Do You Have a Sentimental Interest in Prayer?

by | Dec 17, 2016 | Oswald Chambers

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The reason many of us leave off praying and become hard towards God is because we have only a sentimental interest in prayer. It sounds right to say that we pray; we read books on prayer, which tell us that prayer is beneficial, that our minds are quieted, and our souls uplifted when we pray; but Isaiah implies that God is amazed at such thoughts.

We hurl our own petitions at God’s throne and dictate to Him as to what we wish Him to do. Are we so worshipping God that we rouse ourselves up to lay hold on Him so that we may be brought into contact with His mind about the ones for whom we pray? Are we living a holy relationship with God? Get into the real work of intercession, and remember it is a work that taxes every power; but a work which has no snare. Preaching the gospel has a snare; intercessory prayer has none.
Oswald Chambers

The Word and Prayer–Day 2 of a Week on Prayer With Andrew Murray

by | Dec 13, 2016 | andrew murray

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Prayer and the Word are inseparable and should always go together. In His Word God speaks to me, and in prayer I speak to God. Through the Word the Holy Spirit shows me who God is. The Word also teaches me how sinful I am. It reveals to me all the wonders that God will do for me, and the strength He will give me to do to His will. The Word teaches me how to pray—with strong desire, a firm faith, and constant perseverance. The Word teaches me not only who I am, but who I may become. Above all it reminds me that Chris is the great intercessor and He allows me to pray in His name.

Learn to renew your strength each day in God’s Word and pray according to His will. Do you think it’s impossible for you to be obedient? It may be impossible to you, but not to God. He has promised to “put My Spirit in you so you will obey My laws.” Pray and mediate to these words.

Andrew Murray