Some thoughts as we prepare for “Ten Days of Prayer” between May 14th – 24th

The men and women who are identified in Hebrews 11 (commonly known as the “Great Hall Of Faith”) – understood God’s will for their lives and were willing participants. In short, they were process-oriented, rather than product-oriented!

What does that mean? Below are seven important priorities that are to define our life. I’d encourage you during our time of prayer together as a church family to go over this list in meditation and prayer while looking up these passages. The following points reflect the process of walking in God’s will…

1) Loving the Lord with all your heart (Mark 10:30-31; Rev. 2:4-5; Isaiah 6).
2) Faithfully obeying God’s Word (John 8:31-32; John 17:17; John 14:15).
3) Serving others with a “foot-washing” heart (Eph. 4:1-2; 5:1-2; John 13:14-17).
4) Believing, what we believe sincerely (Hebrews 11:6; Romans 8:28; John 3:16; Romans 4:17-22).
5) Praying with passion and dependence on Christ (Luke 3:21-22; Luke 6:12-13; John 11:41-42; John 17)
6) Living a pure and holy life in this sensual world (1 Thess. 4:4-7; Romans 12:1-2; I John 2:15-17).
7) Manifesting a positive and supportive attitude in the midst of difficulties (Phil. 4:4-7; 13; Romans 4:17-22).

Perspective …

1) The above values are all valuable in and of themselves.
2) With regard to productivity and impacting for Christ in a generation: keep in mind that the Holy Spirit works in and through willing and available people who remain faithful to the right values.
3) Do your best and commit the rest to the Holy Spirit because ultimately it is His work.
4) Whether your efforts are measurable in this lifetime or not, remember – faithfulness is always seen by God, weighed by God and rewarded by God — and glorifies God!

(Picture taken atop the Mt of Olives overlooking Jerusalem. Thank you Mark and Lisa Ludwig for sending me this picture!)