Tuesday, September 30, 2008
It Ain't Easy
"For the good that I wish, I do not do; but I practice the very evil that I do not wish."- Romans 7:19 (NASB)
Paul points out what many of us have learned over the years as Christians. He shares the problem that many of us face, day by day, moment by moment. Being a Christian in this human body is not easy. We can find ourselves working against ourselves, fighting the very thing that we are to be about. It is unfortunate but true.
Take a stab at something greater. Be cognizant of the things that work against our new nature as new creations in Christ Jesus. Try living at a higher level rather than lowering yourself to someone else's level. You just might see yourself working towards elevating towards a higher level.
HELPFUL HINT:
Looking for growth in your ministry? Have you been seeking God's blessing over your spiritual development? Seek out some specific targets. Set a date of when you would like to see growth and measure up until that date. Keep track of what you did and why you did it. Jot down any Bible verses that may have encouraged you or confirmed your desires. Keep growing, and keep track of your growth as you grow.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Poetry of Prayer
Here is a piece of poetry from one of my upcoming projects. I pray that it blesses you as it has already blessed me.
My Prayer to Thee
My prayer, O Lord, is for all.
I pray for all of Your children
That they may not go astray
But that they remain in Your flock.
I pray for those who once knew You
But turned away and went their own way.
I pray for the unforgiving
That they may have their hearts opened
And that they may find forgiveness.
I pray for the unmerciful
That You will grant them mercy
So they will know how to give it to others.
I pray for the evil and the wicked
That they may see the wrong in their ways.
I pray for those who not found their way
That God will show them which way they should go.
I pray for Your bride, the church in Your name,
That she would be washed and cleaned by the Word.
I pray for Your body, the body of Christ,
That it would build up each member
And strengthen them for fruitfulness.
This is my prayer.
This my prayer in Your name.
This is my prayer for those who may not have prayed
And for those who have refused to pray
Even for their wayward situation.
I pray believing that the answer is already given
In the One who is the Answer for all of our situations.
I pray this as one forgiven and given eternally life
Through the ever-flowing fountain of the Son’s blood.