DECISIONS OR CHOICES

B. MAKE CHOICES WHICH VALUE GODLINESS OVER GREED.

By faith, Abram had already renounced everything visible and opted for the unseen promises of God. So he had no need, as Lot did, to choose by sight.

Lot chose by sight and ended up spiritually and financially bankrupt.

The things he saw and got didn’t bring him the lasting happiness he expected.

DECISIONS OR CHOICES

The story of Lot’s choice (Gen. 13:5-18) teaches a crucial lesson about life’s choices:

-Since choices often result in eternally significant consequences, we must choose in line with God’s principles.

Basic principles on making choices

1. MAKE CHOICES WHICH VALUE RELATIONSHIPS OVER RIGHTS.

Note verse 8: “Please let there be no strife between you and me, … because we are brothers

Abram had a right to choose whatever land he wanted and let Lot take the leftovers. He was the older, the chief of the clan. God had promised the land to Abram, not to Lot. (Note, by the way, that even though Abram and Lot both had the freedom to choose, God’s sovereign purpose to give the land to Abram overruled their choices.)

But Abram graciously yielded his rights and trusted God to give him his portion. What mattered to Abram was, “We are brothers.” He valued his relationship with Lot over his right to choose the best land.

Decisions.

Keys to help in making great decisions to avoid a life of regret and bitterness.

3.Acknowledge God in all our WAYS.

“some” of your ways. The verse does not say “most” of your ways. The verse says “all” of your ways

1. Acknowledge His existence.

This is the most simple way we can acknowledge God. Hebrews 11:6 says,

2. Acknowledge His glory by your life.

Part of acknowledging God in all your ways is conforming your ways so that they bring glory to God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 states,

3. Acknowledge your death and Christ’s life in you – in short, your new identity.

This is probably the best part of acknowledging God in all your ways. Galatians 2:20 says,

Decisions.

Keys to help in making great decisions to avoid a life of regret and bitterness.

2.Stop trying to be in CONTROL

Decisions.

Keys to help in making great decisions to avoid a life of regret and bitterness.

1.Trust in the LORD

-It is to rely on God and believe that He is big enough to take care of the situation. 
Trusting does not mean shutting our eyes to facts. There is no such thing as “blind faith.” Trust looks at things as they are. It sees the dangers that threaten, and assesses them at their true value. It sees the need, and does not try to disguise it. It sees the difficulties, and does not discount them. But seeing all this, it looks beyond and sees God, its all-sufficient help. It sees him greater than the needs or the dangers or the difficulties, and it does not shrink before them.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Resist the devil and he will flee from you. -James 4:7

Jesus has already defeated Satan.

The Pilgrim’s Progress is considered by some to be the second best-selling book after the Bible. If you have read it, you may remember that Christian was approaching a narrow passage as he traveled toward Porter’s lodge for the night. In the narrow passage he saw two lions. He was very afraid and considered turning back, fearing that nothing but death was before him.

But the porter at the lodge, whose name was Watchful, perceived that Christian was about to turn back, so he cried with a loud voice not to fear the lions because they were chained and could do him no harm. Christian then cautiously walked into the narrow passage, trembling with fear. He heard the lions roar, he felt their hot breath on his flesh, but they did him no harm because they were indeed on the chain. Christian arrived safely on the other side.

I have good news for you about the devil: Satan is a lion on a leash! The devil appears often as a roaring lion, but remember, this lion is on a leash.

THINK ABOUT IT—

Sermon July 30 2017

Foundation

 1 Corinthians 3:11 

Stop And Smell The Roses

When was the last time you put down your to-do list and Twitter feed long enough to experience the good things happening around you? Laughter from the kids playing catch in the front yard, the dogwood full of blooms when winter seemed like it would keep it dead forever, affection from your spouse after a day spent apart — life is happening all around us. And it should be enjoyed.

In Song of Solomon 2:8-15, the girl and her lover describe a world worth being noticed and enjoyed. With excitement and joy, she describes the arrival of her man. Once united, he invites her come with him so they can enjoy the beauty around them together (Song of Solomon 2:11-13

Although Song of Solomon was written in a different, arguably more simple period of time, we can still learn from this couple. The lovers celebrated their joy through recognizing beauty in creation and in one another. God created the world, the beauty we see, the joy of love and sex, and gave us senses to enjoy them.

Don’t mistake Instagramming the romantic date you had with your partner for true enjoyment. Enjoying what God has given us will give life to our souls. Those moments aren’t easily captured in a photo or caption, and that’s OK.

Take time to enjoy what God has put around you today.

Reflect:

Giving is the only antidote to greed.

Jesus says, in Matthew 6:24, No one can serve two masters. Either 
he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and 

10 REASONS TO BE MORE INVOLVED IN LOCAL CHURCH MINISTRY

1. Glorifying God by serving in my local church ministry is the purpose of my salvation.

byworks, we fail to fully appreciate that we have been saved unto

2. I have been uniquely gifted to serve.

Several Bible passages help us to understand the concept of spiritual gifts. Among them are Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12, and Ephesians 4. In these chapters we learn how God graciously and supernaturally favors each believer with his own distinct ministry gift! What a privilege is ours!

At our home we open Christmas presents on Christmas Eve. Don’t ask—it’s an old Norwegian tradition. No matter what size our tree is, it seems that it’s never big enough to shelter the number of presents beneath it. How bare that tree looks on Christmas morning after all of the presents have been removed and unwrapped! The gifts begin their life of usefulness only after they’ve been unwrapped.

unmoved and still wrapped

3. Ministry service will demonstrate the reality of my faith.

Nobody said it more poignantly than James when he taught us that faith is not primarily about what we know (or have heard), and it’s not primarily about what we say. Quite simply, faith without works is dead.

no more effect

Sometimes our faith has zero—or minimal—effect because it is not the real, actionable, demonstrable faith of the Bible. Fake Christianity may temporarily move people, but upon close scrutiny, will have no long lasting influence.

4. The laborers are few.

You’ve heard it before: The Gospels only record one prayer request from our Lord Jesus. “Pray for laborers!” If you are not already involved, somebody somewhere is praying for you to become involved in the ministry. The need is greater than ever. The fields are whiter than ever. Laborers are as relatively few as ever.

A popular business principle is one called the 80/20 principle. Basically it goes like this: typically 20% of the people do 80% of the work. Myriad are the applications to this in the local church: 20% do 80% of the giving, 20% of the people do 80% of the outreach. You get the idea.

do know

5. Children tend to emulate what they see, not what they hear.

Teaching is most effective when doing

preached

What are your children learning about positive, heart-motivated ministry by watching you? Someday soon you’ll be riding shotgun.

6. The commission is great.

Remember, what Jesus commissioned us to do is what He demonstrated Himself time and again in His personal ministry. Jesus always saw people. In the desperation of their need and in the fragility of their faith, He saw them. Social status, ethnic background, sullied reputation, gender, race, or age—nothing precluded Jesus’ involvement in the lives of others.

Until we contextualize what we do (including the places we go and the jobs we perform) in terms of the gospel, we are missing out on a big part of the reason we’re even here on this planet.

The woman at the well, blind Bartimaeus, and the man by the Pool of Bethesda—they all occupy places on our journey too. Oh, they may have different names and different problems, but they all need Jesus. And we have been commissioned to tell them.

every creature with the gospel, then we need every Christian

7. Ministry involvement enhances biblical understanding.

Hermeneutics is the science of Bible interpretation. Obviously the Bible is an important book, and we ought to interpret it in its literal, grammatical, and historical context. Careful attention should be given to the words employed and to the themes surrounding them.

“If any man will do his [God’s] will, he shall know of the doctrine…”

“But the servants which drew the water knew”

Loosely stated, the Chinese proverb says, “Tell me and I’ll forget. Show me and I may remember. Involve me and I’ll understand.”

Basketball point guards with “game intelligence” and “good court sense” didn’t gain that body of knowledge by memorizing countless schematics of x’s and o’s on some locker room dry-erase board. They developed it over time and in countless game situations on the practice court.

For better understanding of God and His Word, lace up your sneakers and step on to the court.

8. Doing anonymous or little-noticed things for the Lord is like whispering, “I love You” in His ear.

do in order to measure up. We do because

Contextualize everything you do by the God whom you love.

With this mindset, mundane duties became majestic acts of service. Anonymous gifts become yours and God’s little secret. Serving becomes its own reward.

Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;—Ephesians 6:6

One of my jobs as a teenager was to work at a local hospital. While there I met many different types of people and many different types of workers. One young man named Vince was a particularly hard worker in that he worked hard to avoid work! On one particular afternoon, I ran into Vince “hiding” by the loading dock. In his hand was a broom. Now, mind you, he wasn’t using the broom, he was just holding it. Curious, I asked him, “Vince, why did you bring the broom with you to the loading dock?” To which he replied, “Oh, this? Just in case the boss shows up!”

Maybe Vince has changed since those days, but at that point in his life Vince focused on avoiding responsibility, only feigning work when the boss happened to be looking. His thinking betrayed his wrong view of the nature of work itself (that it was somehow a bad thing) and of the motivation to work (the taskmaster might show up).

For us believers, the boss is always watching. But our motivation is not one of duty or fear. He loves us, and we love Him! What we do is of inestimable value because He orders us to it, energizes us in it, and rewards us for it!

9. I will forge long-lasting and valuable friendships.

One of the major fringe benefits of working for the Lord is the culturing of genuine friendships. Those to whom we feel the closest in life are typically those with whom we work. Adam and Eve began their marriage side by side, working together—he the garden worker and she his helper. The close connection we have with our coworkers often surpasses even that which we share with our own neighbors.

Some chapters of the Bible are more difficult to read than others. One of them is Romans 16, mainly because some of the names are impossible to pronounce! But what a tender passage it is. Paul takes time to assign value to his coworkers in ministry. Read it. Sense his heart.

Paul and Barnabas, Paul and Silas, Aquila and Priscilla, Peter and John—and the partnerships go on. With fondness I remember those with whom I conducted ministry way back in college, and then as a young man in Connecticut, and now for these many years in western Pennsylvania.

Ministry partners are the best lifetime friends and great sources of encouragement.

10. I will stand before the Lord.

He loves me. He died for me. He has given me purpose. Only what’s done for Him matters. I will meet Him face to face. Someday. Maybe today.

Involvement in ministry is a life of service for Jesus, like Jesus, and with Jesus. In fact, it’s all about Jesus. Now if that doesn’t incentivize service, I don’t know what will!

Failure?

“And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. And when they had done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes and their net brake.” – Luke 5:5-6.

Peter’s fishing attempt had failed and they had caught nothing. But through the Lord’s miraculous intervention they tried again and had the catch of their lives. It is possible to come back from failure even when it seems impossible. Peter and his fellow fisherman knew that after trying all night to catch fish in the best fishing spots it would be impossible to catch anything on that day. But what man calls impossible God calls possible. It is possible for us to come back from failure through the power of God.

No one today thinks of Thomas Edison as a failure even though he failed 10,000 times before finally inventing the light bulb. Failure is not when we have been knocked down. Failure is when we stay down. Through failure we can gain an education. There is a country song that talks about a working man’s Ph.D.. And as I
was growing up I heard it mentioned from time to time about the school of life’s hard knocks. Proverbs 26:11 tells us, “As a dog returneth to his vomit, so a fool returneth to his folly.” In other words we ought to learn from our mistakes.

Whatever the problems we face, problems force us to examine our lives. Peter and the other fishermen had caught nothing after fishing all night. Jesus doesn’t tell them it is time to put up the nets. No! instead Jesus tells them in Luke 5:4, “…Launch out into the deep…” When we experience failure that’s what we need to do. Instead of giving up and refusing to try again we need to boldly “launch out into the deep.”

Let us “launch out into the deep” and go boldly where no man or woman has ever gone before.

You can rise again.

Commitment to one’s goals is, for me, the most important rule for success. Without it, we fall prey to procrastination, bad habits, laziness, rationalization and a host of goal-defeating problems.

Commitment is a strong word-much stronger than “agreement.” If I agree to meet you for a lunch, I have three options-keeping my agreement, cancelling, or changing it. If I commit myself to meeting you, I will meet you no matter what.

Commitments often require sacrifice in order to achieve a particular goal. If your goal is to be self-employed, you will probably have to sacrifice an active social life for awhile.

When you are committed to your goals, attaining them is easier. Your choices are clearer. If your goal is to become the top salesperson in the company, then the choice between going home when everyone else does or staying an extra hour and to make ten cold calls may not be easy, but you know what you have to do, and you do it. If your goal is to lose 15 pounds, your choice between having a carrot or a piece of carrot cake becomes clearer. When you are not committed to your goals, your choices become hazy.

Being committed means doing whatever it takes.

Being committed to our goals often isn’t easy, and it takes considerable time and effort. That’s why we make so few commitments and often have such trouble keeping them. Americans in general are impatient; we don’t like to stand on line or wait; we want what we want right now. If everyone in America were promised a million dollars, tax free, for meditating one hour every day, from 5-6 a.m. for two years, I believe a high percentage would never collect the money. “Too much trouble,” we’d say. That’s the trouble with commitment-it’s too much trouble.

Commitment requires strong self-discipline, and a persistent inner voice to urge us on. Like a soldier facing the enemy, we face our own inner enemies- “I’ll do it tomorrow,” “I can’t do it.” When we accept a commitment, it should be with “do or die” determination, otherwise it’s only a weak agreement. Real commitment takes courage, sacrifice, and perseverance.

In war, in sports, in life, those without commitment to victory and success often create their own defeat. If we could see the meaning of “do or die” as does a soldier in battle, we would be victorious more often.

When you are committed, anything is possible.

The Power of Commitment

God made a COMMITTMENT TO Abram. He has not Changed even though times have changed.

The Lord of Lords has COMMITTED to never leave us nor forsake us. We must commit to walk with Him till the very end of the age.

Signs of Reduced Commitments in Life (America 1990)

1. The divorce rate is climbing: half of all new marriages end in divorce

2. Adults feel that they have fewer close friends than did adults in past decades

3. Brand loyalty in consumer purchasing studies has dropped in most product categories, and by as much as 60% in some categories.

4. The proportion of people willing to join an organization is declining in relation to churches, labor unions, political parties, clubs and community associations.

5. Book clubs and record clubs are less likely to attract new members when multiple year or multi-product commitments were required.

6. The percentage of adults who sense a duty to fight for their country, regardless of the cause, has dropped.

7. The percentage of people who commit to attend events but fail to show is on the rise

8. Today’s parents are less likely to believe that it is important to remain in an unhappy marriage for the sake of the children than they were 20 years ago.

Relationship Killer

4. Selfishness

Relationships Killer

3.Gossip

“A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” (Proverbs 11:13 NIV)

Relationship Killers

2.Pride

Relationship Killers

Faults are like the headlights of a car; those of others seem more glaring than your own.

A 12 POINT CURE FOR COMPLAINING

Complaining is unbecoming of the true Christian and yet we are proficient at it. The cure is found in these verses. In Christ we are never hopeless or forsaken. Every trial has meaning. Meditate on this cure in order to change both your language and your heart.

1. GOD COMMANDS ME NEVER TO COMPLAIN.

Do all things without complaining and disputing. Philippians 2:14(NAS)

2. GOD COMMANDS ME TO GIVE THANKS IN EVERY CIRCUMSTANCE.

In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

3. GOD COMMANDS ME TO REJOICE ALWAYS, AND ESPECIALLY IN TIMES OF TRIAL.

Rejoice in the Lord always. Phil. 4:4; Rejoice always. 1 Thessalonians 5:16; Count it all joy when you fall into various trials. James 1:2

4. I ALWAYS DESERVE MUCH WORSE THAN WHAT I AM SUFFERING NOW—IN FACT, I DESERVE HELL.

Why should any living mortal, or any man, offer complaint in view of his sins? Lamentations 3:39 Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. Luke 13:2-3

5. IN LIGHT OF THE ETERNAL HAPPINESS AND GLORY THAT I WILL EXPERIENCE IN HEAVEN, THIS PRESENT TRIAL IS EXTREMELY BRIEF AND INSIGNIFICANT, EVEN IF IT WERE TO LAST A LIFETIME.

The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. Rom. 8:18; For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 2 Corinthians 4:19

6. MY SUFFERING IS FAR LESS THAN THAT WHICH CHRIST SUFFERED, AND HE DID NOT COMPLAIN.

Who when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when he suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously. 1 Peter 2:23

7. TO COMPLAIN IS TO SAY GOD IS NOT JUST.

Shall not the Judge of all the Earth do right? Genesis 18:25

8. FAITH AND PRAYER EXCLUDE COMPLAINING.

I sought the Lord, and He answered me, and delivered from all my fears. Psalm 34:4

9. THIS DIFFICULTY IS BEING USED BY GOD FOR MY GOOD AND IT IS FOOLISH FOR ME TO COMPLAIN AGAINST IT.

And we know that all things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

10. THOSE MORE FAITHFUL THAN I HAVE SUFFERED FAR WORSE THAN I, AND DID SO WITHOUT COMPLAINT.

…and others were tortured, not accepting their release, in order that they might obtain a better resurrection; and others experienced mockings and scourgings, yes, also chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were tempted, they were put to death with the sword; they went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, ill-treated (men of whom the world was not worthy), wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes in the ground. All these, having gained approval through their faith… Hebrews 11:35-39

11. COMPLAINING DENIES THAT GOD’S GRACE IS ENTIRELY SUFFICIENT.

My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9

12. THE GREATEST SUFFERING, THE WORST TRIAL OR DIFFICULTY, CAN NEVER ROB ME OF THAT WHICH IS OF GREATEST VALUE TO ME AND MY GREATEST JOY, NAMELY THE LOVE OF CHRIST.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Just as it is written, “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:35-39

-Because Jesus is our friend, He protects us.

-Scripture is full of images of protection. God is described as a shield, a keeper, a fortress, refuge, and shelter. He is a hiding place and stronghold. He is the pillar of fire who goes before the Hebrews as they flee Egypt. Because Jesus took upon Himself the wrath of God stored up for us, He becomes our Shelter and Refuge. He is our great Defender.

-Jonathan was a genuine friend to David. When Jonathan’s father, Saul, planned to kill David, Jonathan warned him and helped him escape.

-Can your friends count on you to protect them from evil people?

-Are you willing to fight for your friends”

-Are you willing to be hated for the sake of your friends?

-A lot of great people destined for greatness have been destroyed by friends who failed to protect them from their adversaries.

-Why would one keep quiet and listen to destructive gossip when their friends integrity is being torn apart?

-What a joy it is to find a friend that doesn’t turn and walk away from us when we have hard times, or when we down, His Name is Jesus.

-Jesus is a steadfast Friend.

-There will never come a day when He isn’t there beside us to keep us, guide us and to comfort us.

-He is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother!

-We must be deliberate to stand by our friends despite what is happening in their lives or what negative stuff others have said about them.

-The prodigal son lost all his friends when life was tough.

-Be the Steadfast Friend. One who can be counted on at all times.

-Make a commitment to stand by your friends even when stuff is not going well for them

-We all need Friends who will be there for us come rain, sunshine, darkness, pain, chaos, BE THERE!

It is essential to be alone with God, waiting at His door, hearkening for His voice, lingering in the Scripture. No number of Christian meetings, no amount of Christian activity, can compensate for ” this still hour.”

The Spirit is Willing

“And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.  I want to do what is right, but I can’t.  I want to do what is good, but I don’t.  I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.  But if you do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.”–Romans 7:18-20

There’s an internal war that rages within each of us.  Paul describes this so well in Romans 7.  Though we desire to do the right thing, we don’t have the power to do so in our own efforts and we mess up.  The good news is that we don’t have to rely on our own strength to make right decisions.  We don’t have to be dominated by our sinful nature and end up doing the things we don’t want to do.  But the way we can live this kind of life is by yielding to the Holy Spirit and relying on the strength of Jesus Christ, not our own.

When we’re facing struggles, we must rely on God’s power alive within us through the Holy Spirit.  It is our job to lay down our stubborn fleshly will and yield to the will of God.  In that moment, the Holy Spirit will be there to help us.  Let’s learn to yield to and become totally reliant upon the Holy Spirit.

Make a decision today to yield to the Holy Spirit and lean on His strength, not your own, and to overcome obstacles of sin and selfishness in your life.  Surrender and release those areas to God, knowing He will help you.

Grace & Truth has come down

For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.–John 1:17

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a personal visit with God?  There is no need to wonder about what God is like or would say, because to know Him, we have only to look at Jesus.  In Jesus we have received grace, but there is even something more we have received: truth.

The kind of truth John spoke of in today’s scripture is not a list of laws and rules such as were given to Moses.  Make no mistake–the revelation of God through the word of the Law was glorious.  When Moses came down from Mount Sinai after receiving the ten commandments, his face shone so brightly with the glory of God that he had to wear a veil (Exodus 34:33-35).  But the word of the Law cannot compare with the word of life that has been revealed through Jesus!

In John 1:18 we learn that no one, not even Moses, has ever seen God.  But Jesus has not only seen God–He is God.  The truth that John was speaking about is a clear and unveiled vision of the true nature of God. Only when we see Him through Jesus Christ can we truly get a glimpse into His heart.  It is from a state of grace, not legalism, that we will find real and lasting transformation (2 Corinthians 2:7-18).

Pray that the Holy Spirit will help you see God through the eyes of grace and truth given to us in Jesus Christ.

Agree with the Will of God

Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?

In the heart of every believer is the desire to walk closely with God.  We know that He, too, desires a close relationship with each one of us.  A key to having a strong level of spiritual intimacy with God is living in agreement with His will for your life.

In Genesis 5:22, we read of Enoch and see that he consistently walked with god, for it says, “Enoch walked with God three hundred years.”  Enoch lived a powerful life.  he was a man who walked in agreement with God’s will and lived a life pleasing to God. (Hebrews 11:5)

The level of our agreement with God will determine the degree of closeness in our walk with Him.  It is one thing to know God’s will for our lives; it’s another to live in agreement with His will.  In order to enjoy the best life that God has for us, we must first understand that God does not change, but we sometimes must.  Let’s earnestly seek to know and agree with God’s will.  The level of our agreement with God will determine the degree of closeness in our walk with Him.  I believe firmly that the moment our hearts are emptied of pride and selfishness and ambition and everything that is contrary to God’s law, the Holy Spirit will fill every corner of our hearts.  But if we are full of pride and conceit and ambition, there is no room for the Spirit of God.

Make it your prayer  today that you will walk in agreement with God and enjoy the life He desires you to have in Christ.

Fasting Removes Unbelief

Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour.  then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?”  So Jesus said to them, “Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.  However, this kind does not go out except through prayer and fasting.”

When we pray and fast, we don’t do so to change God or His will; by praying and fasting we are the ones changed.  Coming into alignment with God helps us overcome doubts and fears.  When we pray and fast, unbelief leaves .  It is when we have faith to believe that we can pray with confidence and know that “nothing will be impossible.”

When we pray and fast, we don’t do so to change God or His will; by praying and fasting we are the ones changed.  Ask God to strengthen your heart to fully believe Him and His word.  it is okay to recognize and acknowledge if you struggle with unbelief.  That’s the first step in allowing God to strengthen your faith and bring you into alignment with His plan for your life.  Do not limit what God can do by your unbelief.

Align yourself with God’s Word and will during this fast.  Release your unbelief.  Pray with confidence, knowing “nothing will be impossible” for you.

Tune In to God

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.

Have you ever tried to tune in a radio station only to be frustrated by finding static rather than music?  And when you fiddled with the dial again, suddenly you hear a clear signal.  the fact is that clear signal always existed on the airwaves.  The difference is that now you have adjusted your tuner to the right frequency.

In our hectic lives, there are so many signals bombarding our senses that it can become difficult to distinguish God’s voice from the deafening static noise of life.  Fasting enables us to tune out the world’s distractions and tune in to God.  As we fast, we deny our flesh.  When we deny our flesh, we become more in tune to the Holy Spirit and can hear God’s voice more clearly.  If you truly listen for God’s voice, you will hear it.  And when you hear it, your faith will increase.

Fasting enables us to tune out the world’s distractions and tune in to God.

“If you desire to tune out the static of life and really tune into the voice of God, come to Him first and foremost with ears willing to listen and a heart ready to obey what he says (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 66:2).  The more we practice being in His presence, the clearer and more recognizable His voice becomes.  Fasting is more important, more important perhaps than many of us have supposed.  When exercised with a pure heart and a right motive, fasting may provide us with a key to unlock doors where others may have failed; a window opening up new horizons in the unseen world, a spiritual weapon of God’s provision, mighty to the pulling down of strongholds.”

In this time of fasting, what is your mind tuned to?  What distractions do you need to remove so that you can focus on God?  Prepare your heart to hear the voice of God, and ask Him to help you remove distractions that keep you from focusing on Him and hearing His voice clearly.  

Day 1 To increase in spiritual hunger and holiness

Psalm 51:10-12: Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of my salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

Daniel 6:10: Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.

It was Daniel’s practice, three times a day, to go to an upstairs room in his apartment, open the windows facing Jerusalem, get down on his knees, and pray to the one true God. No doubt, Daniel prayed at other times also. He probably prayed throughout the day. But there were these special times, set aside times, where it was his priority to meet with God in prayer. In fact, it was such a priority to Daniel that when the king passed a decree that for the next thirty days people could only pray to the king, Daniel was unfazed. “No way.” Daniel may have been an important official in Darius’ kingdom, but when the king’s law (don’t pray) conflicted with God’s Law (pray), the choice was clear. Daniel just kept right on praying.

Daniel was thrown in the lion’s lair, but God protected Daniel, delivered Daniel, honored Daniel, and put it in the Bible for all to see.

Set aside, Prize, Protect and prioritize some time each day to meet with God in prayer.

Gospel Outreach Center

7 Days of Prayer & Fasting 2017

It is imperative that we pray at least (3) times daily throughout this week of Prayer & Fasting (Daniel 6:10). It’s not just about abstaining from foods; it’s about developing a “listening ear” through prayer unto God.

We will be praying for our world, our nation, the Church (Body of Christ), lost souls, families and then our own personal relationship with Christ .

Our Fasting Schedule

Our church wide 7 Day Fast will begin on Monday, January 9, 2017 and will conclude on January 15, 2016.

Start the year 2017 right :Join in the Fast

Discover the rewards of putting God first in all things!

Fasting

Fasting is one of the most powerful weapons God has ever given us for our daily lives.

We all go through times when we feel like we are not living up to our full potential. Sometimes we lose our energy and our spiritual sharpness . . . this causes us to lose our edge.

What does it really mean to lose your edge?

When a lumberjack keeps swinging away at the tree without sharpening his ax, the ax will soon become dull and ineffective. In much the same way, that can happen to us.

Going through our daily routines in our own strength wears us down. Little by little, we lose our closeness to God. Without that closeness, we become ineffective for the purposes His has for us.

Fasting can help you get back your passion! It can recharge you!

Although fasting lasts for a short season, it brings long-term results, which sharpens us, enabling us to face the challenges of life in His strength. Through fasting, you can experience spiritual renewal and direction for your life . . . restoration of relationship . . . healing . . . release from bondages . . . and so much more!

We begin year 2017 with 7 days of fasting. 

But when you make fasting a way of life, 

Fasting can help you Recover Your Passion, Recapture Your Dream and Restore Your Joy!

Fasting is a principle that God intended for everyone to practice. It is not a punishment; it is a privilege!

Make fasting a “lifestyle”! Join us, and thousands from around the world, in the Fasting Movement .

What Is Fasting?

Biblical fasting is refraining from food for a spiritual purpose.

Prayer and fasting is defined as voluntarily going without food in order to focus on prayer and fellowship with God. Prayer and fasting often go hand in hand,You can pray without fasting. When Prayer and fasting are combined and dedicated to God’s glory they reach their full effectiveness. Having a dedicated time of prayer and fasting is not a way of manipulating God into doing what you desire. Rather, it is simply forcing yourself to focus and rely on God for the strength, provision, wisdom you need and gain a deeper fellowship with God. By taking our eyes off the things of this world through prayer and biblical fasting, we can focus better on Christ.

Fasting has always been practiced by true believers.

Fasting helps subject our bodies to our spirits. (I Cor 9:27)

Fasting is disciplining the body, mind, and spirit. (Prov. 25:28)

Fasting is subordinating our flesh-desires to our spirit-desires. (Gal 5:17)

Fasting helps set the priorities in our lives. (Mt 6:33)

Fasting is longing after God. (Ps 63:1-2)

Why Should We Fast?

1.Honor God – Mt 6:16-18, Luke 2:37, Acts 13:2, Mt 5:6

2.Humble Yourself – 2 Chron 7:14-15, Ps 35:13

3.Discerning Healing – I Cor 11:30, James 5:13-18, Isaiah 59:1-2

4.Deliverance from Bondage – Mt 17:21, Is 58:6-9 (loose bands of wickedness)

5.Revelation – God’s vision and will – Dan 9:3, 20-21, Dan 10:2-10, 12-13

6.Revival – personal and corporate – Acts 1:4, 14 / 2:16-21, Joel 2:12-18

7.Repentance – personal failures – Psalm 51: Jer. 29:11-14, James 4:8-10

8.Jesus fasted 40 days before He started His ministry. (Matt 4:12; Lk 4:14)

9.Fasting helps us become sensitive to the Holy Spirit. (Acts 13:2)

10.Helping us to deny our own flesh and crucify the carnal mind.

11.Fasting brings spiritual revival. (Dan 9:2,3)

12.Helping us to prevail in prayer and intercession.

13.Fasting is God’s Providence to give us a healthy lifestyle and it cannot be substituted by any other way. It is the privilege of the children of God.

14.To fellowship with God, have intimacy with Him and knowing Him.

15.To be made whole, healed and restored spiritually, physically, emotionally and psychologically. (Hos 6:1-2)

There are several types of Fasting. The one you chose is between you and God. He will honor your best sacrifice.

Full Fast

Drink only liquids (you establish the number of days).

The Daniel Fast

Eat no meat, no sweets and no bread. Drink water and juice. Eat fruits and vegetables.

3-Day Fast

This fast can be a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Partial Fast

A partial fast is from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm or from sun up to sundown. You can select from three types of fasting —a Full Fast, Daniel Fast or give up at least one item of food.

Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word:

1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, 20, Joel 2:12, Luke 2:37, Acts 10:30, Acts 13:2

Corporate Fasting:

1 Samuel 7:5-6, Ezra 8:21-23, Nehemiah 9:1-3, Joel 2:15-16, Jonah 3:5-10, Acts 27:33-37

Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with a blessing (Isaiah 58, Jeremiah 14:12, 1 Corinthians 8:8). May God greatly bless you as you fast!

When you eliminate food from your diet for a number of days, your spirit becomes uncluttered by the things of this world and amazingly sensitive to the things of God. As David stated, “Deep calls unto deep” (Ps. 42:7). David was fasting. His hunger and thirst for God were greater than his natural desire for food. As a result, he reached a place where he could cry out from the depths of his spirit to the depths of God, even in the midst of his trial. Once you’ve experienced even a glimpse of that kind of intimacy with our God—our Father, the holy Creator of the universe—and the countless rewards and blessings that follow, your whole perspective will change. You will soon realize that fasting is a secret source of power this is overlooked by many.

A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher. —Luke 6:40

During the years that Jesus walked this earth, He devoted time to teaching His disciples the principles of the kingdom of God, principles that conflict with those of this world. In the Beatitudes, specifically in Matthew 6, Jesus provided the pattern by which each of us is to live as a child of God. That pattern addressed three specific duties of a Christian: giving, praying, and fasting. Jesus said, “When you give…” and “When you pray…” and “When you fast.” He made it clear that fasting, like giving and praying, was a normal part of Christian life. As much attention should be given to fasting as is given to giving and to praying.

Solomon, when writing the books of wisdom for Israel, made the point that a cord, or rope, braided with three strands is not easily broken (Eccles. 4:12). Likewise, when giving, praying, and fasting are practiced together in the life of a believer, it creates a type of threefold cord that is not easily broken. In fact, as I’ll show you in a moment, Jesus took it even further by saying, “Nothing will be impossible” (Matt. 17:20).

Could we be missing our greatest breakthroughs because we fail to fast? Remember the thirtyfold, sixtyfold, and hundredfold return Jesus spoke of (Mark 4:8, 20)? Look at it this way: when you pray, you can release that thirtyfold return, but when both prayer and giving are part of your life, I believe that releases the sixtyfold blessing. But when all three—giving, praying, and fasting—are part of your life, that hundredfold return can be released!

If that’s the case, you have to wonder what blessings are not being released. What answers to prayer are not getting through? What bondages are not being broken because we fail to fast?

Matthew tells the story of a father who had a demon-possessed son. For years he watched helplessly as his son suffered severe convulsions. As he grew older, the attacks became so severe that the boy would often throw himself into an open fire or a trench of water. A suicidal spirit tormented him constantly; the situation became life-threatening.

Having exhausted every attempt to cure the boy—even talking him to the disciples with no avail—the father’s plight seemed impossible. Then he heard that Jesus was near. Going to the Master, he cried, “Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for often times he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him” (Matt. 17:15, KJV).

When the boy was brought to Jesus, the Bible ways He “rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour” (v. 18, KJV). But what made the difference? After all, Matthew 10:1 records that Jesus had already given the disciples power to cast out evil spirits and to heal every disease. So why couldn’t the disciples cast out the demon and cure the boy?

That’s what they wanted to know, too, so later that night, when they were alone with Jesus, they asked Him. Jesus replied, “Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting” (Matt. 17:20–21, KJV).

Long before this incident, the Holy Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness, where He spent forty days and forty nights, taking no food. “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” For Jesus, casting out that stubborn demon wasn’t impossible.

If Jesus could have accomplished all He came to do without fasting, why would He fast? The Son of God fasted because He knew there were supernatural things that could only be released that way. How much more should fasting be a common practice in our lives?

Fasting Is for Everyone

Perhaps you’re thinking, “I still don’t know how fasting can really be for me.” According to the words of Jesus, it is the duty of every disciple and every believer to fast. When addressing the Pharisees as to why His disciples did not fast, Jesus replied, “Can you make the friends of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them; then they will fast in those days” (Luke 5:34–35).

Then they will fast. Jesus didn’t expect His disciples to do something He hadn’t doen as well. Jesus fasted, and according to the words of Peter, Jesus is our example in all things (1 Pet. 2:21).

-Fasting brings rewards.

There’s another vital point that I want you to see in Matthew 6: God delights in giving rewards. Not only that, but He says that when giving, praying and fasting are practiced in your life, He will “reward you openly.”

A good example of such open reward can be found in Daniel. While in Babylonian captivity, his fasting—even partial fasting of certain foods—brought about the open reward of God, who blessed Daniel with wisdom beyond that of anyone else in that empire.

Later, in chapter 10, Daniel was grieved and burdened with the revelation he had received for Israel. He ate no choice breads or meats and drank no wine for three weeks. Then he describes the angel that was sent to him—which had been delayed by the prince of Persia for twenty-one days—with the answers Daniel sought. His fast broke the power of the delayer and released the angels of God so that God’s purpose could be revealed and served.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Do you desire to know God’s will for your life, whom you should marry, or what you should do in a critical situation? Fasting brings you to a place of being able to clearly hear God’s will.

Fasting demonstrates repentance.

Joel prophesy of judgment upon unfaithful Israel was followed by a divine call to ward off judgment through a fast of repentance. The Lord beckoned, “Even now,?declares the LORD, Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.?quot; (See Joel 2:12-13.) Similarly, James exhorts New Testament believers with these words: “Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (See James 4:8-10.) Fasting demonstrates the brokenness of a heart that is truly repentant for sin.

The Daniel Fast

Step 1: Be Specific

1. The king’s food was against dietary laws.
2. Daniel and his friends had vowed against wine.
3. The king’s food had been offered up to idols/demons.

Step 2: Fast as a Spiritual Commitment
The Daniel Fast involves a spiritual commitment to God. “Daniel proposed in his heart that he would not defile himself” (Daniel 1:8).

Step 3: Reflect Inner Desire by Outer Discipline

1. Your food choices.
2. The level of your spiritual commitment as reflected in constant prayer during the fast.
3. Your time commitment. If you determine to fast for a certain time, keep it. For example, if you determine to fast 10 days, don’t stop on Day 9.
4. Your testimony commitment. Your fast is a statement of faith to God that you want Him to heal your body, and faith is foundational to the Daniel Fast.

Step 4: Pray to Perceive Sin’s Role in Poor Health
Notice James 5:13-16:

• Sin is something related to the cause of sickness.
• Lack of health/healing may be the result of spiritual rebellion.
• Lack of health/healing may be due to sin of wrong intake, i.e. drugs, pornography.
• Repentance is linked to health according to James.
• Elders have a role in healing both spiritual and physical health.
• Sick people must desire to be well
• The anointing oil could mean

1. Medicine for healing,
2. Symbolic of the Holy Spirit, or
3. It could be baptism

• Prayer alone may not gain healing, faith is the major factor.
• In Greek there are several words for “sick”. James uses “Kanino”, which not only includes disease, but also means weak or weary.
• Attitude is important. James said, “are there any among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.”

Step 5: Fast as a Statement of Faith to Others

Step 6: Learn the Effects of the Food You Eat

Step 7: Yield All Results to God
Daniel said, “as you see fit, deal with your servants” (Dan. 1:13).
FOOD GUIDELINES FOR A DANIEL FAST

Daniel 1:12

Daniel 10:3 KJV

When going on a Daniel fast, or any type of fast, if you have questions outside of what Scripture says, prayerfully seek the Lord and be led by the Spirit for the specifics for your personal fast.

 Whether you are beginning a Private Fast or Fasting Corporately as we do here at Gospel Outreach Center every year, I believe you will find these tips helpful.

FASTING TIPS

1)   Preparing to Fast (Es 4:16)

1. a) Get your heart and mind ready, set your mind clearly on the objective of fasting, and maintain a thankful heart.
2. b) Write down the clear objectives for fasting; add a clause of flexibility, so that God may speak His objective.
3. c) Pray and commit to a type of fast, asking God for grace to remain determined.
4. d) Plan your calendar

Conserve your energy and devote more time to prayer and reading God’s Word.

1. e) Prepare spiritually

Fine tune your mindset, make known to God that you desire to weaken the flesh so as to be close to the Lord spiritually. Allow the Spirit of God to direct the mind, to direct the body for renewal action, meaning: getting ready to change.

1. f) Prepare physically
2. h) Pray daily and read the Bible.

Don’t overeat before fasting. On the contrary, reduce food intake gradually until the day of fasting. Avoid food that is high in calories. Eat only salad and fruits three days before fasting.

Preparing Spiritually

Confess your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness.

Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4;17:3-4).

Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2).

 Deciding What to Fast

The type of fasting you choose is up to you. You could go on a full fast in which you only drink liquids, or you may desire to fast like Daniel, who abstained from sweets and meats, and the only liquid he drank was water. Remember to replace that time with prayer and Bible study.

Deciding How Long

You may fast as long as you like. Most can easily fast from one to three days, but you may feel the grace to go longer, even as much as 21 to 40 days. Use wisdom and pray for guidance.

Beginners are advised to start slow.

What to Expect

When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus’ example when you fast.

Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God’s face.

During the Fast (Mat 6:16-18)

1. a) Read the Word of God and fellowship with God

b)Talk with and listen to God; try to hear the voice of God, once

you hear, verify with the Holy Bible. Then wait for a season to confirm. Once confirmed, put it into action and let no one stop you.

c)Seek the Lord

Pray and read God’s Word during meal times. Join at least one prayer meeting.

Be ready to respond when you hear from God.

Whatever God makes known to you, make restitution immediately. Change any habits immediately. Be accountable to someone for your renewal.

Practical tips

1. Avoid medical and even natural herbal drugs
2. Limit your physical activity and exercise
3. Rest as much as you can
4. Maintain an attitude of prayer throughout the day
5. Allow for temporary bouts of physical weakness, impatience, irritability and anxiety as your body adjusts.

Fasting is not recommended:

The following are among groups fasting is generally not recommended:

• People who are pregnant or breast-feeding,
• Children and teenagers since they are still growing and developing (in the bible only adults are known to have been permitted to fast),
• People in their senior or elderly years since their body organs need a consistent flow of body fluids and nutrients,
• People who are recovering from illness, injury or surgery (operation),
• People who are highly underweight,
• People who have diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, and other chronic health problems.

The rest of us with healthy bodies it’s merely a choice we make – to fast or not to fast. As far as God is concerned health limitations are the only worthy excuse, not busy careers, family obligations or environmental factors.

How to End-Breaking the Fast (Acts 14:23)

1. One hour before- pray harder and thank God for such grace of the opportunity to have intimacy with God through fasting.
2. Reintroduce solid food gradually in small portions throughout the day. Start with fruits, juices and salad.
3. Continue praying-Let the momentum you gained during the past transform your prayer and devotional life.
4. Expect Results

Persevere in prayer. Keep a copy of your prayer points, giving thanks to God as you see how He answers your prayers at the end of the year.

Bible Characters Who Fasted

• Moses fasted twice for 40 days-Following his first fast, Moses received the Law. The second was to turn God’s wrath away from God’s sinful people. Deuteronomy 9:9,18,19

• Hannah, for a child. She was barren and deeply distraught. God gave her release from inner turmoil. Then He gave her a baby boy, Samuel, who grew into a mighty man of God. I Samuel 1:7,8

• Elijah fasted for 40 days while fleeing in fear from wicked Jezebel, who threatened to have him killed. God gave him comfort, boldness and instructions to go back the way he came and anoint new

prophets. 1 Kings 19

• King David for seven days that God might heal his dying, infant child, conceived illegitimately with

Bathsheba. The baby died, yet David experienced God’s wonderful peace through this incredible

trauma. 2 Samuel 12:16-23

• Proclaimed by King Jehoshaphat – When he and his army were surrounded by enemies and

destruction seemed imminent. After proclaiming the fast, they rejoiced with praises and God destroyed their enemies. 2 Chronicles 20

• Proclaimed by Ezra – Prior to a very perilous journey to Jerusalem. Ezra 8

• Nehemiah – For restoration of the city he loved (Jerusalem). Nememiah 1:4

• Proclaimed by Queen Esther – For the entire nation to fast for three days without food or water. They were on the brink of annihilation. Esther 4

• Daniel‘s partial fast of 21 days – He received a vision and revelation of end times. Daniel 9

• Proclaimed by the King of Ninevah– With national repentance to avert disaster through God’s wrath. Jonah 3

• Jesus for 40 days. If God in human flesh fasted, how much more ought we? Matthew 4:2

• John the Baptist – He and his disciples fasted often, as did the Pharisees. Matthew 9:14,15

• Anna – A widow who dedicated herself to prayer and fasting and is honored in the eternal Word of God. Luke 2:37

• Paul the Apostle– He fasted for three days after meeting Jesus on the road to Damascus (while still known as Saul of Tarsus). Acts 9:9 He later wrote in 2 Corinthians 11 that he fasted often.

• Isaiah 58 is the fasting chapter. Read and study it to discover the many benefits of fasting when done God’s way.

 Scriptural Teachings& Examples of Prayer

• using it to overcome temptation. Genesis 3:1-6;

Matthew 26:40-41

• does it change God’s mind? Genesis 18:20-33
• ask God anything but expect anything. Genesis

18:33

• don’t be afraid to ask. Genesis 25:21
• why God may withhold an answer. Genesis 25:21
• turn your worries into. Genesis 32:9-12;

Philippians 4:6-7

• balancing prayer with action. Exodus 14:15
• instead of complaining. Exodus 17:2
• changes attitudes and events. Exodus 32:9-14;

Acts 12:5

• make sure you really want what you ask for.

Numbers 11:4-9

• helps us remember God’s goodness.

Deuteronomy 8:10

• of Joshua. Joshua 7:7-9
• why God may not be answering yours. Judges

13:18; 1 Samuel 28:15; 2 Samuel 7:8-16

• don’t let guilt feelings keep you from praying.

Judges 16:28-30

• when discouraged. 1 Samuel 1:10
• be careful what you promise God in prayer. 1

Samuel 1:11

• is failing to pray for others a sin? 1 Samuel 12:23
• how David responded to God’s “no” answer. 1

Chronicles 17:16-20; 1 Chronicles 22:7-10

• lessons from Solomon’s dedication prayer. 2

Chronicles 6:19-42

• what to request of God. 1 Kings 8:56-60
• don’t always expect immediate answers. 2

Chronicles 7:12

• Hezekiah saved a nation. 2 Kings 19:1-7
• how Hezekiah approached God. 2 Kings 19:15-19
• Jabez remembered. 1 Chronicles 4:9-10
• serious prayer. Ezra 8:23

8

• what it clarifies for us. Nehemiah 1:5
• spontaneous prayer. Nehemiah 2:4
• combining prayer with preparation. Nehemiah 4:9
• for your children. Job 1:5
• assurance of answered prayer brings peace. Psalm

3:5

• God hears every one. Psalm 4:3
• the secret to a close relationship with God. Psalm

5:1-3

• pray even when God seems far away. Psalm 10:1
• moving from prayer to praise. Psalm 54:3-4
• a weapon against evil. Psalm 55:17
• can release tensions of emotional stress. Psalm62:3-6
• places our focus on God. Psalm 77:1-12
• intercessory. Psalm 122:6-9
• why many are afraid to talk with God. Isaiah 7:12
• can change events. Isaiah 38:1-5
• in the midst of panic. Daniel 2:16-18
• how do you react to answered prayer? Daniel

2:19-23

• Daniel’s disciplined prayer life. Daniel 6:10
• we can pray anywhere anytime. Jonah 2:1
• using it to look holy. Matthew 6:5-6
• shallow repetition. Matthew 6:7-8
• persistence. Matthew 6:7-8; Colossians 4:2
• the Lord’s Prayer. Matthew 6:9
• discernment to ask for the right things. Matthew

7:9-10

• God’s attitude toward ours. Matthew 7:11
• importance of praying alone. Matthew 14:23
• relying on the Holy Spirit. Matthew 18:19-20
• can we ask for anything? Matthew 21:22; Mark

10:38-40

• finding time to pray. Mark 1:35
• keys to effective prayer. Mark 9:29
• conditions. Mark 11:22-23
• Jesus’ prayer in the garden. Mark 14:35-36
• how and when God answers. Luke 1:13
• should precede important decisions. Luke 6:12;

James 5:16-18

• puts us under God’s control. Luke 6:19
• important to evangelism. Luke 10:2
• what “constant” prayer means. Luke 18:1
• lessons from Jesus’ longest prayer. John 17:1
• Jesus prayed for us too. John 17:20
• using it to make decisions. Acts 1:12-13
• early believers’ prayers are a model for us. Acts

4:24-30

• don’t be surprised when God answers. Acts

12:13-15; Romans 1:9-10

• God responds at the right time. Galatians 4:4
• how to pray for others. Colossians 1:9-14
• power. 1 Timothy 2:1-4
• pray for government leaders. 1 Timothy 2:2
• what hinders prayer. 1 Timothy 2:8
• with reverence yet bold assurance. Hebrews 4:16
• Christian leaders need our prayers. Hebrews

13:18-19

• most common problems. James 4:2-3
• part of God’s healing process. James 5:15
• rather than revenge. 1 Peter 3:9
• praying in God’s will. 1 John 5:14-15

Start the year 2017 right :Join in the Fast

15 REASONS TO READ THE BIBLE DAILY

1.To be rid of anxiety and have peace  (psalm  119:165 )

2.To set things right when life is out of control (psalm 19:7-8)

3.To have direction and know God’s will (psalm 119:105)

4.To experience healing and deliverance (psalm 107:20 )

5.To grow in the Lord  ( 1st.peter 2:2)

6.To have strength comfort and hope (psalm 119:28,50,114 )

7.To shape yourself and your life correctly ( psalm 119:11 )

8.To be able to see clearly (psalm 119:130 )

9.To know what”s really in your heart (hebrews 4:12 )

10.To build faith (romans 10:17 )

11.To have joy (psalm 16:11 )

12.To understand God’s power (john 1:3 )

13.To have more life in this life (psalm 119:50 )

14.To distinguish good from evil (psalm 119: 101-102)

I recommend developing a life purpose statement. A man once told me his purpose statement was to “Get all you can; can all you get; and sit on the can!” I hope that when you develop your purpose statement, it’ll be more than that.

Don’t be shortsighted, focusing on this life alone. Keep eternity in mind. God created all of us for a purpose. What’s yours?

Here’s a hint. Knowing God has put you on this earth for a purpose becomes clear when you get to know the person of Jesus Christ. With Him, it’s amazing how all things become clear. Otherwise, you end up like the masses, too busy to take time to know why you’re here and too lost to know where you’re going.

Are you racing through life going nowhere fast?

Stop for a second. Look to God in Christ and discover the purpose of your life.

However, there is hope for the person who sincerely desires to change. The power to change like that means admitting we can’t do it on our own. Remember, lasting change comes from within. We need the help of the Lord.

The Bible says if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone and new has come. When we give our lives to Jesus Christ, He transforms us–changes us from the inside out. Instead of just rolling back the odometer and being the same old person inside, He gives us a spiritual heart transplant.

Now, that’s a change for the better. And a change that lasts.

Maybe that is why we tend to schedule our resolutions for change at the beginning of each New Year, hoping the old habits won’t return much as that particular year won’t return. This approach to changing ourselves is symbolic, of course. Real change requires so much more than a New Year’s resolution. It’s tough to break established habits, but remember that there is hope for the person who sincerely desires change. The power for real change means admitting that we are helpless to do it on our own. Lasting change requires the help of the Lord.

The Bible says if anyone is in Christ, he’s a new creation. Christ transforms us when we give our lives to Him. He transforms us from the inside out. Now that’s a change for the better. And it’s a change that lasts.

As we enter the new year, the question we do not need to be asking is what can I do for God?  The better question is this: What does God desire to accomplish in and through me this year?

The book of Job ends on a note of contentment and peace. Job was probably about seventy when the book opens, so he is an old man. What a picture of peace, a contented man. God had greatly blessed him.

Before us stretches a new year, a new beginning. The old is past, put away forever. God invites us always to forget about all the distrust and fears, all the anxieties of the past, all the resentments we have been holding against others, all the grudges, all the criticisms–to put them away and begin again.

On what basis am I going to live in this new year? Will it be on the old basis of it-all-depends-on-me, do-it-yourself goodness before God, trying my best to be pleasing to God and meaning it with all my heart but never realizing the depths of evil with which I have to deal?

Will it be on that basis? If it is, this will be a year in which my life will be characterized by peace, fragrance, and beauty. And so will yours. Or, if we insist on living it on the same old basis, we will find ourselves like these friends of Job, arousing the anger and the wrath of God. Though He is patient and merciful, our only escape will be to repent of our evil and rest upon the righteousness of our perfect substitute and return to God for the blessing that He is waiting to give. That is the choice before us, every one of us. How are we going to live in this new year?

Lord, thank You for this new year that lies before me. I choose You. I choose to depend on You, trust You, and accept from Your hand all that You would give me.