Pastor’s sermon was titled "When to Ask and When to Believe?" First, he reminded us not to allow ourselves to be dulled to God’s blessings. The he directed us to John 16 where Jesus gave “prayer promises”. Jesus was instructing the apostles to ask the Father in the name of Jesus. We ask in two ways: by way of inquiry and for assistance. Once Jesus left this earthly life, the Comforter (Holy Spirit) came to speak and intercede on our behalf. The Holy Spirit knows the mind of the Father. We are to ask, receive and our joy can be complete. John 16:24.
Ask in prayer, believe that you have received, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24. God gives gifts but man does not always use the gifts as given – to be shared in love. All our worldly power is nothing without Love. 1 Corinthians 13:2.
I feel compelled to add a requirement as directed in 1 John 5:14: ask according to His will.
(See lesson on Three Keys to Effective Prayer by Paul J. Bucknell.)
This is consistent with Luke 11:9.
Ask -- in prayer;
Seek -- according to His will;
Knock -- by faith believe you will receive the promise.
This is the wonderful song I was led to use today: Testify to Love!
A Verse for Today1 Corinthians 13:2 NIV
2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.
Lord, please help me to love my neighbors/others as myself. Help me always, in every circumstance, to show your great love and mercy.
[An extra word: Happy Birthday to my sister! I thank God that we share a strong faith.]
I'm glad I read this post. I am going to re-read John 16 plus I checked out the lesson on Three keys to effective prayer.
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