PM#0545 Unity in Prayer Matthew 18:19, John 12:32, John 17:21

PM#0545
Unity in Prayer
Matthew 18:19, John 12:32,  John 17:21

Traveling across the United States we are a diverse people with different customs.  Yet we are one nation.  Acceptance of different customs is an important part of unity.

When it comes to prayer we often have differences that need God’s help so when people pray together we can ask in prayer that the Holy Spirit work and help us accept differences so we can be in Godly unity as we pray.  I believe that a fruit of this unity will be the Love of Christ being shed among us.   This love will lift up Christ, and the Bible says that when Christ is lifted up, He will draw all men to Himself. John 12 vs 32.
 
Father we ask your Holy Spirit to work in our hearts so we can come together in unity.  May your love be evident in us because of this praying together.  In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Reflection:  

What is in us that keeps us from accepting differences?

When we do not accept differences is this a form of judgment?

Those questions being asked, we need to stop a moment and recognize there are basic elements of our faith in Jesus—that we should pray in accordance with God’s Word and come to the Father in Jesus’ name.—Still when praying with others of differing customs of prayer—it can be difficult. 

One more thought to consider—why do you think that Christ prayed that we would be one?   See John 17:21 “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee.”

PM#0355 Forgiving but Harboring Resentment Jeremiah 17 vs 9

PM#0355

Forgiving but Harboring Resentment

Jer 17:9

How many of us say we have forgiven someone, or something, but our actions and words still show judgment or running away from a situation?

When we dwell on issues, it is very possible that we have judged that issue or one involved with the issue.  Because of that judgment, we cannot see clearly to resolve the issue God’s way.  Our heart is very deceitful, and it may cause us to sense our heart is actually speaking what God wants.  I know I can plead guilty to this happening. 

We can learn, however, to see clearly by leaving the issue that has been forgiven at the foot of the Cross of Christ.  Perhaps we should pray that the issues which we have forgiven is placed and will be left at the foot of the cross.

Father, may issues which we have forgiven be placed and left at the foot of the Cross. We need your help. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Reflection:

Is our forgiveness really from our hearts or our minds?

Is judgment affect our ability to forgive from the heart?

If forgiveness is really from our heart—shouldn’t that be reflected in our actions—by not showing judgment-especially in our words?

Why is it important to lay issues at the foot of the cross and leave them there?

PM#0358 Forgiveness and Mercy Acts 7 vs 54-60

PM#0358

Forgiveness and Mercy

Act 7:54-60

Steven had a heart of forgiveness and mercy.  This came from his being changed by the Love of Christ.

Our normal response when we view evil is to view the one committing it as evil and unforgiveable.  When we make that kind of judgment, it actually empowers the other person to have the power to condemn us.  None of us like that to happen. 

On the other hand, acting in forgiveness frees us and also helps us to accept accountability for our choices that may have contributed to evil.   Forgiveness then can allow us to submit to the healing brought by the Holy Spirit of God to us when we have been wronged.

God’s Love will not isolate us from trials and suffering, but it will guide us and help us.

Father, thank you, that you can guide us and help us to forgive others.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Reflection Questions:

We all have deep emotions to deal with when we are faced with danger.  What do you think helped Steven with his emotions to forgive?

Why does forgiveness free us?

How does forgiveness help us submit to the Holy Spirit of God?

Can Forgiveness make a difference when we pray?