praying effectively: Remain Steadfast (Heb.13:9-15, 22)

(Hebrews 13:9-15)  Do not be carried away by varied and strange teachings; for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, through which those who were so occupied were not benefited. 10 We have an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat. 11 For the bodies of those animals whose blood is brought into the holy place by the high priest as an offering for sin, are burned outside the camp. 12 Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13 So, let us go out to Him outside the camp, bearing His reproach. 14 For here we do not have a lasting city, but we are seeking the city which is to come.

15 Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.

(Hebrews 13:22)  But I urge you, brethren, bear with this word of exhortation, for I have written to you briefly. 

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 do not get carried away by contradictory and strange teachings (13:9)

- that we listen to and act on God's words to us (13:22)

- that we seek out Jesus and His sanctification through His death and resurrection (13:12-13)

- that we are strengthened by grace, and not by religious acts (13:9)

- that we continually lift up sacrificial praises to God, and give thanks to His name  (13:15)

Today's prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your words of life to us.  Give us wisdom so that we can fully understand the words that You have given to us.  Make Your will clearly known to us.

Thank You that You did it all - for us - on the cross - - - so that we do not have to do anything in order to earn salvation - or keep our salvation.  Help us to find strength and confidence in Your amazing grace.  

Guide us to keep seeking after You.  And motivate us and give us a desire to consistently go to a place of worship - to publicly, sacrificially worship You.  We thank You for all things, in Your holy and precious name, amen.