Joshua 1:8 "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (NKJV).
Joshua 1:8 is the only place in the early English version of the Bible where the word "success" is found. I feel the Lord would have us look at this very important verse, once clause at a time. Today, we will focus on the first clause of Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth."
When God breathed "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth," did He mean that we shouldn't speak it? Of course not. Let's look at this clause in other Bible versions.
I frequent www.BibleGateway.com often, for the many versions of the Bible there, and because you can look at the same passage of scripture in up to 5 versions at a time. This is how some of those versions state the first clause of Joshua 1:8.
--"Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips" (Today's NIV).
--"Never stop reading this Scroll of the Law" (NIRV).
--"Always remember what is written in the Book of the Teachings" (NCV).
--"This Book of the Law must not leave your mouth" (NLV).
--"This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth" (HCS).
--"Don't for a minute let this Book of The Revelation be out of mind" (Message).
--"Study this Book of Instruction continually" (NLT).
It is absolutely crucial that you know what is written in God's Word. Read it (and read it often), memorize it (and review it), study it (go after God's Word, as a scholar), get it down deep into your mind and heart and spirit (until you know that you know it), think it (let it renew your mind), and speak it (to yourself and to others). Those are the first 6 rungs of the Ladder of Success. Don't try to skip any of them, or you may fall off the ladder.
Take an honest look at your relationship with God's Word, especially in the quantity and quality of time you spend with it. Do you climb those 6 rungs quickly or sporadically, or perhaps you try to skip some of those rungs up the Ladder of Success. We'll look at more of this verse next time, and, eventually, we'll look at what "success" means. Right now, though, answer this soul-searching question, "How much do you want it?"
What this has to do with weight loss: Are you experiencing success in your weight-loss journey? If not, ask yourself, "How much do I want it?" An even more powerful question would be, "What steps am I willing to take to get to my goal?" The answers will come. When they do, move forward with courage.
Confession:
Because I want success in every area of my life, I read, memorize, study, meditate on, think about, and speak the powerful Word of God every day.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #118 [Get prayers answered, 7th condition, Part II]
Mark 9:23 "...If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes" (NKJV).
The seventh and final basic condition to answered prayer is: Pray in faith, believing. You can meet the other conditions (pray in the Name of Jesus; pray with praise and thanksgiving; pray without known--unconfessed--sin in your life; pray with the right motive, God's glory; pray from the place of right relationship; pray according to the Word of God), but if you do not pray in faith, believing, you will not see the answer to your prayer. The answer will be an automatic "no."
You know, surely, that "without faith it is impossible to please [God]..." (Hebrews 11:6a, KJV, proper noun inserted for pronoun by author, for clarity). For many believers, however, their faith is merely wishful thinking. They may pray, "Please, God..." but really do not believe that God will "come through" for them. That may be due to a misunderstanding of what faith means, or it may be due to a misunderstanding of who God is.
Jesus talked much about faith. In the future, Lord willing, we will look at many of His instructive words about faith, for great and precious promises are housed therein. Today, let's listen to our Lord, as He shows us, with His words, that blessings (miracles, even) are bestowed according to our faith.
--"Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you..." (Matthew 8:13, NKJV).
--"Your faith has made you well" (Matthew 9:22, NKJV).
--"According to your faith will it be done to you" (Matthew 9:29, NIV).
Some believers think they just don't have the faith needed to see God answer their prayers. I lovingly respond with, "That's baloney!" I am confident in that, because Romans 12:3 mentions "the measure of faith God has given you" (NIV). Notice that God gives each of us "the measure of faith," not a measure of faith. Each believer has the same measure of faith; it's up to each believer to increase his/her faith. We increase our faith each time we stretch our faith to believe God's Word and pray in faith, believing.
Jesus assures you that "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" and "whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours" (Matthew 21:22; Mark 11:24, NIV). In yesterday's devotion, I asked you if you "believe when you see" or if you "see when you believe." Faith believes the answer is "here" when the prayer is spoken. The difference is faith, and faith makes all the difference!
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey can be full of wishful thinking. How often have you thought or said, "I wish I could lose weight faster," "I wish this stall would break," or "I wish I was at goal weight already"? Wishful thinking carries no power with it. Indeed, there is a foundation of sadness, discontentment, or even anger beneath it. However, if you line yourself up with the Word of God and the basic conditions to answered prayer, and pray for God to partner with you, to help you lose weight, break that stall, and reach goal weight, for His glory and your health, and believe in your heart that He is who He says He is (Almighty God, with nothing too hard for Him) and can do what He says He can do (even the impossible), and receive His "yes" answer right in the midst of the unchanged present, God is pleased to say "So be it."
Confession:
When I pray, I make sure I am in right standing with God (confessing known sin in my life) and in right relationship with others (by practicing forgiveness). When I pray, I praise God for who He is, and I thank Him for all He has done, is doing, and will do for me. When I pray, I pray God's Word for my situation and request, asking from a heart motivated to give God all the glory. When I pray, I pray in faith, believing I receive the answer right then, knowing in my heart that, in Jesus' Name, it is done!
The seventh and final basic condition to answered prayer is: Pray in faith, believing. You can meet the other conditions (pray in the Name of Jesus; pray with praise and thanksgiving; pray without known--unconfessed--sin in your life; pray with the right motive, God's glory; pray from the place of right relationship; pray according to the Word of God), but if you do not pray in faith, believing, you will not see the answer to your prayer. The answer will be an automatic "no."
You know, surely, that "without faith it is impossible to please [God]..." (Hebrews 11:6a, KJV, proper noun inserted for pronoun by author, for clarity). For many believers, however, their faith is merely wishful thinking. They may pray, "Please, God..." but really do not believe that God will "come through" for them. That may be due to a misunderstanding of what faith means, or it may be due to a misunderstanding of who God is.
Jesus talked much about faith. In the future, Lord willing, we will look at many of His instructive words about faith, for great and precious promises are housed therein. Today, let's listen to our Lord, as He shows us, with His words, that blessings (miracles, even) are bestowed according to our faith.
--"Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you..." (Matthew 8:13, NKJV).
--"Your faith has made you well" (Matthew 9:22, NKJV).
--"According to your faith will it be done to you" (Matthew 9:29, NIV).
Some believers think they just don't have the faith needed to see God answer their prayers. I lovingly respond with, "That's baloney!" I am confident in that, because Romans 12:3 mentions "the measure of faith God has given you" (NIV). Notice that God gives each of us "the measure of faith," not a measure of faith. Each believer has the same measure of faith; it's up to each believer to increase his/her faith. We increase our faith each time we stretch our faith to believe God's Word and pray in faith, believing.
Jesus assures you that "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer" and "whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours" (Matthew 21:22; Mark 11:24, NIV). In yesterday's devotion, I asked you if you "believe when you see" or if you "see when you believe." Faith believes the answer is "here" when the prayer is spoken. The difference is faith, and faith makes all the difference!
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey can be full of wishful thinking. How often have you thought or said, "I wish I could lose weight faster," "I wish this stall would break," or "I wish I was at goal weight already"? Wishful thinking carries no power with it. Indeed, there is a foundation of sadness, discontentment, or even anger beneath it. However, if you line yourself up with the Word of God and the basic conditions to answered prayer, and pray for God to partner with you, to help you lose weight, break that stall, and reach goal weight, for His glory and your health, and believe in your heart that He is who He says He is (Almighty God, with nothing too hard for Him) and can do what He says He can do (even the impossible), and receive His "yes" answer right in the midst of the unchanged present, God is pleased to say "So be it."
Confession:
When I pray, I make sure I am in right standing with God (confessing known sin in my life) and in right relationship with others (by practicing forgiveness). When I pray, I praise God for who He is, and I thank Him for all He has done, is doing, and will do for me. When I pray, I pray God's Word for my situation and request, asking from a heart motivated to give God all the glory. When I pray, I pray in faith, believing I receive the answer right then, knowing in my heart that, in Jesus' Name, it is done!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #117 [Get prayers answered, 7th condition, Part I]
Mark 9:23 "...If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes" (NKJV).
We have looked at 6 of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, God's glory.
5) Pray from the place of right relationship.
6) Pray according to the Word of God.
Today and tomorrow, we will look at the final condition to answered prayer: 7) Pray in faith, believing. While each condition we've looked at is important, without praying in faith, you can meet all the other conditions and still not see the answer to your prayer.
Faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (KJV). Let's look at the Greek word and definition for each of the main words in this verse. The Greek word for "faith" is pistis. Not only does it mean "reliance upon Christ for salvation," but it means "conviction of the truthfulness of God; constancy in profession of Gospel truth; assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity." The Greek word for "substance" is hupŏstasis (hoop-os’-tas-is), and it means "concrete essence or abstract assurance: confidence, confident, person, substance." The Greek word for "hoped" is ĕlpizō (el-pid’-zo), and it means "expect." The Greek word for "evidence" is ĕlĕgehŏs (el’-eng-khos), and it means "proof, conviction." The Greek word for "seen" is blĕpō (blep’-o), and it means "to look at: behold, perceive, see."
Think of the most recent prayer you prayed, asking God for something. Think about how you worded that prayer. Think about how you felt, when you prayed. Think about the thoughts you had, after you prayed. With the Greek definitions in mind, for the main words, read my personalized version of Hebrews 11:1 ("Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen"): Conviction of the truthfulness of God is the concrete essence or abstract assurance of what I expect, the proof of what I don't yet see.
Based on your most recent asking-prayer experience, which of the following applies to you? Think about each question, and be honest with yourself. Do you believe when you see? or Do you see when you believe? There is a difference, and the difference makes all the difference in asking prayer.
What this has to do with weight loss: What is the proof that you are doing well on your weight-loss journey? Is it the number on the scale or tape measure, how your clothes fit, what the mirror shows, or what others say to/about you? What if none of those things were in any way positive? Would you still believe that "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it" (Philippians 1:6, NKJV)?
Confession: When I pray, I pray in faith, the conviction of the truthfulness of God, and I will receive what I expect to receive.
We have looked at 6 of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, God's glory.
5) Pray from the place of right relationship.
6) Pray according to the Word of God.
Today and tomorrow, we will look at the final condition to answered prayer: 7) Pray in faith, believing. While each condition we've looked at is important, without praying in faith, you can meet all the other conditions and still not see the answer to your prayer.
Faith is defined in Hebrews 11:1, "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (KJV). Let's look at the Greek word and definition for each of the main words in this verse. The Greek word for "faith" is pistis. Not only does it mean "reliance upon Christ for salvation," but it means "conviction of the truthfulness of God; constancy in profession of Gospel truth; assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity." The Greek word for "substance" is hupŏstasis (hoop-os’-tas-is), and it means "concrete essence or abstract assurance: confidence, confident, person, substance." The Greek word for "hoped" is ĕlpizō (el-pid’-zo), and it means "expect." The Greek word for "evidence" is ĕlĕgehŏs (el’-eng-khos), and it means "proof, conviction." The Greek word for "seen" is blĕpō (blep’-o), and it means "to look at: behold, perceive, see."
Think of the most recent prayer you prayed, asking God for something. Think about how you worded that prayer. Think about how you felt, when you prayed. Think about the thoughts you had, after you prayed. With the Greek definitions in mind, for the main words, read my personalized version of Hebrews 11:1 ("Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen"): Conviction of the truthfulness of God is the concrete essence or abstract assurance of what I expect, the proof of what I don't yet see.
Based on your most recent asking-prayer experience, which of the following applies to you? Think about each question, and be honest with yourself. Do you believe when you see? or Do you see when you believe? There is a difference, and the difference makes all the difference in asking prayer.
What this has to do with weight loss: What is the proof that you are doing well on your weight-loss journey? Is it the number on the scale or tape measure, how your clothes fit, what the mirror shows, or what others say to/about you? What if none of those things were in any way positive? Would you still believe that "He who has begun a good work in you will complete it" (Philippians 1:6, NKJV)?
Confession: When I pray, I pray in faith, the conviction of the truthfulness of God, and I will receive what I expect to receive.
Life Plan Devotion #116 [Get prayers answered, 6th condition]
Psalm 119:65 "Do good to your servant according to your word, O LORD" (NIV).
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first five:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
5) Pray from the place of right relationship.
Today, we will look at the sixth condition to answered prayer: 6) Pray according to the Word of God. If you want an absolute "Yes!" to your prayer, pray a promise or precedence from God's Word. When you back up your petition with God's "quick and powerful Word" (Hebrews 4:12, KJV), God is obligated to hear and answer.
Romans 10:17 tells us that "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (NKJV). It is the Word of God that produces faith, the faith that makes prayer dynamic.
Is there a "rock" in front of you? Hear what the LORD declares, "Is not my word like fire...and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?" (Jeremiah 23:29, NIV). Find out what God's Word has to say about your situation, pray that Word, claiming it with absolute faith, and you will see that "rock" crumble!
Paul reminds us that "everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope" (Romans 15:4, NIV). That hope is far from an "I hope it will happen." The Greek word for "hope" is ĕlpis (elpece'), which means "anticipation, expectation, confidence." When your hope is centered in God's Word, you are confident when you pray, and you expect and anticipate that the answer will manifest.
What is your level of commitment to praying God's Word? The psalmist says, "I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises" (Psalm 119:147-148, NIV).
Each of us has experienced someone making a promise and not following through or saying something that was, in actuality, a lie. Meditate on the fact and give thanks that "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?" (Numbers 23:19, NIV). Praise God that He does what He says, and He fulfills every promise.
Beloved, read the Book, know the Book, believe the Book, act on the Book, and pray the Book! Listen to the God-breathed words and echo what the psalmist prayed so long ago, "You are my portion, O LORD; I have promised to obey your words. I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise" (Psalm 119:57-58, NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: How often, when referring to your weight-loss journey, do you say, "I hope __________"? Do you know what God's Word has to say about food, health, patience, endurance, etc.? Find a verse to stand on, for your weight-loss journey, meditate on it, claim it, pray it, and watch God fulfill it in your life and body.
Confession:
I search God's Word for what He has to say about my situation, and when I pray, I pray the powerful Word of God, confident that God, who never lies, is true to His Word, and His Word will be fulfilled in my circumstances.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first five:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
5) Pray from the place of right relationship.
Today, we will look at the sixth condition to answered prayer: 6) Pray according to the Word of God. If you want an absolute "Yes!" to your prayer, pray a promise or precedence from God's Word. When you back up your petition with God's "quick and powerful Word" (Hebrews 4:12, KJV), God is obligated to hear and answer.
Romans 10:17 tells us that "faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (NKJV). It is the Word of God that produces faith, the faith that makes prayer dynamic.
Is there a "rock" in front of you? Hear what the LORD declares, "Is not my word like fire...and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?" (Jeremiah 23:29, NIV). Find out what God's Word has to say about your situation, pray that Word, claiming it with absolute faith, and you will see that "rock" crumble!
Paul reminds us that "everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope" (Romans 15:4, NIV). That hope is far from an "I hope it will happen." The Greek word for "hope" is ĕlpis (elpece'), which means "anticipation, expectation, confidence." When your hope is centered in God's Word, you are confident when you pray, and you expect and anticipate that the answer will manifest.
What is your level of commitment to praying God's Word? The psalmist says, "I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises" (Psalm 119:147-148, NIV).
Each of us has experienced someone making a promise and not following through or saying something that was, in actuality, a lie. Meditate on the fact and give thanks that "God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?" (Numbers 23:19, NIV). Praise God that He does what He says, and He fulfills every promise.
Beloved, read the Book, know the Book, believe the Book, act on the Book, and pray the Book! Listen to the God-breathed words and echo what the psalmist prayed so long ago, "You are my portion, O LORD; I have promised to obey your words. I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise" (Psalm 119:57-58, NIV).
What this has to do with weight loss: How often, when referring to your weight-loss journey, do you say, "I hope __________"? Do you know what God's Word has to say about food, health, patience, endurance, etc.? Find a verse to stand on, for your weight-loss journey, meditate on it, claim it, pray it, and watch God fulfill it in your life and body.
Confession:
I search God's Word for what He has to say about my situation, and when I pray, I pray the powerful Word of God, confident that God, who never lies, is true to His Word, and His Word will be fulfilled in my circumstances.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #115 [Get prayers answered, 5th condition, Part II]
Mark 11:25 "Whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop" (Amplified).
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first four, and today, we will finish looking at the fifth condition to answered prayer:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
5) Pray from the place of right relationship.
In Devotion #114, we looked at Mark 11:25, which implies that if one chooses to continue praying, rather than forgive, his/her prayer will be ineffective.
Notice that nothing in God's Word says to forgive only those who deserve forgiveness. Why is that? The reason is that if it had been included in God's Word, none of us would qualify for God's forgiveness. Celebrate the fact that even though each of us is unworthy of God's forgiveness, we can say with the psalmist, "You are kind and forgiving, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to You" (Psalm 86:5, NIV).
In the New Testament, there are 27 references to "forgive as we forgive." Jesus, in His teaching on prayer, taught us to pray, "Forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us [who has offended us or done us wrong]..." (Luke 11:4, Amplified). Outside of salvation, God forgives us in direct proportion to how much we forgive others. I don't know about you, but I have so many faults and failings that I need and want forgiveness! Therefore, no matter how hard it may be, at times, I know I must forgive others.
Jesus taught by example, even to His dying breath. While on the cross, suffering in agony, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do..." (Luke 23:34, Amplified). Even when we feel that the person who hurt us terribly knew exactly what he/she was doing/saying, according to Jesus, he/she didn't really know.
In I Peter chapter 3, a chapter which addresses right relationship in marriage, verse 7 specifically states what will happen if a husband fails to "live considerately" with his wife, "honoring" her, etc. Husbands should tend their relationship with their spouse "in order that [their] prayers may not be hindered and cut off. [Otherwise you cannot pray effectively]" (Amplified). The same is true for the wife, in relation to her husband.
It is so easy to allow time to pass and wounds to fester. It is not worth it, though. As fellow believers in Christ, we are told to "Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it" (Hebrews 12:15, Amplified). Unresolved relationship issues, especially those involving unforgiveness, will cause your prayers to go unanswered, trouble increases to torment, and others are affected in ever-increasing negative ways.
If the Holy Spirit is nudging you, make the choice to forgive (yes, it is a decision, not a feeling/emotion). Pray just as Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive [him/her/them]..." (Luke 23:34, Amplified, with author's addition of pronouns in brackets). Then "let it drop (leave it, let it go)" (Mark 11:25, Amplified).
What this has to do with weight loss: We know that stress raises our cortisol level, which can increase belly fat. If you are carrying unforgiveness in your heart, it adds to your stress. One of the best things you can do, to add to your spiritual, physical and relational health is to forgive, keeping a clean slate with others.
Confession;
I want to be confident that my prayers are heard and my requests granted, so I tend to my relationship with others and I am quick to forgive, just as God has forgiven me.
Note: If you experience continued unresolved relational issues, please contact a pastor, counselor, or therapist.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first four, and today, we will finish looking at the fifth condition to answered prayer:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
5) Pray from the place of right relationship.
In Devotion #114, we looked at Mark 11:25, which implies that if one chooses to continue praying, rather than forgive, his/her prayer will be ineffective.
Notice that nothing in God's Word says to forgive only those who deserve forgiveness. Why is that? The reason is that if it had been included in God's Word, none of us would qualify for God's forgiveness. Celebrate the fact that even though each of us is unworthy of God's forgiveness, we can say with the psalmist, "You are kind and forgiving, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to You" (Psalm 86:5, NIV).
In the New Testament, there are 27 references to "forgive as we forgive." Jesus, in His teaching on prayer, taught us to pray, "Forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us [who has offended us or done us wrong]..." (Luke 11:4, Amplified). Outside of salvation, God forgives us in direct proportion to how much we forgive others. I don't know about you, but I have so many faults and failings that I need and want forgiveness! Therefore, no matter how hard it may be, at times, I know I must forgive others.
Jesus taught by example, even to His dying breath. While on the cross, suffering in agony, He prayed, "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do..." (Luke 23:34, Amplified). Even when we feel that the person who hurt us terribly knew exactly what he/she was doing/saying, according to Jesus, he/she didn't really know.
In I Peter chapter 3, a chapter which addresses right relationship in marriage, verse 7 specifically states what will happen if a husband fails to "live considerately" with his wife, "honoring" her, etc. Husbands should tend their relationship with their spouse "in order that [their] prayers may not be hindered and cut off. [Otherwise you cannot pray effectively]" (Amplified). The same is true for the wife, in relation to her husband.
It is so easy to allow time to pass and wounds to fester. It is not worth it, though. As fellow believers in Christ, we are told to "Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it" (Hebrews 12:15, Amplified). Unresolved relationship issues, especially those involving unforgiveness, will cause your prayers to go unanswered, trouble increases to torment, and others are affected in ever-increasing negative ways.
If the Holy Spirit is nudging you, make the choice to forgive (yes, it is a decision, not a feeling/emotion). Pray just as Jesus prayed, "Father, forgive [him/her/them]..." (Luke 23:34, Amplified, with author's addition of pronouns in brackets). Then "let it drop (leave it, let it go)" (Mark 11:25, Amplified).
What this has to do with weight loss: We know that stress raises our cortisol level, which can increase belly fat. If you are carrying unforgiveness in your heart, it adds to your stress. One of the best things you can do, to add to your spiritual, physical and relational health is to forgive, keeping a clean slate with others.
Confession;
I want to be confident that my prayers are heard and my requests granted, so I tend to my relationship with others and I am quick to forgive, just as God has forgiven me.
Note: If you experience continued unresolved relational issues, please contact a pastor, counselor, or therapist.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #114 [Get prayers answered, 5th condition, Part I]
Mark 11:24 "...Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe (trust and be confident) that it is granted to you, and you will [get it]" (Amplified).
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first four:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
Today and tomorrow, we will look at the fifth condition: 5) Pray from the place of right relationship. Take some time to examine your relationship with your spouse, child(ren), parent(s), coworker(s), boss, church family, etc.
In thinking about each of those people and your relationship with them, did you feel a "check" in your spirit? Don't be surprised, because "the heart knows its own bitterness..." (Proverbs 14:10, NKJV).
If nothing comes up for you, just to be sure all your relationships are "right," ask a trusted friend or your spouse to help you discern any relationship that needs tending. In the story of the conversion of Simon the sorcerer (Acts 8:9-25), Peter confronts Simon and, with discernment, says, "...your heart is not right in the sight of God. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness, and bound by iniquity" (Acts 8:21, 23, NKJV).
One cannot discuss the importance of right relationships to answered prayer without broaching the topic of forgiveness.
Did you know you can grieve the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 4:30 admonishes the believer with, "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God's own, secured) for the day of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the consequences of sin)" (Amplified).
Instead of grieving the Holy Spirit, we are to "Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Read our key verse (at the top) once again. The verse that follows (Mark 11:25) says, "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop" (Amplified). The implication is that if you choose to continue praying rather than forgive, your prayer will be ineffective.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey brings up much more than the need to release weight. After weight-loss surgery, especially, emotions are on edge, and if there are relationship issues pre-op, they will be magnified post-op. Seek help, and learn to forgive. If you don't, you will struggle, eventually, to release the weight or maintain the weight loss.
Confession:
I want to be confident that my prayers are heard and my requests granted, so I tend to my relationship with others. I want God's forgiveness for myself, so I am quick to forgive others.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first four:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory.
Today and tomorrow, we will look at the fifth condition: 5) Pray from the place of right relationship. Take some time to examine your relationship with your spouse, child(ren), parent(s), coworker(s), boss, church family, etc.
In thinking about each of those people and your relationship with them, did you feel a "check" in your spirit? Don't be surprised, because "the heart knows its own bitterness..." (Proverbs 14:10, NKJV).
If nothing comes up for you, just to be sure all your relationships are "right," ask a trusted friend or your spouse to help you discern any relationship that needs tending. In the story of the conversion of Simon the sorcerer (Acts 8:9-25), Peter confronts Simon and, with discernment, says, "...your heart is not right in the sight of God. For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness, and bound by iniquity" (Acts 8:21, 23, NKJV).
One cannot discuss the importance of right relationships to answered prayer without broaching the topic of forgiveness.
Did you know you can grieve the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 4:30 admonishes the believer with, "Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God's own, secured) for the day of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the consequences of sin)" (Amplified).
Instead of grieving the Holy Spirit, we are to "Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind). And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).
Read our key verse (at the top) once again. The verse that follows (Mark 11:25) says, "And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him and let it drop (leave it, let it go), in order that your Father who is in heaven may also forgive you your [own] failings and shortcomings and let them drop" (Amplified). The implication is that if you choose to continue praying rather than forgive, your prayer will be ineffective.
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey brings up much more than the need to release weight. After weight-loss surgery, especially, emotions are on edge, and if there are relationship issues pre-op, they will be magnified post-op. Seek help, and learn to forgive. If you don't, you will struggle, eventually, to release the weight or maintain the weight loss.
Confession:
I want to be confident that my prayers are heard and my requests granted, so I tend to my relationship with others. I want God's forgiveness for myself, so I am quick to forgive others.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #113 [Get prayers answered, 4th condition, Part II]
Perhaps you've thought or said, in the past, "I prayed and asked God for [such and such], but I didn't get it." While there may be a different reason why God did not answer your prayer in the way or timing you wanted, one soul-searching reason is given in James 4:3, "When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures" (NIV). For example, if you are apt to be a spendthrift, if money tends to "burn a hole in your pocket," God may choose to postpone a "yes" answer to your prayer of additional money, until you get your spending habits under control. When God blesses us with wealth, He expects that a portion of the money be tithed and offerings given for His Kingdom work.
One of the best stories in the Bible about praying with the right motive is one we wouldn't think of in that way, at first. It's the story of the raising of Lazarus, one of Jesus' dearest friends. While I encourage you to read the entire story found in John 11:1-44, I'll focus on selected verses.
Some people say that one should not pray to be healed of a sickness, citing part of John 11:4, "...it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it" (NIV). Let's look at the entire verse (and in context). "When He heard [that Lazarus was sick], Jesus said, 'This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.'" Was Jesus confused? Lazarus died, after all. No, He wasn't confused. He knew that Lazarus would die, and what He was going to do. He waited two more days, after hearing that Lazarus was sick, just so no one would be able to say that Lazarus wasn't really dead. The sickness was not for God's glory, for sickness is a tool of Satan. The raising of Lazarus, the power that Jesus Christ demonstrated, to show that He has power over sin, sickness, and death--that was for God's glory.
I love how Jesus, once again, mentions the importance of faith, of believing Him. Martha, Lazarus' sister, reacts to Jesus' command to "Take away the stone" (verse 39) by stating the obvious, "But, Lord,...by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." Jesus says to Martha something He says to each of us today, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
When the stone to Lazarus' tomb is rolled away, "Jesus looked up and said, 'Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. I knew that You always hear Me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that You sent Me'" (verses 41-42). Then "Jesus called in a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come out!'" (verse 43). Did you ever wonder why Jesus used Lazarus' name? Jesus' words are so powerful that had He said, "Come out!" every dead body would have been resurrected!
What was Jesus' motive in praying for the resurrection of Lazarus? Was it because He loved Lazarus? We know He loved Lazarus, because verse 3 tells us that "the sisters sent word to Jesus, 'Lord, the one you love is sick.'" Yes, Jesus loved Lazarus, but that wasn't His motive for raising him from the dead.
Was Jesus' motive for raising Lazarus a response to Martha saying to Him, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (verse 21)? No, that was not His motive, for Jesus even tells Martha, "Your brother will rise again" (verse 23).
Perhaps Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead because He was moved by Mary, who "fell at His feet...weeping" (verses 32-33). Verses 33 and 35 tell us that "He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled" and "Jesus wept." Jesus was moved with compassion, yes, but that was not His motive for raising Lazarus.
Jesus' motive for raising Lazarus was so that those who were present "would see the glory of God" (verse 40). That must be our motive when we pray, also. If our motive is greed, God will not hear and answer. If our motive is to try to manipulate God's provision, God will not hear and answer. If our motive is to try to merely find relief in our circumstances (for the sake of relief), God will not hear and answer. Our motive must be to bring honor and glory to His name.
When you pray, asking in faith and with the right motive, you "ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name" (I Chronicles 16:29, NIV), and you'll be able to echo the words of II Corinthians 1:20, "...Through [Christ] the 'Amen' is spoken by [me] to the glory of God" [Note: Words in brackets added by author, to clarify meaning.] Pray with the right motive, for the glory of God, for His name's sake, and your "Amen" ("so be it") will get an "Amen" answer from God ("So be it!").
What this has to do with weight loss: What is your motive for losing weight? Perhaps you want to live longer, have a better quality of life, be more active, alleviate pain in your body. Those are all valid motivations, but just think of the extra power and motivation if your number one motive would be to lose weight to bring honor and glory to God, and praying to that end. It's something to think about.
Confession:
I pray with praise and thanksgiving, in the Name of Jesus, and with the right motive--God's glory. When God answers my prayer, I tell others, giving Him all the glory.
One of the best stories in the Bible about praying with the right motive is one we wouldn't think of in that way, at first. It's the story of the raising of Lazarus, one of Jesus' dearest friends. While I encourage you to read the entire story found in John 11:1-44, I'll focus on selected verses.
Some people say that one should not pray to be healed of a sickness, citing part of John 11:4, "...it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it" (NIV). Let's look at the entire verse (and in context). "When He heard [that Lazarus was sick], Jesus said, 'This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.'" Was Jesus confused? Lazarus died, after all. No, He wasn't confused. He knew that Lazarus would die, and what He was going to do. He waited two more days, after hearing that Lazarus was sick, just so no one would be able to say that Lazarus wasn't really dead. The sickness was not for God's glory, for sickness is a tool of Satan. The raising of Lazarus, the power that Jesus Christ demonstrated, to show that He has power over sin, sickness, and death--that was for God's glory.
I love how Jesus, once again, mentions the importance of faith, of believing Him. Martha, Lazarus' sister, reacts to Jesus' command to "Take away the stone" (verse 39) by stating the obvious, "But, Lord,...by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." Jesus says to Martha something He says to each of us today, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
When the stone to Lazarus' tomb is rolled away, "Jesus looked up and said, 'Father, I thank You that You have heard Me. I knew that You always hear Me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that You sent Me'" (verses 41-42). Then "Jesus called in a loud voice, 'Lazarus, come out!'" (verse 43). Did you ever wonder why Jesus used Lazarus' name? Jesus' words are so powerful that had He said, "Come out!" every dead body would have been resurrected!
What was Jesus' motive in praying for the resurrection of Lazarus? Was it because He loved Lazarus? We know He loved Lazarus, because verse 3 tells us that "the sisters sent word to Jesus, 'Lord, the one you love is sick.'" Yes, Jesus loved Lazarus, but that wasn't His motive for raising him from the dead.
Was Jesus' motive for raising Lazarus a response to Martha saying to Him, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died" (verse 21)? No, that was not His motive, for Jesus even tells Martha, "Your brother will rise again" (verse 23).
Perhaps Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead because He was moved by Mary, who "fell at His feet...weeping" (verses 32-33). Verses 33 and 35 tell us that "He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled" and "Jesus wept." Jesus was moved with compassion, yes, but that was not His motive for raising Lazarus.
Jesus' motive for raising Lazarus was so that those who were present "would see the glory of God" (verse 40). That must be our motive when we pray, also. If our motive is greed, God will not hear and answer. If our motive is to try to manipulate God's provision, God will not hear and answer. If our motive is to try to merely find relief in our circumstances (for the sake of relief), God will not hear and answer. Our motive must be to bring honor and glory to His name.
When you pray, asking in faith and with the right motive, you "ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name" (I Chronicles 16:29, NIV), and you'll be able to echo the words of II Corinthians 1:20, "...Through [Christ] the 'Amen' is spoken by [me] to the glory of God" [Note: Words in brackets added by author, to clarify meaning.] Pray with the right motive, for the glory of God, for His name's sake, and your "Amen" ("so be it") will get an "Amen" answer from God ("So be it!").
What this has to do with weight loss: What is your motive for losing weight? Perhaps you want to live longer, have a better quality of life, be more active, alleviate pain in your body. Those are all valid motivations, but just think of the extra power and motivation if your number one motive would be to lose weight to bring honor and glory to God, and praying to that end. It's something to think about.
Confession:
I pray with praise and thanksgiving, in the Name of Jesus, and with the right motive--God's glory. When God answers my prayer, I tell others, giving Him all the glory.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #112 [Get prayers answered, 4th condition, Part I]
John 14:13 "Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son" (NKJV).
Before we begin today's devotion, I want to tell you, dear reader, a few things. First of all, I want you to know how happy I am that you are on this journey with me. Second of all, I want you to know that I am on this journey, too. Do not think that I "have it all together," because I don't. I need to be reminded of these truths, just like you, and I need to allow my belief to influence my behavior.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first three:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
Today, we will look at the fourth condition: 4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory. The word "glory" means "splendor, honor."
In Isaiah 43:7, God tells us why He made us: "...whom I created for My glory, whom I formed and made" (NIV). God tells us Who He is, in Isaiah 42:8: "I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another..." (NIV) and, may I add, we'd better not, either! I have seen people unable to hold on to their healing (a major answer to prayer), because they failed to testify for God, to give Him all the glory, to tell others what God did for them. Giving God all the glory is very serious business.
Does it give God glory, when we call upon Him in difficult times? Absolutely. God urges, "Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me" (Psalm 50:15, NKJV). In Psalm 79:9, the psalmist Asaph prays, "Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of Your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for Your name's sake" (NIV). It brings God glory, when we call upon His Name. When He answers our prayer, He expects to receive all the glory.
What this has to do with weight loss: I've read many accounts of amazing weight loss, with a long list of goals met and victories experienced. I'll be honest, though, that when the author does not give God all the glory, I fear that he/she will end up as a re-gainer. Even for those who feel they've done all the work on their own, they haven't. It brings God glory to help us bring our bodies under submission. As we partner with God, He puts His Hand of blessing upon us. If we try to go it alone, however, and do not give Him the glory He deserves, He must withdraw His Hand of blessing. Trust me, Godpower is much better (and long lasting) than willpower.
Confession:
I pray in the Name of Jesus, with praise and thanksgiving, and without any unconfessed sin in my life. In difficult times, I call upon God, and He delivers me. That gives Him glory, and I attribute to Him all the glory, for setting me free.
Before we begin today's devotion, I want to tell you, dear reader, a few things. First of all, I want you to know how happy I am that you are on this journey with me. Second of all, I want you to know that I am on this journey, too. Do not think that I "have it all together," because I don't. I need to be reminded of these truths, just like you, and I need to allow my belief to influence my behavior.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first three:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
3) Pray without known (unconfessed) sin in your life.
Today, we will look at the fourth condition: 4) Pray with the right motive, which is God's glory. The word "glory" means "splendor, honor."
In Isaiah 43:7, God tells us why He made us: "...whom I created for My glory, whom I formed and made" (NIV). God tells us Who He is, in Isaiah 42:8: "I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another..." (NIV) and, may I add, we'd better not, either! I have seen people unable to hold on to their healing (a major answer to prayer), because they failed to testify for God, to give Him all the glory, to tell others what God did for them. Giving God all the glory is very serious business.
Does it give God glory, when we call upon Him in difficult times? Absolutely. God urges, "Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me" (Psalm 50:15, NKJV). In Psalm 79:9, the psalmist Asaph prays, "Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of Your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for Your name's sake" (NIV). It brings God glory, when we call upon His Name. When He answers our prayer, He expects to receive all the glory.
What this has to do with weight loss: I've read many accounts of amazing weight loss, with a long list of goals met and victories experienced. I'll be honest, though, that when the author does not give God all the glory, I fear that he/she will end up as a re-gainer. Even for those who feel they've done all the work on their own, they haven't. It brings God glory to help us bring our bodies under submission. As we partner with God, He puts His Hand of blessing upon us. If we try to go it alone, however, and do not give Him the glory He deserves, He must withdraw His Hand of blessing. Trust me, Godpower is much better (and long lasting) than willpower.
Confession:
I pray in the Name of Jesus, with praise and thanksgiving, and without any unconfessed sin in my life. In difficult times, I call upon God, and He delivers me. That gives Him glory, and I attribute to Him all the glory, for setting me free.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #111 [Get prayers answered, Part IV]
Matthew 7:7a "Ask and it will be given to you..." (NIV).
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first two:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
Today, we will look at the third condition: 3) Pray without known sin in your life. While rejection of Jesus Christ, our Savior, is what keeps one out of heaven, God does hate sin. God hates sin, for what it does in the heart and life of even the believer. Sin keeps the believer from an intimate relationship with God, and God is all about relationship!
When Jesus was on the cross, He cried out, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46, NIV). Not only was that the prophetic fulfillment of Psalm 22:1, but we get a picture of how our Holy God reacts to sin. He turns away, because He must! Christ did not feel forsaken, in that He did not feel abandoned by His Father, to the painful death of crucifixion. He knew why He had to die, and certainly He laid down His life, willingly. At the very moment when all the sins of the entire world (past, present, and future) came upon our Savior, God turned His head, for He cannot look at sin.
If God refuses to look at sin, it makes perfect sense that He turns a deaf ear to sin. The psalmist said, "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me" (Psalm 66:18, KJV). While the wording is plain, let's look at the Hebrew meanings of each of some of the key words in that verse.
regard: to see; advise self, approve, behold, consider, enjoy, experience, gaze, take heed, joyfully look on, be near, perceive, have regard for, have respect for, cause to see, let see, show self, spy, stare, think, view, visions.
iniquity: strict meaning=>nothingness; trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically=>an idol: affliction, evil, false, idol, mischief, mourning, naught, sorrow, unjust, unrighteous, vain vanity, wickedness.
heart: used figuratively very widely for the feelings, will, and even the intellect.
hear: to hear intelligently (with implication of attention, obedience); consent, consider, discern, give ear, listen, make a proclamation, regard, show forth, make a sound.
If you have known (unconfessed) sin in your life, your prayer will never get past your lips. If you want God to hear your prayer and answer it, you must "stay current" with God. When you pray, you must confess any and every sin. When you know you've "blown it," confess it. Repent of it. Forgiveness is assured. Why carry a sin, when Jesus already carried it for you?
Intimacy with the Lord should be so important that we spend some time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to shine His searchlight into every corner and crevice of our heart. Our heart's cry should be, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV).
Do you want the promise of Matthew 7:7 to apply to you and your prayers? Pray without unconfessed sin in your life. God will hear, for "the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective" (James 5:16, NIV). If you are in right standing with God, you are righteous, and God will hear your prayer.
What this has to do with weight loss: For most people, the sin of gluttony ushered in obesity. If you want your prayer to lose weight answered, confess and receive forgiveness for excessive eating, and, when tempted, look to the Lord for help and a way out of the temptation.
Confession:
I keep a clean slate with God, so that my relationship with Him is right, and I know He hears and will answer my prayer.
Of the 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, we have looked at the first two:
1) Pray in the Name of Jesus.
2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
Today, we will look at the third condition: 3) Pray without known sin in your life. While rejection of Jesus Christ, our Savior, is what keeps one out of heaven, God does hate sin. God hates sin, for what it does in the heart and life of even the believer. Sin keeps the believer from an intimate relationship with God, and God is all about relationship!
When Jesus was on the cross, He cried out, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46, NIV). Not only was that the prophetic fulfillment of Psalm 22:1, but we get a picture of how our Holy God reacts to sin. He turns away, because He must! Christ did not feel forsaken, in that He did not feel abandoned by His Father, to the painful death of crucifixion. He knew why He had to die, and certainly He laid down His life, willingly. At the very moment when all the sins of the entire world (past, present, and future) came upon our Savior, God turned His head, for He cannot look at sin.
If God refuses to look at sin, it makes perfect sense that He turns a deaf ear to sin. The psalmist said, "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me" (Psalm 66:18, KJV). While the wording is plain, let's look at the Hebrew meanings of each of some of the key words in that verse.
regard: to see; advise self, approve, behold, consider, enjoy, experience, gaze, take heed, joyfully look on, be near, perceive, have regard for, have respect for, cause to see, let see, show self, spy, stare, think, view, visions.
iniquity: strict meaning=>nothingness; trouble, vanity, wickedness; specifically=>an idol: affliction, evil, false, idol, mischief, mourning, naught, sorrow, unjust, unrighteous, vain vanity, wickedness.
heart: used figuratively very widely for the feelings, will, and even the intellect.
hear: to hear intelligently (with implication of attention, obedience); consent, consider, discern, give ear, listen, make a proclamation, regard, show forth, make a sound.
If you have known (unconfessed) sin in your life, your prayer will never get past your lips. If you want God to hear your prayer and answer it, you must "stay current" with God. When you pray, you must confess any and every sin. When you know you've "blown it," confess it. Repent of it. Forgiveness is assured. Why carry a sin, when Jesus already carried it for you?
Intimacy with the Lord should be so important that we spend some time in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to shine His searchlight into every corner and crevice of our heart. Our heart's cry should be, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:23-24, NIV).
Do you want the promise of Matthew 7:7 to apply to you and your prayers? Pray without unconfessed sin in your life. God will hear, for "the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective" (James 5:16, NIV). If you are in right standing with God, you are righteous, and God will hear your prayer.
What this has to do with weight loss: For most people, the sin of gluttony ushered in obesity. If you want your prayer to lose weight answered, confess and receive forgiveness for excessive eating, and, when tempted, look to the Lord for help and a way out of the temptation.
Confession:
I keep a clean slate with God, so that my relationship with Him is right, and I know He hears and will answer my prayer.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Thriving In a Season of Chastising, Part IV
This is my second post for today, but I wanted to continue with Beth Moore's study, "Thriving In a Season of Chastising, Part IV." Please look up each scripture reference, to get the maximum benefit and personal revelation.
To get through chastisement victoriously:
1) Do not take it lightly. Hebrews 12:5a
2) Do not lose heart over it. Hebrews 12:5b. Proverbs 3:11-12 Know that God disciplines those He delights in.
3) Humble yourself and receive it. God is drawn to humility. He esteems it. I Peter 5:6. It is a promise that if you will humble yourself before Him, under His mighty hand, He will pick you up in due time, when the process is complete.
4) Never lose sight of the ultimate goal of all chastisement, of what God is after. Hebrews 12:12-13. The ultimate goal of all chastisement is to heal you. He wants you to be healed. I love that even in all my stupidity, God works with me, to heal me. That thing that gets you into trouble needs healing. Every fault line is a broken place. When I keep doing something, something is broken and needs healing. Work with Him, and He will heal you.
What is the "lame thing"? What got broken? What broke it? Ask God. He will give you insight. He wants you to know, so you can be cured. Hebrews 12:11. Galatians 6:7-8. It is the natural law that "you reap what you sow." Know this, though. The only thing that can change how this "harvest" turns out is cooperating with God, with your knees down and your chin up.
The worst thing that ever happened can reap a harvest of righteousness. Cooperate with Him, and reap a harvest of peace and righteousness. I Corinthians 4:4. Your past may not be innocent, but your conscience can be clear, by going through it with God and letting His chastisement heal you.
To get through chastisement victoriously:
1) Do not take it lightly. Hebrews 12:5a
2) Do not lose heart over it. Hebrews 12:5b. Proverbs 3:11-12 Know that God disciplines those He delights in.
3) Humble yourself and receive it. God is drawn to humility. He esteems it. I Peter 5:6. It is a promise that if you will humble yourself before Him, under His mighty hand, He will pick you up in due time, when the process is complete.
4) Never lose sight of the ultimate goal of all chastisement, of what God is after. Hebrews 12:12-13. The ultimate goal of all chastisement is to heal you. He wants you to be healed. I love that even in all my stupidity, God works with me, to heal me. That thing that gets you into trouble needs healing. Every fault line is a broken place. When I keep doing something, something is broken and needs healing. Work with Him, and He will heal you.
What is the "lame thing"? What got broken? What broke it? Ask God. He will give you insight. He wants you to know, so you can be cured. Hebrews 12:11. Galatians 6:7-8. It is the natural law that "you reap what you sow." Know this, though. The only thing that can change how this "harvest" turns out is cooperating with God, with your knees down and your chin up.
The worst thing that ever happened can reap a harvest of righteousness. Cooperate with Him, and reap a harvest of peace and righteousness. I Corinthians 4:4. Your past may not be innocent, but your conscience can be clear, by going through it with God and letting His chastisement heal you.
Life Plan Devotion #110 [praise praying]
Psalm 63:4 "I will praise You as long as I live, and in Your Name I will lift up my hands" (NIV).
Last time, we began looking at the second of 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, to pray with praise and thanksgiving. The first basic condition to getting your prayers answered is to pray in the Name of Jesus. Today, let's continue to look at praise praying.
II Chronicles 20 is a wonderful chapter and an excellent example of praise praying. In verses 13, 15, 17-18, 20-22, Jehoshaphat has just been told that the armies of three nations are coming to do battle with him and all Judah. "And all Judah stood before the Lord, with their children and their wives. [Zechariah's son] said, 'Hearken, all Judah, you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you King Jehoshaphat. The Lord says this to you: Be not afraid or dismayed at this great multitude: for the battle is not yours, but God's. You shall not need to fight in this battle; take your positions, stand still, and see the deliverance of the Lord [Who is] with you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Fear not nor be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.' And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the Lord, worshiping Him. And they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, 'Hear me, O Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God and you shall be established; believe and remain steadfast to His prophets and you shall prosper.' When he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers to sing to the Lord and praise Him in their holy [priestly] garments as they went out before the army, saying, 'Give thanks to the Lord, for His mercy and lovingkindness endure forever!' And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the [armies] who had come against Judah, and they were slaughtered" [Amplified].
Do you see that praise was the weapon? This is an account of a physical confrontation but with a spiritual weapon. When the spiritual meets the physical, the spiritual rules, always wins. Jehosphaphat knew the importance of being led forth in praise and thanksgiving. We would do well to follow his example.
Psalm 100:4 instructs us to "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name" [NIV]. If you pray with praise and thanksgiving, your prayer will lift like incense to the very Throne of God!
Whatever is going on in your life today, consider Philippians 4:6, "Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns" (Message).
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey can be full of battles, just like all of life. Ultimately, "the battle is not yours, but God's." Stand firm, praise Him, and watch Him do battle for you against an enemy who does not want you to win, even in matters of weight. You may lose some skirmishes, but, with God's help, you will win the war.
Confession:
When I pray, I will enter Heaven's gate with thanksgiving and God's court with praise. I will offer to God my sacrifice of praise, not only for what God is doing in my life but for who He is. Because God inhabits praise, my prayers lift as incense to my Father.
Last time, we began looking at the second of 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, to pray with praise and thanksgiving. The first basic condition to getting your prayers answered is to pray in the Name of Jesus. Today, let's continue to look at praise praying.
II Chronicles 20 is a wonderful chapter and an excellent example of praise praying. In verses 13, 15, 17-18, 20-22, Jehoshaphat has just been told that the armies of three nations are coming to do battle with him and all Judah. "And all Judah stood before the Lord, with their children and their wives. [Zechariah's son] said, 'Hearken, all Judah, you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you King Jehoshaphat. The Lord says this to you: Be not afraid or dismayed at this great multitude: for the battle is not yours, but God's. You shall not need to fight in this battle; take your positions, stand still, and see the deliverance of the Lord [Who is] with you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Fear not nor be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you.' And Jehoshaphat bowed his head with his face to the ground, and all Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem fell down before the Lord, worshiping Him. And they rose early in the morning and went out into the Wilderness of Tekoa; and as they went out, Jehoshaphat stood and said, 'Hear me, O Judah, and you inhabitants of Jerusalem! Believe in the Lord your God and you shall be established; believe and remain steadfast to His prophets and you shall prosper.' When he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers to sing to the Lord and praise Him in their holy [priestly] garments as they went out before the army, saying, 'Give thanks to the Lord, for His mercy and lovingkindness endure forever!' And when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushments against the [armies] who had come against Judah, and they were slaughtered" [Amplified].
Do you see that praise was the weapon? This is an account of a physical confrontation but with a spiritual weapon. When the spiritual meets the physical, the spiritual rules, always wins. Jehosphaphat knew the importance of being led forth in praise and thanksgiving. We would do well to follow his example.
Psalm 100:4 instructs us to "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name" [NIV]. If you pray with praise and thanksgiving, your prayer will lift like incense to the very Throne of God!
Whatever is going on in your life today, consider Philippians 4:6, "Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns" (Message).
What this has to do with weight loss: The weight-loss journey can be full of battles, just like all of life. Ultimately, "the battle is not yours, but God's." Stand firm, praise Him, and watch Him do battle for you against an enemy who does not want you to win, even in matters of weight. You may lose some skirmishes, but, with God's help, you will win the war.
Confession:
When I pray, I will enter Heaven's gate with thanksgiving and God's court with praise. I will offer to God my sacrifice of praise, not only for what God is doing in my life but for who He is. Because God inhabits praise, my prayers lift as incense to my Father.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #109 [Getting your prayers answered, Part II]
Matthew 7:7 "Don't bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need" (Message).
Last time, we looked at the first of 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, to pray in the Name of Jesus. Today, we will begin to look at the second condition: 2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
In my ladies' Bible Study group, we've been studying the Old Testament wilderness Tabernacle, the place where God's presence dwelt during the wilderness wanderings of the children of Israel. Every part of the Tabernacle, from the eastern gate to the Holy of Holies, is a shadow of Jesus and redemption.
We learned that God directed where the 12 tribes of Israel would be encamped, around the Tabernacle. The tribe of Judah camped just outside the eastern gate (the only entrance) to the Tabernacle. The name Judah means "praise."
It is interesting to look at some of the Hebrew and Greek words for "praise" (used in the Bible) and the definitions.
yâdâh (yaw-daw’) Hebrew: to hold out the hand; to revere or worship with extended hands; give thanks.
hilûwl (hil-lool’) Hebrew: a sense of rejoicing; a celebration of thanksgiving for harvest.
tehillâh (teh-hil-law’) Hebrew: laudation; a hymn.
tôwdâh (to-daw’) Hebrew: adoration; a choir of worshipers; confession; sacrifice of praise, thanksgiving.
bârak (baw-rak’) Hebrew: to kneel; to bless God as an act of adoration.
hâlal (haw-lal’) Hebrew: to be clear; to shine; to celebrate.
zâmar (zaw-mar’) Hebrew: to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument; to make music, accompanied by the voice; to celebrate in song and music; sing forth praises, psalms.
shebach (sheb-akh’) Hebrew: to adore.
aininĕsis (ah’-ee-nes-is) Greek: the act of praising; a thank offering.
ainĕō (ahee-neh’-o) Greek: to praise God.
dŏxa (dox-ah) Greek: glory, dignity, glorious, honour, praise, worship.
ĕpainĕō (ep-ahee-neh’-o) Greek: to applaud, commend, laud, praise.
humnĕō (hoom-neh’-o) Greek: to celebrate God in song.
As you can see, there are many ways to praise God. Let's look at what the Word has to say about praise:
Hebrews 13:15 [Amplified] "Through Him, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name." Everything we say should be glorifying to God. It's something we should do all the time. That's a challenge!
Psalm 22:3 [KJV] "Thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel." Where does God live/dwell/inhabit? In the praises of His people, so if you want to be sure that God meets you when you pray, just begin by praising Him.
What this has to do with weight loss: When the weight-loss journey gets intense, take some time to praise and thank God for how He has blessed your journey so far, and look to Him for more blessings to come.
Confession:
When I pray, I will offer to God my sacrifice of praise, not only for what God is doing in my life but for who He is. Because God inhabits praise, I know that God is truly present when I praise and worship Him in prayer.
Last time, we looked at the first of 7 basic conditions to answered prayer, to pray in the Name of Jesus. Today, we will begin to look at the second condition: 2) Pray with praise and thanksgiving.
In my ladies' Bible Study group, we've been studying the Old Testament wilderness Tabernacle, the place where God's presence dwelt during the wilderness wanderings of the children of Israel. Every part of the Tabernacle, from the eastern gate to the Holy of Holies, is a shadow of Jesus and redemption.
We learned that God directed where the 12 tribes of Israel would be encamped, around the Tabernacle. The tribe of Judah camped just outside the eastern gate (the only entrance) to the Tabernacle. The name Judah means "praise."
It is interesting to look at some of the Hebrew and Greek words for "praise" (used in the Bible) and the definitions.
yâdâh (yaw-daw’) Hebrew: to hold out the hand; to revere or worship with extended hands; give thanks.
hilûwl (hil-lool’) Hebrew: a sense of rejoicing; a celebration of thanksgiving for harvest.
tehillâh (teh-hil-law’) Hebrew: laudation; a hymn.
tôwdâh (to-daw’) Hebrew: adoration; a choir of worshipers; confession; sacrifice of praise, thanksgiving.
bârak (baw-rak’) Hebrew: to kneel; to bless God as an act of adoration.
hâlal (haw-lal’) Hebrew: to be clear; to shine; to celebrate.
zâmar (zaw-mar’) Hebrew: to touch the strings or parts of a musical instrument; to make music, accompanied by the voice; to celebrate in song and music; sing forth praises, psalms.
shebach (sheb-akh’) Hebrew: to adore.
aininĕsis (ah’-ee-nes-is) Greek: the act of praising; a thank offering.
ainĕō (ahee-neh’-o) Greek: to praise God.
dŏxa (dox-ah) Greek: glory, dignity, glorious, honour, praise, worship.
ĕpainĕō (ep-ahee-neh’-o) Greek: to applaud, commend, laud, praise.
humnĕō (hoom-neh’-o) Greek: to celebrate God in song.
As you can see, there are many ways to praise God. Let's look at what the Word has to say about praise:
Hebrews 13:15 [Amplified] "Through Him, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name." Everything we say should be glorifying to God. It's something we should do all the time. That's a challenge!
Psalm 22:3 [KJV] "Thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel." Where does God live/dwell/inhabit? In the praises of His people, so if you want to be sure that God meets you when you pray, just begin by praising Him.
What this has to do with weight loss: When the weight-loss journey gets intense, take some time to praise and thank God for how He has blessed your journey so far, and look to Him for more blessings to come.
Confession:
When I pray, I will offer to God my sacrifice of praise, not only for what God is doing in my life but for who He is. Because God inhabits praise, I know that God is truly present when I praise and worship Him in prayer.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #108 [How to get your prayers answered]
Matthew 7:7a "Ask, and it shall be given you..." [KJV].
Last time, we looked at the 4 principles of asking:
1) Ask as if you expect to get it, which is faith.
2) Ask someone who has the authority to give it to you, which is praying in the name of Jesus.
3) Ask in a way that is clear and specific, which is praying with a clear intention.
4) Ask repeatedly, which is praying with persistence.
There are 7 basic conditions to answered prayer. Today, we will look at the first condition: 1) Pray in the Name of Jesus. In John 14:13-14, Jesus says, "I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it" (NIV). Praying in the Name of Jesus is more than just tacking on "in Jesus' Name" at the end of your prayers.
What is Jesus' Name? Isaiah prophesied about Jesus, when he said, "Unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6, NIV). In my searching of the Scriptures, I have found 103 names of Jesus, from A-W, in many books from Genesis to Revelation.
What is so special about Jesus' name? "God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow...and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:9-11, NIV).
When I taught high school, I was astounded at how few young people really understood the importance of one's name. Your name is who you are, and it's what you make of it! Every name has a meaning, and in times past, parents chose the name of their new baby very carefully, as it was very often a type of prophecy as to who that baby would become, character wise.
How often do you hear the name of God or Jesus Christ spoken in a flippant or profane manner? No doubt it takes a "Damascus Road experience" (read the account of Saul's conversion in Acts chapter 9) to appreciate the Name of Jesus. Demons tremble at the sound of that Name, and all Heaven stands at attention when you mention that Name--Jesus.
Meditate on the Name of Jesus. Look at the names of Jesus used in God's Word, until you get an understanding of Who He IS. How will you know when you get that "understanding"? If you can speak at all, you will echo the words of David, when he proclaimed, "Let all the earth fear [revere and worship Him]; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him" (Psalm 33:8, Amplified).
What this has to do with weight loss: If you are a believer, God calls you "the elect of God, holy and beloved" (Colossians 3:12, NKJV). You are His beloved. You are much loved, which is what "beloved" means. Have no doubt that He wants the very best for you, including a healthy body, and He has given you the powerful Name of Jesus in which to pray to the Father. Speak The Name in awe, and pray it wisely.
Confession:
The Name of Jesus is awesome and powerful, just as is He! When I pray, I pray in the Name of Jesus, as directed by Jesus and in accordance with God's Word, and I am assured that He will do what I ask, for His glory.
Last time, we looked at the 4 principles of asking:
1) Ask as if you expect to get it, which is faith.
2) Ask someone who has the authority to give it to you, which is praying in the name of Jesus.
3) Ask in a way that is clear and specific, which is praying with a clear intention.
4) Ask repeatedly, which is praying with persistence.
There are 7 basic conditions to answered prayer. Today, we will look at the first condition: 1) Pray in the Name of Jesus. In John 14:13-14, Jesus says, "I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it" (NIV). Praying in the Name of Jesus is more than just tacking on "in Jesus' Name" at the end of your prayers.
What is Jesus' Name? Isaiah prophesied about Jesus, when he said, "Unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6, NIV). In my searching of the Scriptures, I have found 103 names of Jesus, from A-W, in many books from Genesis to Revelation.
What is so special about Jesus' name? "God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow...and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:9-11, NIV).
When I taught high school, I was astounded at how few young people really understood the importance of one's name. Your name is who you are, and it's what you make of it! Every name has a meaning, and in times past, parents chose the name of their new baby very carefully, as it was very often a type of prophecy as to who that baby would become, character wise.
How often do you hear the name of God or Jesus Christ spoken in a flippant or profane manner? No doubt it takes a "Damascus Road experience" (read the account of Saul's conversion in Acts chapter 9) to appreciate the Name of Jesus. Demons tremble at the sound of that Name, and all Heaven stands at attention when you mention that Name--Jesus.
Meditate on the Name of Jesus. Look at the names of Jesus used in God's Word, until you get an understanding of Who He IS. How will you know when you get that "understanding"? If you can speak at all, you will echo the words of David, when he proclaimed, "Let all the earth fear [revere and worship Him]; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him" (Psalm 33:8, Amplified).
What this has to do with weight loss: If you are a believer, God calls you "the elect of God, holy and beloved" (Colossians 3:12, NKJV). You are His beloved. You are much loved, which is what "beloved" means. Have no doubt that He wants the very best for you, including a healthy body, and He has given you the powerful Name of Jesus in which to pray to the Father. Speak The Name in awe, and pray it wisely.
Confession:
The Name of Jesus is awesome and powerful, just as is He! When I pray, I pray in the Name of Jesus, as directed by Jesus and in accordance with God's Word, and I am assured that He will do what I ask, for His glory.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #107 [Ask]
Matthew 7:7 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you" [NIV].
If you want to receive from God, you must ask Him. The Greek word for "ask" in Matthew 7:7 is aitĕō, which means "to ask, beg, call for, crave, desire, require." It is interesting to notice the varying degrees of intensity implied in that list. If you think about it, each word fits nicely within the list of words in defining the Greek word for "need" from Philippians 4:19 (see Devotion #104).
The Greek word for "given" in Matthew 7:7 is didōmi, which means "adventure, bring forth, commit, deliver, give, grant, receive." When I read those words, I was impressed with the implication of time. Sometimes the result of the promise, "Ask and it will be given to you..." is instant; sometimes it takes much longer; sometimes it comes with an "adventure," usually a faith adventure.
Yesterday, we looked at 4 principles of asking. Let's review them and see if we can make a spiritual connection to each one:
1) Ask as if you expect to get it. That is an excellent way of pointing to the important concept of asking in faith. Matthew 21:22 says, "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
2) Ask someone who has the authority to give it to you. Remember our previous verse, Philippians 4:19? Look at the last part: "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Ask God, in the name of Jesus.
3) Ask in a way that is clear and specific. In Luke 18:41, Jesus asks the blind beggar who had cried out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" the following question, "What do you want me to do for you?" Did Jesus not know the man was blind? Did Jesus not know what the man wanted? Of course Jesus knew the man was blind, and He knew the man wanted to see, but Jesus asked him the same question He asks you today, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind man answers Jesus' question by responding, "Lord, I want to see." That is clear and specific.
4) Ask repeatedly. Unless what you're asking for is clearly stated in God's Word as God's Will, you should be persistent. In Luke 18:1-5, Jesus tells the parable of the persistent widow, who kept coming to the judge to plead for justice. The purpose of this parable, according to Luke 18:1 is "to show [His disciples] that they should always pray and not give up" (NIV). [Note: Information added in brackets by author, for clarity.]
Prayer is powerful, but God can do nothing until you ask. This has been His "track record" since the Book of Genesis. In the secular world, sometimes you don't ask because you're afraid of rejection. You deny yourself, when you do that. Someone once said, "Some will, some won't,...so what!" Reject rejection! In the spiritual realm, "...You do not have, because you do not ask God" (James 4:2, NIV). If you do not ask, it won't happen.
What this has to do with weight loss: I have opportunity to talk to various people who are on the weight-loss journey, and their needs are many. More times than not, after listening to their situation, I will ask, "Have you prayed and asked God to help you with that?" More times than not, their answer will be, "No, I haven't thought to do that yet." You can almost hear, "I could have had a V8!"--the commercial. If you haven't asked God to help you, why don't you do that now, and be sure to listen for the answer and His help for your situation.
Confession: According to the promise of Matthew 7:7, I ask in prayer, in faith believing that "it will be given to [me]."
If you want to receive from God, you must ask Him. The Greek word for "ask" in Matthew 7:7 is aitĕō, which means "to ask, beg, call for, crave, desire, require." It is interesting to notice the varying degrees of intensity implied in that list. If you think about it, each word fits nicely within the list of words in defining the Greek word for "need" from Philippians 4:19 (see Devotion #104).
The Greek word for "given" in Matthew 7:7 is didōmi, which means "adventure, bring forth, commit, deliver, give, grant, receive." When I read those words, I was impressed with the implication of time. Sometimes the result of the promise, "Ask and it will be given to you..." is instant; sometimes it takes much longer; sometimes it comes with an "adventure," usually a faith adventure.
Yesterday, we looked at 4 principles of asking. Let's review them and see if we can make a spiritual connection to each one:
1) Ask as if you expect to get it. That is an excellent way of pointing to the important concept of asking in faith. Matthew 21:22 says, "If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer."
2) Ask someone who has the authority to give it to you. Remember our previous verse, Philippians 4:19? Look at the last part: "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Ask God, in the name of Jesus.
3) Ask in a way that is clear and specific. In Luke 18:41, Jesus asks the blind beggar who had cried out, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" the following question, "What do you want me to do for you?" Did Jesus not know the man was blind? Did Jesus not know what the man wanted? Of course Jesus knew the man was blind, and He knew the man wanted to see, but Jesus asked him the same question He asks you today, "What do you want me to do for you?" The blind man answers Jesus' question by responding, "Lord, I want to see." That is clear and specific.
4) Ask repeatedly. Unless what you're asking for is clearly stated in God's Word as God's Will, you should be persistent. In Luke 18:1-5, Jesus tells the parable of the persistent widow, who kept coming to the judge to plead for justice. The purpose of this parable, according to Luke 18:1 is "to show [His disciples] that they should always pray and not give up" (NIV). [Note: Information added in brackets by author, for clarity.]
Prayer is powerful, but God can do nothing until you ask. This has been His "track record" since the Book of Genesis. In the secular world, sometimes you don't ask because you're afraid of rejection. You deny yourself, when you do that. Someone once said, "Some will, some won't,...so what!" Reject rejection! In the spiritual realm, "...You do not have, because you do not ask God" (James 4:2, NIV). If you do not ask, it won't happen.
What this has to do with weight loss: I have opportunity to talk to various people who are on the weight-loss journey, and their needs are many. More times than not, after listening to their situation, I will ask, "Have you prayed and asked God to help you with that?" More times than not, their answer will be, "No, I haven't thought to do that yet." You can almost hear, "I could have had a V8!"--the commercial. If you haven't asked God to help you, why don't you do that now, and be sure to listen for the answer and His help for your situation.
Confession: According to the promise of Matthew 7:7, I ask in prayer, in faith believing that "it will be given to [me]."
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #106 [Phil. 4:19--What next?]
Philippians 4:19 "My God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" (Amplified Version).
Our every need is supplied by God, and since God lives in the supernatural, His provision comes from the supernatural. Since we live in the natural, we tend to look to the natural for provision. Our challenge is to allow our supernatural Heavenly Father to intervene in our natural circumstances.
One of my majors in college was Business Education, and I learned the importance of asking, whether one is an employee or a CEO. I learned that there are 4 principles of asking:
1) Ask as if you expect to get it.
2) Ask someone who has the authority to give it to you.
3) Ask in a way that is clear and specific.
4) Ask repeatedly.
Does God want us to ask Him for provision? After all, He knows everything. He knows what we need, so we should merely sit back and wait for Him to provide, in His sovereign will and timing. Right? Wrong. How do I know that? Let's look at the verse on which we will focus for the next few days.
Matthew 7:7 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be open to you" (NIV).
When I read that verse about a week ago, I saw a principle of provision from the very mouth of Jesus Christ:
Ask
Seek
Knock
We will continue to look at the principle of asking. Until next time, be thinking of how that involves prayer, especially in your own life.
What this has to do with weight loss: Whatever needs you have on your weight-loss journey, consider asking for help. Too many are too proud to ask for what they need. Not only are there people around who can help you, there is Someone always near, to whom you can go and express your needs. He has all the answers.
Confession:
God wants me to ask Him to supply my need. Therefore, I will learn to pray and ask my supernatural Heavenly Father to supply my natural needs.
Our every need is supplied by God, and since God lives in the supernatural, His provision comes from the supernatural. Since we live in the natural, we tend to look to the natural for provision. Our challenge is to allow our supernatural Heavenly Father to intervene in our natural circumstances.
One of my majors in college was Business Education, and I learned the importance of asking, whether one is an employee or a CEO. I learned that there are 4 principles of asking:
1) Ask as if you expect to get it.
2) Ask someone who has the authority to give it to you.
3) Ask in a way that is clear and specific.
4) Ask repeatedly.
Does God want us to ask Him for provision? After all, He knows everything. He knows what we need, so we should merely sit back and wait for Him to provide, in His sovereign will and timing. Right? Wrong. How do I know that? Let's look at the verse on which we will focus for the next few days.
Matthew 7:7 "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be open to you" (NIV).
When I read that verse about a week ago, I saw a principle of provision from the very mouth of Jesus Christ:
Ask
Seek
Knock
We will continue to look at the principle of asking. Until next time, be thinking of how that involves prayer, especially in your own life.
What this has to do with weight loss: Whatever needs you have on your weight-loss journey, consider asking for help. Too many are too proud to ask for what they need. Not only are there people around who can help you, there is Someone always near, to whom you can go and express your needs. He has all the answers.
Confession:
God wants me to ask Him to supply my need. Therefore, I will learn to pray and ask my supernatural Heavenly Father to supply my natural needs.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Thriving In a Season of Chastising, Part III
This is my second post for today, but I wanted to post the notes from today's Beth Moore's study on Life Today, "Thriving In a Season of Chastising" (part III). I encourage the reader to read each scripture reference.
What happens when we cause our suffering, our own consequences? We're full of regret. How do we deal with that? Nothing is more complex than that, when old consequences go on after you've been healed. What do you do then?
You may be dealing with consequences from sin, pride, self-righteousness, a poor business or financial decision, going ahead when "something" told you not to, an infidelity, etc. What should you do?
Know your place in God and in the Body of Christ. Hebrews 12:5-13. Endure hardship, even though it's hard. It's a part of Fatherly discipline, and it is for your good.
Hebrews 12:15. Don't miss the Grace of God! Even though it's your own fault, there's Grace for you.
Remember the difference between consequence and chastisement:
Consequence: the natural order of God as boss (you reap what you sow; it's the same for the believer and the unbeliever)
Chastisement: God's supernatural order as Father (His Abba love for you, His favored child)
When we allow God to overtake our consequences, they become part of a teaching process.
Psalm 103:10-13. God doesn't treat us as our sins deserve. God only allows the consequences to come to pass that will teach us. It is never correction for the sake of correction. It is not punishment. It will teach us. The consequences help us know that this isn't where we want to be. They help us get to the place where we're ready to change.
What makes a season of chastisement so difficult is that we have to accept our fault in the matter. We cannot "get on with it" until we do that. Hebrews 12:5b. God "rebukes" us. The word "rebukes" means to point out a fault. When He does that, accept it and learn from it.
What happens when we cause our suffering, our own consequences? We're full of regret. How do we deal with that? Nothing is more complex than that, when old consequences go on after you've been healed. What do you do then?
You may be dealing with consequences from sin, pride, self-righteousness, a poor business or financial decision, going ahead when "something" told you not to, an infidelity, etc. What should you do?
Know your place in God and in the Body of Christ. Hebrews 12:5-13. Endure hardship, even though it's hard. It's a part of Fatherly discipline, and it is for your good.
Hebrews 12:15. Don't miss the Grace of God! Even though it's your own fault, there's Grace for you.
Remember the difference between consequence and chastisement:
Consequence: the natural order of God as boss (you reap what you sow; it's the same for the believer and the unbeliever)
Chastisement: God's supernatural order as Father (His Abba love for you, His favored child)
When we allow God to overtake our consequences, they become part of a teaching process.
Psalm 103:10-13. God doesn't treat us as our sins deserve. God only allows the consequences to come to pass that will teach us. It is never correction for the sake of correction. It is not punishment. It will teach us. The consequences help us know that this isn't where we want to be. They help us get to the place where we're ready to change.
What makes a season of chastisement so difficult is that we have to accept our fault in the matter. We cannot "get on with it" until we do that. Hebrews 12:5b. God "rebukes" us. The word "rebukes" means to point out a fault. When He does that, accept it and learn from it.
Life Plan Devotion #105 [Philippians 4:19--Qualifications]
Philippians 4:19 "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from His glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus" (NLT).
There are 3 qualifications for experiencing the manifestation of the Philippians 4:19 promise in your life: 1) You must have a need, 2) You must know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and 3) You must be a giver.
Paul writes, in Philippians 4:15-18, to the church at Philippi, "As you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only, for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (NIV).
Paul had a need, and, of all the churches that Paul visited, the only church who met that need was the Philippian church. Because they were sowers, they qualified for the Philippians 4:19 promise. They were the only ones to partner with Paul, so they got all the blessing "credited to [their] [spiritual] account" (4:17), and any blessing credited to one's spiritual account will also show up as blessing in one's natural circumstances.
If you are a giver, a sower, out meeting the needs of the Kingdom of God, doing your best for God, Philippians 4:19 applies to you. If you're a giver, you'll be a receiver! Be assured, also, that when you give to others, it is "a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (4:18).
What this has to do with weight loss: There are many ways to be "a giver," while on your own weight-loss journey. Too often, we have tunnel vision; all we can see is the "pot of GOAL" at the end of the "not-so-rainbow like" journey. On your way to goal, look for ways to help others on their journey, and you will find that your own journey looks and feels much more like a beautiful rainbow.
Confession:
I look for opportunities to give, to sow, to meet the needs of others, and God is pleased to supply my every need.
There are 3 qualifications for experiencing the manifestation of the Philippians 4:19 promise in your life: 1) You must have a need, 2) You must know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and 3) You must be a giver.
Paul writes, in Philippians 4:15-18, to the church at Philippi, "As you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only, for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (NIV).
Paul had a need, and, of all the churches that Paul visited, the only church who met that need was the Philippian church. Because they were sowers, they qualified for the Philippians 4:19 promise. They were the only ones to partner with Paul, so they got all the blessing "credited to [their] [spiritual] account" (4:17), and any blessing credited to one's spiritual account will also show up as blessing in one's natural circumstances.
If you are a giver, a sower, out meeting the needs of the Kingdom of God, doing your best for God, Philippians 4:19 applies to you. If you're a giver, you'll be a receiver! Be assured, also, that when you give to others, it is "a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (4:18).
What this has to do with weight loss: There are many ways to be "a giver," while on your own weight-loss journey. Too often, we have tunnel vision; all we can see is the "pot of GOAL" at the end of the "not-so-rainbow like" journey. On your way to goal, look for ways to help others on their journey, and you will find that your own journey looks and feels much more like a beautiful rainbow.
Confession:
I look for opportunities to give, to sow, to meet the needs of others, and God is pleased to supply my every need.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #104 [Philippians 4:19--all your need]
Philippians 4:19 "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" [NKJV].
Yesterday, we looked at the phrase "shall supply," how that God will "'fill to the full' your every need" (Amplified Version). No matter the need, no matter how big it is or how seemingly insurmountable, God will do His part if we do our part.
Philippians 4:19 says that "God will supply all your need..." How many of your needs will God supply? All, and "all" means ALL. Meditate on that, and remember, if you do your part, God will do His part.
Notice that Philippians 4:19 says that "God will supply all your need..." The Greek word for "need" for this verse is chreia, and it means "employment, affair [as in business matter], occasion, demand, requirement, destitution, business, lack, necessity, need, use, want." Look at that list! There is everything from a "job" to a "want."
As lovingly as I can, I must say to you that God has promised to "supply all your need," but not your greed. You and I may disagree over what is a true "need," but God looks past the need to your heart's condition and motivation. We'll visit this more in the future.
"God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory..." The Greek word for "riches" for this verse is ploutos, and it means "wealth (as fullness), money, possessions, abundance, riches, valuable bestowment." Sometimes Christians are uncomfortable with talking about God and money, but there should never be a poverty mentality in the family of God! He owns it all, He wants to bless His people in every way, and He desires that His people become a blessing to others and be highly effective workers for His Kingdom.
The Greek word for "glory" for this verse is doxa, and it means "dignity, glory, honour, praise, worship." The Strong's Dictionary of Bible Words defines "glory" as "glory, brilliance." If a Christian is experiencing lack, would that add to or detract from God's dignity, glory, honour, praise, worship? Think about that, and we will revisit it in the future.
"God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." There are 3 qualifications for experiencing the manifestation of the Philippians 4:19 promise in your life: 1) You must have a need, 2) You must know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and 3) We'll look at #3 tomorrow, so be sure to come back then.
What this has to do with weight loss: Since God has all "riches in glory," it is easy for Him to supply your every need, even the practical needs on your weight-loss journey. Even if you are on a seemingly tight budget, He will provide for your supplements, all that you need to be healthy in body. If you are His child, trust Him to do so.
Confession:
When I have a need, I will bring it to the Lord. I know I can, because I am His child.
Yesterday, we looked at the phrase "shall supply," how that God will "'fill to the full' your every need" (Amplified Version). No matter the need, no matter how big it is or how seemingly insurmountable, God will do His part if we do our part.
Philippians 4:19 says that "God will supply all your need..." How many of your needs will God supply? All, and "all" means ALL. Meditate on that, and remember, if you do your part, God will do His part.
Notice that Philippians 4:19 says that "God will supply all your need..." The Greek word for "need" for this verse is chreia, and it means "employment, affair [as in business matter], occasion, demand, requirement, destitution, business, lack, necessity, need, use, want." Look at that list! There is everything from a "job" to a "want."
As lovingly as I can, I must say to you that God has promised to "supply all your need," but not your greed. You and I may disagree over what is a true "need," but God looks past the need to your heart's condition and motivation. We'll visit this more in the future.
"God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory..." The Greek word for "riches" for this verse is ploutos, and it means "wealth (as fullness), money, possessions, abundance, riches, valuable bestowment." Sometimes Christians are uncomfortable with talking about God and money, but there should never be a poverty mentality in the family of God! He owns it all, He wants to bless His people in every way, and He desires that His people become a blessing to others and be highly effective workers for His Kingdom.
The Greek word for "glory" for this verse is doxa, and it means "dignity, glory, honour, praise, worship." The Strong's Dictionary of Bible Words defines "glory" as "glory, brilliance." If a Christian is experiencing lack, would that add to or detract from God's dignity, glory, honour, praise, worship? Think about that, and we will revisit it in the future.
"God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." There are 3 qualifications for experiencing the manifestation of the Philippians 4:19 promise in your life: 1) You must have a need, 2) You must know Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, and 3) We'll look at #3 tomorrow, so be sure to come back then.
What this has to do with weight loss: Since God has all "riches in glory," it is easy for Him to supply your every need, even the practical needs on your weight-loss journey. Even if you are on a seemingly tight budget, He will provide for your supplements, all that you need to be healthy in body. If you are His child, trust Him to do so.
Confession:
When I have a need, I will bring it to the Lord. I know I can, because I am His child.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Life Plan Devotion #103 [Phil. 4:19--shall supply]
Philippians 4:19 "My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" [NKJV].
In Life Plan Devotion #102, we looked at the phrase, "My God" and how wonderful it is to know that He is your God. He is your source, not your job or your paycheck.
Philippians 4:19 says that "[Your] God shall supply all your need..." [Note: Pronoun changed by author, to directly address the reader.] That helping verb "shall" is so important. Other versions will say "will supply," which means the same thing. What a difference if the helping verb "can" or "might" had been used! Philippians 4:19 is a promise that God will supply your need. It goes beyond ability; it goes beyond possibility. All of God's promises are "Yes" and "Amen," so it carries a 100% guarantee. As long as we do our part and line ourselves up with God's Word, He will do His part.
"God will supply all your need..." The Greek word for "supply" is plērŏō, and it means "accomplish, fill up, make full, supply." The literal meaning is "to cram a net, to level up a hollow" (Strong's Exhaustive Concordance). Think about that, until you get a mental picture.
The Amplified Version of Philippians 4:19 is, "My God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." The addition of "fill to the full" comes from Joseph Thayer's A Greek-English Lexicon.
What is your need right now? Is it physical? Is it emotional? Is it mental? Is it spiritual? Is it material? Whatever your need, God desires to fill it to the full. A song just came floating through my mind, "There is no problem too big God cannot solve it. There is no mountain too tall He cannot move it..." (He Will Carry You).
Tomorrow we will look at the group of people Paul said qualified for this Philippians 4:19 promise. It is a key part in the "your part" of the promise.
What this has to do with weight loss: Whatever you need, to be successful on your weight-loss journey, God desires to supply it.
Confession:
My God will supply all my need, as I line myself up with the principles in His Word.
In Life Plan Devotion #102, we looked at the phrase, "My God" and how wonderful it is to know that He is your God. He is your source, not your job or your paycheck.
Philippians 4:19 says that "[Your] God shall supply all your need..." [Note: Pronoun changed by author, to directly address the reader.] That helping verb "shall" is so important. Other versions will say "will supply," which means the same thing. What a difference if the helping verb "can" or "might" had been used! Philippians 4:19 is a promise that God will supply your need. It goes beyond ability; it goes beyond possibility. All of God's promises are "Yes" and "Amen," so it carries a 100% guarantee. As long as we do our part and line ourselves up with God's Word, He will do His part.
"God will supply all your need..." The Greek word for "supply" is plērŏō, and it means "accomplish, fill up, make full, supply." The literal meaning is "to cram a net, to level up a hollow" (Strong's Exhaustive Concordance). Think about that, until you get a mental picture.
The Amplified Version of Philippians 4:19 is, "My God will liberally supply (fill to the full) your every need according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." The addition of "fill to the full" comes from Joseph Thayer's A Greek-English Lexicon.
What is your need right now? Is it physical? Is it emotional? Is it mental? Is it spiritual? Is it material? Whatever your need, God desires to fill it to the full. A song just came floating through my mind, "There is no problem too big God cannot solve it. There is no mountain too tall He cannot move it..." (He Will Carry You).
Tomorrow we will look at the group of people Paul said qualified for this Philippians 4:19 promise. It is a key part in the "your part" of the promise.
What this has to do with weight loss: Whatever you need, to be successful on your weight-loss journey, God desires to supply it.
Confession:
My God will supply all my need, as I line myself up with the principles in His Word.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Thriving In a Season of Chastising, Part II
This is a continuation of last week's Beth Moore Bible Study from Life Today. I encourage the reader to look up every Bible reference.
2) Others are affected by our consequences. It’s difficult for those we love, for those who love us. We’ll have either one of two reactions. We’ll either go through denial (“Let’s just not talk about it”) or despair (spiral down). Once people realize you’re sorry, they’ll let you off the hook. If they do not, that’s not their job (to make you more miserable), so you just give them to Jesus, because once you repent, you’re clean. Believe God to work it all together for good. If you despair, the enemy wins.
3) The length of time the process can take. Hebrews 12:11a. “Later on” can sure feel late. Heb. 12:12-13a. “Strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees…make level your paths.” Jesus comes to redeem and restore. Full redemption. If the enemy gets you to say, “I’m done,” he’s won. The word “weak” can be translated “paralyzed,” and sometimes that’s how we feel, but Jesus says, “Rise up and walk with me through this.” We can know Him through times like these.
Job 4:3-5. Sometimes trouble comes to us after we’ve helped others, but then we can’t deal with our own trouble. When you think you’ve had it all together, it’s hard to handle trouble and consequences.
4) The embarrassment of some of the consequences. When you have a secret area out of control, God will whisper, “I’m warning you. This is about to get ugly.” Persistent secret sin will become public consequence, eventually. It’s His mercy, because it forces us to change.
How to get through this victoriously? Deal with it! Trust God to work through it with you.
1) Don’t take it lightly. Take it seriously. Hebrews 12:5a. Fear God. That fear is a good, healthy respect. God permits, persists, or ordains all things. Matthew 5:29-30. This is a radical physical expression used to convey a spiritual truth. Sometimes something in our life just has to GO! It’s a radical process of radical decisions. Determine that it’s not for you, and cut it off!
2) Others are affected by our consequences. It’s difficult for those we love, for those who love us. We’ll have either one of two reactions. We’ll either go through denial (“Let’s just not talk about it”) or despair (spiral down). Once people realize you’re sorry, they’ll let you off the hook. If they do not, that’s not their job (to make you more miserable), so you just give them to Jesus, because once you repent, you’re clean. Believe God to work it all together for good. If you despair, the enemy wins.
3) The length of time the process can take. Hebrews 12:11a. “Later on” can sure feel late. Heb. 12:12-13a. “Strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees…make level your paths.” Jesus comes to redeem and restore. Full redemption. If the enemy gets you to say, “I’m done,” he’s won. The word “weak” can be translated “paralyzed,” and sometimes that’s how we feel, but Jesus says, “Rise up and walk with me through this.” We can know Him through times like these.
Job 4:3-5. Sometimes trouble comes to us after we’ve helped others, but then we can’t deal with our own trouble. When you think you’ve had it all together, it’s hard to handle trouble and consequences.
4) The embarrassment of some of the consequences. When you have a secret area out of control, God will whisper, “I’m warning you. This is about to get ugly.” Persistent secret sin will become public consequence, eventually. It’s His mercy, because it forces us to change.
How to get through this victoriously? Deal with it! Trust God to work through it with you.
1) Don’t take it lightly. Take it seriously. Hebrews 12:5a. Fear God. That fear is a good, healthy respect. God permits, persists, or ordains all things. Matthew 5:29-30. This is a radical physical expression used to convey a spiritual truth. Sometimes something in our life just has to GO! It’s a radical process of radical decisions. Determine that it’s not for you, and cut it off!
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