Be Aware - Nehemiah 1:1-11 - March 1, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Be Aware – March 1, 2009

This is lesson one (1) in a new series of study entitled “Stepping Up to Serve.”

Our scripture for the month of March will be taken from the book of Nehemiah.

Nehemiah was not a prophet or a priest but a layman called by GOD to rebuild the wall surrounding Jerusalem. He was a descendant of the Jews that had been taken captive in 586 B.C. and carried off to Babylon. In 539 B.C. Cyrus the Persian conquered the Mesopotamian (Babylonian) area and permitted the Jews in that area to return to Jerusalem. These returning Jews had been living in the Jerusalem area for close to 100 years. They had rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem in 516 B.C. but they had not been able to rebuild the wall around the city or the gates to the city. There were several attempts to rebuild but local enemies complained to King Artaxerxes I. They said that the Jews wanted to rebuild the gates so they could withdraw from the rule of King Artaxerxes I. So the King sent a letter to the Jewish leadership in Jerusalem commanding them to stop all work on rebuilding. Artaxerxes ruled from 465 B.C. to 424 B.C.

The Book of Nehemiah takes place during the rule of the Persian ruler, Artaxerxes I. Our scripture begins about 445 B.C. Nehemiah was the cupbearer for King Artaxerxes I. A delegation of Jews from Jerusalem came to Persia. One of the returning Jews to Persia was Nehemiah’s brother, Hanani (huh-NAY-nigh). Nehemiah 7:2 - 2 Then I put my brother Hanani in charge of Jerusalem, along with Hananiah, commander of the fortress, because he was a faithful man who • feared God more than most.

Nehemiah learned from this delegation of the awful conditions in Jerusalem. The city gates which had been burned and the walls surrounding the city had not been rebuilt.
The condition of Jerusalem touched the heart of Nehemiah and he wept, fasted and prayed about Jerusalem’s awful situation. Nehemiah knew the condition of Jerusalem was the result of sin. So first he acknowledged his sins and then the sins of the Jewish people. This is ground zero. We will see how GOD will use a dedicated layman to accomplish a mammoth task and how doing the will of GOD is not easy. We will also see how obedience builds confidence and trust in GOD.

Our scripture is Nehemiah 1:1-11.

Our scripture begins with Nehemiah in the city of Shushan (SHOO-shan), which is the winter home for Persian kings.

Let’s read Nehemiah 1:1-3:

1 The words of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah (HAK uh LIGH uh):

News from Jerusalem

During the month of Chislev (KISS loo) in the twentieth year,[1] The twentieth year of King Artaxerxes of Persia, November–December 446 (or 445) b.c. when I was in the fortress city of Susa, 2 Hanani (huh NAY nigh), one of my brothers, arrived with men from Judah, and I questioned them about Jerusalem and the Jewish remnant that had returned from exile. 3 They said to me, “The survivors in the province,[2] Neh 11:3 who returned from the exile, are in great trouble and disgrace. Jerusalem’s wall has been broken down, and its gates have been burned down.”[3] Neh 2:13

The month of Chislev (KISS loo) included parts of November and December. Nehemiah was at the winter place with King Artaxerxes in the city of Shushan or Susa, when he learned of the disgraceful conditions in Jerusalem. This detail helps to establish the time period. It is likely that Nehemiah kept a journal and recorded these events.

Nehemiah’s brother was part of a delegation coming from Jerusalem to report these awful conditions. Speculation is that since Nehemiah was the cupbearer for the king, Hanani sought out his brother to either get word to the king or get an audience with the king to seek help for Jerusalem.

As mentioned earlier, when Cyrus the Persian defeated the Babylonians in 539 B.C., he allowed the exiled Jews to return to Jerusalem. Our scripture takes place about 445 B.C. or roughly 94 years later. Even though the Jews had been allowed to return to Jerusalem for these 94 years, the city was deplorable and a disgrace to the Jews. There had been attempts to rebuild the city gates but local enemies prevented them from restoring them. This deplorable situation touched Nehemiah’s heart.

But we need to keep in mind that King Artaxerxes I had sent a letter to the Jewish leadership in Jerusalem to stop rebuilding the walls and the gates to the city.

It was a disgrace for a city to be so vulnerable. Its vulnerability sent a message of weakness to all. In that day it was a battle of the gods. When a nation serving a certain god defeated a nation serving another god, it showed the strength of the conquering god. This notion may have been looming in Nehemiah’s mind along with the awful conditions of a city which at one time was focused on the worship of the true GOD.

Let’s read Nehemiah 1: 4-7:

Nehemiah’s Prayer

4 When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for a number of days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven. 5 I said, Lord God of heaven, the great and awe-inspiring God who keeps His gracious covenant with those who love Him and keep His commands,[4] Dt 7:9 6 let Your eyes be open and Your ears be attentive to hear Your servant’s prayer that I now pray to You day and night for Your servants, the Israelites. I confess the sins[5] Lit sins of the Israelites we have committed against You. Both I and my father’s house have sinned. 7 We have acted corruptly toward You and have not kept the commands, statutes, and ordinances You gave Your servant Moses.

WOW! What a prayer. We just completed our study on prayer. This is a good example of an effective prayer. It is likely Nehemiah kept a journal and recorded his experience as he journeyed with GOD. Keeping a journal is a good idea for believers as well.

Nehemiah took ownership of the situation. He immediately recognized and acknowledged the circumstances of the Israelites were the result of sin. Sin caused the defeat of the Israelites who were led away as captives to Babylon. Sin was still the problem for the Israelites. They were not worshiping and obediently serving GOD. Nehemiah’s heart was touched by the Spirit of GOD.

This reminds me of salvation. The Sprit of GOD touches the heart of a sinner who confesses his/her sin, asks CHRIST for forgiveness and for CHRIST to come into his/her life. Salvation brings about a life altering change. It is the beginning of an exciting journey and relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Nehemiah had a life altering experience that led him to an intimate relationship with GOD, as he obediently sought to serve HIM.

Nehemiah acknowledged the faithfulness of GOD. GOD never left the Israelites but they left HIM. Now it was time for them to confess their sins and seek to rebuild their relationship with HIM through obedience.

Nehemiah has been pouring out his heart to GOD day and night. Nehemiah is committed to restoring his relationship with GOD. By his consistent prayers he is acknowledging to GOD that he and his fellow Israelites have neglected serving GOD as GOD commanded through Moses.

Let’s read Nehemiah 1:8-11:

8 Please remember what You commanded Your servant Moses: “[If]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples.[6] Dt 4:25–27; 28:64 9 But if you return to Me and carefully observe My commands, even though your exiles were banished to the ends of the earth,[7] Lit skies I will gather them from there and bring them to the place where I chose to have My name dwell.”[8] Dt 30:4 10 They are Your servants and Your people. You redeemed [them]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. by Your great power and strong hand.[9] Dt 7:8; 9:26,29 11 Please, Lord, let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your servant and to that of Your servants who delight to revere Your name. Give Your servant success today, and have compassion on him in the presence of this man.[10] = the king [At the time,]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. I was the king’s cupbearer.

Nehemiah sees his sin and the sins of the Israelites. He was asking GOD to remember HIS promises to Moses. Nehemiah in essence was telling GOD, “I get it. I see what has prevented me and collectively us as a nation from being restored as a nation. My heart has been broken because of our disobedience. I know YOU delivered us from slavery in Egypt and led us to the Promised Land. I understand and see that when we turned our back on YOU, YOU allowed us to be defeated and led away as captives. Now that I understand that, please remember that YOU also said if we return to YOU and obey YOUR commands YOU will restore us as a nation who honors and obeys YOU.”

Nehemiah feels like GOD has abandoned them. Often believers feel as if GOD has abandoned them. GOD never moves but is always ready and available for a repentant sinner to come home. What a joy it is to know we have a loving, caring heavenly FATHER that is always available regardless of what we have done.

The word “redeem” means delivered from danger and slavery by the power of GOD. Only GOD can deliver us from any situation and only HE provided deliverance from the bondage of sin and death through the life, death, resurrection and ascension of HIS only SON, JESUS.

In verse 11, Nehemiah is asking GOD to give him success in the presence of “this man.” The man was King Artaxerxes I. As you recall, the king had written a letter stopping the rebuilding process. Once a king gives an order it is very dangerous to try to get him to change it.

Nehemiah, being the cupbearer for the king, knew this. In that day it was a life threatening experience to speak to the king. Even the Queen took her life in her own hands if she approached the king without the king summoning her. The person approaching the king would request permission to speak to him. If the king extended his scepter to that person, that was the signal for the person to speak. However, if the king did not extend the scepter that person better remain silent and hope the king did not have him/her killed. So naturally Nehemiah was very concerned because he was preparing, that day, to ask the king to help rebuild Jerusalem’s city walls and gates. Nehemiah had been praying for days but that day was decision day. The day for action and trusting GOD with what was on his heart had arrived.

This act reveals the heart of Nehemiah and his dependence upon GOD for help and guidance. Nehemiah was trusting GOD in a difficult situation. This was a step of faith to put into action what he believed in his heart.

Believers can learn from Nehemiah. Nehemiah had prayed confessing his sins and short comings. He had prayed for days. Then decision day arrived and he was concerned. He prayed and asked GOD for success for that day. This caused me to ponder his request to GOD. Yesterday has passed, tomorrow has not arrived but believers need to pray for success for the day. In these troubling times, we need to pray for success for the day. We can pray such a prayer because we have done our part to prepare for the day at hand.

There are times in our lives when we have to take a step of faith to serve the LORD. A step of faith is not to show GOD what is in our heart but to confirm to ourselves the provision and care of GOD when we act upon what GOD has placed in our hearts. As believers take steps of faith, they continue to confirm their service to the LORD. It builds a believer’s trust and confidence in HIM, which in turn builds his/her relationship with HIM. It is important as we journey with our LORD that we always remain in HIS will. When we are in the right relationship with HIM, we are always in HIS will. But I am reminded of the time when GOD told Moses to speak to the rock for water but instead he struck the rock. GOD may have led a believer to do something a certain way many times but when HE says to change, it is time to change. Often, we have to work outside our comfort zone. However, when we do work outside our comfort zone, make sure it is GOD that is leading us. Pray about it and then act as GOD leads you.

Nehemiah will be an exciting study and it is fitting that this study follows our study on praying with power. Nehemiah is an ordinary person that GOD called and equipped to do extraordinary things.

GOD is equipping HIS saints. Step one is to be honest with GOD. Have we neglected HIM and as a result we have been defeated and led away captive? Is it time to confess our neglect, return to HIM and ask HIM to restore our relationship with HIM? Have our walls been broken down and out gates burned which has made us vulnerable to the ravages of Satan? Our power and strength comes from the LORD. It is time to rebuild our relationship and that takes a step of faith. Why not take that step today at this moment.

FATHER, I realize I have allowed the walls of my heart to be broken down and the gates of my heart burned. I repent and come to YOU asking that YOU restore the joy I once knew in obediently serving YOU. Restore our relationship as we rebuild together a fortress which will glory YOU. I ask this in the name of JESUS and thank you that YOU have heard my earnest request. This day is decision day to walk with YOU as YOU lead and direct my life. AMEN.

Pray for Others - John 17:9-26; 1 Cor. 12:4-11; 14:1-19 - February 22, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Pray for Others – February 22, 2009

This is our final lesson in our series entitled “How to Pray with Power.”

Our scripture is John 17:9-26, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 14:1-19.

This lesson concludes our study on prayer but my prayer for each of us is that it will be the beginning of a more effective and powerful prayer life. Ground zero is each believer. When we began our study, we saw that David knew GOD and trusted GOD completely. His knowing and trusting GOD did not happen overnight but it was built over time, through various circumstances. It was through a dynamic, intimate, loving relationship. Confidence and trust is built by interacting with GOD and building a dynamic relationship with HIM.

In our next lesson, we discussed persistence and the work that a persistent prayer life can have upon each believer as he or she waits upon and trusts the LORD to answer prayer. The LORD may be working out a situation or HE may use that time for the believer to work through some things before the answer can come. It may be a test of a believer’s trust and faith in GOD. We have to consider that the answer may be “no” and the period of persistent prayer is the time needed for a believer to accept “no” as the answer.

In last week’s study, we discussed praying in the name of JESUS. Yes, there is power in the name of JESUS. When a believer encounters evil, he or she can claim protection in the name of JESUS and by claiming the blood of JESUS. When we pray in the name of JESUS, we are representing JESUS just as HE would have when HE represented the FATHER here upon earth. GOD’S goal is for every believer to be made into the image of CHRIST. When a believer is transformed into the image of CHRIST and prays in the name of JESUS, it will be done because his/her request will be according to the will of the FATHER. This can come about only through an intimate relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Let’s read John 17:9-12:

9 I pray[3] Lit ask (throughout this passage) for them. I am not praying for the world but for those You have given Me, because they are Yours. 10 All My things are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I have been glorified in them. 11 I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, protect[4] Lit keep (throughout this passage) them by Your name[5] Pr 18:10 that You have given Me, so that they may be one as We are one. 12 While I was with them, I was protecting them by Your name that You have given Me. I guarded them and not one of them is lost, except the son of destruction,[6] The one destined for destruction, loss, or perdition so that the Scripture may be fulfilled.[7] Ps 41:9; Jn 13:18; 15:25; 19:24,36

JESUS is praying for HIS disciples and the disciples are listening to HIS prayer. The time for HIS crucifixion is at hand. JESUS is praying to HIS FATHER and asking for protection for HIS disciples. This is intercessory prayer for others. JESUS continues to teach HIS disciples the importance of prayer and praying for others. This prayer could have been an anchor for them during troubling times. There are times we all need an anchor.

Believers should pray for others, particularly when you know they are or will be facing troubling times. Pray as you are lead to pray at all times for all situations.
JESUS acknowledged that the disciples were entrusted to HIM and HE had taught them as instructed by the FATHER. Now it was time for the transition from HIS care and protection to the care and protection of the FATHER. A new dynamic would take place over the course of the coming days.

CHRIST would soon complete HIS mission and HE was passing the responsibility of the redemptive gospel, which is the Good News to HIS disciples. JESUS willingly came to earth as the human representation of GOD, 100% human and 100% divine. HE was born, lived a sinless life, died on the cross for the sins of mankind and GOD raised HIM from the dead as proof that HE conquered death. All a person has to do is as CHRIST to forgive him/her of his or her sin and believe that CHRIST died and rose again for him/her.

This is astounding “Good News”, it is simple. All believers have this “Good News” to share. Share this “Good News” as the LORD gives you the opportunity with your family, friends and others as you journey through life.

Let’s read John 17:13-16:

13 Now I am coming to You, and I speak these things in the world so that they may have My joy completed in them. 14 I have given them Your word. The world hated them because they are not of the world, as I am not of the world. 15 I am not praying that You take them out of the world but that You protect them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, as I am not of the world.

JESUS’ prayer to HIS FATHER continues and HE speaks of the world. The world is earth itself and all the people in the world. The world is ruled by Satan and CHRIST is leaving HIS disciples behind in a world ruled by Satan. HE knows the difficulties they will be encountering. HIS prayer is not that they will be taken out of the world but that the FATHER will protect them. Just as CHRIST came from heaven to earth, HE is returning to heaven. HIS disciples, through the miracle of rebirth, are now citizens of heaven. JESUS makes it clear that the disciples are to remain among those who do not know the truth and spread the message of truth to them.

We need to keep in mind that there will be a period of time between the death, resurrection and ascension of JESUS before the disciples, as well as other believers, will be filled and permanently indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT. The HOLY SPIRIT is a believer’s protection, power, enlightener and teacher as he or she journeys through life. CHRIST’S ascension into heaven allowed the FATHER to send the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell every believer. JESUS’ sinless life and passion on the cross, through HIS shed blood, made ready the body of each believer to be the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT.

JESUS wanted them and all believers to know the JOY of knowing the FATHER. It is an unspeakable joy to know that you belong to the FATHER through CHRIST. It is the joy of knowing that GOD is real and actively involved in all aspects of your life. As a believer, you are GOD’S son or daughter.

In essence, JESUS considered Himself already in heaven with HIS FATHER. Joy comes by obediently serving. Joy comes from the relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Sanctification is the process of getting to really know GOD, understand HIM, trust HIM and build confidence in HIM. Sanctification is part of building the right relationship with GOD.

Let’s read John 17:17-19:

17 Sanctify[8] Set apart for special use them by the truth; Your word is truth. 18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. 19 I sanctify Myself for them, so they also may be sanctified by the truth.

Sanctification is being set aside to serve GOD. Sanctification is the process of being made more like CHRIST. Sanctification is forming, building and maintaining the relationship with GOD through CHRIST as empowered by the HOLY SPIRIT. JESUS prayed that HIS disciples would be set aside, not by obligation or out of loyalty to HIM, but because they see and understand the truth. JESUS commissioned the disciples to go into the world and share this truth.

To me, verse 19 is a tender and loving statement, “I sanctify Myself, so they also ---.” JESUS knew HIS mission was not over. HE had to give HIS life to pay the price of sin. In essence, JESUS was saying to the FATHER, I am committed to MY mission unto death. It was a recommitment.

JESUS’ death was necessary for the disciples to have a message of redemption to share with the world, for their salvation, as well as, the salvation of all believers. HIS death and resurrection is the “Good News.”

Did you know that JESUS prayed for all believers as well?

Let’s read John 17:20-26:

Jesus Prays for All Believers and for unity.

20 I pray not only for these, but also for those who believe in Me through their message. 21 May they all be one, as You, Father, are in Me and I am in You. May they also be one[9] Other mss omit one in Us, so the world may believe You sent Me. 22 I have given them the glory You have given Me. May they be one as We are one. 23 I am in them and You are in Me. May they be made completely one, so the world may know You have sent Me and have loved them as You have loved Me. 24 Father, I desire those You have given Me to be with Me where I am. Then they will see My glory, which You have given Me because You loved Me before the world’s foundation. 25 Righteous Father! The world has not known You. However, I have known You, and these have known that You sent Me. 26 I made Your name known to them and will make it known, so the love You have loved Me with may be in them and I may be in them.

JESUS prayed for all believers. This is intercessory prayer. Do you pray for others?

I pray for our children, their mates, grandchildren, their future mates, great grandchildren, their future mates, etc. to the end of time. The LORD brings to mind people who have died and I pray for their living family, friends, acquaintances or whoever has been touched by their life or death. You see crosses along the side of the road where a person or persons have died. I pray for those still living that may need salvation or a special touch from the LORD. I am not saying you are to do this but this is something the LORD has led me to do at times. When I hear a siren, I know it is an emergency vehicle or police car in an emergency situation and often I am led to pray for those responding, as well as, for those already at the place they are going. If it is an ambulance going to the hospital then I pray for those who will need wisdom to know what to do once the ambulance arrives.

We can pray for people we see as we journey through life such as in the grocery, walking down the street, a mother distressed over a crying child, those walking in pain, those in need, those in a passing car, or those flying over our heads, our men and women in uniform, our government representatives, our teachers, church leaders and the list goes on and on. Oh, the power of prayer. What a joy it is to come into the presence of GOD, our FATHER and let our requests be known to HIM.

Pray for others, it is a joy.

Let’s read 1 Corinthians 12:4-11: The focus is on praying in tongues.

4 Now there are different gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 There are different ministries, but the same Lord. 6 And there are different activities, but the same God is active in everyone and everything.[2] Lit God acts all things in all 7 A manifestation of the Spirit is given to each person to produce what is beneficial: 8 to one is given a message of wisdom through the Spirit, to another, a message of knowledge by the same Spirit, 9 to another, faith by the same Spirit, to another, gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another, the performing of miracles, to another, prophecy, to another, distinguishing between spirits, to another, different kinds of languages, to another, interpretation of languages. 11 But one and the same Spirit is active in all these, distributing to each one as He wills.

There are known tongues and unknown tongues. Unknown tongues are languages only known by GOD and the person speaking. Believers speaking in tongues may not know the word for word translation but it is a knowing and understanding by the HOLY SPIRIT. It is like I know what I feel in my heart but I cannot put it into words.
We have to be careful that the gift of tongues is from GOD and not something we generate because of our desire to speak in tongues or that Satan has slipped in a counterfeit. I can hear screams going up from some saying if you seek the gift from GOD it cannot come from any other source. According to verse 11, wait upon GOD to give it to you as HE wills. We can desire any of the gifts of the Spirit but it is up to GOD to allow a gift to be manifested through our lives. Keep in mind a gift is GOD’S power being manifested through a believer.

Let’s continue with tongues for another moment. The Apostle Paul spoke on this subject because some in the church in Corinth had made the gift of tongues a major issue. It was a badge of Spirituality.

1 Corinthians 14:1-19:

Prophecy: A Superior Gift

1 Pursue love and desire spiritual gifts, and above all that you may prophesy. 2 For the person who speaks in [another]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. language is not speaking to men but to God, since no one understands him; however, he speaks • mysteries in the Spirit.[1] Or in spirit, or in his spirit 3 But the person who prophesies speaks to people for edification, encouragement, and consolation. 4 The person who speaks in [another]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. language builds himself up, but he who prophesies builds up the church. 5 I wish all of you spoke in other languages, but even more that you prophesied. The person who prophesies is greater than the person who speaks in languages, unless he interprets so that the church may be built up. 6 But now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in [other]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. languages, how will I benefit you unless I speak to you with a revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? 7 Even inanimate things producing sounds—whether flute or harp—if they don’t make a distinction in the notes, how will what is played on the flute or harp be recognized? 8 In fact, if the trumpet makes an unclear sound, who will prepare for battle? 9 In the same way, unless you use your tongue for intelligible speech, how will what is spoken be known? For you will be speaking into the air. 10 There are doubtless many different kinds of languages in the world, and all have meaning.[2] Lit and none is without a sound 11 Therefore, if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner[3] Gk barbaros = in Eng a barbarian. To a Gk, a barbaros was anyone who did not speak Gk. to the speaker, and the speaker will be a foreigner to me. 12 So also you—since you are zealous in matters of the spirit,[4] Lit zealous of spirits; spirits = human spirits, spiritual gifts or powers, or the Holy Spirit seek to excel in building up the church. 13 Therefore the person who speaks in [another]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. language should pray that he can interpret. 14 For if I pray in [another]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. language, my spirit prays, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray with my understanding. I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with my understanding. 16 Otherwise, if you bless with the spirit, how will the uninformed person[5] Lit the one filling the place of the uninformed say “• Amen” at your giving of thanks, since he does not know what you are saying? 17 For you may very well be giving thanks, but the other person is not being built up. 18 I thank God that I speak in [other]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. languages more than all of you; 19 yet in the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, in order to teach others also, than 10,000 words in [another]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. language.

The Apostle Paul spoke in tongues, but read what he said in verses 18 and 19. Speaking or praying in tongues is a gift of the HOLY SPIRIT. Some church denominations believe that speaking in tongues is a confirmation that a believer has been filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. I know believers that speak in tongues. They are Godly people. I wanted the gift of tongues in my journey with our LORD and tried to receive it. But the LORD told me clearly that English was all I needed and if I ever got in a situation that I needed another language, HE would give it to me.

This is not a putdown of my brothers and sisters in the LORD who have the gift of tongues. It is a gift; however, believers who have the gift need to be careful not to think every believer must have the gift to confirm that a fellow believer has been filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. When a believer first accepts CHRIST he or she is filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. From that moment there will be plateaus of Spiritual experiences that are experiences of the presence of GOD in a believer’s life through the HOLY SPIRIT. I know when I committed my life to CHRIST in 1971 it was a very special encounter with my LORD. My life changed and I knew from that moment that I was GOD’S child.

I wanted to experience the fullness of CHRIST in my life and if speaking in tongues was what I needed, then I wanted to speak in tongues. But like I said earlier, the LORD told me English was a perfectly good language for me.

If the LORD chooses to give you the gift of tongues, then I rejoice with you.

Tongues are generally a private time with the LORD and ministers to the individual. But there are times tongues can be public. When tongues are spoken publicly there must be an interpreter, otherwise no one will understand what has been spoken. The interpretation of tongues is also a gift. Thus when the term “Full Gospel” is used by a group or denomination that generally means they are open to all the gifts of the SPIRIT being manifested by their group. Often there is an emphasis on speaking in tongues as confirmation of being filled with the HOLY SPIRIT.

As we conclude our series on “How to Pray with Power” the power comes from our relationship with GOD through CHRIST. When we pray in the name of JESUS we are representing JESUS. When we represent JESUS, we ask just as JESUS would ask. This can only come from having a right relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Focus on being honest with GOD and ask HIM to reveal to you any barriers that prevent you from having the most intimate, loving, dynamic relationship with HIM because your desire is to know HIM and to obediently serve HIM.

Pray in Jesus' Name - John 14:12-14; 15:1-16; 16:23-26 - February 15,2009

Sunday School Lesson – Pray in Jesus’ Name – February 15, 2009

This is lesson three (3) in our series entitled “Praying with Power.”

Our scripture is John 14:12-14; 15:1-16; 16:23-26.

Praying in the name of JESUS seems to be the magic formula to get what we want. Most believers end their prayers with “In the name of JESUS.” Yet we do not get everything we ask for in the name of JESUS. Why? There must be something else or something is wrong. Yet, JESUS told believers to pray in HIS name and they would receive.

I have struggled with this statement over the years. I recall years ago, I was very frustrated over this statement and went before the LORD asking HIM to help me understand it. I told HIM that I had asked many times for things I thought were legitimate “In JESUS name” but nothing happened.

HE used our family to answer my question. We have four (4) children, two (2) boys and two (2) girls. The youngest and oldest are boys and there is fourteen (14) years difference in their ages. I will paraphrase my conversation with the LORD. The boys were roughly seven (7) and twenty-one (21) years old.

I was frustrated. So I had a heart to heart conversation with the FATHER. HE reminded me that I had two (2) sons and that I had a shotgun. HE asked me if I loved my sons. I said, yes. HE asked if I would let my oldest son use my shotgun. I said, yes. HE asked if I would let my youngest son use the shotgun. I said, no. HE said so you love the oldest son more than the youngest son? I said, no. Then why would you let the oldest son use your shotgun but not the youngest? I said the oldest son has been trained in gun safety and I know he will not harm himself or someone else. HE asked if I would ever let the youngest son use the shotgun. I said yes, when is old enough and has been properly trained in gun safety and I am sure he will not harm himself or someone else I will let him use my shotgun. GOD responded with “Now think on this. When you are mature enough I will grant your requests.” Then I said, LORD make me a mature Christian. Be careful what you ask for. We think GOD sprinkles us with Holy Dust and we receive instant Spirituality. There may be times when HE gives us a gift of the Spirit and it overwhelms us but growing and maturing in HIM takes time. I am still growing and maturing.

JESUS makes it clear that just as earthly fathers desire to give their children good gifts, how much more does our Heavenly FATHER desire to give HIS children good gifts. HIS gifts will benefit us and not harm us.

JESUS tells us in Matthew 7:7-11: Active Persistence.

Keep Asking, Searching, Knocking

7 “Keep asking,[3] Or Ask and it will be given to you. Keep searching,[4] Or Search and you will find. Keep knocking,[5] Or Knock and the door[6] Lit and it will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door[7] Lit knocks, it will be opened. 9 What man among you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? 10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!

Effective prayer is all about our heart and our relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Ground zero is us. When we have the right relationship with CHRIST we are always in the will of the FATHER.

When a believer prays in the name of JESUS, is the power in the name and a believer uttering those words or is the power in WHOM the believer is representing when he or she prays in the name of JESUS? What does it mean to represent JESUS in HIS name? Let’s explore as GOD reveals truth to us through the HOLY SPIRIT.

We need to keep in mind that the events in our study take place the night before the crucifixion of JESUS. John 13:1-3:

1 Before the • Passover Festival, Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart from this world to the Father. Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.[1] to the end = completely or always 2 Now by the time of supper, the Devil had already put it into the heart of Judas, Simon Iscariot’s son, to betray Him. 3 Jesus knew that the Father had given everything into His hands, that He had come from God, and that He was going back to God.

Let’s read John 14:12-14:

Praying in Jesus’ Name - Seek What Glorifies GOD.

12 “• I assure you: The one who believes in Me will also do the works that I do. And he will do even greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 Whatever you ask in My name, I will do it so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask Me[7] Other mss omit Me anything in My name, I will do it.[8] Other mss omit all of v. 14

JESUS is speaking to HIS disciples the night before HIS crucifixion. In verse 12, JESUS, in essence, was saying to HIS disciples, “Pay special attention to what I am about to tell you.”

HIS remarks are directed to all believers and not to just the disciples. Believers will do the works that JESUS does – healing disease, blind, deaf, dumb, raising the dead, casting out demons, walking on water and the list goes on. Not only will believers do the same works JESUS’ has done, they will do even greater works. What in the world would be greater works? Most Bible scholars believe JESUS is speaking about quantity and not quality. JESUS knows HE will be crucified, raised from the dead, resurrected and then ascend into heaven to sit at the right hand of the FATHER. Then HE will send the HOLY SPIRIT to earth to indwell every believer. In essence, JESUS will duplicate Himself in each believer therefore multiplying the spread of the gospel and HIS ministry.

Other Bible scholars believe that JESUS was speaking about salvation. Once HE gives HIS life to pay the sin debt it will open the way for all who believe in HIM to be saved from sin and death. Each believer at the moment he or she believes will receive and be indwelled by the HOLY SPIRIT. To heal a person of a physical problem or cast out a demon are good things but to save a person from eternal punishment is far greater.
JESUS says that whatever a believer asks in HIS name HE will do it. To me this is a carte blanche statement or unrestricted freedom to ask whatever and it will be done. When we pray, we generally end it with “and we ask this in the name of JESUS.” So what do we think JESUS was saying?

First JESUS is addressing believers. So what is the fine print? Most of us know that we have prayed in earnest for unselfish needs that only GOD and HIS power could bring about. Yet, nothing happens. So we run the list when our prayers are not answered:
- Do we have any un-confessed sin? Are we praying according to GOD’S will? Are we praying selfishly?

Yet, JESUS says ask and HE will respond. What does it mean to ask in JESUS name?
When a believer asks in the name of JESUS it means that we are representing JESUS just as if JESUS is making the request. It means that we are in right relationship with GOD through CHRIST. We are one with HIM. Just as JESUS said that the “FATHER and I are ONE.”

It brings us back to being honest with GOD and building and maintaining our relationship with HIM. It is not just willy-nilly asking in the name of JESUS but it is asking the same as JESUS would ask. Seek what glorifies GOD. This means we will ask according to the will of the FATHER because we are one with HIM, which carries us to our next scripture.

Let’s read John 15:1-16: Greetings to you branches. Do you want to participate in JESUS’ work, if so; you have to stay connected to the vine.

The Vine and the Branches - Background verses 1-13:

1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vineyard keeper. 2 Every branch in Me that does not produce fruit He removes, and He prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in Me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in Me. 5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me. 6 If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be[1] Or and become My disciples.

Christlike Love

9 “As the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you. Remain in My love. 10 If you keep My commands you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commands and remain in His love. 11 “I have spoken these things to you so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete. 12 This is My command: love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends.

14 You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you slaves anymore, because a slave doesn’t know what his master[2] Or lord is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from My Father. 16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you. I appointed you that you should go out and produce fruit and that your fruit should remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.

Believers are branches of the true vine, which is CHRIST. All that a believer is or will ever be is because of CHRIST. A believer’s life, energy, vitality, power and nutrients come from CHRIST. Believers abide in HIM. In verse 10, JESUS tells us that HE obeyed HIS FATHER’S commandments and remained in a love relationship. JESUS tells believers that it is all about obedience and relationship, which results in joy. JESUS tells HIS disciples and all believers as well, that it was a joy for HIM to give HIS life to redeem us from sin and death.

Believers have been chosen by HIM. Many of you know my favorite verses of scripture Ephesians 1:3-6:

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens,[2] Eph 1:20; 2:6; 3:10; 6:12 in Christ; 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love 5 He predestined[6] Ac 4:28; Rm 8:29–30; 1 Co 2:7; Eph 1:11 us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, 6 to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved.

JESUS’ desire for all believers is for them to produce fruit and for their fruit to remain. We know that fruit has seeds and fruit reproduces and bares more fruit. So what is this fruit? An example is found in Galatians 5:22-26:

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith,[5] Or faithfulness 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 If we live by the Spirit, we must also follow the Spirit. 26 We must not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

So what has this to do with prayer? It helps us to see what it means to be able to represent CHRIST. The branches are the visible part of the vine but the branches cannot survive without the vine. Believers must remain in relationship with CHRIST to be effective in serving GOD. Prayer is vital in maintaining relationship and to listen to HIS commands as HE directs our lives.

Let’s read John 16:19-26: Because of JESUS, believers have direct access to GOD.

19 Jesus knew they wanted to question Him, so He said to them, “Are you asking one another about what I said, ‘A little while and you will not see Me; again a little while and you will see Me’? 20 “• I assure you: You will weep and wail, but the world will rejoice. You will become sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn to joy. 21 When a woman is in labor she has pain because her time has come. But when she has given birth to a child, she no longer remembers the suffering because of the joy that a person has been born into the world. 22 So you also have sorrow[6] Other mss read will have sorrow now. But I will see you again. Your hearts will rejoice, and no one will rob you of your joy.

23 In that day you will not ask Me anything. “I assure you: Anything you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.[7] Jn 14:13–14; 15:16 24 Until now you have asked for nothing in My name. Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be complete.

25 “I have spoken these things to you in figures of speech. A time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures, but I will tell you plainly about the Father. 26 In that day you will ask in My name. I am not telling you that I will make requests to the Father on your behalf.

27 For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came from God.[8] Other mss read from the Father 28 I came from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I am leaving the world and going to the Father.”

Verses 19-22, 27-28 are given for background. JESUS was preparing HIS disciples for the events soon to occur. HE was speaking to them in figures of speech. HE knew the days ahead would be difficult for them but when the HOLY SPIRIT indwelled them, they would understand. Think about the time before you accepted CHRIST as your SAVIOR. You tried to figure out what being a believer was all about. You knew facts but it was only after you took the step of faith that you saw clearly what it meant to be a believer. The HOLY SPIRIT enlightened your mind with truth and assured you of salvation.

Our focus is on verses 23-26. Verse 23 can be puzzling until we understand the meaning of the word “ask.” The disciples had the privilege of asking JESUS questions directly because HE was with them. Now, HE was returning to heaven, therefore, they would be asking GOD directly through “prayer.” CHRIST’S death removed the barrier between mankind and GOD. After the death of CHRIST believers have direct access to GOD their FATHER. A believer’s authority for going directly to GOD is because of JESUS, therefore, approach GOD in the name of JESUS. It is all about relationship.

Believers have direct access to GOD because of JESUS and can freely approach GOD in the name of JESUS. This is simple enough. But the question is, have we relinquished our will to GOD so HE can transform us into the image of HIS SON, JESUS? Yes, all believers have immediate and direct access to GOD our FATHER but are we still living according to our will and the dictates of the flesh or are we living according to the will and purpose of GOD? It is in the context of being made into the image of CHRIST that whatever we ask in the name of JESUS, it will be done. JESUS did and spoke only what the FATHER revealed to HIM. As I write this, I know I do not measure up. Our only hope for measuring up is through our relationship with HIM as HE transforms or sanctifies us as we journey with HIM.

Praying in the name of JESUS takes on a new meaning. Praying in the name of JESUS gives believers access to GOD, the power of answered prayer comes from our relationship. Why? Because when we are in the right relationship with GOD, we will only ask for what GOD wants done.

Pray Persistently - Matthew 15:21-28 and Luke 18:1-8 - February 8, 2009

Sunday School Lesson – Pray Persistently – February 8, 2009

This is lesson two (2) in our series entitled “How to Pray With Power.”

Our scripture is Matthew 15:21-28; Luke 18:1-8.

If we focus on the titles of these studies, believers can get the impression that there are ways we can manipulate GOD to get what we ask for. Then when we try all the methods we know and they fail, we become discouraged with GOD. We must keep in mind that prayer is communicating with GOD and communication is both speaking and listening. Understanding what has been communicated is part of responding to what has been communicated.

Our scripture in today’s study could give some believers the idea that repetition is the way to get GOD to grant their requests. I contend that when GOD is delaying, there is a good reason. Persistence shows that our request is important to us and allows us to reexamine the request and the basis for our request each time we ask. Is there anything that is in our lives that needs to be changed or confessed that may be hindering a response from GOD – un-confessed sin, bad attitude, selfish, vindictive and many other issues? There may be some things in our lives that need to be worked upon first. It may be that GOD has HIS own plan and timing to deal with your request.

I remember the time I was looking for a business for my son to go into. I responded to an ad in the newspaper. No response. I responded a second time. No response. Yet the ad continued to be in the newspaper. My thought, “Satan is trying to block this.” So I go to the newspaper office and talk to the lady at the desk. She said, “Oh I know these people and I will get your interest in their business to them.” BIG MISTAKE!!! Looking back, yes, I was praying for the right business opportunity and GOD was blocking the business I was going after. But I took matters into my own hands and it was not a good business venture.

Let’s read Matthew 15:21-28:

A Gentile Mother’s Faith

21 When Jesus left there, He withdrew to the area of Tyre and Sidon. 22 Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came and kept crying out,[13] Other mss read and cried out to Him “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is cruelly tormented by a demon.” 23 Yet He did not say a word to her. So His disciples approached Him and urged Him, “Send her away because she cries out after us.”[14] Lit she is yelling behind us or after us 24 He replied, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” 25 But she came, knelt before Him, and said, “Lord, help me!” 26 He answered, “It isn’t right to take the children’s bread and throw it to their dogs.” 27 “Yes, Lord,” she said, “yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table!” 28 Then Jesus replied to her, “Woman, your faith is great. Let it be done for you as you want.” And from that moment[15] Lit hour her daughter was cured.

JESUS enters Gentile territory. As we read this account of JESUS and the Gentile woman it seems that JESUS is being very rude and ignores this lady. She has a real concern for her daughter and she seeks help from JESUS. It is important that she was identified as a “Canaanite” because as a class of people, Jews despised Canaanites.

There are several things at work in this account. (1) The woman is a Gentile, in particular a “Canaanite.” This is her country and JESUS is a visitor. Was she seeking help for her daughter to test JESUS and HIS ability or did she truly recognize HIM as the Messiah? (2) The attitude of HIS disciples. Was JESUS attempting to let HIS disciples reveal their hearts, prejudice or attitude? (3) JESUS never said or did anything unless the FATHER permitted HIM to do it. Was this a test for JESUS to be obedient and wait for the moment to respond according to the will of the FATHER?

We do not know but these questions give us some things to ponder:

The Jews in general were prejudiced against Gentiles and referred to them as dogs, household pets. Do we harbor prejudice in our hearts against others of a different race, lower socio-economic background, different educational background and the list goes on?

Do we wait upon the LORD to guide us or do we take matters into our own hands. Just as JESUS may have waited upon the right moment to respond, there may be times when we also need to wait upon the LORD.

We see from the scripture this lady was persistent and she was sincere in her request. She acknowledged JESUS as LORD when she used the term “Son of David.” This was a term for the promised “Messiah.” Had she heard the gospel being preached and made a profession of faith in CHRIST as her SAVIOR or had she heard the term and was repeating it? Did JESUS use this situation to test the genuineness of her faith?

The disciples wanted to send her away, which appears harsh except for the fact that the word used for “send” carried the idea of giving her what she wanted and then she would leave. Was JESUS using this as a teaching moment to reveal the true heart of his disciples and the true heart of this Gentile woman?

JESUS’ first spoken words to the woman are that HE was sent to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. The word used for “sent” was related to HIS mission. HE was sent by GOD, HIS FATHER. The woman shows her faith and confidence in HIM by kneeling before HIM in an attitude of worship.

When GOD seemingly rejects our request, how do we respond? Do we sulk and rail against GOD? Do we worship HIM regardless of HIS response?

The woman responded with worship and confidence that HE could help her. JESUS responded with a statement, “It isn’t right to take the children’s bread and throw it to their dogs.” The woman’s response indicated that she understood what HE was saying but she was not discouraged. She picked up on HIS statement comparing Gentiles to dogs and responded that even a household pet could benefit from the crumbs that fell from the masters table to the floor. JESUS knew the woman’s faith was founded in HIM and not hype or here say.

HIS disciples were watching and listening to this dialogue. We know from the scripture that they wanted JESUS to help her so she would leave. JESUS knew the depth of the woman’s faith but HIS disciples needed to see the depth of her faith. In particular, they needed to see the depth of a despised Canaanite woman’s faith. JESUS said let it be done “as you want.” Her faith was founded in HIM and the daughter was healed as we learn from Mark 7:30. This confirmed her faith in JESUS. She knew what she had been told or heard about JESUS was true. HE is the promised Messiah.

Mark 7:30:

30 When she went back to her home, she found her child lying on the bed, and the demon was gone.

Let’s read Luke 18:1-5:

The Parable of the Persistent Widow

1 He then told them a parable on the need for them to pray always and not become discouraged: 2 “There was a judge in one town who didn’t fear God or respect man. 3 And a widow in that town kept coming to him, saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 “For a while he was unwilling, but later he said to himself, ‘Even though I don’t fear God or respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps pestering me,[1] Lit widow causes me trouble I will give her justice, so she doesn’t wear me out[2] Or doesn’t give me a black eye, or doesn’t ruin my reputation by her persistent coming.’ ”
6 Then the Lord said, “Listen to what the unjust judge says. 7 Will not God grant justice to His elect who cry out to Him day and night? Will He delay [to help]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. them?[3] Or Will He put up with them? 8 I tell you that He will swiftly grant them justice. Nevertheless, when the • Son of Man comes, will He find that faith[4] Or faith, or that kind of faith, or any faith, or the faith, or faithfulness; the faith that persists in prayer for God’s vindication on earth?”

JESUS was teaching HIS disciples about persistent praying during times of discouragement. JESUS knew a time was fast approaching when they would be discouraged. HE told them a parable which is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.

In JESUS’ day widows were vulnerable to judges and people with power. The judge in this story does not respect GOD or man. He could not be influenced. She needed for him to make a decision in her behalf. He ignored her but she was persistent. As a result of her persistence, the judge ruled in her favor.

The point being, if an earthly judge who could not be influenced was influenced by the widow’s persistence, how much more will GOD listen to your requests and give you a response. Here we have to be careful. Persistence in prayer is praying as you journey through life. Pray about all things and continue to pray even when it seems your prayers are not being answered.

There may be a reason your prayers are not being answered. You may need to grow or there are other dynamics at work to being about the desired result.
Why is there a delay when we pray? The Book of Daniel gives us a clue.

Daniel 10:10-14:

Angelic Conflict – Daniel had prayed but there was a delay.

10 Suddenly, a hand touched me and raised me to my hands and knees. 11 He said to me, “Daniel, you are a man treasured [by God]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. .[11] Dn 9:23; 10:19 Understand the words that I’m saying to you. Stand on your feet,[12] Dn 8:18 for I have now been sent to you.” After he said this to me, I stood trembling. 12 “Don’t be afraid, Daniel,” he said to me, “for from the first day that you purposed to understand and to humble yourself before your God, your prayers were heard. I have come because of your prayers.[13] Dn 9:23 13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia opposed me for 21 days. Then Michael,[14] Dn 12:1; Jd 9; Rv 12:7 one of the chief princes, came to help me after I had been left there with the kings of Persia.[15] Dn 7:17; 8:21 14 Now I have come to help you understand what will happen to your people in the last days,[16] Dn 2:28 for the vision refers to those days.”

We live in a world that is also surrounded by a spirit world. Paul tells us about it in
Ephesians 6:10-13:

10 Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by His vast strength. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the tactics[10] Or schemes, or tricks of the Devil. 12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens.[11] Eph 1:3,20; 2:6; 3:10 13 This is why you must take up the full armor[12] 1 Th 5:8 of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand.

This is a good reason to stay in an attitude of prayer. We belong to GOD. We are HIS children. Our citizenship is heaven not earth thus we live in enemy territory. Prayer will sustain us as we journey through this earthly life. There will be times we will be discouraged but JESUS tells us to PRAY. Be persistent in prayer. Not with vain repetition but in confidence that GOD hears us and will respond and come to our aid. Persistent prayer keeps our minds and hearts focused upon HIM. HE is the only hope, strength, power and protection we have. Do not give up on HIM.

JESUS ended the parable by asking a question. Will believers be found steadfast, faithful and persistent in prayer when HE returns? That question is as important today as it was the day JESUS uttered these words.

Our world is in a mess. It is vital that all believers pray during these times.

Another consideration for persistent prayer is fasting.

Let’s read Matthew 17:

A Boy is healed

14 And when they had come to the multitude, a man came to Him, kneeling down to Him and saying, 15 "Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and suffers severely; for he often falls into the fire and often into the water. 16 "So I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not cure him." 17 Then Jesus answered and said, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him here to Me." 18 And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of him; and the child was cured from that very hour. 19 Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, "Why could we not cast it out?" 20 So Jesus said to them, "Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you. 21 "However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting."

Before JESUS began HIS earthly ministry we see in Matthew 4:1-2 that JESUS was led into the wilderness and HE fasted:

1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the Devil. 2 After He had fasted 40 days and 40 nights, He was hungry.

JESUS fasted to prepare HIM for HIS ministry. After fasting HE was tempted and tested. JESUS was led by the Spirit.

Fasting, in my opinion, is persistence, a time to focus, communicate, seek, prepare, trust, expect, hope and listen. We have to be careful not to fast for the purpose of manipulating GOD but fast and pray out of earnestly seeking GOD’S will, intervention and help. Often GOD leads believers to fast and pray. I personally believe GOD will most often lead believers to fast as they seek a solution versus believers deciding to use fasting as a method to approach GOD. Believers often want the easy way or a formula to guarantee success. So we like certain steps to take when we pray to ensure that our prayers are being heard and GOD will grant what we want. We must keep in mind it is all about our heart.

Believers may decide to devote themselves to fasting and prayer to fellowship with GOD and to seek HIS guidance. We do not fast to force a solution but fasting helps believers to focus upon GOD WHO is the solution. Fasting can be a time of self examination prompted by the HOLY SPIRIT to identify any un-confessed sin, wrong motive, wrong purpose, wrong attitude or any barrier hindering a believer’s prayer or relationship with the FATHER. We may need to pray to determine how GOD wants us to pray.

I am reminded of a missionary friend who was ill from a kidney problem. She was in the hospital in a foreign land. She asked a local pastor to pray for her. He said he would ask the church to pray for her. He came back to her and said the LORD had instructed the church to fast and pray for her. They did and she was healed.

When the church fasted they consumed a little orange juice that day. The point to fasting is not the denial of food or drink but it is the intensity and devotion to the petition to GOD such that food or drink is not as important or a concern. Diabetics and other disorders may dictate that a believer needs to consume food and drink. Again the point of fasting is that the situation for prayer is dire and a believer is coming to GOD with such focus of purpose that food and drink becomes secondary. It is not to manipulate GOD. It is all about the heart regarding a situation. It does not mean that a believer will get the answer he or she is requesting.

I am reminded of King David when he committed adultery with Bathsheba and she conceived a child. The baby was born but the baby became ill. David fasted and prayed. The baby died. Just because we fast and pray does not guarantee that GOD will grant our request. But when HIS response is clear, then we know we have done all we could do. When the baby died, David knew he had done all he could but was prepared to accept GOD’S will and purpose in the matter. 2 Samuel captured this event in David and Bathsheba’s lives.

2 Samuel 12:15-23:

The Death of Bathsheba’s Son

The Lord struck the baby that Uriah’s wife had borne to David, and he became ill. 16 David pleaded with God for the boy. He fasted, went [home]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. , and spent the night lying on the ground. 17 The elders of his house stood beside him to get him up from the ground, but he was unwilling and would not eat anything with them. 18 On the seventh day the baby died. But David’s servants were afraid to tell him the baby was dead. They said, “Look, while the baby was alive, we spoke to him, and he wouldn’t listen to us. So how can we tell him the baby is dead? He may do something desperate.” 19 When David saw that his servants were whispering to each other, he guessed that the baby was dead. So he asked his servants, “Is the baby dead?” “He is dead,” they replied. 20 Then David got up from the ground. He washed, anointed himself, changed his clothes, went to the Lord’s house, and worshiped. Then he went home and requested [something to eat]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. . So they served him food, and he ate. 21 His servants asked him, “What did you just do? While the baby was alive, you fasted and wept, but when he died, you got up and ate food.” 22 He answered, “While the baby was alive, I fasted and wept because I thought, ‘Who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let him live.’ 23 But now that he is dead, why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I’ll go to him, but he will never return to me.”

The Bible tells us in Romans 8:26-27 when we do not know how to pray the HOLY SPIRIT can come along beside us and help us to pray:

26 Likewise the Spirit (HOLY SPIRIT) also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Believers have the HOLY SPIRIT come along beside them when they pray to make intercession for them. There are times when we just do not know how to pray. When we pray do we really believe that GOD will answer or do we hope HE will answer? Here we also must be careful. GOD’S answer may be yes, no or wait.

In last week’s lesson we talked about being honest with GOD as foundational to our prayer life and our walk with HIM. It is all about our relationship with GOD. Do we trust HIM and have confidence in HIM? Can we accept a no answer? I do not like a no answer or even a wait answer, yet they are answers.

HIS desire is for believers to trust HIM completely and confidently, however, without the right relationship with HIM it is difficult for believers to accept the sovereignty of GOD.

FATHER I need your help to pray. Teach me to pray in confidence and power to obediently serve YOU. I am not on an ego trip to serve myself or to draw attention to me but it all about YOU and YOUR plan and YOUR purpose. Help me to build the relationship with YOU that I need to be in routine communication with YOU as I journey through life. I desire for my pray life to be as necessary and as natural to me as it is for me to breath. AMEN