What do you think of when you hear the word "prayer"? Do you think of the old men at church who drag out a five minute long prayer, filled with lovely words that kill the time you could be spending at home, eating and watching a football game?
What do you think of when you see the word "prayer"? Do you think of the way your heart races when people ask who wants to pray, and you know you should, but you worry what people will think of you?
This is what the world tempts you to think. This is what Satan wants you to think. However, the Bible tells us differently. As for the long fancy words that confuse our little minds, G-d says " "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men" (Matthew 6:5). Now, this is not to say that you cannot pray in public. While this may seem contradictory, when you read the verse again it uses the word "hypocrites." If one is sincere in his words, he will be speaking to G-d, not to man.
As for fear, there are numerous instances in the Bible where G-d commands us, "Do not be afraid." According to Romans 12:2, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." No one else's opinion matters when we pray. We are talking to G-d!
Now, if prayer isn't meant for our own personal torture and agony, what is it? Prayer. According to Dictionary.com, prayer is a "devout petition to G-d" or a "spiritual communion with G-d...as in supplication, thanksgiving, adoration, or confession." The only thing I disagree with here is the "or" where an "and" should be. It is a spiritually intimate conversation accompanied by reverence, humility, thanksgiving, adoration, and confession. It is a relationship. A relationship in which G-d is aching to hear you talk with Him. He created you. He desires you. He loves you, and He wants so badly for you to love Him back. In fact, He commands "And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests..." (Eph. 6:18).
Now you may be thinking "HA! Me? There must be a catch here. Why would G-d...G-d! want to talk to me? I'm not worthy." Well, if you were thinking that, you were right about the last part. You are unworthy. As am I, and every other being on this planet we call earth. "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of G-d" (Romans 3:23). However, because of our sinful nature, G-d sent His one and only Son to this earth He created to die, so that we, that includes you, may accept His awesome gift of salvation, and be forgiven (John 3:16).
In spite of our awful quirks that drive people crazy, and our sinful actions that cause embarrassment, and our need for a Savior, G-d still loves us, and He wants us to talk to Him; He wants us to pray.
Why does He love you? Because He is G-d. He is perfect. And He created you. You are special. "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb" (Psalm 139:13).
You might say, "Okay, but...that whole bowing my head and closing my eyes thing...that's not really my style." Well, that's fine. However, I do believe that it is a sign of reverence. There's nothing supernatural or magical about it. But, as a speaker I heard once put it, it's just a way to be like "Wow...you're G-d!" It is an act of awe and worship. In certain cases, bowing your head and closing your eyes will be a nice way to show G-d some respect.
Now you might be thinking "Woah woah woah woah...hold up a second. What happened to my 'close, personal relationship with G-d you were talking about?" It's still there. You don't have to sit on your knees at the altar and cry until your eyes hurt every time you speak with G-d. You can lay in bed and stare at your wall, talking aloud. You can take a long walk with your earbuds in, listening to music. You can even drive and watch the road while you talk to G-d, if you want to! The main idea of bowing your head and closing your eyes is reverence, but G-d wants you to talk to Him as a friend, a brother, and a mentor, as well.
Prayer is about every aspect of one's relationship with G-d--the reverence of Who G-d is, the awesomeness of His friendship, and the comfort of J-sus' brotherhood.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Why I Think Bible Studying Is Important: An Essay
(First of all, I would like to point out that this was something I wrote about two hours before I had to send it. Second of all, because this had to be a half-page long and it is a rough draft, basically, I may elaborate at some point in time).
Why do I think that studying the Bible is important? While half a page will not cover it all, I will attempt to summarize.
According to Psalms 1: 1-3 (NIV), “Blessed is the man…[whose] delight is in the law of the Lord. On His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” Not in my words, but in God’s, the man (or woman) who studies God’s Word will be blessed. He will be rooted in the truth. He will create good fruit. He will prosper.
For one to defeat Satan through God, he must not wither. For one not to wither, he must “meditate” on God’s word often. In reading His Word, one will discover that they must “put on the full armor of God, so that [they] can take [their] stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rules, again the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms,” (Eph. 6: 10-12, NIV).
Through studying God’s Word, young people can learn that no matter how young they are, they can make a difference, just as Daniel, John, and many others who God favored made a difference in their teenage years. Although young people are constantly being judged and harshly criticized by others daily, they can learn through studying God’s Word that they can exist as anti-conformity. “Don’t let any one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity,” (1 Tim. 4: 12, NIV).
Another lesson one can learn through the Bible—challenging, yet worth the effort—is to make their faith public. “Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift….” (1Tim. 4:13-14, NIV). In accepting and practicing this challenge, one may allow God to speak through them, becoming a part of the process of another’s salvation. “Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see our progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers,” (1 Tim. 4:15-16, NIV).
Through studying God’s Word, one can be blessed, rooted in God’s Word, create good fruit, prosper, stand against Satan’ schemes, set a Christian example, and influence others greatly.
Why do I think that studying the Bible is important? While half a page will not cover it all, I will attempt to summarize.
According to Psalms 1: 1-3 (NIV), “Blessed is the man…[whose] delight is in the law of the Lord. On His law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers.” Not in my words, but in God’s, the man (or woman) who studies God’s Word will be blessed. He will be rooted in the truth. He will create good fruit. He will prosper.
For one to defeat Satan through God, he must not wither. For one not to wither, he must “meditate” on God’s word often. In reading His Word, one will discover that they must “put on the full armor of God, so that [they] can take [their] stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rules, again the authorities, against the powers of this dark world, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms,” (Eph. 6: 10-12, NIV).
Through studying God’s Word, young people can learn that no matter how young they are, they can make a difference, just as Daniel, John, and many others who God favored made a difference in their teenage years. Although young people are constantly being judged and harshly criticized by others daily, they can learn through studying God’s Word that they can exist as anti-conformity. “Don’t let any one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity,” (1 Tim. 4: 12, NIV).
Another lesson one can learn through the Bible—challenging, yet worth the effort—is to make their faith public. “Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Do not neglect your gift….” (1Tim. 4:13-14, NIV). In accepting and practicing this challenge, one may allow God to speak through them, becoming a part of the process of another’s salvation. “Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see our progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers,” (1 Tim. 4:15-16, NIV).
Through studying God’s Word, one can be blessed, rooted in God’s Word, create good fruit, prosper, stand against Satan’ schemes, set a Christian example, and influence others greatly.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Short Story: Faith
As I was walking the other afternoon, earbuds in place, listening to my worship music, enjoying the warm weather with G-d, I started thinking for the billionth time about Peter when he walked on water (Matthew 14). Whenever I ponder this topic, I dwell on it for awhile, trying to understand why Peter took his eyes off of J-sus; Why he didn't have more faith. I mean, he WAS one of J-sus' disciples! He walked with Him, talked with Him, trusted Him daily. Why did he stop believing all of a sudden? Why did he take his eyes off of J-sus?
As usual, my conclusion to discovering the answer came through prayer.
I said aloud, earbuds still in place, "G-d, why did Peter have such little faith? He knew You! Why did he start to sink?" Then another question came to mind--the same question I always wonder about eventually. I ask G-d, "Do I have little faith? I mean, I trust You with my life, my all, my friends, my family, me! Do I have that little of faith...?"
I decided to walk on water. Metaphorically speaking, at least.
As I was walking on the sidewalk of the condiminium I live in, mailboxes every few feet, curbs, random holes in the cement, I suddenly had one of my "brilliant" ideas. At first, the idea seemed ridiculous, but I am ridiculous, I remembered. So, after asking G-d's approval, I closed my eyes, still walking, earbuds still in place, and trusted that G-d wouldn't let me fall. I was pretty comfortable for about thirty seconds, and then all of a sudden my heart started beating faster, I started walking un-evenly, and I was afraid of running into a mailbox. So I opened my eyes and stopped walking.
Now, if that's not little faith, I don't know what is.
I looked around, realized I was perfectly fine in the middle of the sidewalk, far from the mailboxes, holes in the cement, rocks scattered about randomly, even.
Immediately I started apologizing to G-d for not trusting Him.
I, like Peter, took my eyes off of J-sus and watched the waves crash around each other.
We were both safe. We were both being ridiculous. And we both had little faith.
I decided to share my story of ridiculousness for any of you who question your faith. Now, while I can't answer for you directly, I would like to point out that we're all going to be tried, most likely more than once. We're going to be asked to "walk on water." And suddenly, most of us are going to begin sinking.
However, if you keep your eyes on J-sus, He will guide you.
As usual, my conclusion to discovering the answer came through prayer.
I said aloud, earbuds still in place, "G-d, why did Peter have such little faith? He knew You! Why did he start to sink?" Then another question came to mind--the same question I always wonder about eventually. I ask G-d, "Do I have little faith? I mean, I trust You with my life, my all, my friends, my family, me! Do I have that little of faith...?"
I decided to walk on water. Metaphorically speaking, at least.
As I was walking on the sidewalk of the condiminium I live in, mailboxes every few feet, curbs, random holes in the cement, I suddenly had one of my "brilliant" ideas. At first, the idea seemed ridiculous, but I am ridiculous, I remembered. So, after asking G-d's approval, I closed my eyes, still walking, earbuds still in place, and trusted that G-d wouldn't let me fall. I was pretty comfortable for about thirty seconds, and then all of a sudden my heart started beating faster, I started walking un-evenly, and I was afraid of running into a mailbox. So I opened my eyes and stopped walking.
Now, if that's not little faith, I don't know what is.
I looked around, realized I was perfectly fine in the middle of the sidewalk, far from the mailboxes, holes in the cement, rocks scattered about randomly, even.
Immediately I started apologizing to G-d for not trusting Him.
I, like Peter, took my eyes off of J-sus and watched the waves crash around each other.
We were both safe. We were both being ridiculous. And we both had little faith.
I decided to share my story of ridiculousness for any of you who question your faith. Now, while I can't answer for you directly, I would like to point out that we're all going to be tried, most likely more than once. We're going to be asked to "walk on water." And suddenly, most of us are going to begin sinking.
However, if you keep your eyes on J-sus, He will guide you.
Hewlp!...pwease:(
Now that I have my blog about me, let's move on to more important things (;)). I vote J-sus. And the Bible. And G-d. What about them? No clue. This is the blog I'm going to really need some feedback for. Basically, if you have any suggestions, ideas, etc., leave a comment and I'll see what I can do:) Thanks!
Lilly!!
Lilly!!
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Hmm...fine. Lol.
So, I really want to post something meaningful about my J-sus. However, I'm having much difficulty choosing a topic that is not repeated by Christians constantly, nor do I wish to steal Nate's topics. Lol. So...I guess I'm going to sound conceited for the while and talk about myself;)
Well, first of all, I'm a time-waster. Despite the fact that I'm a full-time high school student (haha), I go to church on Sunday mornings (although Saturday is the Sabbath) and Wednesday nights, dance class four hours a week (even though I couldn't stay still if my life depended on it), and drama class one to two hours a week, I generally waste the rest of my hours waiting for someone to log in AIM or call me. Lol.
I love to read--currently I'm attempting to read the Circle trilogy and I'm being my ridiculously impatient self as I wait for Breaking Dawn to come out =O
People assume that I listen to music constantly (apparently I'm that "type," lol), while really I only listen to music about...85% of my day. Haha. I'd list all of my favorite musical artists, but that would take a century, considering I love almost everything, so if for whatever reason you're curious enough, you can check out my tiny list of musicians on "My Complete Profile."
I also love to write. Currently I'm writing a reality fiction novel titled Grace. I'd summarize, but generally people are weirded out by all of the drama included, so I think I'll pass on that.
I don't wear make-up, I'm not interested in a boyfriend, or marriage for that matter, I don't text, I hate fingernail polish, my favorite colors are black, red, and white, if I'm surrounded by people whom I love, but I have my Ipod and book with me, you can bet I'm going to be ignoring you for awhile. Basically, I'm the social outcast, and I'm okay with that.
Much to my dismay, my friends finally discovered one word to desribe me as a whole: tolerable. What is THAT supposed to mean?! Out of all the words in the world, I get "tolerable." *sighs* Oh, well. It kinda does fit. Lol.
The only plans I have for my future are to follow G-d wherever He leads me. So far, I see myself (in the future) in Kenya, Africa, teaching dirty-haired kids how to read, playing football (not coaching, I might add, lol) with dirty-headed teenagers, and sharing G-d's love with people. But, G-d loves to shake up my world, so I never know what's going to happen. But I'm okay with that. So long as he lets me in on the plans, eventually;)
I have four absolutely amazing friends that keep me in line, love me, and call me at twelve in the morning because they're insane (jk, guys;)).
Both of my parents have been married for 16 years now, which is amazing compared to the amount of divorced couples in the world. I also have a twelve year old imp for a sister who was recently saved. W00T!! Still evil as ever, but hopefully that will change:) Hehe.
WOW this is long--but, in my defense, you asked for it;) Hehe.
Otay well I have some Algebra to catch up on, so, ta ta 4 now! Mwuah!!
Lilly!!
Well, first of all, I'm a time-waster. Despite the fact that I'm a full-time high school student (haha), I go to church on Sunday mornings (although Saturday is the Sabbath) and Wednesday nights, dance class four hours a week (even though I couldn't stay still if my life depended on it), and drama class one to two hours a week, I generally waste the rest of my hours waiting for someone to log in AIM or call me. Lol.
I love to read--currently I'm attempting to read the Circle trilogy and I'm being my ridiculously impatient self as I wait for Breaking Dawn to come out =O
People assume that I listen to music constantly (apparently I'm that "type," lol), while really I only listen to music about...85% of my day. Haha. I'd list all of my favorite musical artists, but that would take a century, considering I love almost everything, so if for whatever reason you're curious enough, you can check out my tiny list of musicians on "My Complete Profile."
I also love to write. Currently I'm writing a reality fiction novel titled Grace. I'd summarize, but generally people are weirded out by all of the drama included, so I think I'll pass on that.
I don't wear make-up, I'm not interested in a boyfriend, or marriage for that matter, I don't text, I hate fingernail polish, my favorite colors are black, red, and white, if I'm surrounded by people whom I love, but I have my Ipod and book with me, you can bet I'm going to be ignoring you for awhile. Basically, I'm the social outcast, and I'm okay with that.
Much to my dismay, my friends finally discovered one word to desribe me as a whole: tolerable. What is THAT supposed to mean?! Out of all the words in the world, I get "tolerable." *sighs* Oh, well. It kinda does fit. Lol.
The only plans I have for my future are to follow G-d wherever He leads me. So far, I see myself (in the future) in Kenya, Africa, teaching dirty-haired kids how to read, playing football (not coaching, I might add, lol) with dirty-headed teenagers, and sharing G-d's love with people. But, G-d loves to shake up my world, so I never know what's going to happen. But I'm okay with that. So long as he lets me in on the plans, eventually;)
I have four absolutely amazing friends that keep me in line, love me, and call me at twelve in the morning because they're insane (jk, guys;)).
Both of my parents have been married for 16 years now, which is amazing compared to the amount of divorced couples in the world. I also have a twelve year old imp for a sister who was recently saved. W00T!! Still evil as ever, but hopefully that will change:) Hehe.
WOW this is long--but, in my defense, you asked for it;) Hehe.
Otay well I have some Algebra to catch up on, so, ta ta 4 now! Mwuah!!
Lilly!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
