DAY 40 DON’T STOP NOW
40 days of prayer is not over, it’s just the beginning. The heading in my bible from the following verses says; “The Goal of Life”. How fitting to remember.
Philippians 3:12-14
Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
I wish we could say that we finally “get” it… that we can actually obtain everything in Gods word, everything that God has for us. But that will not happen as long as we are on this planet. What is it that we are to do then? Should we just punch our salvation ticket and sit back and wait for Jesus or wait until we die? NO! Be devoted to Gods Word, fellowship with other believers, breaking bread together and praying with and for each other. Thats what the first church did.
Acts 2:42
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Acts 2:46-47
Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Do not allow yourself to get caught up in the past (good or bad). It’s great to remember what God has done, knowing He is doing a new thing. It is also ok to remember the bad, when you fell or struggled. But don't live there. You are forgiven. Reach for everything that God has for you. If you feel over whelmed with what is going on slow down, go to the basics. Remember your first love! Jesus, is the Example
Hebrews 12:1-3
Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
So our 40 days prayer focus is over. I challenge you to keep going. Don’t stop. Shut off the technology, the news and noise of the world. Pandemics, racism and politics… put it all aside, let God handle it. Stay focused on Gods plan… Set aside time to engage with our Heavenly Father.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Prayed for you all this morning!
Numbers 6:24-26
The Lord bless you, and keep you; The Lord make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.’
May your Faith be seen and God be glorified in ALL you do!
In Jesus name amen!
Much love and blessings,
Pastor Scott
DAY 39 SECURITY IN THE ONE WE PRAISE
Psalms 91:1-4
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!” For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper And from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark.
Gods word added to our prayer brings great power! Where do you seek shelter? Or in what do you seek shelter? Do you seek the companionship of another person? Do you find security in your husband, wife, children, grand children, mom, dad, grand parents? Maybe you have a great roof over your head? Or your dream car or truck? Insurance policy? What happens if any of those get taken away? What then?
This Psalm is attributed to Moses and really shows his strength and resolve. This is the secret of his his courage and strength. Have you ever studied the life of Moses? He was an amazing man who walked an incredible journey with God. It seems that he was not afraid of anyone or anything. He stood up to and confronted the most powerful government on the planet, without an army behind him. He spoke with confidence, he set the agenda and told them when it would take place. He spoke with such authority you would think He had an army, the reality is that he had an invisible one.
Every time he spoke what God told him, it became a decree. How did Moses humble the proudest ruler with the most amazingly trained army, part the Red Sea, while guiding 3 million Jews through the desert? Moses truly understood what it meant to live in the shelter of the Most High, and he lived there. Praying the promises of Gods word is powerful.
If we will be determined to make God our soul refuge, we can stand strong through anything. Gods word is powerful, it tells us how to have a relationship with Jesus taking away the yolk of the devil. Because of what Jesus did on the cross, our old man, that is our sin nature is still nailed to the cross. We are a new creation in Christ, our lives change to look like Christ.
It’s in the daily process of surrender that we grow and are grafted into the family of God and can hide ourselves under the protective shadow of the Almighty. He watches over us, protects us, bringing shelter and security. He will protect our families, our homes and our lives, all because of the blood of Jesus. We can cry out to Him and He will take care of the issue.
The people and things I listed above are blessings if we have them, but are only temporary. Only God will be the consistent powerful shelter we can rely on. Let your heart cry to God be: "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!”
Take confidence in the fact that if God is for us… who can be against us?
Prayed for you all this morning!
Have a great day!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 38 Spiritual warfare: part 2
Gods word added to our prayer brings great power! As we were reminded yesterday, we are in a spiritual battle. But we fight from victory because of what Jesus did for us on the cross. We cannot allow ourselves to get complacent in our daily walk with the Lord. Thinking that we just successfully battled through a spiritual attack and now we have it easy. The attacks are on going and at times we become weary. Its in these weary times we must first remember what Paul said in Galatians:
Galatians 6:9
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
The NKJV says; “don't become weary”… thats hard! But I exhort you, do not lose heart, do not become weary. A few weeks ago I told you that I was ready to throw the towel in. I was weary, this scripture came to mind… I also saw a great statement…I think on Facebook. It said, “I threw the towel in and God threw it back and said, “wipe your face boy, your almost done”…
If we really think about warfare, its unrelenting. No matter what war you look at, people lost their lives battling what they perceived as evil, to bring justice and peace to people or situations. In earlier wars there was more hand to hand combat, being in the trenches, going nose to nose or toes to toes with another human being.
As the Apostle Paul wrote this, he used the imagery of a soldier of his time, a Roman soldier. But then he makes the spiritual connection, how the battles we face as believers really are spiritual, not physical. We really should memorize this passage and get up everyday with this passage in mind, getting ourselves ready for war. The armor of God really is about us understanding who we are in Christ.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,So, powerful! First, be strong in the Lord!
Not your power or strength, but HIS power and MIGHT! Look to God and His promises for your strength, again battling knowing that God is ALL powerful and has your back. Putting on the armor allows us to stand firm even in the battle.
The Belt of Truth- Satan is the father of lies. Here is exhortation to put on truth, sanctifying us and delivering us from falsehoods, by living a life of truth we are a witness to all who would watch us.
The Breastplate of Righteousness- This protects the vital organs of the warrior. This is not righteousness accomplished by men, rather the righteousness of Jesus Christ, given to us by God and received by us through faith, this actually is a guard to our heart against the accuser, satan. The Breastplate of righteousness is applied when we are in right standing with the Lord and protects our innermost being.
Proper foot wear- You cannot go into battle barefoot. The Devil puts dangerous obstacles in our path. This insinuates that we are walking into the devils territory, understanding that there will indeed be traps, but we have the message of hope, Gods grace extended, we walk forward with the intent of winning souls.
The Shield of Faith- This makes the doubt of the devil ineffective. It helps us stand boldly with our eyes on God and looking forward. The shield catches the darts and arrows of the devil, the shield can be used aggressively as a weapon as well.
The Helmet of Salvation- This protects a very critical part of the body, if our brain is damaged… we cannot fight. We must keep clear minded, it is in our thought life that battles are won or lost. Protecting our mind pushes away false doctrine and holds temptation in check. Without the covering, the helmet of salvation, we would not be able to discern between the Spirit of truth or deception.
The Sword of the Spirit- The word of God! Although, I believe that every part of the armor can be used defensively, but the sword is the only true defensive weapon listed. This truly speaks to the power of Gods word. Remember as we have already addressed, Jesus was tempted in the desert by the devil and Jesus refuted the temptation with Gods word. Gods words are always our best answer and defense in times of temptation and trial. The cool thing is that Gods word and that same authority ascribed to it is available to us, it is at our finger tips.
Vs 18 ties it ALL together, PRAYER ! The armor is put on and solidified by prayer. You must not and cannot neglect your prayer time. In must be a priority. Without it, our fights and battles against evil, will be futile. We have access to the Full Armor of God, truth, righteousness, the gospel, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer, these are tools that God has given us to win spiritual battles, to live in victory, overcoming all the attacks that Satan throws at us as well as the temptations.
Romans 8:37; "But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us”.
1 Corinthians 15:57; "but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ”.
Zechariah 4:6b; ...‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.
Gods word added to our prayer brings great power!
Prayed for you all this morning!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 37 SPIRITUAL WARFARE
There is a battle raging around us that we cannot see. But we can feel the effects of it daily, sometimes hourly or minute by minute. Sometimes though, we forget that the battle is raging. The attacks we face are not always fierce and confrontational. Sometimes they are quiet and subtle, Satan simply needs to distract us from God and His will for our lives. Satan wants to steal, kill and destroy at any cost.
1 Peter 5:8-9
Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world.
You must remember that you are not alone, 1) God is with us and 2) There are believers around the world that face the same warfare you do. As we engage in the world around us as genuine believers, the devil ramps up his rhetoric. Gods word tells us about the schemes of the devil, that we are to stay alert and close to the Lord. We have Gods word to arm ourselves with, to fight against the lies of the enemy.
He gave us he Holy Spirit to equip us, strengthen us, and give us discernment to stay strong in the battle of spiritual warfare. That is how we can stay alert. God wants us to spend time in His word, worshipping and doing everything we can to know Him more. The deeper we get into Gods word, the easier it is for us see what is truth and what is false, that makes us more confident as we battle in the name of Jesus, who never leaves us alone in this dark world. He is fighting with and for us at all times. We have been talking about praying Gods word, reciting His promises back to him, praying with faith and confidence. Gods word is a powerful weapon against the Devil. God knows what we are going through, builds our faith and trust in himself. Staying in the word of God daily, guards our heart, focuses our minds on him, and wins the battle.
James 4:7
Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.
1 John 4:4
You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.
2 Corinthians 10:3-4
For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,
Isaiah 54:17
“No weapon that is formed against you will prosper; And every tongue that accuses you in judgment you will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, And their vindication is from Me,” declares the Lord.
God is on our side. We just need to surrender to him. When temptation comes, resist it. Power up! Greater is He who is in us, then He who is in the world! Stay close to God… abide in Him, day by day and moment by moment! Hold EVERYTHING to Gods word.
No weapon formed against you shall prosper.
Prayed for you all today!
Much love and blessings! Pastor Scott
DAY 36 SACRIFICE OF PRAISE
Hebrews 13:15
Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.
Sacrifice: an act of slaughtering an animal or person or surrendering a possession as an offering to God or to a divine or supernatural figure.
Praise: to glorify or praise something or someone, to glorify God…
If we think of sacrificing something, we think of it costing us something. But to praise, well, that seems joyful, something we do when we have a grateful heart. But as we look at Gods word we see that Praise and Sacrifice are indeed connected. If we praise someone or something it does not cost us anything, other than breath. Think about it, when our kids do something well, we praise them. When our dog responds to commands, we say “Good girl”, this is praise.
Praise should be a natural response when something benefits us, and the funny thing is we feel generous because we praise someone. We tend to praise God the same way. It’s easy to praise Him when, he has blessed us, protected us and provided for us, and we feel, so generous when we do that. Sunday mornings we sing to him, worshipping and talking about how good God is, which is awesome and worth it.
But did it cost you anything? Was it a sacrifice?
What about the times when the prayer wasn’t answered the way we thought it should be? A test for cancer came back positive. Or your spouse serves you with divorce papers? One of your kids or grand kids walks away from God and gets caught up with the wrong crowd? Maybe the bank is done waiting for payment and you are evicted? It’s in these times that God “Seems” far away and praise is not exactly on the top of our minds or heart. We would even join with King David in shaking our fist at God asking why he has forsaken us.
This is when a sacrifice of praise comes in. A personal sacrifice, we must willfully lay it all on the altar before God, even though we do not understand. It’s knowing that God is in control even when things are hectic and the storm is raging.
Casting Crowns sings a great song, I Will Praise You In The Storm and the chorus says it all. "And I’ll praise You in this storm And I will lift my hands For You are who You are No matter where I am And every tear I’ve cried You hold in Your handYou never left my side And though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm"
God can be trusted, He is faithful.
Psalms 135:1-3
Praise the Lord! Praise the name of the Lord; Praise Him, O servants of the Lord, You who stand in the house of the Lord, In the courts of the house of our God! Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good; Sing praises to His name, for it is lovely.
Nahum 1:7
The Lord is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble, And He knows those who take refuge in Him.
If and when we can choose to praise Him in the midst of the storm and in-spite of those storms, our faith grows, we become stronger.
Our mind and heart must be set; Job 13:15 (NIV, Jesus Bible) Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely defend my ways to his face.
Our opening verse say’s; "let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God”. As we praise God it is not something we do based on our perspective of God’s “job performance”. How arrogant of us to think that we can somehow reward God for him blessing us? Many people praise God with their lips only.
Isaiah 29:13
"Then the Lord said, “Because this people draw near with their words And honor Me with their lip service, But they remove their hearts far from Me…"
True heart felt praise is ongoing, regardless of our circumstances. We must make a habit of worshipping God in the good times and bad times.
Acts 16:23-25
When they had struck them with many blows, they threw them into prison, commanding the jailer to guard them securely; and he, having received such a command, threw them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them;
In James 4 it says that God opposes us in our pride and gives grace to us when we are humble, so if we can humble ourselves before the Lord He will lift us up. If we are to offer a “sacrifice of praise”, it only comes from a humble and broken heart that has been purified by the fire of the Holy Spirit. That sacrifice comes from choosing to honor God in spite of any pain we are experiencing. My own wife's words echo in my head when she was diagnosed with breast cancer; “May my faith be seen and may God be glorified through this”.
Psalms 51:15-17
O Lord, open my lips, That my mouth may declare Your praise. For You do not delight in sacrifice, otherwise I would give it; You are not pleased with burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.
I challenge you to praise him in the good times and bad. Praise Him in the storm…
Prayed for you all this morning!
Much love and blessings!
Pastor Scott
DAY 35 QUIET TIME
Philippians 4:8-9
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
When we stop and truly pray, can we quiet our minds? Can we think about pure things? We may start out well intentioned, but the longer we pray, we tend to lose focus. Why? There are 7 1/4 Billion cellphones active on planet earth, with over 300 million currently active in the USA. 120 million personal computers were sold in 2017, 19 million MACS. 1.4 Billion homes have at least 1 TV in them. In 2014 - 840 million people accessed a Tablet of some sort. Social media? Over a 100 Million instagram users and 2.27 Billion Facebook users. Every where we go, you will find someone with their head down and focused on their phone, walk into a restaurant or into someones home and you will find a television on.
We are constantly engaging in technology. There are some great uses for technology and it can be a powerful tool for ministry, after all I am typing this blog on my MAC laptop. But, we need to shut it down and actually have conversations with people and quiet our minds so we can actually pray. In my uneducated psychological opinion, I feel that part of the rise in ADD and ADHD is due to technology. Our brains become over stimulated. We get instant answers and think that we can require God to answer our prayers the same way. As Christians, we are in desperate need of a daily quiet time. A time when we shut everything off and focus on God. We need to find a secluded place, at home preferably. With out distractions, technology, phone, traffic, even from family members, true silence (which makes us uncomfortable).
This is an appointment that should be set between you and God. Reading Gods word, meditating on it and having a conversation with God (that means listening to Him too). All of us need a time of quiet, even Jesus did.
Matthew 26:36
Then Jesus *came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and *said to His disciples, “Sit here while I go over there and pray.”
Mark 1:35
In the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went away to a secluded place, and was praying there.
Luke 5:16
But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.
It doesn’t matter how long, but it should be focused and long enough to pray and to meditate on anything that the Holy Spirit brings to mind. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you, this is a very rewarding time with our Heavenly Father. We must get the busyness of our lives cleaned up. Opening time to be in His presence. As you do this though, don't get caught up in what a large portion of our society has. That is the thought of meditation from a Eastern religion perspective, “clearing your mind” by concentrating on repetitious chants, words or certain sounds repeatedly. If we do that we are actually opening the door for the devils influence. As we slow down, we should ALWAYS use scripture as our point of mediation.
I repeat: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.
If you want the peace of God and want to please Him, fill your mind with scripture. As we have quiet time with the Lord, it should actually be a time of transformation by the renewing of our minds, not through “emptying” them, as the world would tell you.
Romans 12:2
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
I challenge you to shut down the technology and set a specific time each day to spend in prayer and meditation.
Prayed for you all this morning!
Have a great day!
Much love and Blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 34 PRAYING FOR OUR LEADERS
1 Timothy 2:1-4
First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.`
The very concept of praying for our leaders is NOT something that started with civilized nations, nor did it start with “The National Day Of Prayer” in the United States… the Bible gives us direction to pray for our leaders, at ALL levels. World, nation, both secular and religious...God even gave instructions to the Israelites that were captive to pray for Babylon in:
Jeremiah 29:7
Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare.’
And even though we may struggle with what is happening in our country today, political divisiveness, pure evil being made law, etc … this is a hard scripture… Paul reminds us that God is in control:
Romans 13:1
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.
Paul also requested prayer;
Ephesians 6:18-19
With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints, and pray on my behalf, that utterance may be given to me in the opening of my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel”
As we have been engaging in 40 days of prayer… we must realize HOW important prayer is. The fact that the Bible mentions it increases the importance. Especially in praying for those in authority over us. Who is in authority? Government officials… President and Vice President, Congress, Senate, Judges, governors, mayors, counsel members, Pastors, church elders, school boards, principals, our employers… and… the list could go on and on. We are not to pray for our leaders just because we are commanded too. But to pray because really, it just makes sense. Those who lead us, affect the conditions of our lives and impact our families, churches, jobs, city and country! If leaders are living godly lives and making godly choices, it makes it easier on all of us, to do what 1 Timothy 2:2 says: “live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness”… but,
When evil men are in authority over us. Our prayers are needed just as much. William Tyndale’s last words as he was being burned at the stake were: “Lord, open the King of Englands eyes”! You see, we don't pray for our leaders merely for our own benefit, we pray for their benefit, that God strengthens them. Leadership is a trying and tiring task.
James 3:1
Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.
Leaders at every level carry a degree of responsibility. They are the target of criticism and the people that are relied on in all crisis’s. So as we pray for our leaders, lets remember that as they lead, they are serving and that in itself takes a toll. We pray for them with a humble heart recognizing the greatness of their task, being grateful for their willingness to lead. We pray also for their families and the pressure that is on them. So then, how do we pray for our leaders? Pray for their salvation! Rather or not they are Christians we should pray that God will guide them as they guide us. Pray that they are wise and discerning and surrounded by people who have strength where they are weak, pray for strong advisors. Acknowledging that no one is in authority over us that God did not allow, that His will be done, in and through them. Pray for their protection. When praying for our pastors, ministry leaders or spiritual leaders, we pray for strength in the midst of the Spiritual warfare. Pray that they be encouraged. Pray for their families who often feel scrutinized as they bear an extra load as well. I encourage you to make it part of your daily prayer routine.
Taking our leaders before the Lord, asking him to move on their hearts, surrounding them with support, using their leadership to benefit those who surround them…
Prayed for you all this morning!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 33 CONFIDENCE IN PRAYER
The apostle Paul was relying on the Holy Spirit for “EVERYTHING”. Knowing that his human understanding could only take him so far. He knew Gods word to be true and that God had amazing things planed for HIS creation, namely us. He quoted Isaiah with this in mind in;
1 Corinthians 2:9
…but just as it is written, “Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, And which have not entered the heart of man, All that God has prepared for those who love Him.”
He also addressed the Philippians about Gods work in and through us. That God will complete what He has started.
Philippians 1:6
For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
We gain strength when we rely on the Holy Spirit. We studied this while reading about Gods promises on Sunday mornings in our study on the Book of John. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to us.
John 14:16
I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to help us, guide us and reveal things to us that the world will not see or understand, we get a glimpse of what is at stake with eternity. Who knows what God is really going to do or how he will accomplish His will? The Holy Spirit. As we pray, we must pray with confidence that God, the author and creator of everything we know and experience is acting on our behalf. We also pray in anticipation of a new Heaven and Earth. (Isaiah 64:4, Isaiah 65:17)
We pray with confidence because we can stand upon the rock! We have a firm foundation that will steady us. Don’t allow the enemy to dissuade you. We serve a mighty God! He is our hope, He is our Rock, our salvation, our stronghold, strength and refuge, we can indeed trust in Him all times. Do not be afraid to pour out your heart to him.
Psalms 62:5-8
My soul, wait in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him.He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be shaken. On God my salvation and my glory rest; The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God. Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.
Prayed for you all this morning!
Have a great day!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 32 OLD AND NEW - THE WHOLE COUNSEL
Deuteronomy 4:5-8
“See, I have taught you statutes and judgments just as the Lord my God commanded me, that you should do thus in the land where you are entering to possess it. So keep and do them, for that is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him? Or what great nation is there that has statutes and judgments as righteous as this whole law which I am setting before you today?
When is the last time you read the book of Deuteronomy? We must remember that there is so much we can glean from the Old Testament. We truly need the Whole Counsel of Gods word.
Acts 20:27 For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.
Deuteronomy is the 5th book of the Torah and the 5th book in the Bibles Old Testament. Translated from the Greek, Deuteronomy means “second law”. This was a farewell address from Moses to the Israelites before they finally crossed into the promised land. Basically, Moses was retelling Gods laws. So what can we glean from this passage?
Deuteronomy 4:7
For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him?
The Israelites were commanded to obey Gods commands, His words, so not only that they may live, but that they would be a light to other nations.
God says in; Isaiah 49:6
“It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant To raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved ones of Israel; I will also make You a light of the nations So that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
We are so blessed to have ALL of Gods word to read, study, meditate on and apply. It guides us and directs us in every aspect of our lives. Because of Jesus we have an amazing hope that lasts for eternity.
Made Alive in Christ
Ephesians 2:1-5
And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)...
We are made ALIVE in Christ, because of Christ! What would happen to our world, our nation, our cities and our families, if we would ALL humble ourselves seeking Gods direction and favor? If we actually obeyed His commands? We are called to do the same thing the Israelites were, to be salt and light.
Matthew 5:13-15
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
As we close out the last of our 40 days of prayer over the next few days, we will be doing two things, praying for our nation, and that we engage with our faith in our families and in our community. The second thing we will do as we pray is thank God for all that he is doing and has done.
Look to Gods Word, obey it and stand strong. Our hope is in the Lord. Not in any man or law passed by a man. Jesus alone has the ability to save the lost in this wicked and seemingly dark world we live in. At one time we didn't have hope, but Jesus…and because of him, now we are salt and light.
Praise God for what he has done in and through your life and ask Him to use you even more! We have HOPE! We have the WHOLE COUNSEL OF GODS WORD! We are so blessed!
Prayed for you all this morning!
Much love! Pastor Scott
DAY 31 MATURITY
1 Corinthians 13:11
When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.
I heard a message years ago and the pastor was doing a series on maturity, when he got to the message for the men, he literally yelled at them at one point: “Men, you need to grow up! You need to act like a man”! Now, I don’t agree with the tactics of that pastor, but I will always remember it. He had a great point. We have a society that tends to live in the glory days of the past, we have reality shows that encourage drama from High school or college reunions. Then there is Big Brother, Survivor and the goofiness of The Bachelor and Bachelorette shows. The pastor who was yelling at the men, was pointing out that spiritually they were being immature which impacted the rest of their lives physically and that they were making poor decisions because of their poor spiritual growth. When he addressed the women, he handled it gently and His wife did a portion of the teaching pointing to Titus 2 women and Proverbs 31 as model. As Christians, we are to be follower of Christs teachings and actions.
Ephesians 4:14-15
As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ...
We cannot just surrender our lives to the Lord and then continue on with the way we have always lived life. I know men and women in their senior years that have been Christians the majority of their lives, but yet they are still infants in their faith. We must grow and mature in every aspect of our lives. I saw a news story on Adult Boredom a couple years ago. Not sure where they got all of their information from, but the following is what was on the screen.
Study on adult boredom:
The average adult has 131 days of boredom
60% of adults think their lives are too grown up
73% miss aspects of their childhood
39% would rather do kid activities, than something more mature
1-in-5 adults would pick a sleep over with friends than see a movie
In all honesty, my reaction was, “Wah! Grow up you big babies! Adulting is hard… get over it”! What part of our lives are too grown up? The part where we contribute to society and have to go to work? Maybe the part where we are responsible adults? Some of my childhood memories are awesome! Riding my bike, building forts, playing with Hot Wheels and army men, oh and GI Joe! But how goofy would it be for me to go outside and play army man in the back yard? Pew… Pew… Kaboom!!!! And the sleep over thing? Thats just weird. I don't know any of my friends that wouldn’t look at me sideways and possibly slap me if I said; "You want to have a sleep over”?
Now, as a grandpa I get to play with my girls, we get on the floor and play, making coffee, making dinner, build forts, play hot wheels and legos… but then, I may change a diaper, feed them, put them down for bed or a nap (you know the boring adult things).
If you are feeling bored you should ramp up your spiritual maturity. Dig into the Word of God. If you engage in your faith the way the Bible tells you to, I guarantee you will not be bored!
James 1:2-4
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
We must be in a constant state of learning. As we age physically we gain knowledge from our experiences. We naturally mature (or we should) and as we mature we should then engage at a higher level in all areas. As a believer we gain experience by engaging our faith in everyday life stuff. We gain spiritual strength and knowledge for this. Let the the days of infancy go, let the “good ole” days and the high school or college days go. Live for Christ today as a maturing believer and do everything you can to help others do the same.
Philippians 3:12-14 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
I have not obtained it and am far from perfect! I am as Paul said the “chiefest of sinners”. However, I am striving heavenward! I am praying that the Holy Spirit draws you in and strengthens you in your walk.
As you pray, ask God to help you desire the meat of His word and that you are able to let the childish things go.
Hold steady, eyes on God!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 30 WORTH IN GODS EYES
Have you ever lost anything and gone into search mode? Wedding ring, cellphone, dog? How about one of your kids while your at the store or an amusement park? You panic and go into search mode, nothing else matters. You investigate and examine, asking questions to any and everyone and you don't stop until you have found what you lost. And how did you feel once you found it? The reason we panic or go on search mode is because we ascribe value to what we have lost. I have great news for you! God values you! Jesus even used a lost sheep as an example of our individual value.
Luke 15:4-7 4
“What man among you, if he has a hundred sheep and has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open pasture and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
God made us in His image,
Genesis1:26 "Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness”…
So we are fearfully and wonderfully made. God is searching for us. God has plans for our lives if we will surrender and allow His will to direct us. We have done none of this, God did it all. It is by grace alone through faith alone that we are saved. Creation and a plan to restore us after sin entered into the world… Gods plan! Jesus laid it all down, paid the price for ALL our sin, past present and future. He knows you and I, and loves us anyway!
Psalms 139:1-3
O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; You understand my thought from afar. You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are intimately acquainted with all my ways.
We are often deceived because our self worth is based on what others say to us or how they react to us. We must remember that God created us, and values us enough to come looking for us and He has a plan for our lives. We just need to slow down and seek Him. So as you pray today, remember that, God loves you, values you and God knows you! Spend some time thanking Him today!
Prayed for you all this morning!
Have a great day!
DAY 29 LIVING HEALTHY
Genesis 1:29 Then God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you;
1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
We live in the most amazing country in the world. We have access to food, water, exercise, doctors and hospitals. We are truly blessed, or are we? Self reflection… how good are our eating and exercising habits? Gluttony is our most tolerated and in all honesty the most abused sin in America. Have you ever noticed that on ingredients listed on a food product it says “suggested” servings. Thats silly! How many of us really pay attention to serving sizes and portions?
Proverbs 3:1-2 My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments; For length of days and years of life And peace they will add to you.
Proverbs 3:8 It will be healing to your body And refreshment to your bones.
Is it really a big deal? I would say so, I would also say that its a struggle for me as well. Who wants to eat a 6oz filet when you can have a 26oz porterhouse? Gluttony seems to be a sin that Christians like to ignore. Smoking, drinking, are seen as worse for some reason, even labeled as an addiction. Many Christians that would abstain from smoking or drinking alcohol don't have a problem bellying up to the dinner table and gorging themselves.
Proverbs 23:20-21 Do not be with heavy drinkers of wine, Or with gluttonous eaters of meat;For the heavy drinker and the glutton will come to poverty, And drowsiness will clothe one with rags.
OUCH! I know, you are wondering why I would choose gluttony as a subject to pray over? Our physical appetites are a great precursor of what the rest of our lives are about. If we cannot control our eating habits, we will most likely struggle with other habits, with our minds (lust, covetousness, and anger) out of our mouths as we gossip or enter into verbal strife. We must not let our appetites control our actions, we are to control appetites. Holding the flesh in check, holding every thought captive as unto the Lord. If we are to be a Spirit filled believer, we must say “no” to anything of excess, not just food.
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
God has blessed us in so many ways, we have a HUGE selection of pleasurable foods that are delicious and nutritious. We can and should honor God by respectfully eating the appropriate servings with a thankful heart. God is calling us to be in control of our appetites, not to let them control us. What is our focus? Love and feed the flesh? Or as it should be…The two greatest commands…loving God and loving people…
Luke 10:27 “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.”
Do you love Him? Don't just tell him, show Him that you love Him.
Prayed for you all today!
Much love and prayer, Pastor Scott
DAY 28 PRAYING THE PROMISES OF GODS WORD
As we pray we need to be cognizant of the promises we read in Gods word, the promises Jesus gave to His disciples. Praying scripture back to God is an amazing thing.
John 14:2 Jesus, promised to prepare a place for us when He returns.
John 14:12 Jesus promised that we would do even greater works than He had done.
John 14:16 Jesus promised to send the "Holy Spirit”, to comfort and counsel them, The Holy Spirit is our helper.
In John 14:19-26 we see 4 more promises, the promise of a supernatural life, supernatural knowledge, supernatural presence, and supernatural revelation. Some say there are as many as 8000 promises in the Bible that God made to us. We read a great reminder that Gods promises do not fail from Joshua...
Joshua 23:14 “Now behold, today I am going the way of all the earth, and you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one word of all the good words which the Lord your God spoke concerning you has failed; all have been fulfilled for you, not one of them has failed.
There is amazing power in praying scripture that builds and strengthens our faith. We can count on it. Jesus even used it when the Devil tempted him in Matthew 4:1-11. These temptations come in three patterns that we all struggle with, or have struggled with.
The first temptation is lust of the flesh, Jesus just fasted 40 days. He's hungry. The devil tempts him to turn the stones into bread, Jesus responded with Deuteronomy 8:3 “…man does not live by bread alone”.
The second temptation was the pride of life, and the devil quoted scripture Psalm 91:11-12, the angels will take care of Him... to which Jesus replies using Deuteronomy 6:16 telling him it would be wrong for Him to abuse His powers.
Then the third temptation has to do with the lust of the eyes, satan offers Jesus all the kingdoms he has been given, if Jesus would just bow down to him. Jesus’ response? Deuteronomy 6:13, “you shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only”!
Gods word, Gods promises used effectively when temptation hits. If we use scripture as we pray, we are acknowledging that we have read Gods word and understand it and Gods intentions for our daily lives. There is something powerful and reassuring about praying the very words of God back to him that keeps our minds focused. It helps us know God will be pleased. However, I caution you don't just grab and go… stay with in the context of scripture.
I saw a great meme on FaceBook. It said; "I can do ALL things when I take scripture out of context…” Name, claim, command and demand…NOT the way to talk with God. So lets start there first… if we are to pray scripture, make sure you study the context of that scripture and its true application.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
I think this is one of the most abused scriptures from the Bible. It has nothing to do with touchdowns, dunking basketballs, winning marathon races or closing an amazing business deal. The Apostle Paul is awaiting trial and is under house arrest, he knows he may be put to death for preaching about the resurrection of Jesus. Paul could have easily sat in the corner and wallowed in his self pity. But he chose to use this circumstance to encourage the young church in Philipi.
He is a living example of being able to endure in any of the storms or life events that happen. The highs and lows of his journey with all of the ups and downs were doable because he had his eyes fixed on Jesus. His hope was in the Lord at all times. That is where he drew his strength from. He is living life as a genuine Spirit filled believer, he had God given supernatural strength to endure all things, in all seasons and situations.
As do we!
See how easy it was to put that scripture in its proper perspective? Don’t just point at a scripture and pray it, you may get yourself into trouble. Take time to read Gods word, study it and apply it to your daily life, let scripture be your first prayer response when crisis happens. If we have been studying Gods word, it comes to mind as the Holy Spirit works in and through us. There are many times I go to prayer, and I do not know what or how to pray. So look at what we should rely on.
Romans 8:26 In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;
Rely on the Holy Spirit as you pray, rely on the Holy Spirit when you have no idea, of how to pray…
Here are a few more promises from Gods word:
Exodus 14:14 The Lord will fight for you; you only need to be still.
Exodus 20:12 Honor your father and mother so that you may live long an the land of the LORD you God is giving you.
Isaiah 40:29 He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously, to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
James 4:7 Submit yourselves then to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.
Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Proverbs 22:6 train up a child in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it.
We must be a Godly influence in our families, businesses and community. It starts with us being genuine Spirit filled believers that know and understand Gods word and how to apply it, not just to our daily lives, but in our daily prayer life! We must press in and pray harder then ever…
Ephesians 5:16...making the most of your time, because the days are evil.
Love you all!
Prayed for you this morning!
Pastor Scott
DAY 27 SINS OF OMISSION AND COMMISSION
James 4:17 Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
The Hebrew meanings of the word sin, are trespass and transgression.
Trespass- meaning sin done out of rebellion.
Transgression- meaning to go astray.
The Greek says sin is the act or state of missing the mark, failure or error.
We all know what it means to commit a sin (commission), it means that we made a willful choice to do something against what Gods word and will is for us. Ever since the Garden of Eden and the fall of man, we have had to look at what is good and what is bad, and exercise our free will, choosing if we are going to do the good thing or the bad thing.
But, we often fail to recognize or think about sins of omission. Sins of omission are a failure to perform and action that God has put before us in His word. The Apostle Paul shows us the battle between both types of sin.
The Conflict of Two Natures
Romans 7:14-20
For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want to do, I agree with the Law, confessing that the Law is good. So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want. But if I am doing the very thing I do not want, I am no longer the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me.
How many times have I read this and identified with it? I know what I should do, but I “choose” to do the wrong thing… when we accepted Christ, we became new creatures in Christ and the battle began between the the new creature and the flesh. In Luke 10:30-37 we see Jesus tell the story of the Good Samaritan. A man had been beaten and left at the side of the road for dead. Two people passed him, a Levite and a Priest, both knew better but both failed to act. A third man came, a Good Samaritan, he stopped and showed compassion to the man. Jesus was teaching that we should do the same, help those in need. This clearly communicates to us that it is sinful to avoid doing good, just as sinful to pursue evil. In Matthew 25:31-46 Jesus defines sins of omission, as goats. Those who are sent away are those who saw others in need but did not provide for them. Hungry, thirsty, in need of clothing, sick, in jail, in desperate need, but did nothing. These are examples of sins of omission, they are not sinful acts done to them, but ignoring their needs when they could have done something. The Apostle Paul gives us direct instruction as to why we should engage, doing what is right and refraining from sins of omission.
Galatians 6:9-10 Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.
Romans 12:1-2 Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.
Basically, if we focus on doing the will of the father, we avoid sin and live productive fruitful lives that are pleasing to God. Pray that He opens your eyes to see the areas in your life that need addressed. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide and direct you and when you hear that small still voice, stop, pay attention and act accordingly. Life is so much more difficult if we do not!
Praying for you all!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
Additional reading: John 15:1-11 Jesus Is the Vine—Followers Are Branches
DAY 26 MORALITY VS. IMMORALITY
The Righteous and the Wicked Contrasted.
Psalms 1
How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,Which yields its fruit in its season And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, But they are like chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the Lord knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the wicked will perish.
Obviously your world view is going to is going to determine how you view morality and immorality. It is the lens in which you see actions that you and others take. A philosophy of life or how you see the world around you. Obviously I am writing from a Christian world view, a Biblical world view. The word Morality is not actually in the Bible, but morals and values are in it from cover to cover. The words wickedness and righteousness are used consistently throughout the Bible.
1 John 1:8-9 If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
The reality is that we call ourselves Christians and are genuine followers of Christ, then we cannot keep on practicing a sinful lifestyle. Morality and immorality have been in the headlines continuously. I can’t help but quote from The Princess Bride-"You keep using that word, I do not think it means what you think it means".
The dictionary defines Morality and immorality:
Morality- principals concerning the distinction between right and wrong, good or bad behavior. A particular system of values and principles of conduct, especially one held by a specified person or society.
Immorality- the state or quality of being immoral; wickedness.
I have already emphasized how important our personal relationship with God is… because it starts with us. If we want to see change in our families, friends, communities, country and world… it starts with us individually. So let me be blunt here. Are you walking in the counsel of the wicked? Immoral? Or are you delighting in Gods word and meditating on it day and night? What are you watching on TV? What social media sights do you engage in? What music are you listening to? Hows your language? What do you do in your spare time when no one is watching you?
Galatians 5:16-23
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Because our world is fixated on pride and is self-serving, we have rampant sexual sins running amuck, LGTBQ, Self identifying genders, Pornography, Abortion, Legalized drugs, Christians that drink more alcohol than some non-Christians I know, and the list goes on and on and on. The world is rejecting the creator and worshipping and abusing the creation.
Psalms 139:23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts;And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the everlasting way.
I exhort you… , and desperately beg you to pray, and ask God to search your heart and identify anything that is NOT of Him, and surrender that to Him. Then begin to fervently pray for those God has put in your sphere of influence. I know that as I have been boldly proclaiming truth, boldly reading and writing what scripture says, the spiritual warfare has increased. It will increase for you as well as you do the right thing. As you seek Godly counsel, as you strive to walk in the Spirit. Again, James 4 tells us to resist the devil and he WILL flee, humble yourself before the Lord and HE will lift you up!
Hold Steady, Eyes on God!
God please help us we cannot do it on our own, we desperately need you!
I am praying for you… I am praying for our country!
Love you all! Pastor Scott
DAY 25 PRESSING IN ON BEHALF OF OUR NATION
2 Chronicles 7:11-14 God’s Promise and Warning
Thus Solomon finished the house of the Lord and the king’s palace, and successfully completed all that he had planned on doing in the house of the Lord and in his palace. Then the Lord appeared to Solomon at night and said to him, “I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for Myself as a house of sacrifice. If I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or if I command the locust to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among My people, and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Keeping things in context here. This scripture is written as Solomon has finished constructing the temple. But there is an amazing life principle we can take from this. The Lord showed Solomon that when people were disobedient, He would punish their sin. He also made it very clear that if they would humbly seek forgiveness, he would restore them.
According to John we have the same access to restoration.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
There is great perspective to glean from this passage as we pray for our city and our nation. Gods people have responsibility for the society that we are engaged in. We cannot and must not shake our fist at the “sinfulness” all around us and let that be it. We must verbalize our prayer, “Lord, forgive us”. We are to be salt and light. We are to live as genuine followers of Christ.
Matthew 5:13-14“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden;
To say that our country is going down hill fast, is an understatement! As Christians we MUST rise up and take responsibility. We must first take responsibility for the sin in our own lives. Seeking Gods forgiveness as soon as that sin is revealed. Then take action against sinning again. Then we are responsible to bring healing and shine a light on the path that leads to Christ. All you have to do is turn on the TV or surf social media and you will see that we are in a difficult time in our nation and it is getting worse. As followers of Christ we have to ask the questions. Have we been missing it? Have we failed in our duties? Have we been a playing church and not been a praying church? Have we been fervently praying?
Lord forgive us and help us engage as a Spirit filled follower of Christ. May we truly be salt and light…let us be a people of prayer, praying rather than being arm chair quarter backing, judging and complaining “Christians”!
Let’s work together bringing hope and change to our families and communities.
We serve a mighty God and He will hear our cries.
Prayed for you all this morning.
Much love and blessings! Pastor Scott
DAY 24 ANSWERED PRAYER
We have been talking about prayer for 23 days. The question is, how are you doing? Is your prayer life getting better? Are you being more intentional? We pray and teach on prayer and talk about prayer… but what about answers to prayer? I think back over the years of all of the prayers that I have prayed or prayers that have been prayed over me.
Answers… sometimes we tend to forget the answers. As a child I was healed from a lung infection, diagnosed in Nebraska, they wanted me at Children’s Hospital in Denver ASAP. I remember praying with my aunt as we were actually watching a TV preacher. We packed up the car and headed to Denver. I got to Children’s with x-rays in hand and they admitted me. Checked me out, took new x-rays and said they didn't know what happened, but my lungs were clear. I know what happened, God heard our prayer and I was healed.
I also know my Great grandmother, grandmother and mom all prayed for me, that I would surrender to the Lord and be used by Him (that was 30 years of prayer). But none the less, answered. There are countless stories of answered prayer, diseases cured, exams passed, forgiveness granted, repentance sought, marriages restored, hungry families fed, bills paid and so many lives and souls saved because of people praying fervently. Personally I have experienced many answers to prayer. Biblically there is a great deal of evidence that God answers prayer. Scripture teaches us that prayer is answered.
James 5:16 states: The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective”.
Jesus taught in; John 15:7; "you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you”.
And 1 John 3:22 "and whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight".
Elijah prayed for fire from heaven in 2 Kings 1:12, prayer answered, Hezekiah prayed for deliverance in 2 Kings 19:19, and received it and the Apostles prayed for boldness in Acts 4:29 and boldly proclaimed the gospel, these are three examples. All three examples were written by eyewitnesses, thus they show clear evidence of answered prayer. Some people argue that the Bible doesn’t show scientific or observable evidence. To that I say, Science cannot prove or disapprove faith.
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
What really happens is that people go scientifically into research on prayer having already made up their mind. Scientifically, scripture has never been conclusively disproved. I know as we went through Pams breast cancer and AML diagnosis’, doctors seemed to lean heavily on science (which God did use). One doctor even sat by the bedside stating that God had nothing to do with what was going to cure her. To which I gently let him know that our faith in God was strong and that we would be keeping our faith and praying for everyone involved in her care, including him. He quickly back peddled, stating that faith in “something” is always important in the healing process. I also found it interesting that the majority of nurses that the cared for her, were Christians.
Every once in a while someone will conduct a scientific study on prayer, looking to see if it actually brought the desired result. The majority of these studies show that prayer has no effect and may possibly have a negative effect. What do we do with studies when the results show this? Are there any biblical reasons for prayers that go unanswered?
Psalms 66:18 If I regard wickedness in my heart, The Lord will not hear;
1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.
James 4:3a; "You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives..."
So, yes, there can be reasons for unanswered prayer; unconfessed sin and wrong motivations. How can we expect God to answer us if we have not surrendered all to him and are obedient to his commands?
Lack of faith can be another reason for unanswered prayer.
James 1:6-8 But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
Faith is a necessary condition for us to have a relationship with God.
Hebrews 11:6 And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.
Faith, then, is necessary for answered prayer. Last, critics of Christianity say: since Jesus told His disciples to “ask whatever they wish”, then ALL prayers should be answered. These criticisms ignore the context of what Jesus was saying. “If you remain in me and my words remain in you” is the prescription for praying within the will of God, so then genuine prayer that God answers focuses on fulfilling the will of God. The reality is that our will is secondary. Jesus even prayed in the garden before His crucifixion. “Not my will but your will be done”.
Back to James 4 and God opposing us in our pride… so humble yourself before the Lord and He will lift you up. If we pray His will in humility, what ever the answer may be, will be ok. God will always answer, yes, no, not yet and even maybe. But if we go into prayer demanding and commanding God? The answer will not be what we really want or need. I do not understand why Pam had to go through everything she did and why God decided her time on this planet was done. But I do know that God was glorified through it and I know if she did not go through it, I would not be the pastor of Foothills Calvary right now. Her faith was strenthened, my faith is stronger. In the middle of your storm, press in. Don’t stop seeking the Lord and don’t stop asking him to move on your behalf. Have faith! Seek His face and watch how He answers, how his hands move in and through your life. And then share the word, testify as to what God has done. Does God answer prayer? Ask any believer, and you will know the answer. Every changed life of every believer is proof positive that God answers prayer.
May your faith be seen and God be glorified though your prayer life!
Prayed for you all this morning!
Much Love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 23 OWER AND CONFIDENCE IN PRAYING SCRIPTURE
James 5:13-18
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed earnestly that it would not rain; and it did not rain on the land for three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth produced its fruit.
We know that Gods word is true and that we can count on it and the promises that God has given us. Scripture has amazing truth and if we would just take time to memorize it and use it in our prayer time we would see amazing results! Jesus quoted scripture as the devil tempted him. There is something reassuring about praying the very words of God back to him that keeps our minds focused and reassured. It helps us know God will be pleased with our prayer. I saw a great meme on FaceBook! It said; "I can do ALL things when I take scripture out of context…” So if we are to pray scripture, make sure you study the context of that scripture and its true application before you pray it.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
This verse has nothing to do with touchdowns, dunking basketballs, winning marathon races or closing an amazing business deal. The Apostle Paul is awaiting trial and is under house arrest, he knows he may be put to death for preaching about the resurrection of Jesus. So instead of sitting down in defeat and wallowing in self pity, he takes his suffering as a teaching moment for the young church at Philipi. He shows them that he can endure any and every circumstance. Highs and lows in his journey, ups and downs that happen daily, because his eyes are fixed on Jesus and that is where he draws his strength from. As a genuine Holy Spirit filled follower of Christ he has the supernatural strength to endure all seasons and situations. As do we! You probably could come up with a list of “popular” scriptures that are on a mug or T-shirt that have been taken out of context. There is power in praying scripture, but make sure to look at the context of the scripture that you are using. So lets look at a couple of scriptures that we can pray with confidence.
James 5:16 says; "...The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much”.
1 John 5:14-15 This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him.
The word effective, means we have to work, take action in praying to start with, constant, strenuous and intense. So in these two passages we see James and John saying that for prayers to be effective, they must be fervent, meaningful and in agreement of Gods will. One way to know that our prayers are the will of God is to pray specific verses that express what is on our heart. Remember scripture is NOT a magic chant that we mindlessly recite as if the words had all the power. When we see the power of prayer is when God responds to a servant heart. As we study Gods word we find scripture, commands and promises that express what is on our hearts, and we know that we are agreeing with God as we use them in prayer. There are 8000 promises in the Bible that we can read and pray. It is imperative that we are known as people of the Book and of prayer, that we read, meditate and memorize the Bible in such a way that it becomes part of us and naturally comes out in our prayer time. If we have been studying Gods word, it comes to mind as the Holy Spirit works in and through us. There are many times I go to prayer, and I do not know what or how to pray. First, We know the Holy Spirit is our helper.
Romans 8:26 In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;
Second, scripture can give us the words as well. Just look at the Psalms, hundreds of prayers, many of our thoughts already put into words. Jesus’ longest recorded prayer is the “High Priestly Prayer” found in John 17. Jesus and God are one, He is not telling God anything he didn't know, he was agreeing with the circumstances and ready to fulfill the will of the father. Jesus spent so much fervent time in communication with the Father that He knew His heart. We must do the same thing, spend time, using your words or those written in the Bible, the Key to effective prayer is when it comes from the heart and is genuinely seeking the will of God. What does a prayer from scripture look like?
Galatians 5:20 can be used as a prayer of consecration. “Father, today I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. This life I live today I will live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” In Jesus name Amen!
If we can pray this way then we take the heart of God which is the will of God and take ownership of it. Do not flop your bible open and randomly point at a scripture to pray. We cannot pray every scripture in the Bible as if it directly correlates to our life. If we did, we would have problems with verses like 1 Samuel 15:3 “Now go, attack the Amalekites and totally destroy all that belongs to them.”
I know Im repeating myself, but it’s important. We must always read Scripture within its context and learn more about God from the principles we find. After reading a Scripture and understanding the core of it, the life lesson, then God may use it to speak into our lives and our situation. The prayer then may turn to, Lord destroy the worldliness in my life and leave NO remnant. Or, we could pray, “Lord, just as You told the Israelites to totally destroy everything that represented the evil of the Amalekites, I want to tear down any false gods in my life and leave nothing but You. Purify my heart as they purified their land.” In Jesus name amen!
Effectual and fervent prayer can come from our hearts and from scripture. Our main goal is that we would be in tune with God through His word and constant conversations with Him. Jesus, even on the cross cried out the words from Psalm 22; “…my God My God why have you forsaken me”? The more Scripture we learn and personalize, the more our prayers will reflect the will of God and the more effective they will be.
Pray Hard, pray fervently!
Prayed for you all this morning!
Much love and blessings, Pastor Scott
DAY 22 TIME IS SHORT
We have been talking about praying according to Gods will and dialing in on praying for what is important. As a kid I was taught to pray in a grocery list fashion. Lord, please help Gpa Mac feel better, help Johnnys mom find a new job, and please help my dog Pete stop barking while I'm watching Star Trek, etc… God wants us to bring ALL of our requests to Him, He desires to have conversation with His creation. But, if time is short shouldn’t we think about what to pray for a little more before we add it to the list?
James 4:13-14 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit. Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away”.
What if you knew knew the exact moment that you would get to spend eternity in heaven? Would you change the way you are living? Would you change the way you are praying for your family and friends? Wouldn't you increase your prayer for them and ramp up the intensity of your prayers? We need to understand time and the fact that we don’t have all the time in the World to accomplish what ever we want and we especially don't want to waste time. Look at this scripture, and a biblical view on a Time for Everything…
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven—A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace. What profit is there to the worker from that in which he toils? I have seen the task which God has given the sons of men with which to occupy themselves. He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end.
These scriptures are heavy, we must see the importance of the time we have and that there is purpose in all that we do.
The unbelieving world understands time, shouldn’t we? A 60’s rock band “The Bryds” even wrote a song about it… Turn! Turn! Turn! (To everything There is a Season) To everything (turn, turn, turn) There is a season (turn, turn, turn) And a time to every purpose, under heaven A time to be born, a time to die a time to plant, a time to reap A time to kill, a time to heal A time to laugh, a time to weep.
This kind of makes it sound romantic, but in Solomons journey of finding happiness, he sees that life is unpredictable, routine, boring and even mundane. We will reap what we sow, we will build something new, and eventually it will fall apart. We have love and yet hate follows it. We pursue peace, but war will come. Futile, routine, boring, mundane.
Someone said, that the problem with life is that it is “so daily”. Solomon says the same thing, “there has to be more than just this”! But then he gives us a glimmer of hope in verse 11.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 He has made everything appropriate in its time. He has also set eternity in their heart, yet so that man will not find out the work which God has done from the beginning even to the end.
Maybe our times are mundane and boring, but God, makes everything beautiful and full of meaning in HIS timing. If you are reading the book of Ecclesiastes remember this is Solomon in a “back slidden” state, he is trying to make sense of the world without God. He had surrendered His life to God earlier, but the influence of his thousand wives and concubines (forbidden in Deuteronomy 17) had caused him to backslide. It was his disobedience to God that caused a disconnect in that relationship. So, he has access to Godly truth and understanding, yet he is not living or walking in that truth or experiencing Gods freedom. Many newer translations correctly read “He has set eternity in their heart.” Every person understands innately, intuitively that he is an eternal creature. While he may suppress that knowledge (Romans 1), instinctively he knows that eternity is in his heart, that there’s more to life than what he sees. So as we contemplate, time and how we should pray, can we stay cognizant of the fact that time is short, and life happens.
A freezing fear is prevalent today more than ever. I see and hear from so many people, the latest, conspiracy and prophecy, and it instills fear, it clouds vision and stops people in their tracks. We must remember that time marches on. Can we keep the visual of heaven in the forefront of our minds? Please pray with purpose! Fervently. The time on Earth is short. Hold steady. Eternity awaits us all.
James 5:16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
I prayed Fervently for you this morning!
Have a great day!
Much blessings and love, Pastor Scott
DAY 21 FASTING AND PRAYER
Have you ever fasted and if so, how was it connected to prayer? The definition of “Fast”; is to abstain from all or some kinds of food or drink, especially as a religious observance. We already know the the definition of prayer, simply stated, talking to and with God. Prayer and fasting being connected is not explained in scripture, but we see them intertwined through out the Bible. In the Old Testament, we see prayer and fasting when there is a need, or when the situation seems hopeless. We see prayer and fasting at times of mourning, repentance or deep, deep spiritual need. When you look at the book of Nehemiah, you see him fasting and praying because he is heart broken in hearing the news of Jerusalem being destroyed. He spent days, tearfully fasting and confessing the sins of his people. Pleading for mercy. Daniel had a similar response.
Daniel 9:3 So I gave my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes.
There are several places in the Old Testament that fasting is linked with intercessory prayer. King David prayed and fasted over a sick child in 2 Samuel 12:16, weeping before the Lord in deep heart felt intercession. Esther encouraged her uncle Mordecai and the Jews to fast as she planned on appearing before the King, that act could have cost her, her life. In the New Testament, prayer and fasting is evident, but not in regards to repentance and confession. The prophetess Anna fasted and prayed.
Luke 2:37…and then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple, serving night and day with fastings and prayers.
84 years old, and determined to press in at the temple with anticipation of the coming of the savior! The church at Antioch was fasting as they worshipped, when the Holy Spirit spoke to them about commissioning Saul and Barnabas into ministry. They fasted, prayed, laid their hands on them and sent them off! So in these few examples we see, worshiping the Lord and seeking favor. Fasting and prayer shows how sincere the people are as they pray, it shows that they we can go in times of crisis to the Lord, fasting and praying. The more intense and critical the situation, the more fasting and prayer seems necessary. Jesus casts out a demon from a boy whom the disciples could not, even though Jesus gave them the authority to do so (Mark 6:7-9). The disciples asked why they couldn’t do it. Jesus told them, this type comes out only by prayer (Mark 9:29) and Matthew adds in his account prayer and fasting (Matthew 17:21).
Jesus’ point? If there is a determined foe, you MUST meet them with an equally determined faith. Remember that prayer is a weapon that is at our disposal and when we fast it helps us focus on what the target of prayer is.
Ephesians 6:18 With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints,
So fasting helps us prioritize and give intense devotion to the Lord and the spiritual concerns we have. So what to fast? Food, maybe a meal a day? How about technology? Maybe shut off the TV or stop surfing the web. Fasting is not a diet or fad. It’s taking the time you would have spent preparing and eating a meal and devoting it to prayer. Or shutting off the tv, internet or social media and focusing on prayer. We must spend uninterrupted time with the Lord.
Hebrews 10:19 ... we have confidence to enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus…
Prayer and fasting is not a burden, or something to brag about. It is an opportunity to draw closer to the Lord and watch with anticipation on how He will respond to you and how you will change as well.
Prayed for you all today!
Much Love and Blessings, Pastor Scott