Wednesday, January 22, 2020

praying effectively: Draw Near with Confidence (Heb.4:12-16)



(Hebrews 4:12-16)  For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.

14 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. 16 Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

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 hold fast to our confession of salvation (4:14)
- that we grow closer to God and His grace with confidence (4:16)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for giving us Your word!!!  Thank You for knowing all things - including the struggles which we experience.  Thank You for Your understanding.  Thank You for Your mercy and grace.  Thank You that we may come close to You in confidence.  Thank You for Your strength so we may be confident to put our full trust in You to help us through whatever circumstance we find ourselves in.  Guide us to continue focusing on You and Your word.  Amen.

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