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Saturday, March 20, 2010
God's Answers Are Everywhere
Saturday, March 20, 2010 Print Article
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God's Answers Are Everywhere
Pastor Olu Brown
Romans 12:12 - Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Have you ever prayed for something and it seemed like God was on vacation and allowed your prayer to linger in Heaven's In-box too long? You felt like life gave up on you and God had forgotten about you. No matter how much you prayed, begged, or read the Bible, there seemed to be no response from God.
Not only is this a frustrating time but it is also a frightening time. Frustrating because you can't get a prayer through and frightening because you begin to wonder if God is really even there.
I can imagine Paul wrote Romans 12:12 to a group of people who were experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. He encouraged them to remain "Faithful in Prayer." Every once in a while we have to be reminded to continue to pray even when our prayers don't seem to be answered or when we think God has taken a vacation during our most critical time of need.
One of Paul's most consistent roles was to encourage the people. He had to reassure them of God's steadfast love and protection. I hope whenever we feel like God does not hear us or our prayers are being ignored, we remain faithful in prayer.
Often, I am reminded of how much God really cares and how many times God truly answers my prayers. Sometimes I have to slow down, live a little and look around to see God's answered prayers in my life and the world around me.
I know this may sound cheesy, but God's answers to our prayers are everywhere. Look around!
The lead pastor of Impact Church, located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia, Pastor Olu Brown has helped grow Impact into one of the fastest growing new church starts in America. For more information about Pastor Brown, log onto www.impactdcd.org or by following him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/olub.
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God's Answers Are Everywhere
Pastor Olu Brown
Romans 12:12 - Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Have you ever prayed for something and it seemed like God was on vacation and allowed your prayer to linger in Heaven's In-box too long? You felt like life gave up on you and God had forgotten about you. No matter how much you prayed, begged, or read the Bible, there seemed to be no response from God.
Not only is this a frustrating time but it is also a frightening time. Frustrating because you can't get a prayer through and frightening because you begin to wonder if God is really even there.
I can imagine Paul wrote Romans 12:12 to a group of people who were experiencing similar thoughts and feelings. He encouraged them to remain "Faithful in Prayer." Every once in a while we have to be reminded to continue to pray even when our prayers don't seem to be answered or when we think God has taken a vacation during our most critical time of need.
One of Paul's most consistent roles was to encourage the people. He had to reassure them of God's steadfast love and protection. I hope whenever we feel like God does not hear us or our prayers are being ignored, we remain faithful in prayer.
Often, I am reminded of how much God really cares and how many times God truly answers my prayers. Sometimes I have to slow down, live a little and look around to see God's answered prayers in my life and the world around me.
I know this may sound cheesy, but God's answers to our prayers are everywhere. Look around!
The lead pastor of Impact Church, located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia, Pastor Olu Brown has helped grow Impact into one of the fastest growing new church starts in America. For more information about Pastor Brown, log onto www.impactdcd.org or by following him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/olub.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Regional Recruitment Coordinators
Hi everyone:
Pass this on to friends/family members (in the ATL, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Philly, and San Francisco areas).
The Department of Labor has just posted announcements at www.usajobs.com for 3 Regional Recruitment Coordinators. These positions can be filled in any of the following 6 OASAM regional locations – Dallas, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, and/or San Francisco. The purpose of the Recruitment Coordinator position is to be proactive in identifying and utilizing a broad range of diverse recruitment sources to attract highly qualified applicants for DOL positions. Qualified applicants with or without Federal status are welcome to apply. Please share this information with anyone that you think would be interested and qualified.
Let non-government folks know that the base salary is advertised. The final salary offer will be adjusted based on locality. Salary ranges for GS-13 with locality for the regions are as follows:
Atlanta: $85,500 - 111,148
Boston: $89,449 - 116,282
Chicago: $89,664 - 116,562
Dallas: $86,489 - 112,434
Philadelphia: $87,292 - 113,478
San Francisco: $96,867 - 125,926
Link to all the jobs: http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/Search.aspx?tm=5&sort=rv%2c-dtex&cn=&rad_units=miles&brd=3876&pp=50&jbf574=DL*%2cDLAM&vw=b&paygrademin=13&paygrademax=13&re=134&FedEmp=N&FedPub=Y&caller=advanced.aspx
Pass this on to friends/family members (in the ATL, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Philly, and San Francisco areas).
The Department of Labor has just posted announcements at www.usajobs.com for 3 Regional Recruitment Coordinators. These positions can be filled in any of the following 6 OASAM regional locations – Dallas, Boston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, and/or San Francisco. The purpose of the Recruitment Coordinator position is to be proactive in identifying and utilizing a broad range of diverse recruitment sources to attract highly qualified applicants for DOL positions. Qualified applicants with or without Federal status are welcome to apply. Please share this information with anyone that you think would be interested and qualified.
Let non-government folks know that the base salary is advertised. The final salary offer will be adjusted based on locality. Salary ranges for GS-13 with locality for the regions are as follows:
Atlanta: $85,500 - 111,148
Boston: $89,449 - 116,282
Chicago: $89,664 - 116,562
Dallas: $86,489 - 112,434
Philadelphia: $87,292 - 113,478
San Francisco: $96,867 - 125,926
Link to all the jobs: http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/Search.aspx?tm=5&sort=rv%2c-dtex&cn=&rad_units=miles&brd=3876&pp=50&jbf574=DL*%2cDLAM&vw=b&paygrademin=13&paygrademax=13&re=134&FedEmp=N&FedPub=Y&caller=advanced.aspx
School Of Hard Knocks
Friday, March 19, 2010 Print Article
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School of Hard Knocks
Aqualyn Toi Jones
I have a list of pet peeves that seems to grow as I grow older. Number seven on that list is speaking to a customer service rep who cannot answer my question. It's kind of like an oxymoron. The whole point of asking a question is to receive a response. It's impolite to not answer. And when a request seems unheard, it's easy to feel ignored or insignificant.
When we go to God in prayer, we go expecting an answer. We desperately want to know that He hears us and that He cares. When we inquire about the deepest issues of our hearts, we need to know that there is an answer and that we will receive it.
Jesus promises that if you ask, you will receive. If you seek, you will find and if you knock, the door will be opened for you (Matthew 7:7). We have a promise that our prayers will be heard AND answered.
But what happens when the answers aren't so clear? What do you do when what you've been fervently praying for doesn't happen? This is what I call the "School of the Hard Knocks." Typically that phrase refers to the knowledge you gain from life's negative experiences. Here, it is the lessons we learn as we persistently ask, seek, and knock. It is the growth we experience as we wait for our prayers to be answered.
Waiting. There's another item on my list of pet peeves. Possibly, number one. But it goes hand-in-hand with prayer.
We live in an "instant" society. I can send a message in an instant. I can prepare a meal in an instant (thanks to the handy dandy microwave). I can download music in an instant. No wonder we're so accustomed to instant gratification. So accustomed, in fact, that we expect instant answers from God.
Let's be clear. He can answer in an instant. He can answer before you even ask the question. But often there will be a delay between the time you ask and the time you receive. This is the time when our faith is tested and strengthened.
Sometimes before prayer can be answered, we have to be changed. Perhaps when we are our changed the nature of our prayer request will also change.
God is working while we wait. Don't stop asking or seeking. Keep knocking.
Remember, patience is made perfect in the School of the Hard Knocks.
Toi Jones is a writer and an advocate for youth, underdogs, and all things (and people) that are broken and overlooked. Compassionate at her core, Toi is also an educator, a mentor, and a supporter of multiple initiatives for South Africa.
© Aqualyn Toi Jones all rights reserved.
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School of Hard Knocks
Aqualyn Toi Jones
I have a list of pet peeves that seems to grow as I grow older. Number seven on that list is speaking to a customer service rep who cannot answer my question. It's kind of like an oxymoron. The whole point of asking a question is to receive a response. It's impolite to not answer. And when a request seems unheard, it's easy to feel ignored or insignificant.
When we go to God in prayer, we go expecting an answer. We desperately want to know that He hears us and that He cares. When we inquire about the deepest issues of our hearts, we need to know that there is an answer and that we will receive it.
Jesus promises that if you ask, you will receive. If you seek, you will find and if you knock, the door will be opened for you (Matthew 7:7). We have a promise that our prayers will be heard AND answered.
But what happens when the answers aren't so clear? What do you do when what you've been fervently praying for doesn't happen? This is what I call the "School of the Hard Knocks." Typically that phrase refers to the knowledge you gain from life's negative experiences. Here, it is the lessons we learn as we persistently ask, seek, and knock. It is the growth we experience as we wait for our prayers to be answered.
Waiting. There's another item on my list of pet peeves. Possibly, number one. But it goes hand-in-hand with prayer.
We live in an "instant" society. I can send a message in an instant. I can prepare a meal in an instant (thanks to the handy dandy microwave). I can download music in an instant. No wonder we're so accustomed to instant gratification. So accustomed, in fact, that we expect instant answers from God.
Let's be clear. He can answer in an instant. He can answer before you even ask the question. But often there will be a delay between the time you ask and the time you receive. This is the time when our faith is tested and strengthened.
Sometimes before prayer can be answered, we have to be changed. Perhaps when we are our changed the nature of our prayer request will also change.
God is working while we wait. Don't stop asking or seeking. Keep knocking.
Remember, patience is made perfect in the School of the Hard Knocks.
Toi Jones is a writer and an advocate for youth, underdogs, and all things (and people) that are broken and overlooked. Compassionate at her core, Toi is also an educator, a mentor, and a supporter of multiple initiatives for South Africa.
© Aqualyn Toi Jones all rights reserved.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
An Answered Prayer
Thursday, March 18, 2010 Print Article
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An Answered Prayer
Bonnie St. John
And he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.' Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) In the church I attend, the pastor always stops at one point in the service to ask the congregation if we have praises or requests to share. It seems that every Sunday, there are people who ask us to join them in praying for a friend or family member struggling with some sort of physical ailment.
"Please pray for my Aunt Jenny who was in a car accident last week. Pray that she won't have to have her leg amputated."
"My friend at work, his son has cancer. Please pray for healing and courage."
"My wife has macular degeneration. Her eyesight is slowing fading. Pray that the doctors can stop the spread of the disease."
We all want these physical calamities to be healed so that our loved ones do not have to suffer the pain, the discomfort, and the long-term, day-to-day indignities of life with a disability. No one would wish a physical disability on anyone else. We pray that God could give our loved one an easier life.
My mother must have felt this way when the doctor told her, shortly after I was born, that my right leg would not grow normally.
"I recommend that you amputate the leg as soon as possible," he told her.
My mother prayed that there would be another solution besides disfiguring her baby--a baby who looked so fragile and so perfect. She actively searched for any alternatives. She fitted me with orthopedic braces and shoes. She consulted doctor after doctor. But most of all, she continued praying.
When I reached age five, she finally capitulated to the inevitable and agreed to let go of my emaciated limb.
Should she conclude that her prayers were not answered? Should all of us who pray every Sunday for healing, remission, and miracle cures be disappointed with God when things don't go the way we think they should?
If only my mother could have known how things would turn out! How could she have any idea that her one-legged daughter from San Diego would become the first African-American to win Olympic or Paralympic medals in ski racing, of all sports!?!
Yes, you heard that right: a black, one-legged girl who grew up in San Diego with no snow turned into a world class ski racer winning two bronze medals and the silver for overall performance in the 1984 Paralympics in Innsbruck, Austria - and made African-American history in the process. My "disability" has opened so many doors and created so many opportunities for me that I couldn't possibly describe them all here. As just one example, I have been invited to be a part of the official Presidential delegation to Vancouver for the Opening Ceremonies of the 2010 Paralympics! I will once again have the honor of representing my country at the Olympics, 26 years after my performance as an athlete.
So many of us enjoyed watching the perfection of human physical performance in Winter Olympic competition in Canada, but fewer people are aware that the Paralympics are beginning, in the same Vancouver ice rinks, ski slopes and bobsled runs, on March 12th. While the athletes are far less perfect--missing arms and legs, paralyzed and blind--their performances are perhaps more astoundingly poignant and beautiful for that very reason.
At disabled sports competitions, I have always felt as though I have stumbled upon a place where Jesus has recently passed through. Looking around you, it seems that miraculous healing has occurred. Blind racers ski at 50 miles per hour around the red and blue gates, paralyzed men in low-profile sleds aggressively play hockey, and women with no arms speed by on Nordic skis. These extraordinary people have not just escaped their fate of disability, but stand as incredible examples of our ability, with faith, to transcend disability itself.
"My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
If you want to see the hand of God at work, go online and watch the Paralympic events if you can't get them through your local TV provider. You will be amazed. And, you will be reminded of what God can do in your life, if you will give up your "brokenness" to Him.
Now, I work as a full time inspirational writer, speaker, and trainer...boasting of my disabilities and how God has shown his strength in my weakness. Indeed, "I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Every day, know that your prayers will be answered - even if that answer is sometimes not the answer you would have preferred. Perhaps you or a loved one may have to endure more than you think you can. But if you will put your suffering on the altar and let Him take control, conquering your challenges can be not only proof of His strength, but a shining light to others who stand in need.
A professional speaker and Olympic medalist, Bonnie St. John has appeared on the Today Show, CNN, the 700 Club, and Life Today. The author of How Strong Women Pray and Live Your Joy, Bonnie St. John is committed to reaching out to the world with a message of triumph over circumstance. For more information about Bonnie, log onto www.bonniestjohn.com or read her blog at www.bonniestjohn.com/blog.aspx
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An Answered Prayer
Bonnie St. John
And he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.' Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV) In the church I attend, the pastor always stops at one point in the service to ask the congregation if we have praises or requests to share. It seems that every Sunday, there are people who ask us to join them in praying for a friend or family member struggling with some sort of physical ailment.
"Please pray for my Aunt Jenny who was in a car accident last week. Pray that she won't have to have her leg amputated."
"My friend at work, his son has cancer. Please pray for healing and courage."
"My wife has macular degeneration. Her eyesight is slowing fading. Pray that the doctors can stop the spread of the disease."
We all want these physical calamities to be healed so that our loved ones do not have to suffer the pain, the discomfort, and the long-term, day-to-day indignities of life with a disability. No one would wish a physical disability on anyone else. We pray that God could give our loved one an easier life.
My mother must have felt this way when the doctor told her, shortly after I was born, that my right leg would not grow normally.
"I recommend that you amputate the leg as soon as possible," he told her.
My mother prayed that there would be another solution besides disfiguring her baby--a baby who looked so fragile and so perfect. She actively searched for any alternatives. She fitted me with orthopedic braces and shoes. She consulted doctor after doctor. But most of all, she continued praying.
When I reached age five, she finally capitulated to the inevitable and agreed to let go of my emaciated limb.
Should she conclude that her prayers were not answered? Should all of us who pray every Sunday for healing, remission, and miracle cures be disappointed with God when things don't go the way we think they should?
If only my mother could have known how things would turn out! How could she have any idea that her one-legged daughter from San Diego would become the first African-American to win Olympic or Paralympic medals in ski racing, of all sports!?!
Yes, you heard that right: a black, one-legged girl who grew up in San Diego with no snow turned into a world class ski racer winning two bronze medals and the silver for overall performance in the 1984 Paralympics in Innsbruck, Austria - and made African-American history in the process. My "disability" has opened so many doors and created so many opportunities for me that I couldn't possibly describe them all here. As just one example, I have been invited to be a part of the official Presidential delegation to Vancouver for the Opening Ceremonies of the 2010 Paralympics! I will once again have the honor of representing my country at the Olympics, 26 years after my performance as an athlete.
So many of us enjoyed watching the perfection of human physical performance in Winter Olympic competition in Canada, but fewer people are aware that the Paralympics are beginning, in the same Vancouver ice rinks, ski slopes and bobsled runs, on March 12th. While the athletes are far less perfect--missing arms and legs, paralyzed and blind--their performances are perhaps more astoundingly poignant and beautiful for that very reason.
At disabled sports competitions, I have always felt as though I have stumbled upon a place where Jesus has recently passed through. Looking around you, it seems that miraculous healing has occurred. Blind racers ski at 50 miles per hour around the red and blue gates, paralyzed men in low-profile sleds aggressively play hockey, and women with no arms speed by on Nordic skis. These extraordinary people have not just escaped their fate of disability, but stand as incredible examples of our ability, with faith, to transcend disability itself.
"My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
If you want to see the hand of God at work, go online and watch the Paralympic events if you can't get them through your local TV provider. You will be amazed. And, you will be reminded of what God can do in your life, if you will give up your "brokenness" to Him.
Now, I work as a full time inspirational writer, speaker, and trainer...boasting of my disabilities and how God has shown his strength in my weakness. Indeed, "I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Every day, know that your prayers will be answered - even if that answer is sometimes not the answer you would have preferred. Perhaps you or a loved one may have to endure more than you think you can. But if you will put your suffering on the altar and let Him take control, conquering your challenges can be not only proof of His strength, but a shining light to others who stand in need.
A professional speaker and Olympic medalist, Bonnie St. John has appeared on the Today Show, CNN, the 700 Club, and Life Today. The author of How Strong Women Pray and Live Your Joy, Bonnie St. John is committed to reaching out to the world with a message of triumph over circumstance. For more information about Bonnie, log onto www.bonniestjohn.com or read her blog at www.bonniestjohn.com/blog.aspx
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Nevertheless Moments
Wednesday, March 17, 2010 Print Article
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Nevertheless Moments
Elder Tony Wilson
Nevertheless.
An adverb which indicates the opportunity to change, yet maintaining the same direction or course of action.
This one word serves as a major turning point throughout the Word of God. This one word has stood center stage throughout the course of human history. Allow me to explain.
Recently I had the honor of hearing my pastor deliver a eulogy for a person who exhibited tremendous courage in the face of cancer. As we learned more about her, it became very evident that she used her illness as an opportunity to minister to others. When others called or visited her to share words of encouragement and prayer, she in turn, took that same moment to encourage them.
It was clear that she faced and conquered what I call a nevertheless moment.
In Mark 14:36, we find Jesus at one of the most crushing moments in His life. Temptation was pulling on Him, causing His flesh to war against His spirit. The agony that Jesus went through at that moment in the Garden of Gethsemane caused Him to cry out to His Father for help.
"And He said, 'Abba Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me..." - Mark 14:36v.
Have you ever wondered what would have happened if God (the Father) would have answered that prayer? What if Jesus yielded to His own desire that night? Satan would have certainly won. The virgin birth, the baptism, the miracles, the teachings, everything would have been for nothing!
But praise be unto God for this one small word: nevertheless.
"...Nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will." - Mark 14:36v.
Precisely at this moment in time, Jesus stood at the crossroads of eternity and held humanity in His hands. Jesus through prayer completely yielded His will, His desires, His flesh, and His plans to the Will of His Father.
If Jesus turned His back at that moment, we would not be reading this devotional. We would not have a moral compass to guide our thoughts, nor an ethical path to lead us to correct decisions.
Today we all face at times nevertheless moments. The decisions we make and the prayers we pray can change the very trajectory of our lives or that of another person.
Let's be sure that our prayers do not enable us to take the easy way out. Let's look and take the example of our Savior. Today, let us walk in His footsteps.
Along with his wife of 19 years, Jennifer, Elder Tony Wilson is the founders and facilitators of Marriage Retreat 365, an organization that encourages and models for couples various methods of maintaining intimacy while addressing the everyday responsibilities of being a family. A father of four, Elder Wilson is currently on staff at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, located in Lithonia, Georgia.
© Elder Tony Wilson all rights reserved.
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Nevertheless Moments
Elder Tony Wilson
Nevertheless.
An adverb which indicates the opportunity to change, yet maintaining the same direction or course of action.
This one word serves as a major turning point throughout the Word of God. This one word has stood center stage throughout the course of human history. Allow me to explain.
Recently I had the honor of hearing my pastor deliver a eulogy for a person who exhibited tremendous courage in the face of cancer. As we learned more about her, it became very evident that she used her illness as an opportunity to minister to others. When others called or visited her to share words of encouragement and prayer, she in turn, took that same moment to encourage them.
It was clear that she faced and conquered what I call a nevertheless moment.
In Mark 14:36, we find Jesus at one of the most crushing moments in His life. Temptation was pulling on Him, causing His flesh to war against His spirit. The agony that Jesus went through at that moment in the Garden of Gethsemane caused Him to cry out to His Father for help.
"And He said, 'Abba Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me..." - Mark 14:36v.
Have you ever wondered what would have happened if God (the Father) would have answered that prayer? What if Jesus yielded to His own desire that night? Satan would have certainly won. The virgin birth, the baptism, the miracles, the teachings, everything would have been for nothing!
But praise be unto God for this one small word: nevertheless.
"...Nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will." - Mark 14:36v.
Precisely at this moment in time, Jesus stood at the crossroads of eternity and held humanity in His hands. Jesus through prayer completely yielded His will, His desires, His flesh, and His plans to the Will of His Father.
If Jesus turned His back at that moment, we would not be reading this devotional. We would not have a moral compass to guide our thoughts, nor an ethical path to lead us to correct decisions.
Today we all face at times nevertheless moments. The decisions we make and the prayers we pray can change the very trajectory of our lives or that of another person.
Let's be sure that our prayers do not enable us to take the easy way out. Let's look and take the example of our Savior. Today, let us walk in His footsteps.
Along with his wife of 19 years, Jennifer, Elder Tony Wilson is the founders and facilitators of Marriage Retreat 365, an organization that encourages and models for couples various methods of maintaining intimacy while addressing the everyday responsibilities of being a family. A father of four, Elder Wilson is currently on staff at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, located in Lithonia, Georgia.
© Elder Tony Wilson all rights reserved.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
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Tuesday, March 16, 2010 Print Article
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Activate The Power Of Prayer
Pastor Paula White
Do you need to tap into an intimate line of communication with God? The Bible instructs us to cast all our cares to God in prayer, making our requests known to Him with an attitude of thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6).
We are to request what we need and then trust Him to meet our needs. As we do that, God acts - imparting to us His peace, and providing all that is beneficial for our eternal good.
The power of prayer is immeasurable - and the more we reach out to God in intimate communication through prayer, the more we experience His transforming peace.
The peace of God that comes through prayer is one of the most valuable assets and gifts He gives us. It is a peace that transforms how we think. It enables us to answer calamity with calm reason, to see order in chaos, and to know the best direction to pursue.
By reaching out to God in prayer, we combat fears with faith. We experience God's presence with us -- an ally that is more powerful than any foe! His Holy Spirit girds us up, enabling us to function to the maximum of our ability and beyond.
I encourage people to experience the power of prayer and the calming effect it brings throughout the day. When are good times to pray? ALL THE TIME!
But at the very least, I recommend praying at these times:
Each morning when you awake. Morning prayer allows you to begin the day offering yourself to the Lord. As you greet the Lord in morning prayer, you are acknowledging His sovereignty over your life -- believing in Him to guide, protect, and inspire you throughout the day.
During the course of the day. Whether you are a homemaker, work outside the home, or go to school, there will be a myriad of circumstances in which you will find yourself needing the peace of God that prayer brings. There is no better way to handle challenging moments than to call on God to guide your actions, thoughts and words.
Upon returning home for the evening. I encourage you to take a moment at some point to thank God for protecting yourself and your family. Ask Him to bring peace to your home surroundings for the evening, and to assist you and other family members in releasing any negative "remains of the day."
Before going to sleep. While everyone sleeps, not everyone feels the benefits of a good night's sleep. That is because often, even when the body is resting, the soul is not...it is a bundle of anxieties and insecurities. Praying before going to sleep, and asking God to empty your mind of anxiety and worry, promotes genuine rest for both the body and the soul.
Remember -- any time is the "right time" to activate the power of prayer - your intimate line of communication to God!
A life coach, author, and highly sought after motivational speaker, Pastor Paula White is the host of her own television program -- Paula Today, which reaches an audience of 2.3 billion people worldwide, spearheading a number of global humanitarian efforts. Her mission in life is to Transform Lives, Heal Hearts and Win Souls. For more information about Paula, log onto www.paulawhite.org.
Leave a Comment
Activate The Power Of Prayer
Pastor Paula White
Do you need to tap into an intimate line of communication with God? The Bible instructs us to cast all our cares to God in prayer, making our requests known to Him with an attitude of thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6).
We are to request what we need and then trust Him to meet our needs. As we do that, God acts - imparting to us His peace, and providing all that is beneficial for our eternal good.
The power of prayer is immeasurable - and the more we reach out to God in intimate communication through prayer, the more we experience His transforming peace.
The peace of God that comes through prayer is one of the most valuable assets and gifts He gives us. It is a peace that transforms how we think. It enables us to answer calamity with calm reason, to see order in chaos, and to know the best direction to pursue.
By reaching out to God in prayer, we combat fears with faith. We experience God's presence with us -- an ally that is more powerful than any foe! His Holy Spirit girds us up, enabling us to function to the maximum of our ability and beyond.
I encourage people to experience the power of prayer and the calming effect it brings throughout the day. When are good times to pray? ALL THE TIME!
But at the very least, I recommend praying at these times:
Each morning when you awake. Morning prayer allows you to begin the day offering yourself to the Lord. As you greet the Lord in morning prayer, you are acknowledging His sovereignty over your life -- believing in Him to guide, protect, and inspire you throughout the day.
During the course of the day. Whether you are a homemaker, work outside the home, or go to school, there will be a myriad of circumstances in which you will find yourself needing the peace of God that prayer brings. There is no better way to handle challenging moments than to call on God to guide your actions, thoughts and words.
Upon returning home for the evening. I encourage you to take a moment at some point to thank God for protecting yourself and your family. Ask Him to bring peace to your home surroundings for the evening, and to assist you and other family members in releasing any negative "remains of the day."
Before going to sleep. While everyone sleeps, not everyone feels the benefits of a good night's sleep. That is because often, even when the body is resting, the soul is not...it is a bundle of anxieties and insecurities. Praying before going to sleep, and asking God to empty your mind of anxiety and worry, promotes genuine rest for both the body and the soul.
Remember -- any time is the "right time" to activate the power of prayer - your intimate line of communication to God!
A life coach, author, and highly sought after motivational speaker, Pastor Paula White is the host of her own television program -- Paula Today, which reaches an audience of 2.3 billion people worldwide, spearheading a number of global humanitarian efforts. Her mission in life is to Transform Lives, Heal Hearts and Win Souls. For more information about Paula, log onto www.paulawhite.org.
Monday, March 15, 2010
New York State Civil Service Exams
Just in case you know of someone who is interested.
The New York State Department of Civil Service is alerting you that the following examination announcements have been added to our website recently. They may be applied for on-line. You will find application
and fee payment instructions on the examination announcements. Open-Competitive Examination Announcements: 25-100 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-100.cfm 25-101 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 225-102 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-101.cfm 25-232 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-232.cfm 25-233 STORES CLERK 2 (MOTOR EQUIPMENT) www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-233.cfm 25-257 HORTICULTURAL TECHNICIAN 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-257.cfm 25-315 ASSISTANT IN EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT SERVICES25-316 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT SERVICES www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-315.cfm 25-317 ASSISTANT IN EDUCATIONAL TESTING25-318 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATIONAL TESTING www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-317.cfm 25-319 ASSISTANT IN TEACHER EDUCATION25-320 ASSOCIATE IN TEACHER EDUCATION www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-319.cfm 25-323 ASSISTANT IN EDUCATION RESEARCH25-324 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION RESEARCH www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-323.cfm 25-329 VETERANS EDUCATION PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVE 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-329.cfm 25-330 VETERANS EDUCATION PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVE 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-330.cfm 25-331 HOMELESS SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-331.cfm 25-345 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM SPECIALIST www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-345.cfm 25-346 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 225-347 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 325-348 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 4 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-346.cfm 25-349 SUPERVISOR OF VETERANS EDUCATION www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-349.cfm 25-325 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES
SPECIALIST 125-350 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES SPECIALIST 1 (Subprogram ChildDaycare) 25-351 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES SPECIALIST 1 (Subprogram ChildWelfare) 25-352 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES SPECIALIST 1 (Minority
Group) www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-325.cfm 25-355 TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-355.cfm Promotion Examination Announcements: 36-362 ASSOCIATE EXAMINER OF MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-362.cfm 36-331 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT SERVICES www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-331.cfm 36-332 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATIONAL TESTING www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-332.cfm 35-998 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/35-998.cfm 36-243 COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER MANAGER 136-248 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE PROGRAM MANAGER 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-243.cfm 36-244 COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER MANAGER 236-251 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE PROGRAM MANAGER 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-244.cfm 36-205 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 136-206 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-205.cfm 36-336 HOMELESS SERVICES REPRESENTATAIVE 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-336.cfm 36-337 HOMELESS SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-337.cfm 36-240 HORTICULTURAL TECHNICIAN 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-240.cfm 36-209 MOTOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 136-210 MOTOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 236-211 MOTOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-209.cfm 36-207 MOTOR EQUIPMENT STORESKEEPER www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-207.cfm 36-304 MOTOR EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-304.cfm 36-357 MOTOR VEHICLE PROGRAM MANAGER 236-358 MOTOR VEHICLE PROGRAM MANAGER 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-357.cfm 36-201 PURCHASING AGENT www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-201.cfm 00-187 PURCHASING AGENT TRAINEE www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/00-187.cfm 36-320 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 236-321 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 336-322 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 4 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-320.cfm 36-318 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM SPECIALIST www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-318.cfm 36-202 SENIOR PURCHASING AGENT www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-202.cfm 36-360 SUPERVISOR OF VETERANS EDUCATION www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-360.cfm 36-208 STORES CLERK 2 (MOTOR EQUIPMENT) www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-208.cfm 36-338 TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR 136-339 TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-338.cfm ***********************************************************************
"Take a minute to just breathe and do absolutely nothing else." ~Nia
www.niaorms.com
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about learning how to dance in the rain.
The New York State Department of Civil Service is alerting you that the following examination announcements have been added to our website recently. They may be applied for on-line. You will find application
and fee payment instructions on the examination announcements. Open-Competitive Examination Announcements: 25-100 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-100.cfm 25-101 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 225-102 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-101.cfm 25-232 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-232.cfm 25-233 STORES CLERK 2 (MOTOR EQUIPMENT) www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-233.cfm 25-257 HORTICULTURAL TECHNICIAN 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-257.cfm 25-315 ASSISTANT IN EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT SERVICES25-316 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT SERVICES www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-315.cfm 25-317 ASSISTANT IN EDUCATIONAL TESTING25-318 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATIONAL TESTING www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-317.cfm 25-319 ASSISTANT IN TEACHER EDUCATION25-320 ASSOCIATE IN TEACHER EDUCATION www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-319.cfm 25-323 ASSISTANT IN EDUCATION RESEARCH25-324 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION RESEARCH www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-323.cfm 25-329 VETERANS EDUCATION PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVE 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-329.cfm 25-330 VETERANS EDUCATION PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVE 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-330.cfm 25-331 HOMELESS SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-331.cfm 25-345 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM SPECIALIST www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-345.cfm 25-346 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 225-347 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 325-348 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 4 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-346.cfm 25-349 SUPERVISOR OF VETERANS EDUCATION www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-349.cfm 25-325 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES
SPECIALIST 125-350 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES SPECIALIST 1 (Subprogram ChildDaycare) 25-351 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES SPECIALIST 1 (Subprogram ChildWelfare) 25-352 CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES SPECIALIST 1 (Minority
Group) www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-325.cfm 25-355 TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/oc/25-355.cfm Promotion Examination Announcements: 36-362 ASSOCIATE EXAMINER OF MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-362.cfm 36-331 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT SERVICES www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-331.cfm 36-332 ASSOCIATE IN EDUCATIONAL TESTING www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-332.cfm 35-998 COMMUNITY CORRECTION REPRESENTATIVE 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/35-998.cfm 36-243 COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER MANAGER 136-248 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE PROGRAM MANAGER 1 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-243.cfm 36-244 COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER MANAGER 236-251 UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE PROGRAM MANAGER 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-244.cfm 36-205 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 136-206 HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-205.cfm 36-336 HOMELESS SERVICES REPRESENTATAIVE 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-336.cfm 36-337 HOMELESS SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-337.cfm 36-240 HORTICULTURAL TECHNICIAN 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-240.cfm 36-209 MOTOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 136-210 MOTOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 236-211 MOTOR EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-209.cfm 36-207 MOTOR EQUIPMENT STORESKEEPER www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-207.cfm 36-304 MOTOR EQUIPMENT SPECIALIST www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-304.cfm 36-357 MOTOR VEHICLE PROGRAM MANAGER 236-358 MOTOR VEHICLE PROGRAM MANAGER 3 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-357.cfm 36-201 PURCHASING AGENT www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-201.cfm 00-187 PURCHASING AGENT TRAINEE www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/00-187.cfm 36-320 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 236-321 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 336-322 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM MANAGER 4 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-320.cfm 36-318 RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM SPECIALIST www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-318.cfm 36-202 SENIOR PURCHASING AGENT www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-202.cfm 36-360 SUPERVISOR OF VETERANS EDUCATION www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-360.cfm 36-208 STORES CLERK 2 (MOTOR EQUIPMENT) www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-208.cfm 36-338 TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR 136-339 TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR 2 www.cs.state.ny.us/examannouncements/announcements/prom/36-338.cfm ***********************************************************************
"Take a minute to just breathe and do absolutely nothing else." ~Nia
www.niaorms.com
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about learning how to dance in the rain.
Your Answer Is At The Door
Monday, March 15, 2010 Print Article
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Your Answer is at the Door
Rev. James C. Matthews
"So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him' ... 'Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists'. ... 'When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!" "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. (Acts 12:5,7,12-16, NIV)
One morning during my prayer and devotion time, I ran across a scripture that stopped me in my tracks. There was something in the text that God wanted me to see. So I backed up and reread the text again. Then it hit me! These believers, who were praying earnestly, weren't expecting their prayers to be answered. I said to myself: "How can this be? How can we prayer "earnestly" for something and not believe our answer when it arrives?" God revealed to me that this happens all the time. He sends answers to our prayers and they are returned to Him stamped "Unclaimed."
Why is this? How can we take the time to pray and not expect our answer or recognize it when it comes knocking? I believe there are three main reasons why this happens.
First, is a "lack of expectation" due to "past experiences". In looking at the context of this scripture, these individuals had experienced fellow believers being killed, even after they prayed for their release. They had endured the stoning of Stephen, the slaying of James and now their leader Peter was schedule to be next. Those who were in the house praying, told the young girl who reported that their prayers had been answered, that she was "out of her mind". However, we must remember that our past experiences or failures do not determine or dictate God's present or future course of action. Many of the most difficult things that hinder our forward movement in life, are not the things that lay ahead of us, but those things that are behind us that distract us from what is happening in our lives now. We must expect God to answer our prayers and be on the look out for its manifestation in our lives, regardless of what happened yesterday. The Bible says that he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
Secondly, prayer in the lives of many believers, has been minimized to being nothing more than a "religious activity or responsibility", instead of it being the heaven moving gift of God. When we lose sight of the fact that we are calling upon an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent Creator God of the universe, who also happens to be "our Father", we can become overwhelmed by the severity of our situation. We must understand that we are not calling upon another human being or some distant disinterested deity - but our Father who has no limitations. If I can find it in His Word, and agree with what He has said, the facts of my situation will have to line up with the truth of His word. Facts change everyday, but the truth never changes. Because I've decided to believe the truth above the fluctuating facts, I have a legitimate expectation of manifestation (answered pray) in my life. Prayer is more than religion or a believer's responsibility, but a relationship with our Father!
Thirdly, "God's ways are not our ways". I truly believe, that part of the difficulty those gathered in prayer had in receiving their answer, was that it seemed "too easy". They prayed and God answered their prayer. It was that simple! Believe it or not, this happens more often than you think. I've discovered that many of us overlook our answers because we "feel" that we haven't toiled, labored or suffered enough to have earned an answer from God. Remember, you are a "son", not a slave! You don't earn blessings - you receive them! Jesus said, in Matthew 7:11, "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
Therefore, what have you been praying to God about? Did you know that God is your Father and He wants to bless you? Do you expect your prayer to be answered? If not, you need to take a good look around, because the answer to your prayer may have already arrived, and waiting on you to receive it!
Pastor James C. (J.C.) Matthews is the founder and Senior Pastor of the multi-cultural non-denominational Dunamis Life Ministries of Dallas, Texas. Pastor Matthews is known for his love of God's Word, unusual wisdom, passionate preaching style and gift of practically applying scripture to everyday. He is the author of the Saved but Stuck: 30 Days to Personal Revival". "I'll Come... When I Get Myself Together" and "My Situation Is Not My Destination - Only Preparation". J.C. Matthews lives in the Dallas / Ft. Worth Texas area with his wife Gena and four children.
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Your Answer is at the Door
Rev. James C. Matthews
"So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him' ... 'Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists'. ... 'When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!" "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel." But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. (Acts 12:5,7,12-16, NIV)
One morning during my prayer and devotion time, I ran across a scripture that stopped me in my tracks. There was something in the text that God wanted me to see. So I backed up and reread the text again. Then it hit me! These believers, who were praying earnestly, weren't expecting their prayers to be answered. I said to myself: "How can this be? How can we prayer "earnestly" for something and not believe our answer when it arrives?" God revealed to me that this happens all the time. He sends answers to our prayers and they are returned to Him stamped "Unclaimed."
Why is this? How can we take the time to pray and not expect our answer or recognize it when it comes knocking? I believe there are three main reasons why this happens.
First, is a "lack of expectation" due to "past experiences". In looking at the context of this scripture, these individuals had experienced fellow believers being killed, even after they prayed for their release. They had endured the stoning of Stephen, the slaying of James and now their leader Peter was schedule to be next. Those who were in the house praying, told the young girl who reported that their prayers had been answered, that she was "out of her mind". However, we must remember that our past experiences or failures do not determine or dictate God's present or future course of action. Many of the most difficult things that hinder our forward movement in life, are not the things that lay ahead of us, but those things that are behind us that distract us from what is happening in our lives now. We must expect God to answer our prayers and be on the look out for its manifestation in our lives, regardless of what happened yesterday. The Bible says that he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6).
Secondly, prayer in the lives of many believers, has been minimized to being nothing more than a "religious activity or responsibility", instead of it being the heaven moving gift of God. When we lose sight of the fact that we are calling upon an omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent Creator God of the universe, who also happens to be "our Father", we can become overwhelmed by the severity of our situation. We must understand that we are not calling upon another human being or some distant disinterested deity - but our Father who has no limitations. If I can find it in His Word, and agree with what He has said, the facts of my situation will have to line up with the truth of His word. Facts change everyday, but the truth never changes. Because I've decided to believe the truth above the fluctuating facts, I have a legitimate expectation of manifestation (answered pray) in my life. Prayer is more than religion or a believer's responsibility, but a relationship with our Father!
Thirdly, "God's ways are not our ways". I truly believe, that part of the difficulty those gathered in prayer had in receiving their answer, was that it seemed "too easy". They prayed and God answered their prayer. It was that simple! Believe it or not, this happens more often than you think. I've discovered that many of us overlook our answers because we "feel" that we haven't toiled, labored or suffered enough to have earned an answer from God. Remember, you are a "son", not a slave! You don't earn blessings - you receive them! Jesus said, in Matthew 7:11, "If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!"
Therefore, what have you been praying to God about? Did you know that God is your Father and He wants to bless you? Do you expect your prayer to be answered? If not, you need to take a good look around, because the answer to your prayer may have already arrived, and waiting on you to receive it!
Pastor James C. (J.C.) Matthews is the founder and Senior Pastor of the multi-cultural non-denominational Dunamis Life Ministries of Dallas, Texas. Pastor Matthews is known for his love of God's Word, unusual wisdom, passionate preaching style and gift of practically applying scripture to everyday. He is the author of the Saved but Stuck: 30 Days to Personal Revival". "I'll Come... When I Get Myself Together" and "My Situation Is Not My Destination - Only Preparation". J.C. Matthews lives in the Dallas / Ft. Worth Texas area with his wife Gena and four children.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Answered Prayer
Sunday, March 14, 2010 Print Article
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Answered Prayer
Sonique Sailsman
Depending on who you speak with prayer has many different meanings and styles. Some only pray at a certain time of the day and others pray in a particular place. Some feel prayers must be conducted in a certain order and fashion and others pray spontaneously and without regard. No matter what your opinion is on prayer, it is practically universal that prayer is effective.
Prayer is a personal conversation with GOD. It is a time to thank GOD for his many blessings, petition him for a need and intercede on behalf of another person. When you come to GOD just as you are, unashamed and humble, he is faithful to hear and answer your request.
When you do pray you must understand that GOD is not a genie. Answers to your prayers are based on a few circumstances. Are you walking in GOD's will for your life? Are you being obedient to his voice? Are you putting others needs before your own? These are a few questions you should ask yourself as you pray. GOD is so amazing that he may even show you the answers to these questions in the mist of your prayer. With increased prayer comes more insight and more answers.
What are you asking GOD for? Be very specific. It could be as simple as the kind of dog you want for your birthday or more detailed like the corner office on the 18th floor. GOD is not surprised by your request. He knew before you asked, he was just waiting for you to open up to him and have a conversation. If you look back over your life you can take inventory and see that your prayers were answered and you did not even realize it because you moved on to the next request.
I would encourage you to be more aware of the small prayers that GOD has answered. What a blessing that GOD is not like man and doesn't get mad when we don't recognize and say thank you. He continues to be readily available to hear your prayers at whatever time you present them.
Before I moved into my current home I created a list of things that I wanted. I was very specific including the levels of the home, what the inside and outside should look like. I found a picture during my house search and I kept that image in my head. In the search I would pray and ask GOD that he would give me the home that my heart desired.
Every home that I looked at just did not have all the things that I wanted so I continued to look and did not settle. In the end I am happy and comfortable in the home I wanted with all the specifics that I desired.
Prayer is such an easy task but many think it requires complicated words and phrases. It is probably the easiest way to connect with anyone, especially the one who causes the sun to rise and set. No waiting until the office opens or someone wakes up. You can pray when and where you want to. You can make your request known unto God and by faith and if it is in HIS eternal will for your life it will be given onto you.
You may not be seeking a new home but your prayer maybe a new job, financial blessing, a mate, a car etc. Whatever it is that your heart desires take it to GOD and be very specific. Trust and have faith that your prayers are being heard.
If you feel you are not in right standing with GOD and your prayers are hindered I encourage you to begin praying that GOD would remove the hindrances between you and HIM and you can begin to move in the joy of answered prayer.
So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer- Ezra 8:23
A pediatric registered nurse, Sonique Sailsman teaches pediatric nursing both in the classroom and in a clinical environment. She has served in ministry since her time at the University of Miami. She enjoys writing short devotionals for friends and family just to encourage and edify. Sonique Sailsman can be reached at standandencourage@hotmail.com
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Answered Prayer
Sonique Sailsman
Depending on who you speak with prayer has many different meanings and styles. Some only pray at a certain time of the day and others pray in a particular place. Some feel prayers must be conducted in a certain order and fashion and others pray spontaneously and without regard. No matter what your opinion is on prayer, it is practically universal that prayer is effective.
Prayer is a personal conversation with GOD. It is a time to thank GOD for his many blessings, petition him for a need and intercede on behalf of another person. When you come to GOD just as you are, unashamed and humble, he is faithful to hear and answer your request.
When you do pray you must understand that GOD is not a genie. Answers to your prayers are based on a few circumstances. Are you walking in GOD's will for your life? Are you being obedient to his voice? Are you putting others needs before your own? These are a few questions you should ask yourself as you pray. GOD is so amazing that he may even show you the answers to these questions in the mist of your prayer. With increased prayer comes more insight and more answers.
What are you asking GOD for? Be very specific. It could be as simple as the kind of dog you want for your birthday or more detailed like the corner office on the 18th floor. GOD is not surprised by your request. He knew before you asked, he was just waiting for you to open up to him and have a conversation. If you look back over your life you can take inventory and see that your prayers were answered and you did not even realize it because you moved on to the next request.
I would encourage you to be more aware of the small prayers that GOD has answered. What a blessing that GOD is not like man and doesn't get mad when we don't recognize and say thank you. He continues to be readily available to hear your prayers at whatever time you present them.
Before I moved into my current home I created a list of things that I wanted. I was very specific including the levels of the home, what the inside and outside should look like. I found a picture during my house search and I kept that image in my head. In the search I would pray and ask GOD that he would give me the home that my heart desired.
Every home that I looked at just did not have all the things that I wanted so I continued to look and did not settle. In the end I am happy and comfortable in the home I wanted with all the specifics that I desired.
Prayer is such an easy task but many think it requires complicated words and phrases. It is probably the easiest way to connect with anyone, especially the one who causes the sun to rise and set. No waiting until the office opens or someone wakes up. You can pray when and where you want to. You can make your request known unto God and by faith and if it is in HIS eternal will for your life it will be given onto you.
You may not be seeking a new home but your prayer maybe a new job, financial blessing, a mate, a car etc. Whatever it is that your heart desires take it to GOD and be very specific. Trust and have faith that your prayers are being heard.
If you feel you are not in right standing with GOD and your prayers are hindered I encourage you to begin praying that GOD would remove the hindrances between you and HIM and you can begin to move in the joy of answered prayer.
So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and he answered our prayer- Ezra 8:23
A pediatric registered nurse, Sonique Sailsman teaches pediatric nursing both in the classroom and in a clinical environment. She has served in ministry since her time at the University of Miami. She enjoys writing short devotionals for friends and family just to encourage and edify. Sonique Sailsman can be reached at standandencourage@hotmail.com
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