Here we are almost to Christmas and I am wondering where the year went. But let's slow down and contemplate Christmas before moving our thoughts to the New Year, the coming of which is a relief for many. I know so many of you are struggling right now, our thoughts and prayers are with you. I pray that the scripture below from Isaiah gives you hope in the fact that we have a Mighty God who cares about us and those around us. Let's meditate on the aspects of Christ below and consider the Child given to redeem us and bring comfort and hope.
If there are any specific prayers we can focus on for you, please feel free to contact Shelley and I at elohimprayer@gmail.com.
Isaiah 9:6
For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
Father,
Thank you for the gift of our Lord who is a Wonderful Counselor when we need wisdom and hope. Thank you that when we "see" him we also "see" you our Mighty God and Eternal Father. We know that he is truly the Prince of everlasting Peace and that we can draw from the living waters of Christ to find our own peace in this world.
Be with us as we contemplate the gift of Christ and all the spiritual blessings of knowing Him.
Blessings to you.
Carol
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Strength in the Lord
"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13
What is happening in your life today, dear reader? Is your faith being tested? I exhort you to stand fast in the faith. Be brave. Be strong. Watch for the crafty ways the evil one attacks God's people. Resist him and draw near to God.
Praying blessings on you today,
Shelley
Dearest Lord Jesus, help us. We are weak. Increase our faith as your word says you will do. Give us discernment and eyes to see the attacks of the enemy. Help us lift shields of faith to put out his fiery arrows. Thank you for your promises and your protection. Amen.
What is happening in your life today, dear reader? Is your faith being tested? I exhort you to stand fast in the faith. Be brave. Be strong. Watch for the crafty ways the evil one attacks God's people. Resist him and draw near to God.
Praying blessings on you today,
Shelley
Dearest Lord Jesus, help us. We are weak. Increase our faith as your word says you will do. Give us discernment and eyes to see the attacks of the enemy. Help us lift shields of faith to put out his fiery arrows. Thank you for your promises and your protection. Amen.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Give thanks all year
We've survived another Thanksgiving holiday! But the giving of thanks should not end there.
Someone not from the United States asked my husband last week if he knew why we celebrate Thanksgiving, and he had to think about it for a time. Finally, he answered, "Because the pilgrims and indians sat down to share some food and be thankful."
We laugh about that now, but it's just a very bottom line answer. The pilgrims were thankful for their religious freedoms (and dare I say, thankful for the friendly company of the indians). Perhaps the indians were thankful for their abundance and the friendly company of the newcomers. Whatever their reasons for instituting such a holiday, we have much to be thankful for today and every day throughout the year.
Are you healthy? Mobile? Breathing?
Do you have shelter from the cold?
Do you have food to fill your stomach?
What other blessings are you experiencing? I am continually thankful for my family who loves me in spite of many flaws. For healthy children and a loving husband. For vehicles that run and have working heaters. I'm thankful for the work we have and sun that shines. All these are gifts from a heavenly Father who loves me.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:1-5
May you know His many blessings today and feel His love every day.
Shelley
Someone not from the United States asked my husband last week if he knew why we celebrate Thanksgiving, and he had to think about it for a time. Finally, he answered, "Because the pilgrims and indians sat down to share some food and be thankful."
We laugh about that now, but it's just a very bottom line answer. The pilgrims were thankful for their religious freedoms (and dare I say, thankful for the friendly company of the indians). Perhaps the indians were thankful for their abundance and the friendly company of the newcomers. Whatever their reasons for instituting such a holiday, we have much to be thankful for today and every day throughout the year.
Are you healthy? Mobile? Breathing?
Do you have shelter from the cold?
Do you have food to fill your stomach?
What other blessings are you experiencing? I am continually thankful for my family who loves me in spite of many flaws. For healthy children and a loving husband. For vehicles that run and have working heaters. I'm thankful for the work we have and sun that shines. All these are gifts from a heavenly Father who loves me.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul;
And all that is within me, bless His holy name!
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget not all His benefits:
Who forgives all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from destruction,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,
Who satisfies your mouth with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:1-5
May you know His many blessings today and feel His love every day.
Shelley
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Shaping your prayers
Worry has a powerful impact on our lives, doesn't it? It invades our thoughts. It tends to shape our actions and interactions with others. Sometimes the shaping is beneficial, but worry often causes increased - and unnecessary - stress.
I'll admit it: I'm a worrier. From something as trivial as what I'm wearing to more weighty issues as how my Christian testimony affects others, I spend time and energy fretting. Is this shirt appropriate and does it look okay? Did I upset my friend with that comment I meant to be funny? Are my kids healthy and getting enough sunshine, exercise, variety of foods? Am I being a faithful witness, turning others to Christ or turning them away? On and on it goes.
Yes, I'm a worrier. But I'm not supposed to be. Worry takes the focus off God, and His power in my life is diminished when I worry. It says I don't trust God to be Himself - good, loving, kind, generous, to name only a few of His attributes.
I love how The Message translates Philippians 4: "Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life."
Wonderful indeed. Praying in faith takes the worry from my life and shapes it into a petition, a praise of God's goodness. Praying in faith takes the power out of my hands, out of everyone's control, and puts it back on God where it belongs. It allows God to reveal Himself and His nature to me, which allows me to reveal it to others.
What are your worries, dear readers? How can you shape them into a petition or a praise? Spend time today simply asking God to fix that situation burdening your heart, then thank Him for doing it. Thank Him for His faithfulness. He loves you!
Praying many blessings on you today,
Shelley
Heavenly Father, please take these burdens from us. Help us to give them to you. Help us live according to your word, which says to praise you instead of worry. We thank you for your faithfulness to us, for your love and your power and your personal touch in our lives. As we pray, may we focus on you and on the sacrifice made for us. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
I'll admit it: I'm a worrier. From something as trivial as what I'm wearing to more weighty issues as how my Christian testimony affects others, I spend time and energy fretting. Is this shirt appropriate and does it look okay? Did I upset my friend with that comment I meant to be funny? Are my kids healthy and getting enough sunshine, exercise, variety of foods? Am I being a faithful witness, turning others to Christ or turning them away? On and on it goes.
Yes, I'm a worrier. But I'm not supposed to be. Worry takes the focus off God, and His power in my life is diminished when I worry. It says I don't trust God to be Himself - good, loving, kind, generous, to name only a few of His attributes.
I love how The Message translates Philippians 4: "Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life."
Wonderful indeed. Praying in faith takes the worry from my life and shapes it into a petition, a praise of God's goodness. Praying in faith takes the power out of my hands, out of everyone's control, and puts it back on God where it belongs. It allows God to reveal Himself and His nature to me, which allows me to reveal it to others.
What are your worries, dear readers? How can you shape them into a petition or a praise? Spend time today simply asking God to fix that situation burdening your heart, then thank Him for doing it. Thank Him for His faithfulness. He loves you!
Praying many blessings on you today,
Shelley
Heavenly Father, please take these burdens from us. Help us to give them to you. Help us live according to your word, which says to praise you instead of worry. We thank you for your faithfulness to us, for your love and your power and your personal touch in our lives. As we pray, may we focus on you and on the sacrifice made for us. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Obstacles and Creative Solutions
"Your pipes are full of tree roots. It will cost $5,000 to repair them and see what other problems we're facing."
The nice man from our local plumbing company stands in my front yard on this gray afternoon and speaks as if money grows from those very trees invading my pipes. He doesn't even blink as the words fly past his lips.
But I blink. A lot. And I stare. Did he just say five thousand dollars?
My jaw drops and air rushes from my lungs. "It might as well be $500,000. We don't have that kind of money." And in the quiet of my stunned heart, I whisper. Please Jesus. Help us.
This world is full of obstacles. Just as we scale one hurdle, another looms in front of us. If it's not a financial hurdle, it's an emotional mountain to climb. Or walls of relational or physical or mental or spiritual barriers.
Here's my point, dear readers: There will always be something to upset our balance if we allow it. If we insist on seeing the world around us, we will be brought to the world's level. But if we choose instead to see the God who created this world, if we choose to see His power and love and creative solutions, we can leap over those hurdles and walls with room to spare.
Consider the power at work within you. Rise above your circumstances. Allow God to show you His power and love. Be open to His creative solution.
Blessings to you today,
Shelley
"For by You I can run against a troop. By my God I can leap over a wall." Psalm 18:29
Father God, thank you for your faithfulness and love. Thank you for your promises of deliverance. Show us the solutions to our difficulties and give us the courage to act. By your power, may we run against troops and leap over walls. In Jesus' mighty name we ask these things. Amen.
The nice man from our local plumbing company stands in my front yard on this gray afternoon and speaks as if money grows from those very trees invading my pipes. He doesn't even blink as the words fly past his lips.
But I blink. A lot. And I stare. Did he just say five thousand dollars?
My jaw drops and air rushes from my lungs. "It might as well be $500,000. We don't have that kind of money." And in the quiet of my stunned heart, I whisper. Please Jesus. Help us.
This world is full of obstacles. Just as we scale one hurdle, another looms in front of us. If it's not a financial hurdle, it's an emotional mountain to climb. Or walls of relational or physical or mental or spiritual barriers.
Here's my point, dear readers: There will always be something to upset our balance if we allow it. If we insist on seeing the world around us, we will be brought to the world's level. But if we choose instead to see the God who created this world, if we choose to see His power and love and creative solutions, we can leap over those hurdles and walls with room to spare.
Consider the power at work within you. Rise above your circumstances. Allow God to show you His power and love. Be open to His creative solution.
Blessings to you today,
Shelley
"For by You I can run against a troop. By my God I can leap over a wall." Psalm 18:29
Father God, thank you for your faithfulness and love. Thank you for your promises of deliverance. Show us the solutions to our difficulties and give us the courage to act. By your power, may we run against troops and leap over walls. In Jesus' mighty name we ask these things. Amen.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Be Still and Know
Good morning prayers. So sorry for the lack of activity on the blog, this is an exciting week for us. We are attending our first event with the prayer beads and of course have lots of last minute details to firm up.
This morning I was prompted to blog on the phrase Be still and know that I am God. What exactly does it mean to know that He is God? Maybe it is that the character of God does not change in times of great challenge and great joy. There are many characteristics of God that we are familiar with but God is revealed in all of scripture in many ways that don't readily come to mind. Scripture teaches that God is All-Powerful, All Knowing, All Caring, Exalted in the Heavens but it also teaches He is our shepherd, our nurturer, our justice, our hope, our provider, creator, gate to eternal life, light in the darkness......shall I go on?? There are references to God that are high and lofty and remind us of his kingly status, then there are references that make Him personal and present, and available to our everyday lives. Psalm 46 starts out with the exclamation God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble; therefore we will not fear. Let's call on the God who wants to personally touch us with compassion for our daily lives and ask him to open our hearts and minds to accept His nature of love toward us.
Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
Father,
Draw us to a time of being still with you. Bring peace to our hearts and open our minds to contemplate and rely on a characteristic of your nature that is new to our experience with you. Thank you that we can know you more fully through scripture. I pray that as we meditate on these thoughts today that you would reveal yourself to us in very specific ways to strengthen our hearts and our faith.
In Jesus' name.
Blessings,
Carol
This morning I was prompted to blog on the phrase Be still and know that I am God. What exactly does it mean to know that He is God? Maybe it is that the character of God does not change in times of great challenge and great joy. There are many characteristics of God that we are familiar with but God is revealed in all of scripture in many ways that don't readily come to mind. Scripture teaches that God is All-Powerful, All Knowing, All Caring, Exalted in the Heavens but it also teaches He is our shepherd, our nurturer, our justice, our hope, our provider, creator, gate to eternal life, light in the darkness......shall I go on?? There are references to God that are high and lofty and remind us of his kingly status, then there are references that make Him personal and present, and available to our everyday lives. Psalm 46 starts out with the exclamation God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble; therefore we will not fear. Let's call on the God who wants to personally touch us with compassion for our daily lives and ask him to open our hearts and minds to accept His nature of love toward us.
Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
Father,
Draw us to a time of being still with you. Bring peace to our hearts and open our minds to contemplate and rely on a characteristic of your nature that is new to our experience with you. Thank you that we can know you more fully through scripture. I pray that as we meditate on these thoughts today that you would reveal yourself to us in very specific ways to strengthen our hearts and our faith.
In Jesus' name.
Blessings,
Carol
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Human Life, Intimacy and Awe
Psalm 139 is one of the most profound writings in scripture on God "knowing" those he created - which is each and everyone of us. This psalm defies religious beliefs and cultural boundaries; it speaks to those who love Him and those who choose not to walk with Him.
David acknowledged God's intimacy with him from before birth. Long before David could choose God, God had chosen David. What an incredible truth! As you read through David's prayer notice that he is overwhelmed by the realization that God created and knew him even before the womb AND that God still knows him intimately. As David sits in the presence of God, he voices his awe and deep devotion to the God of his life. Please pray though the Psalm 139 below and as you pray consider how your view of yourself and others will be changed today.
Blessings,
Carol
Lord,
I acknowledge that you knew each of us before we were formed. This is such an incredible thought that my mind can't fully comprehend it. Father, help us understand the intimacy of life with you. Help us to see ourselves and others with your eyes. Draw us to you in ways we have not yet experienced.
2You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You understand my thought from afar.
3You scrutinize my path and my lying down,
And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.
4Even before there is a word on my tongue,
Behold, O LORD, You know it all.
5You have enclosed me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is too high, I cannot attain to it.
7Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
8If I ascend to heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.
9If I take the wings of the dawn,
If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,
10Even there Your hand will lead me,
And Your right hand will lay hold of me.
11If I say, "Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,
And the light around me will be night,"
12Even the darkness is not dark to You,
And the night is as bright as the day
Darkness and light are alike to You.
13For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.
15My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
16Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them.
17How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand
When I awake, I am still with You.
19O that You would slay the wicked, O God;
Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed.
20For they speak against You wickedly,
And Your enemies take Your name in vain.
21Do I not hate those who hate You, O LORD?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?
22I hate them with the utmost hatred;
They have become my enemies.
23Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me and know my anxious thoughts;
24And see if there be any hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.
David acknowledged God's intimacy with him from before birth. Long before David could choose God, God had chosen David. What an incredible truth! As you read through David's prayer notice that he is overwhelmed by the realization that God created and knew him even before the womb AND that God still knows him intimately. As David sits in the presence of God, he voices his awe and deep devotion to the God of his life. Please pray though the Psalm 139 below and as you pray consider how your view of yourself and others will be changed today.
Blessings,
Carol
Lord,
I acknowledge that you knew each of us before we were formed. This is such an incredible thought that my mind can't fully comprehend it. Father, help us understand the intimacy of life with you. Help us to see ourselves and others with your eyes. Draw us to you in ways we have not yet experienced.
Psalm 139
O LORD, You have searched me and known me.2You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You understand my thought from afar.
3You scrutinize my path and my lying down,
And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.
4Even before there is a word on my tongue,
Behold, O LORD, You know it all.
5You have enclosed me behind and before,
And laid Your hand upon me.
6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
It is too high, I cannot attain to it.
7Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from Your presence?
8If I ascend to heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.
9If I take the wings of the dawn,
If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea,
10Even there Your hand will lead me,
And Your right hand will lay hold of me.
11If I say, "Surely the darkness will overwhelm me,
And the light around me will be night,"
12Even the darkness is not dark to You,
And the night is as bright as the day
Darkness and light are alike to You.
13For You formed my inward parts;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Wonderful are Your works,
And my soul knows it very well.
15My frame was not hidden from You,
When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth;
16Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book were all written
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them.
17How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How vast is the sum of them!
18If I should count them, they would outnumber the sand
When I awake, I am still with You.
19O that You would slay the wicked, O God;
Depart from me, therefore, men of bloodshed.
20For they speak against You wickedly,
And Your enemies take Your name in vain.
21Do I not hate those who hate You, O LORD?
And do I not loathe those who rise up against You?
22I hate them with the utmost hatred;
They have become my enemies.
23Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me and know my anxious thoughts;
24And see if there be any hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Light in the Darkness
I was driving to work early this morning and was struck by an image from nature. It was still dark but the moon was shining bright over the Rocky Mountains. Glory be what a beautiful sight!! As I drove towards that image, a small, wispy cloud moved horizontally in front of the moon. The moon was shining through the cloud from above, below, and ever so gently through its wispy tendrils. I could barely take my eyes off it. While continuing my trek to work and gazing at the moon, the words "light in the darkness" came to mind and made me think of the scriptural truths of the light that Christians bring to the darkness in another.
I often find myself feeling quite guilty at my human failings and of the fact that others see them. I can be moody and anxious, and my faith falters at times when I look at obstacles that seem bigger than I. But this morning as I looked at the light pouring through the cloud, I felt the Lord tell me that it is natural for the light to be filtered through the cloak of humanity. Glimmers of light are used by God to bring another soul to Him. Glimmers of light through a struggle can offer hope to another. Glimmers of light bring joy and peace to someone who is hurting.
Jesus is the true Light of mankind and we are but a reflection of His light. We gain His light in our own lives as we pray and read scripture and then practice its truth. The light of Jesus shines through my character and my life as I live to show others how much He loves them. The light of Jesus shines through your character and your life as you show others His love for them. It is the nature of God to move while using a human vessel. Scripture indicates that when perfection comes in the form of Jesus that the shadows are removed. I have to believe this is true with light in the darkness as well. The power of God far outweighs my weakness. Praise God!!
1 Corinthians 13: 12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
Lord Jesus,
Be our light and guide on this journey. I pray that you will draw us to yourself and that your light is evidenced in our lives even if through glimmers. Let us more and more see you as you are; our Lord and Saviour, the light of the world.
Blessings.
Scripture references: John 1:9; John 8:12, Romans 13:12, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Ephesians 5:8, 1 John 2:9
I often find myself feeling quite guilty at my human failings and of the fact that others see them. I can be moody and anxious, and my faith falters at times when I look at obstacles that seem bigger than I. But this morning as I looked at the light pouring through the cloud, I felt the Lord tell me that it is natural for the light to be filtered through the cloak of humanity. Glimmers of light are used by God to bring another soul to Him. Glimmers of light through a struggle can offer hope to another. Glimmers of light bring joy and peace to someone who is hurting.
Jesus is the true Light of mankind and we are but a reflection of His light. We gain His light in our own lives as we pray and read scripture and then practice its truth. The light of Jesus shines through my character and my life as I live to show others how much He loves them. The light of Jesus shines through your character and your life as you show others His love for them. It is the nature of God to move while using a human vessel. Scripture indicates that when perfection comes in the form of Jesus that the shadows are removed. I have to believe this is true with light in the darkness as well. The power of God far outweighs my weakness. Praise God!!
1 Corinthians 13: 12 Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
Lord Jesus,
Be our light and guide on this journey. I pray that you will draw us to yourself and that your light is evidenced in our lives even if through glimmers. Let us more and more see you as you are; our Lord and Saviour, the light of the world.
Blessings.
Scripture references: John 1:9; John 8:12, Romans 13:12, 2 Corinthians 4:6, Ephesians 5:8, 1 John 2:9
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Prayer for the United States
We are all aware that this country is facing very serious times. Elections are approaching that we hear are vital to our future. In my humble opinion, the future of this country rests on nothing less than its citizens returning to God and to His ways. Without the All Powerful, All Mighty God centered as the focus of our personal lives and given permission to influence our country, I fear our future is fragile and fleeting like other great cultures before us who have died and are buried in sands around the world.
King David was a man chosen by God to lead a kingdom which was also chosen by God. Where was King David ordained to lead this group of people?? He led them to his relationship with his God. The young nation of Israel had access to the intimacy and dependence that defined David's life with God. David's relationship with God served as a picture to Israel and mankind of the type of relationship God wants with each individual. Scripture often refers to David seeking God's direction for his personal life and for the kingdom. Israel was victorious in war because David received and followed God's direction. David led Israel to wealth, worship, war, and peace from his relationship with God. Thankfully, David is all human so we can observe even his failures and God's redemption of David through their relationship.
Am I comparing the United States to Israel? Absolutely not. I am comparing God's call of David to God's call of each one of us as a redemptive act that will affect the United States.
The United States needs people devoted to God to lead us into the future. I personally long for leaders who seek God and refuse to remove Him from their lives while serving in office. I long for leaders who embrace their relationship with God and have the strength to influence this country towards holiness, faith, and service. I long for leaders who have diligently sought God and been given a redemptive vision for this country. I long for leaders who can inspire us to repentance and devotion in our own lives. I long for God's wisdom in the spiritual battle for this country. Raise up leaders like David, Oh God.
Lord, hear our prayer!!!
Father,
You are the only hope for the future of this country. We pray that you will forgive us for straying from you and living as though your counsel is obsolete. Father, I pray that our hearts are turned towards you for relationship and wisdom. Prompt us towards holiness and love. We need your guidance and intervention at this place in our history. Raise up servants who are willing and able to lead this country. Give us wisdom to identify and support them in their undertaking.
Lord, hear our prayer.
King David was a man chosen by God to lead a kingdom which was also chosen by God. Where was King David ordained to lead this group of people?? He led them to his relationship with his God. The young nation of Israel had access to the intimacy and dependence that defined David's life with God. David's relationship with God served as a picture to Israel and mankind of the type of relationship God wants with each individual. Scripture often refers to David seeking God's direction for his personal life and for the kingdom. Israel was victorious in war because David received and followed God's direction. David led Israel to wealth, worship, war, and peace from his relationship with God. Thankfully, David is all human so we can observe even his failures and God's redemption of David through their relationship.
Am I comparing the United States to Israel? Absolutely not. I am comparing God's call of David to God's call of each one of us as a redemptive act that will affect the United States.
The United States needs people devoted to God to lead us into the future. I personally long for leaders who seek God and refuse to remove Him from their lives while serving in office. I long for leaders who embrace their relationship with God and have the strength to influence this country towards holiness, faith, and service. I long for leaders who have diligently sought God and been given a redemptive vision for this country. I long for leaders who can inspire us to repentance and devotion in our own lives. I long for God's wisdom in the spiritual battle for this country. Raise up leaders like David, Oh God.
Lord, hear our prayer!!!
Father,
You are the only hope for the future of this country. We pray that you will forgive us for straying from you and living as though your counsel is obsolete. Father, I pray that our hearts are turned towards you for relationship and wisdom. Prompt us towards holiness and love. We need your guidance and intervention at this place in our history. Raise up servants who are willing and able to lead this country. Give us wisdom to identify and support them in their undertaking.
Lord, hear our prayer.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Depression, Addiction, Brokenness, Loneliness... And yet.
It has been brought to my attention repeatedly over the last few weeks that so many people are suffering seemingly unbearable circumstances. I say 'seemingly' because our hardships and heartaches rise up and threaten to choke us. The weight of our battles press us down until we have no strength. We buckle under the oppression. Ruined finances. Persisting unemployment. Desperate loneliness. Severe depression. Broken relationships. Unshakable addictions.
In the midst of it, something nags at me. I have to think, "And yet..."
I've fallen prey to many of these disasters, and most of them just in the last 36 months. Depression that threatens my life. Finances that look so impossible we'll never know freedom again. Months of unemployment that I thought I'd never experience. Loneliness that takes my breath away. Disappointment on a mammoth scale.
And yet...
There is a light if I look for it. There is hope if I can silence the confusing babble of the destroyer. If I can just utter the words that take me back to my Savior, 'and yet' has significant meaning.
It means that there are those who refuse to buckle. As many of the Chilean miners did upon their rescue from the underground this week, there are people who raise fists high in the air and proclaim victory. Perhaps more than anyone, these people know the truth of Psalm 30:3. "O Lord, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit."
These strong souls encourage me, bless me with their determination to defeat the enemy. They tell me not to buckle. They remind me that I'm not alone and God knows each breath I take. He knows the ones taken from me, too. He is good and faithful and full of mercy. Whatever happens in this life, He is worthy to be praised.
Have you praised Him in spite of your circumstances lately? Tell us about it. What defeats the enemy more than a group of Jesus lovers uniting and shouting their praises?
And when another disaster seems imminent, remember: "For You are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord shall enlighten my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop; by my God I can leap over a wall" (2 Samuel 22:30). Let's start leaping, dear readers.
Lord, I love you. How much more is my love because you hear my voice and my supplications. Because you incline your ear to me, I will call upon you as long as I live. Even when death surrounds me and the enemy seems to close in, when trouble and sorrow call my name, I will call upon the name of my God. Deliver my soul, Lord! For you are gracious and righteous and merciful. Amen.
(A prayer from Psalm 116:1-5)
Many blessings to you,
Shelley
In the midst of it, something nags at me. I have to think, "And yet..."
I've fallen prey to many of these disasters, and most of them just in the last 36 months. Depression that threatens my life. Finances that look so impossible we'll never know freedom again. Months of unemployment that I thought I'd never experience. Loneliness that takes my breath away. Disappointment on a mammoth scale.
And yet...
There is a light if I look for it. There is hope if I can silence the confusing babble of the destroyer. If I can just utter the words that take me back to my Savior, 'and yet' has significant meaning.
It means that there are those who refuse to buckle. As many of the Chilean miners did upon their rescue from the underground this week, there are people who raise fists high in the air and proclaim victory. Perhaps more than anyone, these people know the truth of Psalm 30:3. "O Lord, You brought my soul up from the grave; You have kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit."
These strong souls encourage me, bless me with their determination to defeat the enemy. They tell me not to buckle. They remind me that I'm not alone and God knows each breath I take. He knows the ones taken from me, too. He is good and faithful and full of mercy. Whatever happens in this life, He is worthy to be praised.
Have you praised Him in spite of your circumstances lately? Tell us about it. What defeats the enemy more than a group of Jesus lovers uniting and shouting their praises?
And when another disaster seems imminent, remember: "For You are my lamp, O Lord; the Lord shall enlighten my darkness. For by You I can run against a troop; by my God I can leap over a wall" (2 Samuel 22:30). Let's start leaping, dear readers.
Lord, I love you. How much more is my love because you hear my voice and my supplications. Because you incline your ear to me, I will call upon you as long as I live. Even when death surrounds me and the enemy seems to close in, when trouble and sorrow call my name, I will call upon the name of my God. Deliver my soul, Lord! For you are gracious and righteous and merciful. Amen.
(A prayer from Psalm 116:1-5)
Many blessings to you,
Shelley
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
An Answered Prayer
The day dawned cool and cloudy, dropping a cold Rocky Mountain drizzle in parts of the city. I would find out in just a few hours how annoying those dark clouds could become.
Part of our goal at Elohim Prayer Beads is to help you learn how to pray according to Scripture. We hear time and again how people find it difficult or intimidating to go before God and simply lay out their hearts. After all, He is the Creator of the universe. It is easy to get tongue tied when you consider His magnificence.
In truth, prayer is simply talking to God as you would to a trusted friend. Matthew 6:8 and Hebrews 4:12 tell us He already knows our needs, our desires, and our thoughts. As a father who delights in his children, He longs to hear us share all this with Him.
As a tool in our teaching prayer, we will soon be offering very unique prayer beads. I met with Carol this afternoon to go over our designs and put several strands together. These bead strands each have a specific prayer focus and Scriptural prayer that goes with them. We have worked for several weeks to find exactly the right beads and combination of Scripture to offer as you go before the Lord.
But we have met with opposition. Like the low clouds blocking the sun this morning, we have felt stifled in our efforts to move forward.
Some would say this opposition is coincidence, and some would say it's just life. Others (read: Carol and Shelley) would declare an attack from Satan. Remember, we do not fight against flesh and blood. Whatever your theology on opposition in serving God, we have battled situations that include the wrong color beads. Beads too big or two small. Beads that are too lightweight or too heavy. Beads that break or don't stay on the strand. This week we received a shipment of thousands of beads that were not what we ordered and can not be used.
In spite of the appearance of things, we declared victory and determined to move on with our plans to serve you and the Lord. A trip to our local craft store brought us in touch - literally - with beautiful beads that we have loved working with in the past. We approached the clerk to ask about ordering in bulk. As we spoke, a new employee told us about a wholesale bead catalog that she receives in the mail each quarter. She excitedly told us she will give us her copy and we can order any bead that crosses our minds.
Driving away from the store, the sun broke through the clouds. Bright light shone over us and we felt God say, "I have put My words in your mouth; I have covered you with the shadow of My hand, That I may plant the heavens, Lay the foundations of the earth, And say to Zion, ‘You are My people’" (Isaiah 51:16).
Victory, indeed!
Do you have an answer to prayer? Share it with us!
Many blessings on you,
Shelley
Part of our goal at Elohim Prayer Beads is to help you learn how to pray according to Scripture. We hear time and again how people find it difficult or intimidating to go before God and simply lay out their hearts. After all, He is the Creator of the universe. It is easy to get tongue tied when you consider His magnificence.
In truth, prayer is simply talking to God as you would to a trusted friend. Matthew 6:8 and Hebrews 4:12 tell us He already knows our needs, our desires, and our thoughts. As a father who delights in his children, He longs to hear us share all this with Him.
As a tool in our teaching prayer, we will soon be offering very unique prayer beads. I met with Carol this afternoon to go over our designs and put several strands together. These bead strands each have a specific prayer focus and Scriptural prayer that goes with them. We have worked for several weeks to find exactly the right beads and combination of Scripture to offer as you go before the Lord.
But we have met with opposition. Like the low clouds blocking the sun this morning, we have felt stifled in our efforts to move forward.
Some would say this opposition is coincidence, and some would say it's just life. Others (read: Carol and Shelley) would declare an attack from Satan. Remember, we do not fight against flesh and blood. Whatever your theology on opposition in serving God, we have battled situations that include the wrong color beads. Beads too big or two small. Beads that are too lightweight or too heavy. Beads that break or don't stay on the strand. This week we received a shipment of thousands of beads that were not what we ordered and can not be used.
In spite of the appearance of things, we declared victory and determined to move on with our plans to serve you and the Lord. A trip to our local craft store brought us in touch - literally - with beautiful beads that we have loved working with in the past. We approached the clerk to ask about ordering in bulk. As we spoke, a new employee told us about a wholesale bead catalog that she receives in the mail each quarter. She excitedly told us she will give us her copy and we can order any bead that crosses our minds.
Driving away from the store, the sun broke through the clouds. Bright light shone over us and we felt God say, "I have put My words in your mouth; I have covered you with the shadow of My hand, That I may plant the heavens, Lay the foundations of the earth, And say to Zion, ‘You are My people’" (Isaiah 51:16).
Victory, indeed!
Do you have an answer to prayer? Share it with us!
Many blessings on you,
Shelley
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Psalm 30 prayer
Psalm 30 has been my altar cry for many months. Like many of the psalms, it holds powerful emotion that I identify with, as well as warm promises and blessings that I crave. No one knows our struggle the way our Heavenly Father does, and it seems no one can voice hope for deliverance the way the Bible does.
For those who fight an addiction, or who love someone who fights, know that we lift you to the Father in prayer:
Lord, my loved ones are lost. They ridicule your name while I mourn.
They destroy their lives by chasing pain and pointlessness.
Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on us.
Lord, be our helper!
I will lift you up, because you have lifted me up.
You do not let the enemy rejoice over me.
O Lord my God, heal the ones I love.
Bring their souls up from the grave and keep them alive,
that they might sing praise to your name and give thanks.
May your anger last but for a moment, and your favor for life.
Weeping endures for the night, but may joy come in the morning.
Turn our mourning into dancing, Lord.
Put off our sackcloth and clothe us with gladness.
We will give thanks to you forever. Amen.
For those who fight an addiction, or who love someone who fights, know that we lift you to the Father in prayer:
Lord, my loved ones are lost. They ridicule your name while I mourn.
They destroy their lives by chasing pain and pointlessness.
Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on us.
Lord, be our helper!
I will lift you up, because you have lifted me up.
You do not let the enemy rejoice over me.
O Lord my God, heal the ones I love.
Bring their souls up from the grave and keep them alive,
that they might sing praise to your name and give thanks.
May your anger last but for a moment, and your favor for life.
Weeping endures for the night, but may joy come in the morning.
Turn our mourning into dancing, Lord.
Put off our sackcloth and clothe us with gladness.
We will give thanks to you forever. Amen.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Facing the Giant of Drug Addiction
I have been reading a book about the "giants" we face in our lives. This is not a new topic for me but every once in a while I revisit it wondering if I have allowed new giants to take up residence in my heart, mind, and life. My main giant is my health; will I breathe today or not. Some giants we learn to live with for many years; this one has been with me my entire life, I don't know a day without it. There are other giants we carry around on our backs and become so used to the weight that we don't remember it as a burden until we practically sink under it.
I know some wonderful people who manage under the weight of a huge heart-rending giant each and every day as they work, support their families, and attempt to enjoy their lives. These families are dealing with adult children who abuse drugs and can no longer function at a normal level to care for themselves or their children. I am surprised at the numbers of adults that abuse drugs and wonder what in the world caused that "child" to choose such a path. Only they and God know for sure. My heart is burdened for families that have someone they love changed by drugs, so the prayer below is offered to the Father on their behalf. If you are one of these folks, please know that you are not alone and that God cares about you and your child. If you are one of the abusers, please know that others love you and long for you to be whole and that God holds the answers you are seeking.
Father -
Thank you that you give us each other to help carry the burdens of life. I pray today for those who are dealing with adult children who have lost their way by choosing a life of drug abuse. Our hearts break for them as they struggle each day to feed an addiction that they cannot control; to live a life they can no longer choose.
I pray that you will give their parents wisdom to act and love beyond all human reason. I pray that you will empower parents to do the hard things to protect themselves and others from the many facets of an abusers life that can elicit dangerous situations.
I pray that you would give all of us who support these parents wisdom to know how to help them as they grieve for their children, raise their grandchildren, and dare to hope their children can become free. We dare to pray for freedom from the life of addiction.
In the Son's name we offer these prayers to you.
Amen.
I know some wonderful people who manage under the weight of a huge heart-rending giant each and every day as they work, support their families, and attempt to enjoy their lives. These families are dealing with adult children who abuse drugs and can no longer function at a normal level to care for themselves or their children. I am surprised at the numbers of adults that abuse drugs and wonder what in the world caused that "child" to choose such a path. Only they and God know for sure. My heart is burdened for families that have someone they love changed by drugs, so the prayer below is offered to the Father on their behalf. If you are one of these folks, please know that you are not alone and that God cares about you and your child. If you are one of the abusers, please know that others love you and long for you to be whole and that God holds the answers you are seeking.
Father -
Thank you that you give us each other to help carry the burdens of life. I pray today for those who are dealing with adult children who have lost their way by choosing a life of drug abuse. Our hearts break for them as they struggle each day to feed an addiction that they cannot control; to live a life they can no longer choose.
I pray that you will give their parents wisdom to act and love beyond all human reason. I pray that you will empower parents to do the hard things to protect themselves and others from the many facets of an abusers life that can elicit dangerous situations.
I pray that you would give all of us who support these parents wisdom to know how to help them as they grieve for their children, raise their grandchildren, and dare to hope their children can become free. We dare to pray for freedom from the life of addiction.
In the Son's name we offer these prayers to you.
Amen.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Monday prayer - a psalm in times of trouble
I heard from a friend today that she is experiencing possibly the most intimidating circumstances of her life. She is frightened, isolated, and more than a little lost.
Whatever the circumstances, many, many people can relate to those feelings.
What do you do when life throws you on your face and struts away chuckling? If you're smart, you stay there. Not just to hide, but to seek refuge and comfort. This is the perfect time to pray according to Scripture. And the perfect Scripture to pray? Consider one of the Psalms. David often wrote of being in trouble, being chased by the enemy, being alone and frightened and uncertain of everything but this: God was his refuge, his strong tower, and his shield. Once you've read what David and other writers said to the Lord, go to Him with your own psalm.
I offer the following prayer in honor of my friend, but also for those of you who feel alone, frightened, and lost.
O God, I'm in trouble.
My foes rise against me on either side. The enemy is so high I can not see the light.
My heart is weak. My strength is gone.
Where are you, El Shaddai, O God of the mountains?
How long will you hide your face from your beloved?
Have mercy on me, Lord. Return and deliver me for your own sake.
As the psalmist said, in the grave who will give you thanks? For in death there is no remembrance of You.
I know that you have heard the voice of my weeping.
You are a shield for me, my glory and the one who lifts up my head.
You are my refuge in times of trouble.
I will both lie down in peace, and sleep, for you alone make me dwell in safety.
I will sing to the Lord, because you have dealt bountifully with me.
(Taken from Genesis 17:1, Psalm 3:3, 4:8, 6:5, 6:8, 9:9, 13:6)
Whatever the circumstances, many, many people can relate to those feelings.
What do you do when life throws you on your face and struts away chuckling? If you're smart, you stay there. Not just to hide, but to seek refuge and comfort. This is the perfect time to pray according to Scripture. And the perfect Scripture to pray? Consider one of the Psalms. David often wrote of being in trouble, being chased by the enemy, being alone and frightened and uncertain of everything but this: God was his refuge, his strong tower, and his shield. Once you've read what David and other writers said to the Lord, go to Him with your own psalm.
I offer the following prayer in honor of my friend, but also for those of you who feel alone, frightened, and lost.
O God, I'm in trouble.
My foes rise against me on either side. The enemy is so high I can not see the light.
My heart is weak. My strength is gone.
Where are you, El Shaddai, O God of the mountains?
How long will you hide your face from your beloved?
Have mercy on me, Lord. Return and deliver me for your own sake.
As the psalmist said, in the grave who will give you thanks? For in death there is no remembrance of You.
I know that you have heard the voice of my weeping.
You are a shield for me, my glory and the one who lifts up my head.
You are my refuge in times of trouble.
I will both lie down in peace, and sleep, for you alone make me dwell in safety.
I will sing to the Lord, because you have dealt bountifully with me.
(Taken from Genesis 17:1, Psalm 3:3, 4:8, 6:5, 6:8, 9:9, 13:6)
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
What will you do with the burden?
I surrendered my vehicle yesterday. So long, Freedom. Good knowing you, Independence. And Pride? You'll be on the back burner for awhile.
This is just one of many consequences of mistakes I've made over many years. It's tough, and sometimes I want to shake my fist at God and ask why He didn't do something. Provide more income so I could literally pay my dues. Stop me from making some of those wayward choices. Make me wiser so I didn't make those choices in the first place.
He could change this situation, but it's unlikely. More likely that He wants to change my heart.
It occurs to me that while God does many things for me, He will never take over my brain or my body and force me to do His will. That's another choice I can make - with assuredly better results. As for today, He promised to give me wisdom when I ask for it (James 1:5). I know that all things work together for good for those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
The Scriptures say He will never give me more than I can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). And God promised to be my Comfort (Isaiah 51:12) and Peace (Ephesians 2:14) and a constant Presence (Psalm 139:7). My choice today is to focus on the good that He is working through my mistakes, and to turn to Him for comfort, peace, and strength.
Are you struggling with consequences from your mistakes? What will you do with the burden?
"I, even I, am He who comforts you." Isaiah 51:12
Father God, thank you for your loving comfort and for your unending grace. Thank you for the promises you've recorded in Scripture to help us through difficult times. May we always recognize the way out of temptation, and may we continually seek your escape. Work the painful situations of each person here for good in our lives and in the kingdom. Give your children the strength to withstand, to turn to you in our pain, and to give you the glory. Give us wisdom to make choices that honor you. We pray these things in your holy name, Amen.
This is just one of many consequences of mistakes I've made over many years. It's tough, and sometimes I want to shake my fist at God and ask why He didn't do something. Provide more income so I could literally pay my dues. Stop me from making some of those wayward choices. Make me wiser so I didn't make those choices in the first place.
He could change this situation, but it's unlikely. More likely that He wants to change my heart.
It occurs to me that while God does many things for me, He will never take over my brain or my body and force me to do His will. That's another choice I can make - with assuredly better results. As for today, He promised to give me wisdom when I ask for it (James 1:5). I know that all things work together for good for those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).
The Scriptures say He will never give me more than I can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). And God promised to be my Comfort (Isaiah 51:12) and Peace (Ephesians 2:14) and a constant Presence (Psalm 139:7). My choice today is to focus on the good that He is working through my mistakes, and to turn to Him for comfort, peace, and strength.
Are you struggling with consequences from your mistakes? What will you do with the burden?
"I, even I, am He who comforts you." Isaiah 51:12
Father God, thank you for your loving comfort and for your unending grace. Thank you for the promises you've recorded in Scripture to help us through difficult times. May we always recognize the way out of temptation, and may we continually seek your escape. Work the painful situations of each person here for good in our lives and in the kingdom. Give your children the strength to withstand, to turn to you in our pain, and to give you the glory. Give us wisdom to make choices that honor you. We pray these things in your holy name, Amen.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Monday Prayer - My Light and My Salvation
“The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear. The Lord is the strength of my life - of whom shall I be afraid.” Psalm 27:1
I have prayed this verse many times since I first memorized Psalm 27 in my bible study group a number of years ago. The Lord – MY light – yes, without him there is only darkness and fear inside of me. The Lord – MY salvation – I have chosen Jesus the author and perfector of my faith! YES, He is my hope and my life and I am especially confident of this fact when I live in these truths which dispel my fear and doubt.
Whom shall I fear when the God of the Universe and His expression of love to the world in Jesus chooses to act in kindness towards me? Human beings harbor many fears and I don’t know about you but when I dwell on my fears rather than on the proven truth in the Bible, my thoughts can easily turn my feelings to those of hopelessness. (Proven? Yes, proven!!)
The Lord is the strength of my life – when I am weak, then I am strong because HE is my strength for whatever lies ahead. God works for the good of his people even during times that are difficult to bear. I am still confident of this; I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Be strong and take heart, wait for the Lord
“Hear my voice when I call, O Lord, be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you seek His face, your face Lord will I seek.” Psalm 27:7-8
Father,
Please give hope to those of us who are struggling with fear and doubt in this earthly life. Help us to grasp your divine love and understand that your intentions toward us are for good. Father, may we earnestly seek you in prayer to express our devotion and needs offering them as a fragrant sacrifice to You. May we seek You in your Word asking for confidence in your character and for the increase of our faith unto strength.
The world offers many options for relief from our pain and fear but we have proven time and again that they provide only a momentary hush from the voices within. Father you are proven to offer a peace that quiets all voices and all lies bringing us a hope that the world cannot experience outside of you. May we seek you for a path and a peace we so desperately desire.
Father, I pray for those who either don’t know you or are afraid to seek you, that you gently draw them to yourself and show them your love and your mercy. May their hearts soften towards you so that your work may begin.
In your precious Son’s name,
Amen
I have prayed this verse many times since I first memorized Psalm 27 in my bible study group a number of years ago. The Lord – MY light – yes, without him there is only darkness and fear inside of me. The Lord – MY salvation – I have chosen Jesus the author and perfector of my faith! YES, He is my hope and my life and I am especially confident of this fact when I live in these truths which dispel my fear and doubt.
Whom shall I fear when the God of the Universe and His expression of love to the world in Jesus chooses to act in kindness towards me? Human beings harbor many fears and I don’t know about you but when I dwell on my fears rather than on the proven truth in the Bible, my thoughts can easily turn my feelings to those of hopelessness. (Proven? Yes, proven!!)
The Lord is the strength of my life – when I am weak, then I am strong because HE is my strength for whatever lies ahead. God works for the good of his people even during times that are difficult to bear. I am still confident of this; I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Be strong and take heart, wait for the Lord
“Hear my voice when I call, O Lord, be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you seek His face, your face Lord will I seek.” Psalm 27:7-8
Father,
Please give hope to those of us who are struggling with fear and doubt in this earthly life. Help us to grasp your divine love and understand that your intentions toward us are for good. Father, may we earnestly seek you in prayer to express our devotion and needs offering them as a fragrant sacrifice to You. May we seek You in your Word asking for confidence in your character and for the increase of our faith unto strength.
The world offers many options for relief from our pain and fear but we have proven time and again that they provide only a momentary hush from the voices within. Father you are proven to offer a peace that quiets all voices and all lies bringing us a hope that the world cannot experience outside of you. May we seek you for a path and a peace we so desperately desire.
Father, I pray for those who either don’t know you or are afraid to seek you, that you gently draw them to yourself and show them your love and your mercy. May their hearts soften towards you so that your work may begin.
In your precious Son’s name,
Amen
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Praying according to the Scriptures
"Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples." So He said to them, "When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." Luke 11:1-2
And my prayer is pure. Job 16:17
One thing we want to do here is teach you how to pray according to the Scriptures. There are so many aspects to think about when we begin praying this way, but one of the most important is praying in Jesus' name. What does that mean?
Think about the things you know about Jesus. Even the unbeliever knows His name, knows His nature. Jesus is love, peace, and POWER. It is undeniable the things He did while walking the earth - the people He touched, healed, blessed. And though Jesus was kind about most things, He was firm about everything. He prayed expecting to see results. He knew the power at work in Him - because it came from the Father and was His own - and He instructed His followers to recognize that power also.
"If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him" (John 14:7).
"And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever - the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him for He dwells with you and will be in you" (John 14:16-17).
So, praying in Jesus' name is to pray with purity, love, and power. It is to talk to God and expect to see a change. If we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we have the Spirit of truth dwelling with us and in us. The most powerful force in the universe. The Spirit of the One who indeed created the universe. Shouldn't our prayers reflect that power and love and grace?
Think about that as you go into prayer. If you are asking inherently selfish or harmful things, or things otherwise against God's will, be prepared to wait for God to answer it. Be prepared for Him to work a change in your heart.
If you want nothing to do with prayer, think about it anyway. Consider your reasons for avoiding that Power or for misusing Him.
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites... Pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 5:5, 6
And my prayer is pure. Job 16:17
One thing we want to do here is teach you how to pray according to the Scriptures. There are so many aspects to think about when we begin praying this way, but one of the most important is praying in Jesus' name. What does that mean?
Think about the things you know about Jesus. Even the unbeliever knows His name, knows His nature. Jesus is love, peace, and POWER. It is undeniable the things He did while walking the earth - the people He touched, healed, blessed. And though Jesus was kind about most things, He was firm about everything. He prayed expecting to see results. He knew the power at work in Him - because it came from the Father and was His own - and He instructed His followers to recognize that power also.
"If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him" (John 14:7).
"And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever - the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him for He dwells with you and will be in you" (John 14:16-17).
So, praying in Jesus' name is to pray with purity, love, and power. It is to talk to God and expect to see a change. If we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we have the Spirit of truth dwelling with us and in us. The most powerful force in the universe. The Spirit of the One who indeed created the universe. Shouldn't our prayers reflect that power and love and grace?
Think about that as you go into prayer. If you are asking inherently selfish or harmful things, or things otherwise against God's will, be prepared to wait for God to answer it. Be prepared for Him to work a change in your heart.
If you want nothing to do with prayer, think about it anyway. Consider your reasons for avoiding that Power or for misusing Him.
And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites... Pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 5:5, 6
Monday, September 20, 2010
Monday prayer - Seeking God
Good Monday to you, prayer lovers! And prayer haters. All you ambivalent about prayer. Prayer doers and prayer learners and prayer avoiders. Who did I leave out?
As you may have gathered, this is a place for everyone who has thoughts about prayer - good or bad. This is a safe place to share your thoughts, your concerns, your requests. Do it kindly and with respect, and be secure in the knowledge that there is grace.
Do you have a prayer need? What are your thoughts about prayer? Is it a good use of your time, or do you feel like you're talking to the ceiling? Get talking, people!
Lord God, we thank You for the incredible freedom to talk to You openly and without fear. Not only for the freedom allowed in our country, but also for the freedom to approach the throne of grace boldly. You are truly a great and awesome God.
This week, give us a heart to talk to You. For those who don't talk often enough, put it in our minds to seek Your face. For those who talk too much, help us remember that nothing is too much for You. You desire relationship and communion with Your children. There are those who want nothing to do with You or with prayer. We ask that you would soften hearts to feel Your love and open ears to hear Your voice.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve You. Keep us from the evil one as we strive to please You. In Your holy Name, Jesus, amen.
"Seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 4:29
"Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:12-13
As you may have gathered, this is a place for everyone who has thoughts about prayer - good or bad. This is a safe place to share your thoughts, your concerns, your requests. Do it kindly and with respect, and be secure in the knowledge that there is grace.
Do you have a prayer need? What are your thoughts about prayer? Is it a good use of your time, or do you feel like you're talking to the ceiling? Get talking, people!
Lord God, we thank You for the incredible freedom to talk to You openly and without fear. Not only for the freedom allowed in our country, but also for the freedom to approach the throne of grace boldly. You are truly a great and awesome God.
This week, give us a heart to talk to You. For those who don't talk often enough, put it in our minds to seek Your face. For those who talk too much, help us remember that nothing is too much for You. You desire relationship and communion with Your children. There are those who want nothing to do with You or with prayer. We ask that you would soften hearts to feel Your love and open ears to hear Your voice.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve You. Keep us from the evil one as we strive to please You. In Your holy Name, Jesus, amen.
"Seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 4:29
"Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:12-13
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Prosperity is more than we think
I didn't want to write this post today. As Carol said yesterday, prosperity is a tricky subject in the church. It invites scorn and skepticism. But in an effort to be transparent and give God the glory, it seemed important to share just some of our story and my reasons for bringing this subject to the blog at all.
I ask that mercy would triumph judgment as you learn more about me.
* * *
I press the End button on my cell phone with shaking hands. Bile rises in my throat and I grit my teeth against it.
"O God. I'm going to throw up."
That's not the voice of faith. Take heart, child.
"Take heart? Your Word says the righteous shall not beg. Your Word says You will supply our every need. Your Word says ask anything in Jesus' name and it will be done by my Father in heaven. How can this be happening in light of what Your Word says, God?"
Silence. Of course. Like a patient parent, He waits out my temper tantrum. Or is He, like I do when my toddler throws a fit, thinking of a suitable punishment for my insolence?
I draw a deep breath and swallow. This is the Almighty I'm talking to. Maybe I should dial down the attitude a bit.
"Is this what's it's come to, then? Two years of clawing and fighting to stay out of the pit, and we have to file for bankruptcy anyway? Where is our abundance? Where is the prosperity You promised?"
I know your needs before you ask. Have I not clothed the lilies of the valley and fed the birds of the air? Will I not do this and much more for you?
"Oh, good. I'll just tell those creditors that God knows all our needs and He'll bail us out soon."
More silence, and I wonder what people would say if I really did bring God into our conversation about money. Somehow, I doubt it will change the bottom line.
God doesn't promise a bailout of governmental proportions. I made mistakes in handling my finances, and I have to pay the consequences. If that means bankruptcy or working two jobs or selling everything we own, maybe it will teach me about good stewardship in the future.
I feel a prodding of the sovereign sort. He does not judge me as I judge myself or as the world judges me, and He is quick to forgive. He rescues His children as a father with limitless resources would.
Rescue is still possible. Prosperity is still possible.
But what is prosperity? When I pray for that specific blessing, what am I really asking for? Let me explain in wholly personal terms as I believe this differs for everyone.
For me, prosperity means paying - and paying off - my bills. It means going to the grocery store and not debating about a bar of soap or a package of dinner meat. Prosperity to me is taking a weekend to play with my husband and kids without worrying about the lost income from two days off. I'd like to have enough in savings to pay for a trip to the dentist or car repairs. Enough to give back to the community and the people that have helped us so much in our time of need.
Even more than money, prosperity is the ability to get up in the morning and look forward to the day. To have sufficient rest and abundant peace and joy. To be able to ward off spiritual attacks that threaten to derail my progress in the Lord. To have direction and energy and organization.
That's prosperous living to me. That's what rescue looks like to me.
I know we are not unique in our situation. Millions of people in our country face circumstances like ours. May we all turn to God, "who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think, according to the power that works in us" (Ephesians 3:20).
I feel, rather than hear, the Lord's voice. Fear not, child. I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
To have the God of the universe taking care of me and holding me up as I go through this life gives me pause. It surely does not get more prosperous than that.
I pray prosperity and abundance on us all,
Shelley
I ask that mercy would triumph judgment as you learn more about me.
* * *
I press the End button on my cell phone with shaking hands. Bile rises in my throat and I grit my teeth against it.
"O God. I'm going to throw up."
That's not the voice of faith. Take heart, child.
"Take heart? Your Word says the righteous shall not beg. Your Word says You will supply our every need. Your Word says ask anything in Jesus' name and it will be done by my Father in heaven. How can this be happening in light of what Your Word says, God?"
Silence. Of course. Like a patient parent, He waits out my temper tantrum. Or is He, like I do when my toddler throws a fit, thinking of a suitable punishment for my insolence?
I draw a deep breath and swallow. This is the Almighty I'm talking to. Maybe I should dial down the attitude a bit.
"Is this what's it's come to, then? Two years of clawing and fighting to stay out of the pit, and we have to file for bankruptcy anyway? Where is our abundance? Where is the prosperity You promised?"
I know your needs before you ask. Have I not clothed the lilies of the valley and fed the birds of the air? Will I not do this and much more for you?
"Oh, good. I'll just tell those creditors that God knows all our needs and He'll bail us out soon."
More silence, and I wonder what people would say if I really did bring God into our conversation about money. Somehow, I doubt it will change the bottom line.
God doesn't promise a bailout of governmental proportions. I made mistakes in handling my finances, and I have to pay the consequences. If that means bankruptcy or working two jobs or selling everything we own, maybe it will teach me about good stewardship in the future.
I feel a prodding of the sovereign sort. He does not judge me as I judge myself or as the world judges me, and He is quick to forgive. He rescues His children as a father with limitless resources would.
Rescue is still possible. Prosperity is still possible.
But what is prosperity? When I pray for that specific blessing, what am I really asking for? Let me explain in wholly personal terms as I believe this differs for everyone.
For me, prosperity means paying - and paying off - my bills. It means going to the grocery store and not debating about a bar of soap or a package of dinner meat. Prosperity to me is taking a weekend to play with my husband and kids without worrying about the lost income from two days off. I'd like to have enough in savings to pay for a trip to the dentist or car repairs. Enough to give back to the community and the people that have helped us so much in our time of need.
Even more than money, prosperity is the ability to get up in the morning and look forward to the day. To have sufficient rest and abundant peace and joy. To be able to ward off spiritual attacks that threaten to derail my progress in the Lord. To have direction and energy and organization.
That's prosperous living to me. That's what rescue looks like to me.
I know we are not unique in our situation. Millions of people in our country face circumstances like ours. May we all turn to God, "who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think, according to the power that works in us" (Ephesians 3:20).
I feel, rather than hear, the Lord's voice. Fear not, child. I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
To have the God of the universe taking care of me and holding me up as I go through this life gives me pause. It surely does not get more prosperous than that.
I pray prosperity and abundance on us all,
Shelley
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
The Riches of an Inheritance
Ephesians 1:18 - 19
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe.
I love Shelley’s honesty on the subject of prosperity which is almost a taboo subject in the church. There are some subjects that the church shies away from in an effort not to be misunderstood; prosperity is one of those subject. Why?? I think because prosperity is most often interpreted as asking for dollars and as Shelley has pointed out there are references where that request is biblical.
However, Jesus even mentions that the people he fed with fish and loaves began to seek Him, not because of the signs which pointed to Him as the Messiah but because their bellies were filled and they wanted more (See John 6:25 – 27). He instructed those followers to spend their energy on seeking the spiritual food that endures to eternal life rather on the “food” which perishes after ingested. He knows our need for the daily requirements of life and it is obvious from scripture that he willingly meets those needs. I asked myself after Shelley’s blog if I turn my heart back to the Father with heartfelt thanks when my needs are met or do I ask God to search my heart when they seem to be out of our reach. Questions, questions.
The passage from Ephesians gives us incredible detail regarding what God identifies as riches for his people mainly the riches of the glorious inheritance of eternal life AND the greatness of His power TOWARD us who believe; such power as we have never known and such an inheritance that we cannot begin to grasp it. How are the eyes of our heart enlightened?? Well, you know where I’m going with this – it is through time spent in prayer; seeking God for His direction and guidance in the simple, daily needs of life and for the eternal needs of our souls. Both are equally important to sustain life.
“For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Blessings on your journey,
Carol
Blessings on your journey,
Carol
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Praying for Prosperity
Happy Tuesday, Pray-ers! As always, last week slipped by when I wasn't looking, and the weekend... Well, I'm pretty sure it didn't happen. Here's hoping you all had a good few days.
And here's praying we all have a great week!
Do you ever pray for prosperity? I do. It's more biblical than some would think (see Joshua 1:7, 1 Kings 2:3, and 3 John 1:2 for a few examples), but it took a long time for me to recognize that my idea of prosperity is not necessarily God's idea. In fact, I think He has a much bigger plan for it than I do. I usually pray for financial income - especially in the wake of losing my job and my husband working too many 14-hour days to make up for it. Sometimes I'll ask for God to prosper us in another way, like joy or understanding, but mostly I just want money. Lol.
I think God wants more for us than that.
The Word says that our expectation comes from Him (Psalm 62:5), and that His plans for us are for good, for a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). That sounds like even more than financial prosperity to me. His idea is for us to have peace, joy, hope, and fullness of Spirit. The enemy can not gain a foothold and steal our prosperity if we're seeking and living in the Spirit of Christ. And money doesn't compare when I'm full of joy and hope. When I have these things, when I'm living in Jesus, I can do all things - even earn financial income.
How do you pray for prosperity? What does it look like to you? Share with us, and let's pray for each other!
Many blessings to you today,
Shelley
And here's praying we all have a great week!
Do you ever pray for prosperity? I do. It's more biblical than some would think (see Joshua 1:7, 1 Kings 2:3, and 3 John 1:2 for a few examples), but it took a long time for me to recognize that my idea of prosperity is not necessarily God's idea. In fact, I think He has a much bigger plan for it than I do. I usually pray for financial income - especially in the wake of losing my job and my husband working too many 14-hour days to make up for it. Sometimes I'll ask for God to prosper us in another way, like joy or understanding, but mostly I just want money. Lol.
I think God wants more for us than that.
The Word says that our expectation comes from Him (Psalm 62:5), and that His plans for us are for good, for a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). That sounds like even more than financial prosperity to me. His idea is for us to have peace, joy, hope, and fullness of Spirit. The enemy can not gain a foothold and steal our prosperity if we're seeking and living in the Spirit of Christ. And money doesn't compare when I'm full of joy and hope. When I have these things, when I'm living in Jesus, I can do all things - even earn financial income.
How do you pray for prosperity? What does it look like to you? Share with us, and let's pray for each other!
Many blessings to you today,
Shelley
Monday, September 13, 2010
Monday Prayer
Happy Monday morning, Pray-ers! Let's start the week talking to God.
Father God, thank you for another day to praise and worship you. Thank you for the many gifts you give us, and help us to recognize them. Help us to hear Your voice this week, and guide us in the ways You would have us go.
This week, I especially pray for Your children to prosper in Your name, Jesus. Many of us are weak, faltering, and disillusioned. We have asked, we have believed, and we have not received as Your word says we should. We see the wicked prosper while our works and faith seem fruitless. Where the enemy is lurking and stealing from us, I pray that You would bind him in Your power and in Your might. Give us victory and show us how to take it. Give us unending hope that does not disappoint. Give us power to win this fight for Your glory.
You are good and kind and generous, Lord. We praise You for it, and for covering us with love, courage, kindness, and hope. In Your holy Name we pray, Amen.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Vine and the Branches
One way the Bible describes Jesus is as the vine that feeds and sustains His followers with a life that is inaccessible except in relationship with Him. “I am the vine, you are the branches” gives a beautiful pictorial of Jesus as nourisher for all those who seek their spiritual life in Him. Jesus points us to a relationship with Him that is intimate and dependent, filled with passion and life.
Prayer is a dialog with Jesus that nourishes our soul and empowers us to live with Him. Anyone who earnestly wants to know Jesus can develop a relationship with Him. Anyone who honestly asks Jesus to be with them in life will not be disappointed because He will honor your request. He will meet you when you pray and will answer you as you seek Him with a heart that desires a new way and a new life.
Meeting with Jesus in prayer regularly will bring about changes in you that are new and exciting, like wanting to spend time in prayer talking with Him. You will want to go to Jesus with decisions to be made. His guidance is wise and accurate. You will want to give up habits that are not in keeping with His nature. He will give you the strength and courage to meet these challenges. Jesus can guide you through all the circumstances of life with insights that are not your own. This is called living a spirit-filled life of faith and is one of the great wonders of life in Him.
Please feel free to let us know if you have questions about how to ask Jesus to become part of your life.
Blessings,
Carol
Prayer is a dialog with Jesus that nourishes our soul and empowers us to live with Him. Anyone who earnestly wants to know Jesus can develop a relationship with Him. Anyone who honestly asks Jesus to be with them in life will not be disappointed because He will honor your request. He will meet you when you pray and will answer you as you seek Him with a heart that desires a new way and a new life.
Meeting with Jesus in prayer regularly will bring about changes in you that are new and exciting, like wanting to spend time in prayer talking with Him. You will want to go to Jesus with decisions to be made. His guidance is wise and accurate. You will want to give up habits that are not in keeping with His nature. He will give you the strength and courage to meet these challenges. Jesus can guide you through all the circumstances of life with insights that are not your own. This is called living a spirit-filled life of faith and is one of the great wonders of life in Him.
Please feel free to let us know if you have questions about how to ask Jesus to become part of your life.
Blessings,
Carol
Monday, September 6, 2010
Monday Prayer
Happy Monday, all. (And Happy Labor Day, too! I do hope you're able to rest a bit from your labors on this day.)
Did the beginning of the week sneak up on you? It often does to me. Mondays usually mean my husband and keeper of the sanity goes back to work, leaving me with two toddlers, two dogs, and complete chaos. (I'm only half kidding here. The chaos is more than complete, if that's possible. Sweet hubby is not really keeper of the sanity, though he does give me lots of kid-free time on the weekends, so that counts for a lot.) With so much maelstrom staring me in the face, I find it even more important to focus on God before trying to head off the storms.
Let's pray.
Father God, what a blessing it is to come to You with all our cares, even before they happen. Your word says to cast our cares on You because You care for us. Watch over us as we begin the day, as we work for Your glory, and as we continue through the week. Show us Your love and help us pour it out onto others.
Jesus, we pray for protection from the evil one. Remind us to put on our full armor each day, that we would walk in peace and in Your righteousness. May the enemy's arrows crumple against the shield of faith. May we take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, and may we remember to pray always, taking each thought captive.
We thank You for guiding us, for blessing us, and for calling us according to Your will. Amen.
Do you have a specific prayer request? Let us know. Leave a comment or email us privately at elohimprayer@gmail.com. Thanks for spending a few minutes with us today!
Blessings on you,
Shelley
Did the beginning of the week sneak up on you? It often does to me. Mondays usually mean my husband and keeper of the sanity goes back to work, leaving me with two toddlers, two dogs, and complete chaos. (I'm only half kidding here. The chaos is more than complete, if that's possible. Sweet hubby is not really keeper of the sanity, though he does give me lots of kid-free time on the weekends, so that counts for a lot.) With so much maelstrom staring me in the face, I find it even more important to focus on God before trying to head off the storms.
Let's pray.
Father God, what a blessing it is to come to You with all our cares, even before they happen. Your word says to cast our cares on You because You care for us. Watch over us as we begin the day, as we work for Your glory, and as we continue through the week. Show us Your love and help us pour it out onto others.
Jesus, we pray for protection from the evil one. Remind us to put on our full armor each day, that we would walk in peace and in Your righteousness. May the enemy's arrows crumple against the shield of faith. May we take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, and may we remember to pray always, taking each thought captive.
We thank You for guiding us, for blessing us, and for calling us according to Your will. Amen.
Do you have a specific prayer request? Let us know. Leave a comment or email us privately at elohimprayer@gmail.com. Thanks for spending a few minutes with us today!
Blessings on you,
Shelley
Friday, September 3, 2010
What's so important about prayer?
Sunday night. I sat on my queen bed, loathing the thought of sleeping in it alone, holding my five-month pregnant belly and fighting the lump that lodged itself in my throat. My husband quietly packed his bags.
“Can’t you quit?”
“You know that better than I do. We need the money.”
I cleared my throat, trying to find that eternal spring of hope. “You’ll find something else. They’re not paying enough for this.”
“There’s nothing else in this economy.” He placed his hand against my cheek and rubbed. “You’ll be staying home when the baby comes, and we need this job.”
“I need you, and so does this baby.” My face crumpled and I gave in to the tears. They rolled hot and fast down my face. My emotion made it harder on him, but I couldn’t stop.
He frowned and gathered me in for a hug. “I don’t want to do this. Don’t you know that?”
I nodded, but my sobs wouldn’t allow me to speak. Desperation filled my being.
And I began to pray.
Prayer is the most important and most powerful weapon in our arsenal against the enemy. As Ephesians 6 says, we do not fight against flesh and blood – or in my case, against employers and the economy – but against the powers and principalities of darkness. We are instructed to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17), to pray in the Spirit (Eph. 6:18), and to continue steadfastly in prayer (Rom. 12:12).
The desperate words I poured out to God that night continued for three years. They continue today. My husband did find another job – by the grace of God and no effort of his own – but we lived through two childbirths, two job losses, and the most frightening financial times of my life while God listened to my cries and comforted me. He drew me near and encouraged me as my friends and family supported me in prayer.
The Bible mentions prayer or some form of it nearly 600 times. What’s so important about it? Prayer is our lifeline to the eternal. Prayer keeps us connected to our Creator. Prayer changes lives, situations, and people.
It is my partner’s vision to teach us to pray. We offer unique, hand-crafted prayer beads with prayer guides to aid in teaching. These beads and prayers are absolutely Christian and point to the power of the triune God as our source.
It is my vision to illustrate the all-encompassing love of Jesus Christ that opened the door so we can pray, with boldness and confidence before the Throne of the Almighty. We are given a tremendous opportunity to approach the Creator of the universe and talk as though we would to our best friend. He longs to hear from us. So, let’s get talking. What are you saying to God? What does He say to you?
Let this be a place to share your prayers, but just as importantly, to share answers to your prayers. Let this be a place to support our brothers and sisters in Christ as we live through some of the most difficult times we will ever face. Let this be a place to learn about true love, true freedom, and true communion with our God.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:6-7
We look forward to hearing from you!
Praying God’s richest blessings on you,
Shelley
“Can’t you quit?”
“You know that better than I do. We need the money.”
I cleared my throat, trying to find that eternal spring of hope. “You’ll find something else. They’re not paying enough for this.”
“There’s nothing else in this economy.” He placed his hand against my cheek and rubbed. “You’ll be staying home when the baby comes, and we need this job.”
“I need you, and so does this baby.” My face crumpled and I gave in to the tears. They rolled hot and fast down my face. My emotion made it harder on him, but I couldn’t stop.
He frowned and gathered me in for a hug. “I don’t want to do this. Don’t you know that?”
I nodded, but my sobs wouldn’t allow me to speak. Desperation filled my being.
And I began to pray.
Prayer is the most important and most powerful weapon in our arsenal against the enemy. As Ephesians 6 says, we do not fight against flesh and blood – or in my case, against employers and the economy – but against the powers and principalities of darkness. We are instructed to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17), to pray in the Spirit (Eph. 6:18), and to continue steadfastly in prayer (Rom. 12:12).
The desperate words I poured out to God that night continued for three years. They continue today. My husband did find another job – by the grace of God and no effort of his own – but we lived through two childbirths, two job losses, and the most frightening financial times of my life while God listened to my cries and comforted me. He drew me near and encouraged me as my friends and family supported me in prayer.
The Bible mentions prayer or some form of it nearly 600 times. What’s so important about it? Prayer is our lifeline to the eternal. Prayer keeps us connected to our Creator. Prayer changes lives, situations, and people.
It is my partner’s vision to teach us to pray. We offer unique, hand-crafted prayer beads with prayer guides to aid in teaching. These beads and prayers are absolutely Christian and point to the power of the triune God as our source.
It is my vision to illustrate the all-encompassing love of Jesus Christ that opened the door so we can pray, with boldness and confidence before the Throne of the Almighty. We are given a tremendous opportunity to approach the Creator of the universe and talk as though we would to our best friend. He longs to hear from us. So, let’s get talking. What are you saying to God? What does He say to you?
Let this be a place to share your prayers, but just as importantly, to share answers to your prayers. Let this be a place to support our brothers and sisters in Christ as we live through some of the most difficult times we will ever face. Let this be a place to learn about true love, true freedom, and true communion with our God.
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:6-7
We look forward to hearing from you!
Praying God’s richest blessings on you,
Shelley
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Companions in Prayer
Many years ago, God called me to a ministry of intercession, which is prayer for others by the leading of the Holy Spirit. God has used my prayer times with Him to let me know how much He desires time alone with all people so they can get to know Him and His desires for living in Him.
It is good to pray for others but the better way is to lead them back to the Father so they can learn dependence on Him for all their human needs.
This blog is a place where we can share together about prayer and be in prayer. God is greater than all our needs and my hope is that as we talk and pray together, we will all grow in faith and knowledge of Him.
Another aspect of this blog that we will delve into is the Bible, the Word of God. Knowing the Bible and praying God’s words back to Him infuses prayer with power. The Bible is filled with divine intent and direction from God, which if used to form prayers will allow your mind and your will to agree with God. This is how change can take place.
Where you are in your life doesn’t matter here. We welcome your input, your prayer needs, your questions, and your friendship. We welcome you here as we investigate God and His ways together. Our focus will be on prayer most of the time, but our topics will cover life. My desire is to testify to the faithfulness of God even when we don’t see the immediate evidence of life being easy.
We will investigate questions such as:
I think you have a good perspective on our goal for this blog.
I hope you will join us often and that you will weigh in on the conversation. It is my privilege to travel this path with you.
Blessings,
It is good to pray for others but the better way is to lead them back to the Father so they can learn dependence on Him for all their human needs.
This blog is a place where we can share together about prayer and be in prayer. God is greater than all our needs and my hope is that as we talk and pray together, we will all grow in faith and knowledge of Him.
Another aspect of this blog that we will delve into is the Bible, the Word of God. Knowing the Bible and praying God’s words back to Him infuses prayer with power. The Bible is filled with divine intent and direction from God, which if used to form prayers will allow your mind and your will to agree with God. This is how change can take place.
Where you are in your life doesn’t matter here. We welcome your input, your prayer needs, your questions, and your friendship. We welcome you here as we investigate God and His ways together. Our focus will be on prayer most of the time, but our topics will cover life. My desire is to testify to the faithfulness of God even when we don’t see the immediate evidence of life being easy.
We will investigate questions such as:
- How do we know that God is with us?
- How can we pray through the needs of our lives so we trust God for each and every moment of the day?
- How do we deal with tragedy?
- How do we voice our thanks and praise?
- How can we have confidence that God is real and cares about us?
- Who is Jesus?
I think you have a good perspective on our goal for this blog.
I hope you will join us often and that you will weigh in on the conversation. It is my privilege to travel this path with you.
Blessings,
Carol
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
