Prayer

24
Aug
2024
Prayer of Jabez: Asking Big, Believing Bigger

Prayer of Jabez: Asking Big, Believing Bigger

Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in a rut, unable to move forward in life? Maybe you’ve been afraid to ask God for more, thinking you don’t deserve it or that it’s selfish.

Well, let me introduce you to a guy named Jabez from the Bible. His story might just change your perspective on prayer and what God wants for your life.

Who Was Jabez?

Jabez shows up in a pretty unexpected place in the Bible – right in the middle of a long list of family trees in 1 Chronicles. But his brief mention is quite notable.

The Bible tells us that Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mom named him Jabez because she gave birth to him in pain. Talk about a rough start!

Power-Packed Prayer

Here’s what 1 Chronicles 4:10 (NIV) says:

Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request.

1 Chronicles 4:10

Let’s break this down and see what we can learn from Jabez’s prayer.

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Blessings

Jabez starts by asking God straight-up for a blessing. He’s not beating around the bush or being super humble about it. Sometimes we feel guilty for asking God to bless us, but Jabez shows us it’s okay to be direct.

2. Dream Big

“Enlarge my territory” – Jabez wasn’t content with the status quo. He wanted to grow, to expand, to have a bigger impact. What’s your “territory”? Your skills, your relationships, your influence? Don’t be afraid to ask God to help you grow in these areas.

3. Seek God’s Presence

Jabez asks for God’s hand to be with him. He knows that true success comes from having God by his side. It’s not just about getting stuff from God; it’s about experiencing His presence in our lives.

4. Ask for Protection

Lastly, Jabez asks God to keep him from harm and pain. He’s not pretending life is all sunshine and rainbows. He knows there are challenges out there, and he’s asking for God’s protection.

The Result: God Said Yes!

Here’s the kicker – God granted Jabez’s request! This short verse packs a powerful punch. It shows us that God listens to our prayers and that He’s not offended when we ask for big things.

Applying Jabez’s Prayer to Our Lives

So, how can we take this ancient prayer and make it relevant to our lives today?

  1. Be specific in your prayers: Don’t just ask for general blessings. What exactly do you need God to do in your life?
  2. Dream bigger: What would it look like if God really expanded your “territory”? In your job, your family, your community?
  3. Invite God into every part of your life: Ask for His presence in the good times and the tough times.
  4. Acknowledge your need for protection: We all face challenges. It’s okay to ask God to shield us from harm.
  5. Believe that God wants to bless you: Jabez’s story reminds us that God is a generous Father who delights in blessing His children.

Conclusion

Jabez’s prayer might be short, but it’s packed with faith, courage, and a big vision. It challenges us to approach God with boldness, to dream big, and to trust that He wants to bless us and use us in mighty ways.

So, why not give it a try? Take a page from Jabez’s book and start praying bigger prayers. You might just be surprised at how God responds when you ask Him to expand your territory and keep His hand on your life.

Remember, it’s not about becoming rich or famous. It’s about growing in your faith, expanding your influence for God’s kingdom, and experiencing more of His presence in your life. That’s a prayer worth praying every single day.

Pray Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy today! – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock
09
Jun
2024
Don’t Quench the Holy Spirit: Staying Open to God’s Guidance

Don’t Quench the Holy Spirit: Staying Open to God’s Guidance

Have you ever had that feeling – a nudge in a certain direction, a flicker of intuition that seems to know the right path? That, my friend, could very well be the Holy Spirit whispering guidance in your ear.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:19, the Bible tells us “Do not quench the Spirit.” But what exactly does that mean? How can we quench the Holy Spirit, and how can we stay open to His leading?

The Holy Spirit: Our Internal GPS

Think of the Holy Spirit as God’s built-in GPS for our lives. He guides us, corrects us, and empowers us to live according to God’s will.

He speaks through that feeling in your gut, that quiet voice urging you towards kindness or away from temptation.

But just like any GPS, the Holy Spirit’s guidance can be muffled if we’re not paying attention. Here’s how we might, unintentionally, quench the Spirit’s flame:

  • Distractions: We live in a noisy world. Constant busyness, social media, and entertainment can drown out the subtle promptings of the Holy Spirit.
  • Disobedience: When we knowingly choose to go against what we believe is the right thing to do, we push away the Spirit’s guidance.
  • Unbelief: Doubting God’s presence or guidance creates a barrier between us and the Holy Spirit.

Staying Open to the Holy Spirit

So how do we stay tuned in to the Holy Spirit’s frequency? Here are a few tips:

  • Quiet Time: Make space for daily prayer and reflection. This allows the Spirit’s voice to rise above the daily noise.
  • Bible Study: Reading God’s word equips you to recognize the Spirit’s leading, as He often guides us based on biblical principles.
  • Living a Holy Life: The more we strive to live according to God’s will, the easier it becomes to recognize and follow the Spirit’s promptings.
  • Discernment: Not every impulse is the Holy Spirit. Pray for wisdom to discern the Spirit’s voice from your own thoughts or desires.

By staying open and receptive, the Holy Spirit can become an incredible guide in your life.

He will lead you to make God-honoring choices, convict you of sin, and empower you to live a life that glorifies Him.

So, listen closely, and don’t quench the flame of the Holy Spirit within you!

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
21
May
2024
Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Finding Peace in God’s Presence

Life can be a roller-coaster, filled with ups and downs that leave us feeling stressed and anxious. In those moments, it’s easy to forget where true peace resides. But Psalm 27:4 offers a beautiful reminder:

“One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and seek him in his temple.”

Psalm 27:4

What Does “Dwelling in the House of the Lord” Mean?

The “house of the Lord” doesn’t necessarily refer to a physical building, although it can include spending time in a church or place of worship; or even a quiet place outside.

Here, it signifies a deeper connection with God. It’s about cultivating a constant awareness of His presence in our lives.

How Can We Dwell in God’s Presence?

Here are some ways to cultivate that peace-filled dwelling place:

  • Prayer: Regularly talking to God, expressing your gratitude, worries, and desires, strengthens your relationship with Him.
  • Bible Study: Immersing yourself in God’s word, allows you to understand His character and His ways, bringing comfort and guidance.
  • Meditation: Taking time to quiet your mind and focus on God’s presence can be incredibly calming.
  • Worship: Singing, listening to praise music, or simply reflecting on God’s greatness fosters a sense of awe and reverence.

Gazing on God’s Beauty

The verse also mentions “gazing on the beauty of the Lord.”

This isn’t about a physical appearance, but rather appreciating God’s character. Reflect on His love, faithfulness, power, and goodness.

Let these qualities fill your heart with awe and peace.

Seeking Him Continuously

“Seeking him in his temple” refers to a continual pursuit of God. It’s about incorporating Him into every aspect of your life, not just during designated prayer times. Remember; you are the temple of God!

Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Peace in the Midst of Chaos

By dwelling in God’s presence, gazing on His beauty, and seeking Him constantly, you create a haven of peace within yourself, even when the world around you feels chaotic.

Make this verse a guiding light in your life, and allow God’s peace to wash over you.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Joy, Trust
28
Mar
2024
Power of Prayerful Hands

Power of Prayerful Hands

“I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.” (1 Timothy 2:8, NIV)

Importance of Prayer

Prayer is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life. It is the means by which we communicate with our heavenly Father, express our gratitude, make our requests known, and seek his guidance.

In his wisdom, God has chosen to involve us in his work through prayer, inviting us to participate in the unfolding of his plan.

Posture of Prayer

The apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of lifting up “holy hands” when we pray. This is not a literal instruction but a metaphor for the attitude and disposition of our hearts.

We are to approach God with reverence, humility, and a desire for reconciliation with him and with others.

Anger and Disputing

Paul warns against praying with anger or disputing in our hearts.

Anger and conflict cloud our judgment and distort our perspective, making it difficult to discern God’s will.

When we harbor resentment or bitterness towards others, it can hinder our ability to pray effectively.

Power of Unity

Instead, Paul encourages us to pray in a spirit of unity and harmony.

When we come together as a community of believers, lifting our voices in prayer, there is a power and effectiveness that transcends our individual efforts.

As we lay aside our differences and focus on our common purpose, God is pleased to work through our collective prayers.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Prayer
12
Feb
2024
Aligning Our Hearts with God

Aligning Our Hearts with God

“When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” James 4:3

Ask with Pure Motives

This verse gives us keen insight into why some prayers go unanswered – wrong motives. We ask for things to satisfy our own selfish desires, not to align with God’s kingdom purposes. We pursue temporal pleasures rather than eternal significance.

But the Lord searches the heart, discerning why we ask for what we do. He refuses to fund endeavors fueled by fleshly appetites rather than spiritual ones.

Examine your recent prayers. Do they center on comfort, entertainment, or success? Shift your focus to intercession for others, petitions for spiritual growth, requests for open doors to share Christ. Pray with pure motives – to know Jesus more, to make Him known.

As your heart realigns with His, you’ll find prayers powerfully answered!

Desires Versus Needs

Our wants and wish lists often reflect surface-level desires rather than core needs. We ask for vacations, purchases, or experiences that may provide fleeting enjoyment but not deeply satisfy.

Meanwhile, we neglect to request provisions for growth in grace, passion for the lost, or boldness to follow Jesus wherever He leads. But when we pray for courage to share our faith or opportunity to serve, God delights to grant these needs.

As David sought after God’s own heart, he discovered lasting joy. As Paul prayed for spiritual power, churches were planted. Ask the Lord to exchange your desires for His – to crave steady communion with Christ above all else. Watch needs eclipse wants.

Kingdom Focus Over Personal Fulfillment

It’s tempting to view prayer as a path to personal fulfillment, comfort, and success. But its truer purpose is aligning our hearts with God’s kingdom goals. We don’t pray primarily to enhance our lives but to exalt His name, establish His reign, and enrich others.

As Jesus taught in the Lord’s Prayer, we petition first for His name to be hallowed and kingdom to come. When our motives elevate His glory over our gratification, prayer grows powerful and effective.

We gain holy boldness to ask great things of God, knowing He desires to display His might through humble, trusting hearts. He invites us to partner with Him through kingdom-focused prayer

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration