April 30, 2019

April 30

Running with Jesus

Luke 19:45-46  And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought; Saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house of prayer: but ye have made it a den of thieves.

      Jesus went straight to the temple where God's business was! One of the first things He did before preparing to teach was address the courtyard! Due to animal sacrifices, people had to travel on foot, camels, and donkeys, the merchants had set up places for the animals to be bought for their sacrifices. They began to sell animals with spots and put extra weights on the scales for overcharging and this was done just outside the Holy place and the Holy of Holy place where the people met with God! We look and say how could  they do this! Watch out don't judge too quickly! God's house is to be a house of prayer!

     What is prayer, communication with God! How much communication was going on with these religious people! Not much because it would have been reflected in their behaviors and life styles! 

      If we call a prayer meeting only a few show up. How many of us really pray before and about worship on Sunday! Do you lift up your Pastor in prayer? If we could all hear all the conversations and praying that is going on as we arise in the morning, what would we be hearing!   What is the first thought you had when you woke up today? "Oh, do I have to get up?" or "Good Morning Father, good morning Holy Spirit?"   This changed my life and attitude when Charles Stanley shared this in a message. Before he puts a foot to the floor He puts his whole armor on and declares he is a child of God! What an attitude adjustment and a way to start your day with prayer! 

     It was when I answered the call to get up early to pray, my life began to take a major turn!! I let circumstance run and control my thoughts but when I turned my thoughts into prayer time, my life began to turn. God gave me three wonderful prayer partners on call with me 24 hours a day! We are the temple of God now. He came to dwell in our hearts unfortunately we are letting merchant, thieves and robbers control our courtyards. You say no, I say yes! Think right now where were your thoughts when you woke up this morning? 

      Prayer being conversing with God, we should be talking with Him all day! Prayer is being aware you are in the presence of Jehovah all day. You can pray for anyone anytime, ask for guidance with the work of your hands, and will keep you when you have confrontations to stay under control! 

Father, help us realize prayer is sacred and holy. Help us to keep ourselves for You! Make us a house of prayer where we can commune with our Holy God! Father, I know You will not speak to an unholy vessel! Show and teach us how important prayers are to the runner’s survival! It is our lifeline for living!

Tomorrow: Heroes!

Judy Hollaway

Originally penned 2015