“Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.” (PSALM 119:164) During automobile races, the drivers take pit stops to refuel and make adjustments on their cars. They must stop and recalibrate in order to compete and complete the race. The psalmist took regular praise pit stops, or breaks, throughout the day. We...
“Hallowed be thy name. . . thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory. . .” (Matthew 6:9, 13) In the model prayer, Jesus gave explicit instruction. Prayer should begin with praise. Note the opening words— “Our Father. . . Hallowed be thy name” (Matthew 6:9–13). Praising the Father is primary, and paves the way for further...
Biblical praise is both an entrance into God’s immediate presence and an exit from despair. Scripture is saturated with the theme of praise—it is vitally important and absolutely necessary. Praise Your Way INTO God’s Presence We are instructed to “Enter… into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name” (Psalm 100:4). Admission into His hallowed...
Spirit-led prayer is always in line with the written Word. Real prayer is not based on the thoughts and concerns that may randomly pop into our minds. Real prayer is “deep calling unto deep” (Psalm 42:7), absorbing the heart and mind of God in practical matters. When our minds are enlightened by the Word and...
If you think like a victim, you will remain a victim. If you believe you are worthless, your effectiveness will dwindle. However, if you hold a humble view of yourself, you invite grace into your life. Your thoughts shape the very fabric of your future. As Solomon wisely stated, “As a man thinks, so is...
Powerful praying is the forerunner of vitality in preaching. Who can deny that the remarkable power of John and Charles Wesley and George Whitefield in preaching was due to their mighty praying? An unknown writer penned these words: “Pentecost was the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in answer to prayer, and not the result of...