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mr880fan · 10 months ago

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25 Inspiring Bible Verses About Prayer

I used to think that praying was a weakness of mine and that I was really bad at it. Whether I was alone or in a group, when it was time to pray, I often felt like I just couldn’t come up with the right words (if any!). In my faith tradition, I saw a lot of people speak beautifully and spontaneously—and that was hard for me. Over time, I’ve grown in confidence. There isn’t just one way to pray. As I’ve studied many Bible verses about prayer, I’ve been encouraged to learn that there are endless ways to pray and connect with God! Whether you speak aloud from the heart, recite a common prayer, or contemplate in silence while the Holy Spirit moves, they all have their place. Related Reading: Tired of Boring, Routine Prayers? Here are 10 New Ways to Pray!

What Does the Bible Say About Prayer?

The Bible presents prayer as the way people communicate directly with God, their Creator. It includes many examples and encourages believers to approach the Lord with faith, humility, and perseverance while seeking His guidance, wisdom, comfort, and strength. Many Bible verses about prayer demonstrate practical and powerful ways the people of the Bible could pray—and we can, too.

Examining Verses About Prayer in Hebrew and Greek

When we read Bible verses about prayer in modern English, they are translated from the ancient languages the Bible was originally written in, Hebrew and Greek. These words are rich with meaning—in fact, multiple words in the Biblical text are translated to “prayer” in English. If you want to take a deeper dive, take a look at a free resource like Blue Letter Bible, where you can see how words are translated and what they mean. It’s also helpful to examine commentary from experts in those languages to understand the full meaning of verses about prayer. For example, according to AlephBeta, Tefillah (Heb. תפילה; te-feel-ah) is the Hebrew word for prayer. The word itself contains a range of meanings. The Hebrew root פלל connotes “executing judgment” (Exodus 21:22) or “thinking” (Genesis 48:11). In this sense, the word להתפלל, to pray, may also refer to a process of accounting or contemplation. While tefillah is the most common, generic word for prayer, the Bible uses many other terms as well. For example, the word עתירה (atirah), related to “digging” (Genesis 25:21); תחינה (techina), which means “supplication” or “begging” (Deuteronomy 3:23); and שיח (siach), which connotes “conversation” (Genesis 24:64, Pslams 102:1). The Bible has a rich vocabulary of prayer that represents a broad range of different approaches and types of prayers, each with its own unique quality and flavor (emphasis added). In Greek, the language of the New Testament, the word most commonly translated to “prayer” is proseuche. This article on prayer from Renner Ministries explains the significance of that word to the original audience. As you can see, there is much to learn about prayer in the Bible! The verses about prayer listed below are just the beginning (but they’re a great place to start). Related Reading: How to Study the Bible for Beginners

25 Meaningful Bible Verses About Prayer

There are so many Bible verses about prayer that the best way to consider all of them would just be to read the whole Word of God! However, if you’d like to reference a few, this selection from both the Old and New Testaments covers many of the elements of why and how to pray. All of these Bible verses about prayer are found in the NIV (New International Version), but you could also read them in the King James Version (KJV) or English Standard Version (ESV). 1. Exodus 33:11 The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend… I love how one of the earliest verses about prayer paints a picture of two friends talking to each other. That is a beautiful way to approach praying to God. 2. 1 Samuel 1:27 I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. This verse is part of one of the longer Scriptures about prayer: the story of Hannah, the prophet Samuel’s mother. She was in great anguish about her infertility and poured out her heart to God in lament and begged for a child. He granted her request. This is one of the first examples of a prayer of supplication: humbly asking God to provide something. 3. 2 Chronicles 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. These Scriptures on prayer present a message from God to His people who have rebelled. He reminds them that no matter what they have done if they seek Him in humble repentance, He will offer forgiveness and healing. 4. Psalms 13:1–2 How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? These verses about prayer take the form of lament. There are many prayer Scriptures like this in the Bible. We can take our pain and our questions to God in prayer, even when it seems like He doesn’t see us. 5. Psalm 27:7–8 Hear my voice when I call, Lord; be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!’ Your face, Lord, I will seek. The Psalmist here demonstrates boldness; these Bible verses about prayer show how we can approach God in a way that asks for His attention. 6. Psalm 34:17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. In one of many verses about prayer in the Psalms, this prayer Scripture reminds us that God hears us when we pray and cry out to Him. He will answer. 7. Psalm 55:17 Evening, morning, and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice. Once again, God hears. Note that the writer in this Scripture on prayer calls out to God repeatedly. 8. Psalm 59:16 But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. Not all verses about prayer are requests for help. In this Psalm, the writer offers a song of praise for God’s great power and love, which is instructive for our prayers. 9. Psalm 145:18 The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. This Scripture on prayer reminds us that not only does God answer prayer, but He is near to those who call on Him. You can remember this when it seems like He is far away. 10. Jeremiah 29:11–12 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” These famous verses about prayer paint the picture of the relationship between God and His people who are in exile. This is part of a longer letter in which He tells them to be patient while they wait 70 long years for their deliverance. Even though it seems like He is slow to answer, He offers hope and a future for them and will listen to their prayers. 11. Matthew 6:5–8 And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Jesus has several verses about prayer in the Sermon on the Mount. His point here is that prayer full of empty phrases done for show is its reward. Meaningful prayer has nothing to do with performance and is all about your relationship with God, like a parent and child. 12. Matthew 6:9–13 (also Luke 11:2–4) This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today 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 the evil one.” In these verses about prayer, known as the Lord’s prayer, Jesus continues teaching by providing a framework for talking to God. It is simple yet profound, summarizing who God is and how we may humbly approach Him. 13. Matthew 7:7–8 (also Luke 11:9–10) Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Towards the end of the Sermon on the Mount, there are more verses about prayer in which Jesus encourages His followers to be bold in their prayers. A loving God wants to provide good gifts to His children. 14. Matthew 26:39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” In more verses about prayer later in Matthew, Jesus provides an example before He goes to the cross. He is in great distress and is honest about it, but He is still ultimately surrendered to the will of God. 15. Mark 11:24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. This Scripture on prayer challenges us not just to ask God for our desires, but to believe that we will receive them. 16. John 16:21–24 “A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.” These verses on prayer are a little more cryptic, but Jesus is trying to provide His disciples with hope during a time of sorrow, which is temporary. He reminds them that God will give them what they ask for. And because of who He is, they can pray in His name—with His authority. 17. Romans 8:26 “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.” Sometimes, we don’t know what to say when we talk to God, and that’s okay. There are many times I’ve sat in wordless contemplation. This Scripture on prayer says that the Spirit prays for us in mysterious groanings, which is a great comfort if you’ve ever been overwhelmed, numb, or wordless for any reason. 18. Ephesians 6:18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Paul instructs believers in this Scripture on prayer to talk to God on all kinds of occasions. Nothing is trivial or off the table—, if we’re alert, we can be in prayer pretty constantly. 19. Philippians 4:6–7 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. These are some of my favorite Bible verses about prayer because they address the heart. In every situation, we can ask God for help, find gratitude, and seek the powerful peace of God through Christ. 20. 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. The Apostle Paul seems to be hitting on a theme in his verses about prayer! We are to pray without ceasing, with gratitude. 21. Hebrews 4:15–16 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. These Bible verses about prayer remind us that we are not talking to some distant power. Jesus, our “high priest,” became fully human and understands everything we go through. We can thus be confident going to God, who listens, understands, and helps us when in need. 22. James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. These Scriptures on prayer make it clear that it is something to be done in the community. When we pray with each other and for each other, we find God’s power and healing. 23. 1 Timothy 2:1–2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. In his instructions to a young pastor, the Apostle Paul says that we are to pray for everyone, especially those in power who may or may not honor God. These are challenging verses about prayer because they nudge us to look at the big picture and find hope in God’s kingdom when we pray. 24. 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. In one of the simplest Scriptures about prayer, the Apostle Peter says to cast all our cares on the one who cares for us. 25. Revelation 5:8 And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people. It’s appropriate to wrap up these Bible verses about prayer with this image of what prayer looks like to God. It says the prayers of His people are like incense to Him. Through our prayers, we worship Him and fill up His house with wonderful fragrance. Related Reading: How to Start Prayer Journaling (With 20 Prompts for Women!) Want to put some of these Bible verses about prayer into practice? I have 7 days of prayer prompts to get you started. What do you think about these Bible verses about prayer? What did you learn, and what do you want to apply to your own life? Source link Read the full article

#25 #about #bible:#faith #inspiring #prayer #uncategorized #verses

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blessedarethebinarybreakers · 5 years ago

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Normally I don't like to ask stuff but I feel distressed. My mom is arguing about a preaching that she heard where it says that the antichrist will be gay. She quotes the book of Daniel, particularly Daniel 11:37. Her argument is that Daniel is a prophecy book therefore it must be true. It just really hurts that she'd say this to me and keeps making remarks about my faith. That I'm not a good enough Christian for not believing like her. Is what Daniel say true or is the interpretation wrong?

Hey there. I’m sorry to hear you’re distressed, and especially that your mom keeps making remarks about your faith. It is not right for any of us to judge another person’s faith like that!

This is gonna get long, so for a tl;dr, after studying Daniel 11 and its surrounding context I can say pretty confidently that your mom is indeed wrong about how to interpret 11:37. If you want to explore just why with me, read on!

______________

So to start with, I disagree with your mom that everything in the Book of Daniel, or in any “prophecy book” of the Bible, must necessarily be “true” – or “come true” as if it were fortune telling. Biblical prophecy is not fortune telling or future telling. As I say in this post, biblical prophets were actually much more concerned about the present, about how the past had shaped that present, and about how the present could be used to shape the future! This is just a fact of how ancient Israelites viewed prophecy, regardless of how one interprets scripture (whether more fundamentalist / literal as I imagine your mom probably is, or more historical/contextual, etc.).

Christians who get really into all the biblical visions of “the end times” and the rapture and stuff don’t want to hear this, because they want it to be somehow directly relevant to them and their futures (and that’s understandable), so the following paragraph is just some information for you rather than anything that’s likely to convince your mom:

Most biblical scholars say that most of the biblical prophecies aren’t about “The End Times” the way we conceive of it. The Book of Daniel’s prophecies do include some talk of the actual end of the world, but – like the Book of Revelation in the New Testament – the majority of his prophecies actually refer to kingdoms and intrigue going on in Daniel’s own time (or not so long before or after his own time).

I have not studied Daniel’s prophecies, like, at all besides reading through them, so I can say more about how the Book of Revelation is less about “the end of the world” and more about “the end of the Roman Empire;” but Daniel follows a similar trajectory of being more about the fall of the empires that have oppressed his people than about the end of the whole world. If you have a Bible that offers footnotes about the historical context going on in any given passage of scripture, it will tell you all about that – that Daniel’s prophecies discuss the sequence of Babylonian, Median, and Persian rulers that oppress his people and criticize those oppressive kings.

Thus when you go to look at Daniel 11 (and 10), you see that Daniel isn’t talking about “The Antichrist” in this passage – indeed, that title “Antichrist” is not used at all in this Book, or in any book of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) at all! – but rather he is talking about a Persian king who is going to arise and oppress his people. The New Interpreter’s Study Bible suggests in its footnotes for 11:37 that the specific king Daniel’s talking about is Antiochus, who “grew exceedingly arrogant: He abandoned his ancestral gods and imposed the worship of Zeus Olympus” – hence 11:37′s statement that he “shall pay no respect to the God’s of his ancestors.”

Now that we’ve reached the verse itself in our discussion, let’s have a closer look at Daniel 11:37. The New King James Version reads,

“He shall regard neither the God of his fathers nor the desire of women, nor regard any god; for he shall exalt himself above them all.”

The part of this verse that is used by some to claim that “the antichrist” (if you interpret this passage as even being about the antichrist, despite the context pointing to it actually being about a Persian king) is gay is, of course, “nor the desire of women.”

But along with that seeming like a very random tangent for the prophet to mention in a verse that otherwise is about this king abandoning all gods, the issue with biblical Hebrew is that sometimes getting a precise meaning out of it is hard. Thus “nor the desire of women” is not the only translation into English that one can make from the Hebrew. I’ll list some other translations that have been made (and you can see tons more here):

KJV: “nor the desire of women”

NASB: “or for the desire of women”

NIV: “or for the one desired by women”

ESV and NRSV: “or to the one beloved by women”

New Living Translation: “or for the god loved by women”

CEB: “and the god preferred by women”

Now, there are many conservative Christians who believe that the King James Bible is never wrong, and therefore they’ll insist that the translation to “nor the desire of women” is the one “correct” translation. But even if that is the case, what exactly does “the desire of women” mean in English? Does it mean:

that this guy doesn’t desire / isn’t attracted to women, as your mom believes?

could it also mean that he doesn’t care if women desire him? aka he might still desire them, and doesn’t give a damn about whether they like him back

or does it mean that he doesn’t care what women desire/want – i.e., that he won’t listen to them about what they want, perhaps in regards to what gods he respects, since that’s what the rest of the verse is about?

Moving to look at those translations that translate it “the god loved/preferred/beloved by women,” some suggest that this meaning: just as the guy has no regard for “the god of his ancestors,” likewise he has no regard for the god[s] of his wives/concubines. There are examples in the Hebrew Bible of women having different gods from their husbands – Jacob’s wife Rachel takes her household gods with her into his house; Solomon’s many foreign wives convince him to worship their gods with them. So if the Hebrew here, hemdath nashiym, is translated something about “the god loved by the women,” that’s what it could be about – this guy won’t be swayed to worship any god, whether his own family’s gods or his wives’ gods.

That above reasoning makes much more sense within the context of the verse than it being like “So this guy won’t care about his ancestors’ god, oh also by the way he’s gay or whatever, and back to the god thing, he’s gonna exalt himself over all gods.” It would be such a random tangent!

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So that’s all the language and history stuff. Now let’s get hypothetical:

so…what if your mom is right? So what if the verse is saying “this guy isn’t attracted women”? (and for the purpose of this hypothetical, let’s say the verse is about the antichrist though as I discussed above I do not believe that it is.)

First off, just because he doesn’t desire women doesn’t necessarily mean he does desire men. He could be asexual and/or aromantic. That wouldn’t be much better, of course, because we’d be moving from homophobia into aphobia. Asexual and aromantic folks get vilified enough with the stigma that “oh you can’t ~~love~~?? you monster!” So I definitely do not like the supposition that the antichrist is ace/aro; that’s just as icky as him being gay.

But again, we’re in hypothetical land: so let’s say the antichrist is gay, or is aroace. ……..So what??

Gay people, aroace people, aren’t all perfect and good people. We can be badguys too, ya know? If the antichrist were cishet, it wouldn’t mean that All Cishet People Are Therefore Like The Antichrist – so if the antichrist were gay, why would it therefore mean that all gay people are like the antichrist?

He’s just one person. A big bad person – but his sexuality isn’t necessarily a part of that. He’s not evil because of whatever his sexuality is or isn’t.

I will close by offering some counterbalances to a supposedly gay (or aroace, or otherwise LGBTQA+) antichrist: there are also LGBTQA+ heroes in the Bible.

Daniel himself may well be one of them!!

To start with, Daniel is most likely a eunuch: after all, he has a position in the Babylonian court, and as David Bayliss notes, “it was customary for Mesopotamian kings in the first millennium BC to surround themselves with eunuchs as servants.” The Bible itself attests to this fact, in places like Isaiah 39:7 that talks about youths being taken from Judah to serve Babylon’s king as eunuchs. Along with those two facts, Bayliss continues with more evidence that Daniel was a eunuch:

Third, the fact that Daniel and the other captured Israelite youths were entrusted to the “chief eunuch” suggests that they were to become young eunuchs themselves.

Fourth, boys to be made into eunuchs were usually selected for their beauty, which is mentioned at the top of the list of selecting criteria in Dan 1:4.

Fifth, there is no mention of Daniel or his companions ever marrying (or having children).

Sixth, Daniel showed no interest in returning to Jerusalem after Cyrus the Great came to the throne (who allowed exiles to return to their homelands), which may have to do with his physical humiliation and the Deut 23:1 ban.“

Now, why’s it matter if Daniel’s a eunuch?? What’s that got to do with being LGBTQA?? Many queer scholars, myself included, have argued that biblical eunuchs share many similarities to gay people, or trans people, etc. I talk about the connection between biblical eunuchs and contemporary trans people in the section of this webpage titled “ ‘Better than sons or daughters’: Isaiah 56″.

(For other resources on eunuchs’ link to LGBT folks, see here, here, here, here.)

On top of that, some scholars have suggested a romantic/sexual relationship between David and the head eunuch under which he served, Ashpenaz. According to Daniel 1:9, Daniel enjoyed “the favor and tender love” of Ashpenaz. This could be a totally platonic thing, or it could be physical; the Hebrew is ambiguous.

You might not be able to stop your mom from making her awful comments, but maybe being able to respond in your head to her “the antichrist is gay!” with “no, Daniel was gay” will help you a little.

Please keep safe, and do what you can to keep your mom’s crap from getting to you (I know that’s much harder said than done). You are beloved by the God who made you, friend. And scripture is much queerer than hateful Christians want to admit.

#the antichrist #antichrist #apocalyptic literature #daniel #the book of daniel #homophobia #essays #thelandofladymarvel #reading and studying the bible #prophets

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dalyunministry · 4 years ago

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Apostle. John Makaya

✨

I Welcome you all in the name of Jesus for today's ministrations prepared your mind and heart to hear from God.

Let us pray Heavenly Father most everlasting king we thank you for today father we thank you for our lives and the lives of other thank you for your grace, protection and blessings father I pray as we are about to partake of your word give us wisdom to understand your word today in Jesus name give us the grace to live and move by your word in Jesus name Father we thank you for in Jesus name we pray Amen.

SUBJECT: Radical Generosity

TEXT:John 3:16

[John.3.16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. [KJV]

In this scripture the Bible says "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,"

God gave his one and only son for the world to be saved

The scripture didn't say God gave his second son out of five or God gave his only son out of three with two girls the Bible says only son com'on you're not getting it the scripture means God was having only one Child a son and he generously gave his son out of love to save me and you

How many of us can do what God did?? No one In this generation will do so there's no mother or father that will give his only son or daughter for people to be saved. We thank God for Jesus because there are no more blood shedding and sacrifices God was so generous to have gave his only son to die for our iniquities.

You people are not getting it God didn't give out of his abundant or out of plenty but he gave the only last one he has oooh what a giver he is so generous. And that is not the first time of God giving to his people since creation he gave us all that we need to live successfully in this Earth and he has also be generous to our fore fathers and he's still generous to us. In applying this scripture to our lives it is a specific command from God if you are a child of God then you must learn to give not only to give but to generously give either little or small. Because in Genesis the Bible says God made man in his image and likeness if you are the likeness of God then it a mandatory to be generous God gave because he love us there is no way you can show how much you love people if you don't give Hallelujah in this generation if you are a giver you will be recognized as the loving person.

Learn to give to people in need don't be too greedy to hold onto what others needs Jesus said give to those in need. In this festive month what have you given to people that are in need your wardrobe is full but you can't give out you are even demanding for more what a selfishness you have plenty money in your account your neighbor is suffering you can't help your shoe rage is full your neighbor is without even one what love have you shown.

Remember we have two ways of giving/generosity we have people who give out of their abundant they only give when they have in abundant and we also.

Have people who give the little the have on them the give their last to see others happy those are the type of givers Jesus is looking up to it doesn't mean the first giver is not a giver is a giver but not a perfect giver giving comes from the heart when you give your best out your are indeed a perfect giver not when you take half of it or even give unpleasant ones like Cain.

Give your best to people no matter how small or big give it out the windows mite demonstrate a perfect giver she gave the last she had that was why Jesus noticed her giving. Don't be people that show off in the name of giving give without expecting rewards for the person you are giving give because God said so and God will reward you if you give and expect the person to give back then your guys are in thrift and craft give and get reward from God.

The Bible said "give and it shall be given unto you " some of us are not receiving from God/man because you don't give the command is so specific that there's no other way to fulfill the command only when give then you will receive. If you are righteous with God but you're not enjoying his blessings search your giving status it might be that you are greedy or you give but not a perfect one God is expecting check your self now let giving don't stop your blessings learn to give now.

I pray and come against any spirit of greed in you to vanish this moment in Jesus name.

Remember a man reap what he sow if you sow greed you will reap greed there is no way you can sow grandnut and reap rice.

Gal.6.7 - Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. [KJV]

The option is yours to start giving when you give out you are sowing a seed God will double it and give you back just imagine the farmers who sow one seed of grandnut and gain more than 10-15 grandnut out of that one that how God blesses people who give out as a sign of sowing

Give More, Have More, One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. (Proverbs 11:24, NIV)

In the natural, it doesn’t make sense that you will have more if you give more. But God’s kingdom operates on the principle of sowing and reaping. This is one of the first things He established with Adam and Eve in the book of Genesis. He said, “As long as the earth remains, there will be seedtime and harvest.”

Today, no matter what you need, you have it in seed form. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how to plant and water that seed. Trust Him because He is faithful to His Word. Know that when you give, it will come back to you in greater measure. When you give more, you have more. So sow a seed and watch what God will do!

Whether you realize it or not, everything you are experiencing in your life today is a direct result of the seeds you’ve sown in your past. Today, you are planting seeds for the harvest in your future. Just as the farmer expects a crop from the seeds he sows, we can expect a harvest from the seeds we’ve sown, good or bad. That’s why we have to be deliberate about the seeds we are sowing. We have to wake up every day and set our minds on God’s Word and choose to speak His truth over our lives. We have to constantly evaluate our actions to make sure we are depositing good seeds so we can reap a good harvest in the future.

Why don’t you take some time right now to ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and mind? See if there are any negative seeds that you’ve sown in the past that need to be uprooted. Be deliberate about planting the Word of God in the soil of your heart. Sow good seeds into your future so you can reap the harvest of blessing God has designed for you!

Say this prayer slowly Father, thank You for the system of sowing and reaping. Thank You for giving me good seed to sow! I ask that You search my heart and mind and show me where to sow my seed so I can reap the abundant harvest You have for me in Jesus name. Amen.

I pray you obey God word in the area of giving in Jesus name

Father I pray oo Lord that you give wisdom to your people today in the area of giving in Jesus name you said your people suffer because of lack of wisdom father fill them up with wisdom to flourish in all their life let them learn to give in Jesus name.

God bless you all don't forget to share this ministrations with friends, family and neighbors.

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nolimitsongrace · 5 years ago

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The Power of Praise (Thanksgiving Day)

Unleash the Power of Praise and ThanksgivingNovember 14, 2019

There is untapped power in praise and thanksgiving that belongs to you! This Thanksgiving, serve up a hearty portion of praise and thanksgiving!

We are so blessed in the United States to have Thanksgiving as a national observance to thank God and honor Him for all He has given us. It’s a time to stop the hustle, bustle and busyness of life to be grateful for our freedoms, family, friends and abundant life. What most people don’t know is that a thankful and grateful heart isn’t just a nice experience to have or a desirable attitude—there is spiritual power in praise and thanksgiving.

As Christians, we are called to unleash the power of praise and thanksgiving every day of the year. What power? The power to defeat the devil and unlock victory! Most people think praise is what you do after you get what you’re believing or praying for, but that isn’t true.

Andrew Wommack says, “Praise isn’t like the caboose that just follows what happens, but it’s more like the engine of a train that makes things happen.”

Kenneth Copeland says, “Praise is the big gun of faith.”

The devil wants to keep you from thinking about praise and thanksgiving while you’re in the process of believing, because he knows it’s an important key to breakthrough. Remember when Paul and Silas were locked up in the bowels of a prison? Things looked pretty grim. Most people would be begging and pleading with God to get them out, or considering all the ways they’d served Him and wondering how they could possibly deserve what was happening.

Instead, Paul and Silas “were praying and singing hymns to God” (Acts 16:25, NIV). The result? “All the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose” (verse 26). All the doors. Every chain. All because of praise and thanksgiving to God.

Do you need a breakthrough? A prison door opened? Chains to come loose? When you learn what can be accomplished in the spirit realm, you will want to activate the power of praise and thanksgiving in your life every day. Unleash the power of praise and thanksgiving with these truths.

The Bible promises you can live a life of abundance and victory through faith! Order Faith: How It Works MP3 by Kenneth Copeland, Nov. 17-23, 2019, and receive half off!

1. Praise and Thanksgiving Balance the Scale“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” –Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Notice that Philippians 4:6 says we are to present our requests to God “by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving.” Quite often, we can get so wrapped up in our needs and desires that our prayers can end up sounding like a long list of what we don’t have, what we want and what we need, without much time spent praising the One whom we are petitioning. There’s nothing wrong with asking for God’s help, but we should also be taking the time to thank God for everything He has done and is doing for us. Praise and thanksgiving balance the scale in our prayer lives and can mean the difference between receiving and going without.

Kenneth Hagin once shared a testimony that illustrates this point quite well. He told of a missionary who had contracted smallpox before there was a vaccine. In fact, at that time, it was quite often fatal. This missionary began praying to the Lord regarding her sickness, when the Lord gave her a vision of an old-fashioned balance scale. One side was labeled “Prayer” and the other “Praise.” She noticed in the vision that the “Prayer” side was stacked up high, while the “Praise” side had just a small stack, causing that side to sit way up high—the scale was out of balance.

The Lord spoke to her and said, “When your praises equal your prayers, you will be healed.” She spent two days doing nothing but praising God—she had to get caught up! And during this time, she didn’t ask God for anything—she simply praised Him. At the end of those two days, she was completely healed. That’s the power of praise and thanksgiving!

Do your praises equal your prayers? Is your scale balanced? Don’t wait to offer praise and thanksgiving to God until things are just as you like them to be—praise Him in every situation,. Praise Him for who He is and what He’s done in your life. Praise Him that you’re saved, delivered, healed and headed for heaven. Praise Him as your Creator, Restorer, Friend, Counselor, Comforter and Strong Tower. There is so much to be thankful for! Take time to thank Him each and every day. Then, watch as power is released into your circumstances in a way that scared and begging prayers can never accomplish.

Watch Kenneth and Gloria Copeland teach you how to overcome stress and anxiety with praise!

2. Praise and Thanksgiving Neutralize the Devil“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” –1 Thessalonians 5:18 (KJV)

Ever wonder why the devil tries to get you to complain and grumble? He knows it is a strength sapper, a faith drainer and a dream killer. He knows it will keep you wandering around in the wilderness for 40 years, instead of arriving in your promised land in 11 days. (No, thank you!) More importantly, he doesn’t want you to know this: Praise and thanksgiving neutralize the devil. They are like kryptonite to him.

Praise and thanksgiving are powerful spiritual weapons that come from highly developed faith, and they are often the final step before receiving from God. They are sure signs that you have faith in His Word, have eradicated all unbelief, and have fixed your mind solely on His Word. That’s a powerful place to be!

Looking for something to read at the Thanksgiving table? Find 17 Scriptures for Thanksgiving Day here.

Bill Winston says, “Praise is much more than just music; it is a powerful, spiritual warfare tool. God never meant for you to fight your battles alone—Praise will shift the battle from you to God. Praise gives you strength and stops Satan in his tracks.”

How do praise and thanksgiving give you strength? They build your faith and keep you thinking right. When you slip into wrong thinking, Satan can gain access to your life. Praise and thanksgiving are vital weapons in your warfare against Satan and his forces.

So, when you’re standing in faith and things start to look opposite of what you’re believing for, keep the praise of God on your lips. Continue to praise Him for the answer. Don’t be moved by circumstances; just keep your eyes on God’s Word; and praise and thank Him that the mountain in front of you is moved. Praise and thanksgiving will always send the devil packing!

Even physical weariness has to flee when it’s faced with real joy-filled praise. Years ago, when Gloria Copeland first began conducting Healing School, she had a real battle with fatigue. She’d minister and lay hands on the sick for so many hours at a time that by the time the meeting had ended, she was sometimes too physically weak even to close the service.

In one particular meeting, she had just finished praying for those in the prayer line, and as usual, she was exhausted. The Spirit of the Lord impressed on her that, instead of resting, what she needed was to rejoice in the Lord. So, she did. She began to praise the Lord with her whole heart, mind and body. Do you know what happened? The tiredness left. And she was energized with the presence of God!

The next time the devil tries to stifle your effectiveness, to drain you of the strength and wealth and victory that are yours in Jesus, turn him back with those powerful weapons. Lift your hands, your voice and your whole heart to God. Give Him praise and thanksgiving!

Find out how the power of worship is directly related to healing in this teaching with Kenneth Copeland.

You ought to be shouting your way to work and shouting your way back home! If there’s anything the devil can’t stand, it’s praise. If you’ve taken territory from the devil and he’s coming against you to get it back, this is not the time to sit down and whine about how things aren’t working out. It’s not the time to decide that God has taken His hand off your life.

It IS time to get into the Word and get yourself re-anchored in God’s promises. It’s time to keep those promises constantly before your eyes and in your heart. It’s time to pray the prayer of faith and take your stand on the basis of His provision. It is time to continue to do the things you know to do.

When Satan starts shaking your mountain, don’t retreat and run for cover. Speak to the mountain with the authority you have in the Name of Jesus Christ. Then, when you’re done with that, start to praise and shout the victory!

Find 25 Ways to Live a Thankful Life here.

3. Praise and Thanksgiving Bring God on the SceneBut You are holy, O You Who dwell in [the holy place where] the praises of Israel [are offered].–Psalm 22:3 (AMPC)

Do you ever feel like you really need God to show up? You’ve been fighting the good fight, but boy, are you getting tired! That’s OK—but giving up is not. God never loses a battle. And when you do things His way, you won’t either.

So, what should you do? Start praising. Praise when you don’t feel like it and keep praising because praise and thanksgiving bring God on the scene. He inhabits the praises of His people!

You can praise your way to healing, praise your way to a financial breakthrough, praise your way out of an unwarranted assault on your character. When there is trouble—praise and thanksgiving bring victory!

You can see an example of that in 2 Chronicles 20 where a multitude of forces was marching against Israel, leaving the army of Israel so outnumbered, they literally didn’t know what to do. So, they fasted and prayed until they received a word from God. “Be not afraid or dismayed at this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (verse 15, Amplified Bible, Classic Edition).

Do you know what they did in response to that word? They put together a praise choir! That’s right. They appointed singers and praisers, and sent them out in front of the army! And when that choir began to sing, the Word tells us that “the Lord set ambushments against the men…who had come against Judah, and they were [self-] slaughtered” (verse 22).

When it was all over, not one Israelite had fallen—and not one of their enemies had escaped. What’s more, when they came to take the spoil, they found so many cattle, goods, garments and other precious things, it took them three whole days to haul it all home.

Now, that’s victory! And it all began with praise. Are you looking for that kind of victory today? Then stand up and shout, “Glory!” After all, you’re in the same situation those Israelites were. You have an army marching against you, but Jesus has already defeated it. He won that battle for you on Resurrection morning.

That is the kind of power you can have right now in your life. If you are not familiar with praising God, or it makes you feel uncomfortable, ask God to show you how. You can start by reading the Psalms aloud. They speak of the great and mighty works of God. They praise Him for His goodness, power and mercy. God is faithful to perfect your praises!

Praise is not something you do when things are rosy. God is always worthy of your praise. The Bible says to offer the sacrifice of praise—that means when it feels like a tough thing to give. More importantly, praise and thanksgiving are more than a pleasant song or a few uplifting words about God. They do something. They release the very presence of God Himself. And when the presence of God comes on the scene, your enemies are turned back. Sickness and disease can’t stay on your body. Poverty can’t stay in your house.

So, when you pray, “enter into his gates WITH THANKSGIVING, and into his courts WITH PRAISE: be thankful unto him, and bless his name” (Psalm 100:4, KJV). Praise and thanksgiving are integral parts of prayer. They are you and God working together—your prayer and His power. You can pray amiss, but you can’t praise amiss.

Praise God. Praise Him in the morning. Praise Him at noon. Praise Him at night. If you’ve never praised God in your life, then get started right now. Praise Him for freedom. Praise Him for healing and Calvary. Praise Him for the Name of Jesus.

You’ll even find that when you have a need, if you go to God and simply praise Him, you’ll get your answers while you’re thanking Him! That’s why Philippians 4:6 tells us to mix thanksgiving in with our prayers. There are so many reasons to praise the Lord!

Now that you know how to unleash the power of praise and thanksgiving, you can take these truths and put them in remembrance as you pray and engage in spiritual warfare. Never underestimate the importance of praise. It’s one of the most powerful spiritual weapons you have!

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rebekahanncurtis · 8 years ago

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Read Chasing the Glory of God on Rebekah Ann Curtis

Read Chasing the Glory of God on http://rebekahanncurtis.com/chasing-the-glory-of-god/

Chasing the Glory of God

This post is intended for Christians. If you are not born again, this post will appear as nonsense to you.

Have you ever had a glorious worship experience? Exodus defines when the physical presence of the Holy Spirit descended on the tabernacle and filled it completely after it was built. (Exodus 40:34) The upper room at Pentecost also describes the Glory of God descending upon the apostles and people gathered, waiting for the infilling of the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:1-4) Where you could literally feel the tangible presence of God on your skin, where you could feel God in the room as people worshiped Him. In that moment, that hour, the days of that conference, worship concert, retreat, etc, were so blessed, so phenomenal, that you found yourself wishing that every day could be like that?

I have.

Maybe you have too.

When that time was over, the presence lifted and the grind and the day to day crept in. The memories of fellowship and worship linger, and you find yourself without that energy, that spark, and you feel like grass withering without water.

This is where we are at a choice, to either accept that perhaps the conference, the concert, the crazy morning of worship in Church that went a few hours long because it was ‘anointed,’ was just a special blessing, or we begin to crave and desire what is dubbed the ‘Glory of God,’ and we begin to chase the glory.

The “Chase” can take on many different forms. For some, it’s spending a great deal of time and money going from conference to conference, following around certain preachers or musicians that are anointed, just to experience the Glory of God. For some, they move to places like Bethel, or Jerusalem, or start attending a large church where there’s a lot of flashing lights, some expressive preaching, and people appear to be under the influence of God. For others, they follow traveling evangelists, going from tent meeting to tent meeting in hopes that the Spirit of God will fall on them. They’ll sit in services where the worship is over an hour, and the preaching is over an hour, all hoping that they will experience the physical presence of God. Some will attend retreat after retreat after retreat, hoping for an encounter with tingles, the willies, and awesome power.

I went through a time in my life where I was swept up in the “Chase”.

I was determined to live in a constant haze of God’s Glory. I was unable to afford going to several conferences, move across the country to attend a bible college, or visit exotic places. I was able to attend a few retreats in college that set up the foundation for what I did do. Since I couldn’t afford running around, or get the time off of work to attend multiple conferences, I set aside hours for bible study, hours of personal worship, and hours of prayer. I made it a job to get the physical presence of God to dwell in my apartment. I also attended church every time the doors were open, arrived early, stayed late, sacrificed all of my personal time to serving at the church. Choir rehearsals, cleaning crew, Wednesday night services, 8am to 1pm every single Sunday morning, children’s church, if they needed help, I offered whether I was a good fit for it or not.

I started my personal time with an hour of worship. I had about ten worship cds from Hillsongs, Ron Kenoly, Carman, Keith Green, Passion, among others. I rotated through them until I had an hour or more of personal worship done. I then prayed for at least an hour, whatever came to mind, I prayed for it. I laid myself before the Lord and said that anything He wanted me to pray for I did. I prayed for people I knew, I prayed for people I didn’t know, I prayed for countries, for the church I was attending, anything and everything that came through my mind. I also spent a lot of time requesting that God fill the apartment with His presence. Then I would spend time reading the Bible. I read the entire Bible. I had read so much, the entire New testament so many times, that I began reading the Bible straight through. Beginning to end. I read the NIV, the KJV, the RSV, the Message, etc. I found a Strong’s concordance at the used book store and began using that extensively. I read books by Brother Lawrence, Stephen J Foster, Kenneth Hagin, Watchman Nee, CS Lewis, etc. I listened to tapes by K Copeland and a few other preachers, but most of my time was actually spent in reading and studying the Bible.

I argued theology with my brothers and sisters in Christ. I challenged them to pursue the Glory of God. I wanted them to taste the Lord and see how good He is. I also struggled greatly in my flesh. I had deep rooted sins that I would fight with constantly. I was insecure, broken, and a complete mess. I was saved, but I had been given some incorrect teaching.

See, I was taught that being saved meant that I could overcome all these things that plagued me. If I received the blessing of being in the Glory of God, that I was good enough of a Christian, that I had overcome and was worthy of the physical presence of the Glory of God. So I ran after that with all my being, because that’s what I thought I was supposed to do, and I got wore out.

I became exhausted.

I was running to be filled with the Glory of God, chasing that thing.

Maybe you are in that spot right now, getting ready to run, or running after the Glory of God.

Stop.

I’m pleading with you, please stop chasing the ‘Glory.’

I ran so much and so hard, that I fell hard. I was empty and did not realize it. I was broken and not allowing God to heal me. I was hurting and denying it, because to admit that I was hurting was to admit that I wasn’t a good Christian, and the church I was attending at the time, if you weren’t putting on a face of being an ‘overcomer’ and being in the ‘glory’ you were backsliding and unfit for service. I needed the ‘glory,’ and we would spend hours at church prayer time, or in the prayer group praying for the purpose of revival, the purpose of experiencing the ‘glory.’

I’m pleading with you again, stop this madness, STOP THE CHASE!

If you are saved, (John 3:16, Romans 10:9, 2 Corinthinas 5:17), you already have the Glory of God inside you. You have that precious gift of salvation. You are literally walking around with the Glory inside of you. You are born again, you have that shiny goodness inside. You can converse with God at any given point in time and He will talk with you, you have relationship with the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ. (Hebrews 1:3)

You have the Holy Spirit in you, if you are saved. (1 Corinthians 3:16, 6:19, 2 Corinthians 6:16, Ezekiel 36:27, 2 Timothy 1:14, Ephesians 5:18, Romans 8:9, 11, 15, Galatians 4:6, 5:22, 1 John 2:27)

To find the ‘Glory’ turn within. God resides within you if have accepted Him as your Lord and savior.

That glorious gift, the peace, the joy, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, all of it is there. All you need to do to find it, is turn to God within you. (Hebrews 13:5)

You don’t need to exhaust your resources looking for God, you already found Him. All you are doing is looking for an external thing, you are looking to satisfy your flesh masqueraded as spirituality.

Had someone said to me, “Rebekah, you don’t need to exert the external so much to find God and to experience Him. He’s already within you, you can find that peace and comfort within the Holy Spirit that resides within you,” when I was younger or handed me a book that exemplified it such as this one:

I don’t think I would have become so exhausted.

I know I wouldn’t have struggled so much in my flesh. Because once I began to turn completely to Christ for everything and not relying on my strength, my power to get so much done, things became simple. Mind you, not easier in the sense that life is easy, because it is hard. As a Christian, life gets worse, but the comforter, the Holy Spirit makes it so much simpler to deal with.

I don’t need to struggle with pride so much, because in the end, God gets all the glory. It’s not me that gets it, so I don’t have to worry about being perfect or appearing to be perfect, because it’s not about me, it’s about God. I just need to focus on loving Him and the people around me.

I don’t need to struggle with sins, because if they come up in my flesh, I turn inwards to God, and my focus on Him releases me from the struggle. For it’s not by my works or how good I’ve been that I can come to God, it’s by the grace and mercy and the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

I don’t need to overcome, Jesus has already done that for me, I just need to turn within to Him, to rely on Him to get through or how to get through whatever it is I am going through.

If things do(yes, I meant to type do, not don’t) go as I think they should, or if plans should fall apart, I turn inwards to Christ and release it to Him, because it’s not my will, but His be done. If what I think should happen doesn’t, I release it and thank God for the experience, and trust that whatever happens is for His good and His glory, and since it’s not about me, I don’t have to worry about how I will look, it’s all on God.

If I turn inwards and experience the Glory, then I thank God for that experience and that He allowed me to witness a physical manifestation of His goodness, if I do not experience the Glory, I thank Him for teaching me patience, for I know that He will never leave me or forsake me.

I stopped the ‘chase,’ because I had no need to chase God. God is within me. His glory, His power, His presence is manifested in my faith in the belief of salvation through Jesus on the cross. Everything else pales in comparison. The hair standing on end on my arms is nothing. There is nothing that even comes close to the faith I have and the power of the resurrection. I am a new creature in Christ, that is all the Glory I need.

I hope you stop chasing and find Him within.

–

I still read my Bible from beginning to end. I still have morning devotions. I do spend time worshiping God, probably less than I should, but it’s without struggle to seek the Glory. For I know the Glory of God, the gift of His Son resides within me. I have that assurance. I don’t argue as much with other Christians, I find myself praying that God will reveal Himself through the scriptures, that the Holy Spirit will either appoint me to say something or keep my mouth shut and just pray that they are swayed according to His purpose. I don’t need to convince people that the scriptures are true, that’s between them and God. I just need to follow two commandments, to love the Lord with all my heart soul and strength and then to love my neighbor as myself. If I have trouble loving my neighbor, I turn within and find God’s love for them, because His love resides within me, and He loves them. That’s it. Everything else is up to Jesus.

–

This does not mean I am not releasing any music in the future, on contrary, I have been busy writing many worship songs that I hope will enhance your relationship with God.

When I release music, it’s out of my love for Christ that I do so!

#Bethel #charismatic christianity #chasing god #Christian #Finding the Holy Spirit #Fire fall down #how to be born again #pentecost #Spirit of God fall down #the glory of god #the holy spirit #why are christians flakey

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nolimitsongrace · 5 years ago

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Prerequisite for Promotion #5: Integrity

Outreach

Elite CX Team

Do You Qualify? The 5 Prerequisites for PromotionOctober 10, 2019

Feeling like you’ll never move to the next level in life? Find out if you’re meeting the prerequisites for the promotion you’ve been dreaming of.

READING TIME: 8 MIN

Are you living the same day over and over again?

Maybe it seems like you wake up and carry on pretty much the same way every day, without any exciting changes or life-altering increase. Yet, you have stirrings, dreams and visions for what you want in this life. And you keep waiting for your breakthrough—your tipping point.

Here’s the deal…

You are the tipping point.

If you’re feeling stuck, it’s because you were made for continual promotion and advancement in this life. This year should not look the same as every other year. Increase in your job, finances, ministry or family should regularly be occurring. But you have to own your part in seeing God’s supernatural promotion.

It’s time to skip the middleman and start getting promoted quicker, easier and beyond what the world says is possible. Instead of waiting around for something to change, trying to make our own way, or convincing the world to promote us, we need to make a way for God to move.

As Gloria Copeland says, “You must be worthy of being promoted. You have to give God something to work with.” You must qualify.

Your promotion is within reach. And it’s in your hands. It all starts with working to live by these five prerequisites for promotion.

Prerequisite No. 1: Have a Servant’s Heart“Truly I am your servant, Lord.” –Psalm 116:16 (NIV)

When you’re focused on promotion, you’re focused on yourself, right? It can be tough to shift the focus off your own dreams and desires and over onto others, but that’s exactly what you need to do to qualify for a BIG promotion from God.

Gloria Copeland says, “Promotion begins on the inside. Having a servant’s heart is vital to your promotion.”

Joseph went from the pit to the palace by serving his master, his prison master and his fellow prisoners, and more importantly, his God. He could’ve spent time thinking about how he had been given a dream by God, what a hard worker he was, and how he deserved promotion, but he didn’t. He had a servant’s heart, and that’s why he enjoyed one of the greatest promotions we see in the Bible.

David is another model example of how to receive life-changing promotion. He began at the bottom—a lowly shepherd boy. No one had high thoughts of him or big plans to advance him in any way. In fact, in the world’s eyes, he was nothing special.

He had seven brothers who were all seemingly better looking, smarter and more qualified. God chose to promote David, in part, because he had a servant’s heart. He served his father and King Saul faithfully, in spite of the mistreatment and continual attacks on his life. More importantly, he served God.

His servant’s heart opened the door—and kept it open—for a life-changing promotion from shepherd boy to king.

What can we learn from Joseph and David’s servant’s hearts?

They remained faithful and honorable in the lowest of positions. Even when God told them their true destinies, they didn’t resent not arriving there instantly.

They were not impatient about being promoted. They kept their focus on serving others and honoring God.

They didn’t give up or become weary in well-doing.

If you are not where you want to be today, or maybe even far from it, do not despise where you are. It’s in the dry and hard places that your promotion is secured. Keep moving in the will of God, and the will of God will promote you.

Prerequisite No. 2: Humility“Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.” –James 4:10 (NKJV)

Having a servant’s heart will require humility, but walking in humility goes far beyond that. If you want to be promoted in your job, finances, ministry, family or any other area—all pride has to go.

You may be thinking, I don’t have a problem with pride. Keith Moore has this to say to you: “If you don’t think you have trouble with pride, you’re confused. You have flesh, don’t you? Then you have pride to deal with.” Pride is something every single person has to combat. But make no mistake, you must combat it.

Watch Gloria Copeland and George Pearsons talk more about humility as a prerequisite for promotion.

Pride isn’t just an unkind attitude—it’s a dream killer. It will rob you of everything you’re believing for and halt your miracles (James 4:6). That’s why the enemy wants to tempt you into it (it’s what caused his fall, after all). He knows he can devour you when he can get you to be like him—proud, defiant and rebellious.

You qualify for promotion when you work on having a humble spirit. In fact, the Bible tells us to be “clothed with humility” (1 Peter 5:5, KJV). This isn’t a one-time deal, either. It’s a daily effort.

What does humility look like? Humility thinks of others first.

Humility is content behind the scenes.

Humility doesn’t push its way to the front.

Humility willingly submits.

Humility graciously receives correction.

Humility makes adjustments.

Humility doesn’t ruin an apology with an excuse.

Humility expects nothing and appreciates everything.

Humility accepts responsibility and doesn’t shift blame.

Humility is easy to live with, work with and be with.

To get to this place, as Keith Moore says, “Pride has to die!” If you think you can do this on your own, that’s pride, too. You need correction. If you can begin to see correction as a gift, you’ll be on the expressway to humility.

That means allowing God—and even people—to correct you. Even if someone doesn’t handle it as delicately as they could, you need to learn to receive correction from people. When you don’t, that’s your flesh rising up and telling you to feed your pride.

If you want to see promotion in your life, ask God to help you become someone who lives and walks with humility. Gloria Copeland says, “Pride sets you up for a fall. Humility will set you up for honor.”

Prerequisite No. 3: Diligence“Diligent hands bring wealth.” –Proverbs 10:4 (NIV)

Just like humility, diligence is the door to promotion. You can’t qualify without it. Are you diligent?

A diligent person is…

Conscientious in his work or duties

Industrious, hardworking, meticulous, thorough

Someone who does more than what’s expected

Dependable, punctual

Constant, stable, focused

Does this describe you? Are you meeting the prerequisite for promotion by being diligent?

The Bible tells us a bit more about who diligent people are and what they receive:

Diligent people are hard workers. Proverbs 10:4 (TLV) says “Lazy hands make a man poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.” Prosperity and promotion come to the hard worker.

Diligent people thoughtfully plan. They aren’t hasty in their decisions, but think ahead and plan well. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty” (NIV).

Diligent people serve great leaders. Proverbs 22:29 says, “Do you know a hard-working man? He shall be successful and stand before kings!” (TLB). Diligent people are not overlooked for long, and they end up in the highest places.

Diligent people are resourceful and care for what they have. This means they are good stewards! Proverbs 12:27 says a “diligent man makes good use of everything he finds” (TLB).Pastor Ricker Renner used to drive by the homes of associate pastors to inspect their garages. He felt he could see their hearts by the way they cared for their homes.

Diligent people become great leaders. Proverbs 12:24 says when you work hard, you will become a leader. That’s promotion! Joseph and David are proof of this truth.

If you want to be promoted in life, work hard. Be diligent as a Christian, a spouse, a parent, a friend, a financial steward, a minister and an employee. Get qualified for promotion!

Prerequisite No. 4: Faithfulness“A faithful man who can find?” –Proverbs 20:6 (KJV)

Every prerequisite we’ve discussed so far is nonnegotiable. And so is faithfulness. It seems to be a lost art, these days, doesn’t it? Perhaps that’s why we don’t see people advancing when they should.

Remember David? He was the most faithful among all of King Saul’s servants. That’s what God is looking for.

Faithful people are located and promoted by God. That’s what happens when you live out the prerequisites for promotion. Promotion will chase after and overtake you!

Let’s look at the Bible characteristics of a faithful person.

Faithful people can be trusted by those they serve.

Faithful people keep a confidence—they don’t reveal secrets or go around talking about matters that should be kept quiet (Proverbs 11:13)

Faithful people are loyal. They don’t cheat, steal or abuse their positions.

Faithful people are truthful and honest. They don’t lie or bend the truth (Proverbs 14:5).

Faithful people are reliable and dependable. They show up on time, and they do what they say they will do (Proverbs 25:13).

Faithfulness is a prerequisite for promotion. “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10, KJV). When you are faithful where God has placed you, He will know He can trust you with even more. “A faithful man will abound with blessings” (Proverbs 28:20, ESV).

Prerequisite No. 5: Integrity“The just man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” –Proverbs 20:7 (MEV)

Many people don’t realize the connection between integrity and promotion. Galatians 6:7 tells us we reap what we sow, so if you connect the dots, it’s easy to see: Sowing integrity will produce a harvest of promotion.

Honesty is valued highly in our society—it is a nonnegotiable with God. There is a greater demand for integrity from Christians because of who we represent. Second Corinthians 8:21 says, “We are careful to be honorable before the Lord, but we also want everyone else to see that we are honorable.”

Your life is a letter anyone can read by looking at you (2 Corinthians 3:2). That’s what many believers don’t understand. We are being watched—read like a book. The world hears every word we speak and sees every action we take. Our lives are a testimony to the unsaved about who our God is, and we have a responsibility to represent Him accurately.

How important is integrity? Find out in a special story of integrity that impacted Kenneth Copeland’s personal life HERE.

To qualify for promotion, you must live your life with integrity—down to the tiniest detail.

How does the Bible define integrity? Psalm 15:1-5 breaks it down for us:

Live a blameless life. Do what is right, even when it looks like it could be to your disadvantage.

Keep your word, no matter what. Show up when you say you’re going to show up. Do what you say you’ll do. Give what you say you’ll give.

Do the right thing.

Refuse to gossip or speak poorly about others.

Lend without charging interest.

Refuse to be bribed.

Return things you borrowed (like rental cars) in better shape than when you got them.

Return excess change accidentally given to you.

Go back to pay the right amount when you were undercharged.

Return the shopping cart to the proper place.

Give your employer the full amount of work agreed upon.

Learn more about How to Live the Psalm 15 Life HERE.

Sadly, it is a rare thing to see people with integrity anymore. That’s why so many people are stuck in the same place for so long. Those who will prosper will be those with the most integrity—those who are dependable. God has His part, and we have ours. Our part is walking in integrity.

If you’ve been waiting for promotion, developing your character and meeting these five prerequisites is key. Remember, it is God’s will for you to be promoted! As long as you are in line with His Word, you don’t have to fight, beg or beat the system. He will get you to the place you need to be.

Gloria Copeland and George Pearsons share about integrity as a prerequisite for promotion.

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nolimitsongrace · 5 years ago

Video

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Prerequisite for Promotion #2: Humility