Guard your steps as you go to the house of God and draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools; for they do not know they are doing evil. 2 Do not be hasty in word or impulsive in thought to bring up a matter in the presence of God. For God is in heaven and you are on the earth; therefore let your words be few. 3 For the dream comes through much effort and the voice of a fool through many words.
4 When you make a vow to God, do not be late in paying it; for He takes no delight in fools. Pay what you vow! 5 It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay. 6 Do not let your speech cause you to sin and do not say in the presence of the messenger of God that it was a mistake. Why should God be angry on account of your voice and destroy the work of your hands? 7 For in many dreams and in many words there is emptiness. Rather, fear God.
8 If you see oppression of the poor and denial of justice and righteousness in the province, do not be shocked at the sight; for one official watches over another official, and there are higher officials over them. 9 After all, a king who cultivates the field is an advantage to the land.
Reminder: "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will. When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!It is God's will:
- that we guard our steps, even when we go to a church, make sure that the church is not apostate, but that they are teaching correct doctrines and living them out (5:1)
- that, even in a church, we should not be hasty to point out an issue or try to change their format (5:2)
- that we should be careful how we talk, especially to a leader in the church (5:6)
- that we should respect our spiritual leaders (5:6)
- that we fear God (5:7)
- that if we make a vow to God, we should be quick to carry that out, for instance with tithing or giving extra financial gifts (5:4)
Today's prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, guard Your Church! Convict the hearts of those who are misrepresenting You to turn back to Your word, and to not pick and choose the parts that they like and disregard what they don't like.
Help us to know when we should stay in a church and pray for turnarounds, or when we should find another church. If it is just a matter of a few issues, keep us from running away or church hopping, but rather help us reconcile and learn how to work together in unity.
Thank You for providing a church to us which lives out Your love and Your word, with pastors who are not afraid to lovingly and wisely challenge and guide us. Protect our spiritual leaders and keep them steadfast. Continue to inspire them as to how to effectively shepherd the flock, with strong visions in keeping Your direction.
Keep the church's family members growing and maturing. Inspire us to love and serve one another. Help us all to realize that when we tithe - because You have given us everything - You will bless us and the church. Guide the church in using the funds effectively. May we be accountable to one another and to You. Amen.
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