Love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. -Mark 12:30
According to this scripture verse, which incidentally appears numerous times throughout the bible, God wants ALL of us. ALL our Heart, ALL our Soul and Mind, and ALL of our Strength.
He desires our full devotion and attention, not leftovers…!
We have to get our attitude right. Our hearts must be in tune to worship God. The bible says: ‘Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks to the heart.’
-1 Samuel 16:7
Key Thoughts in this Lesson:
Our biggest distraction to worship is ourselves. We sometimes let our mind wander, or focus on who we see in church, or worry about what others are thinking.
Many Christians are in a worship ‘rut’ because they use worship styles or devotional methods that don’t fit the way God uniquely shaped them.
There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to worship.
Worship Costs our Self centeredness. You can’t worship God and yourself at the same time.
Worship takes time and energy.
The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart…!
Nine Sacred Pathways to Draw Nearer to God:
Naturalists: Love God in out door settings.
Sensates: Love God with their senses, eyes, ears, taste, smell, and touch
Traditionalists: Draw closer to God through rituals, liturgies, and unchanging structure.
Ascetics: prefer to worship God in solitude and simplicity.
Caregivers: Love God through helping others and meeting their needs.
Enthusiasts: Love God through celebration.
Activists: Love God by confronting Evil and making the world a better place to live in.
Contemplatives: Love God through adoration.
Intellectuals: love God through studying with their minds.
Coach Sam’s Personal Application and Study Notes:
Today’s lesson really spoke to me. I discovered that I am very flexible in my worship style preference. I was exposed to the traditional style in the catholic church growing up. There is very much ritual and unchanging form and function to a Catholic Mass. In my early 20’s I started attending a Baptist Church. Their style and form was ‘traditional’ in it’s own way, but there was much more emphasis on a personal relationship with God. Later on, I attended a Lutheran church for several years. This church offered two worship styles: Traditional, and Contemporary. I appreciated the contemporary music more. For the past few years My wife and I have been attending a non denominational church in League City, and the worship at that church is unlike any other I’ve ever been at.
The point I’d like to make is that at each phase in my Christian life I was able to adapt and worship God in what ever Genre was available to me. Looking back I can see a definite progression. Different worship definitely appeal to different personality types and that’s because God made everyone different. It’s our job to find out our best worship ‘shape’ and give God all the Glory, Honor, Respect, Praise, and Worship that is due the King of Kings…!
And, another point I want to make is that I am in no way ‘bashing’ other religions or denominations. I just recognized perhaps why there are so many different churches out there. I never realized that there were 9 different shapes, or ways of expressing oneself to God. I actually identified with multiple shapes from that list.
I suppose that now after reading and studying chapter 13 of this PDL series that a person’s worship style and taste changes throughout seasons of their life. At least that’s true for me. It makes me a little more tolerant of other denominations and faiths than I once was.
Dear Heavenly Father,
There are many ways to worship You, Lord. Everyone is wired a bit differently in that regard. I appreciate the uniqueness and diversity you gave Your Body of Believers. Lord I thank you for my personal experience of many different worship settings. I better understand what it is to fully engage in authentic worship. To love You with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength is my greatest desire.
Lord Jesus, it is my prayer that everyone come to an understanding of their optimal worship style and experience a close walk with You.
Father, I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. I ask for your blessings and ask that I be a blessing to my friends, family, and everyone whom I influence today.
Lord I ask these things in Your Son’s name, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Monday, November 29, 2004
PDL Lesson 12: Further Developing Your Relationship with God
PDL Lesson 12 Developing Your Friendship with God
There are 6 areas of importance when developing your friendship with God. We looked at two of them in lesson 11. To be God’s friend we need to spend time speaking to him in prayer and thoughts. We also need to get to know him better by reading and meditating on his word, the bible.
How close a relationship we have with God is entirely up to us. We must work at developing it. It won’t happen by accident.
Four Things we must do to develop our Relationship with God:
Be Honest with God.
Trust Him.
Care what God cares about.
Desire His Friendship more than anything else.
Honesty is the best Policy! The first building block of a deeper relationship is complete honesty. We don’t have to be perfect. We’re going to make mistakes, but God wants us to be Honest with Him in everything we do. We can tell Him when we’re angry, hurt, confused, sad, or happy. It is important that we hold nothing back from Him of what we feel. In fact there is a book in the bible devoted entirely to this type of authentic communication with God. It’s called the Psalms.
Obey in Faith! We don’t often think of obedience as being an ingredient in friendship, but it is an ingredient in a friendship with God. John 15:14 says: You are my friends if you do what I command… True friendship isn’t passive. It Acts! When Jesus asks us to love others, help the needy, share our resources, keep our lives clean, offer forgiveness, bring others to Him, love motivates us to obey immediately.
Value what God Values! Friends care about their friends care about. They share like interests. The more you start to care about God the more you’ll share his interests. He cares most about redeeming people. That’s’ why Jesus came to earth as a man. To save us. God values us telling others about Him.
We must desire friendship with God more than anything else! The Apostle Paul lived his life this way. Here is a quote from Philippians 3:10… My determined purpose is that I might know Him, that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of HIS PERSON more strongly and more clearly…
Paul was passionate about God. What is your passion…? Dr Warren says that Pain is the fuel of passion. It energizes us with an intensity to change that we normally don’t possess. CS Lewis put it this way: Pain is God’s megaphone. It’s God’s way of arousing us from spiritual lethargy.
Coach Sam’s Personal Study Notes: God has definitely used pain in my life to grab my attention. Broken relationships, Death, difficult job situations…. I feel that all these experiences have driven me to seek a closer relationship with God.
Verse to remember from Chapter 12: Draw close to God and he will draw close to You. James 4:8
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, Thank You for being my friend. I pray this is a friendship that will continually deepen over time. Father, help me draw closer to you. To always seek the truth and the light. Help me to trust in You and dispel all doubt and lack of faith. I truly desire a deep, close friendship with You, Lord.
I pray for Your blessings, Lord. On Myself, and my family. Father I pray for blessings on my friends who are doing this study with me. Lord, I just intercede on their behalf, today.
I give this day to you, sweet Lord and Savior. I love you, Lord. And in Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN.
There are 6 areas of importance when developing your friendship with God. We looked at two of them in lesson 11. To be God’s friend we need to spend time speaking to him in prayer and thoughts. We also need to get to know him better by reading and meditating on his word, the bible.
How close a relationship we have with God is entirely up to us. We must work at developing it. It won’t happen by accident.
Four Things we must do to develop our Relationship with God:
Be Honest with God.
Trust Him.
Care what God cares about.
Desire His Friendship more than anything else.
Honesty is the best Policy! The first building block of a deeper relationship is complete honesty. We don’t have to be perfect. We’re going to make mistakes, but God wants us to be Honest with Him in everything we do. We can tell Him when we’re angry, hurt, confused, sad, or happy. It is important that we hold nothing back from Him of what we feel. In fact there is a book in the bible devoted entirely to this type of authentic communication with God. It’s called the Psalms.
Obey in Faith! We don’t often think of obedience as being an ingredient in friendship, but it is an ingredient in a friendship with God. John 15:14 says: You are my friends if you do what I command… True friendship isn’t passive. It Acts! When Jesus asks us to love others, help the needy, share our resources, keep our lives clean, offer forgiveness, bring others to Him, love motivates us to obey immediately.
Value what God Values! Friends care about their friends care about. They share like interests. The more you start to care about God the more you’ll share his interests. He cares most about redeeming people. That’s’ why Jesus came to earth as a man. To save us. God values us telling others about Him.
We must desire friendship with God more than anything else! The Apostle Paul lived his life this way. Here is a quote from Philippians 3:10… My determined purpose is that I might know Him, that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of HIS PERSON more strongly and more clearly…
Paul was passionate about God. What is your passion…? Dr Warren says that Pain is the fuel of passion. It energizes us with an intensity to change that we normally don’t possess. CS Lewis put it this way: Pain is God’s megaphone. It’s God’s way of arousing us from spiritual lethargy.
Coach Sam’s Personal Study Notes: God has definitely used pain in my life to grab my attention. Broken relationships, Death, difficult job situations…. I feel that all these experiences have driven me to seek a closer relationship with God.
Verse to remember from Chapter 12: Draw close to God and he will draw close to You. James 4:8
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, Thank You for being my friend. I pray this is a friendship that will continually deepen over time. Father, help me draw closer to you. To always seek the truth and the light. Help me to trust in You and dispel all doubt and lack of faith. I truly desire a deep, close friendship with You, Lord.
I pray for Your blessings, Lord. On Myself, and my family. Father I pray for blessings on my friends who are doing this study with me. Lord, I just intercede on their behalf, today.
I give this day to you, sweet Lord and Savior. I love you, Lord. And in Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN.
Sunday, November 28, 2004
PDL Lesson 11 Becoming Best Friends with God
PDL Lesson 11… Becoming Best Friends With God
Jeremiah 9:23-24
23 This is what the LORD says: "Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom
or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches,
24 but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me,
that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight," declares the LORD.
(from New International Version)
Think about your best ‘human friend’ here on earth. That person would probably do just about anything you asked of them. They would listen to you even if it was not a convenient time. Your best friend probably knows things about you that hardly anyone else knows. You trust this person intimately. You know you can count on your best friend. Well, God wants to be best friends with us. But for that to happen we have to spend more time with him. You can not really be friends with someone whom you do not know that well.
But spending more time with God doesn’t mean spending more time alone with Him. We have to learn to include God in everything we do 24 hours a day. This is called ‘Practicing the Presence of God.’ God rules everything and is everywhere and is in everything. (Ephesians 4:6) So we just need to invite him into our activities and carry on a dialog with him all day long. That is a best friend. Someone who hangs with you all day through thick and thin.
I mowed my yard earlier today and practiced the presence of God during that time. God was with me every step of the way. I like working in the yard with God. I want my yard to look as good as I can because God has entrusted this little piece of earth into my hands and to not take good care of it would be to dishonor HIM. Working in the yard has become a spiritual, prayerful experience for me.
The PDL Chapter 11 stresses two points. One point is to spend continual time with God in conversation and prayer. The other point is to meditate on His Word. It is impossible to be God’s friend apart from knowing what he says. You can’t love God unless you know Him and you can’t know Him without reading His Word, the Bible.
So what is meditation…? It is simply focused thinking. Dr Warren tells us that If you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate. You just need to switch your attention from your problems to bible verses. The more you meditate on God’s Word then the less you will have to worry about!
If there is one thing that Sam Chadwell is good at it is worrying, so if I can just apply that principle to my bible study habits then I will really begin to see my relationship with God deepen.
Jeremiah 9:23-24
23 This is what the LORD says: "Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom
or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches,
24 but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me,
that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth,
for in these I delight," declares the LORD.
(from New International Version)
Think about your best ‘human friend’ here on earth. That person would probably do just about anything you asked of them. They would listen to you even if it was not a convenient time. Your best friend probably knows things about you that hardly anyone else knows. You trust this person intimately. You know you can count on your best friend. Well, God wants to be best friends with us. But for that to happen we have to spend more time with him. You can not really be friends with someone whom you do not know that well.
But spending more time with God doesn’t mean spending more time alone with Him. We have to learn to include God in everything we do 24 hours a day. This is called ‘Practicing the Presence of God.’ God rules everything and is everywhere and is in everything. (Ephesians 4:6) So we just need to invite him into our activities and carry on a dialog with him all day long. That is a best friend. Someone who hangs with you all day through thick and thin.
I mowed my yard earlier today and practiced the presence of God during that time. God was with me every step of the way. I like working in the yard with God. I want my yard to look as good as I can because God has entrusted this little piece of earth into my hands and to not take good care of it would be to dishonor HIM. Working in the yard has become a spiritual, prayerful experience for me.
The PDL Chapter 11 stresses two points. One point is to spend continual time with God in conversation and prayer. The other point is to meditate on His Word. It is impossible to be God’s friend apart from knowing what he says. You can’t love God unless you know Him and you can’t know Him without reading His Word, the Bible.
So what is meditation…? It is simply focused thinking. Dr Warren tells us that If you know how to worry, you already know how to meditate. You just need to switch your attention from your problems to bible verses. The more you meditate on God’s Word then the less you will have to worry about!
If there is one thing that Sam Chadwell is good at it is worrying, so if I can just apply that principle to my bible study habits then I will really begin to see my relationship with God deepen.
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Leaning on the Lord today
I don't feel strong spiritually every day. Some days are better than others. Today is one of the weaker days... I'll have some more quiet time as I'm driving on the road today, but I was just thinking that after he took his human form, even Jesus had his ups and downs. He frequently needed to get away to a quiet place and pray. And when he prayed he would just lean on the Lord. And that's what I'm doing now...
Heavenly Father, Divine Creator, thank You Precious Lord for holding me up. For lifting me up. And Thank You Lord for blessing me with my sweet wife Monica. She is a precious jewell, Oh Lord. I'm feeling a little weak today but I trust You to sustain me, Father. And to sustain my Sweet Wife, also.
Give me strength, Courage, and give me Grace to face the day and be a witness for Your Kingdom. I love You Lord. I want my life to make a difference in this world. I want to influence people in a positive way for You, Lord. Guide my actions and season my words, Dear Lord.
Father God, help me accomplish all my tasks ahead of me. Help me give great tennis lessons today. And then help me to slow down a bit, Lord. This pace is too great. I need to be a good steward of my time to honor You.
Lord Jesus, I just give this day to You. And I Praise Your Name forever and ever...
Amen
Heavenly Father, Divine Creator, thank You Precious Lord for holding me up. For lifting me up. And Thank You Lord for blessing me with my sweet wife Monica. She is a precious jewell, Oh Lord. I'm feeling a little weak today but I trust You to sustain me, Father. And to sustain my Sweet Wife, also.
Give me strength, Courage, and give me Grace to face the day and be a witness for Your Kingdom. I love You Lord. I want my life to make a difference in this world. I want to influence people in a positive way for You, Lord. Guide my actions and season my words, Dear Lord.
Father God, help me accomplish all my tasks ahead of me. Help me give great tennis lessons today. And then help me to slow down a bit, Lord. This pace is too great. I need to be a good steward of my time to honor You.
Lord Jesus, I just give this day to You. And I Praise Your Name forever and ever...
Amen
Friday, November 26, 2004
Quiet Time With Our Lord
Quiet Time.
This world is moving at an insane pace. Just listening to the cars whiz by my office window at 5 AM is testament to that. Where does someone need to be so urgently at 5 AM on a holiday weekend? I don't know. But I take it as a reminder to me that I don't want my life to be like that. I want to slow down. I desperately need to slow down.
I awakened this morning at 3:57 AM and spent the next hour just laying in bed, praying. From my bedroom I could not hear any traffic. Of course I'm sure that there was not as much traffic back then, either. But still. It was so nice to have peace and quiet.
I really did not pray the entire time. I just keep thanking God for blessing me. And thanking Him for my wife and the awesome thanksgiving holiday we celebrated yesterday. But mostly I was just trying to listen. The old scripture of the Lord instructing us to: Be still and know that I am God... comes to mind this morning.
God wants me to slow down. I need to spend more time in prayer. More time in Bible study. More time living an authentic Godly life. And less time in this hustle and bustle lifestyle I've come accustomed to..
I stopped to this morning that I definitely don't get enough quirt time where I let God speak to me. Where I just listen. I'm always in a quiet dialog with God. And now I wonder what that sounds like...? I want to be a friend of God. A Friend listens. A friend doesn't monopolize the conversation the entire time.
So I guess that today's revelation if you want to call it that is to seek more quiet time with God. Find a quiet place. Don't You do all the talking. He that hath ears let him hear.
Dear Heavenly Father, I've been in a one sided relationship with You. I'm sorry that I haven't given You the time and respect that you deserve. Lord, I seek You. I want to know You better. Hold on to me. Don't let me go. Keep me safe. Help me be a better Christian. Help me lead others closer to You.
Send Your Holy Spirit, Lord. Strengthen me and discipline me to diligently seek you. To ignore my feelings and emotions and run after you in reckless abandon. Oh Father Thanks for the quiet time. Thanks for hearing my prayer. Lord, I love You.
I give this day, and my life, to You. Father I lift up my friends and family to you today in prayer. I especially lift up my prayer warriors Elizabeth and Debbie and their respective family issues today, Lord.
Father God, Just thank You for being an awesome God. And for Your Grace and Love and Everlasting Life. In Jesus' Name I Pray, Amen.
This world is moving at an insane pace. Just listening to the cars whiz by my office window at 5 AM is testament to that. Where does someone need to be so urgently at 5 AM on a holiday weekend? I don't know. But I take it as a reminder to me that I don't want my life to be like that. I want to slow down. I desperately need to slow down.
I awakened this morning at 3:57 AM and spent the next hour just laying in bed, praying. From my bedroom I could not hear any traffic. Of course I'm sure that there was not as much traffic back then, either. But still. It was so nice to have peace and quiet.
I really did not pray the entire time. I just keep thanking God for blessing me. And thanking Him for my wife and the awesome thanksgiving holiday we celebrated yesterday. But mostly I was just trying to listen. The old scripture of the Lord instructing us to: Be still and know that I am God... comes to mind this morning.
God wants me to slow down. I need to spend more time in prayer. More time in Bible study. More time living an authentic Godly life. And less time in this hustle and bustle lifestyle I've come accustomed to..
I stopped to this morning that I definitely don't get enough quirt time where I let God speak to me. Where I just listen. I'm always in a quiet dialog with God. And now I wonder what that sounds like...? I want to be a friend of God. A Friend listens. A friend doesn't monopolize the conversation the entire time.
So I guess that today's revelation if you want to call it that is to seek more quiet time with God. Find a quiet place. Don't You do all the talking. He that hath ears let him hear.
Dear Heavenly Father, I've been in a one sided relationship with You. I'm sorry that I haven't given You the time and respect that you deserve. Lord, I seek You. I want to know You better. Hold on to me. Don't let me go. Keep me safe. Help me be a better Christian. Help me lead others closer to You.
Send Your Holy Spirit, Lord. Strengthen me and discipline me to diligently seek you. To ignore my feelings and emotions and run after you in reckless abandon. Oh Father Thanks for the quiet time. Thanks for hearing my prayer. Lord, I love You.
I give this day, and my life, to You. Father I lift up my friends and family to you today in prayer. I especially lift up my prayer warriors Elizabeth and Debbie and their respective family issues today, Lord.
Father God, Just thank You for being an awesome God. And for Your Grace and Love and Everlasting Life. In Jesus' Name I Pray, Amen.
Thursday, November 25, 2004
A Very Thankful Thanksgiving
This is a special Thanksgiving for Monica and I. It is only our second Thanksgiving Holiday together as a married couple and the first Thanksgiving my wife and I are spending in our new house... Last year we lived in the Montrose area and this year we live a little farther north outside the 610 loop.
We have a family tradition of preparing holiday meals and delivering them to homeless in Montrose and the downtown area. Last year we ran out of food and had to go pick up some whoppers at Burger King for a few people, but this year we are preparing more food...! We'll make our delivery run later this Afternoon.
We are so grateful that God has blessed us and allowed us to be a blessing to others. We live in a great country and God is Good...!
Thank You Dear Heavenly Father for blessing the Chadwell Family in 2004...! We've had numerous trials and challenges throughout the year but Praise God, You have been more than faithful to take care of us and meet our needs each and every time...!
We Love You, Lord. We Praise You and Lift You Up...! In Your Son's Holy Name we Pray, AMEN.
We have a family tradition of preparing holiday meals and delivering them to homeless in Montrose and the downtown area. Last year we ran out of food and had to go pick up some whoppers at Burger King for a few people, but this year we are preparing more food...! We'll make our delivery run later this Afternoon.
We are so grateful that God has blessed us and allowed us to be a blessing to others. We live in a great country and God is Good...!
Thank You Dear Heavenly Father for blessing the Chadwell Family in 2004...! We've had numerous trials and challenges throughout the year but Praise God, You have been more than faithful to take care of us and meet our needs each and every time...!
We Love You, Lord. We Praise You and Lift You Up...! In Your Son's Holy Name we Pray, AMEN.
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Day Before Thanksgiving...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You Lord for this Holiday Season.
I pray this morning for everyone traveling today. Guide them safely on their journey, Lord.
Father, I pray for my tennis tournament today, too. Keep the players safe from injury and allow it to be a time of fellowship and good sportsmanship. Season my words today to encourage and motivate the young athletes to discover their best potential.
Lord, I have so much to be thankful for. You have blessed me far beyond what I need or certainly what I deserve. Thank You God, for being God...!
In Jesus' Name I Pray, AMEN
Thank You Lord for this Holiday Season.
I pray this morning for everyone traveling today. Guide them safely on their journey, Lord.
Father, I pray for my tennis tournament today, too. Keep the players safe from injury and allow it to be a time of fellowship and good sportsmanship. Season my words today to encourage and motivate the young athletes to discover their best potential.
Lord, I have so much to be thankful for. You have blessed me far beyond what I need or certainly what I deserve. Thank You God, for being God...!
In Jesus' Name I Pray, AMEN
Friday, November 19, 2004
Prayer for my Sweet Wife...
Today I just want to lift up my Sweetie today. She's making some big decisions right now and I'd appreciate it if all the prayer warriors would just bathe her in prayer through out the day, today. Pray for her decernment regarding a particular situation and also for her peace.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I am so thankful for my wife. Thank You Lord for blessing me with the love of my life, my sweet Monica. Father, I just want to ask that You guard her and keep her safe. Lift her up and help her reach the decisions she needs to make regarding her time management issues. I pray Lord that she have a super productive day today. And that although she had a restless night last night, I pray that you bless her with abundant energy. Let today be a good day for her at work and let traffic and other distractions be at a minimum.
Father God, I love You. And I trust You to meet Monica's needs. Lord I just lay these requests at You feet. I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen!
Dear Heavenly Father,
I am so thankful for my wife. Thank You Lord for blessing me with the love of my life, my sweet Monica. Father, I just want to ask that You guard her and keep her safe. Lift her up and help her reach the decisions she needs to make regarding her time management issues. I pray Lord that she have a super productive day today. And that although she had a restless night last night, I pray that you bless her with abundant energy. Let today be a good day for her at work and let traffic and other distractions be at a minimum.
Father God, I love You. And I trust You to meet Monica's needs. Lord I just lay these requests at You feet. I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen!
Thursday, November 18, 2004
Back to the PDL Study
OK... I've been away long enough... My 40 days is going to turn into something more like 60 days, but I'm back in the Saddle of the Purpose Driven Life Study. My small group is way ahead of me, but I'll catch up. Here's where I left off awhile back.
PDL Lesson 10 The Heart of Worship
Opening Scripture:
Give Yourselves to God… Surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes… Romans 6:13 Key Word (s): Surrender
Why should we surrender to Jesus…? And what exactly is ‘surrender’…?
More From Romans:
‘So then my friends, because of God’s great mercy to us… offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God. Dedicated to His service and pleasing to Him. This is the true worship that you should offer.’ Romans 12:1
We should surrender to God because of God’s amazing Love and Mercy. Offering ourselves to God is what worship is all about.
Three Barriers That Block Total Surrender to God:
FEAR: Trust is an essential ingredient to surrender. Many are scared to Trust God. Fear keeps us from surrendering, but the bible says that ‘Love casts out all Fear…’ When we realize how much God loves us, surrender becomes much easier.
PRIDE: Our struggles with life are really struggles with God. We want to be in charge of our own destiny. We have to learn that we can’t do it under our own power. It’s God working through us. We must be obedient to God’s word, and Trust in Him. You know you’re surrendered to God when you rely on God to work things out instead of trying to manipulate others, force your agenda, and control the situation.
CONFUSION: If You don’t surrender to God You surrender to something else and then there is chaos. Many of us surrender to Money, Pride, Lust, and Ego. If we put other things before God then we are not totally surrendering to Him.
A Little More about Surrender: There are two aspects of Surrender.
The Moment of Surrender: That’s when we surrender for the first time.
The Practice of Surrender: After the first time we have to surrender moment by moment for the rest of our lifetime. That’s the difficult part. It’s not easy to stay surrendered. Paul said: ‘I die daily…’ 2 Cor 5:9 meaning surrender is not a one-time event…!
Dear Heavenly Father,
You loved me so much that you sacrificed Your Beloved Son so that I might have eternal life. Why don’t I trust You More…? How can I put other things before You…? Lord, take away my Pride. Make Me, Keep Me a humble man. Help me with my faith issue. I want everything about me to be Glorifying You, Lord. My words, my actions, my thoughts… Especially my thoughts. The Battle of Faith is fought in the thought world.
Today Lord, I Really Surrender myself to You. I surrender my marriage, my career, my relationships, my finances. I give it all to you. You Jesus, are in the driver’s seat of my life. I run to You with reckless abandon.
Lord, just make of my life what You will. I trust You to raise me up to face the adversity that may be ahead. You’ll season my words with Grace and Edification when I need it. I have no fear of the future, Lord. Come what may, I will be Your faithful servant.
Father God, I love You. I thank You for these precious moments with You. This quiet time. And Thank You Lord for being my God. For Protecting me. For Providing for me. For being my source of Strength, My Rock. And Most Importantly: For Your Gift of Salvation.
Lord Jesus, I Pray these things in Your Holy Name, AMEN.
PDL Lesson 10 The Heart of Worship
Opening Scripture:
Give Yourselves to God… Surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes… Romans 6:13 Key Word (s): Surrender
Why should we surrender to Jesus…? And what exactly is ‘surrender’…?
More From Romans:
‘So then my friends, because of God’s great mercy to us… offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God. Dedicated to His service and pleasing to Him. This is the true worship that you should offer.’ Romans 12:1
We should surrender to God because of God’s amazing Love and Mercy. Offering ourselves to God is what worship is all about.
Three Barriers That Block Total Surrender to God:
FEAR: Trust is an essential ingredient to surrender. Many are scared to Trust God. Fear keeps us from surrendering, but the bible says that ‘Love casts out all Fear…’ When we realize how much God loves us, surrender becomes much easier.
PRIDE: Our struggles with life are really struggles with God. We want to be in charge of our own destiny. We have to learn that we can’t do it under our own power. It’s God working through us. We must be obedient to God’s word, and Trust in Him. You know you’re surrendered to God when you rely on God to work things out instead of trying to manipulate others, force your agenda, and control the situation.
CONFUSION: If You don’t surrender to God You surrender to something else and then there is chaos. Many of us surrender to Money, Pride, Lust, and Ego. If we put other things before God then we are not totally surrendering to Him.
A Little More about Surrender: There are two aspects of Surrender.
The Moment of Surrender: That’s when we surrender for the first time.
The Practice of Surrender: After the first time we have to surrender moment by moment for the rest of our lifetime. That’s the difficult part. It’s not easy to stay surrendered. Paul said: ‘I die daily…’ 2 Cor 5:9 meaning surrender is not a one-time event…!
Dear Heavenly Father,
You loved me so much that you sacrificed Your Beloved Son so that I might have eternal life. Why don’t I trust You More…? How can I put other things before You…? Lord, take away my Pride. Make Me, Keep Me a humble man. Help me with my faith issue. I want everything about me to be Glorifying You, Lord. My words, my actions, my thoughts… Especially my thoughts. The Battle of Faith is fought in the thought world.
Today Lord, I Really Surrender myself to You. I surrender my marriage, my career, my relationships, my finances. I give it all to you. You Jesus, are in the driver’s seat of my life. I run to You with reckless abandon.
Lord, just make of my life what You will. I trust You to raise me up to face the adversity that may be ahead. You’ll season my words with Grace and Edification when I need it. I have no fear of the future, Lord. Come what may, I will be Your faithful servant.
Father God, I love You. I thank You for these precious moments with You. This quiet time. And Thank You Lord for being my God. For Protecting me. For Providing for me. For being my source of Strength, My Rock. And Most Importantly: For Your Gift of Salvation.
Lord Jesus, I Pray these things in Your Holy Name, AMEN.
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
PHILIPPIANS 3:13-14
'Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.'
(from New International Version)
‘Forgetting what is behind… That is the key to success. Move forward. Don’t be bogged down by previous defeats, hurts or set backs. It’s so easy to slip, become depressed and just let bad situations snow ball and breed more difficulty.
What is behind you…? Failure… Ridicule… Betrayal… Loss…
Everyone faces adversity at some time or another.. The bible says that we will face troubles in this world. Not that we might have them but we WILL face them. But Phil 3:14 says to keep on running the race. It encourages us to Not give up... We have a Great Prize awaiting us in Heaven!
But how can we ‘forget’…? How can we get defeat out of our heads…? Well, Paul says to strain toward what is ahead. Paul was an incredible man of courage and he never gave up. We can and must try to be like the apostle Paul. Press On. Press on for Jesus.
Are You or someone you know facing adversity…? Pray for them to move forward, to press on toward the goal…
Trust in the Lord God and he will make your path straight.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Someone I know is facing adversity. More than one person, in fact. I pray for them today. I pray for Your Grace in their particular situations. I pray for the Holy Spirit to intervene in their circumstances. Father, I know that You have lessons You want us to learn and You ‘grow’ us through adversity. And You said that You’d never give us more than we could bear. Thank You for growing and stretching us. Thank You for sending people into our lives to help us along the bumpy roads. Give my friends the Grace to accept help when it is rendered. Lord, Give me that Grace, too. I’m bad about allowing others to help me, as well.
But Praise Your Name, Lord You are a Comfort to the weary and a Healer to the Sick. Lord, You are a Great Provider. And we can live life with confidence that You will take care of our every need. Father, You have already worked great miracles in my life. You have already answered so many of my prayers. Thank You Jesus for being the kind, loving, generous, forgiving God that You are…!
I lift these special requests up in your Holy Name, Jesus. Amen.
(from New International Version)
‘Forgetting what is behind… That is the key to success. Move forward. Don’t be bogged down by previous defeats, hurts or set backs. It’s so easy to slip, become depressed and just let bad situations snow ball and breed more difficulty.
What is behind you…? Failure… Ridicule… Betrayal… Loss…
Everyone faces adversity at some time or another.. The bible says that we will face troubles in this world. Not that we might have them but we WILL face them. But Phil 3:14 says to keep on running the race. It encourages us to Not give up... We have a Great Prize awaiting us in Heaven!
But how can we ‘forget’…? How can we get defeat out of our heads…? Well, Paul says to strain toward what is ahead. Paul was an incredible man of courage and he never gave up. We can and must try to be like the apostle Paul. Press On. Press on for Jesus.
Are You or someone you know facing adversity…? Pray for them to move forward, to press on toward the goal…
Trust in the Lord God and he will make your path straight.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Someone I know is facing adversity. More than one person, in fact. I pray for them today. I pray for Your Grace in their particular situations. I pray for the Holy Spirit to intervene in their circumstances. Father, I know that You have lessons You want us to learn and You ‘grow’ us through adversity. And You said that You’d never give us more than we could bear. Thank You for growing and stretching us. Thank You for sending people into our lives to help us along the bumpy roads. Give my friends the Grace to accept help when it is rendered. Lord, Give me that Grace, too. I’m bad about allowing others to help me, as well.
But Praise Your Name, Lord You are a Comfort to the weary and a Healer to the Sick. Lord, You are a Great Provider. And we can live life with confidence that You will take care of our every need. Father, You have already worked great miracles in my life. You have already answered so many of my prayers. Thank You Jesus for being the kind, loving, generous, forgiving God that You are…!
I lift these special requests up in your Holy Name, Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
REDEDICATION OF COACH SAM
Mark 9:50
50 "Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other."
(from New International Version)
Jesus referred to his disciples as the ‘salt of the world’. What is salt…? It is a seasoning. It enhances dull, bland foods. What else does salt do besides seasoning…? It is often used as a preservative. It saves food and makes it last longer. When you accept Jesus as your personal savior, your soul is preserved (saved) for eternity. That’s some mighty strong salt…!
We are called to season and preserve the lives of others through our own ‘saltiness’. There’s definitely been an ebb and flow to my saltiness lately. Something I readily recognize and am working diligently on because I want to flow...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Make me more salty. As I pour myself into the lives of others around me I pray that my words are seasoned with the Salt of Your Holy Spirit. Lord, I pray You work through me to enhance the lives of friends, family, and all who cross my path. Let me be Encouraging where there is Despair. Let me bring Hope and Love where there is Sadness and Loneliness. Let me bring Peace where there is Restlessness.
Lord Jesus, I’ve not been living my life as I should. I have not been living enough for You. I’ve put many, many other things before You. But Lord, today. Right now. I acknowledge you as My Personal Savior. I Rededicate my Life to You, Lord.
In this public profession of faith Lord, I pledge to live the rest of my life for You. To You who have given me eternal life, I pledge my earthly life.
My God, My Savior, Thank You Jesus for Blessing Me. I pray that I continue to grow in You and become a blessing to others.
I pray these things in Jesus’ name, AMEN
50 "Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with each other."
(from New International Version)
Jesus referred to his disciples as the ‘salt of the world’. What is salt…? It is a seasoning. It enhances dull, bland foods. What else does salt do besides seasoning…? It is often used as a preservative. It saves food and makes it last longer. When you accept Jesus as your personal savior, your soul is preserved (saved) for eternity. That’s some mighty strong salt…!
We are called to season and preserve the lives of others through our own ‘saltiness’. There’s definitely been an ebb and flow to my saltiness lately. Something I readily recognize and am working diligently on because I want to flow...!
Dear Heavenly Father,
Make me more salty. As I pour myself into the lives of others around me I pray that my words are seasoned with the Salt of Your Holy Spirit. Lord, I pray You work through me to enhance the lives of friends, family, and all who cross my path. Let me be Encouraging where there is Despair. Let me bring Hope and Love where there is Sadness and Loneliness. Let me bring Peace where there is Restlessness.
Lord Jesus, I’ve not been living my life as I should. I have not been living enough for You. I’ve put many, many other things before You. But Lord, today. Right now. I acknowledge you as My Personal Savior. I Rededicate my Life to You, Lord.
In this public profession of faith Lord, I pledge to live the rest of my life for You. To You who have given me eternal life, I pledge my earthly life.
My God, My Savior, Thank You Jesus for Blessing Me. I pray that I continue to grow in You and become a blessing to others.
I pray these things in Jesus’ name, AMEN
Monday, November 15, 2004
Prayer for the New Week
I've taken a few days off from journaling. I guess I've been in a big spiritual slump lately. But today in the words of the Apostle Paul: ' I press on toward the goal'. And what's my goal...? Well, to know God and serve Him better. To grow in the word. To be salt and light to the world. To Love the Lord God with all my heart, mind, soul and strength. That's my goal. And to Love my neighbor as much as I Love myself. That's a tall order, I know. But that's my prayer. For Me and for You.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I heard several sermons this weekend that reminded me of Your Omnipresence. You are everywhere, Lord. And of Your Omnipotence. You know everything. There's no way on heaven or earth to hide from You or to hide anything from You. Lord, as we start a new work week I ask for Grace. Forgive our trepasses, Lord. And help us to forgive others. Help us to forgive that rude service person and the discourtious driver. Help us to believe our brothers and sisters. Yes, let us be slow to anger and quick to forgive. Help us to be faithful to Your greatest commandments.
Oh Lord, You are most Holy. And so Worthy to be praised. Lord I know others echo my sentiments but now I speak only for myself. Father, I need You, Lord. I love you and just want to serve You better. Shield me from the enemy attacks. Father, lift me up. Help me to be an inspiration and encouragement to my wife and family and all I encounter this week. Season my words with the salt of life, Lord. Let Your Spirit reign in my heart. Fill me to overflowing with your abundant Grace and Love and tender Mercy.
Father God, Many thanks for my blessings. For my beautiful house... For mine and Monicas jobs... For Monica's Mom and Dad, and my brothers, sister and our friends. Lord thank You for all my tennis students. And Lord Thank You Most of All for the Gift of Salvation. Thank You for Jesus. Jesus died for me so that I might live. Lord, I want to live for you.
I dedicate my life to you, Lord. This day, this week, the rest of the year, and the years to come. They're all Yours, Lord. Father I humbly come before You and ask for Your continued blessings. In Jesus' Name I Pray, AMEN.
Dear Heavenly Father,
I heard several sermons this weekend that reminded me of Your Omnipresence. You are everywhere, Lord. And of Your Omnipotence. You know everything. There's no way on heaven or earth to hide from You or to hide anything from You. Lord, as we start a new work week I ask for Grace. Forgive our trepasses, Lord. And help us to forgive others. Help us to forgive that rude service person and the discourtious driver. Help us to believe our brothers and sisters. Yes, let us be slow to anger and quick to forgive. Help us to be faithful to Your greatest commandments.
Oh Lord, You are most Holy. And so Worthy to be praised. Lord I know others echo my sentiments but now I speak only for myself. Father, I need You, Lord. I love you and just want to serve You better. Shield me from the enemy attacks. Father, lift me up. Help me to be an inspiration and encouragement to my wife and family and all I encounter this week. Season my words with the salt of life, Lord. Let Your Spirit reign in my heart. Fill me to overflowing with your abundant Grace and Love and tender Mercy.
Father God, Many thanks for my blessings. For my beautiful house... For mine and Monicas jobs... For Monica's Mom and Dad, and my brothers, sister and our friends. Lord thank You for all my tennis students. And Lord Thank You Most of All for the Gift of Salvation. Thank You for Jesus. Jesus died for me so that I might live. Lord, I want to live for you.
I dedicate my life to you, Lord. This day, this week, the rest of the year, and the years to come. They're all Yours, Lord. Father I humbly come before You and ask for Your continued blessings. In Jesus' Name I Pray, AMEN.
Thursday, November 11, 2004
Intercession
Today I feel moved to do a begin a discussion on 'Intercession'. Intercession as it relates to the bible means praying to God on behalf of someone else.
1 Timothy 2 states: '... I urge you then that prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for everyone...'
According to 1 Timothy 2 We are called to intercede on the behalf of others. I really feel that's my calling: intercessory prayer. I'm still developing this gift. In fact, I would consider my development of this gift in it's infancy stage. Many times it's perfectly clear what I should pray about, and who I should intercede for. But then at other times, my times of 'dryness', I just have a hard time praying. I'll slip into a routine of focusing mainly on my own selfish needs and wants. It's difficult to be 'selfless' all the time. But we must always strive to put others needs before our own.
Lately, when I feel spiritually dry, I'll just pray to God asking who or what he wants me to pray for... Then the key to getting the answer is slowing down and being quiet enough to hear God's voice. And that's my other big, big, struggle: Busy-ness.
Today I pray for everyone who is too busy. For everyone who like me allows life get in the way of living for God. A good formula for success is to prioritize your life into these 3 simple categories: God First. Others Second. Self Last. I know that's a common saying or phrase. I've heard it many times. But this morning it's taking on a greater significance and meaning to me.
I'm very behind on my Purpose Driven Life Study but I promise I will catch up. I guess that's part of the placing God 'first' in your life category...!
Dear Heavenly Father, You are a God of Faithfulness. It is recorded many, many, times how you interceded in the lives of those who were called to Your purposes. Indeed, I look at my own life, Lord. And I see instance after instance where You've blessed me, restored me, and pretty much met my every need. Lord You are a God of miracles...!
Jesus, I ask today that You move powerfully in the lives of the Prayer Warriors (including myself). Help us to deal with this issue of being to 'Busy'. Even being busy with good deeds and 'Kingdom-Work' can be detrimental if it is done at the expense of a person's sanity.
Lord, specifically I intercede on behalf of my Brother John and Sister Becky. I pray they get really connected to You. I pray for my Brother in Law (also named John). He is the epitome of busy. But he is busy in pursuits that don't glorify You or necessarily benefit his family, either. Let Him know You, Lord. Father, I'd be remiss if I didn't pray on behalf of my nephews. Joey is running wild with no regard for himself or others around Him. I pray that You move in his life quickly and powerfully. Let there be no mistake that You have worked a miracle in his life, freeing him of his chemical dependencies. And drawing him to You.
Heavenly Father, As always I pray for my sweet wife, Monica. You are working many miracles in her life, freeing her from her bonds. Thank You Lord. Thank You for bringing her into my life. Thank You for the struggles we face that just make us stronger and stronger. Lord, Just continue to lift her up. Restore her. Season her words and her life for witnessing. Help her with Busyness. Help her have a productive day today. Please Lord, Divinely Inspire her to use her artistic talent and gift to Glorify You.
Father God, I just Love You. I Praise You and Worship You. I give this day to You.
Lord Jesus I pray these things in Your Holy Name, AMEN.
1 Timothy 2 states: '... I urge you then that prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for everyone...'
According to 1 Timothy 2 We are called to intercede on the behalf of others. I really feel that's my calling: intercessory prayer. I'm still developing this gift. In fact, I would consider my development of this gift in it's infancy stage. Many times it's perfectly clear what I should pray about, and who I should intercede for. But then at other times, my times of 'dryness', I just have a hard time praying. I'll slip into a routine of focusing mainly on my own selfish needs and wants. It's difficult to be 'selfless' all the time. But we must always strive to put others needs before our own.
Lately, when I feel spiritually dry, I'll just pray to God asking who or what he wants me to pray for... Then the key to getting the answer is slowing down and being quiet enough to hear God's voice. And that's my other big, big, struggle: Busy-ness.
Today I pray for everyone who is too busy. For everyone who like me allows life get in the way of living for God. A good formula for success is to prioritize your life into these 3 simple categories: God First. Others Second. Self Last. I know that's a common saying or phrase. I've heard it many times. But this morning it's taking on a greater significance and meaning to me.
I'm very behind on my Purpose Driven Life Study but I promise I will catch up. I guess that's part of the placing God 'first' in your life category...!
Dear Heavenly Father, You are a God of Faithfulness. It is recorded many, many, times how you interceded in the lives of those who were called to Your purposes. Indeed, I look at my own life, Lord. And I see instance after instance where You've blessed me, restored me, and pretty much met my every need. Lord You are a God of miracles...!
Jesus, I ask today that You move powerfully in the lives of the Prayer Warriors (including myself). Help us to deal with this issue of being to 'Busy'. Even being busy with good deeds and 'Kingdom-Work' can be detrimental if it is done at the expense of a person's sanity.
Lord, specifically I intercede on behalf of my Brother John and Sister Becky. I pray they get really connected to You. I pray for my Brother in Law (also named John). He is the epitome of busy. But he is busy in pursuits that don't glorify You or necessarily benefit his family, either. Let Him know You, Lord. Father, I'd be remiss if I didn't pray on behalf of my nephews. Joey is running wild with no regard for himself or others around Him. I pray that You move in his life quickly and powerfully. Let there be no mistake that You have worked a miracle in his life, freeing him of his chemical dependencies. And drawing him to You.
Heavenly Father, As always I pray for my sweet wife, Monica. You are working many miracles in her life, freeing her from her bonds. Thank You Lord. Thank You for bringing her into my life. Thank You for the struggles we face that just make us stronger and stronger. Lord, Just continue to lift her up. Restore her. Season her words and her life for witnessing. Help her with Busyness. Help her have a productive day today. Please Lord, Divinely Inspire her to use her artistic talent and gift to Glorify You.
Father God, I just Love You. I Praise You and Worship You. I give this day to You.
Lord Jesus I pray these things in Your Holy Name, AMEN.
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
The Test of Faith
We all go through Tests of Faith from time to time. Indeed, it seems that the closer we draw to God then the more strenuous the tests become. Examine your own Faith issues. Is there an individual in your life that is difficult to love or a situation that seems impossible, or just doesn't make sense...? The bible is full of Tests of Faith. Look at Noah. He'd never even seen rain before and yet he spent 120 years building an Arc. Moses brought his people to the brink of the Red Sea with enemy forces closing in on them. Miraculously, the sea parted allowing their escape.
Friends, You may be experiencing a 'sticky' situation right now. My heart goes out to you if you are because I am, too. But I invite you to take heart and along with me, give it to Jesus Christ. The God who spoke the entire universe into existence is big enough to handle any problem of yours or mine....!
Jesus told us directly: 'In this world you will have troubles but fear not because I have overcome the world.'
We are commanded by Jesus Not to worry. Oh I struggle with that. But that is the 'old sam'. I need to plug in the 'New and Improved Sam'...! And You need to do the same. Won't You Trust in Jesus to meet your need...? Trust Him. Really Trust Him. Claim the Victory and it will be Yours.
Dear Lord, You are an Awesome God...! Able and Willing to bestow abundant blessings...! Father You know my needs and the needs of my wife, too. We trust You Dear Lord to meet our needs. You have said that You will never leave us or forsake us. You won't give us more than we can bear. You instructed us to ask and receive. Knock, and the door will be opened.
I'm knocking, Lord. And Monica's knocking, too. Father we pray that Your will be done in our particular circumstances. And what ever the outcome give us Your healing Grace to accept your blessing even if it doesn't seem like a blessing at the time. We can't see the end of the road, father. But You can. And we know that You have great plans for good in our lives. Lord, we rest in You. We trust in You.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for my many blessings. Blessings that many people take for granted. Thank You for my Health. Thank You for my sweet wife, Monica. Thank You for blessing us financially. Thank You Lord for family that loves me. But most of all Lord, Thank You for Your Son, Jesus Christ who died for My Salvation...! I love You, Lord. And in Jesus' name I pray,
Amen.
Friends, You may be experiencing a 'sticky' situation right now. My heart goes out to you if you are because I am, too. But I invite you to take heart and along with me, give it to Jesus Christ. The God who spoke the entire universe into existence is big enough to handle any problem of yours or mine....!
Jesus told us directly: 'In this world you will have troubles but fear not because I have overcome the world.'
We are commanded by Jesus Not to worry. Oh I struggle with that. But that is the 'old sam'. I need to plug in the 'New and Improved Sam'...! And You need to do the same. Won't You Trust in Jesus to meet your need...? Trust Him. Really Trust Him. Claim the Victory and it will be Yours.
Dear Lord, You are an Awesome God...! Able and Willing to bestow abundant blessings...! Father You know my needs and the needs of my wife, too. We trust You Dear Lord to meet our needs. You have said that You will never leave us or forsake us. You won't give us more than we can bear. You instructed us to ask and receive. Knock, and the door will be opened.
I'm knocking, Lord. And Monica's knocking, too. Father we pray that Your will be done in our particular circumstances. And what ever the outcome give us Your healing Grace to accept your blessing even if it doesn't seem like a blessing at the time. We can't see the end of the road, father. But You can. And we know that You have great plans for good in our lives. Lord, we rest in You. We trust in You.
Heavenly Father, I thank You for my many blessings. Blessings that many people take for granted. Thank You for my Health. Thank You for my sweet wife, Monica. Thank You for blessing us financially. Thank You Lord for family that loves me. But most of all Lord, Thank You for Your Son, Jesus Christ who died for My Salvation...! I love You, Lord. And in Jesus' name I pray,
Amen.
Monday, November 08, 2004
Testimony Time...
I took the day off from blogging yesterday. But here I am again. Back in action bright and early...! I had intended to spend a good chunk of time reading the Purpose Driven Life and getting completely caught up on that study. Sadly, I got involved in other projects and never made it back to the computer. But I will get caught up on that today. I have a big gap in my schedule at Columbia Lakes this morning and I'm going to use that time very wisely..!
Today I encourage everyone reading this blog to take an inventory of his or her life. Are You struggling with time management issues...? Having trouble getting your priorities straight...? Do you feel you are connecting to Jesus Christ enough in prayer...?
These are issues that I'm dealing with. I listen to a good deal of teaching ministries every day. I'm doing a great job at filling my head with bible knowledge. But aside from my daily prayer to start the day, and praying before meals, and maybe a few other times here or there throughout the day, I don't think my payer life is where it should be. And remember, this blog is supposed to be primarily about prayer. I have to be authentic here. And I've got to reveal that I'm in a spiritual 'slump'. So today's prayer will be about renewal once again. And I ask dear readers that You pray for me, too.
Dear Lord, I realize that as I draw closer to You that I can and should expect more satanic attacks. -Especially against my thought life. That's where all the big spiritual battles are waged... -In our heads... But Praise You Jesus it is written that Greater is He (You) that is in Me than He (the evil one) that is in the world. Lord I know Your Spirit dwells inside my heart and inside the heart of everyone who has accepted You as their Savior.
Father You are the Great One. Able to Do all things. You spoke the universe into existence. You made this earth and all life on it. Thank You Father. Thank You for my Life. Thank You for the relationships in my life. Lord I have made a mess of some of them. At times I have even made a mess of my own life. I really struggle with 'busy-ness'. But Lord I give that problem to You. Turn it around. Turn it into a good thing. Allow me to stay busy with Kingdom Work.
Lord don't allow me to be preoccupied with making money. Help me to trust in You better. I know You'll meet the Chadwell Family needs. And I believe You'll meet our needs without me having to work so much. And I believe that You'll meet our needs with such abundance that we'll be able to touch lives around us with the surplus. Lord I don't see how it's going to happen but that's where I just let Faith kick in. You have met our needs in the past and I know will meet our needs again.
Father I pray for renewal this morning. I need more of You. More of your Grace and Mercy. I want to touch lives for You Lord, but I have to have my own life in order first, don't I...? I'm weak today, Dear Jesus. But I pray for You to make me strong. Lift Me Up, Father. Draw me close to You. Fill me up with Your Spirit so that I may pour myself into the lives of others. Lord, fill me to overflowing. Let me experience the Joy that comes from walking more closely with You.
Father God I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. I claim the Victory You Promised. Thank You hearing my prayer, my cry for help. I will rest in You. And in Jesus' Name I Pray.
Today I encourage everyone reading this blog to take an inventory of his or her life. Are You struggling with time management issues...? Having trouble getting your priorities straight...? Do you feel you are connecting to Jesus Christ enough in prayer...?
These are issues that I'm dealing with. I listen to a good deal of teaching ministries every day. I'm doing a great job at filling my head with bible knowledge. But aside from my daily prayer to start the day, and praying before meals, and maybe a few other times here or there throughout the day, I don't think my payer life is where it should be. And remember, this blog is supposed to be primarily about prayer. I have to be authentic here. And I've got to reveal that I'm in a spiritual 'slump'. So today's prayer will be about renewal once again. And I ask dear readers that You pray for me, too.
Dear Lord, I realize that as I draw closer to You that I can and should expect more satanic attacks. -Especially against my thought life. That's where all the big spiritual battles are waged... -In our heads... But Praise You Jesus it is written that Greater is He (You) that is in Me than He (the evil one) that is in the world. Lord I know Your Spirit dwells inside my heart and inside the heart of everyone who has accepted You as their Savior.
Father You are the Great One. Able to Do all things. You spoke the universe into existence. You made this earth and all life on it. Thank You Father. Thank You for my Life. Thank You for the relationships in my life. Lord I have made a mess of some of them. At times I have even made a mess of my own life. I really struggle with 'busy-ness'. But Lord I give that problem to You. Turn it around. Turn it into a good thing. Allow me to stay busy with Kingdom Work.
Lord don't allow me to be preoccupied with making money. Help me to trust in You better. I know You'll meet the Chadwell Family needs. And I believe You'll meet our needs without me having to work so much. And I believe that You'll meet our needs with such abundance that we'll be able to touch lives around us with the surplus. Lord I don't see how it's going to happen but that's where I just let Faith kick in. You have met our needs in the past and I know will meet our needs again.
Father I pray for renewal this morning. I need more of You. More of your Grace and Mercy. I want to touch lives for You Lord, but I have to have my own life in order first, don't I...? I'm weak today, Dear Jesus. But I pray for You to make me strong. Lift Me Up, Father. Draw me close to You. Fill me up with Your Spirit so that I may pour myself into the lives of others. Lord, fill me to overflowing. Let me experience the Joy that comes from walking more closely with You.
Father God I love You. I give this day to You, Lord. I claim the Victory You Promised. Thank You hearing my prayer, my cry for help. I will rest in You. And in Jesus' Name I Pray.
Saturday, November 06, 2004
Prayer for the Weekend...
If You've been following my journal closely you've probably already asked, what happened to my Purpose Driven Life study...? Well, the truth is. I've gotten a bit behind. But, I plan to spend Sunday catching up.
Yesterday was a bit stressful for me. I had 4 appointments and I was late for every single one of them...! And One thing I really can't stand is to be late.
But here I am with a new day. Another opportunity to live for Christ. Of Course, I lived for Christ yesterday, but I sure had a lot of negative thoughts. Today, This Weekend, I'm getting on track. No Negative thoughts. And if life throws me a curve ball, I'll face it with the style and Grace of a true child of God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, just thank You for another day on Earth. Another chance to effect someone for You. I first of all pray for myself. Just bless me, Lord. Help me to be organized and on time today...! Let my words be seasoned with the Truth. Draw people close to me so I may positively influence them. Father, You have given me the gift of encouragement and intercession. Let me be especially encouraging today.
I have several prayer requests this morning, Lord. And I know You already know them, because you know everything. But here they are for the benefit of other prayer warriors who pray right along with me every day.
Father I ask You to lift up my Friend Debbie's new marriage. Bless her children also, Protect them, Lord. Send Godly people into their lives to be their witness and renew them so that they may know You and grow in You. My Friend Elizabeth has an issue with her brother, Lord. I ask that You transform both of them, Father. Open her Brother's eyes to the Truth. And give her Grace to continue being patient and to just wait on You.
Lord, You know all the issues my Friend Todd is dealing with. Father help me to help Him. Allow me to steer him to You. Lift him up, Lord. Restore Him. He knows of You, But he needs to Really Know You Personally. And Father, my Friend Norm from Church needs healing. I just place his health in Your Capable Hands. And for Lowell too, Lord... Heal his voice and keep him healthy.
Oh Heavenly Father, I ask these things with Faith and Expectancy that you are working on them right now. Indeed, that You were already at work before they were thoughts in my head. Thank You Father for Prayer. For being able to connect with You 24/7. Thank You for Your Love and Healing Grace.
I give this day, this weekend to You, Lord. Father I love You. I'm living today and every day for You, Lord. And Jesus, In Your Holy Name I Pray, AMEN.
Yesterday was a bit stressful for me. I had 4 appointments and I was late for every single one of them...! And One thing I really can't stand is to be late.
But here I am with a new day. Another opportunity to live for Christ. Of Course, I lived for Christ yesterday, but I sure had a lot of negative thoughts. Today, This Weekend, I'm getting on track. No Negative thoughts. And if life throws me a curve ball, I'll face it with the style and Grace of a true child of God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, just thank You for another day on Earth. Another chance to effect someone for You. I first of all pray for myself. Just bless me, Lord. Help me to be organized and on time today...! Let my words be seasoned with the Truth. Draw people close to me so I may positively influence them. Father, You have given me the gift of encouragement and intercession. Let me be especially encouraging today.
I have several prayer requests this morning, Lord. And I know You already know them, because you know everything. But here they are for the benefit of other prayer warriors who pray right along with me every day.
Father I ask You to lift up my Friend Debbie's new marriage. Bless her children also, Protect them, Lord. Send Godly people into their lives to be their witness and renew them so that they may know You and grow in You. My Friend Elizabeth has an issue with her brother, Lord. I ask that You transform both of them, Father. Open her Brother's eyes to the Truth. And give her Grace to continue being patient and to just wait on You.
Lord, You know all the issues my Friend Todd is dealing with. Father help me to help Him. Allow me to steer him to You. Lift him up, Lord. Restore Him. He knows of You, But he needs to Really Know You Personally. And Father, my Friend Norm from Church needs healing. I just place his health in Your Capable Hands. And for Lowell too, Lord... Heal his voice and keep him healthy.
Oh Heavenly Father, I ask these things with Faith and Expectancy that you are working on them right now. Indeed, that You were already at work before they were thoughts in my head. Thank You Father for Prayer. For being able to connect with You 24/7. Thank You for Your Love and Healing Grace.
I give this day, this weekend to You, Lord. Father I love You. I'm living today and every day for You, Lord. And Jesus, In Your Holy Name I Pray, AMEN.
Thursday, November 04, 2004
In Need of Some Grace
Yesterday I allowed doubt and anxiety to creep into my thought life. I guess You could say that I had a 'bad' day. Monica and I had some major air conditioning work done yesterday. And a few minutes after the workers had been coming and going out our front door I noticed that I couldn't find our new little kitty, Gabriel. I thought he was shut up in the bedroom with Jack and Hobbes but on closer inspection I realized that he wasn't in there.
I searched every nook and cranny of the house the rest of the morning and early afternoon to no avail. Oh, I stopped and prayed a little bit, but still I kept on worrying. I asked God to just fix my problem, period. I didn't really pray with all my heart, mind, and soul. And to make make matters worse there were lots and lots of distractions and other disappointments.
The police had set up a speed trap right in front of our house and were pulling people over, giving tickets, and hauling people to jail all morning. One car (a Ford Expedition) had an entire family of Mom and Dad, 5 kids, and a little dog. The Daddy was arrested and the vehicle was towed off. And the mom was screaming, the kids were crying, and the dog was barking. The Mom, kids, and dog stayed on and around the sidewalk of my front yard for nearly an hour until someone came and picked them up. One by one, the kids knocked on my door and asked to come in and use the bathroom. -All five of them...! It was a regular parade...! One of them asked me if I had any chips, that he hadn't had anything to eat all day. (it was nearly 12-noon). I didn't have any chips. Monica and I don't keep too much snack food on hand. So I gave him some candy that I had for tennis lessons. The family in the yard incident lasted about an hour. It was loud, and stressful. I knew the Christian thing to do was to invite the family in until help arrived for them but the kids were so unruly and the mom was so angry and hysterical, screaming at the police man I just turned my back on the situation. I felt very guilty about doing nothing. But still, I didn't do anything. I think Jesus would have treated them differently.
So, finally the family was picked up. And I still hadn't found Gabriel. Then, I had not one, but two private lessons cancel from my Columbia lakes afternoon schedule. Monica came home home from work and we found Gabriel, so that was good. But still, I was rushed and late leaving for work. About halfway into my trip I realized that I had forgotten the keys to my office at work. (more aggravation...)
My drive to work is about an hour and 15 minutes. That's always good, reflective, quiet time for me. During this time I realized just how unfaithful to God that I was... -And that made me more depressed. Sigh... I took an emotional beating yesterday. -But I gave it to myself. Armed with that revelation I'm going to do better today.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord God Almighty, Great Judge and King: Please Lord do not judge me harshly for slipping yesterday. Indeed, I allowed negative thoughts, worry and doubt into my heart and I am sorry, Lord. Forgive me. Cleanse me. Make me whole again. I know and believe that I can do all things through You who give me strength. You will never leave me. You work all things for good to those who are called to Your Purposes. You are my Rock. My Redeemer. No weapon formed against me will prosper. Jesus, I trust in You.
I will go forward today, Lord. I will Boldly Proclaim Your Glory...! I will be positive, confident, and quick to have faith that dispels doubt. When I pray Lord, I will pour my entire being into that prayer. Because you are worthy, so worthy of my Thanks and Praise, Glory and Honor.
Father I give this day, November 4th to You. Bless my path, Lord. And bless those I encounter today. Allow me to be a blessing to them. Let them see a positive attitude in the face of adversity. Renew me and transform me in Your image and likeness oh Lord.
Lord I love You. I thank You for Jesus' Blood which washes away my sins and sets me free. Thank You for adopting me into the Kingdom Family of God. In Your Precious son's Name I pray, AMEN.
I searched every nook and cranny of the house the rest of the morning and early afternoon to no avail. Oh, I stopped and prayed a little bit, but still I kept on worrying. I asked God to just fix my problem, period. I didn't really pray with all my heart, mind, and soul. And to make make matters worse there were lots and lots of distractions and other disappointments.
The police had set up a speed trap right in front of our house and were pulling people over, giving tickets, and hauling people to jail all morning. One car (a Ford Expedition) had an entire family of Mom and Dad, 5 kids, and a little dog. The Daddy was arrested and the vehicle was towed off. And the mom was screaming, the kids were crying, and the dog was barking. The Mom, kids, and dog stayed on and around the sidewalk of my front yard for nearly an hour until someone came and picked them up. One by one, the kids knocked on my door and asked to come in and use the bathroom. -All five of them...! It was a regular parade...! One of them asked me if I had any chips, that he hadn't had anything to eat all day. (it was nearly 12-noon). I didn't have any chips. Monica and I don't keep too much snack food on hand. So I gave him some candy that I had for tennis lessons. The family in the yard incident lasted about an hour. It was loud, and stressful. I knew the Christian thing to do was to invite the family in until help arrived for them but the kids were so unruly and the mom was so angry and hysterical, screaming at the police man I just turned my back on the situation. I felt very guilty about doing nothing. But still, I didn't do anything. I think Jesus would have treated them differently.
So, finally the family was picked up. And I still hadn't found Gabriel. Then, I had not one, but two private lessons cancel from my Columbia lakes afternoon schedule. Monica came home home from work and we found Gabriel, so that was good. But still, I was rushed and late leaving for work. About halfway into my trip I realized that I had forgotten the keys to my office at work. (more aggravation...)
My drive to work is about an hour and 15 minutes. That's always good, reflective, quiet time for me. During this time I realized just how unfaithful to God that I was... -And that made me more depressed. Sigh... I took an emotional beating yesterday. -But I gave it to myself. Armed with that revelation I'm going to do better today.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord God Almighty, Great Judge and King: Please Lord do not judge me harshly for slipping yesterday. Indeed, I allowed negative thoughts, worry and doubt into my heart and I am sorry, Lord. Forgive me. Cleanse me. Make me whole again. I know and believe that I can do all things through You who give me strength. You will never leave me. You work all things for good to those who are called to Your Purposes. You are my Rock. My Redeemer. No weapon formed against me will prosper. Jesus, I trust in You.
I will go forward today, Lord. I will Boldly Proclaim Your Glory...! I will be positive, confident, and quick to have faith that dispels doubt. When I pray Lord, I will pour my entire being into that prayer. Because you are worthy, so worthy of my Thanks and Praise, Glory and Honor.
Father I give this day, November 4th to You. Bless my path, Lord. And bless those I encounter today. Allow me to be a blessing to them. Let them see a positive attitude in the face of adversity. Renew me and transform me in Your image and likeness oh Lord.
Lord I love You. I thank You for Jesus' Blood which washes away my sins and sets me free. Thank You for adopting me into the Kingdom Family of God. In Your Precious son's Name I pray, AMEN.
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
Prayer for Our Nation
Dear Heavenly Father,
The Presidential election is not officially over. It's not completely clear who the winner is yet. Lord I just pray that we have some quick and decisive finality to it and that it is not marred by impropriety and lawsuits. Jesus, I know that who ever wins that Your hand is still on this Nation. It was a record voter turnout for both parties. That shows that many people do care about this country even if their views differ. I pray Lord that this country will be less and less divided as the days, weeks, months, and years go by.
Father, I pray for Chief Justice Rehnquist who is dying of Cancer. I pray for his successor, whoever that will be. Lord, I pray that You lift up new Supreme Court Judges who will uphold the beliefs and the will of our Founding Fathers who established the United States as: 'One Nation, Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for All...!'
Lord Jesus, I love You. I give this day to You, for Your Glory. And Bless me Father, to have a good and productive day. To grow in You and to spread the gospel in my words and actions.
Father I pray these things in Your Son's Name, AMEN.
The Presidential election is not officially over. It's not completely clear who the winner is yet. Lord I just pray that we have some quick and decisive finality to it and that it is not marred by impropriety and lawsuits. Jesus, I know that who ever wins that Your hand is still on this Nation. It was a record voter turnout for both parties. That shows that many people do care about this country even if their views differ. I pray Lord that this country will be less and less divided as the days, weeks, months, and years go by.
Father, I pray for Chief Justice Rehnquist who is dying of Cancer. I pray for his successor, whoever that will be. Lord, I pray that You lift up new Supreme Court Judges who will uphold the beliefs and the will of our Founding Fathers who established the United States as: 'One Nation, Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for All...!'
Lord Jesus, I love You. I give this day to You, for Your Glory. And Bless me Father, to have a good and productive day. To grow in You and to spread the gospel in my words and actions.
Father I pray these things in Your Son's Name, AMEN.
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
Prayer for the Election
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today a battle will be waged, Lord. I pray for Your will to be done in this up coming election. I pray that men and women with a biblical world view will win the election today. Lord Jesus, this land is in desperate need of healing. And Only You can restore us, Lord.
Father, I know many are praying to you right now for the same thing. Let our voices ring in one accord. I pray that voters will go out and vote for candidates who stand for the values you honor and cherish. Let's protect the unborn child. Let's preserve the sanctity of marriage as defined as a union between one man and one woman.
Lord, Thank You for allowing me to live in America, the land of Freedom. But don't allow that Freedom to destroy my way of life. Our founding fathers established this great country based on biblical principles that are now being trampled. There is a movement that is systematically removing You from every aspect of our public culture. Some don't even want Your name mentioned in our Pledge of allegiance...! In the immortal words of Patrick Henry: 'Forbid It, Almighty God...!'
Father I pray that Christians vote today. That we make a huge difference in the outcome of this election. Lord, let this be a revival across the land...! And may Your will be done.
Lord Jesus, I humbly come before You with this petition. And I Pray in Your Holy Name,
Amen.
Today a battle will be waged, Lord. I pray for Your will to be done in this up coming election. I pray that men and women with a biblical world view will win the election today. Lord Jesus, this land is in desperate need of healing. And Only You can restore us, Lord.
Father, I know many are praying to you right now for the same thing. Let our voices ring in one accord. I pray that voters will go out and vote for candidates who stand for the values you honor and cherish. Let's protect the unborn child. Let's preserve the sanctity of marriage as defined as a union between one man and one woman.
Lord, Thank You for allowing me to live in America, the land of Freedom. But don't allow that Freedom to destroy my way of life. Our founding fathers established this great country based on biblical principles that are now being trampled. There is a movement that is systematically removing You from every aspect of our public culture. Some don't even want Your name mentioned in our Pledge of allegiance...! In the immortal words of Patrick Henry: 'Forbid It, Almighty God...!'
Father I pray that Christians vote today. That we make a huge difference in the outcome of this election. Lord, let this be a revival across the land...! And may Your will be done.
Lord Jesus, I humbly come before You with this petition. And I Pray in Your Holy Name,
Amen.
Monday, November 01, 2004
Let it Rain...!
Worhip Leader Michael W Smith sings one of my favorite songs: 'Let it Rain'... And that's just what it's doing this morning. Chances are that my morning and possibly my afternoon classes will be rained out today. Normally I would be upset with that, but I see the inclement weather as an excellent opportunity to get caught up on things here at the house, including my Purpose Driven Life Study.
I'll be posting more later this morning, but here's my morning prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You Lord for a bit of rain to slow me down and allow me to organize myself and get caught up on things. Lord Jesus, I want to Thank You also for blessing me financially for another month and allowing Monica and I to meet our obligations. I pray that we grow to be better stewards of the resources you provide us. You are an awesome Provider. Even when there is seemingly no way we're going to make it, then Your Blessings pour down like rain on us. I Praise You, Lord Jesus!
Father, I give this day to You. I will make it a very productive day in Your name, Lord. I may not see people on the tennis court today, but I pray that I can encouage and motive others through phone calls and emails. Season my words. Let me say just the right thing to make a difference in someone's life.
Lord, I know many people within my sphere of influence that are lost and many who are seeking. I want to influence these for You, Lord. I lift them up this morning. Lord prepare their hearts for You.
I'd like to lift up my Sister, Becky in New York. Today is her Birthday. I pray that today would be her spiritual birthday, too Lord. I pray that she would find a bible believing church and dedicate the rest of her life to You, Heavenly Father. And that the Holy Spirit would fall upon her and annoint her. Lord, I pray that her relationship with You will transform her family.
There are many requests out there. There's my Friend Todd. There's Lashon. There's Chuck. My Friend Doug just lost his Grandfather. My Friend Eddie is having some struggles. My Brother John... There's the upcoming election... Lord, there are far too many to list here, but you know what they are. You know my heart. You know the hearts of the Prayer Warriors. I pray that Your will be done in the lives of those seeking You. And I pray that those whose heart's door You are knocking on right now... I pray that they answer that door and that Your Glory be revealed to them. Again, Father I pray that I be used as an instrument to win and influence others for You.
Lord, I love You. I need You. I worship and Praise You. Thank You for hearing my Prayer. Thanks for being both an awesome God and an intimate friend. Father God, I pray these things in Your Son Jesus's name, AMEN.
I'll be posting more later this morning, but here's my morning prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You Lord for a bit of rain to slow me down and allow me to organize myself and get caught up on things. Lord Jesus, I want to Thank You also for blessing me financially for another month and allowing Monica and I to meet our obligations. I pray that we grow to be better stewards of the resources you provide us. You are an awesome Provider. Even when there is seemingly no way we're going to make it, then Your Blessings pour down like rain on us. I Praise You, Lord Jesus!
Father, I give this day to You. I will make it a very productive day in Your name, Lord. I may not see people on the tennis court today, but I pray that I can encouage and motive others through phone calls and emails. Season my words. Let me say just the right thing to make a difference in someone's life.
Lord, I know many people within my sphere of influence that are lost and many who are seeking. I want to influence these for You, Lord. I lift them up this morning. Lord prepare their hearts for You.
I'd like to lift up my Sister, Becky in New York. Today is her Birthday. I pray that today would be her spiritual birthday, too Lord. I pray that she would find a bible believing church and dedicate the rest of her life to You, Heavenly Father. And that the Holy Spirit would fall upon her and annoint her. Lord, I pray that her relationship with You will transform her family.
There are many requests out there. There's my Friend Todd. There's Lashon. There's Chuck. My Friend Doug just lost his Grandfather. My Friend Eddie is having some struggles. My Brother John... There's the upcoming election... Lord, there are far too many to list here, but you know what they are. You know my heart. You know the hearts of the Prayer Warriors. I pray that Your will be done in the lives of those seeking You. And I pray that those whose heart's door You are knocking on right now... I pray that they answer that door and that Your Glory be revealed to them. Again, Father I pray that I be used as an instrument to win and influence others for You.
Lord, I love You. I need You. I worship and Praise You. Thank You for hearing my Prayer. Thanks for being both an awesome God and an intimate friend. Father God, I pray these things in Your Son Jesus's name, AMEN.
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