Category: Prayers For Life Changes

God Invented Childhood Games…Do You Engage?

On By tgifmastermindsIn Prayers About God and Me, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For Understanding5 Comments
Free photo
A family that plays together stays together! So, why not include your Imaginary Friend?

Many, many, many years ago when I was a little girl, my Daddy used to play a game with me.  And I knew exactly the time he was ready to play our special game by the way he approached me.  His clues were if he approached me slightly bent over, slowly taking giant steps, wearing a great big smile on his face, and looking me straight in the eyes, that was my clue to stand up straight, with my hands at my side and wait.

The closer he got to me the more his right arm would raise up with his first finger pointing towards my forehead.   Then he would gently tap my forehead and say, ‘I live up here…’ next he would run his finger down the middle of my face, neck and chest and poke my stomach and say, ‘You live down here…’ next he would race his finger back the way it came down and say, ‘Come up and see me sometime.’  Then he would pick me up, twirl me around and around and belt out a hearty laugh.  Afterwards, he would put me down, swat me on the butt and say, ‘Now go play, Snooky, Daddy’s got to go to work.’

Snooky was my nickname.  Daddy gave all his 5 children nicknames.  My two sisters were Pheedie, and Cottontop.  My two brothers were Headquarters and Duffy.  And I was Snooky.

Oh, did I feel special whenever I played that game with my Dad.  Oh, did I feel loved.  Oh, did I know that my Daddy was the greatest person on God’s green earth!!!  And anybody who doubted that and challenged my assessment of him got a bloody noise.

OUR HEAVENLY FATHER KNOWS HOW TO PLAY CHILDHOOD GAMES, TOO!

Today I listened to one of my neighbors (I’ll call her Bea) as she described a foolish situation that she carried out after first being warned to reconsider it.  Bea decided after her breakfast that she would walk four blocks to the drug store to purchase some items.  She peeked outside and noticed that it was very cloudy.  Her Imaginary Friend whispered in her ear and told her to put on a sweater and take her umbrella.  

Bea said to herself, ‘Oh, I won’t be long, and I’ll be back before it rains.’  So out the door she went.  Just as she had completed walking the third block, she heard a loud thunderclap and instantly felt a down pouring of rain.  At the corner was a Quick Stop gas station and she horridly ran inside.  Now what am I going to do? she asked Imaginary friend.  Complete silence.  I should have listened to my first thought, she whispered to herself.

Where Did Bea Go Wrong?

Bea’s first thought was not her own.  It was her Imaginary Friend’s guidance.  What Bea and a lot of other people don’t realize is that a person’s first thoughts about a decision is their purest thought or their most ‘godly’ thought.  And the Imaginary Friend is the Holy Spirit!  Jesus said in Hebrews 13:5 that He would never leave or forsake us…not even in our play time.  Most conversations that commence in one’s head after the initial thought are the individual’s ‘worldly’ thoughts and ideas.  Several Believers trust themselves more than they trust the Heavenly Father!

I trusted my Daddy…Why?…Because He lives up here and I leave down there, and he invites me to come up to see him sometimes.

If only we could think of our Imaginary Friend as our Heavenly Father and follow His advice instead of interjecting our own worldly thoughts, we would be on the road to living a more fulfilling life.   We would be equipped to send up more praises and accolades to Christ Jesus.  We would be much more appreciative of how He guides and protects us every day.  We could allow our petitions and supplications to shape our worries and cares in our prayer lives.  That way, we would be wholly dependent on God.

The main reason why you should trust God is written below:

Quote about trusting God.
So, raise your feet and remove the rope’s knot. Then take a walk along the beach with God. You’ll find that there is only one set of foot prints in the sand.

Scripture Lesson: “Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.'” Matthew 19:14

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Reigns Over Every Holiday

On By tgifmastermindsIn How To Pray For Others, Prayers About Superstitions, Prayers For Life Changes8 Comments
Woman next to a question mark

Do Christians know enough about the history of every holiday listed within a 12 month calendar and why it is celebrated?

The answer to the above question is…I doubt it! And I also don’t believe that anyone can provide scientific proof as to why most people believe that the number 13 is an unlucky number. Yet many office buildings do not have a 13th floor, nor do their elevators stop on the 13th floor; nor do brides want to get married on Friday the 13th; nor do society’s affluent schedule a dinner party for 13 guests! And as a former builder manager for a large automobile company, I personally had to accommodate many potential lessees who demanded that their leases be back dated if their closing date fell on a Friday the 13th.

Hog wash you say…Don’t be so naive! In a little more than a week from now, many Americans will be celebrating a very popular holiday which always falls on the 31st day of a particular month. It is highly possible that if you were to randomly ask ten people to name at least five annual holidays and recite why each one is celebrated, the majority of the participants would draw a blank after naming only three. Well, this week I engaged the Holy Spirit and inquired of Him if the holidays I celebrated or supported were in line with our Lord and Savior. This conversation came up because for some reason my mail box is filled daily with junk mail and also requests for financial donations from many familiar and unfamiliar charitable organizations. Also, very soon, little people will be going from door to door soliciting candy and other treats from their neighbors. (I don’t turn on the porch light.)

What’s a Christian senior living on a fixed income to do?

The scriptures I received from on High all referenced that holiday coming up which always falls on the 31st day of a particular month. I’m not certain why this was, but maybe because it is the most celebrated holiday that can penetrate the very fiber of a man’s inner spirit…especially as he or she ages and if they have become Christians. And after all, our God is a Jealous God and wants His children to be victorious over every phase of their lives. So, listed below are the ten scriptures I received that have blessed me and hopefully to fortify and strengthen you and your loved ones. Be my guests and take an imaginary walk through this beautiful fall scene and just think about the goodness of our Lord and commune with Him about anything for just a little while. My prayer for you is veiled in these ten scriptures which mostly relate to the 31st day of a particular month: for the record, let’s call that month “October”. I also did my research and got a better understanding of what that holiday stands for and how it originated centuries ago.

Scripture Lesson:

“You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord’s table and the table of demons.”  1 Corinthians 10:21
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”  Ephesians 5:11
“Be self-controlled and alert.  Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”  1 Peter 5:8
“Test everything.  Hold on to the good.  Avoid every kind of evil.”  1 Thessalonians 5:21-22
“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil.”  Isaiah 5:20
“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”  Ephesians 5:15-16
“Submit yourselves, then, to God.  Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”  James 4:7
“This is the verdict:  Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.    Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear his deeds will be exposed.”  John 3:19-20
“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.  However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”  Luke 10:19-20
“And give no opportunity to the devil.”  Ephesians 4:27

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Has A Remedy For Negativity!

On By tgifmastermindsIn Instruction on how to disciple others, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth3 Comments

What so ever things are lovely…

Who are you?  How many “selves” do you recognize?  Which of your “selves” is the most dominant?  And finally, which one of your “multi-selves” is the least dominant?

Now, you might ask, ‘Where is she going with this?’

Well, the goal I am trying to accomplish is this.  I believe if a person knows who they are when they wake up; who they are at noon; and who they are at bedtime; then they will be able to concentrate on their character “selves” that associate with positive emotions rather than counteracting on the “selves” that associate with negative emotions.

Are you following me? Let me explain…

God’s remedy for negativity is to count your blessings and name them one by one. So, the first thing I want you to do is physically count the number of “selves” you see in yourself as it relates to your health and well being. Don’t slight yourself. The more character roles you can identify–such as son or daughter, wife or husband, niece or nephew, aunt or uncle, student, artist, lawyer, doctor, friend, Indian chief–you get the message, etc., the less likely negative emotions such as depression will consume you and as a result, which could effect your overall health.

So, if any one of your “selves” is depressed during the day, you should immediately control your mind to think on that dynamic self that is a writer and start composing (in your mind or at the computer) the next electrifying blog that you will post. All those positive emotions that fill your heart about writing just could actually offset that negative disposition that is trying to flood your soul.

My prayer for you is that you memorize a few of the scriptures listed below and recite them when you are feeling low and despondent. Only believe and have the faith that everything will turn out all right.

Scripture Lesson:

1. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. Philippians 4:8
2. Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2
3. My son do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity. Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:1-4
4. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing, and perfect will. Romans 12:2
5. Therefore, if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Philippians 2:1-2
6. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-19
7. My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words. Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health to one’s whole body. Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil. Proverbs 4:20-27
8. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6:18
9. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22 
 10. May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14

Don’t forget…let’s remember that we are not a product of ‘one’. The Good Lord made us a composite of many dispositions. Let us engage with the ‘self’ that best represents the character of Jesus Christ in all of our dealings with life’s situations.

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Disposes But Man Proposes!

On By tgifmastermindsIn Opposites in the bible, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth17 Comments
OOPs! God Wants Us To Think Outside The Box.

And again I say…OOPs!  For this week’s blog title, I have used an antithesis form of speech. Why?  Because I thought the title above would infuse the curiosity of my readers more than the title: “God Uses Opposites To Express Himself On How To Obtain Righteousness”.

Now I ask you…did it work?  Are you still with me?  Have I piqued your interest enough for you to read this blog all the way through?

Well, if nothing else, you’ve learned the definition of a new word…Antithesis!  That word refers to the juxtaposition (two things with contracting views) of opposing or contrasting ideas.  And we all know that the Bible is full of opposites expressed not only by God in the creation story in Genesis, but also by Jesus Christ, the Apostle Paul, and many other New Testament writers.

Below I have listed a few examples found in Genesis Chapter One that depict an antithesis form of speech or writing:

  • Light and darkness
  • Day and night
  • Earth and Sky
  • Morning and evening
  • Land and sea
  • Sun and Moon
  • Male and female

Now let’s apply scripture to the proverb that God disposes but man proposes. 

  • “Many are the plans in a human heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21
  • “To human beings belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.”  Proverbs 16:1
  • “The Lord works out everything to its proper end—even the wicked for a day of disaster.”  Proverbs 16:4
  • “In their hearts human beings plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”  Proverbs 16:9

If you wanted to compose a sentence to share that will better explain the antitheses, you could say that even when man gives his very best to a project, in the end, it is up to fate whether man’s efforts will work out or not.  Thus, Man proposes, but God disposes (brings things to fruition or extinction).

So do not be discouraged when you read opposites in the bible.  Rather, get wisdom and in all thy getting, get an understanding about God’s word.  Study to show yourself approved and allow the Holy Spirit to show you how to rightly divide the word of truth.

The moral of the story:

Recently, I was invited to teach on several scriptures from the Book of Hebrews.  The assignment called for me to first read a short story found in Our Daily Bread magazine and use it as the basis for my scripture teaching.  Because the magazine story did not fully blend in with the overall theme of Hebrews, I had to pray hard for the Holy Spirit to help me connect the dots. This is the message the Holy Spirit communed with me:  Do not reduce holy mysteries to slogans and catchy stories, my sister.  In trying to be relevant, you are only being cute and in violation or misuse of what is regarded as sacred.  Having a knack for generating ‘amens’ from your audience won’t get you anywhere with the Master.  In fact, you will reap what you sow.   You can imagine, I stuck with the overall theme of Hebrews…the Old Covenant vs the New Covenant.  I was careful not to propose anything in my teaching that the Lord would dispose.

My prayer for you:

Dear Heavenly Father, we give You all the glory, honor, and praise for loving us so much that You sent down the Holy Spirit to teach and instruct us in the way of righteousness.  For you used juxtaposition terminology to instruct us in how to recognize what is life-generating and what leads to death-infused conduct.  Basically, we must embrace faith, exhibit love and practice endurance as we live out our lives and administer hope to our fellowman.  It is our prayer that You will continue to shower us with Your wisdom so that we might become more like You.  We ask that all of these various teaching methods be a blessing to others…in the mighty Name of Jesus we ask it all.  Amen.

Scripture Lesson:  “Whoever pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.” Proverbs 21:21

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God said: “Hold On To My Unchanging Hand”

On By tgifmastermindsIn Prayers About Biblical End Times, Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New BeginningsLeave a comment
The World Trade Center in the 1970s - The Bowery Boys: New York City History
“Twin Towers” New York Trade Center…BEFORE”

Did you know, my friends, that intended evil deeds can eventually become intended good deeds in God’s hands?

Who knew?

Certainly not the people in New York or any other American city on that horrific Tuesday morning, September 11, 2001. For as you know, on an annually bases, every September 11, we commiserate this attack on the United States of America, which was carried out by a militant Islamist group known as al-Qaeda. A series of four coordinated attacks were planned, but one failed.

This particular year, 2021, should be especially notable for Christians who like to equate such memorial events to biblical prophesies and related scriptures. For we are reminded in Hebrews 13:14 (NIV) “For here we do not have an enduring city, but we are looking for the city that is to come.“

New York Times Blames 'Airplanes' For Attack On Twin Towers On 9/11 - The Police Tribune
“Twin Towers” New York Trade Center…AFTER”

Another biblical comparison to the timing of this event that we are celebrating during 2021 are the events that occurred in Genesis 37:1-36. There we find the tragic events around Joseph being sold into slavery by his own brothers. Just like the events of 9/11, this incident, too, was meant for evil, but God meant it for good.

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20

Joseph’s brothers thereafter had to live their lives in fear filled with lies and deceptions. However, Joseph’s life found fulfillment and rewards and eventually his life flourished in the midst of this tragedy with only a few exceptions. For 20 years later after being abandant by his brothers, they had to come to him in Egypt for judgement.

Just how did Joseph flourish in the midst of tragedy imposed by his brothers? We don’t have to speculate. Some 20 years later the roles were reversed. Joseph was now the overseer of Pharaoh’s Egypt. Joseph was the strong one and his brothers the weak ones. They came to him in dread for their survival. They feared he would settle the score and throw them into a pit of his own making. But Joseph didn’t. And in his explanation we find solace in his inspirational forgiveness statement quoted in Genesis 50:20.

This year, 2021, marks 20 years since that dreadful day when America lost so many lives and uprooted so many families and generations to come. Let us remember to keep the faith and to hold on to God’s unchanging hand and give place for the words in Hebrews 13:14. For every true Christian should be looking forward to that blessed city not made by hands.

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Christians! If you are in a night of trial, think on these things; cheer up, nourish your heart with thoughts of the coming Savior. Be patient for ‘Lo, I am with you always,’ saith the Lord Almighty!


Scripture Lesson: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

 

God Does Not Change

On By tgifmastermindsIn Instruction on how to disciple others, Prayers About God and Me, Prayers For Life ChangesLeave a comment

Recently, my former women’s bible study group extended an invitation to me to come back as a guest speaker and teach on a specific subject from the September 2021 issue of the “Our Daily Bread” devotional magazine.  Of course, I gladly accepted their invitation and immediately set my heart, mind, and prayers on calling upon the Holy Spirit to direct and guild my preparation efforts for this humbling event.

After reading the assigned story and the Biblical scriptures (Hebrews 13:11-16) that accompanied the magazine article it was surmised that the Apostle Paul (the author of Hebrews) wanted to exhort those who are faithful in the ministry of the Lord’s holy word to keep on praising Him, not just inside the confines of familiar and comfortable surroundings, but also outside their sphere of normalcy as well…where the less fortunate reside. 

Yes, we are to keep on loving others including the unlovable; to keep on trusting in God to resolve difficult situations; to keep on respectfully responding to pastoral leaders in the church, notwithstanding those in government; and finally, to keep on praying without ceasing in the Name of Jesus our High Priest, through Whom we have access to God.  Why?  Because therein we bolster our confidence to walk by faith and not by sight.   Ask yourself this question…”Why should I change, and not do these things that Paul admonished, especially when God does not change!”

So, as I prepare to deliver a message on “Outside the Camp”, I solicit your prayers that the teaching points I impart to the ladies will come directly from scripture and the mindset of the Holy Spirit.

THIS IS NO TIME TO REST AND TAKE OUR LEAVE!

The times we are living in today are hard times for us all.  And you can imagine just how difficult it must be for those living within the margins of life.  The ‘haves’ are being called upon to help and assist the ‘have-nots’.  We must become a friend to the friendless.  A bridge over troubled waters. We must pray for the peace of Jerusalem and the world.  We must use and distribute our bounty wisely and in ways that pleases our Maker.  Remember that the more we give (from the heart) the more He gives to you.

 

Volunteer and/or give where ever you can.

Scripture Lesson: “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. Luke 6:38 

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Got My Immediate Attention!

On By tgifmastermindsIn Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For New Beginnings, Prayers For Spiritual Growth7 Comments
When God’s son, Jesus Christ, calls your name twice, He really gets your attention!

How many friends, family members and acquaintances do you know that addresses people not by their given names, but rather by using a euphemism (a mild or indirect word or expression) that in most cases depicts an endearing term that shows hospitality and love?

For example, I often greet family and friends by saying, “Hello Lovie. How are you?” If a conversation pursues, I’m guilty of peppering my sentences with “Lovie” a few more times to make a point. Now, I’m not saying that this is all bad. I’m just saying that this week my eyes were opened to the realization that perhaps I might want to just curtail using the expression of “Lovie” as a substitute for addressing a person by their legitimate name.

Here is why…

This week my bible prayer group started reading 1st Samuel, a book in the Bible. A very popular story in that book is the one about the young lad, Samuel, who had a dream while living in a priestly commune (temple) with the prophet Eli. Samuel was awakened from his dream twice by someone calling him. Samuel thought it was Eli so he got up and went to Eli. Since Eli had not been the one who called unto Samuel, Eli instructed Samuel what to say if he heard his named called a third time. Finally, the Lord did call his name again, but this time He called out, “Samuel! Samuel!” and He got Samuel’s attention. Samuel’s response was, “Here I am Lord. Speak, for your servant is listening” (1st Samuel 3:1-10).

I am very familiar with that story as I am sure you are too. But this time Samuel’s encounter with the Lord really got my attention and I wondered how many times was a double salutation used to call somebody in the Old and New Testaments. My research revealed that throughout all sixty-six books in the entire Bible, only nine people and one city were addressed by calling their names twice.

I immediately called upon the Holy Spirit and asked if we could have a little conversation…

In my spirit I began to realize that every time an individual was called by name twice, he or she was elevated to a greater and higher position of importance in the scheme of things in the Bible.

  1. Abraham! Abraham! He became the Father of Many Nations . (Genesis 22:11-13)
  2. Jacob! Jacob! He became a great nation siring 12 tribes. And his name was changed to Israel. (Genesis 46:1-4)
  3. Moses! Moses! He was assigned to become a deliverer of God’s people. (Exodus 3:1-10)
  4. Samuel! Samuel! He was young at the time, but God was grooming him to be a priest, prophet, and judge. (1 Samuel 3:1-10)
  5. Martha! Martha! She was the sister to Mary and Lazarus. Martha was taught from being anxious about many things in life. (Luke 10:38-42)
  6. Simon! Simon! Also known as Peter. He learned to rely on Jesus instead of his own self. (Luke 22:31-32)
  7. Saul! Saul! Also known later as Paul. He changed from persecuting Christians to teaching them. (Acts 9:4)
  8. Lord! Lord! This was the title people began to use with their lips but not with their hearts. (Matthew 7:21-22, 25:11: Luke 6:46; 13:25)
  9. Eloi! Eloi! Definition for “My God, My God” that people still call on today. (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34; Psalm 22:1)
  10. Jerusalem! Jerusalem! The name given to the only city in the Bible that was elevated to prominence. (Matthew 23:37 and Luke 13:34)

This is the conclusion of the matter…

If and when God calls your name TWICE, will you recognize him and answer the call? Will Jesus get your attention? I truly believe that God has a place and an assignment for each and every one of us to perform. He is no respecter of person. What he has done for others, he will do for you! So, for goodness sake…don’t miss it when God calls your name…TWICE!

My prayer for you…

Dear Heavenly Father: First of all, I want to thank You for knowing our names and just where we are at any given moment. We also wish to thank You for Your divine organizational structure, for it is written in Ecclesiastes 3:1-3 that “There is timing and purpose for everything in God. There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven…And a time to heal.” So, dear Jesus, please find all of us in good health, good spirits, good moral living conditions, and good hearts for service in Your vineyards. May we all use good common sense and good judgment and be submissive to the instructions of the Holy Spirit and to always remember that love never fails when carrying out Your decrees and directions for our lives. We humbly come laying these prayers at the feet of Jesus. Amen!

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Click the song title below. (Skip the commercial.)

2:22I’ll Be Somewhere Listening For My Name

Scripture Lesson: He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, (2 Timothy 1:9 NIV)

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God Never Revokes Your Prayers…You Do!

On By tgifmastermindsIn Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For Peace7 Comments
Prayer Changes Things: I called the Lord and He heard my cry by [Tafiska Nyasulu Ndovi]
Remember to thank God first BEFORE asking!

Did you know that prayer changes things?  Notice, I said prayer changes things…not changes God’s mind.  To think that our prayers changes God’s mind is presumptuous thinking.  For we read in Malachi 3:6 that “I (God) the Lord do not change”.  So, our best bet when partitioning God’s throne is just to pray that God’s will be done, and not our own. You do this by praying His word back to him.

Some time ago, a guest minister was invited to speak at a church I used to belong too.  Her message to the awaiting congregation was spirit-filled and impacted practically all in attendance.  She expounded on ways to use God’s holy word when praying specifically for life’s situations.  For surely, as you know, one of the main ways that God works in our lives is through praise and worship.

Here is what the itinerant preacher had to say on just how to partition God’s throne in the most positive method.  First, she asked the awaiting congregation the following questions:  Do you want God to ‘show up’ in due season with HIS answers to your prayers?  Or do you abandon your partitions when you do not receive a reply instantly?  Or worst yet…do you commence ‘helping’ God by taking the situation into your own hands?

The preacher recommended that when praying, begin your prayer time with God by using scripture that implores Him to do something anew for you as he has already demonstrated he can and did do in your past.  For example, pray a thankful doxology prayer first and make it a personal confession: 

Dear Holy and Everlasting Father, I thank you for blessing me and keeping me all the days of my life.  I sincerely am appreciative that you make your face to shine upon me, and you are gracious towards me.  May you always turn your face towards me and give me peace.  (Revised from Numbers 6:24)

After praying the above introductory statements, continue with your new partitions by using more scriptures, quoting chapter and verse.  Here are a few examples:

Now, Dear Jesus, according to Ephesians 1:17, 18 and 19, I sincerely ask that You bless me with the spirit of wisdom, the hope of your calling and the exceeding greatness of your power as I lead your people on this awesome journey to…(name the place or situation)

Now, Sweet Jesus, just as it is written in Ephesians 3:16, I beseech Thee to keep me and strengthen me with Thy might and holy spirit and cause me to be routed and grounded in love…as I go forth in Your Name to…(name your situation here)

Now, Holy Father and Lord of my life, just as it is written in 1 Peter 1:4, I humbly approach Your throne of grace to ask You to keep me from the corruption that is in the world through lust and pornography and to keep me from falling and present me faultless before the presence of Your glory with exceeding joy as it is also written in Jude 24.  Amen and Amen!

I ask you…are you getting the picture of what the itinerant preacher had to say?  I do heartedly hope so.

psalms chapter 1 verse 3
Practice makes perfect…Just keep praying

So, I will close with this prayer for you…

Dear Lord, may Your face shine upon all those who call upon Your Holy and Righteous Name as Your people make Your ways known upon the earth (Psalms 67:2)   And may their efforts under the guidance of the Holy Spirit turn many to righteousness (Daniel 12:3) with a zeal for good works. Amen.  (Matthew 5:1). 

Scripture Lesson: “Thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him (2 Corinthians 2:14).

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Desires For His Disciples To Grow Spiritually

On By tgifmastermindsIn Prayers For Life Changes, Prayers For Peace, Prayers For Spiritual Growth11 Comments
“Study to show yourself approved…”

How does one measure spiritual growth?  But to put it more succinctly, how does God measure spiritual growth?  My personal response is based on the Holy Scriptures:

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15
“But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.”  Ephesians 4:7 KJV

You might be tempted to measure spiritual growth with the same yardstick as one would measure personal growth, but you would be ‘dead’ wrong.  I put the word dead in bold letters and single quotes because the duration of our personal lives end in death; but the duration of our spiritual lives live on for eternity!

Let’s explore this week’s conversation with God a little deeper…

Earlier this week I received a troubling phone call from a senior friend exclaiming that the Holy Spirit had been troubling her all morning placing me on her mind.  The caller was perplexed and sought through prayer what it was she was to say to me.  My friend said the mental inclination was that she was instructed to give me three scriptures to read and meditate over:  namely, Matthew 18:18, 19 and 20.

          18 “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven and whatever you lose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19  “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.  20  For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”

Now, this form of communication might seem strange to you, but since I, too, experience this kind of interaction with spiritual encounters, I listened to my friend’s telephone message with great enthusiasm.

So, after our conversation ended, I immediately began to read and search the scriptures to see under what situation/condition these biblical verses were dispensed by Jesus.  This messianic teaching was given to church members who attempted to restore fallen members back into the congregation.  If, after making several unsuccessful attempts to reunite the fallen members to the fold, and they do not listen, then you are to treat them as though they were a pagan or a tax collector.

Prayerfully, I conversed with the Holy Spirit and inquired what does this scripture message have to do with me. I received this answer:  You will recall that a couple of weeks ago you asked for godly intervention on resolving a disagreement you were having with a family member.  You are to apply these scriptures to your situation and therein you will find the godly answer. 

The main question according to Matt. 18:15 is whether the ‘sister or brother’ is a member of the Household of Faith and has accepted the sonship of Christ Jesus.  Seemingly, this information is important when counseling the individual in question.  If the individual has accepted Christ as their personal Savior, I am to attempt to agree in conversation with them the teachings of the Lord.  If, however, the individual in question is not a Believer, extend an invitation to them to consider following Christ just as you would a tax collector or pagan.  God alone will judge both performances and lovingly act in both persons best interest…yours and your (temporary) foe.

Blessed Reassurance…

This was my first case wherein I received a PERSONAL response from God and had my prayer answered direct from on High.  Words cannot express how blessed I felt to have receive that heavenly telephone call from my friend.  She admitted to me that she did not know under what circumstances she was led to contact me…all she knew was that she could not rest until she had delivered the message.  Hallelujah to her obedience and faithfulness. In other words, God wanted me to continue to grow in finding ways to resolve spiritual matters. Why? Because it is extremely necessary for each and every child of God to grow daily in our spiritual walk, and to increase our faith and to become stronger witnesses in his service.

My prayer for you and me…  

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your intervention in this matter. Please direct my steps in turning back to You for direction. I praise You for the prosperity that You have planned for me, for the heavenly future that You have prepared for me and your children. My continued prayer will be that all those persons who still reside out of the ark of safety will hear the Gospel, repent and accept Your invitation to take up the blood-stained banner of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen and Amen

Scripture Lesson: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”  Colossians 2:6-7

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!

God Dictated A Letter To My Son On Father’s Day

On By tgifmastermindsIn How To Pray For Others, Prayers For Life Changes2 Comments
Happy, Happy Father’s Day to my son, my son!

Dear Jason,

          Actually, you gave your mom the best Father’s Day gift the last time you both spoke on the phone the other evening.  You shared that early one morning after you awoke you turned over in bed and ‘Something’ led you to pick up the Bible and it opened to the story of young David fleeing from his oppressor, King Saul.

          You continued to share with her that when King Saul went into a cave to relieve himself, David tip-toed up behind Saul and cut off a portion of his garment.  Later that day in the re-telling of the story, you said David called to King Saul and told him of the opportunity he had to actually kill Saul.  David also showed the king his evidence of the cut-off piece of the king’s garment.  King Saul was shocked and agreed that David’s actions towards him were more honorable than the king’s actions toward David.

          What you did not realize, my son, is that as you ingested this bible story and as you retold it to me with such enthusiasm, you were living out a scripture written in James 1:25. “The man (Jason) who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues  to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does.”  {Emphases placed on the bold and underlined words.}

          Oh, how you blessed your mother with the sharing of God’s holy word.  And you admitted that the story meant a lot to you, too.  May you forever keep up your pursuit for godly wisdom, by looking into God’s word, practicing it and not forgetting it!  In all thy getting, get an understanding!!! (Prov. 4)

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

My humble prayer for all fathers everywhere…

Dear Heavenly Father and Deliverer of us all: First, and foremost, we thank you for your leadership and guidance through this trying world. We sincerely also thank you for the legacy of the written Word and the spirit-filled examples therein. We implore your forgiveness for our inherent ingratitude and for not always returning to you to give thanks. We graciously receive the understanding provided by your Holy Spirit as we seek to apply the life-lessons intended for our benefit that are related in the chapters of the bible.

Yes, King Saul was so jealous and bitter towards young David that he sought to kill him, BUT, you had other plans for David’s life. And you and you alone gave David the victory. I sincerely pray that whatever plans you have for other fathers in the world who are seeking after you and looking intently into the perfect law, that you will lead, guide and protect them until traveling days are done. That you will always find them doing the work of the Kingdom and not forgetting from where their help comes from.

I pray these words in the matchless Name of Jesus Christ, Amen!

Scripture Lesson: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Click http://www.tgifmasterminds.wordpress.com every Friday for a new post from The Master’s servant manager…Me!