Introduction
========= For those who love 'summer-time' it is hard 2 believe that there are those of us who struggle and hurt during this season. There is new revelation I have found that touches my heart about my Maker. He has taught me that when I put forth the effort 2 read HIS WORDS, He gives me promises. How amazing this is 2 me. That He would reward me just bcoz I give Him a tiny portion of the time He Himself has granted me.
I cannot take any credit 4 anything, bcoz even that He has given me.
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1) The Power of Praying God's Word
=========================== IN FACING the challenging circumstances of everyday living, the B.I.B.L.E is a lifeline and a vital 'tool' 4 energizing a prayer life. God makes a precious promise about the power and effectiveness of praying His Word:
"So shall My Word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall 'not' return 2 ME void, but it 'shall' accomplish what I pease, and it 'shall' prosper in the thing 4 which I sent it" [Isa 55:11]
This is so encouraging. God assures us that when we pray His Word and declare it as true in our life, He will do what we're asking Him 2 do. The Bible tells us, "Death and Life are in the power of tongue [the words-we-speak]" [Pro 18:21]
There is a powerful impact whenever we align our own words with the truth of Scripture! When we pray God's Word, we are calling upon the Lor 2 honor His promises 2 breathe LIFE into our circumstances and send blessings 2 our loved ones.
These Promises Are 4 You
==================== God's Word is 'full' of promises, and is inspiration and a taste of the great things the Lord has ordained 4 your and my life. But perhaps you have a lingering doubt when you read the promises of God's Word. "How do I know these promises are really meant 4 me?" you may wonder.
The apostle Paul seems 2 anticipate this question, how interesting; When he writes:
"Whatever things were written b4, were written 4 our learning, waiting 4 us 2 discover them; That we thru the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have HOPE" [Rom 15:4]. The truths of Scripture were written with us in mind!
Paul says this again, repeating it's importance in 2Corinthians 1:18-20:
As God is faithful, our word 2 you was not Yes and No. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. for all the promises of God in Him are YES, and in Him Amen, 2 the glory of God thru us.
In Christ, ALL of God's promises are "YES" 2 you! Whatever you find, apply 2 yourself as Love from Him 2 you today.
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2) Praying 4 Your Children and Grand-Children
==================================== IN PAUL'S 2nd LTR 2 his spiritual son Timothy, we learn that it was the powerful faith of Timothy's mother and grand-mother that helped prepare this young man 4 tremendous ministry [2Tim 1:5]. So dont underestimate the impact 'your' faith can have on 'your' children and grand-children!
Children and grand-children can be one of our greatest sources of joy. And bcoz we love them so much, we also may suffer greatly on their acct. It's especially difficult when our children choose 2 turn their backs on the Lord and walk away from what they know 2b true and good and right. As parents or grand-parents, we may experience intense pain from their poor choices, and sometimes our hearts may break with grief.
There will be times when we'll talk thru painful, grief-filled seasons with our children--seasons when all we can do is cry out 2 God on their behalf. Thankfully, we can trust the Lord 2 draw our children 2 walk closely with Him and serve Him with their whole hearts. Yet there may be valleys we have 2 walk thru b4 we C God answer our prayers and intervene in our children's lives.
Claiming the Word
============= During difficult times with your children, there are important principles 2 remember as you pray God's Word over your kids or grand-kids. It's really so simple! First, ask the Lord 2 lead you 2 Scriptures 2 pray over the specific situations of your children or grand-children. Then in your quiet time, during a Sunday message, in a conversation with a close friend, or in some other way, the Holy Spirit will give you verses that you can turn into powerful prayers.
For example, one time when some friends were praying passionately 4 their child, the Lord led them 2 Jeremiah 31:16-17:
"Refrain your voice from weeping, and your eyes from tears; 4 your work shall be rewarded," says the Lord, "and they shall come back from the land of the enemy."
"There is hope in your future," says the Lord, "that your children shall come back 2 their own border."
When we read these words, tears of joy come. This couple had so many hours interceding on their child's behalf, weeping and broken over his situation . God used His Word 2 remind them that He had a specific plan 4 their son, and they made these verses a prayer 4 their son by inserting his name. As we align our prayers with specific promises from God's Word, the Holy Spirit will move powerfully.
More Scriptures 2 Claim
================== There are many other great Scriptures you can use as prayers over your children and grand-children:
"Yes, I have loved [name] with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn [name]. Again I will rebuild [name], and [name] shall be rebuilt" [Jer 31:3-4].
"But now, thus says the Lord, who created [name], and who formed [name]: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed [name]; I have called [name] by name; [he/she] is Mine. When [name] pases thru the waters, I will be with [him/her]; and thru the rivers, they shall not overflow [him/her]. When [name] walks thru the fire, [he/she] shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch [him/her]' " [Isa 43:1-2].
"[Name] is poor and needy; make haste 2 help [him/her], O God! You are [name's] help and [name's] deliverer; O Lord, do not delay" [Ps 70:5].
These verses are just a sample! Ask the Lord 2 lead you 2 other specific Scriptures that He wants you 2 use as powerful prayers of intercession over your children and grand-children.
Be encouraged today 2 pray and believe God's Word over your Generations. Pray, watch, and wait 4 the Lord 2 bring about His destiny 4 their lives, and you will not be disappointed. Apply this adaptation of Isaiah 44:2-4 over yourself, your children and your grand-children:
"Thus says the Lord who made you and your children and grand-children, and who formed you from the womb who will help you: Fear not, my precious friend, 4 God has chosen you. He will pour water on you who are thirsty, and floods on the dry ground; He will pour His Spirit on your Descendants, and His blessing on your offspring: they will spring up among the grass like willows by the water-courses. In Jesus' Name..AMEN."
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3) Never Give Up!
=============== THE BIBLE TEACHES that perseverance is one of the most important ingredients 4 answered prayer. According 2 Hebrews 6:12, we inherit God's promises thru 'Faith AND
patience'-- not faith alone. What an amazing insight! In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus says we
"always ought 2 pray and not lose heart." He goes on 2 tell the story of a woman who wouldnt stop pounding on the judge's door until she got a response, and thats the posture we should take. Continue to pound on Heaven's door until you see the fruit from your prayers manifest in your life.
Jesus promises us: So I say 2 you, Ask and it will be given 2 you; Seek, and you will find; Knock, and it will be opened 2 you. For everyone who asks, receives, and he who seeks, finds, and 2 him who knocks, the way will be opened [Lk 11:9-10].
The literal Greek translation of this passage says, "Ask and keep on asking..seek and keep on seeking..knock and keep on knocking." We must pray and keep on praying! We must never give up! By the time we have become exhausted, we are at the threshold of our blessing, but bcoz we give up, we feel the answer has never arrived; so never never never give up but hold on 2 the above promise.
Praying With Confidence
================== This is true whenever we are seeking God's intervention in a troubling situation in our lives. Whether we are in need of a physical healing, a financial breakthru, a new job, or a restored relationship, we must cry out 2 God with faith and tenacity. Scripture tells us that satan is like a restless, starving, roaring lion, pacing about and searching 4 victims 2 devour [IPe 5:8-9]. He never stops prowling, so we must never stop praying. Our prayers are our greatest weapon as we wage war on behalf of our own destiny or our loved ones. And one of our most powerful prayer weapons is our ability 2 pray God's Word. The truth is so encouraging! What a joy 2 have confidence that when we pray the Word, God will do whatever we are asking Him 2 do. And let's be honest. when our circumstances are desperate, it's easy 2 cling 2 our own opinions about what God should do. Yet God's ways are not our ways [Isa 55:8-9], so we dont always know what is best in a certain situation. Only He knows what must happen 4 people's hearts 2 change. This is why it's so important 4 us 2 pray Scriptures over our lives and loved ones.
Let Go!
===== When we experience difficult and painful times, there may be days when we struggle with doubt. but the Lord continuously reminds that we are HIS. He loes us so much and is always carving out great testimonies from our experiences and challenges. God asks us 2 trust Him we hold dear, and sometimes He wants us 2 'back off' so He can move in our hearts and lives. We must choose 2 'let go' and place everything in His loving hands.
Be encouraged and pray and totally surrender 'every' concern 2 God. Ask Him 2 do whatever is needed 2 bring about His Kingdom in your situation. Even when things seem 2 get worse b4 they get better, never 4get that god and His mercies are new every morning [Lam 3:21-23]. He loves you--and your loved ones--more than you can comprehend. You can trust Him 100% with your future..and theirs.
Never give up on the Lord as you ask Him 2 transform the difficult situations in your life. He is already at work, and He has a wonderful plan 2 bless you and your loved ones. Ask and keep asking, seeking, knocking and praying. Keep believing, keep trusting, and you WILL see God's goodness and faithfulness in your life and the lives of your loved ones.
This is today's Scripture, whatever day you are reading it, it's your today Scripture promise:
Wait on the Lord and be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord [Ps 27:14]! Never give up on God, 4 He will never give up on you [Phi 1:6]!
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4) Meditate on These Things
===================== SOMETIMES when we pray, we may be expecting God 2 miraculously touch us and give us some kind of instant revelation. But God rarely taps us on the shoulder with an immediate impartation of Knowledge, Wisdom, or Understanding. Learning one of His lessons usually takes Time, Study, and Pray.
Please dont be offended by this, but 2 many Christians are like little birds in a nest, waiting impatiently 4 their mother 2 bring them food. Their little mouths are open, and they're chirping, "Hurry, hurry, we're hungry!" Of course, little birds are helpless and cannot do anything 2 help themselves, but are we? As Believers, we cannot just passively wait 2b fed Scriptural truths by teachers and preachers. we must learn 2 feed ourselves from God's Word. While we believe so strongly in the power of prayer, it's just as important 2 set aside focused times 4 studying God's Word. If you truly desire 2 grow in your relationship with the Lord and become more like Him, you
must do this.
Applying God's Truths 2 Your Life
========================= Many of us have access 2 a smorgasbord of Christian conventions, Bible Studies, Church Services, and TV Preachers. These 'opportunities' can be a real blessing, and many lives are changed bcoz of them. If we wanted 2, we could just go from one feasting banqueting table 2 another, bcoz God's Word is available in so many places in our country. But if we are not careful, we can become 2 dependent on this spoon-feeding. It's possible 2 become so spiritually 'fat' that we're useless 4 anything productive in God's Kingdom.
Just hearing a message and agreeing with it does not mean we actually
learned it. We can admire what was said and even accept God's truth, but until we
act upon it, we haven't allowed His truth 2 become a reality in our lives. we need 2 stop, meditate on what we've heard, and begin applying it 2 our lives b4 moving on 2 the next lesson God has in store 4 us. Most Believers dont practice Scripture meditation, and so they lose much of the benefit they could be gaining from what they read in the Bible or hear preached. The Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13:19 describes this condition:
"When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away, what was sown in his heart."
This story is Jesus' explanation of God's Word being sown into our hearts. He describes different types of soil 2 represent our various human reactions 2 God's truth. According 2 this verse, when Scripture doesn't become an integral part of our life, the enemy comes and immediately 'steals' it from us. His goal is 2 rob us of the most important source of our spiritual growth: God's Word.
The Special Role of Meditation
======================= Keep in mind that transcendental meditation [an Eastern religious practice] is very different from Biblical meditation. While transcendental meditation is a humanistic mental process involving chanting and incantation, Biblical meditation focuses solely on the Lord and His Word. This really shouldn't be so controversial, since Scripture clearly tells us 2 meditate:
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe 2 do according 2 all that is written in it. For then you will make you way prosperous, and then you will have good success [Joshua 1:8].
Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely 2 them, that your progress may be evdent 2 all [ITimothy 4;15].
Mediate within your heart on your bed, and be still [Psalm 4:4].
Finally, brethren, whatever thngs are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy--mediate on these things [Philippians 4:8].
In all of these verses, we are instructed and encouraged 2 use our minds 2 apply the truths of God's Word 2 our lives. We are told 2 mediate on the Lord, His Word, and the things of His Kingdom.
A Common Biblical Practice
===================== Meditation is a spiritual discipline very familiar 2 the Biblical writers:
His delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he
meditates day and night [Psalm 1:2].
When I remember You on my bed, I
mediate on You in the night watches [Psalm 63:6].
I will also
meditate on all Your work, and talk of Your deeds [Psalm 77:12].
I will
meditate on Your precepts, and contemplate Your ways [Psalm 119:15].
Your servant
meditates on Your statutes [Psalm 119:23].
My eyes are awake thru the night watches, that I may
meditate on Your Word [Psalm 119:148].
I
meditate on all Your works; I muse on the work of Your hands [Psalm 143:5].
I will
meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and on Your wondrous works [Psalm 145:5].
A book of remembrance was written b4 Him 4 those who fear the Lord and who
meditate on His Name [Malachi 3:16].
This is an important tool as we pursue greater intimacy with the Lord and greater application of His Word in our lives.
Setting Aside Special Time
==================== When we devote extended time 2 meditation, it can be wonderful! Some meditation time can be focused on prayer, but some of it can be spent just reflecting on the many questions you want 2 ask God. Taking the time 2 think these thru and look up what the Bible has 2 say about them can cause meditation 2 feel like a luxury, and it will create an even greater hunger 4u 2 spend time doing this in the future. Altho it may not be easy 2 find time 4 meditation, this is worth the fight 4u 2 keep growing in your relationship with the Lord. I also enjoy meditating on God's Word and searching 4 His answers 2 the Q's on my heart. It's a wonderful chance 4 me 2 be my true self and experience peace and safety in His Presence. I always come away relaxed and refreshed from this special time of communion with Him.
Finding a Special Place
================= Just as we need 2 set aside special times 4 prayer and meditation, it also helps 2 have a special place where we can get away 4 undistracted fellowship with the Lord. This is beautifully portrayed in a short story by David Wolfe entitled, "Teaching Your Children About God":
There was a Rabbi who had a son. It was soon noticed by the man that the young boy was often in the forest near their house. The boy's father had become worried since he wasnt sure of the dangers his son might face. He decided 2 speak 2 the boy about this, and asked him why he was spending so much time alone in the forest. The boy replied that he was going there 2 find God.
The Rabbi, happy 2 hear that his son was in search of the Divine, noted that the boy didnt have 2 go into the woods 2 find God, "Bcoz," he added, "God is the same everywhere." The boy's answer? "Yes, Dad, but I am not."
It's easy 2 identify with the boy. Some people may not understand why you love 2 get away with your Bible and be alone as you meditate on God's Word...but thats ok. Alone time with Him provides a fantastic opportunity 4u 2 truly be 'you.' God can be so real 2 you when you're alone with Him. You can cry or laugh, and you dont have 2 explain yourself 2 anyone! You can clear away all the cobwebs from your heart and mind, and then truly experience and hear from the Lord as you meditate on His Word.
Know this: Absolutely none of the time you spend with the Lord and His Word will be wasted. You always will come away renewed and refreshed! God Bless You today as you give this gift 2 yourself.
* Your Word is a lamp 2 my feet and a light 2 my path. [Psalm 119:105]
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5) The Bible: Your Guide For Life
========================== HAVE YOU EVER been on a road trip 2 a strange city...w/o a map or a GPS unit? If so, you know what it feels like 2 lose your sense of direction. Thankfully, God has given us a wonderful roadmap 4 our lives: the B.I.B.L.E. Its wisdom covers every situation and area of life, and we can be confident that its advice s
reliable, bcoz it is God's Word 2 us! God describes His Word as Nutritious Spiritual Food that will help you grow stronger in your relationship with Him: "Desire the pure milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby" [IPet 2:2].
01. Forever, O Lord, Your Word is settled in Heaven. [Ps 119:89
02. The Commandment is a lamp, and the Law a light; reproofs of instruction are the way of life. [Pro 6:23].
03. Your testimonies also are my delight and my counselors. [Ps 119:24].
04. Man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord [Deu 8:3].
05. How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according 2 Your Word. [Ps 119:9].
The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul;
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;
The statues of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;
The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever
The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
More 2b desired are they than gold,
Yea, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Morever by them Your servant is warned,
And in keeping them there is a great reward.
06. Your Word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. [Ps 119:11].
07. Jesus said 2 those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My Word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." [John 8:31-32].
08. No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. [2Pe 1:20-21].
09. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe 2 do according 2 all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. [Joshua 1:8].
10. All Scripture is given my inspiration of God, and is profitable 4 doctrine, 4 reproof, 4 correction, 4 instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped 4 every good work. [2Tim 3:16-17].
Prayer: HEAVENLY FATHER, I want 2 know You better. Teach me Your Word. Reveal Your truth. Show me more about who You are and who I am IN You.
Thank You 4 giving me the Bible as my roadmap 4 life. May Your Word and Your Spirit guide me into the abundant life You've already planned 4 me! In Jesus Name. AMEN.
* The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous.
Pro 15:29
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6) God Wants 2 Answer Your Prayers
========================== GOD IS YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER. Like any good father, He wants 2 bless u and meet your needs. After Jesus described how an earthly father wants 2 give good gifts 2 His children, He added, "How much more will your Father who is in Heaven give good things 2 those who ask Him!" (Matthew 7:9-11). Instead of being fearful or timid when we approach God in prayer, the Bible says, "Let us therefore come 'boldly' 2 the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace 2 help in time of need" [Hebrews 4:16]. Whatever your need today, u can boldly approach your Heavenly Father 2 intervene in your situation!
1. Ask, and it will be given 2 u; seek, and u will find; knock, and it will be opened 2 u. For everyone who asks, receives, and he who seeks finds, and 2 him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among u who, if his son asks 4 bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks 4 a fish, will he give him a serpent? If u then, being evil, know how 2 give good gifts 2 your children, how much more will your Father who is in Heaven give good things 2 those who Ask Him! [Matthew 7:7-11].
2. Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give u the desires of your heart [Psalm 37:4].
3. You do not have becoz you do not ask [James 4:2].
4. The Lord is near 2 all who call upon Him, 2 all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear (respect) Him; He also will hear their cry and save them [Psalm 145:18-19].
5. This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according 2 His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him [IJohn 5:14-15].
6. Men always ought 2 pray and not lose heart. [Luke 18:1].
7. Whatever things u ask in prayer, believing, u will receive. [Matthew 21:22].
8. If 2 of u agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done 4 them by My Father in Heaven. [Matthew 18:19].
9. Whatever you ask In My Name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son [John 14:13].
10. If you abide in ME, and My Words abide in u, u will ask what u desire, and it shall be done 4 u [John 15:7].
11. Call 2 ME, and I will answer u, and show u great and mighty things, which u do not know [Jeremiah 33:3].
12. Whatever we ask we receive from Him, bcoz we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight [IJohn 3:22].
13. With God ALL things are possible [Mark 10:27].
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You 4 all the wonderful promises in Your Word! Thank You 4 being faithful 2 meet the needs of Your Children when they cry out 2 You in faith.
Teach me more of Your Word, and draw me into a more intimate relationship with You. Help me hear the Voice of Your Sweet Holy Spirit more distinctly when I pray. Let me have the patience and persistence I need 2 wait upon You 4 the breakthroughs I seek. In Jesus powerful Name. AMEN.
