January
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Week 1
When We Pray:
"Pray without ceasing"...some of my best prayer time is in the car, to and from work. I'm alone, and the car is quiet.
I like the way she emphasizes that prayer is communication that goes both directions. Not only do we use prayer time to talk to God, but we're supposed to be listening for Him to speak to us.
First Priority, Prayer:
"Things can happen when we don't plan and just pray"...How many times have we said, "there's not much I can do for so and so, I can only pray." Prayer should be the first thing we think of to do, not the last thing.
I admit it, I'm a planner. I don't do well with "winging it". I have, however, come to realize how important prayer is and how much God wants to work through our prayers. With that thought, please keep our congregational meeting (January 27) in prayer, that all we decide and plan during that meeting would bring honor and glory to God.
I'd like to hear your thoughts on these two chapters. Also, try to remember each other in prayer as we take this Journey together.
In Christ, Lisa
Chapter - When we pray
Pray without ceasing.
I have to be honest.
I am not good at praying.
I hear people pray and think how wonderful it must be to be able to pray to God in that way.
As for me I never feel like I pray much, but I do talk alot.
I talk to God like I do with my friends.
I am not sure I pray without ceasing.
Sometimes I talk to him alot in a day, somedays it does not seem like I have much to say to him.
As for hearing from God.
I never seem to hear from him when I am talking to him, maybe he can't find a time to jump in once I am on a roll.
But he always does answer me as the day goes by, with a sign or a thought or a feeling of some sort.
I have learned how to pay attention to them.
So my goal with this book and the one I am going to do at the ladies meetings is to learn more about prayer.
It is something I have never studied since I got saved and that may be why I am not sure how to do it.
Chapter - First Priority : Prayer
I only have a few things I plan.
If God sends me work, I go + do it.
I feed the cats 3 times a day.
I try to walk 2 miles a day 5 times a week.
I try to get to church every Sunday.
And last but not least I put the garbage out on Wednesday and Sunday, because that is when they collect it.
The rest of my life is up for grabs.
I occasionally plan an outing with friends, but there is no set day for that either.
Usually I just try to do what I need to do in any given day, but that can change just driving home from work.
So I have learned to ask God to help me with my work.
I ask him to help me pay attention to my work at the courthouse, so I can do a good job.
I ask him to help me around the house to get the things done I need to do.
I ask him to give me the energy I need to accomplish whatever task I really need help doing.
I ask him to tell me how to solve a problem, since he knew it would happen, he can let me know how to fix it.
So I guess I do have a 1st priority of prayer, since I really do not have a plan.
PS I am not sure I like the way she described Hippies as characters. Apparently she was not COOL !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Linda K.
Hello from Indiana
I am so looking forward to this study. I believe that praying without ceasing is always being in the attitude of prayer. As a parent we want our children to come to us freely anytime with whatever is on their minds and hearts. And we need to be open to what they have to say. Isn't that just like God our Father? He desires to commune with us and he desires that we commune with Him. To me that is what prayer is----communication with the Most High God. This is a real pleasure and a high honor that is not to be taken lightly.
Gods plans are so far above mine. I like to plan and have details laid out before me. But I have found that my plans are not always Gods plans. He has used all kinds of circumstances to build my faith and to show me that I must rely on Him. After all He has everything under control and He wants us to trust Him. Plans, Plans, Plans, that is what God does. He wants me to listen to His Spirit and to rely on His guidance. Everything is for His glory and I must walk in the Spirit. This comes when I give my will to Him in prayer and let Him direct my paths.
When we look at the Lord's prayer we see that the request is--------forgive others as for forgive them.
In Matthew 6:14-15 the Word says this:
"For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But is you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sin."
Unforgiveness has no place in our hearts and is a stumbling block in our prayers. We must choose forgiveness of others and of ourselves. To be an effective prayer warrior, I must choose to forgive those who have hurt me and forgive myself of wrong choices.
Self examination is not easy, but is it needful
Praying the scriptures is an effective way to pray because we are using God's words over our circumstances. He loves us, His children, and wants us to talk to Him. But we also must listen to Him. He has much He wants to share with His children.
Lois Benson
I feel so convicted, having just read these first two chapters. I need to pray, pray much, pray much more! So if you're praying for me, ask God to help me follow through.
And a good challenge from Lisa to remember to be praying for each other each week. Think of the changes that could happen in our church!
Heather
Interesting analogy on how to pray without ceasing - it's true that when we're with even our best friends we can say we "talked constantly," and yet there were (brief!) periods of silence. I've also heard it said that that particular verse means to have an attitude of prayer - open communication with God. Why does it sound so easy on paper, but it seems so much harder in real life?
Yes, "Things can happen when we don't plan." Hmm, funny how I just stopped reading right there! I not only like to plan, I HAVE to plan ahead! This was a good reminder to go with the flow of the Holy Spirit sometimes.
Looking forward to this new journey with you,
Bethany
When We Pray:
"Pray without ceasing"...some of my best prayer time is in the car, to and from work. I'm alone, and the car is quiet.
I like the way she emphasizes that prayer is communication that goes both directions. Not only do we use prayer time to talk to God, but we're supposed to be listening for Him to speak to us.
We shouldn't be surprised that we can pray 24/7 to God...for He is with us continually, and longs for our fellowship. It is certainly an amazing privilege our Heavenly Father has given us.
"The comm. system between God and us can be open all twenty-four hours." and so it should be....what one of His Children would ever say..."The blessing system of the Lord can be open 24 hrs. a day to us."??? IT IS! Who would ever desire for God to turn His face of blessings away from us, for even a moment? It would be devastation.
First Priority, Prayer:
"Things can happen when we don't plan and just pray"...How many times have we said, "there's not much I can do for so and so, I can only pray." Prayer should be the first thing we think of to do, not the last thing. Amen!
I admit it, I'm a planner. I don't do well with "winging it". I have, however, come to realize how important prayer is and how much God wants to work through our prayers. In some way, I do think that God blesses us for our 'planning' in the sense that we are as responsible as humanly possible, yet HE Delights in showing us Himself in His works, and we can never manipulate or make a plan for God. but as we are in a mode of 24 hr. fellowship with Him, we need to ask Him for ears to hear Him and eyes to see what He may choose to show us. Lack of planning = laziness is not honoring to God, but anticipation of God's entering our lives and the lives of others with His plan is a privilege and a blessing.
I must say, these last 16 days that God has suddenly entered - unannounced in to the lives of Jim's parents have been amazing to me. Though I have been very distant from the actually situation, I am amazed to see even what He has been doing up here, hundreds of miles from Florida. And on the subject of prayer...
I have been experiencing the encouragement, blessing and strengthening of prayer by spending time in prayer with some close friends. I am convinced there can be nothing as highly extrodinary as praying with others, uniting to go to the Fathers throne of Grace as He lavishes His grace on you and those who you pray with.
I've also been reading George Whitefield's Biography...which I highly recommend. How it prompts me to press on and how these men would pray is astounding. They would gather and be praying all night...until 3 or 4 in the morning! And what they describe is amazing. Where is our hunger to meet with God? Why don't we do more of this? And then we ask where is God? Maybe He is asking...where are we? I highly encourage you to read the book, you'll be blessed.
Renee'
p.11 The first paragraph held an interesting concept on prayer to me.
"When you are with a person you love, there need not be a bit of conversation in order for you to experience real communication...the line of communication is always open"
How awesome to meditate on this thought...my heart at one with the ONE I LOVE.
Then the last paragraph held another thought provoking challenge. "The source of strength in our battle with the enemy is 'praying always.' How true! No wonder some of us lack strength perhaps the reason is not praying always. Yes too often we think of doing everything else first to our loss.
Loved the title-First Priority Prayer ~p.13
Wonderful the reality~p.14
Prayer, not plans and programs-is my most powerful tool. Amen!
Linda S.
We shouldn't be surprised that we can pray 24/7 to God...for He is with us continually, and longs for our fellowship. It is certainly an amazing privilege our Heavenly Father has given us.
Isn't this like our Father?
Being in the attitude of prayer is praying without ceasing. As a parent we want our children to come to us freely anytime with whatever is on their hearts and minds. This is true of our heavenly Father. He longs for us to commune with Him. This is what prayer is---a communication with the Most High God. What a real pleasure and real honor this and should not be taken lightly. I can't fathom my life would be without talking things over with Father.
In some way, I do think that God blesses us for our 'planning' in the sense that we are as responsible as humanly possible, yet HE Delights in showing us Himself in His works, and we can never manipulate or make a plan for God. but as we are in a mode of 24 hr. fellowship with Him, we need to ask Him for ears to hear Him and eyes to see what He may choose to show us. Lack of planning = laziness is not honoring to God, but anticipation of God's entering our lives and the lives of others with His plan is a privilege and a blessing.
I agree with you. God has used so many circumstances in my life to draw me to Him. He has plans for us that are much better than anything we can plan for ourselves. We need His direction in every area of our lives. And through a close relationship with Him---praying and listening-He shows us the plans He has for us. Reading the Word and meditating on it helps us to see clearly even if it is only one step at a time.
There is something we must keep in mind. when we look at the Lord's Prayer, we see that the request is: "Forgive other as we forgive others." In Matthew 6:14-15 the Word says this: "For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also for you. But if you do not forgive their sins, your Father will not forgive your sin." What this says if we have unforgiveness in our hearts, our Father does not hear us. Unforgiveness is a stumbling block to answered prayers. Let us examine ourselves.
Your Sister in Christ in Indiana
Lois Benson
As I read these chapters (particularly Chapter 1 with its emphasis on prayer being communication with God) I was reminded that before I truly knew the Lord, I said prayers - but now I pray. I know that some people find prewritten prayers helpful, but in my case, I was simply fulfilling some sort of duty, going through some sort of ritual I made up. How different that sort of thing is from actually communicating with the Lord. How thankful I am that anytime, anywhere, first thing, last thing, and in-between, I can boldly come to God in prayer knowing that I am acceptable because of Jesus' blood shed for me.
Gayle
Pray! When I wake in the morning the first thing I try to do is say good morning to the Lord. I usually pray while I am in the shower. I dry my hair in front of our pellet stove and I kneel and pray. I need to pray. If I forget I feel like my entire day has started on the wrong foot. When I forget, I apologize to the Lord and confess that I am in need of his presences in my life. The rest of the day I pray as I need to which is often, " Lord help me hold my tongue, Lord forgive that thought..." I understand that I am so blessed to be a child of God and that I am completely weak and can't please the father without his help.
I like the first chapter.
The second chapter is also me. I do not like to plan. I like to let God work his will his way in my life. I do what I believe I am lead to do and try to leave room for the Father to use me. I am always willing to try new things and jump in where needed. I believe that is how the Lord created me. I truly appreciate planners because without you the work would be crazy, but that is not who I am.
God bless.
Sue
I am one of those that talks to God a lot while I am driving. It is so comforting to know that I can talk to Him any time, anywhere. Problem for me is that communication is a two way thing, I do a lot of talking and I'm not so sure I do a lot of listening. Sometimes I'm not even sure if I am talking more to myself than to God. I guess He hears me anyway. I am realizing more and more that: Yeah I can talk to God, in my car, while I am doing housework, or even exercising but I really need to take the time to stop and put all things aside so that I can listen, this kind of ties in with the planning. I find I make all kinds of plans most of the time it is the "mindless" day to day kind of things. Maybe I should get up each day and say "God what is YOUR plan for me today?", maybe something new and different will come about or scary and "stretching". Then there are the bigger things should I take up this mission trip? Should I take on the responsibility of teaching Sunday school? Easily I can say, nah I don't feel like it, or I don't know enough, without even thinking twice about asking God what His plan is. So communication requires both speaking and listening God hears me. Do I hear Him?
Laura
Week 2
Lord, Teach Us To Pray
Acts 1:13-14: "When they had entered the city, they went up to the upper room where they were staying; that is, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. "
How much would we be able to accomplish for God if we would with one mind continually devote ourselves to prayer? I can't even imagine the fellowship that the disciples in Acts 1 had with God and with each other!
At our previous church, one of our missionaries, PC Alexander from Pocket Testament League in India, told us about their prayer team. A group of women gather 5 days a week, pray for up to 6 hours daily. They take requests, and they pray for us in the U.S.!
You can read about them here: Pocket Testament League, India
And we feel pretty good if we spend 4 hours praying 2 or 3 times a year!
Before You Pray for Others...
This chapter really convicted me the first time I read it, and it convicts me still! After I read this chapter, I started reciting Psalm 139:23-24 during my prayer time, and especially before communion! And, God never fails to bring to my mind sin that I need to repent of!
When I lead the Women's day of prayer, we start with a prayer of confession. I don't know if that's enough (seeing that Evelyn's group took 6 weeks to get past that stage!), but I was hesitant to emphasize it more.
James 5:16 says: "Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much."
Confession is an important part of effectual prayer. I feel we fall short in this area.
I appreciated everyone's comments last week. I'd love to hear what you have to say this week!
In Christ, Lisa
I am very interested in the confession aspect of prayer. Nehemiah 1:6 and Daniel 9:4-5,8 mentions both Nehemiah and Daniel in prayer not only confessing their personal sin, but also the sins of the people.
To me this is such a challenge and a new thought pertaining to prayer... that of confessing of the sins of other people also as well as my own.
In this light I can see why it would take weeks and weeks of confession. I have personally done this on occasion and have seen God's hand of mercy at work .
I agree praying Psalm 139:23&24 is so very helpful.
It is God's Spirit who brings our sin to light.
Without God's Spirit I am blind.
Linda S.
Lord Teach Us To Pray
This chapter made me feel better, because I do have conversation with God.
I may not feel I pray well, but I am good at talking.
I however do not call him Father.
I always say God or Jesus.
I am not sure I have ever thought or felt that he is my father.
I never felt close to my father, who passed away along time ago now. I could never really talk to him, but I could talk to my grandfather. My grandfather was the best friend I think I will ever really have, although he is gone too.
Maybe I need to think of God in the same way I thought of my grandfather.
Maybe that will help me feel closer to him.
Before You Pray For Others
Well this is interesting.
After I got saved I did an exercise to forgive all the people I held a grudge with, for many different offenses against me.
And within a few weeks I did forgive them all.
I felt like such a burden was lifted off of my shoulders.
BUT MY SINS - WRONG PRIORITIES, WRONG THOUGHTS, WRONG REACTIONS, WRONG ATTITIDES
I know God has changed some of this in my life since I am saved for the better.
BUT I AM AFRAID TO SAY -
DEAR FATHER, HELP ME TO RECOGNIZE WHAT YOU CALL SIN IN MY LIFE, SO THAT I MAY CONFESS IT TO YOU.
If it took her 6 weeks, it will probably take me 6 years.
AM I READY TO DO THIS ????????????
I DON'T KNOW.
I am not so sure I want to know.
I guess I will have to find a way to deal with this, as it appears to be an important issue, but I am not sure I was ready to read this today.
I guess WRONG THOUGHTS would be a good place to start, since I do not want to think about this.
WOW !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Linda K.
Good Morning Everyone!
I enjoyed the chapter, "Before You Pray For Others". Now that I am retired, I have more time to reflect on what needs to be refined in my life. All of us have had (do have) rough times and often I, for one, have not always reacted in the way I should have. When I ask God to show me the wrong attitudes, thoughts, priorities, and reactions that I have, He does. Believe me, what He shows me is sometimes painful and alarming. Oh, it is so easy to stay in those old patterns and to protect my rights to have them. It is comfortable to stay where things are familiar. But God is calling me to a deeper walk with Him. I must step out of my comfort zone and trust Him.
This is not as easy as it sounds. My earthly father never praised me, told me loved me, nor was supportive. It is so easy to view God, my heavenly Father in the same light. However, I have learned that God is totally different from my earthly father. He loves me and I am accepted in the Beloved--Christ Jesus. God gives unconditional love. This is something I did not have growing up. Therefore, I thought I had to earn my Father's love by doing "good" things. However, Father loves me no matter what I do or don't do. When He corrects me, there is no condemnation. Sometimes I visualize God holding my hand as we walk along the seashore. Sometimes I see myself sitting on His lap or leaning my head on His shoulder when I need comfort.
You are probably asking, "What does this have to do with Psalm 66:18. Abuse can foster wrong attitudes, thoughts, priorities, and reactions. Judgements are made that affect how we view ourselves, others, and God. When God reveals these wrong judgements and responses, he does so layer at a time---like peeling an onion. This comes through prayer and is a process.
When the healing came, it was freedom as I pray for others.
In the chapter, "Pray first, Plan Later", I am reminded about power that I take for granted. When darkness comes, I enter a room and flip the light switch for light. When I get into the car, I turn the key to start the engine. If I do not rely on the POWER behind these actions, I will still be in the dark and I won't go anywhere.
This is true in my spiritual life too. No matter how hard I plan, if it is not God's will, or if I don't plug into God's POWER, I will be in the dark and I won't go anywhere. The plans that I make without His direction will accomplish little for His glory.
How can I plug into His POWER? It is accomplish through fellowship and communication.
This is called prayer.
I listen to a Southern Gospel music station here in Bloomington, In. One of my favorite songs has a line that says, "God has a bigger plans than these little bitty eyes can see."
Isn't this very true?
The chapter, Thanking God in All Things," called to mind what James said, (James 1:2-3) to count it all joy when you fall into various trials. Even then, we are to be thankful. He lets nothing into our lives without first filtering it through those nailed pierced hands of love. I agree that there are times when God has us WAIT long enough, that when the prayer is answered, there is not doubt Who will get the credit. I have been waiting for a wayward son to come home. He has turned His back on God and on our family. God is working it out, and in time---His time--our son will come to know God and he will return to his family. When it is done, there will be no doubt Who gets the credit!
Thank Him and Praise His Holy Name
In Christ
Lois Benson
Just a few scattered thoughts about the chapters we read for this week:
Chapter 3 – When I first read this chapter I was reminded of something that stood out to me in my reading of Colossians. In Col. 1:2 Paul mentions God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. In 1:3 he gives thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the space of just a few words Paul reminds us of two profound truths – Jesus is the Son of God, and God is our heavenly Father. How I want and need to hold onto both of these truths as I pray and live.
Chapter 4 – Along with the comments in the book, Lisa’s notes brought up some thoughts. The Bible tells us to confess our sins one to another. How do we do that in a way that is helpful? Is it only pride that keeps me from confessing particular sins in a group setting or is it best done with only one or two others that we are particularly close to? Or are we simply supposed to confess to those people against whom we have sinned? When I do confess to others I sometimes feel like I’ve been relieved of a burden. Is that because I’ve handled the situation as God would want me to or because sometimes the people to whom I am talking will then admit their own sins, and I no longer feel like the only sinner around. I know the answer should be the former, but I wonder . . .
Gayle
Yay! My book came :0)
Here goes!
Lord, Teach Us To Pray....
That is my prayer. At times I feel like I have no idea how to pray. Silly huh? My life is marked but answers to prayer!
I am thinking too hard?
I am so glad He is faithful and He will show me as long as I am open and willing to listen.
It obviously won't be in my timing or in my way though:)
Before You Pray for Others...
Sooo convicting, so freeing. Confessing sin is the best feeling, in a way:) because you know all will be OK. It just eats away at your insides if you don't. I shared this devo with my hubby, he thought it was great. We find so much peace sharing and confessing our sins with each other. We help each other through them. I am so thankful. Cause no matter who you share your confessions with, friend, sister, spouse, there is freedom in you not being the only Christian who knows, but that another is praying for you. Satan hates this. He would rather beat you up in your own mind. Just be careful who you tell, it's gotta be someone you know can handle your confession and encourage you. Also, someone who has your spiritual health in mind.
I hope this all makes sense. Probably not. Praying for you all, that we grow closer to our Daddy.
Michele
"How much would we be able to accomplish for God"? Let's find out! I've had a couple of very specific prayer requests answered in the past week, and that is so encouraging-----that is, it encourages me to ask for more!
And I so appreciated our time of prayer at last Sunday's meeting of women. I'm looking forward to all that will happen in these two studies this year.
As for confession before requests, I'm not sure if I would be brave enough or honest enough to spend 6 weeks at it. Not that I don't need it. As Christians, we like to cover up our sins, don't we? At the end of this chapter I wrote YIKES!! But as the author reminds us, we do need to "clean up our own lives first". I plan to use the verses Lisa mentioned, Psalm 139:23-24
Love to all,
Heather
The Psalm 66:18 was very hard for me to read this week. During the time I was waiting for Mark to come home, I prayed that God would hear the desires of my heart. As I read about sin being confessed, I realized that I had much that I needed to confess to Him before my fellowship could continue. I liked the part about the women asking for the Holy Spirit to find those sins that we don't even know about. Our holy Father wants us to fellowship with him that he wants to change our hearts before he can talk with us. This is something that will be hard for us to do but in the end will be for our benefit! It sounds like all of us have to be able to bend our pride and fall before our Heavenly Father!
Beth
I think people and situations would really change if we (as in, me!) would take these chapters to heart and actually follow the advice. I don't know why talking to my Heavenly Father is so hard - talking to my earthly father was not usually difficult. On the surface it's easy to say that of course I know how to pray, but I think I don't really know how to pray at all in the way that Evelyn Christenson talks about!! As far as confessing my own sins before praying for anyone/anything else, I think I am too afraid to delve too deeply into myself! I am afraid that it would take me waaaay longer than 6 weeks to get through all of my stuff - never mind confessing congregational and national sins! I appreciated Gayle's comments on that particular chapter; I think they mirror my own sometimes. So, what am I going to do while reading this book? Good question!
Bethany
I love to pray. I often feel people are uncomfortable with praying aloud. I know the first time I went to a Wednesday prayer meeting I was a teenager and when we broke up into groups to pray I was so afraid that I wouldn't know what to say or how. The only prayers I ever knew were memorized. As a child we would kneel at our bed side and pray the rosary with my mother.(I was raised catholic)..but I never talked to God about life. I am still learning to pray. My favorite verse on prayer is the invitation to "come boldly to the throne of grace..." Our heavenly Father wants us to come with the assurance that He wants to hear our prayers.
I guess I need to think more about the need to confess sin before praying. I have always believed that all my sins are forgiven and that there isn't anything else that I need to do but believe Jesus has paid the full price and be thankful. I try not to sin intentionally but as with us all we have sinful natures and deceitful hearts. I do ask forgiveness for being stubborn or selfish or prideful ... when I recognize it has been blantant and willful. I ask for a repentant heart and thank God that He knows me and still loves me. I don't want unrepented sin to hinder my walk and prayer life.
Blessings
Sue
Week 3
Pray First, Plan Later
This is a great chapter to have right before our congregational meeting! How many times do we make plans, then pray to God asking Him to bless our plans? It would be so much better if we prayed first for God to show us what plans to make, then followed His instructions!
I'm going to pray for the congregational meeting every day this week. Who will join me?
Thanking God in all Things
This is one area where I fall short. I'm not good at keeping a written list of prayer requests, so I know that I don't see every answer to prayer. That also means that I don't always thank God for answers to prayer.
I am thankful, however, for a God who wants us to come to Him with our requests and who delights in giving us good things! (Matthew 7:11).
Have a great week! I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
In Christ, Lisa
I believe that these two chapters go hand in hand. We need to plan after we ask God for his plans. Then we can thank him for his answers. I have been so thankful for the young ladies doing our Discovery Club. Pamela and Kelly were a definite answer to prayer. This group started as our plan but God has really done the work. I believe that God has blessed these two young women because of their willingness to do God's will. As a mom of one of the kids, this is where I thank God for his plans in our church. I echo what Lisa said about the Lord delighting in giving us good things. This was a good thing! I am very excited to know where God is leading this group!
Beth
Some good reminders. It sure makes sense that we would pray FIRST, then plan after God shows us the planning to be done.
It is always dangerous to have a plan and then ask God to jump on board, joining us in what we may call His work, but it is really our own work. A good verse to remember is....'show me Thy glory" and that God would establish HIs works in us. Such a great reminder that we may often see just a 10th or even less of what God is doing....when in reality there is 9 tenths of God's working that we havenot been shown. This helps me when I feel discouraged.
On pg. 20 it says..."God wants to open heaven and flood us." Yes it is true, but I think we need to remember that His FIRST desire is not to simply flood us with His blessings...but to FLOOD Christ with His glory....or to shower US with the glory of Christ..to show the earth the glory of His beloved Son...yes He does want to bless us but more than anything else...He wants to SHOW OFF HIS SON...and as He does and we see His Son more glorious, we will be blessed above all else...and THIS is exciting!
One thing made me sad was on pg. 19 the authors list of things we are doing for Christ, I noticed they were all Church, Christian oriented, within the Christian atmosphere. I do believe there is much more out there that Christ wants us to be a part of that is outside the walls of our churches and Chrstian comfort zone.
Renee' VanWert
PRAY FIRST, PLAN LATER:
This chapter was convicting, not new, but convicting nonetheless. I have a tendency to hit the ground running (at least in the planning stages) when it comes to projects. This chapter comes at a time when things for this year's VBS are just beginning. It was a good reminder. I am trying to pray before I think so that God's plan will be accomplished. It's exciting because He can come up with far better stuff than we can!
THANKING GOD IN ALL THINGS:
I am often guilty of taking for granted God's answers to my prayers as the author writes about on p. 22. I have never been good at keeping a journal of my devotions, but a while ago I started writing at least one thing down each day that God lays on my heart. It may be something I've read in scripture, some way I've seen God intervene, or a particular request I've made in prayer. This has helped me a lot in both recognizing God's answers and remembering specifically what I have prayed for. I've got a long way to go, but I see some progress.
Gayle
P.S. Lisa, good idea about praying each day this week for our upcoming business meeting. I'll be doing that.
Pray 1st Plan Later
This reminds me of Chapter 2 - 1st Priority Prayer
I am not sure I ask God everyday what he wants me to do, but when people ask me to do something I then ask God if I should. Sometimes he says yes, sometimes to their disappointment he says no. I am fine with either answer. But maybe I should ask him more often what he wants me to do. I guess I will have to try that, once I finish with all my unconfessed sins of which I am still working on. and working on. I don't want my mind to explode.
Thanking God in all Things
I have tried doing a journal many times, but I do not keep up with it. So I am not going to try that again.
But it is easy to thank God everyday all day.
I can thank him for waking up, for a hot shower, coffee, clothes to wear, SHOES, birds, animals, grass, flowers, rain, snow, family, friends, work, Heat, electric, TV, eyesight, taking my walks each day, food, chocolate, a warm coat, gloves etc. etc. etc. ( Did I forget to mention Cats )
I often thank him for saving me and changing my life for the better.
I find the hardest times to thank him are when things go wrong, but once you see the outcome he is due all the glory.
I find that he gives me problems because he wants to teach me something or he wants to show me how he can deal with the problem as long as I take it to him.
So the best thing to do is just get up each day and thank God as the day goes on for all the things he gives us, because he gives all 24 hours of the day and we sometimes only look for the outcome to what we have ask for.
Linda K.
Pray First, Plan Later
This is a great chapter to have right before our congregational meeting! How many times do we make plans, then pray to God asking Him to bless our plans? It would be so much better if we prayed first for God to show us what plans to make, then followed His instructions!
Yes indeed! I am thankful that God has stopped me a few times from plunging ahead with my own plans. Hindsight shows what disasters might have occurred. How much better to ask Him for direction first.
I'm going to pray for the congregational meeting every day this week. Who will join me?
I will. Good idea.
Thanking God in all Things
This is one area where I fall short. I'm not good at keeping a written list of prayer requests, so I know that I don't see every answer to prayer. That also means that I don't always thank God for answers to prayer.
For the past few years I have been journaling thoughts during my devotional time, but not usually prayer requests. Will try to add that.
Heather
PRAY FIRST, PLAN LATER
This was an excellent reminder which would save me so much time and frustration. I especially liked the thought on p. 20 "Instead of following our tiny, tiny plans, God wants to open heaven and flood us . It's exciting."
My prayer shall be as was stated...
Dear God, Teach me to plug into your power
instead of just my limited resources...
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THANKING GOD IN ALL THINGS.
Yes, as mentioned on p. 22 "Another reason why we don't thank God for His answer is that frequently we don't recognize events and gifts as answers to our prayers. We just take His bountiful supply or dramatic action for granted when it comes."
How sad :>(
I do think it is a good idea to jot down prayer requests. This is revealing.
Lord , Thank for Your answers.
How blessed we are and don't even realize our awesome
God is at work always and what a joy to be able to communicate
with HIM. Knowing His answers as OMNISCIENT GOD are always best.
Linda S.
Hi everyone!
The most convicting part of this study so far for me has been that I need to break-out of the idea that in order to have meaningful prayer, I must first set aside a large piece of time where I am sure not to be distracted. Being newly married, and learning how to take care of an entire house and cook dinner every night (always an adventure) in addition to working full-time... these large chunks of time rarely appear.
Instead of waiting for what feels like the perfect moment to pray, I just need to seize the moment and pray constantly! I'm working on it :)
Jodi
I need to work on being "well-planned". I love to pray but I am not a very good planner.
I do not keep a prayer journal. I have often thought about starting one. I have prayer requests written down but not in one place where I can go back and track answers. I believe God answers all my prayers, always in His way. What I really need to work on is praying more for His will His way.
Blessings
Sue
These 2 chapters were convicting and made some of my faults glare quite obviously. This week I should have been praying more and worrying less about the plans I had already made and thanking Him for His provisions instead of focusing on the other "provisions" I wanted. This is going to be a challenging book, I can tell already! I did like Jodi's idea to just pray - just do it - and use whatever small pieces of time are available instead of waiting for the perfect time and a large chunk of time. I can think of all kinds of reasons why my prayer life is not where it should be, but it just boils down to a bunch of worthless excuses.
Bethany
Pray First, Plan Later
If it is our flesh that plans this it will always be a challenge. I am guilty. As we walk closer to Him and His word, our flesh will be pushed aside by the spirit and will be praying all along so our little decisions and plans with be in accordance with His will.
Thanking God in all Things
God has placed it on my heart to have a prayer journal, I made this several years ago. I have recorded back to 2004 of prayers and answers from God!!! It is amazing! He surely does care about every little detail and hearts desire! If any of you desire to see how I organize this journal, I'd be glad to share the ideas God has given me. Just e-mail me!
Michele
Week 4
Private Prayer -- Public Praying
For me, private prayer is more natural than public praying. I grew up in a church where only the pastor prayed publicly, unless we were reading a prayer out of the bulletin. Once I got saved, it was natural to pray to God on my own, but it wasn't until I got into a Bible believing church (7 years after I got saved!) that I actually got into public praying in small groups.
I enjoy prayer meeting, and I miss praying with everyone on Wednesday night, now that I'm involved in Discovery Club.
Me?...Sin?
For those of us still confessing our sins from Chapter 4...now we have more to add to our list! ;-)
How many times have we been guilty of "little Christian sins"? We need to see sin as God sees it. Praise God that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9).
Lisa
Private Prayer - Public Praying
It seems I have an easier time with public prayer because don't lose my attention as easily. Does that make sense? When I am alone I and easily follow my wandering mind to plans of the day, my to- d- list etc. In the prayer at the end of this excerpt, it says "help me maintain discipline in my prayer life" That is what I need!
Me?....Sin?
I am so in agreement. it is so easy to excuse the little sins. It is a constant reminder to think of the fact that sin is sin, no matter how we justify it , it is what Jesus bore on the cross for us and He hates it! The little ones are just as daily as the "bigger" ones.
"Dear Jesus open my eyes to the things in my life that are an offense to you."
Thanks Ladies for all your insights. I am learning a lot :)
Michele
Private Prayer-Public Prayer
This section really warmed my heart. I love the group concept of prayer and as was stated in the first paragraph this concept of prayer is important.
Yet when the analogy of secret prayer being an iceberg was mentioned it really inspired me. Prayer being 8/9's out of sight really challenged me. I think perhaps if more had that closeness with the LORD and saw His hand of mercy working perhaps there would be more willing to sacrifice their time to join in group prayer. In my opinion too few see God's hand of mercy active in answer to their private prayer and this is why there is so little interest in group prayer.
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Me?...Sin?
Ouch...That main sin confessed of "our superior attitude concerning our spiritual state compared to others, and the idea we should pray for them" really spoke to my heart. Then also the matter of divided motives truly holds a grain of truth.
That old matter of self and ego sure rears it's ugly head frequently. Just yesterday I was talking to my one daughter-in-law about checking my motives in a personal quest I have to be involved in a particular ministry. I told her i have to ask myself ...Am I wanting to do this truly for the LORD or is it for my personal fulfillment and affirmation that i receive.
What a wonderful prayer closing this section...
Dear Father I confess as sin whatever YOU bring to my mind.
(HE DOES, in His great mercy, bring things to mind.)
Linda S.
Private Prayer - Public Praying
Sometimes we seem to forget what a privilege it is to pray. Think of it - an opportunity to commune with the Author of the universe and the Redeemer of our souls! For me private prayer takes on many forms - quick, short prayers throughout the day, praying through a list of things important to me and those around me, and more extended times of meditating on God's word, praying through scripture, and praying about whatever the Spirit lays on my heart. Yet it takes discipline - especially for those extended times. Since my kids are all in school, and I have a flexible schedule, I have felt convicted to have those extended times of prayer more frequently. BUT, it still takes discipline.
As far as public prayer goes, I guess I can thankfully say that I don't find it too difficult. My prayers may not sound beautiful, but that's not the point. There's something special about praying with other believers. I guess, though, I'm not very good about praying with others when it's impromptu. Praying in a scheduled prayer meeting (particularly with people I'm familiar with) is one thing, but I guess I need to get better at praying with others - and even suggesting it - whenever the situation calls for it. It seems like that's something God would want His children to do.
Me? . . .Sin?
All I can say is . . . CONVICTING!
Gayle
Private prayer - Public praying
I am much more comfortable praying in private than I am in a group.
I am sure that is because I do not feel I pray well compared to other people I hear pray.
But as her prayer states - Help me to maintain discipline in my private prayer life so I will mature & grow nearer to you daily.
And that is my wish to grow nearer to God with each passing day.
ME? ..... SIN?
Back to this again !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have 2 pages of things from the last chapter I read on this, but I have not written anymore down for a week now.
Not that I can't find anymore, I just haven't corrected the first 2 pages yet.
She sure does like to make a point, but I know it is for my own good.
We have so many of our own sin problems, I wonder how we ever have time to find fault with other people.
Linda K.
Public/Private prayer
I was pretty "old" in my Christian faith before I became comfortable praying aloud with others. Even now I find that it's easier to pray with some than others. Why is that?
Anyway, I like Evelyn's comment that our prayer should be like those icebergs. I have been spending more time praying alone, encouraged in part by these book studies. But there's always room for improvement!
Me...sin?
I was already feeling convicted about my motives and other "secret sins" from a previous chapter. The Lord must be trying to get His message into my heart! I'm guilty of them all: superior attitude, divided motives, pretense and pride. Sigh. It is so much easier to see these faults in others than to confess them in my own life.
I'm so thankful for these studies on prayer to point out my shortcomings. Hopefully I'll work through some of them by the end of the year.
Heather