Choose to Have a Godly Christmas (or Choose to Miss Out) / by Patti Greene, Greene Pastures by Patti
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Christmas is right around the corner. It is a time of fun and family for many people, but a time of sadness and loss for other people. We can choose to have a Godly Christmas or to miss out on all that God wants for us this season.
This Christmas will be our family’s first year without my father. You see, he passed away in February with a sudden diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia. From diagnosis to death was only 3 weeks. My mother, my brothers, spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and myself miss him tremendously, but we decided to continue with the fun family time that he always enjoyed with us.
How can we keep having a great Christmas even when losses or tragedies have zapped our spirits over the past year? It’s tough, but well worth considering.
Get Your Mind Off Yourself andThink of Others
Whether it is within your own family and friends or with getting together through volunteering, thinking of others gets us beyond ourselves. It strengthens our character and gives birth to empathy towards others. Being part of another’s happiness makes us want to be a part of their lives. Think about the children we may encounter during the Christmas season. Make them happy! Think of the homeless men and women who need someone to talk to this Christmas. Make them grateful! Think of those who never receive a word of encouragement. Send a note to lift them up!
Be Pre-Prayed Up
To enjoy the season with a Godly attitude, pray before Christmas that your life will appreciate and enjoy the little niceties of the season. Pray that stress will not get you down. Pray that your family will get along. Pray that Christ will be glorified. Pray for forgiveness for any sins lingering in your mind. Repent of bad attitudes such as being jealous of others, or frequently wanting your own way.
Spend Time in the Bible
Let the Word of God soak deeply in your mind to prepare you to think of Christ and his birth during the days and weeks before December 25th. Ask God to speak to you about your life in 2016. Meditate on Christ’s presence in your life during 2017. Decide to follow God with your whole heart in the new year.
Continue with Family Traditions or Create some New Ones
If you haven’t starting making family traditions, start this year. Some family traditions my immediate family have had over the years are getting new sleepwear every year for all in the family. We open them before we open our gifts and wear them the rest of the evening. This tradition has developed from just plain pajamas to creating a secret theme each year for our pajamas. The kids love guessing, but I never tell ahead of time. A recent tradition that I started when grandchildren arrived was to wrap their gifts in different wrapping papers. Camren might have reindeer gift-wrap, Kinley might have peppermints, Crew might have Christmas trees, Chandler might have snowmen, and Harper might have candy cane paper. This is so fun for the kids. They scout out their gifts and they experience so much jubilee when they find one of their cousins’ gifts deep in the pile and hand (or throw) it to them. There are many other traditions you might be interested in.
Read the Christmas Story aloud in Luke 2 while the family listens. It is a big deal in our family because we take the huge heavy family Bible and drag that out for its annual trek to the family circle. The kids love seeing a BIBLE that big. This is an awesome experience in teaching everyone that the real meaning of Christmas belongs to Jesus Christ. Also, saying a blessing before the Christmas meal encourages all to honor our Lord and Savior. Giving everyone a chance to show gratitude for their food, provisions, and health is cleansing to our souls.
Grin and be thankful for any gifts or compliments you receive. When our children and grandchildren observe us being thankful, they will hopefully model our behavior and be thankful this year and years to come. Try chatting with the kids before-hand and show them how to show gratitude for their gifts and meal even when it isn’t exactly what they want. This could come in a “thankful yell” across the room or getting up to give the person a hug or a kiss. And, after the fact, writing a thank-you note is a lovely gesture even for children. They can draw a picture of their gifts or even scribble. It is a great opportunity to teach our children how to write notes and address envelopes too.
Plan Ahead
When we plan in our shopping, in our food preparations, in our travels, and in our time, it helps ease the stress many of us experience during the Christmas season.thank
Using food as an example, if there is any food you can prepare ahead of time, do that. Preparing a huge Christmas or Christmas Eve meal is difficult. But having the host in the kitchen the entire gathering time is disconcerting to guests or family members. It is possible their Christmas celebration isn’t what they want when they never see the host or their grandmother because the kitchen and the dishes are her focus.
Put Christ in Christmas by Talking about Him
Model Christ in your behavior. Go to a Christmas Eve service. Have a manger scene available – kids love the adults in the family to play with the manager characters; watch Christian Christmas movies, and more.
No matter what your situation is during the Christmas season, let your light shine. Be a blessing to someone else. Enjoy the season and remember it is because Christ was born that we have the hope of salvation and eternal life through him.
It’s our choice whether we choose to have a Godly Christmas or to miss out. Choose today!
If you would like to learn more about Patti’s life or work, visit her blog Greene Pastures.
Childhood Interests
Growing up my family valued books and reading. The bookshelves in my parents’ home were always overflowing with novels, magazines, and encyclopedias. Newspapers were delivered in abundance to every home we owned. My two brothers and I were raised to believe that bookcases were an essential piece of furniture in every room.
Where I lived in the northeast, there weren’t any brick-and-mortar libraries close by. Despite that, I found much enjoyment going to the bookmobile that showed up weekly at the local shopping center. While my mother was in the grocery store, I would anxiously and excitedly climb the big bookmobile stairs. I was always in search of the perfect books to check out. Every Christmas I looked forward to receiving good books to read.
By the time I went to high school, I was not as interested in reading anymore. I remember one day my father restricted me to the dining room table until I read an article in a Newsweek magazine. Reading was always valued in my family, and it still is.
As I write this article, my 91-year-old mother is sitting at the kitchen table taking notes from her medical books.
A Call to Writing
As a child when we traveled on our vacations, my parents had my brothers and I write diary entries on our days’ adventures. This was my first recollection of enjoying “collections.” When I was seventeen, I began logging my prayer requests in various types of note-books. Basically, I found myself prayer-journaling before prayer-journaling came into vogue.
For many years I worked as a librarian. One day after retirement, I prayed fervently about what the Lord wanted me to do. In his own way during my quiet time, I was impressed to go into my bedroom closet. My first thought was, “Oh no God, you aren’t going to make me sit in my messy closet and pray, are you?”
As I stood in my closet, I was impressed again to, “Look up.” There stood 42-years of prayer journals on my top shelf. It was then I heard the still, small voice saying, “Patti, I want you to write prayer journals. This is what I have been preparing you for all these years.” While I have tinkered with writing articles and stories most of my adult life, I became serious at that point. My mission was to write prayer journals so others could experience joy, comfort, and security. Blessings which I’d experienced throughout my entire adult life.
Prayer Journals
My devotional prayer-journals combine Bible study and prayer. The two cannot be separated. Each journal includes black datelines, topics, and Scripture verses. As well as a suggested Bible reading, prayer request sections, and a section to honor God with your thoughts.
My prayer is for others to become serious about prayer and Bible study. I practice my writing skills on my own Christian blog Greene Pastures. While I believe “practicing” a skill is of utmost importance, I believe continuous daily practice in communicating with God is essential. That is why I am honored to have the following three journals published with WestBow Press.
Awaken Me: Growing Deeper in Bible Study and Prayer – A 365-day devotional incorporating interesting phrases from the Bible.
Anchor Me: Laying a Foundation in Bible Study and Prayer – A 181-day devotional filled with both spiritual and social issues.
Answer Me: Developing a Heart for God – a 90-day devotional prayer journal for those desiring how to have a deeper prayer life. NEW RELEASE.
A 90-day devotional prayer journal for all ages; This informative and how-to book on prayer is for seekers, new believers, and mature believers. It encourages commitment and devotion to the art of prayer. Learn how God reveals himself through Bible study and prayer. ISBN: 978-1512760453 (Paperback) $11.95 on Amazon.
A 365-day devotional prayer journal for in-depth Bible study; Fun words or phrases from the Old and New Testaments! Perfect for mature believers. ISBN: 978-1490893181 (Paperback) $27.95 on Amazon.
A 181-day devotional prayer journal for growing individuals; The Bible and social issues. Perfect for new believers. It comes with a group study guide. ISBN: 978-1490893174 (Paperback) $19.95 on Amazon.
From a Mother’s Heart: Praying Christian Community into Existence / by Patti Greene, Greene Pastures by Patti
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Our family lives in Houston, Texas. In the fall of 2004, our son Jimmy started his first year at Babson College. It was during this time that God impressed on my heart the absolute need for believers to dwell in union and community in Jesus Christ.
In high school Jimmy applied to many colleges, but after much prayer he made the decision to attend Babson in the Boston, Massachusetts area – which is 1,848 miles away from home.
For background, we are a middle-class family. Jimmy attended a public high school and was raised in Bible-believing churches. Our church, and church friends, were always like family to us.
Jimmy stayed his first year at Babson, but the calls and emails home were increasingly breaking this mom’s heart. That first year was tough for him; for the first time, he was competing with private school kids, prep school kids, and kids much more ingrained in education than he was. The academic standards were higher than expected.
Jimmy was unhappy, stressed, and deeply regretting his college choice. He attended a high school with 3,500 students. He was class president for four years and an outstanding athlete. However, Babson was a D-3 school and there wasn’t much pride in the sports arena compared to D-1 schools. This college was strictly an upper level business school whose attendees consisted of those who considered attending other prestigious schools, e.g. Harvard, Yale, MIT. We were all astonished this was where Jimmy was being led by God to attend. It didn’t make sense to us other than Jimmy had a deep desire to attend a school in the Northeast where he would be challenged academically.
Every day I would come home from work, and I would pray long, hard, and continuously for him. It was sad because my two older children enjoyed their college life, but this post-secondary adversity was a new experience for both my husband, Jimmy, and myself.
I prayed more than I had ever prayed for anything in my life. I prayed for him to find a church family. I prayed for Christian friends. I prayed for him to find a Bible-believing church. I prayed for him to be strong in his faith. I prayed for him to become closer to the Lord. I prayed he would read his Bible. The list could go on and on.
This mom’s heart was breaking. Tears flowed almost daily.
I had been made aware of “prayer-walking” although I had never done it in a church situation before. GotQuestions.org, an online source for answering Biblical questions, defines prayer-walking as “the practice of praying on location, a type of intercessory prayer that involves walking to or near a particular place while praying.” ¹ While unable to be on the Massachusetts campus myself, I decided to prayer walk in my own creative way.
I sat down in the chair in which I normally pray in with a map of the college campus. I “walked” around the campus in my mind, praying for what happened in each dorm. I prayed for Jimmy to meet nice people in the cafeteria and prayed for his classes. Thus, within time, I had prayed for every building on campus, including the chapel, which was mostly used for lectures, not religious events.
I seemed to dwell and pray more in and around the chapel. Of course, in my mind, the chapel represented God, Jesus, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit.
I continued to pray fervently and long. I prayed for any Christian church to reach out in ministry. I prayed for Christian influences to show up. I prayed for spiritual strength. I prayed for the Lord to speak to others to help. I prayed for the community people. I prayed because I love my son and I wanted him to be happy and to keep his Christian faith strong during college.
Campus Crusade for Christ (now known as CRU for Crusade) had occasional meetings on the campus. While CRU was helping to fulfill the Great Commission by winning people to faith in Jesus Christ and building them in their faith, more was needed, e.g. fellowship, Bible study, opportunities to serve.
I was reading the Bible constantly looking for verses to help him and to guide myself in what to tell him.
I was touched by Bible Verses such as:
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word! (Psalm 119:28).
Redeem [him] from the oppression of men, that [he] may obey your precepts. (Psalm 119:134)
Most importantly, I prayed for students to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as their Savior. I claimed verses for these college students to have the ability to stay strong in their beliefs and to avoid evil and temptations.
Our son tried to transfer after his first year to the University of Texas where he was initially accepted, but they wanted him to do summer school first. The timing didn’t work out, and it became obvious that God had other plans. He was going back to Babson.
Long story short: in the fall of 2005, I received a phone call. Jimmy said he went to church. When I asked him where, he said, a church started on the college campus IN THE CHAPEL. When he told me it was a Christian church that believed in the Bible, I was absolutely thrilled!
Never, in my wildest dreams, did I think that a church (a CHRISTIAN church, no less) would be right on the college campus where students could just roll out of bed and be ministered to by the Lord and the community.
The vision of this church is to be a local supportive community of authentic followers of Christ who experience transformation by the grace of Jesus Christ and bring God’s love to the world. It was through their ministry that Jimmy’s attitude changed regarding being at Babson. He met fellow students who were believers – one to this day who is his best friend. He found solace and comfort in meeting Christians from the community. Being invited to meals, dinners, and functions by the members of this church boosted his faith and that of those who attended with him. He played his guitar during the church services.
Finally, after a year of zealous praying, my son and others had a spiritual community of believers that cared for them, guided them, fed them, and loved them for the next three years.
I asked Jimmy (who has been out of that scenario for 6 1/2 years) what his involvement with the church meant to him and his buddies. He said, in his business tone, “It was an excellent way for the campus students to mature in their spiritual life; to see how ‘older’ Christians lived their lives; and to see how Christian employers and businessmen act and conduct business.”
Then, the goose bumps came when I heard what God had been doing behind the scenes the entire first year I was praying. One of the founding members of the church shared with me about how their home-church contacted the chaplain at Babson to ask about the availability of their church meeting in the chapel for services. Much to their amazement, they were told that the only time the chapel was available was on Sunday morning.
What a blessing to see how the Holy Spirit was working things all together as only He can do. Only God can take the prayers of one mom in Texas and one congregation in Massachusetts to work things together for good. There was no doubt in my mind that God started the ministry on the Babson campus and there was no doubt why. He always knows the big picture and puts it all together for His glory.
College is hard enough. Having an outlet for fellowship, love, and good Bible-teaching is a true blessing and outreach. You may not ever know how much it means to these kids, but believe me, it does. I continue to see the spiritual fruits of this Christian community in Jimmy’s life. God knew his unmet spiritual needs and He chose to meet it through this church.
The fall after my son graduated from Babson, the church relocated from the college chapel to a different facility. While I was happy for the church when they moved to a new location, a part of my heart was saddened by the lack of spiritual needs that might go unmet with those college students. But, fortunately, their new location was close to the college campus!
All I can say to this wonderful church is “thank you from the bottom of my heart for being receptive to the Holy Spirit and heeding His call.” While I was praying for a local church, God was creating a “ROLL OUT OF BED CHURCH” for all those Babson students who attended. God answered above all expectations. He even knew that my son would thrive best when church was within a five-minute wake-up time to sitting in a pew.
Praying ‘community’ into existence is powerful. Not only was I impressed by the need for believers to dwell in union and in community in Jesus Christ, I experienced firsthand how prayer can spur Christian community into existence.
Bible Verses:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6).
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching (Hebrews 10:24-25).
Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ (Galatians 6:2).
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).
Prayer:
Dear Father, Thank you for being with me during the difficult and painful times of my life. With your love and power, you can change circumstances and situations. You are an awesome God. May I always trust you to know best. Help me to always realize that through our tough times we grow more in faith and love towards you. Thanks you again. I love you. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
God Bless,
Patti Greene, Member Inspirational Writers Alive
Testimony given with permission from Jimmy.
Houdmann, S. Michael. Got Questions. GotQuestions.org. Accessed 27 Oct 2016.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version containing the Old and New Testament. Wheaton: Crossway, 2001. [All verses come from the English Standard Bible unless noted otherwise]
Edited by E. Johnson
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My Books – Available on Amazon or can be ordered at any retail book store. You may order an autographed copy by clicking on SHOP on this site.
Just in time for Christmas! Answer Me: Developing a Heart for Prayerhas just been released by WestBow Press. I am so excited about this new book. If you or anyone you know is interested in developing a life of prayer, this 90-day prayer journal is perfect.
A 90-day devotional prayer journal for all ages; This informative and how-to book on prayer is for seekers, new believers, and mature believers. It encourages a commitment and devotion to the art of prayer. Learn how God reveals himself through Bible study and prayer. ISBN: 978-1512760453 (Paperback) $11.95 on Amazon.
A 365-day devotional prayer journal for in-depth Bible study; Fun words or phrases from the Old and New Testaments! Perfect for mature believers. ISBN: 978-1490893181 (Paperback) $27.95 on Amazon.
A 181-day devotional prayer journal for growing individuals; The Bible and social issues. Perfect for new believers. Comes with a group study guide. ISBN: 978-1490893174 (Paperback) $19.95 on Amazon.
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Coping with Grief and Loss: Minnie’s Testimony/ by Patti Greene, Greene Pastures by Patti [From Email notifications, click the title for best web viewing]
Grief and loss usually go hand-in-hand. Minnie recently agreed to an interview about how her grief and loss has made her a better person. Her brother, husband, and two sons died. But, God was her support before, during, and after her losses.
This interview took place on August 2, 2016 on the Carnival Liberty cruise ship operated by Carnival Cruise Line. I met Minnie for the first time on the ship. During a breakfast together, I knew her story had to be told.
Life in a Nutshell
Minnie, I really appreciate the opportunity to ask you some very tough and candid questions about your life. In this interview, my goal is to pull out some insights so others may benefit from your life experiences regarding healing, death, grief, sorrow, and the ability to move on. Please tell me a short summary of your life.
I married at a young age in 1962. After having three boys, Jimbo, Kurt, and Paul, I became a single mother through divorce. My first husband and I were unequally yoked in the things of God, so I knew that if I ever remarried, I would only marry a strong believer. I wanted to seek God again, but I didn’t know how to. After some time being a single mom and growing in the Lord, I married my second husband Morgan. We became parents to two lovely daughters: Melody and Robin. My brother died the age of 40 in 1986. My son Kurt passed away at the age of 24 from a tragic motorcycle accident in 1990. My husband Morgan passed away in 2013. My son Jimbo passed away at the age of 51 from alcoholism in 2014. I became a believer at 10-years old and was baptized at Nederland Hillcrest Baptist Church. I have always had a heart for God even though I haven’t always walked close to Him. As a child, I used to put a map on my bed and I prayed for the nations. I am 72-years old now.
Healing and Death
In 1986, you prayed for your brother’s healing. In 1991, you prayed for your husband’s healing. Your brother was not healed, but your husband was healed. Any insights?
In 1986 when my brother was gravely ill, Morgan and I prayed so much for his healing. In the hospital, I was paralyzed with fear. I was so scared and afraid. Now, I know that it was [spiritual] warfare – a fight of faith. God was trying to teach me to walk by faith. I was disappointed because I was learning my new walk with God and I didn’t know why my prayers of faith did not work for my brother. And he died.
Then in 1991, my husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma which is a rare form of cancer directly related to asbestos exposure. Mayo Clinic says, “Mesothelioma is an aggressive and deadly form of cancer. Mesothelioma treatments are available, but for many people with mesothelioma, a cure is not possible.” At the time, I knew I served a powerful God and that He could do anything. One day as I laid beside my husband during his illness, I thought I was smothering to death. But, I went into another room and fell to my knees knowing that God wanted to talk to me, I asked, “Are you going to require my husband’s life to do this?” God responded, “No, I am going to make you a woman of faith over this.” This is when my faith journey began. Many people prayed for my husband during this illness. And, Morgan was completely healed. He lived 22 years after his diagnosis. His medical case is documented at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston, Texas. The doctor said that he only knew of two other survivors of mesothelioma and they were not in the United States.
But, with every loss, I have had, I have become stronger and stronger.
Tell me about the deaths your sons Jimbo and Kurt.
Jimbo passed away from alcoholism in 2014. I took care of him the last year of his life and watched his condition weaken until he passed. In 1990, Kurt died in a motorcycle accident when he was 24-years old. He was also struggling with alcoholism at the time.
When your husband and son Jimbo died, you had time to prepare for their deaths, but when your son Kurt died unexpectedly in the motorcycle accident, was it a different experience?
Very much so. But, I didn’t have any regrets. I had many sweet talks with Kurt before he passed away. He shared an experience he had with God. He said he was in the front yard and a plant had a hot flame flaring up from the gas. God told him, “Kurt, if you don’t change your ways, this is what is waiting for you.” He had another experience seeing the stars, the moon, and the clear skies. The Lord said, “This is what is waiting for you if you come back to me.” Then, one night, Kurt called late at night and he cried and we spent time talking together. So I didn’t have any regrets.
You had mentioned to me that your sons and husband were prepared for life after death. What do you mean?
They all had a personal relationship with Jesus. They knew Him and I know they are in Heaven.
In Jonah 4:6, Jonah mentions, “It is better for me to die than to live.” Did you ever feel that way?
Not like Jonah did. I was not in defeat or despair, because God gave me glimpses of the other side [Heaven]. I realized that it is better to be in the presence of God. I never wanted to die due to my losses.
Grief and Sorrow
Out of all of your life experiences, what was the hardest situation you have ever faced?
It was when Jimbo was 16-years old and Kurt was 14-years old. They both wanted to go and live with their father. It was the first real heartbreak of my life. They were striped from my arms. They both wanted to go where they could drink and have no restrictions. Jimbo was only gone a year because he could not live the Christian life at Daddy’s house. But, Kurt never did come home.
Any other heart-breaking experiences?
What broke my heart more than death was seeing the struggles my sons went through with their alcohol addiction. Jimbo would go off for months at a time and my mind thought the worst. But, I know where they are and God has confirmed that to me.
How has grief and loss affected you?
It has made me a better person. It has helped me to know how real God is. He is true to His word. He has made me stronger. There is nothing He will not sustain me in.
Did you ever ask God, “Why me?”
No. Never.
It appears your sorrows were greatly multiplied more than others. Why do you think that happened to you?
I feel like He’s been preparing and using me to help others during their dark times. I encourage others and help them see that what they are going through is not the end. God does not view death the way we do. He wants us to see death through His eyes. I don’t view death as the end.
Prayer During Tough Times
What was your prayer life like during these times?
After each loss, I experienced grief differently. I gained more insight into prayer and how God works with each loss.
I experienced times of fear when Kurt was in a coma before his passing. I could not pray. Words would not come. I just said the name of “Jesus” over and over.
When I was in the hospital with Kurt in 1990, his nurse whispered in my ear and told me to keep praying. She said, “When you aren’t here with him, I am praying for him.” After Kurt passed away, I could not cry. My mom brought me into the hospital bathroom and said, “It’s okay to cry.” But, I couldn’t.
At the time, I was caring for everyone and I felt God was carrying me in his arms. I found my release after the funeral and I grieved properly.
Moving On
What does the phrase “time is short” mean to you?
It means we are allotted so much time. We must make the most of every day. We should see God’s work in all we do. His handiwork is everywhere. Ephesians 5:15-17 says, “Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”
In 1991, you were impressed that God wanted you to be a “Woman of Faith.” Can you explain that?
When I pray for people, I feel the power of God. I love to read the gospels and life of Jesus. Jesus says in His word that He has given us power and authority on earth to preach the gospel. I’m not a preacher, but we can teach in our everyday lives. We can see people recover when we lay hands on the sick by the power of Jesus has given us. If a child of God does not know about this power and authority, they may live far beneath what God’s purpose is for them.
As you look forward, do you have any goals?
Yes, I want to go to Africa. I just want to touch as many lives as possible. I want to them to be saved, healed, and delivered.
Advice to Others
If you could share one tidbit of wisdom to young women, what would it be?
I would tell young women to let God be the center of their lives. The cry of my heart is that they must pass His name on to the next generation. The greatest gift for children is to pass on a godly heritage. They must guide their children by example. If passing on God stops with us, we will have a lost generation. Another thing I see is people speaking death over their children by talking negatively about them. We must speak life and good things over our children.
After all the grief and loss you have been through, do you have a favorite Scripture passage?
Yes, it is Psalm 91. I would encourage those reading this psalm to substitute their own name in this chapter to make it more personal and meaningful to them.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler
and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his pinions,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
You will not fear the terror of the night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness,
nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.
A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.
You will only look with your eyes
and see the recompense of the wicked.
Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place,
the Most High, who is my refuge,
no evil shall be allowed to befall you,
no plague come near your tent.
For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways.
On their hands they will bear you up,
lest you strike your foot against a stone.
You will tread on the lion and the adder;
the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.
“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him;
I will protect him, because he knows my name.
When he calls to me, I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
Any last thoughts?
I just want people to know Jesus like I know Him. I don’t want people to live for themselves. I want my life to count for Him. I don’t want to waste my life. I see so many people throwing their lives away and living for the NOW. There is so much more and we need to go deeper with God.
Minnie, thank you so much for sharing the love of Jesus with the readers of Greene Pastures. Through teary eyes you shared your heart and soul.
God Bless,
Bible Verses:
May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace! (Psalm 29:11)
Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ. (Philippians 3:8)
For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what punishment! At every point you have proved yourselves innocent in the matter. (2 Corinthians 7:11)
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we don’t know why tragedy and loss come upon some and not others. But, we know that when and if it does come upon us that you are there to see us through. You always know the big picture for our lives. As we seek to understand your will and ways, let us never lose heart that your desire for us is always for our best. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version containing the Old and New Testament. Wheaton: Crossway, 2001. [All verses come from the English Standard Bible unless noted otherwise]
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Devotional Prayer Journals by Patti Greene
Awaken Me – 365-day devotional prayer journal for in-depth Bible study; Fun words or phrases from the Old and New Testaments! Perfect for mature believers. ISBN: 978-1490893181 (Paperback)
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On my blog, I want to write about topics that serve your needs and about what matters to you. I strive to help you with your needs and interests. Therefore, I am inviting you to share your interests with me so the content I write about will be more relevant to you. Please comment on this blog or email me at [email protected] for confidentiality.
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It has been a very busy week for me. I am care-taking my mom in my home. I am the primary person in charge of remodeling my parent’s home. I am trying to make some headway in writing my next devotional prayer journal. I attended a retirement party for a wonderful librarian friend. I spent much needed time getting my hair dyed, and I met and had my picture taken with actress Renee Zellweger! [Yes, she is charming!] So, instead of pressuring myself to write a “real” blog this week, I decided to share 10 quotes on prayer that I ran across as I was researching PRAYER for my upcoming book. I hope you enjoy them!
How can we know whether or not our requests are in line with God’s will? Ultimately, the only sure guide in this, as in every aspect of the Christian faith, is the divine revelations disclosed in Scripture. Stanley J. Grenz in Prayer: The Cry for the Kingdom
Prayer is a time when we should balance our resignation to God’s will with humble expectations resting on His goodness. Richard L. Pratt, Jr. in Pray with Your Eyes Open
Pray that your adult child will have the wisdom to always seek the counsel of godly and wise people. Stormie Omartian in The Power of Praying for your Adult Children
Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God for things agreeable to His will. That puts the center of prayer where it belongs — not on the things we ask for, but rather upon God and His will. Charles L. Allen in All Things are Possible Through Prayer
I wholeheartedly believe that if you genuinely desire to follow Him, He will move heaven and earth to show you His will. How can I say this for certain? Because in order for you to accomplish the good goals God has designed for you to achieve, you must know what He has called you to be and do. (Ephesians 2:10). Charles Stanley in Waiting on God: Strength for Today and Hope for Tomorrow
That which is gained speedily by a single prayer is sometimes only a second-rate blessing; but that which is gained after many a desperate tug, and many an awful struggle, is a full-weighted and precious blessing. Charles H. Spurgeon in The Power in Prayer
At its base, prayer is talking with God. We can pray alone or in a group: silently or aloud; using a written prayer or a spontaneous one. But to be in prayer is more than just speaking words. Scripture portrays a life of continual prayer, meaning a kind of openness toward God in all we do (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Our entire lives should be prayers to God, exhibiting the praise and love of our Creator and Savior. Rose Publishing in What the Bible Says about Prayer
Prayerlessness . . . could be defined as that state in which one prays less than he ought, less than the Father desires, and less than that one himself knows he should. Jack R. Taylor in Prayer: Life’s Limitless Reach
When the answer to our prayer does not come at once, we should combine quiet patience and joyful confidence in our persevering prayer. Andrew Murray by With Christ in the School of Prayer
When you wait on the Lord, you can know for certain that the best is yet to come . . . always. Charles Stanley in Waiting on God: Strength for Today and Hope for Tomorrow
God Bless.
Bible Verses:
And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith. Matthew 21:22
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplications with thanksgiving let you requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. James 5:13
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Matthew 6:9-13
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Have you ever read Christian articles about how you should pray, why you should pray, and to whom you should pray? I have. I’ve even written articles on some of those topics myself. But today I want to share a beautiful testimony that doesn’t just share the how, why, and who of praying. The following testimony is a reminder that prayer really works in our everyday lives and with our everyday problems IF WE LET HIM.
My niece recently shared about how God was recently at work in her life, how it came about, and how she eventually experienced the Lord’s presence and blessing.
“This is my ONE year anniversary with Company B!
I’d like to share a little about my Christian journey over the past few years. I am sharing because my relationship with the Lord has always been very private and personal, and I am working on sharing more about how God has been working in my life. Here it goes!!!
On January 2, 2015, after an excellent Christmas break filled with great food [cooked by my stepmother] and precious time with my sister, I was preparing to leave my parents central Texas home for Albuquerque, New Mexico. Since I had been living and working in New Mexico for the past 3 years, I was accustomed to the long drive. It has always been an extremely boring drive through the long stretch of highway through west Texas.
Weather reports indicated there was a massive snow storm headed for where I was headed! But, my stubborn personality reared its ugly head and I decided to push through and head back home to Albuquerque. My driving route included taking 1-10 to El Paso; then 1-25 straight up to Albuquerque. Little did I know that this trip would change my life forever! Once I passed El Paso and was heading home on I-25, it started snowing really BAD. I found myself skidding, swerving, and hanging on to my steering wheel for dear life. Many vehicles had already veered off the road and I was fearful I might soon be one of them. Then in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico*, I beheld a scene I never thought I would see. I witnessed an 18-wheeler flip over about 200 yards in front of me. Luckily, I was safe and pulled over to the side of the freeway. However I pulled out my phone and called 911 immediately. I gave the emergency dispatcher the mile marker of our location. When the ambulance and fire department showed up, I was free to go. I stayed around long enough to see that the driver of that 18-wheeler was safe and unharmed. I was shaking and sobbing though this entire ordeal.
I felt the devil’s presence on that West Texas road. I was crying and screaming for the Lord to get me home safely. I uttered everything a Christian says when they are scared and fearful.
“I will never defy you again.”
“I will never sin again.”
“I will do anything if YOU get me out of this dreadful weather and home again.”
Well, sixteen hours later I made it back to my small comfy apartment — a little shaken — but all in one piece. And all I could hear was God saying,
“Your time is over here in New Mexico!”
I immediately put in my request for a transfer with Company A. And guess what? I was denied a transfer not once, but twice!
After that in my quiet time, the Lord spoke again.
“This is not the company for you, and I want you to start a job search and pray about this for 60 days.”
The Lord came to speak to me through hints, Bible verses, glimpses, and a quiet revelation of His will.
Whenever I have something going on, I usually have a strict 60 day prayer time. During this time, ALL I do is pray on that one topic. Well about 30 days into the 60 days I had 3 job interviews lined up in my hometown! I interviewed with each company. And about 60 days after I started praying, I accepted an offer with Company B!
I packed up all my belongings and moved within a week.
You see, before my Christmas break, I had been crying every day in New Mexico. I was miserable and I needed relief. The desire of my heart was to stop being miserable. I wanted to move closer to my family and leave New Mexico. But, it took a snow storm and an 18-wheeler to get my attention. I started right then to seriously call out to God in a big way.
I truly believe it was the power of prayer that got me to where I am today. And, I am so grateful for all those who had been praying and supportive in my journey.”
Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.Mark 11:24
How God Answers Our Prayers
Recognize God may create a situation where we are “forced” to call upon Him;
Get right with God;
Make your requests known to God in prayer;
Commit to follow His path;
Meditate on His Word;
Act upon His leadings and prompts;
Get counseling if needed;
Keep listening;
Make a decision;
If you still don’t know what to do, start over with this list until the answer comes.
What steps do you take when praying over a particular situation? Please comment!
Bible Verses:
Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin! Psalm 51:2
Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I pray. Psalm 5:2
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. Psalm 37:5
Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. Jeremiah 29:12
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord. Proverbs 16:33
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7
Prayer:
Mighty God, I thank you for giving me the privilege of calling upon your name. You know my many thoughts, desires, and problems. I bring them to you right now in faith. I trust that you know what is best for me in all situations. Give me you insight and confirmation that I am in your will. I love you and I am depending on you for my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen
*Truth or Consequences” is a spa city and the county seat of Sierra County,New Mexico, United States. In 2012, the population was 6,411. It is commonly known within New Mexico as T or C. It has frequently been noted on lists of unusual place names. Wikipedia
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On my blog, I want to write about topics that serve your needs and about what matters to you. I strive to help you with your needs and interests. Therefore, I am inviting you to share your interests with me so the content I write about will be more relevant to you. Please comment from this blog or email me at [email protected] for confidentiality.
At certain times in our lives, we encounter situations that require us to lift up deep cries, wails, and prayers to our heavenly Father. These prayers may involve our health, our family, our loneliness, or a multitude of other circumstances. Let’s take a look at Hannah’s prayer and discover how Hannah felt and how the Lord chose to answer her prayer. Keep in mind that God always sees the big picture for YOUR life, and God’s answers are always designed especially for you or whomever you are praying for.
In 1 Samuel 1-2, we read that Hannah was married to Elkanah. Elkanah was a Godly man who loved Hannah very much; but the Lord had not blessed their union with any children. Peninnah, also Elkanah’s wife had children. Peninnah continually provoked Hannah because of her childlessness to the point she wept and would not eat. Hannah was embarrassed and grieved with this harsh treatment. Have you ever been at the point, like Hannah, where you have experienced embarrassment, grief, and/or distress? If so, let’s look at the process that Hannah experienced and see if you find any similarities in your life.
God loved Hannah. 1 Samuel 1:5
Hannah had no children. 1 Samuel 1:5
Hannah was embarrassed and grieved. 1 Samuel 1:6
Hannah was provoked, so she wept and did not eat. 1 Samuel 1:6
Her husband loved her. 1 Samuel 1:8
Hannah was distressed. 1 Samuel 1:10
Hannah prayed to the Lord as she wept bitterly. 1 Samuel 1:10
Hannah vowed her unborn child to the Lord. 1 Samuel 1:11
Hannah poured out her soul to Eli the priest. 1 Samuel 1:15
Eli gave Hannah hope. 1 Samuel 1:17
Hannah left with a good countenance and wasn’t sad anymore. 1 Samuel 1:18
Hannah conceived and bore a son – Samuel. 1 Samuel 1:20
Hannah gave her child to Eli as she vowed. 1 Samuel 1:24-28.
Hannah rejoiced and glorified the Lord for his answer. 1 Samuel 2:1-2
How often do we find ourselves in one or more of the steps that Hannah found herself? When I read 1 Samuel 1, I became so impressed that Eli gave Hannah hope. And, it took that hope to get Hannah out of her funk. Proverbs 13:12a says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick. . .” It was hope that made Hannah’s countenance shine. She went away with hope. Through hope, her strength returned. She ate and left with a smile on her face (while still in the midst of her situation)!
When you are facing situations beyond your control, remember HOPE. Even Zophar, in Job 11:18, states, “And you shall be secure and feel confident because there is hope; yes, you shall search about you, and you shall take your rest in safety.”
If a friend or family member is in a distressful situation, give them hope. Tell them they can be secure in the Lord Jesus Christ by confessing their sins and trusting in Him. Pray for their perseverance to ease the sorrow they are facing during their difficult time.
In Luke 13, Jesus healed a woman who had been sick for 18 years. “She was bent over completely forward and utterly unable to straighten herself up or to look upward.” But she encountered Jesus and was “released from her infirmity . . . all the people rejoiced over all the glorious things that were done by Him.”
The complete verse in Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.”
Amen!!! Keep praying and your longing will be fulfilled in His way in due time.
“For this child I prayed; and the LORD, hath given me my petition which I asked of Him.”
1 Samuel 1:27
Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using our BG² List.
In October 1985, I found myself at Cypress Christian School* in Cypress, Texas where my daughter attended a once-a-week Mother’s Day Out program. It was there I picked up a sheet of paper that changed my life and more importantly the life of my children. At the time, I had a 3-year old daughter, a 1-year old son, and I was pregnant with my third child. This mimeographed page became my guide for how to pray for my children. These guidelines have been written in my Bibles, copied for friends, stored in my computer, and more importantly prayed over.
This week I just feel led to share these with you. While I don’t know what your particular situation is or how old your children are, these guidelines may be the one thing that steers you to focus on praying for your newborn, preschooler, elementary age child, pre-teen, teenager and even older. When addressing the Lord over the years, some of the prayers below have been more important than others. For example, when my children were young, I would pray #1 mightily. When they were teenagers, I would pray #12 continually; and all through their life I would pray #9. Praying #3 is a little scary now that they are all adults, but hopefully by praying this when they were little, there is little chance of being in a precarious situation.
But, here is the deal. Praying God’s Word and protection for your children is essential in training them and fostering a healthy and God-centered life. When we become parents, we are in it for the long haul, so no matter what the age of your children, never stop praying for those whom God has given you care over whether they are your own children, your step-children, your God-children, or any child God has entrusted into your care. And remember, praying for your children does not stop once your children become adults. Parenting and praying is a lifetime commitment.
And, if you haven’t been praying for your children, it is not too late. I implore you to start now cultivating a Godly character in your children and their children through your prayers.
That they will know Christ as Savior early in life. Psalm 63:1; 2 Timothy 3:15.
That they will have a hatred for sin. Psalm 97:10.
That they will be caught when guilty. Psalm 119:71.
That they will be protected from the evil one in each area of their lives: spiritual, emotional, and physical. John 17:15.
That they will have a responsible attitude in all their interpersonal relationships. Daniel 6:3.
That they will respect those in authority over them. Romans 13:1.
That they will desire the right kinds of friends and be protected from the wrong friends. Proverbs 1:10, 11.
That they will be kept from the wrong mate and saved for the right one. 2 Corinthians 6:14-17.
That they, as well as those they marry; will be kept pure until marriage. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20.
That they will learn to totally submit to God and actively resist Satan in all circumstances. James 4:7.
That they will be single-hearted – willing to be sold out to Jesus. Romans 12:12.
That they will be hedged in so they cannot find their way to wrong people or wrong places and that the wrong people cannot find their way to them. Hosea 2:6
Bible Verses:
Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.
Ephesians 6:18 ESV [Praying always]
Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
Colossians 4:2 ESV [Continue in prayer]
Pray without ceasing.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 ESV [Pray without ceasing]
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
Romans 12:12 ESV [Continue steadfastly in prayer]
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, let me always remember to pray for my children and those under my care. Give them protection, security, and love as they mature and grow into the person You want them to be. Nurture their character so they will be honest, good, and sensitive to your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.
Tony Evans tells the story about the cowboy who applied for health insurance. The agent routinely asked him, “Have you ever had any accidents?” The cowboy replied, “Well, no, I’ve not had any accidents. I was bitten by a rattlesnake once, and a horse did kick me in the ribs. That laid me up for a while, but I haven’t had any accidents.” The agent said, “Wait a minute. I’m confused. A rattlesnake bit you, and a horse kicked you. Weren’t those accidents?” “No, they did that on purpose.” Now that makes us laugh, but honestly accidents do happen.
There is a difference between accidents, mistakes, and sin. Accidents happen unexpectedly and unintentionally. Mistakes usually occur by judgment errors, misinterpretations, or by not paying attention to details. Sin occurs when we disobey the moral and Biblical instructions put forth in the Holy Bible.
Sometimes accidents kill. If you are reading this blog and you have experienced that type of accident with someone you know and love, I am so sorry. Three weeks ago my nephew’s good friend Adam was hit by a car when the driver failed to yield to the motorcycle he was on – killing him. My nephew was speechless that something like that could have been so easily preventable. We just don’t have the words for it.
But, today we are going to look at suffering and pain from the viewpoint of accidents, i.e. running into a concrete wall during basketball practice, being hit by lightning, electrical accidents. We are going to look at accidents that fortunately are not unto death. We must first understand that accidents do happen! They can happen because of risky behavior or they can happen without warning – with or without any ability on our part to avoid them. While we or a loved one may be in unrelenting or searing pain, the results are left in God’s hands. We know this because Jeremiah says, “For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcomes.”
Nowhere in the Bible does it say that we will be free from accidents. Mistakes and sins we can avoid, but not accidents. Sometimes accidents can’t be explained. Other times they are for a purpose – to test our faith – to keep us from evil – to increase our character – to help someone else in their faith walk.
A few years ago The Bama Group Research did a survey asking people what they would like to ask God. The number one question was that people wanted to ask God is “Why He allows pain and suffering in this world.” People usually ask that question when they are in the midst of a crisis situation or they are philosophically looking for an answer to the question. Either way, the question is asked frequently.
As a believer, when you are encountering pain and suffering due to an accident, how should you react to it?
– Start by having others pray for you. You may need to have a family member or friend contact believers to pray for you. [You may or may not be in any condition yourself to be praying at this point and that is okay.] Having others pray for you is importance for two reasons. Others are encouraged to enter a season of prayer, which they may or may not have been utilizing in their Christian walk. And secondly, God hears the healing prayers of the righteous. On a practical note, I love the phrase I have heard by Aaron Armstrong in Blogging Theologically. He says, “If any among you are sick, pray and get them to a doctor.”
– Recognize that Jesus understands our pain, because he suffered himself.
– Thank God for the strength to keep going – hour by hour, day by day, week by week, or month by month.
– Don’t blame God for your accident. Accidents happen unexpectedly through tragedies, disasters, and untimely incidents.
– Work hard NOT to become like King Ahaz in the Old Testament whose distress made him become more unfaithful the Lord. (2 Chronicles 28:22)
– Recognize that God allows everything for his glory.
During and after a time of pain and suffering, many have said they have become more confident in their walk with the Lord and they feel a deeper compassion towards people. When explaining the Godly results of suffering, Mary J. Yerkes states it best in her article When We Suffer: A Biblical Perspective on Chronic Pain and Illness.Yerkes states:
– Suffering produces intimacy with God (Job 42:5)
– Suffering equips us to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)
– Suffering refines us. (Isaiah 48:10)
– Suffering produces growth and maturity (James 1:2-4)
– Suffering conforms us into God’s image (Romans 8:28-29)
Let’s all try to look at accidents in this way from now on. As I mentioned accidents will happen. Your child may fall off a balance beam and break their arm; you may swallow some money; or you may flip your bike doing wheelies. Whatever it is, let’s remember that God knows what has happened and He is there to get you through your pain, and to show you His intended purposes.
God bless you. Patti Greene
Bible Verses:
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18 ESV
Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 1 Peter 5:9-10 ESV
Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5 ESV
Quotations:
As I look back over fifty years of ministry, I recall innumerable tests, trials and times of crushing pain. But through it all, the Lord has proven faithful, loving, and totally true to all his promises. David Wilkerson
I am not a theologian or a scholar, but I am very aware of the fact that pain is necessary to all of us. In my own life, I think I can honestly say that out of the deepest pain has come the strongest conviction of the presence of God and the love of God. Elizabeth Elliot
God never allows pain without a purpose in the lives of His children. He never allows Satan, [n]or circumstances, [n]or any ill-intending person to afflict us unless He uses that affliction for our good. God never wastes pain. He always causes it to work together for our ultimate good, the good of conforming us more to the likeness of His Son (See Romans 8:28-29). Jerry Bridges
Prayer:
Dear Lord, Give refuge and strength to me (or a loved one) as I (she/he) have encountered a difficult blow leading to tremendous pain and suffering. You alone are my fortress and my rock. Be my comfort. Let me see light soon. Heal me. Show me the purpose in my suffering. When I am healed, let me be used by YOU in a new and mighty way. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.
Recently, my husband and I have been the recipients of “Intercessory Prayer.” Intercessory prayer means that you are offering prayers for others, i.e. friends, family members, co-workers. It is as simple as that. During our need for prayers, we can honestly say we could feel the prayers of others reaching heaven and coming upon us to help us in our situation. Within us, those wonderful prayers created peace, security, healing, and comfort to particular need.
Have you ever noticed that sometimes you can’t pray for yourself or the only thing you can do for others is pray for them? Maybe there has been an accident, an emotional or psychological incident, an unforeseen occurrence, or a spiritual dilemma creating an inability for you to pray. Those are the times to call upon your believing friends so they can lift you up in prayer and support you. There are also times, when you can’t do anything else but pray.
On October 29, 2014, while living in Lagos, Nigeria, an elderly-appearing man knocked on the back seat of the car window when I was stuck in bumper to bumper Lagos traffic. His wrinkles showed a very hard life. His dry swollen hand went up to his dry, cracked, parched lips begging for something to drink. Yes, I had a half Coke Zero in the car, but due to company security policy [due to possible kidnappings and armed robberies which are ongoing in Nigerian cities] we were strongly advised to err on the side of caution and not open our windows or doors for anyone. He stood there for what seems like an extremely long time. All I could do was turn my head away and pray. While I wished I could quench his thirst, I couldn’t. There are really times you can’t do anything but pray.
I have been writing out my prayers out in notebooks and journals since 1973! Yes, I know you don’t think I could be that old, but I was 17 years old when I started. I still have all those journals. It is very humbling to look back over my prayers. One day, I decided to look through some of my “prayer journals” and I saw that early in my Christian walk, most of my prayers were about ME and then about ME some more, but as I matured in the faith, I noticed my prayers had started becoming more about other people. Yes, I still pray about my concerns and life, but they seem to be a lot less about me and more for others now. Praise God.
In the Bible we can find many examples of intercessory prayers. Let’s look at three examples.
EZRA – In the book of Ezra, the scribe and scholar named Ezra, discovers an apathy developing among the Jews returning from Babylon to Jerusalem. The officials told Ezra about the Israelites and Levites not separating themselves from the Babylonians people and about their wicked acts and direct violations of God’s will which included intermarrying with foreign women.
When Ezra heard this, he rent his undergarment* and his mantle*, he pulled hair from his head and beard, and sat down appalled. He trembled. He sat astounded. But then he arose from his depression and he fell on his knees and spread out his hands to the Lord his God. He then says, “O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift my face to You, my God, for our iniquities have risen higher than our heads and our guilt has mounted to heavens. Since the days of our fathers we have been exceedingly guilty; and for our willfulness we, our kings, and our priests have been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, captivity, plundering, and utter shame, as it is today.” [Ezra 9:6-7 AMP] “Now while Ezra prayed and made confession, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, there gathered to him out of Israel a very great assembly of men, women, and children; for the people wept bitterly.” [Ezra 10:1 AMP] Within this example, we can see the dire pain that Ezra felt toward those returning Jews. He was interceding on their behalf. Have you ever interceded for someone with that much depth and passion before?
Another person who came boldly to God’s throne in prayer is Paul. Paul prayed many times for believers in the New Testament. In Philippians 1:9-11 ESV, Paul prayed, “And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so 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.”
Jesus was probably the ultimate intercessor of all times. He prayed for Peter that his faith would not fail. [Luke 22:32] He prayed for believers and His disciples. He prayed for those who crucified him. Many times Jesus prayed with deep cries and tears for those around him. As Jesus prayed, so should we.
But how do we know for whom to pray? There are so many people and so many needs. While not an exclusive list, I have found most of my directions to pray for someone has come from these sources.
Seeing a need;
Feeling a holy hunch that someone/some issue needs prayer;
Hearing about a need and it being brought to my attention; and
Discerning a possible prayer need.
Intercessory prayer is powerful. It is like putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, feeling their pain, and praying from God’s perspective. Let’s look around us this week and see for whom God brings to us to pray. There are many faces today that need our prayers. Look for that face in the crowd. And pray diligently and boldly.
In Jesus’ Name.
Bible Verses:
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people. 1 Timothy 2:1
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26
Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. James 5:16
Prayer:
Jesus, let us pray in your power and strength. Lord, show us people and issues that need our attention in prayer. Imprint their needs upon our hearts so we can’t let go until prayers have been lifted up for them. Let us pray as you would – seeking God and trusting all outcomes to You. Take our prayers and bring them to the Father. Let your will be accomplished through our prayers. Cleanse us so we can receive Your wisdom and discernment in all we do. Thank you Lord. Amen.
God bless you. Patti Greene
* The undergarment was a tunic.
* In biblical times, a mantle was typically a large, loosely fitting garment made of animal skin, probably sheep skin.
Breneman, Mervin. Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther: an exegetical and theological exposition of Holy Scripture (The New American Commentary). Holman Reference. 1993.
“What in a mantle in the Bible?” Got Questions Ministries. [15 June 2015.]
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