October 15th - Prayer Does Not Change God's Will for Us

I have said this before but it is on my mind again this morning. Biblical FAITH is not a commodity that we trade to God for stuff we ask for in prayer. Biblical faith is a lifestyle of confident dependence on the promises of God as directly expressed in His Word. The writer of Hebrews defined it as follows…

“Now faith is an assumption of what is being expected, a conviction concerning matters which are not being observed.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Our effort should be to determine what God has clearly promised, and have FAITH in those promises. 

Some of the promises of God are negative such as…

"It is necessary to pass through many troubles on our way into the kingdom of God." (Acts 14:22)

But beyond those troubles rests the promise of Jesus himself…

Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me...I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am." (John 14:1-3)

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (John 14:22)

My prayers and faith are of utmost importance to me, and I pray about everything, mostly for the health and welfare of my family. I have learned from God's Word to give the cares and worries of life TO GOD in prayer so I can find peace and get some sleep…

“Don't worry about anything Robert; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you think you need, and thank Him for all He has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your heart and mind so just keep trying to live the best you can.” (Robert’s Own Paraphrase of Philippians 4:6-7)

As we near the time of God to fulfill His promise to send Jesus back to earth, troubles in the world will increase, so be prepared as best you can and cast those troubles ON HIM - He cares about you!

"Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7)

As we watch the events transpiring in Israel we can have FAITH in the LORD's promise to them...

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)