Monday, October 7, 2019

praying effectively: Stay Alert (Rom.1617-27)



(Romans 16:17-20)  Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. 18 For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting. 19 For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil. 20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.

The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

(Romans 16:26-27)  Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, 26 but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith; 27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen.

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 keep our eyes on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contradicting God's will (16:17)
- that we are not deceived or confused, but we are able to wisely differentiate what is good and what is evil, even if it appears to be innocent (16:19)
- that we are obedient to God's will because we have faith in Jesus (16:26-27)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your wisdom and Your protection.  Guide Your Church in unity and love, to remain steadfast in Your will.  Keep us awake and vigilant to the people and the ideas which undermine Your work.  When various problematic situations present themselves, give us the wisdom to know how to manage these, in Your strength, courage, peace and grace.  Amen.

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