Friday, February 21, 2020

praying effectively: Live for God’s Will (1Peter 4:1-6)


(1 Peter 4:1-6)  Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God. For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties and abominable idolatries. In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, and they malign you; but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God.

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 our purpose is to live in God's will, and be ready to suffer for doing so (4:1-2)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for suffering and dying on the cross for all our sins and for rising again to make salvation possible to those who turn to You.  Give us confidence, knowing that You are fair and just and good.  Equip us and strengthen us so that we are able to go through tests and trials for Your name's sake, all to Your glory, amen.

No comments: