Follow

Some people choose a word for the year, one that will be their focus and potentially represent what they choose to do, accomplish, and be. Maybe it’s ‘health’ or ‘positivity’. We download apps and follow influencers hoping to make the changes that will make us better.

But God doesn’t set expectations that WE would better ourselves on our own- we honestly don’t have the ability to do that. Oh, we might be able to generate an illusion… but so often our efforts leave us feeling discouraged and defeated. What God does ask of us is that we follow Him.  Follow.  Not lead.  Not walk nearby or on a similar pathway, but follow.

“Follow me.”

The word ‘follow’ in Greek is the word “akoloutheo” and it means to be in the same way with, to accompany, to cleave steadfastly to one, to conform wholly to His example in living and, if need be, dying.” 1

A great way to begin our year is by praying that our sons and daughters follow Jesus. Not a casual ‘checking in to see updates’ or looking for the most popular trend, but following Jesus faithfully, daily, passionately. Does their life reflect a commitment to Jesus?  Do their choices, their words and actions, their pursuits and values demonstrate that Jesus is the One they value over anything and anyone else?  

Here’s another important question, does our own life reflect that?  Do we live with a passion to serve Him?  It’s important because even though our sons and daughters are grown, they’re still watching us.  They look to us to be examples…or the justification for why they choose to do…or not do.  Are we following well?

If we are following Christ, our life will demonstrate that.  People will believe what we say when our life exhibits the evidence that our words are true. Do we live as if we’re in the same way with Jesus, accompanying Him, cleaving steadfastly to Him and conforming wholly to His example in living and, if need be, dying.” 1

Oh that we would all have a passion for Christ that consumes us to the point that we radiate joy, we seek to serve, we delight in praise and worship, and we hold the things of this world very lightly.  Our life isn’t here, it is with Christ.  We are only here for a short time- let’s make the most of it for Jesus!  Let’s commit to pray, every day, that we and our sons and daughters, would follow Christ with conviction, with a commitment that doesn’t waver, and that we would daily choose Him over everything and everyone else.

“Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, there is no shadow of turning with Thee.” 2

No shadow of turning. Consider the visual image of that.  Someone who is in the light, who doesn’t turn to either side or turn back doesn’t give evidence of a shadow, ever.  

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:17 Our God is faithful and steady. If we are to be like Him, that means we should demonstrate the same- no shadow of turning; faithful to follow for all the days of our life.  We have so little time, we can’t waste it turning aside to pursue what this world offers.  

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,” Hebrews 10:23-24 ESV

Our sons and daughters need our intercession now more than ever!  We have a mighty calling! Are we going to embrace it, take up the challenge and pray?  Oh, friends, let’s do it!  Let’s commit to praying for this next generation. God, in His mercy and kindness, has granted us another year.  Let’s take on 2025 as if it may be our last year to fervently and effectively pray for our sons and daughters, our loved ones, our neighbors and even those we don’t know and have never met.  Satan is in an all-out war to take captive as many souls as he can.  Let’s fight his agenda!  Let’s battle against his tactics.  Let’s follow Jesus unwaveringly, fighting the good fight until He returns! Pray without ceasing!

“Heavenly Father, I bring (name) before You today.  I know You know them well.  You created them. I ask today that You would empower and embolden them to follow You faithfully.  Lord, impress upon them the need to be fully committed to You, surrendered to Your will, and eager to serve You in whatever way and place You might call them.  Help me to pray faithfully and to surrender to Your will as well.  Lord, I know the hopes and dreams I have for them, but Yours are greater and hold eternal value.  Help me to follow You without turning aside to my own hopes or agenda.  Help me to pray unselfishly and according to Your will.  Lord, I ask that You would protect (name).  Keep them from deception.  Fill them with wonder at Your word and a desire to live for You, to worship and praise You and to live a life that exhibits no shadow of turning. I pray these things in Jesus’ name, amen.”

Prodigal Prayer-  “Lord, name is following other paths that they believe will earn them the life they deserve and the reward they crave. I pray You would get (name)’s attention.  Open their eyes to see that they are following empty things- things that only deliver disappointment and ultimately, destruction .  They are on a road that leads to eternal death.  And in their following, they are accompanying others who are walking towards death.  Lord, turn them around, help them to see You promise forgiveness and redemption, eternal life and an inheritance that is beyond anything this world can offer.  Give (name) a desire to know and follow You. Change what they follow so that they would follow You.”

1. G190 - akoloutheō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (kjv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g190/kjv/tr/0-1/

2. Chisholm, T. O. (n.d.). Great is thy faithfulness. Hymnary.org. https://hymnary.org/text/great_is_thy_faithfulness_o_god_my_fathe 

Big Things are Coming!

It’s a new year and that often inspires us to make a fresh start, set goals, and reset our focus and priorities.  But one thing stands unchanged, our need for Jesus, time in His Word and time talking, and listening, to Him.  I hope that you’ll come along with us this year to deepen your commitment to pray for your children, your loved ones, and for those who don’t know Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  There are exciting things happening here at Join the PAC Prayer, including a new book launching this month- 40 Days of Prayer for the Prodigal and a new initiative in praying for prodigals!!

Friends, time is short.  Jesus is returning soon.  This life that He’s given us here on earth is temporary and we’re not meant to ‘make it our own’ but to use it for His honor and glory!  What can we do in the time we have remaining to make His name known?  How can we encourage others to live for Him?  How can we pray more effectively for the family of believers to represent Him well?  My prayer is that God would use this page to encourage and inspire others to live for Christ, to be bold in their testimony, and to raise up Godly young men and women who would go into this world and unashamedly proclaim the name of Jesus in their words and actions.  Will you join us to grow in faith, commit to pray, and stand firm in what God has called us to do?

The format is simple, each week I’ll post a devotional and prayer prompt, and this  year I’m adding “Prodigal Prayer” - a simple prayer focus that we can pray for anyone who needs to surrender their life to Christ, whether son or daughter, spouse, parent or sibling, or dear friend or loved one.  Satan is working hard to deceive, distract, and defeat.  But we have the power of Christ!  The same power that raised Him from the dead is the power that works in us! (Eph. 1:19-23) Let’s pray like we believe that!

Come along with me this year and Join the PAC.  Share the site and encourage others to join in! Let’s pray together!  “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16).

Presents or Presence?

In this season of giving gifts and celebrating Christ’s birth with family and friends, we look forward to time spent together.  If given the chance, most parents would likely say they would prefer seeing their children on the holidays versus receiving a gift from them.  The gift is thoughtful, but having our son home for a visit, or eating together with our daughter, sharing conversation with our children and enjoying one another’s company means so much more.  The relationship takes precedence over the gift.  A gift can be thoughtful, but it doesn’t embody the person.  It doesn’t talk to us or give the warmth of affection, personality, or life.  It’s a gesture, not a relationship.

Much like an absentee parent might ply their child with expensive gifts to try and make up for their absence, too often we try to do the same with God with our acts of service, our ‘checklist of righteousness’, our talents and offerings. Yet we sometimes withhold the very thing He wants most- our heart. 

The child is not fooled, and neither is God.

God doesn’t crave substitutions.  He doesn’t desire our sacrifices for Him in lieu of our being with Him.  He wants our presence, not our presents.  He owns the cattle on a thousand hills.  All the riches of Creation are His.  He lacks nothing and there is nothing out of His reach, beyond His ability or budget.  The one thing He wants is our hearts.  And that, friends, is the one thing we can withhold from Him, if we choose not to surrender.  Oh, our heart’s cry should be that our sons and daughters surrender to the Lord with their whole heart- no compromise, no negotiation, no cheap substitutions, but an authentic relationship with God Most High.

God longs for us to abide in Him, to spend time in prayer, to commune with Him, rest in His Presence and find shelter, peace, and assurance in Him.  When we opt to ‘do’ and ‘give’ and think that God should be impressed and delighted, we miss the point. Our gifts do not take the place of the relationship with Him.  Nor do they make up for our shortcomings, failures, willful defiance, or conscious sin.  God wants our being more than our doing.  Doing without being found in Him is empty and really, it’s false religion.

King Saul did that very thing.  He opted to do as He wished and give gifts to God to make up for His rebellion.  But God saw through his ruse.  God didn’t accept the gifts.  And Saul’s willful defiance and attempt at ‘doing’ sacrifice versus ‘being’ obedient brought his downfall and his death.

1 Samuel 15:22-23 “Samuel said, “Does the LORD have as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than a sacrifice, And to pay attention is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as reprehensible as the sin of divination, And insubordination is as reprehensible as false religion and idolatry. Since you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from being king.”

What do we want most from our children this Christmas?  We want them to follow Jesus- willingly and passionately.  We don’t want them going through the motions, acting the part.  We don’t want dramatic sacrifices that make big impressions on others.  We don’t want lavish displays of talent ‘all for the glory’.  We long to see authentic faith being lived out every day.  We want to see our sons and daughters crave time with Jesus.  We want to see fruit that gives evidence of a heart surrendered to Him.  We want to see them living in the Presence of the Almighty God and Savior and, in turn, living a life that is a gift to Him, all day every day.  Fully surrendered and loving Him intentionally and authentically.  A present is short-lived.  It often doesn’t fit, or we already have it.  Soon after the holidays it may find itself on a pile to donate or put in a drawer or closet, to be forgotten until another time.  But Presence doesn’t wear out.  Presence brings a warmth and memory that endure.  Presence is investment in the life of another by way of time spent, words spoken, arms extended and  hearts knit together.  This season, let’s pray that our sons and daughters practice presence with God, intentionally, authentically, and regularly- not just for this season, but for every day of their life.  

“Holy Father, You make it clear your expectations of us.  Yet too often we try and negotiate the terms.  We try to do things our way, substitute gifts for obedience, acts of service for submission, and sacrifice in lieu of surrender to You.  Lord, I know you see (name)’s heart.  You see through the facade that we all put up and You see to the heart- the true condition of what lies there, our loyalties and our cravings, our willful sins and those that are hidden.  Lord, I pray that You would speak clearly to (name) today.  Holy Spirit, call them into fellowship with You.  Open their eyes to recognize the emptiness of things and actions without Jesus.  Help them crave time with You.  Let their ‘being’ in Christ motivate their ‘doing’ that gives evidence of fruit- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  A selfish heart can’t produce those, only a heart that is truly surrendered to You.  Lord, have your way with (name).  May they give You their whole heart, every day, without reservation, so that You, in turn, can give them abundant life.  Lord, I pray that You would give me the gift of seeing (name) follow after You authentically and intentionally from this point onward.  Lord, do a work in (name)’s heart and life.  May You be pleased with them and may it be for Your honor and glory, in Jesus’ name, amen.

On a personal note…

Thank you for following along in 2024.  It’s been a joy to have you all read and pray- I know God is working in our sons and daughters, and He’s working in our hearts, too!

I will be taking a brief break to spend time with my own sons and daughters for the next couple of weeks.  But don’t worry, Join the PAC Prayer will be back in 2025 with more devotionals and prayers….and a NEW BOOK releasing on Amazon soon!! - Stay tuned for updates on the new title: 40 Days of Prayer for the Prodigal.

“For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” Romans 11:36

I pray you have a blessed celebration of Christ’s birth and a wonderful new year.  Look ahead and be excited about what God is doing!  He is moving and working and I’m confident He will show us great things in the year to come!  

Pray without ceasing!

Prayer is Never Pointless

“And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.” 1 John 5:14-15

Friends, prayer is never pointless. Although we may not see anything happening, it's only because we are human, limited and bound by time and space. But we must be mindful, that all around us, there are conversations, battles, and mighty warriors (heavenly hosts) who are protecting, fighting for and guarding us with the Father's direction, permission and power.

“For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11

There are ministering angels who do His bidding and who support God's chosen and dearly loved children according to His will and the needs present.

“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” Hebrews 1:14

There are realms that we cannot see (and I don't think we would want to), but we must acknowledge are there. The spiritual world is larger than the one we operate in daily... and that should be a comfort to us, because that means our God is bigger than anything we can comprehend and He is able to do more than we could ask or imagine. I trust Him.

So, today, though it may seem like your prayers are falling flat, trust that God is working in mighty ways, in and around you and in others who will impact you and whose lives may, at some point, intersect yours. Know that prayer is a threshold to eternity and we are welcome to step into that conversation with God any time, any place and bring our burdens and joys to Him. Friends, you can be sure He is working. There is more to this than just you and I...and isn't that a comfort?!

Here’s a challenge: set a time for five minutes, then get on your knees and talk to the Lord. Pour out your heart. List those things that weigh heavily. Name those people who need Godly intervention. Call out those battles, obstacles, and opposition that seem insurmountable. They are not too high, too wide, too long or too deep for God to overcome. When the time goes off, stop and consider, you just spent five minutes in the spiritual realm of prayer with the God of Glory. The Almighty Name above all names. The One to whom every knee will bow and tongue confess His lordship. You went there, and you can go again and again, as often as you like and stay as long as you wish. Prayer is a sweet time of communion with your Lord and Savior. Next time, set your timer for ten minutes and spend half of the time praying…and the other half listening. God longs to hear your voice, but He also wants you to hear His.

Pray without ceasing.

How Fresh is Your Fruit?

“But when he [John] saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath? Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” Matthew 3:7-8

When I was a little girl, my grandmother lived right next door. I spent time at her house nearly every day. Each time I walked up the steps and into her dining room, the first thing I saw was the dining room table with it’s centerpiece - a bowl of fruit. The bowl was a beautiful green glass with a ruffled edge and it had an unusual shape.  But what really occupied my attention was the fruit inside of the bowl. It looked real to my little eyes, but it wasn’t. I would poke the apple and squeeze the grapes, yet they didn’t have any life in them. They looked the same, day in and day out. 

At first glance, a visitor might see fruit that resembled something authentic, but upon closer inspection, they would realize it was fake.  It had no substance.  It provided no nourishment.  It wasn’t the product of being connected to a tree or vine.  It was plastic. Eventually, the plastic fruit was thrown away. It wasn’t worth keeping- it was fake. And when it was tossed, it didn’t sink into the earth to produce more fruit, no, it just went to a landfill- rubbish with no value.

John the Baptist called out the Pharisees and Sadducees on the same issue. He first called them a brood of vipers- snakes who were shrewd, sly, and full of poison. Then he challenged them to “produce fruit in keeping with repentance!”.  The fruit these men exhibited was artificial- it was a product of following rules, of evaluating themselves in comparison to others who didn’t know as much or follow the rules as well (in that case, they were sure to always come out on top).  Oh, the Pharisees and Sadducees knew how to use Scripture, of that we can be sure. But they didn’t use it to teach and encourage, no, they used it to intimidate and oppress others.  Their knowledge was used to gain power over others and elevate their own standing.

These men stood in judgment over others as if they had the authority by God to do so.  Their fruit was self-manufactured and synthetic. It didn’t give evidence of life, nor did it give evidence of being connected to the Vine- Jesus.  It didn’t nourish others and it didn’t produce a harvest. No, it was just legalistic rule-following, all for show and to earn the praise of men.  It manifested as anger, pride, arrogance, and entitlement. The Pharisees and Sadducees had plastic faith and fake fruit.

“Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient.” Ephesians 5:6 

So what distinguishes real fruit from something that ‘looks’ similar, but is fake? Real fruit has a fragrance that draws people to want to enjoy it.  It brings refreshment and nourishment.  It is alive with colors that are vibrant because they’re all natural and a product of creation, not manufacturing.  When the seeds of real fruit are planted they sink into the fertile soil and produce more fruit. 

Isn’t that what the Holy Spirit does in our hearts?  He cultivates real fruit that is fragrant and nourishing.  The fruit benefits not only us, but those around us.  He produces in us love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  He grows those character qualities in us that are so appealing that others want to be near, to learn more, to be blessed by us because it’s not us...but God IN us that affects the change and brings the fruit. When we are in Christ, He works in us and through us to show others the life that is transforming us into the likeness of Jesus.

“For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.” 2 Corinthians 2:15

Godly fruit is nothing we can manufacture in ourselves because we have no power to transform our own hearts and minds- that is always, only Jesus in us producing fruit in keeping with His likeness.

“For the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth.”Ephesians 5:9

This week, let’s pray that our sons and daughters have clear discernment to recognize fake fruit. There are ‘Pharisees and Sadducees’ all around us, even today. Pray that they would seek to listen to those who are connected to the Vine-producing real fruit and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide their words and actions versus those with selfish ambition and vain conceit.

Pray, too, that they would allow Christ to work in their heart and mind to produce authentic fruit- evidence of a life lived in pursuit of Jesus. Pray they would surround themselves with others who are also pursuing Jesus.  Philippians 1:9-11 is a wonderful prayer. Let’s pray for real fruit 

“Heavenly Father, You are the Creator and Sustainer.  You cultivated the Garden and placed man there for fellowship with You.  Though sin destroyed it, You made a way, through Jesus, that we can enjoy fellowship and life with You.  I pray that You would work in (name) today.  Cultivate authentic fruit in their life that gives evidence of their faith in Christ.  Keep them from the temptation to be a people-pleaser, going through the motions and saying words only to get the affirmation of others or to ‘look the part’.  I pray, Holy Spirit, that you would grow in them love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  Those with fake fruit don’t demonstrate these qualities.  Help me to give evidence as well, so that when my family sees me, they don’t see a synthetic faith, but genuine love for Jesus that produces fruit that is sweet and refreshing.  Lord, change me, grow me, and help me to live out my faith with confidence in Jesus alone.  Let the fragrance of my faith be such that others would catch the fragrance of Jesus and they would breath deeply of Him. Lord, I pray the words of Paul in Philippians 1:9-11 for (name), “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.” Lord, fill them with the fruit of righteousness and let it grow, let it flourish, let it be authentic and beautiful for the glory and praise of Jesus, in His name I pray, amen.”

Pray without ceasing.

Teach Them to Love Jesus

“Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Deuteronomy 6:5

We’ve taught our sons and daughters many things over the years, often by talking to them and repeating words and phrases and the truths of Scripture, but more often, by being an example to them.  When we taught them how to tie their shoes, we didn’t just say it, we showed them- over and over, until they could do it themselves, and then we praised their efforts.  We taught them how to be self-sufficient, mature, and how to live with integrity.

When it comes to teaching our sons and daughters the truths of faith, our words carry weight, but our example speaks more loudly.  Friends, we need to live it out in front of them.  Our words don’t have nearly as much impact as our actions, our attitudes, and the demonstration of our love and commitment to Jesus being lived out in our daily life.  It cannot be “do as I say, not as I do”.  They’re adults.  They will do what they choose.  But if we live out our faith, consistently, circumspectly, putting Jesus at the forefront, always, our lives will reflect His character and our actions will demonstrate our priority of faith.  Because, if we’re honest, it’s not that we want our kids to do what we say…we want them to do what Jesus says.  

Think back to your days in elementary school.  Do you remember the lessons?  Do you recall how you learned fractions or reading?  It’s possible vague details will return, but if asked about your teacher, you would immediately begin to give  a description of how your teacher interacted with you and made you feel important, seen, and valued.   The teacher had a lot to say, but what impacted us was their character and actions toward us.  

“I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: 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. All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.” Philippians 3:12b-15

As we live out our Christian walk, are we investing more time and energy into words, or actions?  Are we trying to convince others (especially our sons and daughters) that what we believe is right and true, or are we modeling it to them?  We must be cautious because we can weary others by always trying to prove our point.  Paul says “and if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you.”  Paul was assuring the Philippians that by pursuing the Lord, God would make clear what is right and true.  It wasn’t up to Paul and the church to correct people’s thinking.  Should we speak truth? Absolutely! Can we demand or pressure others to follow it.? Not so much. It’s a heart-decision that only the Holy Spirit can motivate.

Though our sons and daughters are grown, we still feel that burden to know that they are walking with the Lord.  That burden may inspire us to speak a bit too much, press a little too hard, to try and sway their thinking.  But friends, we are still teaching them when we interact with them by living out our faith.  We demonstrate how to be a disciple when we consistently follow the Lord, pursue personal time with Him, memorize His word and obey His commands.  We model what it means to love when we are patient, kind, unselfish, and forgiving (1 Corinthians 13).  We show them the strength and humility that accompanies asking forgiveness when we apologize for saying what we shouldn’t or doing something hurtful. We are not above that, at any age.  

Our interaction with them says more than our words ever could.  It communicates that God is what is most important to us and we will always submit to Him, making Him the head, the Lord, and the Shepherd of our hearts. He is the One to whom we surrender all of ourselves, and that will be reflected in our life, so more than in our words. Take a moment to check yourself, is that what your life demonstrates? Could others testify to it… would they?

Model Jesus to your sons and daughters at every opportunity.  Let your actions speak loudly and let the Holy Spirit do His work. 

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:” Philippians 2:3-5

Pray that they would love Jesus authentically and that He would be the foundation upon which they build their life.

Pray without ceasing.

Created to Worship

“You shall have no other gods before Me.”  Exodus 20:3

We were created to worship.

We were created to worship. There is something inside every person which compels us to do so. It is how we are wired, how God created us.  We naturally gravitate to attaching ourselves to something for meaning and purpose: our attention, our affection, and our resources all need a target, a recipient.  Our worship never lies dormant and unused.  When our heart, soul, and mind are consumed with God, obeying Him, walking in His commandments, and modeling our life after Him, there is great fulfillment and the beauty and joy of being one with our Savior.  But if we’re not worshiping God, what do we worship?

Our worship never lies dormant and unused. 

Whether we believe in God, or we follow a ‘system of belief’, or we claim nothing at all, we are still committed to something.  And whatever takes first place in one’s life is, in fact, what is worshiped.  Dictionary.com defines worship as “to render religious reverence and homage to; to feel an adoring reverence or regard for (any person or thing).  Synonyms include the words adulate, idolize, adore, revere, etc.” (1)  The object of one’s affection, attention, and resources tells us much about a person.

Satan’s sole desire is that his doom becomes ours as well.  

Satan does his best to derail us, occupy our thoughts and hijack our worship.  He distracts us from God and His Word.  He puts attractive and sparkly things in our view that pull our gaze from God.  He caters to our wants and desires and lures us with promises of importance, power, affluence, satisfaction, and peace.  Satan promises what he can deliver in this world- temporal things- to pull us from the One who can promise us eternity in His presence- eternal things.  Satan can never have that.  He will never be delivered from sin.  He will never enjoy eternity with Christ.  His sole desire is that his doom becomes ours as well.  

God created standards for worship

“You shall have no other gods before Me.”  “You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth;  you shall not bow down to them nor serve them. For I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.  “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain. Exodus 20:3-7 (NKJV)

When God gave the Israelites the Ten Commandments, He began with intentional instructions that set the standard for their relationship with Him.  The God-focused commandments were the foundation for everything else:

•  They should have no other gods- which indicates there were other gods competing for attention.  

• They should have no idols- no other object of our worship, always God, only God.  

• They should not take God’s name in vain…in other words, they should not call themselves followers of the one true God and live otherwise.

If we, as Believers, would keep these commandments, our relationship with God would be right, and, in turn, our relationship with others would flow out of that right relationship with Him.   Love God.  Love your neighbor.

Substitute gods, misdirected worship

When our life is out of alignment with God, we are drawn to all of the other things that would take God’s place.  We substitute His authority for all the things that promise a ‘better’ way, more fulfillment, peace and happiness.  We exchange our Holy, Sovereign God for something man made, a faux deity, a cheap substitution.  Oh how we try to fill our need to worship something, with anything, but the One Who is deserving of our commitment and adoration.

Human relationships can’t satisfy the need to worship.  Accomplishments and financial gain are temporary and fleeting.  Only worship directed toward God brings us into a right relationship with Him, aligns us with His will, and will satisfy the deep need and desire to worship that dwells in the soul.   The longings to worship were established by God Himself and only He can satiate that deep need in the context of a relationship with Him.

So, how are we modeling worship to our sons and daughters?

Whatever we dedicate ourselves to, that which consumes our thoughts, around which we plan our day and decisions, invest our finances, and which takes priority is what we worship. For some, it’s easily identified by how they live their life and into what they pour their gifts, talents, and resources.  As we pursue worship, so do our sons and daughters.  What do their choices indicate they’re worshiping?  To what does their life testify?  Do they pursue God, or a god?  Have we set the standard correctly, or have we missed the mark?

Stop today and evaluate your own worship.  If asked, would others say without hesitation that you worship God?  Is He the priority in your life, not just stated, but lived?  Are you loving the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind and all your strength? 

Here is the real test…how would our sons and daughters describe our worship?

Take it to the Lord in prayer

Let’s pray and ask God to reveal what lies in our heart.  Ask Him to uncover areas of misdirected worship.  Then, let’s pray that we can model authentic worship to those around us, especially our sons and daughters.  Ask the Lord to deepen their commitment to Him, bring them into closer fellowship and guard them from idolatry and misdirected worship.

“Oh, Lord, God, You are the One true God. You are the Creator and Sustainer. You are the only One deserving of all my worship and praise. Lord, cleanse me from any competing thoughts and desires. Reveal my misdirected worship. Help me align my life with You so that what flows out of my heart and soul is true and correct worship for You and only You. I pray that You would also work in (name)’s heart. Bring conviction where there is sin. Reveal any idols that dwell in their life. Lord, bind the enemy so he has no influence. Take away any sinful longings and selfish desires. Create in us a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us so that our worship is only and always Yours and Yours alone. Restore to me and to (name) the joy of Your salvation. Let us not find any greater joy that in living for and serving You. Time is short, this world is dark, help us to live a life that reflects Your light and salvation. Let our salt not lose its flavor. Lord, be the whole object of our worship, help us to “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.” Psalm 29:2 I pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.”

Fear the LORD your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name.  Do not follow other gods, the gods of the peoples around you; for the LORD your God, who is among you, is a jealous God and his anger will burn against you, and he will destroy you from the face of the land.  Deuteronomy 6:13-15

Pray without ceasing

1. Dictionary.com. (n.d.). Worship definition & meaning. Dictionary.com. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/worship

Spiritual Drought and Times of Refreshing

Sometimes life is difficult, so much so, that our soul feels weathered and dry and our prayers flat and lifeless.  We long for a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit, but no matter how long we search for that refreshment, we can only see the desert and feel the dry air of spiritually empty space.  God’s voice seems muffled and our heart just can’t muster the strength to pray; we’re in a spiritual drought.

We can hope, and pray that the Lord would bring renewal- streams of revival, but finding the words to even ask Him can be a struggle.   It’s hard to pray for our own heart, let alone the hearts of our sons and daughters.  

It’s times like these that we need to turn to Scripture and pray the words God’s given us.  He’s so generously provided rich words filled with Truth and hope, bathed in grace and saturated with mercy.  His Word is always enough.  And how can we be equipped to pray for our sons and daughters if we’re not immersing ourselves in the Word, allowing God to empty us of ourselves and fill us with Him? Sometimes the season of drought helps bring things into perspective. It brings to light the necessities of survival for our spiritual life: Jesus’ living water, the breath of God and the fire of the Holy Spirit…the elements of the Living God.

We need to be that tree in Psalm 1, planted by streams of water,  which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither.  Notice, the fruit comes in season…that means there are seasons without fruit.  That’s okay. It doesn’t mean we’re ineffective.  It doesn’t mean we’re broken.  We haven’t stepped out of His will so that He’s removing His hand of blessing.  No, though the tree might ‘look’ dead, its roots are deep and the branches are preparing for another season of growth.  So, too, God allows us to go through dry seasons as He prepares us for another time of growth.  Consider the maple tree.  In the dead of winter, when the forest is brown and brittle, the maple tree begins to run its sap.  The sweetest product of the tree comes when it ‘appears’ to be lifeless.  So, too, God can bring sweetness out of our drought-ridden times.

The Law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul (Ps 19.7). 

So, today, take time to soak in the Word of God.  Let His words fill you and saturate your soul with His living water.  Pray Scripture back to Him. Be refreshed by His Word.

As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?  Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. Ps 42:1-2,11

I waited patiently for the Lord ; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.  He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord .  Psalm 40:1-3 1 

O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.  I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory.  Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.  I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands.  My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.  Ps 63:1-5 

Why not share, in the comments, other scripture that’s spoken to you.  Let’s encourage one another on to faithfulness and joy!  Be encouraged, friends, times of refreshing are coming!

Pray without ceasing.

God Teaches Us Prayer Through Parenting

It’s likely we all pray every day, in some form or fashion.  Whether it’s giving thanks before a meal or a quick ‘rocket’ prayer for help or intervention.  But what about a dedicated time of prayer each day when we’re talking and listening to the Lord, deeply and intentionally interacting with Him, being still before Him and waiting on Him?

If we’ve parented, or cared for children at all, whether they were our own or belonged to others, we’ve undergone a sort of prayer ‘boot camp’ whether we realize it or not.  The skills and habits we developed in taking care of children are those God wants us to use to be more effective in prayer.  

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” Colossians 4:2

The Apostle Paul used the word ‘devote’ to impress on us the need for more than just “minute prayers”.  It is the Greek word ‘proskartereō’ and it means “to be earnest towards, to persevere, be constantly diligent, or (in a place) to attend assiduously all the exercises, or (to a person) to adhere closely to (as a servitor):—attend (give self) continually.” (1) 

Constantly diligent.  Doesn’t that describe parenthood?  And if we had a busy, adventurous, adrenaline-seeking child, well, that diligence shot to a whole new level.  Whether it is an infant, a toddler, really, a child of any age, a parent is constantly diligent because they need to be aware of the dangers, aware of where that little one is, what they’re doing, and be continually ready to intervene.  Isn’t that so much like prayer?  Always watching, diligently aware, ready to intervene, attending continually.  Oh how God gives us such tangible examples of what our walk and talk with Him should be like!  Do we recognize it? Do we practice that?

Then, He tells us to be watchful.  The Greek word is grēgoreō and it means “to be  watchful in, employ the most conscientious care in a thing.” (2) Again, our parenting prepares us well for how we should pray.  And God tells us so often to be watchful:

• Matthew 24:42 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” 

• Matthew 25:13 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”

• 1 Corinthians 16:13 “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.”

• 1 Thessalonians 5:6 “So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake (alert) and sober.”

• 1 Peter 5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”

We wouldn’t dream of leaving our children to fend for themselves for days on end, we wouldn’t dare let them venture into dangerous places or with questionable or unsafe people.  No, we are always alert and awake, watching and caring.  Even as they move into adulthood, our parental watchfulness isn’t easily released.  Friends, that is how God wants us to pray.  Alert to the dangers at hand and to the enemy who stalks; ever awake and watching for His return. It could happen today! 

Finally, Scripture tells us to be thankful.  eucharistia is “gratitude; actively, grateful language (to God, as an act of worship).” (3)  Maybe it’s time for a checkup.  Is our prayer life an act of worship?  Or does it more resemble the ‘instacart’ of our spiritual life, checking off our order and waiting for the delivery?

Devoted, watchful and thankful.  That’s the kind of prayer life we need to engage in daily and that which we need to model to our families and to the body of believers.  Look around you.  This world is on fire.  Things are not getting better.  Sin is rampant and celebrated.  What is right is ridiculed as wrong and offensive.  Those who stand for Godly principles are mocked, persecuted, and in some countries, executed.  Time is short and Jesus’ return is near.  What do we want our sons and daughters to know and remember?  Our awareness of the times should increase and deepen our prayer life.

Let’s get on our knees this week in devoted prayer- constantly diligent.  Let’s be watchful and pray for what is going on around us and for those who are engaging in spiritual battles.  Let’s pray for the Body of Christ, the fellowship of believers, interceding for their spiritual growth and protection.  Then, worship the Lord in prayer through thankfulness.

Be thankful we CAN pray- we have that privilege and access. Be grateful that God provides examples and encouragement to guide our prayer so we can align our words and actions with His word and expectations.  Be thankful we still have breath and life to intercede for others.  Then, let's pray for our sons and daughters that God would guide them to deeper, more effective, more worshipful prayer, too.

Set aside the list and get on your knees and commune with the Father, allow the Holy Spirit to intercede when your words cannot.  Pray in Jesus' name for God to work and move powerfully.  He will do it.

“Heavenly Father, I come before You in the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  It is because of Him that I can enter Your throne room and sit at Your feet.  I praise You for Your greatness.  I surrender myself to You, the Great I Am, the Lord of Lords, and King of Kings- there is no other.  What a tremendous blessing I have in being Your child!”

“Lord, I ask that my prayer would be an act of worship toward You, exalting Your name and bringing glory to You.  Teach me to pray more effectively, keep me ‘awake’ so that I would be diligent in prayer- always recognizing the things I need to bring before You and readily falling on my knees to entrust You with each burden, care, and battle.  I want to be so devoted to prayer that my sons and daughters would know that their parent prays daily, diligently, and authentically, not just for what I want or wish for, but in serious, spiritually-led prayer that is life-changing, life-protecting, and effective.  Lord, I cannot pray well on my own.  But You can guide me in prayer so that I please You with my words and with the attitude of my heart.  Work in me so that I am always keeping watch, praying for those things You bring to my attention, and allowing You to guide my words and my heart.  In Jesus’ precious name, amen.”

Pray without ceasing.

1. G4342 - proskartereō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4342/niv/mgnt/0-1/

2. G1127 - grēgoreō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1127/niv/mgnt/0-1/

3. G2169 - eucharistia - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g2169/niv/mgnt/0-1/

Are You Willing to Trust God?

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Trust is hard.  It requires us to step out of our comfort zones, to relinquish control, to place our confidence in something or Someone other than us. 

Remember when our kids were little, and they were determined to do something themselves?  They were convinced they knew how, that they were strong enough, that they didn’t need help.  But the result was a big mess and frustration and tears because nothing turned out the way they expected or wanted.  They didn’t have the foresight, the strength, or the experience to really handle the task.

When it comes to our sons and daughters, we want to know they’re okay.  We want to be able to rest, with full assurance that they are making the right choices, befriending the right people, and living in a way that pleases the Lord.   Yet they’re out of our homes (most of them, anyway), living on their own and conducting their own affairs with (likely) little thought for us.  As a parent, that’s a hard change.  We invested so much into them, it’s difficult to let go and not be involved.  Oh, we talk, we visit, but we don’t do daily life with them anymore.  We’re not sitting down to dinner asking, “How was school today?”.  Life with adult children is different.  And for parents, it pulls us (sometimes kicking and screaming) into a whole new level of trusting God for their care and protection.

When they were little, we had a false sense of control over their well-being.  I think that is God’s grace to young parents.  But as our sons and daughters grow and become more independent and begin spending more and more time apart from us, our parental ability to have a hand on everything diminishes…and almost disappears.  If we’re honest, we like to be in control, and it is hard to relinquish that role.  We like having things go the way we planned or the way we imagine it will work out.  But then we get disappointed or upset, annoyed, or pouty when it does not.  (our children get it honestly, no?) Sometimes we even push back to others around us… perhaps even to our now adult children, trying to align everything with our ways and wishes once again.

It is then we realize our role as parents is changing, whether we like it or not.  If we try to maintain the status quo of their toddler or primary years, we upset the equilibrium of relationships and communication.  We can’t keep them little, and we can’t control their choices.  We have to let go and trust God.

It's time we ask ourselves some important questions:

• Do I love God more than I love (name of son or daughter)

• Am I willing to release my grip on (name) in order to allow God to work in their life?

• What if God takes (name) to the other side of the world?  Will I support and pray for them or will I resist God’s plan and fight for my own will?

• What if they experience grief or hardship- will I consume my thoughts with ‘me’ - what could I have done differently to prevent this? Or will I point them to Christ and encourage their faith and trust in His sovereignty?

• Am I living out an example of trusting God to my sons and daughters?

It’s tempting to be God’s GPS, telling Him where He’s going and guiding His turns for our lives.  We’re quick to yell out “Wrong Turn!” and tell God that’s not where He wants to take us.  But what if it is?  What if God asks you to give up something you love dearly (a job, a home, a ministry, a relationship) because He is leading you (or your son or daughter) to something else?

Our lives would be fairly dismal if we were left to design our own future because, we can all admit, we are so limited in our humanness.  We don’t have the power, the creativity, the sovereignty to design our own destiny, nor to protect and administrate our daily lives.  We are fallen, needy children.  Yet God loves us so very much He’s planned our life, long before we were ever born.  He’s orchestrated all of the locations, experiences, people, and lessons to align with His perfect will.  We all could share story after story of things that we would not have chosen for ourselves or our family but that God used to bring growth, blessing, and joy. He is a good Father and He cares for His children.

God asks us to trust Him.  That word, trust, is the same as the word believe, ‘pisteuo’ in Greek.  It means, “to have faith, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ): believe, commit.”  It goes further to mean, “to think to be true; to be persuaded of; to place confidence in.” (1)

So there is one more question that begs to be asked:

• Who are you trusting?

Are you trusting in yourself and your ability to orchestrate things?  Are you trusting in the strength of your family to ensure your sons and daughters will do what is right?  If you are, friend, you are on your way to a difficult and painful awakening.  “Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son.”  2 John 1:9  Are you living like you’re abiding or like you don’t have God at all?

God asks us to trust Him because He knows what is best.  He knows the beginning from the end and with that in mind, He orchestrates our life with all of its twists and turns, gains and losses, and joys and hardships.  He has the end in mind- whereas we only see today.

And if we trust Him, He promises hope, joy and peace.  Hope overflowing by the power of the Holy Spirit will only be enjoyed when we abide in Christ.  So let’s give up our aspirations of being God’s gps.  Let’s let Him be in the driver’s seat while we sit back and trust that He’s more than capable of managing our life and that of our sons and daughters.  Trust.  It is what God asks us to do daily.  Will you trust Him today?

“Father, I confess I struggle with wanting to control things.  I let fear and anxiety take over and in my effort to control them, I try and control others.  Forgive me, Lord.  Speak to my heart tonight.   Help me to abide in You.  I pray that You would give me a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit so that my thoughts, desires, actions and word reflect Jesus and not my sinful, fallen nature.  Lord, I pray that my sons and daughters would see me trusting You so that my life would be an example of peace, joy, and overflowing hope that can only come from You.  Lord, work in (name)’s heart and life.  Help them to trust You, too.  Remind them that You are their good Father and You desire to prosper them, not harm them.  Give them strength to trust even when it doesn’t make sense to our limited human understanding.  I pray that You would be glorified and Christ be praised, in Jesus’ name, amen.

When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While we do His good will, He abides with us still
And with all who will trust and obey

Trust and obey, for there's no other way
To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey (2)

Pray without ceasing.

1.      G4100 - pisteuō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4100/niv/mgnt/0-1/

2.     Sammis, J. H. (n.d.). Hymn: Trust and obey. =. https://hymnary.org/text/when_we_walk_with_the_lord

How Should We Pray?

“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.  I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments.”  Colossians 2:2-4

The way we pray matters. What we pray matters. The apostle Paul understood that and wrote encouragement to the Colossians so they would stay focused on what would protect and grow their faith.

When we pray for our sons and daughters, we pray for their health and well-being.  We pray for safety and provision.  But how often do we pray for their growth and discernment?  Do we pray for the protection of their mind and for a deepening of their knowledge and understanding?  Those are things we cannot see, but which have significant impact on the spiritual health of the believer.

Scripture tells us that the mind is the deceiver's biggest battleground.  If Satan can capture our thoughts, the rest will follow.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Ephesians 6:12

Satan hates that we have redemption and eternal life in Jesus Christ.  He hates our Savior.  He hates light.  He hates truth.  He wants to lure believers to dwell in darkness and in ignorance of Who Christ is, what He has done and in misunderstanding of truth.  Do you see how he twists things?  What is good is deemed evil and what is evil is celebrated (isaiah 5:20).

So how can we pray more effectively for our sons and daughters?  How can we begin to fight for their spiritual protection and growth? We can start by gaining a better understanding of Scripture and then praying those very words on their behalf.  Scripture is powerful and effective and it can accomplish more than our minds can comprehend. 

Let’s look at what Paul is praying for the Colossians.

• He prays they would be encouraged in heart:

  Paul knew the value of being in fellowship with other believers.  The Greek word for ‘encouraged’ is parakaleo and it means to come alongside another, to comfort, exhort, pray for another (1).  The Holy Spirit is called the ‘paraklete’ and is our supporter and comforter (John 14:26).  And so believers have that role for one another- to build each other up and provide encouragement.   Pray for fellowship with other believers.

• He instructs them that true encouragement must be united, or knit together in love- agape. 

  The term ‘knit together’ is the Greek word symbibazo and it means to “to join together, unite or knit together in affection”(2).  When we truly care for one another we want the best for each other.  It’s hard to find deep connections with someone for whom you don’t get along or with whom you have nothing in common.  But believers have faith in Christ in common- God has made us brothers and sisters in Christ!  We are family and we are driven together by the love of God.  That connection sustains and encourages us as we continue our walk of faith.  Pray for authentic love among believers.

• He longs for them to have full riches of complete understanding:

  It’s important that we pray that our sons and daughters have assurance that their faith in Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life and confidence that there is no other belief system, path, or alternate ‘wisdom’ that can bring redemption and eternal life.

  The Greek word plerophoria is the word used for understanding and it means “full assurance and the most certain confidence (3). Let’s pray that our sons and daughters have confidence in their understanding of Scripture and in their faith and conviction that Jesus is Lord.

• Paul stresses that the Colossians would know Christ- the Source of all wisdom and knowledge. 

  We don’t want our sons and daughters to just know about Christ, we want them to KNOW Him.  We want them to experience Him in their life.  We want them to pursue a personal relationship with Him so that they will comprehend the riches of wisdom and knowledge that are found in Him.  We don’t want them to just have knowledge.  Even Satan has knowledge, but he is doomed.  Even demons believe and shudder at the Truth of Jesus.  No, we want our sons and daughters to have true knowledge.  There is a difference in the original language.  Knowledge is the word gnosis and it means intelligence and understanding(4).  But true knowledge is the word epignosis and it means precise and correct knowledge(5).  It means one is believing and understanding what is proven to be true, correct, and in line with evidence.  It is knowledge that changes how someone lives.

“And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ--to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9-11

• Finally, pray for protection against deception.

  Pray that our sons and daughters would have deep understanding and knowledge of Scripture and their faithful walk with Christ and fellowship with believers would guard them against deception.  There is much out there that sounds good but is founded in lies.  There are people who have knowledge of Scripture (gnosis) without the epignosis of faith in Jesus and the teaching and guidance of the Holy Spirit.  The messaging that our sons and daughters are encountering daily would try to sway them to compromise their faith, lower their standards, be accepting of sin and open-minded to other ‘pathways’ to God.  In the last days the deception will be so strong that, if possible, even the elect would be deceived (Matthew 24:24). Friends, we are there. The presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives and a correct knowledge of Jesus is the protection they need.

The enemy wants our sons and daughters.  There is no question about that.  We need to pray that they would be strong in their faith, solid in their understanding of Scripture, and rooted in fellowship with other believers. We are in a war- be on guard and use the armor of God to fight against the enemy.

“Father, I pray for (name) today.  Build them up in their faith and knowledge of Jesus.  Sanctify them by Your truth- Your Word is Truth (John 17:17).  Lead them into a vibrant fellowship with other believers that is grounded in correct truth and solid teaching.  Lord, they NEED You, though they may not always recognize that.  I pray that You would open their eyes and hearts to the full riches of complete understanding.  Keep them from sin.  Guard them from compromise.  Help them to stand steadfast in their faith.  Guide them into Your truth and don’t let them walk away from it.  Lord, we are in dark days and at some point soon, we may all have to stand boldly in the face of persecution- give us strength and conviction, Lord.  Build up the family of believers so that we would encourage one another in love and faithfulness, In Jesus’s name I pray, amen.”

Pray without ceasing.

1. G3870 - parakaleō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g3870/niv/mgnt/0-1/

2. G4822 - symbibazō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4822/niv/mgnt/0-1/

3. G4136 - plērophoria - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g4136/niv/mgnt/0-1/

4. G1108 - gnōsis - Strong's Greek Lexicon (kjv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1108/kjv/tr/0-1/ 

5. G1922 - epignōsis - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1922/niv/mgnt/0-1/ 

Praying for Evidence

Just because someone says something is true, does not make it so.  Anyone can make a claim, but without evidence, it’s just that, a claim, the proof remains to be seen.  That’s where evidence comes in.  Evidence is what backs up a claim and proves it to be true. We see this in the process of a legal trial.  Any claim brought in court must be backed up by evidence or it’s dismissed for failure to prove its truth.  The judge looks for the burden of truth.

Here’s another way to look at it.  We may say that we believe in the power of exercise.  We can follow ‘all the influencers’.  We can save insta-videos and articles.  We can talk the talk, but if we don’t actually exercise, there is no evidence that it’s working a change in us.  When others watch us, they won’t see us out walking, lifting, running, or stretching.  Our claim in the life-changing power of exercise in our life and our belief that it works is just that, a claim.  There is no evidence if we don’t live it out.  Our words are unsupported. 

3 John 1:4 “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”

As parents, we feel the weight of wanting our sons and daughters to have a genuine walk with the Lord, fully surrendered and obedient to Him.  We want those whom we love and treasure to not just know about Jesus, but to have a life-changing relationship with Him.  And a life that is surrendered will be a life that produces evidence of Who they worship and follow, of Who they prioritize and desire to please.  We long to see evidence and know with assurance that the burden of proof is present and their eternity is secure.

Matthew 7:7 “Ask, and it will be given to you;”  

That word, ‘ask’, is the word ‘aiteo’ in Greek and it means to “ask, beg, call for, crave, desire, require.” 1

We need to ask the Lord- beg, call for, crave, desire and require- that He would let the life of our loved one exhibit the fruit of a sincere and active relationship with Him.  If we’ve raised our sons and daughters in the knowledge of the Lord, teaching them Scriptural truth in the power and Presence of God, the saving grace and mercy of Jesus Christ, the effective advocacy and teaching of the Holy Spirit, they know.  They know.  They have the words to speak…But knowledge is not evidence of the working of Christ in their heart and mind.  Life-changing faith is manifested in everything we say AND do'; it is the evidence of the change and the proof that backs up the claim that we are changed and that we follow Christ.

James 2:14 “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?”

Deeds won’t save us.  By themselves, they are an empty effort to prove ourselves worthy. If we pursue and rely on good deeds, alone, we make ourselves our own god - trying to effect our salvation through our good works.  But deeds, supported by our faith in Christ, are evidence that our life is changed, that it’s surrendered to and guided by Someone greater than we. We’re not doing good deeds for our own benefit, but because we are compelled by the love of Christ toward others. We can’t not do what God compels us to…and we find joy in it!

Hebrews 11:17-19 “By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death.”  

Abraham was willing to obey God in whatever God asked of him, because He knew God.  He trusted Him.  He believed that if God asked him to do it, there was reason for it and God would redeem it in ways only He could and for His glory. Abraham saw evidence of God’s goodness and faithfulness in his life that bolstered his faith and gave him confidence that God’s promises were not just a claim, but were true and faithful. And Abraham’s obedience wasn’t in word only.  His actions provided evidence for the faith he claimed.  His actions were the proclamation.  Abraham set an example for all of us in faith and obedience.

James 2:21-22  “Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did.”

Today, let’s begin praying that the Lord would reveal evidence of the faith of our children.  Pray that their faith would truly be their own, not just what they’ve been taught and what they’ve heard.  Pray they would give of themselves to be the hands and feet of Jesus to others.  And pray that they would not just have head knowledge, but that their understanding of Scripture and their experience of God’s faithfulness in their life would transform their life and would be evident to those around them.  

“Heavenly Father, oh how I want to see evidence of (name)’s faith.  I ask, not because I’m deserving, Lord, but because I crave to see that (name) is authentically following after You.  I yearn to see genuine fruit showing others that they know You, not just because it is what we taught them, but because it is what they believe themselves.” 

“Strengthen (name) with deep conviction to be obedient to You when You ask them to do hard things. Increase their faith to trust You without wavering.  Open (name)’s eyes to see what You are doing, how you are protecting and providing, and how You are answering their prayers, even those unspoken. Father, I pray they would have the faith of Abraham, the love of God as David did, nurture in them the fervent heart of Hannah and the boldness of Abigail.  Lord, You provided so many examples of faith- may (name) be someone You would write about whose faith would be evidence through their actions, choices, and words and who would inspire others to follow Jesus in the midst of this dark world.  In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.”

Pray without ceasing.

1. G154 - aiteō - Strong's Greek Lexicon (esv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g154/esv/mgnt/0-1/

Who is Jesus to Our Sons and Daughters?

Any parent who loves Jesus has a strong desire to see their sons and daughters do the same and follow after Him faithfully.  We want to know that they don’t just have a head knowledge of Christ, but they’re pursuing a living, growing relationship with Him, one in which they talk to Him, listen to Him, read His Word, and desire to do His will.

But really, have we stopped to ask who Jesus is to them?  Is He someone they know about or someone they know personally?  Is He a figure in history or is He a prominent figure in their personal life?  Are they compelled to follow, or do they sit idly by?  Is their heart burdened to obey or are they pursuing other things?

We can’t require their allegiance to the Lord, especially if they are adults, we cannot manage their faith for them.  They have to make that choice and commitment.  They must choose to follow and walk in obedience.  It’s between Him and them.

So today, and every day, we pray.  We pray a lot.

The following are scriptures and prayer points to pray over our sons and daughters daily.  Though the posts on this blog may change, the need for and importance of prayer on these points does not. 

Pray fervently, regularly, and with hope.  God isn’t done working!

Pray that they recognize the Truth and follow Jesus.

1 John 2:4 “If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn't obey God's commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth. But those who obey God’s word truly show how completely they love him. That is how we know we are living in him.  Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.”

Pray that they would value their relationship with Jesus more than anything and choose Him above anything else.

Philippians 3:7-8 “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.  What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.”

Pray that they would grow and mature in Christ.

Philippians 1:9-11 “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God.”

Pray for their spiritual protection.

Psalm 91 

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”

Surely He will save you
    from the fowler’s snare
    and from the deadly pestilence. 

He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

You will not fear the terror of night,
  nor the arrow that flies by day, 

nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
    nor the plague that destroys at midday. 

A thousand may fall at your side,
    ten thousand at your right hand,
    but it will not come near you.

You will only observe with your eyes
    and see the punishment of the wicked.

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”
    and you make the Most High your dwelling,

no harm will overtake you,
    no disaster will come near your tent. 

For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways;

they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
    you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
    I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

He will call on me, and I will answer him;
    I will be with him in trouble,
    I will deliver him and honor him.

With long life I will satisfy him
    and show him my salvation.”

Pray that their life, lived in obedience to Christ, would be an ever-speaking testimony of the gospel of salvation and the hope, joy, and peace of life in Christ

2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 “ With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith. We pray this so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Do they know Christ? 

Our prayer should be that they would truly and authentically know Him and follow after Him with their whole heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Do you know Christ?  Do you have more than just a knowledge ‘of’ Him?  Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus as your Lord and Savior?  Or are you longing for peace, joy, and hope that all seem elusive?  If this is your heart’s desire, you simply need to admit you’re a sinner and agree that Jesus’ death on the cross is the only way to receive forgiveness and eternal life.  He is the One Savior who can redeem - there is nothing too damaging, too dirty, or too deep that He cannot forgive.

1 John 1:9 “But if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness (unrighteousness).”    

“Lord, I know I’m a sinner and I need a Savior.”

“If you confess with your mouth and Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.  For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.”   Romans 10:9-10

“Jesus, I believe You died on the cross for me.  I believe You were buried and rose again to conquer death and all the power of darkness.  Please forgive me for my sins.  I surrender my heart and life to You.  Be my Lord and Savior and help me to live for You, in Jesus’ name, Amen”

Satan’s big lie is that we can be ‘good enough’ and by convincing us of that, we lay Jesus and His sacrifice on the cross aside.  We overlook His resurrection and that He conquered death …and we put ourselves in the place of God….the very lie that led Adam and Eve to eat the fruit in the garden, “You will be like God” Genesis 3:5

We have no ability to save ourselves.  But Satan wants nothing more than for us to believe that we do…because if we believe that,  then we are eternally condemned.  

But Jesus!! 

He died for our sins so we wouldn’t be condemned.  He rose from the dead to conquer death and sin and hold authority over every power, dominion, principality and authority.  He rules!   He reigns!  And we can be covered by his sacrifice and be their heirs to His eternal kingdom.  Why wouldn’t you want that?!

I’m praying for each of you who read this.  Jesus loves you dearly.  He died for you.  Will accept His gift of salvation; will you choose to surrender to His Lordship and live for Him?

If you made a decision for Christ today, I would love to hear it!!  

Pray without ceasing!

Why Pray Scripture?

It’s hard to communicate in words what lies in our hearts and what stews in our minds, isn’t it?  Sometimes we just cannot put into words the depths of our griefs and joys, the details of our worries and fears.  Oftentimes, in speaking to the God of the Universe, we realize our smallness, our limitations, our insufficiencies…and we should.  We are fragile, limited, and insufficient…but we are the children of the King!  We are sons and daughters of the Most High God and He stoops to hear us. 

Psalm 116:1-2 says “I love the LORD because He hears my voice and my prayer for mercy.  Because He bends down to listen, I will pray as long as  I have breath!” (NLT) 

God bends down to listen to us.  Just like a father would get down to listen to his little child who has a need or something to share, God leans towards us to hear what we’re asking, understand what we’re telling Him, and gives us His full attention because He loves us.

So, why should we pray Scripture?  God’s word is so complete that it can put into words what we cannot.  Speaking God’s words back to Him demonstrates we value His Word, we understand the power that it holds, and shows our submission to its authority. 

Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Meditate on that.  God’s word is living, not dead, not antiquated, not ‘yesterday’ but alive and working.  The Greek word is ‘energes’ and means “active, working, effectual, operative, powerful” (1) The Word of God is active and powerful!  And isn’t that what we want our prayers to be?!  

Scripture is also sharp, ‘tomos’, meaning it can cut by a single stroke.  It’s not dull, requires no hacking, sawing, or repeated blows.  The double-edged sword was a prized weapon in battle because you could swing back and forth, taking out your enemies with each swing.  A sharp, double-edged sword was to be feared and could not be competed against.  Scripture imparts fear in the enemy, friends!  Our own words do little. God’s word pierces and divides.  When we pray, we want to pierce the darkness and evil, we want to divide error from truth, we want to separate those we are burdened for from the oppression and evil that would seek to bring them down.  God’s word is powerful to do that.

Scripture separates and brings distinction between things as well.  Hebrews mentions joints and marrow.  We might question, “Why did God talk about that?”  Consider what a joint does, it connects things and allows for movement.  Yet, sometimes our connections are unhealthy and our movements are in the wrong direction.  We can use scripture to pray that any movement is God-led and that our sons and daughters remain closely connected to Him.  Psalm 1:1-2 is a wonderful passage to pray: “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on His law day and night.”

But what about the marrow?  Ah, the marrow is life-generating.  We can live without joints, but we cannot live without marrow.  The Greek word for marrow is ‘myelos’ and means blood.  Marrow allows for life, generates new blood cells that fight infection, carries oxygen, and helps stop bleeding.  A bone marrow transplant can restore life.  Death of the marrow brings death to the body. 

Finally, scripture discerns the intentions of the mind and heart.  It is decisive to address each aspect of the individual’s thought life and heart attitude.  Scripture is the all-inclusive remedy to every situation, challenge, attack, and need.  Psalm 19:7-8 “The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul.  The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.  The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart.  The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.   

When we pray Scripture over our sons and daughters, we’re praying the very words of God that are effectual and life-giving, protective and sustaining.  We need to form a habit of opening our Bibles and praying back the words we read. If we do, we are praying words that are alive, active, discerning, penetrating, and effective to fight spiritual battles with the double-edged sword of scripture, battling principalities and powers that would seek to harm and destroy. We can pray a spiritual hedge of protection around our sons and daughters. We can ask that the Lord would bring other believers to encourage, challenge, and keep them accountable. Through prayer and Scripture, we have access to the Throne room of The Almighty, Great I AM, our Father, our Savior, our Friend. Scripture is so precious, we must embrace it, learn it, pray it and memorize it.

Let’s boldly pray Scripture this week, speaking God’s own words over our sons and daughters, asking Him for protection, guidance, wisdom and strength.  Psalm 25 is a great place to begin, but please, share the Scripture you’re praying!!  Let’s encourage one another as we kneel before the Throne!

Psalm 25

1 In you, Lord my God,
    I put my trust.

2 I trust in you;
    do not let me be put to shame,
    nor let my enemies triumph over me.

3 No one who hopes in you
    will ever be put to shame,
but shame will come on those
    who are treacherous without cause.

4 Show me your ways, Lord,
    teach me your paths.

5 Guide me in your truth and teach me,
    for you are God my Savior,
    and my hope is in you all day long.

6 Remember, Lord, your great mercy and love,
    for they are from of old.

7 Do not remember the sins of my youth
    and my rebellious ways;
according to your love remember me,
    for you, Lord, are good.

8 Good and upright is the Lord;
    therefore he instructs sinners in his ways.

9 He guides the humble in what is right
    and teaches them his way.

10 All the ways of the Lord are loving and faithful
    toward those who keep the demands of his covenant.

11 For the sake of your name, Lord,
    forgive my iniquity, though it is great.

12 Who, then, are those who fear the Lord?
    He will instruct them in the ways they should choose.

13 They will spend their days in prosperity,
    and their descendants will inherit the land.

14 The Lord confides in those who fear him;
    he makes his covenant known to them.

15 My eyes are ever on the Lord,
    for only he will release my feet from the snare.

16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
    for I am lonely and afflicted.

17 Relieve the troubles of my heart
    and free me from my anguish.

18 Look on my affliction and my distress
    and take away all my sins.

19 See how numerous are my enemies
    and how fiercely they hate me!

20 Guard my life and rescue me;
    do not let me be put to shame,
    for I take refuge in you.

21 May integrity and uprightness protect me,
    because my hope, Lord,[c] is in you.

22 Deliver Israel, O God,
    from all their troubles!

Pray without ceasing!

1. G1756 - energēs - Strong's Greek Lexicon (niv). Retrieved from https://www.blueletterbible.org/lexicon/g1756/niv/mgnt/0-1/

Be Sure to Leave It Where They Can Find It

“I will sing of the LORD's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations.”  Psalm 89:1

When we have something important we want to give our kids, we want to leave it where they can find it, especially if we’re not going to be there to point it out.  Whether it be a special note or gift, or maybe important paperwork in the event something happens, we don’t want it to be a mystery and we don’t want to make it difficult. If it’s important, we tell them exactly where the items are so they can easily access them, why would we not?

But do we do the same with our faith?  If our kids went looking, would they easily find it?  Would they be able to quickly point out where our hope is anchored?  Or would they have to hunt for it?  

There is nothing more important than sharing our faith with our sons and daughters, nothing.  If we would be called home to heaven, what would they find as they go through our belongings?  What would they write about how we lived?  What was so evident in our lives as the most important to us?  

Let’s be intentional  about sharing our love for the Lord and the evidence of His faithfulness in our lives.  Let’s shift the paradigm of our day, our life to testify of God’s goodness and presence that redeems us and transforms us.  Let’s be sure to leave behind a legacy of faith for our sons and daughters so that the most precious thing we pass to them is faith in Jesus Christ and hope for eternity.

“Father You are faithful.  All throughout my life You’ve been present and working, even when I could not see Your hand or when I was too distracted to make you a priority.  I pray that from today onward, I would live in such a way that my sons and daughters would know that my faith in Jesus is the most precious thing I could share with them.  I pray that they will see You in me.  Lord, let there be no question about what I value and prioritize.  Don’t allow me to be distracted by the busyness of this world, the charms of what it promises but cannot deliver, or the lie that my value lies in what I accomplish.  My value lies in who I am…and who I am is a child of the Most High God.  Lord, I want my sons and daughters to embrace You fully and pursue You daily.  Help me to model that to them.  Let them see me reading Your Word.  Let them be confident that I am praying for them daily and that they can share any burden, need or request and I will take it to the Throne and intercede for them.  Help me to memorize Your word so that it becomes part of my language and the Holy Spirit can stir and pour out what I’ve committed to head and heart so that others can be encouraged.  Lord, help me to leave my faith where my kids can easily find it and help them to treasure it as they most precious thing I could pass along to them.  I pray this in Jesus’ name, amen.”

Lenten Meditations- Live Like Jesus

Philippians 2:5 "In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus."

Let’s keep on praying for believers, worldwide. We are the Church, the Body, and the Bride. How should we live in these days?

It's not about us speaking our mind, it's about us living, walking, and talking as if our relationship with Jesus is the most precious thing to us- it should be! The Church needs to have the same mindset as Jesus-
"Who made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!" Philippians 2:7-8

What do we need to die to today? What do we need to surrender to the Lord for His purposes and glory? Let's take on the role of God's servants- willingly doing what He calls us to do and finding joy in it.

Today, pray for the global body of believers that in these last days we can live like Jesus and model what it means to follow Him with our lives.

Pray without ceasing

Lenten meditations to prepare our hearts for Resurrection Day

How Should We Live?

"Be on your guard;
stand firm in the faith;
be men of courage;
be strong." I Corinthians 16:13

How might we live differently if we KNEW Jesus would return today? Would we share our faith more boldly? Would we live without worry and fear?

If our sons and daughters are believers in Jesus, they are members of the Body of Christ, the Church, the Bride of Christ. We need to pray they will actively pursue their relationship with Jesus and live it out so others can see the fruit.

Today, let’s pray the Church lives purposefully (confident in our 'why') and intentionally (making it happen), ready to meet our Savior and actively sharing the hope that we have with those who don't know Him.

Pray that believers around the world are watchful and vigilant, that they will stand fast and persevere in their faith in Christ, pray they would be brave and be ever-strengthened in their faith and commitment to Jesus.

Pray for the Body of Believers to live in genuine love.

John 13:35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Love: agape= affection, benevolence.

By THIS. By living in and showing love everyone will know we are a Christ follower.

Not by our knowledge. Not by our music. Not by our preaching or spiritual words. Not by our approval. Not by our service. But they will know because they see the evidence of our love toward one another and toward those around us. It’s a love that’s given freely, it’s not earned. It’s not to be used as leverage, it’s poured out generously. It doesn’t ask to be reciprocal and doesn’t wait for an equal exchange. They will know that we, the Church, the Body of Christ, are His followers because our love is unlike that of this world; it is God-generated and God-sustained.

Our sons and daughters need to understand the 'basics' of what Christ calls us to...and we as parents, role models, older believers, need to live it out so that they can clearly see what Christ means by this.

“Lord, please work in the Body of Christ today so that everything we say and do is motivated by and eclipsed by Godly love. I pray that we would not show love based on how others treat us, accept us, or affirm us, but that we would love unconditionally. Help us to love the unlovely. Help us to love when it’s not the natural response we might have. Help us to love as Jesus loved so that when others see us, they really see Him. Work in Your Church today. Help us to love like You love so that others will know we are Christ followers, not by our words, but by our actions. Build up Your Church, Lord. Protect us and deepen our walk with You so that as days grow darker, we can be salt and light to show others You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

A Prayer for the Church: Let the Peace of Christ Rule

Colossians 3:15 “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

As we anticipate the remembrance of Christ’s death and resurrection, it’s a time many often give something up to remind them of all Christ gave on our behalf. But instead of ‘going without’ why don’t we commit to praying for the Body of Believers, we who daily represent Christ to this world, those with whom we are joined as The Church and The Bride. We should pray, too, for our sons and daughters as they are members of the Body (or if they are not, they would be drawn to know Christ).

Dark days are ahead…in fact they are here and walking faithfully requires us to be intentional. Let’s immerse ourselves in Scripture that reminds us of who we are in Christ and how we are called to live as His church.

Let's commit to pray in the weeks building to Resurrection Day that God would move and work in His Church so that we would stand strong against the enemy and would uphold one another to remain faithful. Will you commit to pray too?

Colossians 3:15 “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”

The phrase "Let rule" is the word “brabeuo” in Greek and it means to arbitrate or umpire, to govern.

A question for prayer and meditation:

What are we allowing to rule in our hearts and govern our thoughts and responses?

Our Prayer point:

Pray that the Church would allow the peace of Christ to rule in our hearts individually and collectively and pray the world would see this extraordinary peace and be drawn to Christ.

Pray without ceasing

Dear Children…Don’t Let Anyone Lead You Astray

“Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is  righteous, just as he is righteous.  The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.”

Have you ever been deceived?  It’s an awful realization, isn’t it?  When you believe and trust in someone or something, only to realize that what you believed to be true, thought you understood and wholeheartedly supported is not what it seemed.  It can throw you for a loop.  And watching someone go through it can be equally as difficult…especially when that other person doesn’t recognize the deception.

Deception is a slippery slope that pulls people further and further from the Truth and into false hope, misdirected loyalty, and often, victimization.  Deception leads to loss of resources, relationships, and hope.  It’s a ploy of the enemy to convince people to believe a lie, isolate them from one another and keep them from following Christ.

But how do you recognize deception?  How can you spot a ‘fake’?  Those who are trained to spot fake money and art look for certain characteristics and inconsistencies.  But in order to do so, they have to have intricate knowledge of the original before they are able to spot a fake.  Our sons and daughters need to have strong knowledge of Scripture and a consistent, growing relationship with the Lord in order to protect themselves from deception. Inch-deep knowledge and casual practice of spiritual disciplines leave us vulnerable to being led astray by teachers whose teaching “sounds similar” but whose doctrine weaves in error and deception.  

The enemy will try to convince us that what we’re following is “okay” or “not really as bad as we might think”, or even label it as “my truth” so others cannot tell us it’s wrong. If he can do that, then he is accomplishing his goal of deception and disruption.   Lord have mercy!  Our sons and daughters need to be on guard!!  

1 John 3:7-8 says, “Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous.  The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.”

So, how do we recognize and avoid deception?  How do we remain faithful? We need to pray that our sons and daughters will:

• Recognize God’s Truth:  

  • Colossians 1:9-14 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

• Be able to identify falsehood

  • Jude 1:17-19 But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.”

  • 2 John 2:7, 9-11 “I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Anyone who runs ahead and does not continue in the teaching of Christ does not have God; whoever continues in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them.  Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work.

• Avoid evil: 

  • Proverbs 16:17 “The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.”

  • I John 1:6 “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth.”

• Fellowship with other believers who walk in the Truth:

  • Acts 2:42 “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

  • 1 John 1:7 “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”

• Listen to the Holy Spirit Who lives in us- He will help us recognize those who walk with Christ in genuine fellowship vs. those who are ‘posers’.

  • 1 John 4:6 “We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood.”

• Strive to maintain a testimony that gives evidence of Christ in us- our life should speak truth and give evidence of Christ to others

  • 3 John 1:3 “ It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it.”

Today, let’s pray these scriptures over our sons and daughters.  But let’s also pray for the Body of Believers.  Satan is strong, yes, but the God that lives in us is stronger and He holds the victory!!  Let’s pray He will surround us with His mighty protection and keep us walking faithfully.

Pray without ceasing.