Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-17
Dear Lord,
I thank You that I can put on Your armor and have the strength to stand firm. I know our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of wickedness. God, I pray that every day I will be faithful to gird my loins with truth, put on the breastplate of righteousness, shod my feet with the gospel of peace, take up the shield of faith, put on the helmet of salvation and pick up the sword of the Spirit.
Lord, I relish the time I spend in Your word every morning. I ask that Your Spirit will guide and direct me in Your word, and use that time to clothe me in Your armor. Lord, I need the protection that Your word affords, and I thank You for providing it.
Gratefully I pray,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 29
Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers. III John 1:2
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I praise You that You are the Great Physician. You are Jehovah Rapha, God who heals all our diseases. I thank You for Your healing power. I pray today for those who are sick and suffering. God, if it is Your will, I pray that You will heal them, make them whole, cure their disease and make them well. Jesus, bring comfort to them and encourage them. I pray that they would look to You as the Great Physician and believe with a bold faith that You can heal. Lord, if there are doctors or other medical professionals involved, I pray that You would give them wisdom and discernment in these situations. Lord, we so look forward to heaven where there will be no sickness. Until then, I ask that You would show Your healing power to those who are in need.
For Your glory,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I praise You that You are the Great Physician. You are Jehovah Rapha, God who heals all our diseases. I thank You for Your healing power. I pray today for those who are sick and suffering. God, if it is Your will, I pray that You will heal them, make them whole, cure their disease and make them well. Jesus, bring comfort to them and encourage them. I pray that they would look to You as the Great Physician and believe with a bold faith that You can heal. Lord, if there are doctors or other medical professionals involved, I pray that You would give them wisdom and discernment in these situations. Lord, we so look forward to heaven where there will be no sickness. Until then, I ask that You would show Your healing power to those who are in need.
For Your glory,
Amen.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
At the Cross There's Room
When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
Colossians 2:13-14
You may already be familiar with this hymn in the recent rendering of this text by Michael W. Smith. I love his version, and I love this one too – it’s not the tune but the wonderful words that matter. Praise God with me for these precious and amazing truths:
There is room at the cross for you!
It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. I Timothy 1:15
He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. I Peter 2:24
The Savior hears your burdens, and carries them!
Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. Psalm 55:22
Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation. Psalm 68:19
Love’s atoning work is done!
After this, Jesus, knowing that all things had already been accomplished, to fulfill the Scripture, said, "I am thirsty." A jar full of sour wine was standing there; so they put a sponge full of the sour wine upon a branch of hyssop and brought it up to His mouth. Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.
John 19:28-30
For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit. I Peter 3:18
Streams of boundless mercy flow!
He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5
But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. I Peter 1:3-5
Oh that all the world might know, at the cross there’s room!
At the Cross There’s Room
Words by Fanny Crosby
Mourner, wheresoever thou art,
At the cross there’s room!
Tell the burden of thy heart,
At the cross there’s room!
Tell it in thy Savior’s ear,
Cast away thine every fear,
Only speak, and He will hear;
At the cross there’s room!
Haste thee, wand’rer, tarry not,
At the cross there’s room!
Seek that consecrated spot;
At the cross there’s room!
Heavy laden, sore oppressed,
Love can soothe thy troubled breast;
In the Savior find thy rest;
At the cross there’s room!
Thoughtless sinner, come today;
At the cross there’s room!
Hark! the Bride and Spirit say,
At the cross there’s room!
Now a living fountain see,
Opened there for you and me,
Rich and poor, for bond and free,
At the cross there’s room!
Blessed thought! For every one
At the cross there’s room!
Love’s atoning work is done;
At the cross there’s room!
Streams of boundless mercy flow,
Free to all who thither go;
Oh, that all the world might know
At the cross there’s room!
Colossians 2:13-14
You may already be familiar with this hymn in the recent rendering of this text by Michael W. Smith. I love his version, and I love this one too – it’s not the tune but the wonderful words that matter. Praise God with me for these precious and amazing truths:
There is room at the cross for you!
It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. I Timothy 1:15
He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. I Peter 2:24
The Savior hears your burdens, and carries them!
Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken. Psalm 55:22
Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden, The God who is our salvation. Psalm 68:19
Love’s atoning work is done!
After this, Jesus, knowing that all things had already been accomplished, to fulfill the Scripture, said, "I am thirsty." A jar full of sour wine was standing there; so they put a sponge full of the sour wine upon a branch of hyssop and brought it up to His mouth. Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, "It is finished!" And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.
John 19:28-30
For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit. I Peter 3:18
Streams of boundless mercy flow!
He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5
But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. I Peter 1:3-5
Oh that all the world might know, at the cross there’s room!
At the Cross There’s Room
Words by Fanny Crosby
Mourner, wheresoever thou art,
At the cross there’s room!
Tell the burden of thy heart,
At the cross there’s room!
Tell it in thy Savior’s ear,
Cast away thine every fear,
Only speak, and He will hear;
At the cross there’s room!
Haste thee, wand’rer, tarry not,
At the cross there’s room!
Seek that consecrated spot;
At the cross there’s room!
Heavy laden, sore oppressed,
Love can soothe thy troubled breast;
In the Savior find thy rest;
At the cross there’s room!
Thoughtless sinner, come today;
At the cross there’s room!
Hark! the Bride and Spirit say,
At the cross there’s room!
Now a living fountain see,
Opened there for you and me,
Rich and poor, for bond and free,
At the cross there’s room!
Blessed thought! For every one
At the cross there’s room!
Love’s atoning work is done;
At the cross there’s room!
Streams of boundless mercy flow,
Free to all who thither go;
Oh, that all the world might know
At the cross there’s room!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 28
Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels around the throne and the living creatures and the elders; and the number of them was myriads of myriads, and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing." And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever." And the four living creatures kept saying, "Amen " And the elders fell down and worshiped. Revelation 5:11-14
Almighty God,
I come before You today to worship. To declare that You are worthy. To You be the blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever. Lord, to You be all the glory and the praise, for You are the lamb that was slain. It was Your precious blood that was shed and that saves me. May every created thing give You glory.
Lord, I so look forward to the day when I join You in heaven and sing (with a loud voice!) with the myriads and myriads, thousands of thousands "Worthy is the Lamb!"
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.
In Your amazing name,
Amen.
Almighty God,
I come before You today to worship. To declare that You are worthy. To You be the blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever. Lord, to You be all the glory and the praise, for You are the lamb that was slain. It was Your precious blood that was shed and that saves me. May every created thing give You glory.
Lord, I so look forward to the day when I join You in heaven and sing (with a loud voice!) with the myriads and myriads, thousands of thousands "Worthy is the Lamb!"
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come.
In Your amazing name,
Amen.
Friday, March 27, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 27
He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor. Proverbs 22:9
Dear Lord,
Today I pray for those who are hungry. I thank You that I always have enough to eat, more than enough, and food of every kind. I thank You that I can go into any store in town and buy exactly what I want, even if it is a non-essential. I fully realize that not everyone in my community or in this nation can do that, and for that blessing I am grateful.
Dear Lord, I ask your protection over those who are hungry, in this nation and around the world. I pray that You would turn the hearts of those who have plenty to eat, that we would be generous in sharing what we have so that others don't go hungry.
Lord, make us good stewards of what You have given us - give us wisdom and discernment so that we are not wasteful.
Lord, I pray Your blessing over those who are ministering to the hungry. Give them strength for their task and bless their efforts that the food they have to distribute may be multiplied.
Father, give us generous hearts and minds, that we might graciously share what You have given us.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
Today I pray for those who are hungry. I thank You that I always have enough to eat, more than enough, and food of every kind. I thank You that I can go into any store in town and buy exactly what I want, even if it is a non-essential. I fully realize that not everyone in my community or in this nation can do that, and for that blessing I am grateful.
Dear Lord, I ask your protection over those who are hungry, in this nation and around the world. I pray that You would turn the hearts of those who have plenty to eat, that we would be generous in sharing what we have so that others don't go hungry.
Lord, make us good stewards of what You have given us - give us wisdom and discernment so that we are not wasteful.
Lord, I pray Your blessing over those who are ministering to the hungry. Give them strength for their task and bless their efforts that the food they have to distribute may be multiplied.
Father, give us generous hearts and minds, that we might graciously share what You have given us.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 26
Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-4
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I need to be reminded of this exhortation every day, every hour. My selfishness is so prevalent in my life - help me keep my eyes on You and act as You would act - regarding others as more important than me, focusing on others' needs rather than my own. Lord, I know I fall short in this area. Please forgive my sin, and give me opportunities to practice this principle, to make this a new way of life. I thank You that I can do all things, even difficult selfless things that are contrary to my sinful nature, because Your Spirit lives in me.
Humbly I pray,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I need to be reminded of this exhortation every day, every hour. My selfishness is so prevalent in my life - help me keep my eyes on You and act as You would act - regarding others as more important than me, focusing on others' needs rather than my own. Lord, I know I fall short in this area. Please forgive my sin, and give me opportunities to practice this principle, to make this a new way of life. I thank You that I can do all things, even difficult selfless things that are contrary to my sinful nature, because Your Spirit lives in me.
Humbly I pray,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 25
In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8
Dear Lord,
I thank You that You make me dwell in safety. I praise You that You are in control of this Universe and this Earth and that You can protect us from danger. Today, Lord, I ask Your protection over those who serve us on this Earth to keep us in safety. I ask that You would guide and direct the police officers, fire fighters, emergency responders, medics, and everyone else who works every day to keep us out of harm's way or to restore safety in our lives. Lord, just as they protect us, I ask that You would protect them. Give them wisdom as they make decisions, probably usually within split seconds. Give them discernment. Lord, unite them in their efforts to keep the peace and ensure safety in our cities and towns and communities.
Holy God, I acknowledge that You are the supreme safety giver and protector. You alone can bring peace, and You sent it through Your son to this Earth. I ask that You would draw those in these positions near to You that they may know the Prince of Peace, and that they would feel Your mighty arm of protection surrounding them. I pray that You would turn their hearts to You, that they will serve You as they serve the people.
In Your name and for Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I thank You that You make me dwell in safety. I praise You that You are in control of this Universe and this Earth and that You can protect us from danger. Today, Lord, I ask Your protection over those who serve us on this Earth to keep us in safety. I ask that You would guide and direct the police officers, fire fighters, emergency responders, medics, and everyone else who works every day to keep us out of harm's way or to restore safety in our lives. Lord, just as they protect us, I ask that You would protect them. Give them wisdom as they make decisions, probably usually within split seconds. Give them discernment. Lord, unite them in their efforts to keep the peace and ensure safety in our cities and towns and communities.
Holy God, I acknowledge that You are the supreme safety giver and protector. You alone can bring peace, and You sent it through Your son to this Earth. I ask that You would draw those in these positions near to You that they may know the Prince of Peace, and that they would feel Your mighty arm of protection surrounding them. I pray that You would turn their hearts to You, that they will serve You as they serve the people.
In Your name and for Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 24
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith. Galatians 6:9-10
Dear Lord,
I pray for those who are doing good, especially those who are doing good under some form of duress. Lord, encourage them so they will not lose heart. Give them a glimpse of the reward they will reap if they do not grow weary. Lord, give us all the ability and perseverance to do good to others even when we don't feel like it. Show us how we can do good to one another, and minister through us for Your glory.
In Your name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I pray for those who are doing good, especially those who are doing good under some form of duress. Lord, encourage them so they will not lose heart. Give them a glimpse of the reward they will reap if they do not grow weary. Lord, give us all the ability and perseverance to do good to others even when we don't feel like it. Show us how we can do good to one another, and minister through us for Your glory.
In Your name,
Amen.
Monday, March 23, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 23
For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother's womb. I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth; Your 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. Psalm 139:13-16
My Creator God,
Thank You for creating me. I praise You that You knew me before You even made me, and You knew the plan for my life even then. When I think about the intricacies of my body and my mind, I praise You for Your amazing creation and how You have made every cell of me to work together to function. Fearfully and wonderfully made, indeed!
I praise You and thank You for the gifts and skills You have given me. I pray that I would glorify You with these, and that others would see and glorify My Father in heaven.
Lord, I praise You for knowing me and loving me, for choosing me as one of Your own. I thank You for writing my days. Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.
In Your name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Near the Cross
When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.
Colossians 2:13-14
Dear God,
Thank You nailing my sin to the cross. Thank You for Your precious Son who took my sin upon Himself. Thank You that the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against me is canceled.
Lord, it is my desire to be near to the cross. I want to walk with its shadows over me so I will not forget the price that was paid for my salvation. I want to glory in what Jesus has done for me, and I want to live in such a way that others see Him living in me.
Draw me near to Your side, Lord, that I may share in Your sufferings and Your resurrection. I want to keep my eyes on You, hoping and trusting ever. I will make my boast in You alone.
In Your name,
Amen.
But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Galatians 6:14
Near the Cross
Words by Fanny Crosby
Jesus, keep me near the cross,
There a precious fountain
Free to all, a healing stream
Flows from Calvary’s mountain.
Refrain
In the cross, in the cross,
Be my glory ever;
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
Near the cross, a trembling soul,
Love and mercy found me;
There the bright and morning star
Sheds its beams around me.
Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day,
With its shadows o’er me.
Near the cross I’ll watch and wait
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river.
Colossians 2:13-14
Dear God,
Thank You nailing my sin to the cross. Thank You for Your precious Son who took my sin upon Himself. Thank You that the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against me is canceled.
Lord, it is my desire to be near to the cross. I want to walk with its shadows over me so I will not forget the price that was paid for my salvation. I want to glory in what Jesus has done for me, and I want to live in such a way that others see Him living in me.
Draw me near to Your side, Lord, that I may share in Your sufferings and Your resurrection. I want to keep my eyes on You, hoping and trusting ever. I will make my boast in You alone.
In Your name,
Amen.
But may it never be that I would boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Galatians 6:14
Near the Cross
Words by Fanny Crosby
Jesus, keep me near the cross,
There a precious fountain
Free to all, a healing stream
Flows from Calvary’s mountain.
Refrain
In the cross, in the cross,
Be my glory ever;
Till my raptured soul shall find
Rest beyond the river.
Near the cross, a trembling soul,
Love and mercy found me;
There the bright and morning star
Sheds its beams around me.
Near the cross! O Lamb of God,
Bring its scenes before me;
Help me walk from day to day,
With its shadows o’er me.
Near the cross I’ll watch and wait
Hoping, trusting ever,
Till I reach the golden strand,
Just beyond the river.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 22
But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened. Acts 16:25-26
Dear Almighty God, Ruler of Heaven and Earth,
I praise You that You can unfasten the chains that bind us. I praise You for Your mighty power over nature and all things created. I thank You for the way You moved in this story from the time of the early church, and its lessons for us today. I pray for all of those who today find themselves bound - in a prison not of walls necessarily but of sin. I pray for those who are imprisoned by their sin and ask that in Your mighty and holy power that You would release them from those chains. In Jesus' name I ask that You would bring glory to Yourself by freeing all of us who are in chains today. Send a mighty earthquake of Your power and grace, and shake us to our core, Lord. Unfasten the bonds that enslave us, and free us to serve You in Your Holy Spirit's power.
For Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Dear Almighty God, Ruler of Heaven and Earth,
I praise You that You can unfasten the chains that bind us. I praise You for Your mighty power over nature and all things created. I thank You for the way You moved in this story from the time of the early church, and its lessons for us today. I pray for all of those who today find themselves bound - in a prison not of walls necessarily but of sin. I pray for those who are imprisoned by their sin and ask that in Your mighty and holy power that You would release them from those chains. In Jesus' name I ask that You would bring glory to Yourself by freeing all of us who are in chains today. Send a mighty earthquake of Your power and grace, and shake us to our core, Lord. Unfasten the bonds that enslave us, and free us to serve You in Your Holy Spirit's power.
For Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Friday, March 20, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 21
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I do not want to lean on my own understanding. I have so little of it to lean on! I ask that You would keep me trusting in You and looking to You instead of looking to myself. I know that I do not have the answers nor do I know how to fix the various broken parts of my life. I come before You with praise and thanksgiving that YOU DO! I thank You that You know me, that You care for me, that You have the best in mind for me. I thank You that You have the plan for me. I thank You that you CAN be trusted.
My dear Father, I want to acknowledge You more. Make me aware of Your involvement in every aspect of my life and change my heart and mind to be more grateful to You. I am overwhelmed when I think of all the blessings of every day, and I thank You that You pour out Your grace over me. Your mercies are new every morning.
Lord, keep my paths straight as I desire to bring glory to You today. Lead me in Your way according to Your word. Write Your word on my heart that I may not sin against You. Guide me and direct me today, O God.
In Your precious name,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I do not want to lean on my own understanding. I have so little of it to lean on! I ask that You would keep me trusting in You and looking to You instead of looking to myself. I know that I do not have the answers nor do I know how to fix the various broken parts of my life. I come before You with praise and thanksgiving that YOU DO! I thank You that You know me, that You care for me, that You have the best in mind for me. I thank You that You have the plan for me. I thank You that you CAN be trusted.
My dear Father, I want to acknowledge You more. Make me aware of Your involvement in every aspect of my life and change my heart and mind to be more grateful to You. I am overwhelmed when I think of all the blessings of every day, and I thank You that You pour out Your grace over me. Your mercies are new every morning.
Lord, keep my paths straight as I desire to bring glory to You today. Lead me in Your way according to Your word. Write Your word on my heart that I may not sin against You. Guide me and direct me today, O God.
In Your precious name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 20
But now, O LORD, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8
Dear Father,
I thank You that You are the potter. You know the plans You have for me. I ask that You would work in my heart so that I would be malleable to Your purposes for my life. Mold me and make me after Your will. Give me a desire to be yielded and still and wait patiently for You to work in my life.
I praise You for Your sovereign control over this world, and over me. I thank You that I am the work of Your hand. I ask that You would change me to make me more like Jesus, and that others would see You in me.
For Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Dear Father,
I thank You that You are the potter. You know the plans You have for me. I ask that You would work in my heart so that I would be malleable to Your purposes for my life. Mold me and make me after Your will. Give me a desire to be yielded and still and wait patiently for You to work in my life.
I praise You for Your sovereign control over this world, and over me. I thank You that I am the work of Your hand. I ask that You would change me to make me more like Jesus, and that others would see You in me.
For Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 19
We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brethren, as is only fitting, because your faith is greatly enlarged, and the love of each one of you toward one another grows ever greater; therefore, we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure. II Thessalonians 1:3-4
Dear God,
Today I pray for our Christian brothers and sisters who live in persecution for their faith. I know I have no idea what they must go through every day just to be able to worship You, read Your word and fellowship with other believers. I come to You in thanksgiving that I am able to do all of that freely.
I pray Lord that You would give these children of Yours safety and protection as they seek to know You and to spread Your gospel. I pray that You would open the hearts of the people in leadership in these countries that they would no longer promote persecution, or even tolerate it.
Lord, I pray that You would give these believers boldness in their faith, that they might not waver in their dedication to You and Your word; that they would be strong in their stance for proclaiming Your name and bringing glory to You. I ask that You would give them strength to persevere and that You would increase their faith. Lord, make Your presence known to them, and bring them comfort and encouragement today.
I ask it in Your name,
Amen.
Dear God,
Today I pray for our Christian brothers and sisters who live in persecution for their faith. I know I have no idea what they must go through every day just to be able to worship You, read Your word and fellowship with other believers. I come to You in thanksgiving that I am able to do all of that freely.
I pray Lord that You would give these children of Yours safety and protection as they seek to know You and to spread Your gospel. I pray that You would open the hearts of the people in leadership in these countries that they would no longer promote persecution, or even tolerate it.
Lord, I pray that You would give these believers boldness in their faith, that they might not waver in their dedication to You and Your word; that they would be strong in their stance for proclaiming Your name and bringing glory to You. I ask that You would give them strength to persevere and that You would increase their faith. Lord, make Your presence known to them, and bring them comfort and encouragement today.
I ask it in Your name,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 18
The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. Deuteronomy 31:8
Dear God my Heavenly Father,
I praise You for the truth of this verse. I thank You that you will not fail me or forsake me. I thank You that Your perfect love casts out the fear in my life, and that I have no reason to be dismayed for You are my God.
I praise You that Your word is as true today as when You spoke it to Moses thousands of years ago. I thank You that You will never let me go. Lord, when I find myself in darkness, I ask that Your Holy Spirit will bring this truth to my mind. I know that You go before me, and that You see the plan for my life each and every day. I praise You for your omniscience and Your power.
In Your mighty name,
Amen.
Dear God my Heavenly Father,
I praise You for the truth of this verse. I thank You that you will not fail me or forsake me. I thank You that Your perfect love casts out the fear in my life, and that I have no reason to be dismayed for You are my God.
I praise You that Your word is as true today as when You spoke it to Moses thousands of years ago. I thank You that You will never let me go. Lord, when I find myself in darkness, I ask that Your Holy Spirit will bring this truth to my mind. I know that You go before me, and that You see the plan for my life each and every day. I praise You for your omniscience and Your power.
In Your mighty name,
Amen.
Monday, March 16, 2009
40 Days of prayer: Day 17
Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29
Dear Almighty God,
I find myself so often falling short of your standard. Especially when it comes to speech, and the words that proceed from my mouth, I know I am not doing/saying what I should according to Your word's guidelines. So often what I say is hurtful, critical, or just plain unnecessary. Lord, I long to glorify You with my words. Guide me in Your truth that I may use my speech to edify those around me. Guide me so that what I say gives grace to those who hear, and direct me that I may speak only to the need of the moment. I know that this means I won't even have to speak in many situations.
I realize, humbly, that my voice does not need to be heard for the sake of being heard, for the sake of getting my point across. Lord, change my heart. Make me less important so that You are of first importance, and so that those around me are second in importance. Show me, Lord, when I need to hold my tongue. Help me to show love to others around me by NOT speaking.
I know I can only accomplish this in Your power.
For that I thank you and ask it in Your name,
Amen.
Dear Almighty God,
I find myself so often falling short of your standard. Especially when it comes to speech, and the words that proceed from my mouth, I know I am not doing/saying what I should according to Your word's guidelines. So often what I say is hurtful, critical, or just plain unnecessary. Lord, I long to glorify You with my words. Guide me in Your truth that I may use my speech to edify those around me. Guide me so that what I say gives grace to those who hear, and direct me that I may speak only to the need of the moment. I know that this means I won't even have to speak in many situations.
I realize, humbly, that my voice does not need to be heard for the sake of being heard, for the sake of getting my point across. Lord, change my heart. Make me less important so that You are of first importance, and so that those around me are second in importance. Show me, Lord, when I need to hold my tongue. Help me to show love to others around me by NOT speaking.
I know I can only accomplish this in Your power.
For that I thank you and ask it in Your name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
There is a Fountain Filled with Blood
Knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold from your futile way of life inherited from your forefathers, but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ. I Peter 1:18-19
God had a plan to bring us to Him and bring an end to the animal sacrifices and the endless rules under the old covenant. He knew that man could never live up to those requirements.
Now, we are under a new covenant. But it was not without cost. Jesus had to die on the cross to pay for our sin. He paid the price with His blood - we were not redeemed with perishable things but with the precious blood of Christ. It's Christ's blood that enables us to lose all our guilty stains - we can go to this fountain and no matter how vile our sin be, His blood washes it all away. His blood will never lose its power - Jesus Christ paid the price once for all - for all sinners past, present and future.
For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; Romans 6:10
For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; I Peter 3:18
I couldn't agree more with the author of this hymn: redeeming love has been my theme and will be til I die. Without Jesus, I would be forever separated from God. His work on the cross reconciled me to God and saved me from His wrath.
Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
II Corinthians 5:18
Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. Romans 5:9
Let us never forget that our salvation was bought with a price - the precious Son of God laid down His life for us that we might never die.
Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! II Corinthians 9:15
There is a Fountain Filled with Blood
Words by William Cowper
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel’s veins;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
Lose all their guilty stains, lose all their guilty stains;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
The dying thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Washed all my sins away, washed all my sins away;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Dear dying Lamb, Thy precious blood shall never lose its power
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
Be saved, to sin no more, be saved, to sin no more;
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
E’er since, by faith, I saw the stream Thy flowing wounds supply,
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
And shall be till I die, and shall be till I die;
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
Then in a nobler, sweeter song, I’ll sing Thy power to save,
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lies silent in the grave, lies silent in the grave;
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lord, I believe Thou hast prepared, unworthy though I be,
For me a blood bought free reward, a golden harp for me!
'Tis strung and tuned for endless years, and formed by power divine,
To sound in God the Father’s ears no other name but Thine.
God had a plan to bring us to Him and bring an end to the animal sacrifices and the endless rules under the old covenant. He knew that man could never live up to those requirements.
Now, we are under a new covenant. But it was not without cost. Jesus had to die on the cross to pay for our sin. He paid the price with His blood - we were not redeemed with perishable things but with the precious blood of Christ. It's Christ's blood that enables us to lose all our guilty stains - we can go to this fountain and no matter how vile our sin be, His blood washes it all away. His blood will never lose its power - Jesus Christ paid the price once for all - for all sinners past, present and future.
For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; Romans 6:10
For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit; I Peter 3:18
I couldn't agree more with the author of this hymn: redeeming love has been my theme and will be til I die. Without Jesus, I would be forever separated from God. His work on the cross reconciled me to God and saved me from His wrath.
Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
II Corinthians 5:18
Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. Romans 5:9
Let us never forget that our salvation was bought with a price - the precious Son of God laid down His life for us that we might never die.
Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! II Corinthians 9:15
There is a Fountain Filled with Blood
Words by William Cowper
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emmanuel’s veins;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
Lose all their guilty stains, lose all their guilty stains;
And sinners plunged beneath that flood lose all their guilty stains.
The dying thief rejoiced to see that fountain in his day;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Washed all my sins away, washed all my sins away;
And there have I, though vile as he, washed all my sins away.
Dear dying Lamb, Thy precious blood shall never lose its power
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
Be saved, to sin no more, be saved, to sin no more;
Till all the ransomed church of God be saved, to sin no more.
E’er since, by faith, I saw the stream Thy flowing wounds supply,
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
And shall be till I die, and shall be till I die;
Redeeming love has been my theme, and shall be till I die.
Then in a nobler, sweeter song, I’ll sing Thy power to save,
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lies silent in the grave, lies silent in the grave;
When this poor lisping, stammering tongue lies silent in the grave.
Lord, I believe Thou hast prepared, unworthy though I be,
For me a blood bought free reward, a golden harp for me!
'Tis strung and tuned for endless years, and formed by power divine,
To sound in God the Father’s ears no other name but Thine.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 16
I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul will make its boast in the Lord, the humble will hear it and rejoice. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. Psalm 34:1-2
Dear God,
May I live out this verse in my life. I have so many things to praise You for; Your praise shall continually be in my mouth. I thank You for the changing of the seasons that we are witness to: the bright sunshine, the warmer temperatures, the fresh grass appearing and the buds on the trees are all testimonies of Your lovingkindness in creation. I praise You for Your watchful care over me and my life: that You, the King of the Universe would be interested in me, and love me, is almost beyond my comprehension and I praise You for Your grace and mercy to me.
I praise You Lord that You are God alone. That from before time began, You were on Your throne and You remain. I praise You that You are unchanging: the same yesterday, today, and yes, forever. I praise You that You hold the world in Your hand, and that nothing is out of Your control.
God, you are great and glorious. My soul makes it boast in You and You alone.
In Your name,
Amen.
Dear God,
May I live out this verse in my life. I have so many things to praise You for; Your praise shall continually be in my mouth. I thank You for the changing of the seasons that we are witness to: the bright sunshine, the warmer temperatures, the fresh grass appearing and the buds on the trees are all testimonies of Your lovingkindness in creation. I praise You for Your watchful care over me and my life: that You, the King of the Universe would be interested in me, and love me, is almost beyond my comprehension and I praise You for Your grace and mercy to me.
I praise You Lord that You are God alone. That from before time began, You were on Your throne and You remain. I praise You that You are unchanging: the same yesterday, today, and yes, forever. I praise You that You hold the world in Your hand, and that nothing is out of Your control.
God, you are great and glorious. My soul makes it boast in You and You alone.
In Your name,
Amen.
Friday, March 13, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 15
And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
Today I pray for the missionaries around the world who are working every day to spread Your gospel to the ends of the earth. Lord, I pray for Your protection over them. Many of them work in unstable political environments, in cities rife with crime, in jungles with surprises at every turn. Please protect them from danger. I also ask that You protect them from the lies of the enemy. Encourage them and draw them to Yourself that they might not believe Satan and his deception.
Lord, embolden them to speak Your truth with love in the situations they are in: small group meetings in homes, preaching in churches, preaching in the marketplace, in one-on-one conversations. I ask Lord that Your Holy Spirit will be preparing the hearts of those who will be ministered to, that their hearts will be open to hearing Your word and that they would believe and repent.
Dear Father, we know that Your kingdom is at hand. We long for Your returning, knowing that it won't be until all the nations have heard Your word. Lord, raise up more people to serve You throughout the world, that You might come again, and quickly.
In great anticipation I ask it,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
Today I pray for the missionaries around the world who are working every day to spread Your gospel to the ends of the earth. Lord, I pray for Your protection over them. Many of them work in unstable political environments, in cities rife with crime, in jungles with surprises at every turn. Please protect them from danger. I also ask that You protect them from the lies of the enemy. Encourage them and draw them to Yourself that they might not believe Satan and his deception.
Lord, embolden them to speak Your truth with love in the situations they are in: small group meetings in homes, preaching in churches, preaching in the marketplace, in one-on-one conversations. I ask Lord that Your Holy Spirit will be preparing the hearts of those who will be ministered to, that their hearts will be open to hearing Your word and that they would believe and repent.
Dear Father, we know that Your kingdom is at hand. We long for Your returning, knowing that it won't be until all the nations have heard Your word. Lord, raise up more people to serve You throughout the world, that You might come again, and quickly.
In great anticipation I ask it,
Amen.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 14
Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.
Colossians 3:23-24
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I thank You for the job you have given me, a job I enjoy and look forward to doing every day. Thank You for blessing me in this way. I pray today for all workers, doing the work that You have given them to do. I ask that we would all do our work as unto You - for You are the one whom we serve. Lord, may our diligence and attitudes toward our work draw others to You, as they see our willingness to serve You by serving others and doing our jobs to the best of our abilities. Thank You for the skills and gifts You have given each of us. Thank You for making us each unique and for placing us in positions where we can glorify You.
Lord, I pray for those who don't love their jobs. I pray that they will glorify You through their work, being encouraged that they are serving You. I also lift up those who are not working but who desire to be working and are looking for jobs. Lord, give them patience and perseverence in this tough time. I pray that You would guide them to the job You have selected for them, and draw them to Yourself that they may trust You more during this season of their life.
Lord, use us in Your service, in whatever job You have placed us.
For Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Colossians 3:23-24
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I thank You for the job you have given me, a job I enjoy and look forward to doing every day. Thank You for blessing me in this way. I pray today for all workers, doing the work that You have given them to do. I ask that we would all do our work as unto You - for You are the one whom we serve. Lord, may our diligence and attitudes toward our work draw others to You, as they see our willingness to serve You by serving others and doing our jobs to the best of our abilities. Thank You for the skills and gifts You have given each of us. Thank You for making us each unique and for placing us in positions where we can glorify You.
Lord, I pray for those who don't love their jobs. I pray that they will glorify You through their work, being encouraged that they are serving You. I also lift up those who are not working but who desire to be working and are looking for jobs. Lord, give them patience and perseverence in this tough time. I pray that You would guide them to the job You have selected for them, and draw them to Yourself that they may trust You more during this season of their life.
Lord, use us in Your service, in whatever job You have placed us.
For Your glory I ask it,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 13
But the LORD has been my stronghold, and my God the rock of my refuge. Psalm 94:22
From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint;Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:2
Believe God's word and power more than you believe your own feelings and experiences. Your Rock is Christ, and it is not the Rock which ebbs and flows, it is your sea. --Samuel Rutherford
Dear Lord,
It is so difficult to overcome our own feelings. I pray today that you would call us to look to You, our Rock, and to believe what you have said in Your word. Help us not be swayed by what we feel or experience; give us strength to believe, as an act of our will, that You will do what you say You will, and that Your power can overcome any situation. Lord, You promise us through your prophet Isaiah that Your word will not return to You empty; it will accomplish what You desire. When the sea of my life ebbs and flows, help me to cling to You, the Rock of my salvation, the Rock that is higher than I.
In Your mighty name I pray,
Amen.
From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint;Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. Psalm 61:2
Believe God's word and power more than you believe your own feelings and experiences. Your Rock is Christ, and it is not the Rock which ebbs and flows, it is your sea. --Samuel Rutherford
Dear Lord,
It is so difficult to overcome our own feelings. I pray today that you would call us to look to You, our Rock, and to believe what you have said in Your word. Help us not be swayed by what we feel or experience; give us strength to believe, as an act of our will, that You will do what you say You will, and that Your power can overcome any situation. Lord, You promise us through your prophet Isaiah that Your word will not return to You empty; it will accomplish what You desire. When the sea of my life ebbs and flows, help me to cling to You, the Rock of my salvation, the Rock that is higher than I.
In Your mighty name I pray,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 12
And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12
Dear God,
Pluralism has such a stronghold in our society today. Most people think there are many ways to the truth, several ways to God, multiple avenues to heaven. You tell us in Your word that it isn't so: Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, and no one comes to the Father but through Him. There is salvation in no one else.
Lord, I pray for those who do not yet believe that the way to You is through confession of their sin and acceptance of Jesus' work on the cross on their behalf. I ask Lord that You would open their hearts to the truth, that You would put believers in their path to show them the way, that You would point them to Your word. I ask Lord that Your Holy Spirit would quicken their hearts, that they would no longer live in sin. Lord, bring them to full repentance, and reconcile them to God. Work in them that they might live to righteousness and bring You glory.
In Your precious and powerful name I pray,
Amen.
Monday, March 9, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 11
Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I come before You today to pray for all believers living in this world. I pray that they would be emboldened to let their light shine before all those they encounter; at work, at school, in the marketplace, in the home. Lord, may those who don't yet believe see the good works that You have prepared for us to do, and that You enable us to do, and glorify You in heaven.
God, I want my life to bring You glory in everything I do. Guide my encounters with those who don't believe. Show me how to shine for You and prevent me from hiding Your light. May I glow with Your love and grace, and may others see You in me and be drawn to You.
In Your name,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
I come before You today to pray for all believers living in this world. I pray that they would be emboldened to let their light shine before all those they encounter; at work, at school, in the marketplace, in the home. Lord, may those who don't yet believe see the good works that You have prepared for us to do, and that You enable us to do, and glorify You in heaven.
God, I want my life to bring You glory in everything I do. Guide my encounters with those who don't believe. Show me how to shine for You and prevent me from hiding Your light. May I glow with Your love and grace, and may others see You in me and be drawn to You.
In Your name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Ah, Holy Jesus
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory forevermore. Amen. Galatians 1:3-5
This old German hymn tells a powerful story.
Ah, Holy Jesus
Words by Johann Heermann
Ah, holy Jesus, how hast Thou offended,
That we to judge Thee have in hate pretended?
By foes derided, by Thine own rejected,
O most afflicted!
Jesus, who was sinless, took our sin upon Him and was offered as a sacrifice on our behalf, a gift for which we can never repay Him. Jesus truly suffered through His time on earth. He came to save His people, but He was rejected by them, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah.
But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. Luke 17:25
He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Isaiah 53:3
He was the creator of the Universe, but His own did not receive Him.
There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. John 1:9-11
Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon Thee?
Alas, my treason, Jesus, hath undone Thee!
'Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied Thee;
I crucified Thee.
It was my sin and yours that sent Jesus to the cross. Our treason, living life our own way instead of according to God’s standard, caused Him to be undone. We often are so critical of Judas and his betrayal, but is our sinfulness so different?
But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. Isaiah 53:5
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit… I Peter 3:18
Lo, the Good Shepherd for the sheep is offered;
The slave hath sinned, and the Son hath suffered.
For our atonement, while we nothing heeded,
God interceded.
We could do nothing to earn our salvation. The price is too high. We could never work hard enough or be good enough. Someone had to be the sacrifice and pay through death. It should have been each of us. But God interceded to save us by sending His son to die in our place.
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; Ephesians 2:8
For me, kind Jesus, was Thy incarnation,
Thy mortal sorrow, and Thy life's oblation;
Thy death of anguish and Thy bitter passion,
For my salvation.
Jesus came to earth as a human, ministered, suffered and died a miserable death. He gave Himself as an offering (oblation) in humble obedience to His Father.
… just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. Ephesians 5:2
So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men. For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:18-19
Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:8
Therefore, kind Jesus, since I cannot pay Thee,
I do adore Thee, and will ever pray Thee,
Think on Thy pity and Thy love unswerving,
Not my deserving.
We can never repay Jesus for what He did for us on the cross that day. Our response must be to live for Him, bringing Him glory in everything we do, and praising Him for His great love for us.
Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7
This old German hymn tells a powerful story.
Ah, Holy Jesus
Words by Johann Heermann
Ah, holy Jesus, how hast Thou offended,
That we to judge Thee have in hate pretended?
By foes derided, by Thine own rejected,
O most afflicted!
Jesus, who was sinless, took our sin upon Him and was offered as a sacrifice on our behalf, a gift for which we can never repay Him. Jesus truly suffered through His time on earth. He came to save His people, but He was rejected by them, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah.
But first He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation. Luke 17:25
He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and like one from whom men hide their face, He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. Isaiah 53:3
He was the creator of the Universe, but His own did not receive Him.
There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. John 1:9-11
Who was the guilty? Who brought this upon Thee?
Alas, my treason, Jesus, hath undone Thee!
'Twas I, Lord Jesus, I it was denied Thee;
I crucified Thee.
It was my sin and yours that sent Jesus to the cross. Our treason, living life our own way instead of according to God’s standard, caused Him to be undone. We often are so critical of Judas and his betrayal, but is our sinfulness so different?
But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. Isaiah 53:5
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit… I Peter 3:18
Lo, the Good Shepherd for the sheep is offered;
The slave hath sinned, and the Son hath suffered.
For our atonement, while we nothing heeded,
God interceded.
We could do nothing to earn our salvation. The price is too high. We could never work hard enough or be good enough. Someone had to be the sacrifice and pay through death. It should have been each of us. But God interceded to save us by sending His son to die in our place.
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23
For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; Ephesians 2:8
For me, kind Jesus, was Thy incarnation,
Thy mortal sorrow, and Thy life's oblation;
Thy death of anguish and Thy bitter passion,
For my salvation.
Jesus came to earth as a human, ministered, suffered and died a miserable death. He gave Himself as an offering (oblation) in humble obedience to His Father.
… just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma. Ephesians 5:2
So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men. For as through the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:18-19
Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:8
Therefore, kind Jesus, since I cannot pay Thee,
I do adore Thee, and will ever pray Thee,
Think on Thy pity and Thy love unswerving,
Not my deserving.
We can never repay Jesus for what He did for us on the cross that day. Our response must be to live for Him, bringing Him glory in everything we do, and praising Him for His great love for us.
Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13
But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:4-7
Saturday, March 7, 2009
40 Days of Prayer: Day 10
Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips will praise You. Psalm 63:3
Dear Lord,
I woke up today singing "Your lovingkindness, lovingkindness is better than life." It is so true! I praise You for Your lovingkindness, for Your mercy and graciousness. Even when I am not lovable, You still love me, and pour our Your grace and mercy on me. Indeed, You have redeemed my life from the pit, and crowned me with lovingkindness and compassion.
Lord, I will never be able to love like You, but I pray that You will work in me, changing my heart to make me more loving to those around me. May they see You in me, and experience Your lovingkindness that is better than life.
In Your name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I woke up today singing "Your lovingkindness, lovingkindness is better than life." It is so true! I praise You for Your lovingkindness, for Your mercy and graciousness. Even when I am not lovable, You still love me, and pour our Your grace and mercy on me. Indeed, You have redeemed my life from the pit, and crowned me with lovingkindness and compassion.
Lord, I will never be able to love like You, but I pray that You will work in me, changing my heart to make me more loving to those around me. May they see You in me, and experience Your lovingkindness that is better than life.
In Your name,
Amen.
Friday, March 6, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 9
Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.
I Timothy 6:17-19
Dear Lord,
You have been so generous with me. You are the One who richly supplies with all things to enjoy. I pray Lord that I would not fix my hope on earthly riches. This last year has shown me in "real life" what Your word tells us: riches are uncertain. I must keep my eyes and my hope fixed on You, the giver of all gifts. I know Lord that Your promise is true: You will provide for all my needs.
I ask You to make me generous. I want to be rich in good works and ready to share. I want my life to reflect Your generosity to me. God, please change my heart where it needs changing in regards to this. If there is any area which I am not generous or willing to share, show me that so that I may correct it. All I have is Yours, Lord, and I desire to use it to bring You glory.
In Your name,
Amen.
I Timothy 6:17-19
Dear Lord,
You have been so generous with me. You are the One who richly supplies with all things to enjoy. I pray Lord that I would not fix my hope on earthly riches. This last year has shown me in "real life" what Your word tells us: riches are uncertain. I must keep my eyes and my hope fixed on You, the giver of all gifts. I know Lord that Your promise is true: You will provide for all my needs.
I ask You to make me generous. I want to be rich in good works and ready to share. I want my life to reflect Your generosity to me. God, please change my heart where it needs changing in regards to this. If there is any area which I am not generous or willing to share, show me that so that I may correct it. All I have is Yours, Lord, and I desire to use it to bring You glory.
In Your name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
40 days of prayer: Day 8
First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. I Timothy 2:1-2
Dear God,
You are the King and Ruler of this Universe. I come to You today to pray for those who are ruling our country at this time. Lord, they are in authority over us, and I pray for Your protection over them.
Most of all, Lord, I pray that You would turn their hearts toward You. Please guide them and direct them as they make decisions, and show them Your will. I ask that You would give them wisdom and discernment as they are making critical decisions every day, even every hour. I ask in Jesus' name that You would draw these leaders to Yourself, that they might know Your word and Your desire for this nation.
I also pray for believers in our country. Lord, speak to their hearts and encourage them to pray for our leaders. Give us boldness in our requests, because You have made the way for us to come boldly before the throne of grace, and for that I praise You.
I ask these things for Your glory,
Amen.
Dear God,
You are the King and Ruler of this Universe. I come to You today to pray for those who are ruling our country at this time. Lord, they are in authority over us, and I pray for Your protection over them.
Most of all, Lord, I pray that You would turn their hearts toward You. Please guide them and direct them as they make decisions, and show them Your will. I ask that You would give them wisdom and discernment as they are making critical decisions every day, even every hour. I ask in Jesus' name that You would draw these leaders to Yourself, that they might know Your word and Your desire for this nation.
I also pray for believers in our country. Lord, speak to their hearts and encourage them to pray for our leaders. Give us boldness in our requests, because You have made the way for us to come boldly before the throne of grace, and for that I praise You.
I ask these things for Your glory,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
40 Days of Prayer: Day 7
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," declares the LORD. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9
Dear Lord,
I am so thankful that my ways are not Your ways. For I only see the temporal, the small picture, the narrow view. You have the whole picture and You are directing it in my life to bring You glory. I admit, Lord, that I am easily frustrated because I wish I could see the picture as You see it. Give me grace to trust You more, to lean hard on Your word that reassures me that Your ways are higher than mine.
I thank You that You have given us Your word and that through it, I can begin to know Your thoughts and Your ways. I thank You that You can be trusted. I praise You for your sovereignty, Your omnipotence, and Your holiness. I humbly ask that You continue to work in my life, showing me Your ways and guiding me in Your path.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I am so thankful that my ways are not Your ways. For I only see the temporal, the small picture, the narrow view. You have the whole picture and You are directing it in my life to bring You glory. I admit, Lord, that I am easily frustrated because I wish I could see the picture as You see it. Give me grace to trust You more, to lean hard on Your word that reassures me that Your ways are higher than mine.
I thank You that You have given us Your word and that through it, I can begin to know Your thoughts and Your ways. I thank You that You can be trusted. I praise You for your sovereignty, Your omnipotence, and Your holiness. I humbly ask that You continue to work in my life, showing me Your ways and guiding me in Your path.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
40 Days of Prayer: Day 6
Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deut. 6:4-9
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
Today I pray for the believers raising children in this crooked and perverse generation. Lord, strengthen the parents and draw them to You and to Your word. I ask that You be their guide and that they would look to You during times of challenge. And Lord, I pray that they would be thankful for the awesome privelege You have given them, and that they would take the responsibility seriously.
Lord, I pray that these parents will be deep into Your word daily, so that they may guide and direct their children in Your ways. I pray that they would do as You command: speaking about You and Your word when they sit in the house, walk by the way, lie down and rise up. Lord, I pray that You would be a central figure in their homes and in their lives.
Lord, I ask that You would move in the hearts of the children. That at an early age, because of their parent's example and Your spirit, they would profess faith in You. Lord, raise up this next generation to love and serve and bring You glory.
In Jesus' name, and for His sake I ask it,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
Today I pray for the believers raising children in this crooked and perverse generation. Lord, strengthen the parents and draw them to You and to Your word. I ask that You be their guide and that they would look to You during times of challenge. And Lord, I pray that they would be thankful for the awesome privelege You have given them, and that they would take the responsibility seriously.
Lord, I pray that these parents will be deep into Your word daily, so that they may guide and direct their children in Your ways. I pray that they would do as You command: speaking about You and Your word when they sit in the house, walk by the way, lie down and rise up. Lord, I pray that You would be a central figure in their homes and in their lives.
Lord, I ask that You would move in the hearts of the children. That at an early age, because of their parent's example and Your spirit, they would profess faith in You. Lord, raise up this next generation to love and serve and bring You glory.
In Jesus' name, and for His sake I ask it,
Amen.
Monday, March 2, 2009
40 Days of Prayer: Day 5
Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:25-26
Dear God,
As these days go on, I find this verse to be so reassuring. You are the strength of my heart. There really is nothing on this earth worth desiring. Of course, I am grateful to You for what You have given me, but I long for my real home, for life eternal in Your presence. This world has nothing for me, and I thank You that You have prepared a place for me in heaven. Lord, I long for Your returning. Please keep my eyes focused on You while I wait for Your appearing.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear God,
As these days go on, I find this verse to be so reassuring. You are the strength of my heart. There really is nothing on this earth worth desiring. Of course, I am grateful to You for what You have given me, but I long for my real home, for life eternal in Your presence. This world has nothing for me, and I thank You that You have prepared a place for me in heaven. Lord, I long for Your returning. Please keep my eyes focused on You while I wait for Your appearing.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Thy Works, Not Mine, O Christ
He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:5-7
As we look forward to commemorating Jesus’ death and resurrection, I want to keep one key point in mind: God sent Jesus to do this work for ME. He accomplished this because I could never have saved myself. It was His work, His pain, His cross and His righteousness that allows me now to be saved from eternal separation from God.
He died for me while I was still a sinner.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
Jesus’ death on the cross paid the price that the law required, and brings peace to those of us who believe.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2
We have this peace because Jesus’ death on the cross saves us from the wrath of God.
Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. Romans 5:9
Jesus was the only one who could have accomplished this. He went to the cross a sinless man, but bore all the sins of earth: past, present and future.
He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. II Corinthians 5:21
He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. I Peter 2:24
Christ’s righteousness alone can cover us. We have no righteousness of our own; it all comes from Him. Righteousness comes through faith in Christ and our identification with Him. Like Paul, I press on, thanking Him for doing the work that He was sent to Earth to do, acknowledging that it was His work, NOT mine.
More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:8-12
Thy Works, Not Mine, O Christ
Words by Horatio Bonar
Thy works, not mine, O Christ, Speak gladness to this heart;
They tell me all is done; they bid my fear depart.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
They pains, not mine, O Christ, upon the shameful tree,
Have paid the law’s full price and purchased peace for me.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
Thy cross, not mine, O Christ, has borne the awful load
Of sins that none in heaven or earth could bear but God.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
Thy righteousness, O Christ, alone can cover me;
No righteousness avails save that which is of Thee.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
As we look forward to commemorating Jesus’ death and resurrection, I want to keep one key point in mind: God sent Jesus to do this work for ME. He accomplished this because I could never have saved myself. It was His work, His pain, His cross and His righteousness that allows me now to be saved from eternal separation from God.
He died for me while I was still a sinner.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
Jesus’ death on the cross paid the price that the law required, and brings peace to those of us who believe.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. Romans 5:1-2
We have this peace because Jesus’ death on the cross saves us from the wrath of God.
Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. Romans 5:9
Jesus was the only one who could have accomplished this. He went to the cross a sinless man, but bore all the sins of earth: past, present and future.
He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. II Corinthians 5:21
He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. I Peter 2:24
Christ’s righteousness alone can cover us. We have no righteousness of our own; it all comes from Him. Righteousness comes through faith in Christ and our identification with Him. Like Paul, I press on, thanking Him for doing the work that He was sent to Earth to do, acknowledging that it was His work, NOT mine.
More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ, and may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own derived from the Law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:8-12
Thy Works, Not Mine, O Christ
Words by Horatio Bonar
Thy works, not mine, O Christ, Speak gladness to this heart;
They tell me all is done; they bid my fear depart.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
They pains, not mine, O Christ, upon the shameful tree,
Have paid the law’s full price and purchased peace for me.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
Thy cross, not mine, O Christ, has borne the awful load
Of sins that none in heaven or earth could bear but God.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
Thy righteousness, O Christ, alone can cover me;
No righteousness avails save that which is of Thee.
To whom save thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)