Recently, I wrote about impudent, daily prayer. Daily prayer is healthy, and things go so much better when I do it. However, it’s easy to let it slide. One day then turns to two; and before long my routine is shot.
I realize that reading my bible right away in the morning sets the course for my day. It forces me to slow down and connect directly with God. He speaks directly through his Word, so it seems wise to start the day by listening to him.
Recently, I bought a new bible. I was watching Ray Comfort’s videos and decided buy his. I’m glad I did. Of course, it has an evangelical theme. The idea is to learn how to love so much that you simply must share the gospel with people. I like that way of thinking. An interesting teaching point I read today was on Matthew 6 when Jesus taught about prayer.
How to be heard.
Ray gives us four bullet points* regarding prayer.
- “Without faith it is impossible to please him.” Pray with faith (Hebrews 11:6).
- “He who has clean hands and a pure heart.” Pray with clean hands and a pure heart (Psalm 24:3-4).
- “Do not heap up empty phrases.” Pray genuine heartfelt prayers, rather than vain repetition (Matthew 6:7).
- “For I the Lord your God am a jealous God.” Make sure you are praying to the God revealed in the Scriptures (Exodus 20:3-6).
With faith, we may confidently draw near to the throne of grace and receive mercy in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16). We can easily confess our sin and know that God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9) and he will remember our sin no more (Hebrews 8:12).
Bare your heart to God. Don’t be afraid to get passionate. Remember how Jesus prayed in the Garden? But don’t forget who you are praying to. God is a consuming fire to his enemies yet compassionate and loving to his children. He crushed Jesus on the cross for our sake, and Jesus was obedient. Even so, every good and perfect gift comes from him. This is his desire.
Father, thank you for the bible and faithful servants who point the way to you. While it seems I should know this stuff, I still find myself being taught and needing guidance. As it should be. Thank you. Amen.
- “The Evidence Study Bible – Commentary by Ray Comfort” 2011 by Bridge-Logos, Inc. pg. 1336
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