"This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. This I command you, that you love one another." John 15:12-17
Dear Lord,
Thank You for leaving us with these instructions regarding our relationships with one another. Thank You for spending Your time here on earth teaching Your disciples how to live in Your love. Thank You for the book that we have now, Your word, which gives us these instructions.
Lord, it is with humble adoration that I thank You that You call me friend. Thank You that everything the Father told You, You made known to us. Thank You that You chose me and appointed me. I pray that I would abide in You that I may bear fruit and bring glory to Your name.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 36
"I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever; that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you."
John 14: 16-17
Dear Lord Jesus,
I thank You for these words that You left us with before going to the cross. I thank You that You promised not to leave us as orphans on this earth, but that You would come again. (John 14:18) I praise You for Your promise that until that time, another Helper is provided by the Father. Even though You couldn't stay on earth, You and the Father had a plan for how to not leave us alone: Your Holy Spirit dwells in each believer and I thank You for His presence. I ask that the Holy Spirit would guide and direct me today; that I would walk in Your way and follow Your will and that I would keep my eyes on You, the author and perfecter of my faith.
In Your Providing Name,
Amen.
John 14: 16-17
Dear Lord Jesus,
I thank You for these words that You left us with before going to the cross. I thank You that You promised not to leave us as orphans on this earth, but that You would come again. (John 14:18) I praise You for Your promise that until that time, another Helper is provided by the Father. Even though You couldn't stay on earth, You and the Father had a plan for how to not leave us alone: Your Holy Spirit dwells in each believer and I thank You for His presence. I ask that the Holy Spirit would guide and direct me today; that I would walk in Your way and follow Your will and that I would keep my eyes on You, the author and perfecter of my faith.
In Your Providing Name,
Amen.
Monday, March 29, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 35
Nevertheless many even of the rulers believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they were not confessing Him, for fear that they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God. And Jesus cried out and said, "He who believes in Me, does not believe in Me but in Him who sent Me. He who sees Me sees the One who sent Me. I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness. If anyone hears My sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day. For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak. I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me." John 12:42-50
Dear Lord,
As we contemplate the end of Your earthly life and ministry this week, I pray that we, as believers today, would not be like the rulers who believed in You but did not confess You as Lord and Savior. Lord Jesus, for myself, I pray that I would not love the approval of men more than Your approval. I ask that You would direct my heart and mind that I would seek Your approval and be bold in proclaiming Your name without fear or apprehension. I know that believing in You means that I believe in God, the One who sent You, and I desire to seek only His approval as I live in this fallen world.
In Your Name,
Amen
Dear Lord,
As we contemplate the end of Your earthly life and ministry this week, I pray that we, as believers today, would not be like the rulers who believed in You but did not confess You as Lord and Savior. Lord Jesus, for myself, I pray that I would not love the approval of men more than Your approval. I ask that You would direct my heart and mind that I would seek Your approval and be bold in proclaiming Your name without fear or apprehension. I know that believing in You means that I believe in God, the One who sent You, and I desire to seek only His approval as I live in this fallen world.
In Your Name,
Amen
Sunday, March 28, 2010
There Was a Time When Children Sang
On the next day the large crowd who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and began to shout, "Hosanna! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, even the King of Israel." John 12:12-13
Today is Palm Sunday, the day we commemorate Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem just five days before He went to the cross. He came to Jerusalem riding on a young donkey, just as had been prophesied many years before.
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem!Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, humble, and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Zechariah 9:9
In the days of Jesus, it was common custom in that land to cover, in some way, the path of someone thought worthy of the highest honor.
Most of the crowd spread their coats in the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them in the road. The crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David; BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; Hosanna in the highest!" Matthew 21:8-9
In his gospel account, John specifically mentions the spreading of palm branches to cover the road.
On the next day the large crowd who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and began to shout, "Hosanna! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, even the King of Israel." John 12:12-13
The palm branch was a symbol of triumph and of victory in Jewish tradition, as we see in Leviticus and Revelation.
Now on the first day you shall take for yourselves the foliage of beautiful trees, palm branches and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. Leviticus 23:40
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands. Revelation 7:9
How ironic that after all this royal treatment, just five days later, the people of Jerusalem would send Jesus to be crucifed. And when given the chance, they chose to release a known criminal instead of the King of the Jews as Pilate offered them.
"But you have a custom that I release someone for you at the Passover; do you wish then that I release for you the King of the Jews?" So they cried out again, saying, "Not this Man, but Barabbas." Now Barabbas was a robber. John 18:39-40
But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Palm Sunday was a beautiful day of rejoicing at the Savior's presence. As this hymnwriter says, all the hills of Judah rang with the children's exulting jubilee. Oh to have been there!
He still loves to hear our praise - children and adults alike. As we contemplate the last few days before Good Friday and then Easter, let us lift our voices to praise our glorious King, who paid the price for our sin and now is seated at God's right hand.
O come, let us sing for joy to the LORD,Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1
There Was a Time When Children Sang
Words by Thomas R. Taylor
There was a time when children sang
The Savior’s praise with sacred glee,
And all the hills of Judah rang
With their exulting jubilee.
O to have joined their rapturous songs,
And swelled their sweet hosannas high,
And blessed Him with our feeble tongues
As He, the Man of grief, went by!
But Christ is now a glorious King,
And angels in His presence bow;
The humble songs that we can sing,
O will He, can He, hear them now?
He can, He will, He loves to hear
The notes which loving children raise;
Jesus, we come with trembling fear:
O teach our hearts and tongues to praise!
We join the hosts around Thy throne,
Who once, like us, the desert trod;
And thus we make their song our own,
Hosanna to the Son of God!
Today is Palm Sunday, the day we commemorate Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem just five days before He went to the cross. He came to Jerusalem riding on a young donkey, just as had been prophesied many years before.
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem!Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, humble, and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a donkey. Zechariah 9:9
In the days of Jesus, it was common custom in that land to cover, in some way, the path of someone thought worthy of the highest honor.
Most of the crowd spread their coats in the road, and others were cutting branches from the trees and spreading them in the road. The crowds going ahead of Him, and those who followed, were shouting, "Hosanna to the Son of David; BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD; Hosanna in the highest!" Matthew 21:8-9
In his gospel account, John specifically mentions the spreading of palm branches to cover the road.
On the next day the large crowd who had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and began to shout, "Hosanna! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, even the King of Israel." John 12:12-13
The palm branch was a symbol of triumph and of victory in Jewish tradition, as we see in Leviticus and Revelation.
Now on the first day you shall take for yourselves the foliage of beautiful trees, palm branches and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God for seven days. Leviticus 23:40
After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, and palm branches were in their hands. Revelation 7:9
How ironic that after all this royal treatment, just five days later, the people of Jerusalem would send Jesus to be crucifed. And when given the chance, they chose to release a known criminal instead of the King of the Jews as Pilate offered them.
"But you have a custom that I release someone for you at the Passover; do you wish then that I release for you the King of the Jews?" So they cried out again, saying, "Not this Man, but Barabbas." Now Barabbas was a robber. John 18:39-40
But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Palm Sunday was a beautiful day of rejoicing at the Savior's presence. As this hymnwriter says, all the hills of Judah rang with the children's exulting jubilee. Oh to have been there!
He still loves to hear our praise - children and adults alike. As we contemplate the last few days before Good Friday and then Easter, let us lift our voices to praise our glorious King, who paid the price for our sin and now is seated at God's right hand.
O come, let us sing for joy to the LORD,Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation. Psalm 95:1
There Was a Time When Children Sang
Words by Thomas R. Taylor
There was a time when children sang
The Savior’s praise with sacred glee,
And all the hills of Judah rang
With their exulting jubilee.
O to have joined their rapturous songs,
And swelled their sweet hosannas high,
And blessed Him with our feeble tongues
As He, the Man of grief, went by!
But Christ is now a glorious King,
And angels in His presence bow;
The humble songs that we can sing,
O will He, can He, hear them now?
He can, He will, He loves to hear
The notes which loving children raise;
Jesus, we come with trembling fear:
O teach our hearts and tongues to praise!
We join the hosts around Thy throne,
Who once, like us, the desert trod;
And thus we make their song our own,
Hosanna to the Son of God!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 34
Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way. Psalm 139:23-24
Dear Lord,
I ask that you would search me and know me. Holy God, I do not want to have any hurtful way in me; I do not want to hurt You or others. Lead me in the everlasting way, Your way, and give me the grace to hide Your word in my heart that I would not sin against You. Lord, know my anxious thoughts. Deliver me from my anxiety and give me Your peace, the peace that passes understanding.
I ask it in Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I ask that you would search me and know me. Holy God, I do not want to have any hurtful way in me; I do not want to hurt You or others. Lead me in the everlasting way, Your way, and give me the grace to hide Your word in my heart that I would not sin against You. Lord, know my anxious thoughts. Deliver me from my anxiety and give me Your peace, the peace that passes understanding.
I ask it in Your Name,
Amen.
Friday, March 26, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 33
Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2
Dear Lord,
Today I thank You for all the saints who have gone before me - such a great cloud of witnesses! I thank You for Your word in which You have left us great stories of Your faithfulness to the previous generations. I thank You that their stories of faith and perseverance are an encouragement to me today as I seek to run the race set before me. I ask that You would lift my head; that You would fix my eyes on Jesus in whom my faith rests. I pray that I would be focused on the joy set before me, the eventual reunion with You in heaven, and that I would not be entangled by this world. I pray that You would give me strength and grace to endure what You have ordained for me here on this earth and that I would never lose sight of Your love that will bring me to You.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
Today I thank You for all the saints who have gone before me - such a great cloud of witnesses! I thank You for Your word in which You have left us great stories of Your faithfulness to the previous generations. I thank You that their stories of faith and perseverance are an encouragement to me today as I seek to run the race set before me. I ask that You would lift my head; that You would fix my eyes on Jesus in whom my faith rests. I pray that I would be focused on the joy set before me, the eventual reunion with You in heaven, and that I would not be entangled by this world. I pray that You would give me strength and grace to endure what You have ordained for me here on this earth and that I would never lose sight of Your love that will bring me to You.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 32
Thus says the LORD, "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things," declares the LORD. Jeremiah 9:23-24
Dear Lord,
Oh how I want to only boast in You! I know that everything I have - material things, gifts and skills, relationships, salvation - it all comes from You and is because of Your lovingkindness. Lord, let my boast be only in You so that I may give You all the glory for You are the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth. I will make my boast in You alone!
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
Oh how I want to only boast in You! I know that everything I have - material things, gifts and skills, relationships, salvation - it all comes from You and is because of Your lovingkindness. Lord, let my boast be only in You so that I may give You all the glory for You are the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth. I will make my boast in You alone!
In Your Name,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 31
Oh, that You would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains might quake at Your presence. As fire kindles the brushwood, as fire causes water to boil--to make Your name known to Your adversaries, that the nations may tremble at Your presence! Isaiah 64:1-2
Dear God,
My prayer is that You would rend the heavens and come down, that the nations would tremble at Your presence. We so look forward to the day of Jesus' return, and I ask Lord God, that it would be soon. I pray that the great commission would be accomplished on earth so that Jesus would return and You, Lord God, would establish a new heaven and a new earth. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
With anticipation I ask it,
Amen.
Dear God,
My prayer is that You would rend the heavens and come down, that the nations would tremble at Your presence. We so look forward to the day of Jesus' return, and I ask Lord God, that it would be soon. I pray that the great commission would be accomplished on earth so that Jesus would return and You, Lord God, would establish a new heaven and a new earth. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
With anticipation I ask it,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 30
But now, thus says the LORD, your Creator, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel, "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:1-3
Dear Lord, My Creator,
Thank You that You have called me by name. Thank You that You have redeemed my life and that I am Yours. Thank You for the amazing promises in Your word and in these verses: that You will be with me, even when I am going through the darkest and most troubling times. I thank You that the waves will not overtake me and the flame will not burn me. I thank You that You are my Savior.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord, My Creator,
Thank You that You have called me by name. Thank You that You have redeemed my life and that I am Yours. Thank You for the amazing promises in Your word and in these verses: that You will be with me, even when I am going through the darkest and most troubling times. I thank You that the waves will not overtake me and the flame will not burn me. I thank You that You are my Savior.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Monday, March 22, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 29
"For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth and making it bear and sprout, and furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater; so will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; it will not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it." Isaiah 55:10-11
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
How I cling to the truth of this verse! I thank You that Your Word will not return to you void, but will accomplish what You desire. I thank You that Your Word is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).
Lord, I pray that today You would call all believers to a diligent study of Your word. I ask that You would focus our hearts and minds that we may be diligent to present ourselves approved to God as workers who do not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (II Timothy 2:15). Thank You, Lord, that we have so many tools at our disposal in which to help us study. Thank You most of all that we have the Spirit who guides and directs us in our work to know and do Your Word.
Lord God, send Your Spirit to guide and direct us in our study of Your Word. Open our eyes to Your truth and Your instructin. Enable us to know Your word and do it, so that we may say along with the Psalmist, "Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You." (Psalm 119:11)
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
How I cling to the truth of this verse! I thank You that Your Word will not return to you void, but will accomplish what You desire. I thank You that Your Word is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12).
Lord, I pray that today You would call all believers to a diligent study of Your word. I ask that You would focus our hearts and minds that we may be diligent to present ourselves approved to God as workers who do not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth (II Timothy 2:15). Thank You, Lord, that we have so many tools at our disposal in which to help us study. Thank You most of all that we have the Spirit who guides and directs us in our work to know and do Your Word.
Lord God, send Your Spirit to guide and direct us in our study of Your Word. Open our eyes to Your truth and Your instructin. Enable us to know Your word and do it, so that we may say along with the Psalmist, "Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You." (Psalm 119:11)
In Your Name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Repent! 'Tis the Voice of Jesus
Before Jesus began His ministry on earth, John the Baptist was sent to make ready the way for the Lord. He urged sinners to repent of their sins for the kingdom of God was at hand!
Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, "THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS,'MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!'" Matthew 3:1-3
John the Baptist received a lot of attention for this; and many thought he was the Messiah. But he very plainly told the people that he was only "doing his job" - the real Messiah was soon to follow. John baptized with water, but the One coming would baptize with the Holy Spirit!
"As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." Matthew 3:11-12
After spending 40 days in the wilderness being tempted by the devil, Jesus began His earthly ministry. His very first sermon called sinners to repentance.
From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Matthew 4:17
Later, the disciples traveled throughout the land preaching repentance.
They went out and preached that men should repent. And they were casting out many demons and were anointing with oil many sick people and healing them. Mark 6:12-13
Clearly, repentance is important to God. We must acknowledge our sins before the Holy God and ask His forgiveness. Jesus tells us that the consequences of an unrepentant heart are disastrous:
"I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." Luke 13:5
After Jesus ascended to heaven, the disciples continued to preach His message of repentance. Peter reminds us that Christ's work is now finished, and our repentance will lead to times of refreshing in the presence of the Lord!
"But the things which God announced beforehand by the mouth of all the prophets, that His Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled. Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord; and that He may send Jesus, the Christ appointed for you,
whom heaven must receive until the period of restoration of all things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time." Acts 3:18-21
I know that I long for that kind of time spent with the Lord. As you ponder the last few weeks before Jesus walked to the cross, examine your heart and see if there is any hidden sin that you have not confessed. Repent of it, and praise Him that He made atonement for your sin at Calvary, and His blood, spilled for you, has made you clean.
Repent! 'Tis the Voice of Jesus
Words by Alfred Ackley
Repent! ’tis the voice of Jesus
Now sounding in your ear;
The message of God rings loud and clear,
Now seek Him, for He is near.
Refrain
Repent! and be ye saved,
Repent! and be ye saved,
Repent! and be ye saved,
Repent! and be ye saved.
Repent! while the Lord invites you;
Before the Savior fall;
The wages of sin is death to all
Who heed not the Gospel call.
Repent! while the Holy Spirit
Is striving with your soul;
The burden of sin on Jesus roll,
Surrender to His control.
Repent! for the days are flying;
The final hour draws nigh;
No pleasure have I, saith God on high,
In seeing the wicked die.
Repent! for He made atonement;
He took the sinner’s place;
O turn to the Lord, and seek His face,
And trust in His saving grace.
Now in those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." For this is the one referred to by Isaiah the prophet when he said, "THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS,'MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT!'" Matthew 3:1-3
John the Baptist received a lot of attention for this; and many thought he was the Messiah. But he very plainly told the people that he was only "doing his job" - the real Messiah was soon to follow. John baptized with water, but the One coming would baptize with the Holy Spirit!
"As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, and I am not fit to remove His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in His hand, and He will thoroughly clear His threshing floor; and He will gather His wheat into the barn, but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." Matthew 3:11-12
After spending 40 days in the wilderness being tempted by the devil, Jesus began His earthly ministry. His very first sermon called sinners to repentance.
From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." Matthew 4:17
Later, the disciples traveled throughout the land preaching repentance.
They went out and preached that men should repent. And they were casting out many demons and were anointing with oil many sick people and healing them. Mark 6:12-13
Clearly, repentance is important to God. We must acknowledge our sins before the Holy God and ask His forgiveness. Jesus tells us that the consequences of an unrepentant heart are disastrous:
"I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." Luke 13:5
After Jesus ascended to heaven, the disciples continued to preach His message of repentance. Peter reminds us that Christ's work is now finished, and our repentance will lead to times of refreshing in the presence of the Lord!
"But the things which God announced beforehand by the mouth of all the prophets, that His Christ would suffer, He has thus fulfilled. Therefore repent and return, so that your sins may be wiped away, in order that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord; and that He may send Jesus, the Christ appointed for you,
whom heaven must receive until the period of restoration of all things about which God spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from ancient time." Acts 3:18-21
I know that I long for that kind of time spent with the Lord. As you ponder the last few weeks before Jesus walked to the cross, examine your heart and see if there is any hidden sin that you have not confessed. Repent of it, and praise Him that He made atonement for your sin at Calvary, and His blood, spilled for you, has made you clean.
Repent! 'Tis the Voice of Jesus
Words by Alfred Ackley
Repent! ’tis the voice of Jesus
Now sounding in your ear;
The message of God rings loud and clear,
Now seek Him, for He is near.
Refrain
Repent! and be ye saved,
Repent! and be ye saved,
Repent! and be ye saved,
Repent! and be ye saved.
Repent! while the Lord invites you;
Before the Savior fall;
The wages of sin is death to all
Who heed not the Gospel call.
Repent! while the Holy Spirit
Is striving with your soul;
The burden of sin on Jesus roll,
Surrender to His control.
Repent! for the days are flying;
The final hour draws nigh;
No pleasure have I, saith God on high,
In seeing the wicked die.
Repent! for He made atonement;
He took the sinner’s place;
O turn to the Lord, and seek His face,
And trust in His saving grace.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 28
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23
Dear God,
I pray that the Holy Spirit would be so present in me that I would overflow with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I pray that it would be evident to others that I am controlled by the Spirit and that I do not give in to fleshly desires. Lord, keep my eyes on You and keep me in Your word that I might have discernment to hear the Spirit's voice and follow His instruction for my life; in my thoughts, behaviors, actions, deeds, speech and attitudes. Lord, may You receive all the glory for the work that You are doing in my life. I thank and praise You for it.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear God,
I pray that the Holy Spirit would be so present in me that I would overflow with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I pray that it would be evident to others that I am controlled by the Spirit and that I do not give in to fleshly desires. Lord, keep my eyes on You and keep me in Your word that I might have discernment to hear the Spirit's voice and follow His instruction for my life; in my thoughts, behaviors, actions, deeds, speech and attitudes. Lord, may You receive all the glory for the work that You are doing in my life. I thank and praise You for it.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Friday, March 19, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 27
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. Romans 13:1-5
Dear God, our ultimate authority,
I pray that we would be obedient to Your instruction to be in subjection to our governing authorities, even when we are in disagreement with their decisions. Lord, I pray for the people who are leading this nation. I pray that You would turn their hearts to You. I ask that they would seek Your face and Your will as they deliberate over the future of this country and their plans for it. I ask that You would give them wisdom, compassion, discernment, and a desire to do Your will.
Lord, I am secure in the fact that nothing is outside of Your control. I thank You that I can live without fear of tomorrow and the decisions that will have an impact on my future, because it is You who holds my future in the palm of Your hand. Thank You for your lovingkindness to me.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear God, our ultimate authority,
I pray that we would be obedient to Your instruction to be in subjection to our governing authorities, even when we are in disagreement with their decisions. Lord, I pray for the people who are leading this nation. I pray that You would turn their hearts to You. I ask that they would seek Your face and Your will as they deliberate over the future of this country and their plans for it. I ask that You would give them wisdom, compassion, discernment, and a desire to do Your will.
Lord, I am secure in the fact that nothing is outside of Your control. I thank You that I can live without fear of tomorrow and the decisions that will have an impact on my future, because it is You who holds my future in the palm of Your hand. Thank You for your lovingkindness to me.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 26
Give ear and hear my voice, listen and hear my words. Isaiah 28:23
Oh Dear Lord,
How I want to hear Your voice! I pray that You would give me discernment to hear Your voice among all the noise of the world and the well-meaning advice from others. I pray that You would give me wisdom to listen to You and hear Your words. I want to follow You, to do as You say, to be in the center of Your will. I ask that You would give me clarity of mind that I would be able to discern Your voice. Keep me in Your word that it would speak to me, and give me ears to hear Your voice.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Oh Dear Lord,
How I want to hear Your voice! I pray that You would give me discernment to hear Your voice among all the noise of the world and the well-meaning advice from others. I pray that You would give me wisdom to listen to You and hear Your words. I want to follow You, to do as You say, to be in the center of Your will. I ask that You would give me clarity of mind that I would be able to discern Your voice. Keep me in Your word that it would speak to me, and give me ears to hear Your voice.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 25
Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. Ephesians 5:22-27
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
Today I lift up to You all the husbands and wives. I pray that You would call them to live according to Your direction that our marriages would glorify You and point unbelievers to You.
I ask that You would work in the heart of all wives, that You would show them what it means to respect their husbands, to be subject to their husbands as the church is subject to Christ. I ask that You would likewise work in the heart of all husbands to show them what it means to love their wives as You love the church.
I pray that You would take away all our selfishness and pride and give us love for one another that You would be honored through our relationships.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Heavenly Father,
Today I lift up to You all the husbands and wives. I pray that You would call them to live according to Your direction that our marriages would glorify You and point unbelievers to You.
I ask that You would work in the heart of all wives, that You would show them what it means to respect their husbands, to be subject to their husbands as the church is subject to Christ. I ask that You would likewise work in the heart of all husbands to show them what it means to love their wives as You love the church.
I pray that You would take away all our selfishness and pride and give us love for one another that You would be honored through our relationships.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 24
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
Dear Heavenly Father,
How I thank and praise You for this promise! Nothing will be able to separate me from Your love.
I thank You for Your love through Christ Jesus who humbly obeyed You to the cross. I thank You for Your love that sent Him to die for my sins, and then raised Him up again. I thank You for Your love that called Jesus home to Your side where He sits at Your right hand.
How I praise You for Your love for me! Lord, I pray that all those around me would be able to feel Your love as it flows through me and that I would bask in the security of Your love all the days of my life.
In Your Wonderful Name,
Amen.
Dear Heavenly Father,
How I thank and praise You for this promise! Nothing will be able to separate me from Your love.
I thank You for Your love through Christ Jesus who humbly obeyed You to the cross. I thank You for Your love that sent Him to die for my sins, and then raised Him up again. I thank You for Your love that called Jesus home to Your side where He sits at Your right hand.
How I praise You for Your love for me! Lord, I pray that all those around me would be able to feel Your love as it flows through me and that I would bask in the security of Your love all the days of my life.
In Your Wonderful Name,
Amen.
Monday, March 15, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 23
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired; His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power.
Isaiah 40:28-29
Dear Lord, the Creator of the Earth,
I give You praise and glory that You do not become weary or tired. I am so comforted that I can rest in You when I am weary and I thank You that You will give me strength.
Even though I don't always understand Your plan or ways, I thank You that Your understanding is inscrutable - it is mysterious and imprenetrable. You are God in Heaven and I am here on earth. I pray that You would give me strength to trust You more with each passing day and to lean on You that Your power would be manifest in me.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Isaiah 40:28-29
Dear Lord, the Creator of the Earth,
I give You praise and glory that You do not become weary or tired. I am so comforted that I can rest in You when I am weary and I thank You that You will give me strength.
Even though I don't always understand Your plan or ways, I thank You that Your understanding is inscrutable - it is mysterious and imprenetrable. You are God in Heaven and I am here on earth. I pray that You would give me strength to trust You more with each passing day and to lean on You that Your power would be manifest in me.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Canceled!
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
When I read that verse from Colossians, I just want to cry out, "Thank You Jesus!" He canceled the debt against me! He has taken it out of the way. He nailed my debt to the cross, and paid the penalty when He died for my sins.
My debt was like the debt of the slave in the story Jesus told to illustrate forgiveness.
Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves."When he had begun to settle them, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. But since he did not have the means to repay, his lord commanded him to be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment to be made. Matthew 18:21-25
This slave could have never repaid his debt to the master. Ten thousand talents was significantly more money than anyone would have made in an entire lifetime - Jesus used this huge sum of money to illustrate just how great His forgiveness of us is! We could never repay what we owe - not even in our whole lifetime.
"So the slave fell to the ground and prostrated himself before him, saying, 'Have patience with me and I will repay you everything.' And the lord of that slave felt compassion and released him and forgave him the debt." Matthew 18:26-27
He forgave him the debt! He said he didn't have to pay! The slave didn't have a chance of ever repaying it, but no he doesn't even have to worry about it - his debt is forgiven. But wait, look at what the slave does next:
"But that slave went out and found one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii; and he seized him and began to choke him, saying, 'Pay back what you owe.' So his fellow slave fell to the ground and began to plead with him, saying, 'Have patience with me and I will repay you.' But he was unwilling and went and threw him in prison until he should pay back what was owed." Matthew 18:28-30
The slave had just been forgiven a debt he could never repay (what a tremendous gift!) and then he goes and find a colleague who owes him a tiny fraction of that amount and demands payment - to the point of throwing the fellow slave in prison since he couldn't repay his debt!
"So when his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved and came and reported to their lord all that had happened. Then summoning him, his lord said to him, 'You wicked slave, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?' Matthew 18:31-33
God has given us a wonderful gift: forgiveness through His Son, Jesus Christ. Our debt was paid and canceled by Jesus on the cross. We have only to accept this free gift and follow Him. And, just as He has forgiven us, we are called to forgive others.
"And his lord, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed him. My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart." Matthew 18:34-35
The slave who had his debt canceled but did not forgive his fellow slave was handed over to pay his debt with his life. Jesus calls us to forgive others just as He has forgiven us.
He has canceled our debt! Let us live in the celebration of that freedom, and extend His forgiveness freely to others.
Canceled!
Words by John P. Scholfield
When my debt to God was resting on my soul,
And I trod the downward road,
I looked up to Him who died to make men whole,
And He canceled the debt I owed.
Refrain
Jesus canceled the debt I owed,
Jesus lifted the mighty load;
Grace divine touched my soul and made me whole,
When He canceled the debt I owed.
My account was great, I knew I could not pay,
I bowed ’neath the heavy load;
Jesus paid my debt, I love Him more each day,
For He canceled the debt I owed.
Gratitude to Him has turned my heart to praise,
I’m grateful for gifts bestowed;
And my song will flow thro’ all the coming days,
For He canceled the debt I owed.
When I stand alone and face the setting sun,
And darkness obscures the road,
He will guide me home and say to me, “Well done,”
For He cancelled the debt I owed.
When I read that verse from Colossians, I just want to cry out, "Thank You Jesus!" He canceled the debt against me! He has taken it out of the way. He nailed my debt to the cross, and paid the penalty when He died for my sins.
My debt was like the debt of the slave in the story Jesus told to illustrate forgiveness.
Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. For this reason the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his slaves."When he had begun to settle them, one who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. But since he did not have the means to repay, his lord commanded him to be sold, along with his wife and children and all that he had, and repayment to be made. Matthew 18:21-25
This slave could have never repaid his debt to the master. Ten thousand talents was significantly more money than anyone would have made in an entire lifetime - Jesus used this huge sum of money to illustrate just how great His forgiveness of us is! We could never repay what we owe - not even in our whole lifetime.
"So the slave fell to the ground and prostrated himself before him, saying, 'Have patience with me and I will repay you everything.' And the lord of that slave felt compassion and released him and forgave him the debt." Matthew 18:26-27
He forgave him the debt! He said he didn't have to pay! The slave didn't have a chance of ever repaying it, but no he doesn't even have to worry about it - his debt is forgiven. But wait, look at what the slave does next:
"But that slave went out and found one of his fellow slaves who owed him a hundred denarii; and he seized him and began to choke him, saying, 'Pay back what you owe.' So his fellow slave fell to the ground and began to plead with him, saying, 'Have patience with me and I will repay you.' But he was unwilling and went and threw him in prison until he should pay back what was owed." Matthew 18:28-30
The slave had just been forgiven a debt he could never repay (what a tremendous gift!) and then he goes and find a colleague who owes him a tiny fraction of that amount and demands payment - to the point of throwing the fellow slave in prison since he couldn't repay his debt!
"So when his fellow slaves saw what had happened, they were deeply grieved and came and reported to their lord all that had happened. Then summoning him, his lord said to him, 'You wicked slave, I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, in the same way that I had mercy on you?' Matthew 18:31-33
God has given us a wonderful gift: forgiveness through His Son, Jesus Christ. Our debt was paid and canceled by Jesus on the cross. We have only to accept this free gift and follow Him. And, just as He has forgiven us, we are called to forgive others.
"And his lord, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed him. My heavenly Father will also do the same to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart." Matthew 18:34-35
The slave who had his debt canceled but did not forgive his fellow slave was handed over to pay his debt with his life. Jesus calls us to forgive others just as He has forgiven us.
He has canceled our debt! Let us live in the celebration of that freedom, and extend His forgiveness freely to others.
Canceled!
Words by John P. Scholfield
When my debt to God was resting on my soul,
And I trod the downward road,
I looked up to Him who died to make men whole,
And He canceled the debt I owed.
Refrain
Jesus canceled the debt I owed,
Jesus lifted the mighty load;
Grace divine touched my soul and made me whole,
When He canceled the debt I owed.
My account was great, I knew I could not pay,
I bowed ’neath the heavy load;
Jesus paid my debt, I love Him more each day,
For He canceled the debt I owed.
Gratitude to Him has turned my heart to praise,
I’m grateful for gifts bestowed;
And my song will flow thro’ all the coming days,
For He canceled the debt I owed.
When I stand alone and face the setting sun,
And darkness obscures the road,
He will guide me home and say to me, “Well done,”
For He cancelled the debt I owed.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 22
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY." I Peter 1:13-16
Dear Holy God,
I pray that You would give me the strength and grace to fix my hope completely on You. I pray that my mind would be prepared for action and that I would be sober in spirit. Lord, I do not want to be conformed to the lusts of this world. I want to be holy! God, make me more like Jesus. Cleanse me and change me to make me holy in all my behavior.
I praise You for Your holiness. I confess that I am a wretched sinner and I cannot possibly live without Your grace and forgiveness. You are worthy to be praised for You are holy. Lord, make me more like You.
Humbly I ask it,
Amen.
Dear Holy God,
I pray that You would give me the strength and grace to fix my hope completely on You. I pray that my mind would be prepared for action and that I would be sober in spirit. Lord, I do not want to be conformed to the lusts of this world. I want to be holy! God, make me more like Jesus. Cleanse me and change me to make me holy in all my behavior.
I praise You for Your holiness. I confess that I am a wretched sinner and I cannot possibly live without Your grace and forgiveness. You are worthy to be praised for You are holy. Lord, make me more like You.
Humbly I ask it,
Amen.
Friday, March 12, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 21
The king's heart is like channels of water in the hand of the LORD; He turns it wherever He wishes. Proverbs 21:1
Dear Lord and King of the Universe,
I pray today for our President. I pray that You would turn his heart toward You. I ask that You would put him in contact with people who profess Your name that He would come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ. I thank You that his heart is like channels of water in Your hand, and that You can turn it wherever You wish. Lord, draw him to You that he might lead our country in following You, the One True God.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord and King of the Universe,
I pray today for our President. I pray that You would turn his heart toward You. I ask that You would put him in contact with people who profess Your name that He would come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ. I thank You that his heart is like channels of water in Your hand, and that You can turn it wherever You wish. Lord, draw him to You that he might lead our country in following You, the One True God.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 20
The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever. Isaiah 40:8
Dear God,
This verse brings so much comfort to my soul. I praise You that Your word stands forever. I praise and thank You that it never changes; that Your truth abides in all time and space. I praise You that it is available to us in so many varieties and means: different versions, study guides, through the internet, in books, on CDs.
Lord, may we never have any excuse for not knowing Your word. Give us the desire to study it, read it, memorize it and know it.
In Your Gracious Name,
Amen.
Dear God,
This verse brings so much comfort to my soul. I praise You that Your word stands forever. I praise and thank You that it never changes; that Your truth abides in all time and space. I praise You that it is available to us in so many varieties and means: different versions, study guides, through the internet, in books, on CDs.
Lord, may we never have any excuse for not knowing Your word. Give us the desire to study it, read it, memorize it and know it.
In Your Gracious Name,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 19
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER (which is the first commandment with a promise), SO THAT IT MAY BE WELL WITH YOU, AND THAT YOU MAY LIVE LONG ON THE EARTH. Ephesians 6:1-3
Dear God,
Today I pray for all children. I pray that You would give them a heart of obedience toward their parents. I pray that You would impress upon them that learning to obey is important; for when we obey our earthly parents, we learn to obey You, our Heavenly Father.
I pray not only for young children, but for all children. I pray that You would show us how to show and bring honor to our fathers and mothers. Thank You for giving me a wonderful earthly mother and father who live according to Your word and show Your love to others. Help me to be even more honorable in my actions toward them. I thank You for the promise in this commandment.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear God,
Today I pray for all children. I pray that You would give them a heart of obedience toward their parents. I pray that You would impress upon them that learning to obey is important; for when we obey our earthly parents, we learn to obey You, our Heavenly Father.
I pray not only for young children, but for all children. I pray that You would show us how to show and bring honor to our fathers and mothers. Thank You for giving me a wonderful earthly mother and father who live according to Your word and show Your love to others. Help me to be even more honorable in my actions toward them. I thank You for the promise in this commandment.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 18
Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. Colossians 4:5-6
Dear Lord,
I pray that You will give me wisdom in my conduct. Help me make the most of every opportunity with everyone I come into contact with; at home, at work, running errands, at church. Give me the wisdom to make the most of every opportunity, showing that I am Your child; Your representative on Earth.
Lord, give me grace in my speech. May my speech overflow with kindness, generosity, thoughtfulness and gentleness. Give me the wisdom so that I will know how to respond to each person, just as You would. You are gracious, God. Thank You for Your kindness toward me, and help me to show it to others in Your name.
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I pray that You will give me wisdom in my conduct. Help me make the most of every opportunity with everyone I come into contact with; at home, at work, running errands, at church. Give me the wisdom to make the most of every opportunity, showing that I am Your child; Your representative on Earth.
Lord, give me grace in my speech. May my speech overflow with kindness, generosity, thoughtfulness and gentleness. Give me the wisdom so that I will know how to respond to each person, just as You would. You are gracious, God. Thank You for Your kindness toward me, and help me to show it to others in Your name.
Amen.
Monday, March 8, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 17
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH." Romans 1:16-17
Dear Lord,
Today I pray that You would embolden all believers, that we would not be ashamed of the gospel. That we would preach Your good news to all who need to hear. That our preaching would consist of the words of our mouth, our actions, behaviors and attitudes towards others. Lord, when we are faced with opposition or beliefs that are contrary to Your word, give us strength to stand firm on Your gospel and not be swayed by the world. Give us humility to speak the truth in love and lead a dying people to Your side.
I thank You that You have revealed Yourself to us in Your word. Thank You for Your gospel message, and speak it through me today.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
Today I pray that You would embolden all believers, that we would not be ashamed of the gospel. That we would preach Your good news to all who need to hear. That our preaching would consist of the words of our mouth, our actions, behaviors and attitudes towards others. Lord, when we are faced with opposition or beliefs that are contrary to Your word, give us strength to stand firm on Your gospel and not be swayed by the world. Give us humility to speak the truth in love and lead a dying people to Your side.
I thank You that You have revealed Yourself to us in Your word. Thank You for Your gospel message, and speak it through me today.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
From the Cross
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
Sinners are welcome at the cross. There is room for you there! The cross welcomes sinners to its side, to take in the healing provided by Jesus' death on our behalf.
Indeed, love's redeeming work was done on the cross. Jesus' last words were, "It is finished." (John 19:30) The work that He had come to Earth to do had been accomplished. He paid the price for our sin by giving up His life on the cross.
For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. I Corinthians 6:20
Because of His death on the cross, we can lay our burdens down at His feet, at His pierced body.
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. I Peter 5:6-7
"For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matthew 11:30
Those who have accepted the free gift of life in Jesus Christ are now free from the bondage of sin. Sin no longer separates them from God, for Jesus paid for that sin allowing the believer to boldly approach God on His holy throne. In the days when Jesus lived on Earth, a fabric veil separated the worshiper from the holy of holies. Only the high priest was able to approach the mercy seat. But when Jesus died, the veil was torn in two!
And the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. Mark 15:38
We no longer need an intercessor!
Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16
And the best is yet to come! As believers, we now look forward to Christ's second coming, when He comes back to Earth to welcome us to our eternal home in heaven.
For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. I Thessalonians 5:2
He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming quickly." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. Revelation 22:20
Thank you Lord, that You welcome us sinners to Your side.
From the Cross
Words by Thomas Haweis
From the cross uplifted high,
Where the Savior deigns to die,
What melodious sounds we hear,
Bursting on the ravished ear!
“Love’s redeeming work is done—
Come and welcome! sinner, come!
“Sprinkled now with blood the throne;
Why beneath thy burdens groan?
On My pierced body laid,
Justice owns the ransom paid:
Bow the knee, and kiss the Son,
Come and welcome, sinner, come.
“Spread for thee, the festal board
See with richest bounty stored;
To thy Father’s bosom pressed,
Thou shalt be a child confessed,
Never from His house to roam;
Come and welcome! sinner, come!
“Soon the days of life shall end—
Lo, I come—your Savior, Friend!
Safe your spirit to convey
To the realms of endless day,
Up to My eternal home—
Come and welcome! sinner, come!”
Sinners are welcome at the cross. There is room for you there! The cross welcomes sinners to its side, to take in the healing provided by Jesus' death on our behalf.
Indeed, love's redeeming work was done on the cross. Jesus' last words were, "It is finished." (John 19:30) The work that He had come to Earth to do had been accomplished. He paid the price for our sin by giving up His life on the cross.
For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body. I Corinthians 6:20
Because of His death on the cross, we can lay our burdens down at His feet, at His pierced body.
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. I Peter 5:6-7
"For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." Matthew 11:30
Those who have accepted the free gift of life in Jesus Christ are now free from the bondage of sin. Sin no longer separates them from God, for Jesus paid for that sin allowing the believer to boldly approach God on His holy throne. In the days when Jesus lived on Earth, a fabric veil separated the worshiper from the holy of holies. Only the high priest was able to approach the mercy seat. But when Jesus died, the veil was torn in two!
And the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. Mark 15:38
We no longer need an intercessor!
Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16
And the best is yet to come! As believers, we now look forward to Christ's second coming, when He comes back to Earth to welcome us to our eternal home in heaven.
For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. I Thessalonians 5:2
He who testifies to these things says, "Yes, I am coming quickly." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. Revelation 22:20
Thank you Lord, that You welcome us sinners to Your side.
From the Cross
Words by Thomas Haweis
From the cross uplifted high,
Where the Savior deigns to die,
What melodious sounds we hear,
Bursting on the ravished ear!
“Love’s redeeming work is done—
Come and welcome! sinner, come!
“Sprinkled now with blood the throne;
Why beneath thy burdens groan?
On My pierced body laid,
Justice owns the ransom paid:
Bow the knee, and kiss the Son,
Come and welcome, sinner, come.
“Spread for thee, the festal board
See with richest bounty stored;
To thy Father’s bosom pressed,
Thou shalt be a child confessed,
Never from His house to roam;
Come and welcome! sinner, come!
“Soon the days of life shall end—
Lo, I come—your Savior, Friend!
Safe your spirit to convey
To the realms of endless day,
Up to My eternal home—
Come and welcome! sinner, come!”
Saturday, March 6, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 16
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,
Thank You that You are with us always. I pray that You would guide and direct me as I live each day, that Your light would shine through me that others would see that I am Your disciple. I pray that through my speech, actions and behaviors that I would point others to You, preaching Your gospel, that they would come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ and be Your disciples.
I pray too today for those who have obediently gone to all the nations of the world to make disciples and baptize them in Your name. I pray that You would give them safety, boldness, and perseverance as they spread the majesty of Your name throughout the nations. Especially for those who are in undesirable conditions ministering to others, Lord I ask that You would send Your Holy Spirit to comfort them and encourage them. Enable them to feel Your presence, Lord. May the truth and light of Your gospel radiate from them that many people may come to You.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
Thank You that You are with us always. I pray that You would guide and direct me as I live each day, that Your light would shine through me that others would see that I am Your disciple. I pray that through my speech, actions and behaviors that I would point others to You, preaching Your gospel, that they would come to a saving faith in Jesus Christ and be Your disciples.
I pray too today for those who have obediently gone to all the nations of the world to make disciples and baptize them in Your name. I pray that You would give them safety, boldness, and perseverance as they spread the majesty of Your name throughout the nations. Especially for those who are in undesirable conditions ministering to others, Lord I ask that You would send Your Holy Spirit to comfort them and encourage them. Enable them to feel Your presence, Lord. May the truth and light of Your gospel radiate from them that many people may come to You.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Friday, March 5, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 15
In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:2-3
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for this promise from Jesus that He has gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us. Thank You that for followers of Christ, our eternity is secure with You because of Jesus' atoning work on the cross. I give You praise that Jesus will come again to receive us to Himself and I look forward to that day, with much anticipation.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for this promise from Jesus that He has gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us. Thank You that for followers of Christ, our eternity is secure with You because of Jesus' atoning work on the cross. I give You praise that Jesus will come again to receive us to Himself and I look forward to that day, with much anticipation.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 14
'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.' Jeremiah 29:11-13
Dear Lord,
I am so thankful that You have the plan for my life. Thank You that Your plan gives me a future and a hope. I so desire to seek after You with all my heart, and I thank You for Your promise that I will find You. Help me to keep my eyes on You on not on the distractions and disappointments of this world.
Thank You that You listen when I pray.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I am so thankful that You have the plan for my life. Thank You that Your plan gives me a future and a hope. I so desire to seek after You with all my heart, and I thank You for Your promise that I will find You. Help me to keep my eyes on You on not on the distractions and disappointments of this world.
Thank You that You listen when I pray.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 13
Alas, sinful nation, people weighed down with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, sons who act corruptly! They have abandoned the LORD, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they have turned away from Him. Isaiah 1:4
Dear Lord and Father of Mankind,
Today I pray for this sinful nation. Lord, my heart is heavy for the people of this country who are weighed down by their sin. They have abandoned You, they have turned away from You. I pray that You will bring a revival to this Land; that You would turn the hearts of the people to You that they would confess their sin, follow Jesus as their Savior and be reconciled to God.
Lord, You alone can change hearts. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would be at work in the people of this nation. Show them their sin, Lord, and bring them to repentance. Use those of us who profess Your name to boldly go forth in sharing Your gospel so that hearts of unbelievers would be quickened to believe.
In Your Holy Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord and Father of Mankind,
Today I pray for this sinful nation. Lord, my heart is heavy for the people of this country who are weighed down by their sin. They have abandoned You, they have turned away from You. I pray that You will bring a revival to this Land; that You would turn the hearts of the people to You that they would confess their sin, follow Jesus as their Savior and be reconciled to God.
Lord, You alone can change hearts. I pray that Your Holy Spirit would be at work in the people of this nation. Show them their sin, Lord, and bring them to repentance. Use those of us who profess Your name to boldly go forth in sharing Your gospel so that hearts of unbelievers would be quickened to believe.
In Your Holy Name,
Amen.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 12
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 thank You that You never sleep; You are never not in control of this earth. That fact is so reassuring to me, especially as I get on a plane this morning and again this evening. I praise You that You can hold in Your hand those planes, the trains, the ships, the cars, and that You can direct their course. I praise You for Your sovereignty. I praise You that my times are in Your hand, and because of that, I can travel in peace.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Dear Lord,
I thank You that You make me dwell in safety. I thank You that You never sleep; You are never not in control of this earth. That fact is so reassuring to me, especially as I get on a plane this morning and again this evening. I praise You that You can hold in Your hand those planes, the trains, the ships, the cars, and that You can direct their course. I praise You for Your sovereignty. I praise You that my times are in Your hand, and because of that, I can travel in peace.
In Your Name,
Amen.
Monday, March 1, 2010
40 Days of Prayer: Day 11
I am the LORD, that is My name; I will not give My glory to another, nor My praise to graven images. Isaiah 42:8
God in Heaven,
I praise You for Your holiness. You alone deserve all my honor, glory and praise, for You are worthy. Your glory belongs to no other. Dear Lord, I ask that You would guide my heart and mind, that I would not put anything before You; order my priorities so that they are in line with Yours. Let me not give honor and praise to anything except You; for You alone are worthy. Lord, I do not want to misplace the glory that belongs to You. Show me where You don't have first place in my life so that I can confess my sin and turn my heart wholly to You.
In Your Name,
Amen.
God in Heaven,
I praise You for Your holiness. You alone deserve all my honor, glory and praise, for You are worthy. Your glory belongs to no other. Dear Lord, I ask that You would guide my heart and mind, that I would not put anything before You; order my priorities so that they are in line with Yours. Let me not give honor and praise to anything except You; for You alone are worthy. Lord, I do not want to misplace the glory that belongs to You. Show me where You don't have first place in my life so that I can confess my sin and turn my heart wholly to You.
In Your Name,
Amen.
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