesus, not my will but Yours be done. Amen.
Have you ever had this heart of God? Have you ever prayed like Jesus? Would you be willing to allow God to take You to a different kind of praying? Turn around and follow Jesus. He’ll teach you how to pray powerful prayers that will make a kingdom difference.
Imagine what would happen if the Church started praying like this for our nation!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Battle of the Mind
2 Corinthians 10: 3-5
For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
O God You are my Knight in Shining Armor! You rescue me and train me to fight fair and square. Your promises are the bedrock on which I firmly stand.
I’m fighting impurity and unrighteousness in a hateful, hostile world! Everywhere I turn, I’m bombarded with bullets of decadence and delusion. My mind is the battlefield where speculation, knowledge, and thoughts take place. Skirmishing with sin in a corrupt culture is a dangerous place to exist! I need You, God Almighty, to reach down from heaven and snatch me out Satan’s perilous grip.
By Your Spirit, I’ll claim the divinely powerful promises You’ve given me to destroy the barbarians who manipulate my mind with masterful marketing. Wielding the swift, sharp sword of Your Word, I’ll slash warped philosophies and cut through barriers erected against the Truth. You are my Commander-in-Chief. With my thoughts completely submitted to Your control, You’ll order every loose idea, emotion, and impulse to obedience.
As a loyal solider in the Army of Angels, please train and equip me with godly principles so that I’m adequately prepared to fight for what’s right in my uncivilized, unscrupulous surroundings. I want to know my Commander and recognize His thundering voice. I want to believe Him! I want to trust Him! Above all, I want to obey Him and live triumphantly in the blessing of His fortified castle forever and ever! Amen.
What do you need to do to prepare your mind for the immense spiritual battle with evil and temptation in the uncivilized and unscrupulous society where you live, work and play?
Spiritual warfare is a reality that must be faced! It won’t go away. It is time to prepare ourselves to wage war, not as the world does, but with the weapons provided by the Spirit of God. – Dave Butts, The Devil Goes to Church
For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
O God You are my Knight in Shining Armor! You rescue me and train me to fight fair and square. Your promises are the bedrock on which I firmly stand.
I’m fighting impurity and unrighteousness in a hateful, hostile world! Everywhere I turn, I’m bombarded with bullets of decadence and delusion. My mind is the battlefield where speculation, knowledge, and thoughts take place. Skirmishing with sin in a corrupt culture is a dangerous place to exist! I need You, God Almighty, to reach down from heaven and snatch me out Satan’s perilous grip.
By Your Spirit, I’ll claim the divinely powerful promises You’ve given me to destroy the barbarians who manipulate my mind with masterful marketing. Wielding the swift, sharp sword of Your Word, I’ll slash warped philosophies and cut through barriers erected against the Truth. You are my Commander-in-Chief. With my thoughts completely submitted to Your control, You’ll order every loose idea, emotion, and impulse to obedience.
As a loyal solider in the Army of Angels, please train and equip me with godly principles so that I’m adequately prepared to fight for what’s right in my uncivilized, unscrupulous surroundings. I want to know my Commander and recognize His thundering voice. I want to believe Him! I want to trust Him! Above all, I want to obey Him and live triumphantly in the blessing of His fortified castle forever and ever! Amen.
What do you need to do to prepare your mind for the immense spiritual battle with evil and temptation in the uncivilized and unscrupulous society where you live, work and play?
Spiritual warfare is a reality that must be faced! It won’t go away. It is time to prepare ourselves to wage war, not as the world does, but with the weapons provided by the Spirit of God. – Dave Butts, The Devil Goes to Church
Battle of the Mind
2 Corinthians 10: 3-5
For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
O God You are my Knight in Shining Armor! You rescue me and train me to fight fair and square. Your promises are the bedrock on which I firmly stand.
I’m fighting impurity and unrighteousness in a hateful, hostile world! Everywhere I turn, I’m bombarded with bullets of decadence and delusion. My mind is the battlefield where speculation, knowledge, and thoughts take place. Skirmishing with sin in a corrupt culture is a dangerous place to exist! I need You, God Almighty, to reach down from heaven and snatch me out Satan’s perilous grip.
By Your Spirit, I’ll claim the divinely powerful promises You’ve given me to destroy the barbarians who manipulate my mind with masterful marketing. Wielding the swift, sharp sword of Your Word, I’ll slash warped philosophies and cut through barriers erected against the Truth. You are my Commander-in-Chief. With my thoughts completely submitted to Your control, You’ll order every loose idea, emotion, and impulse to obedience.
As a loyal solider in the Army of Angels, please train and equip me with godly principles so that I’m adequately prepared to fight for what’s right in my uncivilized, unscrupulous surroundings. I want to know my Commander and recognize His thundering voice. I want to believe Him! I want to trust Him! Above all, I want to obey Him and live triumphantly in the blessing of His fortified castle forever and ever! Amen.
What do you need to do to prepare your mind for the immense spiritual battle with evil and temptation in the uncivilized and unscrupulous society where you live, work and play?
Spiritual warfare is a reality that must be faced! It won’t go away. It is time to prepare ourselves to wage war, not as the world does, but with the weapons provided by the Spirit of God. – Dave Butts, The Devil Goes to Church
For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.
O God You are my Knight in Shining Armor! You rescue me and train me to fight fair and square. Your promises are the bedrock on which I firmly stand.
I’m fighting impurity and unrighteousness in a hateful, hostile world! Everywhere I turn, I’m bombarded with bullets of decadence and delusion. My mind is the battlefield where speculation, knowledge, and thoughts take place. Skirmishing with sin in a corrupt culture is a dangerous place to exist! I need You, God Almighty, to reach down from heaven and snatch me out Satan’s perilous grip.
By Your Spirit, I’ll claim the divinely powerful promises You’ve given me to destroy the barbarians who manipulate my mind with masterful marketing. Wielding the swift, sharp sword of Your Word, I’ll slash warped philosophies and cut through barriers erected against the Truth. You are my Commander-in-Chief. With my thoughts completely submitted to Your control, You’ll order every loose idea, emotion, and impulse to obedience.
As a loyal solider in the Army of Angels, please train and equip me with godly principles so that I’m adequately prepared to fight for what’s right in my uncivilized, unscrupulous surroundings. I want to know my Commander and recognize His thundering voice. I want to believe Him! I want to trust Him! Above all, I want to obey Him and live triumphantly in the blessing of His fortified castle forever and ever! Amen.
What do you need to do to prepare your mind for the immense spiritual battle with evil and temptation in the uncivilized and unscrupulous society where you live, work and play?
Spiritual warfare is a reality that must be faced! It won’t go away. It is time to prepare ourselves to wage war, not as the world does, but with the weapons provided by the Spirit of God. – Dave Butts, The Devil Goes to Church
Monday, November 17, 2008
Single Minded Devotion
2 Corinthians 11: 3, 4
I fear that somehow you will be led away from your pure and simple devotion to Christ, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent. You seem to believe whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach about a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed.
Truthful Father-You are teaching me how important it is to carefully listen to Your instruction and know Your Voice. How can I detect false teachers if I don’t know the Truth myself? Because ignorance makes me vulnerable to deception, I need to urgently grow in the knowledge of Your Word so that I won’t make foolish mistakes and be misled.
From this day forward, I will be an honest seeker and biblical scholar by diligently studying the Holy Scriptures. As I do, fill me with divine knowledge and wisdom so that my devotion will remain pure, sincere and simple. Protect me from smooth-talkers who have a fascinating message that sound spiritual and makes sense. Hearts are full of deceit. I need to be on guard, always verifying the Truth by searching my Bible. Your Word alone will be my authoritative guide.There are so many confusing distractions around me, threatening to side track my faith. Just as Eve lost her focus in the Garden of Eden by the sly and slippery serpent who twisted the truth, things cleverly disguised as good and moral can fool me too. Satan and his servants are the master’s of disguise. Give me eyes to see through their charades in the Church, as they masquerade as godly ministers. Hide the Truth in my heart so that I will not fall for their schemes.
Lord, with all my heart I want to be single-mindedly devoted to You, believing the One and Only Truth, Jesus Christ who suffered, bled, died and rose to glorious new life once and for all. Amen.
What are you doing to ensure you know the Truth and are not led astray by false teachers? They really are quite clever and cunning, and they are everywhere. John the Beloved warns us, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Don’t listen to any “authoritative preacher” who contradicts the Word of God.
Jesus’ warning is loud and clear, “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people -” including the elect. (Matthew 24:4, 11, 24)
Bill Keller of LivePrayer.com writes in his November 14, 2008 devotional:
We have entire generations of people who identify themselves as Christians who may have never even given their lives to Christ by faith, and certainly have never been rooted and grounded in the absolute truth of God's Word. The byproduct is they are easy targets for the (Deepka) Chopra's of the world to lead them far away from the truth of the Bible and to eternal damnation!
Read A True Modern Day Tool of Satan Helping to Lead the Souls of Millions to Hell by Bill Keller of Liveprayer.com
http://liveprayer.com/ddarchive3.cfm?id=3511
I fear that somehow you will be led away from your pure and simple devotion to Christ, just as Eve was deceived by the serpent. You seem to believe whatever anyone tells you, even if they preach about a different Jesus than the one we preach, or a different Spirit than the one you received, or a different kind of gospel than the one you believed.
Truthful Father-You are teaching me how important it is to carefully listen to Your instruction and know Your Voice. How can I detect false teachers if I don’t know the Truth myself? Because ignorance makes me vulnerable to deception, I need to urgently grow in the knowledge of Your Word so that I won’t make foolish mistakes and be misled.
From this day forward, I will be an honest seeker and biblical scholar by diligently studying the Holy Scriptures. As I do, fill me with divine knowledge and wisdom so that my devotion will remain pure, sincere and simple. Protect me from smooth-talkers who have a fascinating message that sound spiritual and makes sense. Hearts are full of deceit. I need to be on guard, always verifying the Truth by searching my Bible. Your Word alone will be my authoritative guide.There are so many confusing distractions around me, threatening to side track my faith. Just as Eve lost her focus in the Garden of Eden by the sly and slippery serpent who twisted the truth, things cleverly disguised as good and moral can fool me too. Satan and his servants are the master’s of disguise. Give me eyes to see through their charades in the Church, as they masquerade as godly ministers. Hide the Truth in my heart so that I will not fall for their schemes.
Lord, with all my heart I want to be single-mindedly devoted to You, believing the One and Only Truth, Jesus Christ who suffered, bled, died and rose to glorious new life once and for all. Amen.
What are you doing to ensure you know the Truth and are not led astray by false teachers? They really are quite clever and cunning, and they are everywhere. John the Beloved warns us, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” Don’t listen to any “authoritative preacher” who contradicts the Word of God.
Jesus’ warning is loud and clear, “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people -” including the elect. (Matthew 24:4, 11, 24)
Bill Keller of LivePrayer.com writes in his November 14, 2008 devotional:
We have entire generations of people who identify themselves as Christians who may have never even given their lives to Christ by faith, and certainly have never been rooted and grounded in the absolute truth of God's Word. The byproduct is they are easy targets for the (Deepka) Chopra's of the world to lead them far away from the truth of the Bible and to eternal damnation!
Read A True Modern Day Tool of Satan Helping to Lead the Souls of Millions to Hell by Bill Keller of Liveprayer.com
http://liveprayer.com/ddarchive3.cfm?id=3511
Friday, November 14, 2008
Clean Heart Living
Psalm 119:9-11
How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Blessed Writer of the Word,
O how I cherish the wisdom recorded in Your Holy Scriptures. It teaches me about Your holy character and divine nature. An amazing documentary on love, it tells the dramatic story of my rescue from death and destruction. It reveals that You chose and adopted me into Your holy family. I must; therefore, learn to love You and live like a divine child.
It is essential that I open the Book of Life, my Bible, and read it fervently. It will teach me precisely how to live with integrity in a relativistic society that doesn’t take You seriously. The more time I spend studying and applying Your rules for righteous living, the more I’ll become like You. Gradually, my heart will become more sincere and my mind unadulterated.
Out of deep heartfelt devotion, I’ll passionately pursue You. Spending intense time alone with You, my heart will synchronize with Yours. Pleasing You will be my only ambition. Rather than tirelessly trying to make people happy, I’ll spend my energy respecting and praising You in everything I say and do.
Daily digging into the sacred Treasure Chest of Your Word, I’ll uncover Your costly commands and precious promises. Gingerly picking each one up, I’ll methodically study them. Memorizing their fine details, I’ll recognize their great worth during conflict and crisis. Tucked securely in the pocket of my heart, they’ll prevent me from offending You.
O blessed Writer of the Word, thank You for imparting me with wisdom to do Your will, Your way for the glory and honor of Your holy name. Amen.
How can you practice clean-heart living? The Bible says it’s easy as 1-2-3 …
1) Live according to God’s Word.
2) Seek Him with all your heart and obey His commands.
3) Hide His Word in Your heart so that you won’t offend Him.
How can a young man keep his way pure?
By living according to your word.
I seek you with all my heart;
do not let me stray from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart
that I might not sin against you.
Blessed Writer of the Word,
O how I cherish the wisdom recorded in Your Holy Scriptures. It teaches me about Your holy character and divine nature. An amazing documentary on love, it tells the dramatic story of my rescue from death and destruction. It reveals that You chose and adopted me into Your holy family. I must; therefore, learn to love You and live like a divine child.
It is essential that I open the Book of Life, my Bible, and read it fervently. It will teach me precisely how to live with integrity in a relativistic society that doesn’t take You seriously. The more time I spend studying and applying Your rules for righteous living, the more I’ll become like You. Gradually, my heart will become more sincere and my mind unadulterated.
Out of deep heartfelt devotion, I’ll passionately pursue You. Spending intense time alone with You, my heart will synchronize with Yours. Pleasing You will be my only ambition. Rather than tirelessly trying to make people happy, I’ll spend my energy respecting and praising You in everything I say and do.
Daily digging into the sacred Treasure Chest of Your Word, I’ll uncover Your costly commands and precious promises. Gingerly picking each one up, I’ll methodically study them. Memorizing their fine details, I’ll recognize their great worth during conflict and crisis. Tucked securely in the pocket of my heart, they’ll prevent me from offending You.
O blessed Writer of the Word, thank You for imparting me with wisdom to do Your will, Your way for the glory and honor of Your holy name. Amen.
How can you practice clean-heart living? The Bible says it’s easy as 1-2-3 …
1) Live according to God’s Word.
2) Seek Him with all your heart and obey His commands.
3) Hide His Word in Your heart so that you won’t offend Him.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Renew Your Mind
Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
O Great God,
You are the most famous artist of all time. I could search the whole wide world and find no one as creative or talented as You.
Unscrupulous con artists continually corrupt Your creation. The world presses people into cookie cutter patterns that perform for power, possessions and pleasure. It uses symbols of status to stamp us with success. When we conform to their hard pressed image we become heartless, mindless and lifeless like plastic toys and trinkets.
You however, have a unique technique for sculpting original works of art that are eternally beautiful, valuable and useful. All we have to do is stay soft and pliable in Your meticulous hands every day. Throughout the lifelong process, our eyes will turn toward You, our Designer, when we open our Bibles. Meditating on Your sacred Scriptures will form our true character. They’ll expose the rough spots of rebellion that need to be scraped away. They’ll correct our cracks, flaws, and blemishes. They’ll squeeze us and change us into Your perfect plan. Through the heat of life we’ll come out of the fiery furnace glazed with Your glory.
With Your Holy Word permanently etched on my heart, my mind will be altered to live Your way. Please don’t let con artists squeeze me into the rigid mold of the world. I want to remain soft and pliable in Your skillful hand where I can be shaped into a pleasantly perfect pot to pour out Your extraordinary love. Please dear Lord, transform my mind today, making me an eternally valuable vessel for the praise of Your most creative name. Amen.
What pattern of the world is pressing you today? What will you do differently to prevent con artists from corrupting you?
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
O Great God,
You are the most famous artist of all time. I could search the whole wide world and find no one as creative or talented as You.
Unscrupulous con artists continually corrupt Your creation. The world presses people into cookie cutter patterns that perform for power, possessions and pleasure. It uses symbols of status to stamp us with success. When we conform to their hard pressed image we become heartless, mindless and lifeless like plastic toys and trinkets.
You however, have a unique technique for sculpting original works of art that are eternally beautiful, valuable and useful. All we have to do is stay soft and pliable in Your meticulous hands every day. Throughout the lifelong process, our eyes will turn toward You, our Designer, when we open our Bibles. Meditating on Your sacred Scriptures will form our true character. They’ll expose the rough spots of rebellion that need to be scraped away. They’ll correct our cracks, flaws, and blemishes. They’ll squeeze us and change us into Your perfect plan. Through the heat of life we’ll come out of the fiery furnace glazed with Your glory.
With Your Holy Word permanently etched on my heart, my mind will be altered to live Your way. Please don’t let con artists squeeze me into the rigid mold of the world. I want to remain soft and pliable in Your skillful hand where I can be shaped into a pleasantly perfect pot to pour out Your extraordinary love. Please dear Lord, transform my mind today, making me an eternally valuable vessel for the praise of Your most creative name. Amen.
What pattern of the world is pressing you today? What will you do differently to prevent con artists from corrupting you?
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Turn Around
Matthew 4:17
From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
2 Timothy 4:3-4
The time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth.
God of Wonders, I marvel at the power of Your Voice. Thank You for opening my spiritual ears to hear the very first word out of Your mouth to believers, “Repent!” I hear You commanding the Church, the nation, and me to turn around. We’re going in the wrong direction! We don’t listen or pay attention to You, but follow the stubborn inclination of our misguided hearts. Sadly, we’ve twisted Truth to be whatever works and gets good results.
We don’t want to admit the painful depth from which we’ve fallen. We no longer love You, or our brothers and sisters. We bicker, squabble and argue over insignificant matters when we should be falling on our knees in unity of mind and soul praying for radical change in our Church, in our nation, and in our own hearts. We use not only our hearts, but our sanctuaries as a front to worship our manmade gods.
Our leaders are feeding us a pack of sugar-coated lies and we swallow them because we don’t open our Bibles and seek the Truth. Afraid we won’t come back if we know the real cost of following You, we’re not taught to obey Your rules. We’d rather praise and perform than fall on our face in humiliation and acknowledge our brokenness before You. The Church You set apart for holy worship has become a place to carry out our outrageous sacrilege. Have mercy on us for desecrating Your Holy House!
Living Lord, I want to experience the fullness of Your presence and power. I admit that I often head in the wrong direction. Frustrated by lack of results, I gave up praying for change in my Church, in my country, and in my heart. But because of the power of Your Word spoken to me today, I just made a U-turn to follow You. Fuel my heart, O Lord, with renewed passion to radically pray for change that will bring You the honor and glory You’re worthy of. Amen.
Do you hear the first words from our Lord’s mouth when He began preaching to His followers? “Repent!” This word is for you and me, friends - not for the unbelievers. We’re going in the wrong direction and need to do an immediate U-turn. I urge you, turn around and follow Jesus before it’s too late – the kingdom of heaven is near.
For additional reading, I recommend Hosea 4-14. It’s a very clear illustration of the condition of the Church, our country, and our own hearts today, and the consequences for our disobedience.
From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
2 Timothy 4:3-4
The time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth.
God of Wonders, I marvel at the power of Your Voice. Thank You for opening my spiritual ears to hear the very first word out of Your mouth to believers, “Repent!” I hear You commanding the Church, the nation, and me to turn around. We’re going in the wrong direction! We don’t listen or pay attention to You, but follow the stubborn inclination of our misguided hearts. Sadly, we’ve twisted Truth to be whatever works and gets good results.
We don’t want to admit the painful depth from which we’ve fallen. We no longer love You, or our brothers and sisters. We bicker, squabble and argue over insignificant matters when we should be falling on our knees in unity of mind and soul praying for radical change in our Church, in our nation, and in our own hearts. We use not only our hearts, but our sanctuaries as a front to worship our manmade gods.
Our leaders are feeding us a pack of sugar-coated lies and we swallow them because we don’t open our Bibles and seek the Truth. Afraid we won’t come back if we know the real cost of following You, we’re not taught to obey Your rules. We’d rather praise and perform than fall on our face in humiliation and acknowledge our brokenness before You. The Church You set apart for holy worship has become a place to carry out our outrageous sacrilege. Have mercy on us for desecrating Your Holy House!
Living Lord, I want to experience the fullness of Your presence and power. I admit that I often head in the wrong direction. Frustrated by lack of results, I gave up praying for change in my Church, in my country, and in my heart. But because of the power of Your Word spoken to me today, I just made a U-turn to follow You. Fuel my heart, O Lord, with renewed passion to radically pray for change that will bring You the honor and glory You’re worthy of. Amen.
Do you hear the first words from our Lord’s mouth when He began preaching to His followers? “Repent!” This word is for you and me, friends - not for the unbelievers. We’re going in the wrong direction and need to do an immediate U-turn. I urge you, turn around and follow Jesus before it’s too late – the kingdom of heaven is near.
For additional reading, I recommend Hosea 4-14. It’s a very clear illustration of the condition of the Church, our country, and our own hearts today, and the consequences for our disobedience.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Destroyed for Lack of Knowledge
Hosea 4:6
My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. "Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.
Hosea 6:3
As surely as the sun rises, he will appear.
God of all Knowledge and Truth,
I cry out to You on behalf of our nation and the complacent Church. We do not know the Truth – Jesus Christ, Your Living Word, the Way to real Life. Failing to exercise discretion, our steady diet of secular humanism has caused us to cash in our conscience for comfort. Instead of seeking Your wise counsel, we’ve consulted a paper idol and have been answered back by the blank stare of a dead dignitary! Have mercy on us, O God, and do not destroy us for our ignorance!
Sure as the sun rises, Your Word clearly warns, You will appear to judge the land with righteousness and truth. Yet, the Church has abandoned both for the sake of relativism. Truth is whatever works and gets good results. Popularity has replaced morality. Prosperity has made us so proud that we’ve forgotten the principles on which our country was founded. Instead of boasting in the Giver of Gifts, we brag about our inflated financial statements. Pleased with our puffed-up performances we no longer seek direction from You. We’ve deliberately walked away from the Hand that paid our debt, set us free and faithfully fed us, to an unknown hand holding out perishable promises of a quick fix for short-term relief. Have mercy on us, O God, and do not annihilate us for rejecting You!
O merciful Lord, I cry out to You to come like a roaring lion – like the mighty Lion of Judah – and arouse the indifferent, impotent Church. Cause us to come trembling back to You, and stand up for what is right: the sanctity of life, the purity of marriage, and the unity of family. Heal our perverted hearts and bind up our warped minds. In these dark days, that are likely to get darker, give us courage to cash in our comfort for compassion. Impassion us with holy justice, and open our minds to the Truth: Sure as the sun rises You will appear, and if we aren’t careful we will be destroyed for our lack of knowledge. Spare us O Lord, in Jesus name. Amen.
Will you join me in crying out for a great awakening in the Church? God makes it clear that He will heal our land when we humble ourselves before Him, pray, seek His face with all our heart, and turn from our wicked ways.
A.W. Tozer defines revival as a move of God that “changes the moral climate of the community.” History shows that a true awakening leaps beyond the walls of any church and radically transforms society. If we want to be a church that really makes a difference in our community, we first need to submit to the painful revival fires – heartfelt humility, persistent prayer, wholeheartedly seek God’s face, and deliberately trust and obey.
Bill Bright writes in his book, The Coming Revival: America’s Call to Fast, Pray, and Seek God’s Face, “By nature every one of us is inclined to take the path of least resistance. But we Americans are especially notorious for avoiding pain at all cost. When it comes right down to it, most of us do not like hard work.”
Evangelist James Burns writes: Revival comes to scorch before it heals; it comes to condemn ministers and people for their unfaithful witness, for their selfish living, for their neglect of the cross, and to call them to daily renunciation, to an evangelical poverty and to a deep and daily consecration. That is why a revival has ever been unpopular with large numbers of churches. Because it says nothing to them of power (worldly ways) such as they have learned to love, or of ease, or of success; it accuses them of sin, it tells them they are dead, it calls them to awake, to renounce the world and to follow Christ. –Winkie Pratney, Revival: Its Principles and Personalities
Once again, Dr. Henry Blackaby asks, “What kind of praying have we been doing to lead our nation to the mess we’re in?”
The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective. James 5:16
My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. "Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests; because you have ignored the law of your God, I also will ignore your children.
Hosea 6:3
As surely as the sun rises, he will appear.
God of all Knowledge and Truth,
I cry out to You on behalf of our nation and the complacent Church. We do not know the Truth – Jesus Christ, Your Living Word, the Way to real Life. Failing to exercise discretion, our steady diet of secular humanism has caused us to cash in our conscience for comfort. Instead of seeking Your wise counsel, we’ve consulted a paper idol and have been answered back by the blank stare of a dead dignitary! Have mercy on us, O God, and do not destroy us for our ignorance!
Sure as the sun rises, Your Word clearly warns, You will appear to judge the land with righteousness and truth. Yet, the Church has abandoned both for the sake of relativism. Truth is whatever works and gets good results. Popularity has replaced morality. Prosperity has made us so proud that we’ve forgotten the principles on which our country was founded. Instead of boasting in the Giver of Gifts, we brag about our inflated financial statements. Pleased with our puffed-up performances we no longer seek direction from You. We’ve deliberately walked away from the Hand that paid our debt, set us free and faithfully fed us, to an unknown hand holding out perishable promises of a quick fix for short-term relief. Have mercy on us, O God, and do not annihilate us for rejecting You!
O merciful Lord, I cry out to You to come like a roaring lion – like the mighty Lion of Judah – and arouse the indifferent, impotent Church. Cause us to come trembling back to You, and stand up for what is right: the sanctity of life, the purity of marriage, and the unity of family. Heal our perverted hearts and bind up our warped minds. In these dark days, that are likely to get darker, give us courage to cash in our comfort for compassion. Impassion us with holy justice, and open our minds to the Truth: Sure as the sun rises You will appear, and if we aren’t careful we will be destroyed for our lack of knowledge. Spare us O Lord, in Jesus name. Amen.
Will you join me in crying out for a great awakening in the Church? God makes it clear that He will heal our land when we humble ourselves before Him, pray, seek His face with all our heart, and turn from our wicked ways.
A.W. Tozer defines revival as a move of God that “changes the moral climate of the community.” History shows that a true awakening leaps beyond the walls of any church and radically transforms society. If we want to be a church that really makes a difference in our community, we first need to submit to the painful revival fires – heartfelt humility, persistent prayer, wholeheartedly seek God’s face, and deliberately trust and obey.
Bill Bright writes in his book, The Coming Revival: America’s Call to Fast, Pray, and Seek God’s Face, “By nature every one of us is inclined to take the path of least resistance. But we Americans are especially notorious for avoiding pain at all cost. When it comes right down to it, most of us do not like hard work.”
Evangelist James Burns writes: Revival comes to scorch before it heals; it comes to condemn ministers and people for their unfaithful witness, for their selfish living, for their neglect of the cross, and to call them to daily renunciation, to an evangelical poverty and to a deep and daily consecration. That is why a revival has ever been unpopular with large numbers of churches. Because it says nothing to them of power (worldly ways) such as they have learned to love, or of ease, or of success; it accuses them of sin, it tells them they are dead, it calls them to awake, to renounce the world and to follow Christ. –Winkie Pratney, Revival: Its Principles and Personalities
Once again, Dr. Henry Blackaby asks, “What kind of praying have we been doing to lead our nation to the mess we’re in?”
The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective. James 5:16
Monday, November 10, 2008
Stiff-necked People
Deuteronomy 9: 13-14, 17
And the LORD said to me, "I have seen this people, and they are a stiff-necked people indeed! Let me alone, so that I may destroy them and blot out their name from under heaven.”
So I took the two tablets and threw them out of my hands, breaking them to pieces before your eyes.
O Sovereign Lord,
There’s a striking similarity between ancient Israel and the corrupt, rebellious and unruly world today. Our nation is in terrible shape! The Sacred Laws that You inscribed with Your fingers have been deliberately broken. Your Holy Name has been desecrated. With You out of sight and out of mind, we’ve become a country full of senseless, faithless, heartless, and ruthless fools who expect blessing despite our defiant disobedience.
O Lord, stir up in me a heart like Moses. He knew You intimately; therefore, he knew what was on Your heart and mind. He knew how angry You were over the blatant misconduct of his nation. Twice, he spent 40 days and 40 nights alone in Your holy presence, passionately interceding, fasting, and crying out for You to spare his people from annihilation. He believed with all his heart that You would answer him, and didn’t leave Your presence for any reason until You responded to his urgent appeal.
Lord, I can’t spend 40 minutes fasting and praying, let alone 40 days and 40 nights! Have mercy on me! Radically change my heart, O God. Draw me into the same kind of deep love relationship that Moses had with You. I want to be so enamored with You, that I’ll desire to spend endless hours in Your presence without thinking for one minute about food or drink. Fully possessed by You, I’ll fervently plea to You to spare this nation from complete obliteration. With One heart and One mind, I won’t give up until You answer me. Lord, teach me to diligently pray with enthusiasm and expectation so that Your name will be blessed in my homeland. Amen.
Will you acknowledge and cry out to God for the sin of our nation today? Will you pray for changed hearts and transformed minds? Will you admit and turn from your own sin?
Dr. Henry Blackaby asks, “What kind of praying have we been doing to lead our nation to the mess we’re in?” What changes need to be made in Your life so that God can work through you?
And the LORD said to me, "I have seen this people, and they are a stiff-necked people indeed! Let me alone, so that I may destroy them and blot out their name from under heaven.”
So I took the two tablets and threw them out of my hands, breaking them to pieces before your eyes.
O Sovereign Lord,
There’s a striking similarity between ancient Israel and the corrupt, rebellious and unruly world today. Our nation is in terrible shape! The Sacred Laws that You inscribed with Your fingers have been deliberately broken. Your Holy Name has been desecrated. With You out of sight and out of mind, we’ve become a country full of senseless, faithless, heartless, and ruthless fools who expect blessing despite our defiant disobedience.
O Lord, stir up in me a heart like Moses. He knew You intimately; therefore, he knew what was on Your heart and mind. He knew how angry You were over the blatant misconduct of his nation. Twice, he spent 40 days and 40 nights alone in Your holy presence, passionately interceding, fasting, and crying out for You to spare his people from annihilation. He believed with all his heart that You would answer him, and didn’t leave Your presence for any reason until You responded to his urgent appeal.
Lord, I can’t spend 40 minutes fasting and praying, let alone 40 days and 40 nights! Have mercy on me! Radically change my heart, O God. Draw me into the same kind of deep love relationship that Moses had with You. I want to be so enamored with You, that I’ll desire to spend endless hours in Your presence without thinking for one minute about food or drink. Fully possessed by You, I’ll fervently plea to You to spare this nation from complete obliteration. With One heart and One mind, I won’t give up until You answer me. Lord, teach me to diligently pray with enthusiasm and expectation so that Your name will be blessed in my homeland. Amen.
Will you acknowledge and cry out to God for the sin of our nation today? Will you pray for changed hearts and transformed minds? Will you admit and turn from your own sin?
Dr. Henry Blackaby asks, “What kind of praying have we been doing to lead our nation to the mess we’re in?” What changes need to be made in Your life so that God can work through you?
Friday, November 07, 2008
My Favorite Things
Psalm 105:4-5
Look to the LORD and his strength;
seek his face always.
Remember the wonders he has done.
Lord of Heaven and Earth,
Enthroned in Zion, You reign forever! Exalted above the nations, there is none like You! Robed in majesty and armed with strength, You are the Writer of wonderful words, and the Designer of magnificent marvels!
Bitten by distress, discouragement and disappointment; stung by sin, suffering and sorrow, I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad.
You are my Eternal Father. In love, You blessed, chose, adopted and accepted me into Your royal family forever. (1 John 3:1, Ephesians 1:3-8)
You take great delight in me, quiet me with Your love, and rejoice over me with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)
I am the apple of Your eye, and You cover me under Your soft feathers. Ah! Wrapped up in You, I am safe and warm in the cold, dark world. (Psalm 17:8, Psalm 91:4)
You send angels to watch over me and keep me from all harm. (Psalm 91:11)
I am an heir to the riches of Your glorious inheritance in Christ Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:17, Ephesians 1:18)
I am forgiven of ALL my sins; healed of ALL my diseases, redeemed from the dark dungeon of despair, crowned with love and compassion, and treated to a myriad of great gifts. (Psalm 103:1-5)
My name is written in heaven and a room is reserved for me there, in Jesus name! (Luke 10:20)
You remember me, and will bless me. (Psalm 115:12)
You are faithful to all Your promises and loving toward all You have made. (Psalm 145:13)
You will fulfill Your purpose for me. (Psalm 138:8)
Focusing on who You are, and who I am in You, is my favorite thing. When I claim Your promises my sadness turns to singing. I praise and exalt You for the gifts You’ve so generously given me in Christ Jesus! There is none like You, my Father and King! Hallelujah! Amen.
This week, in the midst of disappointment and distress, I found myself singing “Favorite Things,” from “The Sound of Music.” I changed the words:
When distress bites,
When sin stings,
When I’m feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don’t feel so bad.
My spirits were lifted when I began searching my Bible, looking up to the Lord and His strength, and thinking of the wonders of His love for me. These were a few of my favorite things. What are a few of your favorite things?
I encourage you to write them on a note card, carry them with you wherever you go, post them on the bathroom mirror and throughout your home and office. Then, when you’re bitten, stung, and sad remember them and you won’t feel so bad.
Look to the LORD and his strength;
seek his face always.
Remember the wonders he has done.
Lord of Heaven and Earth,
Enthroned in Zion, You reign forever! Exalted above the nations, there is none like You! Robed in majesty and armed with strength, You are the Writer of wonderful words, and the Designer of magnificent marvels!
Bitten by distress, discouragement and disappointment; stung by sin, suffering and sorrow, I simply remember my favorite things and then I don’t feel so bad.
You are my Eternal Father. In love, You blessed, chose, adopted and accepted me into Your royal family forever. (1 John 3:1, Ephesians 1:3-8)
You take great delight in me, quiet me with Your love, and rejoice over me with singing. (Zephaniah 3:17)
I am the apple of Your eye, and You cover me under Your soft feathers. Ah! Wrapped up in You, I am safe and warm in the cold, dark world. (Psalm 17:8, Psalm 91:4)
You send angels to watch over me and keep me from all harm. (Psalm 91:11)
I am an heir to the riches of Your glorious inheritance in Christ Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:17, Ephesians 1:18)
I am forgiven of ALL my sins; healed of ALL my diseases, redeemed from the dark dungeon of despair, crowned with love and compassion, and treated to a myriad of great gifts. (Psalm 103:1-5)
My name is written in heaven and a room is reserved for me there, in Jesus name! (Luke 10:20)
You remember me, and will bless me. (Psalm 115:12)
You are faithful to all Your promises and loving toward all You have made. (Psalm 145:13)
You will fulfill Your purpose for me. (Psalm 138:8)
Focusing on who You are, and who I am in You, is my favorite thing. When I claim Your promises my sadness turns to singing. I praise and exalt You for the gifts You’ve so generously given me in Christ Jesus! There is none like You, my Father and King! Hallelujah! Amen.
This week, in the midst of disappointment and distress, I found myself singing “Favorite Things,” from “The Sound of Music.” I changed the words:
When distress bites,
When sin stings,
When I’m feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
And then I don’t feel so bad.
My spirits were lifted when I began searching my Bible, looking up to the Lord and His strength, and thinking of the wonders of His love for me. These were a few of my favorite things. What are a few of your favorite things?
I encourage you to write them on a note card, carry them with you wherever you go, post them on the bathroom mirror and throughout your home and office. Then, when you’re bitten, stung, and sad remember them and you won’t feel so bad.
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Commanded to Pray
1Timothy 2:1-2, 8
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
Eternal, Immortal, Invisible King, You are the only God! Blessing and honor and glory are Yours forever and ever! Amen!
Thank You for the life saving grace of Your Son, Jesus Christ. He is my blessed and only hope for the future. Even though I’ve made a million mistakes and have many faults, You’ve faithfully poured out Your endless love and mercy on me. If it weren’t for Your unlimited patience, I’d be eternally condemned for the countless ways I’ve offended You. But, because of Your tenderhearted compassion and ceaseless kindness, I’m guaranteed a home in heaven, signed and sealed in Jesus’ blood.
Therefore, out of deep heartfelt gratitude, I will obey Your orders for outstanding living in an outrageous society. Not only will I honor the position of the next President of the United States by accepting his authority, I will also do as You say and raise up holy hands to pray persistently and passionately for him to rule our country with justice and goodness for our good and Your glory. My heart’s desire is to live freely, simply, and quietly in this land blessing, honoring and glorifying Your kingdom forever and ever. Amen.
God’s Word tells us exactly what we should have been doing, and should do going forward: pray for everyone – especially our president so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
I urge you, put aside your anger and put on passionate and persistent PRAYER for President Barack Obama! The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective. (James 5:16)
Here are some more reasons to be thankful:
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
I want men everywhere to lift up holy hands in prayer, without anger or disputing.
Eternal, Immortal, Invisible King, You are the only God! Blessing and honor and glory are Yours forever and ever! Amen!
Thank You for the life saving grace of Your Son, Jesus Christ. He is my blessed and only hope for the future. Even though I’ve made a million mistakes and have many faults, You’ve faithfully poured out Your endless love and mercy on me. If it weren’t for Your unlimited patience, I’d be eternally condemned for the countless ways I’ve offended You. But, because of Your tenderhearted compassion and ceaseless kindness, I’m guaranteed a home in heaven, signed and sealed in Jesus’ blood.
Therefore, out of deep heartfelt gratitude, I will obey Your orders for outstanding living in an outrageous society. Not only will I honor the position of the next President of the United States by accepting his authority, I will also do as You say and raise up holy hands to pray persistently and passionately for him to rule our country with justice and goodness for our good and Your glory. My heart’s desire is to live freely, simply, and quietly in this land blessing, honoring and glorifying Your kingdom forever and ever. Amen.
God’s Word tells us exactly what we should have been doing, and should do going forward: pray for everyone – especially our president so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
I urge you, put aside your anger and put on passionate and persistent PRAYER for President Barack Obama! The prayers of a righteous man are powerful and effective. (James 5:16)
Here are some more reasons to be thankful:
- You have a roof over your head, and may even own your home
- You have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- You have air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter
- You live in a safe neighborhood protected by well-trained and dedicated emergency personnel
- You have income
- You have enough clothes in your closet to dress a community in Congo and enough stuff in your garage to furnish an entire village in Mozambique
- You have the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time and see more food in a moment than Darfur has seen in the last year
- You have social, religious and political freedoms that are the envy of everyone in the world
- You have a cell phone and computer
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Accepting Authority
1 Peter 2:13-17
Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
Great God who governs the globe, You are the highest, most supreme ruler in all the land. All other authority is established by You for our good and Your glory. While there are civil laws in the land, Your Word is our utmost command. No matter who reigns as President of the United States, You expect all Christians to accept his authority and act like citizens of Your kingdom.
By Your power, help me to leave the things of the world and return to You, my first love. For too long, I’ve pursued personal pleasure and prosperity instead of a personal relationship with You. Walking hand-in-hand with You, I’ll see every human as Your valuable creation. While they may be ignoring You, and You may not accept their actions, You never stop yearning for them. Instead of condemning the ungodly, I’ll freely serve them. My good deeds, done in the light of Your love, might cure their ignorance, draw them to You, and save them from eternal damnation.
By Your mercy, help me to love Your family. For too long, there has been division in the Church, across denominations over doctrine. Because of our bickering and brokenness, we’ve reflected a poor image of You to the watching world. The bottom line is that You suffered, died, were buried, and rose to glorious new life in order to save EVERYONE who believes. With that in mind, I’ll set aside my own preferences in order to be a better Body builder. My good deeds, done in compassion to other Christians, will silence the critical crowds, reflect Your radiant image, and attract people to the beautiful Body of Christ.
With all due respect, I’ll love You with all my heart, mind, soul and strength, and obey Your orders for outstanding living in an outrageous society. Without compromising my conscience, I’ll honor the position of the next President of the United States by accepting his authority and living among the outlaws in such a superior way that even the pagans will praise Your glorious name. Amen.
Throughout the ages, Christians have lived under oppressive regimes. When Peter wrote this letter, believers were subject to the totalitarian government of Nero, a notoriously cruel tyrant. During Nero’s terrifying reign, Peter penned these words to encourage the persecuted Church, and God preserved them for us today.
Let them be an encouragement to you also. Regardless of whom the next president is, God sets the standard for His family. As believers we are compelled to treat everyone with dignity even those we disagree with; love the family of God despite our denominational and doctrinal differences; fear God; and respect government as God’s emissary.
Remember how much Jesus suffered for you. In the light of His love, live for Him, die for Him, and let your light shine for Him in the darkness so that all men will notice Him and praise Him.
Jesus said, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king.
Great God who governs the globe, You are the highest, most supreme ruler in all the land. All other authority is established by You for our good and Your glory. While there are civil laws in the land, Your Word is our utmost command. No matter who reigns as President of the United States, You expect all Christians to accept his authority and act like citizens of Your kingdom.
By Your power, help me to leave the things of the world and return to You, my first love. For too long, I’ve pursued personal pleasure and prosperity instead of a personal relationship with You. Walking hand-in-hand with You, I’ll see every human as Your valuable creation. While they may be ignoring You, and You may not accept their actions, You never stop yearning for them. Instead of condemning the ungodly, I’ll freely serve them. My good deeds, done in the light of Your love, might cure their ignorance, draw them to You, and save them from eternal damnation.
By Your mercy, help me to love Your family. For too long, there has been division in the Church, across denominations over doctrine. Because of our bickering and brokenness, we’ve reflected a poor image of You to the watching world. The bottom line is that You suffered, died, were buried, and rose to glorious new life in order to save EVERYONE who believes. With that in mind, I’ll set aside my own preferences in order to be a better Body builder. My good deeds, done in compassion to other Christians, will silence the critical crowds, reflect Your radiant image, and attract people to the beautiful Body of Christ.
With all due respect, I’ll love You with all my heart, mind, soul and strength, and obey Your orders for outstanding living in an outrageous society. Without compromising my conscience, I’ll honor the position of the next President of the United States by accepting his authority and living among the outlaws in such a superior way that even the pagans will praise Your glorious name. Amen.
Throughout the ages, Christians have lived under oppressive regimes. When Peter wrote this letter, believers were subject to the totalitarian government of Nero, a notoriously cruel tyrant. During Nero’s terrifying reign, Peter penned these words to encourage the persecuted Church, and God preserved them for us today.
Let them be an encouragement to you also. Regardless of whom the next president is, God sets the standard for His family. As believers we are compelled to treat everyone with dignity even those we disagree with; love the family of God despite our denominational and doctrinal differences; fear God; and respect government as God’s emissary.
Remember how much Jesus suffered for you. In the light of His love, live for Him, die for Him, and let your light shine for Him in the darkness so that all men will notice Him and praise Him.
Jesus said, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Appointed Authority
Romans 13:1b
All authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.
Daniel 4:17
The Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world. He gives them to anyone he chooses—even to the lowliest of people.
Great King over all the earth!
How awesome are You, Lord Most High!
Your rule and Your reign are everlasting. There is no end to Your magnificent kingdom. The prime ministers, princes and presidents of the earth are powerless paupers compared to You. Sitting enthroned above the earth, You do as You wish among the angels of heaven and the people of earth. No one can stop You or question Your absolute authority. Ruling with a scepter of justice, all of Your acts are fair and true.
From Your holy throne in heaven, You appoint people to positions of power on earth for our good and Your glory. You had a purpose for the oppressor Pharaoh, the conqueror Nebuchadnezzar, the terminator Nero, and the people-pleaser Pilate. Although inherently wicked, their rule was required for Your ultimate work in the world. Likewise, You have a providential plan for the next President of the United States. Whether he’s godly or ungodly, give us the grace to understand that whoever governs this great land will submit to Your Most High command.
No matter who wins the election we will sing praises to You, our King because You are sovereign over everything. Regardless of whom sits enthroned with power on earth, Your kingdom will come and You will be exalted over every nation. Belonging to You, every world leader will bow down and serve You despite their power, position, and pride. To You to be the glory and power forever and ever. Amen.
As believers we must acknowledge that all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by Him for our good and His glory. He has a plan in place for our next President.
All authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.
Daniel 4:17
The Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world. He gives them to anyone he chooses—even to the lowliest of people.
Great King over all the earth!
How awesome are You, Lord Most High!
Your rule and Your reign are everlasting. There is no end to Your magnificent kingdom. The prime ministers, princes and presidents of the earth are powerless paupers compared to You. Sitting enthroned above the earth, You do as You wish among the angels of heaven and the people of earth. No one can stop You or question Your absolute authority. Ruling with a scepter of justice, all of Your acts are fair and true.
From Your holy throne in heaven, You appoint people to positions of power on earth for our good and Your glory. You had a purpose for the oppressor Pharaoh, the conqueror Nebuchadnezzar, the terminator Nero, and the people-pleaser Pilate. Although inherently wicked, their rule was required for Your ultimate work in the world. Likewise, You have a providential plan for the next President of the United States. Whether he’s godly or ungodly, give us the grace to understand that whoever governs this great land will submit to Your Most High command.
No matter who wins the election we will sing praises to You, our King because You are sovereign over everything. Regardless of whom sits enthroned with power on earth, Your kingdom will come and You will be exalted over every nation. Belonging to You, every world leader will bow down and serve You despite their power, position, and pride. To You to be the glory and power forever and ever. Amen.
As believers we must acknowledge that all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by Him for our good and His glory. He has a plan in place for our next President.
Monday, November 03, 2008
Divine Healing
2 Chronicles 7:14
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Jehovah-rapha, Healing Lord,
You say IF my people, who are called by my name – Christian – will humble themselves and pray and seek Your face and turn from their wicked ways, THEN You will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. You make the diagnosis for our nation painfully clear, yet millions of people who call themselves Christians are asleep and unconscious, unaware of the remedy for our ailing country.
Polluted with their worldly plans and possessions, most Christians know little about spiritual discipline and living a Spirit-filled life. They’re complacent, at ease, thinking they have it all and are in need of nothing but an inspiring word on Sunday morning. Our abundance has led to greed. Our freedom has become a license for lewdness. Our religious heritage has been deemed irrelevant. Haughty and independent, many in the Church have abandoned their first love and have no idea how far they’ve fallen. Self-absorbed, they’re clueless about the cancer that is consuming the entire Body and spewing into their beloved country.
Brought into this world with a strong heart by our Founding Fathers, we’ve failed to exercise discretion, and have eaten a steady diet of humanism resulting in deteriorating heart disease. O Lord, surely the Church needs a visit from the Great Physician! Come quickly and heal the sick souls who are called by Your name.
Following Your precise prescription, we will discover the cure for our critical condition. Wake us up from our sweet dreams! Compel us, by Your Spirit, to humbly admit that we have a serious sin problem, prayerfully bring our afflictions to You, and continually seek Your advice by spending time in Your Word, the Bible. Then, You will hear our cries and alleviate the ailing Body.
With a fully restored Body, Your heart, and one name - Christian, we will see the sad state of our country. In Your strength, we will stand up and lead the nation to turn around and follow You. Then, You will heal our land for the glory of Your name. Amen.
Many in the Church would agree that our nation is in grave condition and frantically needs the healing hand of Jesus. Will you obediently stand before God today and admit your own faults and failures? Will you then confess the complacency of the Church; acknowledging that we as a Body haven’t exercised discretion and have eaten a steady diet of humanism? Will you concede that our abundance has led to greed, our freedom has become a license for lewdness, and our religious heritage has been deemed irrelevant?
God is calling the Church - everyone who calls themselves by the Christian name - to stand up and lead the nation to turn around and follow Him. Our only hope is in a supernatural visit from the Great Physician, and He will only come when we, as a Body, humble ourselves and pray and seek His face and turn from our wicked ways.
Deadly Diseases from A-Z
Abscess of Anger, Arrogance, Adultery, Alcoholism, Abortion
Blisters of Bitterness, Boasting, Brokenness – Broken Homes, Broken Relationships
Cut of Criticism, Complaining, Complacency, Carelessness
Disease of Death, Deceit, Divorce, Disrespect, Defiance
Epidemic of Envy, Evil Tongue
Fever of Fear, Fornication
Gash of Gossip, Greed, Gluttony, Gambling
Hemorrhage of Hate, Hypocrisy, Homosexuality, Humanism
Irritation of Immorality, Impatience, Idolatry, Impurity, Irreverence, Individualism, Independence, Insensitivity, Injustice
Joints that ache from Jealousy, Judging
Kink of Killjoy, Knavery
Lesion of Lying, Laziness, Lack of Love, Lust, Liberalism, Legalism
Malignancy of Murdering millions of unborn babies, Materialism
Nausea of Nagging, Nastiness
Oppression of Oblivion, Obnoxiousness, Obstinacy
Pain of Praylessness, Procrastination, Pride, Pornography, Personal Plans, Possessions
Queasiness of a Quick Temper
Rash of Rebellion, Retaliation, Rejection, Relativism
Sting of Sex, Sorrow, Sensationalism, Self-sufficiency, Self-absorption, Selfishiness
Toxin of Temptation
Ulcer of Unforgiveness, Ungratefulness, Unbelief
Virus of Vanity, Vengeance
Wounds of Worry, Wrong Friends, Worldly Entertainment
Yaws of Yelling
Zits of Zero Time With You
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Jehovah-rapha, Healing Lord,
You say IF my people, who are called by my name – Christian – will humble themselves and pray and seek Your face and turn from their wicked ways, THEN You will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. You make the diagnosis for our nation painfully clear, yet millions of people who call themselves Christians are asleep and unconscious, unaware of the remedy for our ailing country.
Polluted with their worldly plans and possessions, most Christians know little about spiritual discipline and living a Spirit-filled life. They’re complacent, at ease, thinking they have it all and are in need of nothing but an inspiring word on Sunday morning. Our abundance has led to greed. Our freedom has become a license for lewdness. Our religious heritage has been deemed irrelevant. Haughty and independent, many in the Church have abandoned their first love and have no idea how far they’ve fallen. Self-absorbed, they’re clueless about the cancer that is consuming the entire Body and spewing into their beloved country.
Brought into this world with a strong heart by our Founding Fathers, we’ve failed to exercise discretion, and have eaten a steady diet of humanism resulting in deteriorating heart disease. O Lord, surely the Church needs a visit from the Great Physician! Come quickly and heal the sick souls who are called by Your name.
Following Your precise prescription, we will discover the cure for our critical condition. Wake us up from our sweet dreams! Compel us, by Your Spirit, to humbly admit that we have a serious sin problem, prayerfully bring our afflictions to You, and continually seek Your advice by spending time in Your Word, the Bible. Then, You will hear our cries and alleviate the ailing Body.
With a fully restored Body, Your heart, and one name - Christian, we will see the sad state of our country. In Your strength, we will stand up and lead the nation to turn around and follow You. Then, You will heal our land for the glory of Your name. Amen.
Many in the Church would agree that our nation is in grave condition and frantically needs the healing hand of Jesus. Will you obediently stand before God today and admit your own faults and failures? Will you then confess the complacency of the Church; acknowledging that we as a Body haven’t exercised discretion and have eaten a steady diet of humanism? Will you concede that our abundance has led to greed, our freedom has become a license for lewdness, and our religious heritage has been deemed irrelevant?
God is calling the Church - everyone who calls themselves by the Christian name - to stand up and lead the nation to turn around and follow Him. Our only hope is in a supernatural visit from the Great Physician, and He will only come when we, as a Body, humble ourselves and pray and seek His face and turn from our wicked ways.
Deadly Diseases from A-Z
Abscess of Anger, Arrogance, Adultery, Alcoholism, Abortion
Blisters of Bitterness, Boasting, Brokenness – Broken Homes, Broken Relationships
Cut of Criticism, Complaining, Complacency, Carelessness
Disease of Death, Deceit, Divorce, Disrespect, Defiance
Epidemic of Envy, Evil Tongue
Fever of Fear, Fornication
Gash of Gossip, Greed, Gluttony, Gambling
Hemorrhage of Hate, Hypocrisy, Homosexuality, Humanism
Irritation of Immorality, Impatience, Idolatry, Impurity, Irreverence, Individualism, Independence, Insensitivity, Injustice
Joints that ache from Jealousy, Judging
Kink of Killjoy, Knavery
Lesion of Lying, Laziness, Lack of Love, Lust, Liberalism, Legalism
Malignancy of Murdering millions of unborn babies, Materialism
Nausea of Nagging, Nastiness
Oppression of Oblivion, Obnoxiousness, Obstinacy
Pain of Praylessness, Procrastination, Pride, Pornography, Personal Plans, Possessions
Queasiness of a Quick Temper
Rash of Rebellion, Retaliation, Rejection, Relativism
Sting of Sex, Sorrow, Sensationalism, Self-sufficiency, Self-absorption, Selfishiness
Toxin of Temptation
Ulcer of Unforgiveness, Ungratefulness, Unbelief
Virus of Vanity, Vengeance
Wounds of Worry, Wrong Friends, Worldly Entertainment
Yaws of Yelling
Zits of Zero Time With You
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