One thing really wonderful about this book is that not only can I apply these things to my life but the next chapter adds to it beautifully! Example being prayer leads to submission with God. It bends our will to His every time we talk to Him!
E. Stanley Jones said-
"If I throw out a boathook from the boat and catch hold of the shore and pull, do I pull the shore to me, or do I pull myself to the shore? Prayer is not pulling God to my will, but the aligning of my will to the will of God."
Barbara reminds us of five interactions we should aim to have with God.
Meditation-
This is not only reading and re-reading the bible it is a verbal commitment to His word. It is taking the scriptures saying them aloud and committing to memory.
Confession-
Although this can take place anytime it is very important to keep it first in devotional time. I find that my pride keeps me from asking forgiveness. However there is NO excuse for un-confessed sin! Hidden sin may come into the light as you study or as you interact with other people. Either way it is vital to include.
Adoration-
Telling God what we treasure about Him is such a precious time! And yet out of all things it is the one I forget the most. "Reverence for God makes us aware of our own humble state."
It is an act of worship and cannot wait till Sunday! Can we adore him enough?
Submission-
Our prayer should result in yielding of every part of ourselves. Our dreams, our worries, our desires, even our sin. Remember that prayer IS worship and prayer IS submission!
Petition-
The four parts above are key in preparing us for this last one. I think the most important thing about petition is continual prayer. If we must ask for something. Then we MUST continue to talk to God. If I need something from a friend I would certainly choose one I had invested in! Not just an acquaintance.
I hope this new year will bring not only a fresh start but especailly a closer more loving realationship with you and your God!!
XOXO
Faith Mae
E. Stanley Jones said-
"If I throw out a boathook from the boat and catch hold of the shore and pull, do I pull the shore to me, or do I pull myself to the shore? Prayer is not pulling God to my will, but the aligning of my will to the will of God."
Barbara reminds us of five interactions we should aim to have with God.
Meditation-
This is not only reading and re-reading the bible it is a verbal commitment to His word. It is taking the scriptures saying them aloud and committing to memory.
Confession-
Although this can take place anytime it is very important to keep it first in devotional time. I find that my pride keeps me from asking forgiveness. However there is NO excuse for un-confessed sin! Hidden sin may come into the light as you study or as you interact with other people. Either way it is vital to include.
Adoration-
Telling God what we treasure about Him is such a precious time! And yet out of all things it is the one I forget the most. "Reverence for God makes us aware of our own humble state."
It is an act of worship and cannot wait till Sunday! Can we adore him enough?
Submission-
Our prayer should result in yielding of every part of ourselves. Our dreams, our worries, our desires, even our sin. Remember that prayer IS worship and prayer IS submission!
Petition-
The four parts above are key in preparing us for this last one. I think the most important thing about petition is continual prayer. If we must ask for something. Then we MUST continue to talk to God. If I need something from a friend I would certainly choose one I had invested in! Not just an acquaintance.
I hope this new year will bring not only a fresh start but especailly a closer more loving realationship with you and your God!!
XOXO
Faith Mae
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