Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 78:9-20 Luke 9:62


Always Faithful


Read Psalm 78:9-20

The children of Ephraim mentioned in Psalm 78 failed the Lord, and they failed their fellow Israelites when their help was badly needed. "The children of Ephraim, being armed and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle. They did not keep the covenant of God; they refused to walk in His law, and forgot His works and His wonders that He had shown them" (vv. 9-11).

What a tragedy it is when people fail in their warfare. Jesus warned us about those who look back and do not fulfill the will of God (Luke 9:62). If we are looking back, we cannot plow ahead. And if we look back, we cannot fight as we ought. Yes, there is a spiritual battle going on, and we need every soldier. But something was wrong with these warriors. They were unfaithful. Even though they were armed, they turned back in the day of battle.

Something was wrong with their walk. "They did not keep the covenant of God; they refused to walk in His law" (v. 10). That's where failure always starts. God wanted them to walk in His law that He might help them win the battle, but they would not obey Him.

Finally, they forgot what God had done for them. "And forgot His works and His wonders that He had shown them" (v. 11). Can you imagine forgetting a miracle? If a miracle took place in your life today, you would talk about it until the day the Lord called you home. You'd call a press conference! Think of the miracles God did for His people. But they forgot them. The Ephraimites were undependable on the battlefield because they forgot what He had done for them. They turned against the law of God, and they turned from the works of the Lord. Consequently, they were unable to help in His work.


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Unfaithfulness is common in people. But not so with God. Faithfulness is part of His character. This truth ought to encourage you if you know the Lord. Be faithful in your walk with Him. Remember His works and be a faithful soldier in your battle for Him.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 78:21-33


Futility and Fear


Read Psalm 78:21-33

The history of Israel in the Old Testament is really the history of all Christians. Like Israel, we have been redeemed through the blood of the Lamb. And like the people of Israel, we are heading for the Promised Land.

What is the one thing you need most on the journey from earth to heaven? Love? Yes, that's important. Hope? That's important, too. But I think faith is needed most. The one thing you must do is trust God. That's what the psalmist talks about in this passage. The people would not believe in God and continued to sin. We see the consequence in verse 33: "Therefore their days He consumed in futility, and their years in fear." When the Israelites got to the edge of the Promised Land, they refused to go in. They were at Kadesh-Barnea and would not trust God to lead them. So they had to wander around for some 40 years in vanity and emptiness, struggling with problem after problem.

Unfortunately, many of God's people are betweeners--they are living between Egypt and Canaan. They have been delivered from bondage by the blood of the Lamb, but they have never entered into their inheritance. They are living between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. They believe that Jesus died on the cross, but they are not living in the power of His Resurrection.

Don't be a betweener today. Consider how God blessed the people of Israel. He sent them manna and fowl to feed them. He provided them with water. But also consider how God disciplined them because of their unbelief. In His patience, however, He finally brought them through. We are like the people of Israel. Our greatest need is to believe God. We don't live by explanations; we live by promises. Today, while you hear His voice, don't harden your heart.


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Unbelief leads to futility and fear. Perhaps you are a "betweener" today--refusing to trust God's leading. When Israel believed the promises of God, He blessed them. Trust Him, obey Him and believe Him, and His blessing will come!

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 78:34-39


Flattery Gets You Nowhere


Read Psalm 78:34-39

Flattery is not communication; it is manipulation. We flatter people because we want something from them. It's bad enough to flatter people, but it's even worse to flatter God. "Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth, and they lied to Him with their tongue; for their heart was not steadfast with Him, nor were they faithful in His covenant" (vv. 36,37).

How do we flatter God? First, when we praise Him but don't mean it. It is so easy to stand in church and sing songs of praise with our minds somewhere else and our hearts not in our singing. We are simply going through an empty ritual. We also flatter God when we make promises to Him that we don't intend to keep. We do this sometimes in our praying.

We flatter God a third way when we pray to Him but don't really seek His will. It's easy for us to go through routine prayers and make promises. "Dear Lord, today I'm going to witness," or, "Dear Lord, today I'm going to read my Bible," or, "Dear Lord, today I am not going to yield to that temptation." But in our hearts we have no intention of following through. We lie to God. So often the Israelites lied to Him. They brought sacrifices, hoping to buy God's blessing. They went through the ritual and the routine of worship, hoping that He would somehow deliver them. They were flattering Him--their hearts were not right with God.

What does it mean to have a heart right with God? It means we are honest and open with Him. We are sincere, not lying. We tell Him just how we feel and exactly what we're going through. That's what God wants. He wants us to walk in the light as He is in the light (I John 1:7), not trying to cover up or excuse our sins, but confessing them. To have our hearts right with the Lord, we must stop flattering God and always deal with Him in truth.


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God wants you to be open and honest with Him. Never flatter Him with dishonesty, insincerity or deception. One way to be honest in your relationship with God is to keep your heart clean. Confess your sins instead of trying to cover them. He knows your heart, so be truthful in your praying.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 78:40-53


Flawed Memory


Read Psalm 78:40-53

The older we get, the more we forget. This is especially true when it comes to our relationship with God.

The people of Israel often remembered what they should have forgotten and forgot what they should have remembered! "They did not remember His power: the day when He redeemed them from the enemy, when He worked His signs in Egypt, and His wonders in the field of Zoan" (vv. 42,43). How amazing. The Jews had seen God perform ten miracles on their behalf in Egypt. Moses even pointed out that this was the hand of the Lord, yet they forgot all about it. After they were delivered from Egypt and living in the desert, the first time they were thirsty, they complained. The first time they were hungry, they complained.

Their constant cry was, "Let's go back." What did they remember about Egypt? The bondage? The taskmasters? Being beaten and whipped? Carrying the heavy burdens? They didn't remember those things. They remembered the leeks and the onions and the garlic and the cucumbers. They remembered the things that satisfied their stomachs. They did not remember the spiritual victories that God had given, His deliverance or His guidance. He had fed and led them, protected and provided for them; and they forgot about it. The same is often true of us. We forget what God has done for us, and when we forget, we start to go backward.

Forgetfulness has consequences. "Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the Holy One of Israel" (v. 41). Imagine--feeble, unbelieving man limiting Almighty God! But that's what happens when we forget Him. Don't limit God in your life today. He has unlimited wisdom and unlimited power, and your life has unlimited potential in His hands. Don't turn back. Look ahead. Don't test Him. Trust Him and remember his mercies.


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The same God who worked miracle after miracle for Israel is the One who is working for you today. Don't live with a flawed memory. Meditate on God's faithfulness and goodness.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 78:54-64


Tempting God


Read Psalm 78:54-64

There is only one direction for Christians to travel--forward. We must not think back or look back or turn back. We must move ahead, out of the old life and into the new.

That's the picture of the Israelites. God delivered them from Egypt. He brought them into the Promised Land, yet when they got there, they failed Him. "Yet they tested and provoked the Most High God, and did not keep His testimonies, but turned back and acted unfaithfully like their fathers; they were turned aside like a deceitful bow. For they provoked Him to anger with their high places, and moved Him to jealousy with their carved images" (vv. 56-58). They ignored all of God's greatness. He defeated the other nations. He gave the Jews houses they did not build. They drank from wells they did not dig. They ate from trees they never cultivated. They ignored God's goodness, and then they deliberately tempted Him.

How do you tempt God? When you deliberately disobey Him and dare Him to do something. You are not walking in ignorance--you know what you are doing. To tempt God means to sin with your eyes wide open. This provokes Him.

The people of Israel even adopted the idolatrous worship of the people they had defeated! We do this today, too. How easy it is for us to accept the idols of this world, to trust in money and position, to trust in the words of men instead of the words of God. And the result? "He forsook the tabernacle" (v. 60). God moved out. He said, "If you don't want me, I'm leaving." As a consequence, the people of Israel went into captivity.

What a tragedy to enter into the blessing God has for us and get so confident and selfish we forget the One who gave us the blessing.


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Be careful never to place your trust in God's blessings rather than in God. Enjoy the Blesser--the God who gives and guides you--rather than the blessing.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 25:21 Psalms 78:65-72


From Servant to Ruler


Read Psalm 78:65-72

We know that David committed adultery and that he made a man drunk and had him murdered. In addition, he once took a census of the Israelites out of disobedience to God--70,000 people died as a result. But David is still a great man. God forgave him and used him in a wonderful way.

David was a man of humility. "He also chose David His servant, and took him from the sheepfolds; from following the ewes that had young He brought him, to shepherd Jacob His people, and Israel His inheritance" (vv. 70,71). David began as a servant, and God made him a ruler. That's always God's pattern. There are those who make themselves leaders, but God's blessing is not upon them. David had God's blessing because he was faithful in his job. That's what Jesus said in one of His parables. "Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord" (Matt. 25:21). If you want to be a leader, learn how to be a follower. If you want to be a ruler, learn how to be a servant, faithfully doing what God has called you to do.

David was a man of integrity. "So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart" (v. 72). Integrity means having one heart, whereas a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways (James 1:8). David's sole purpose was to serve the Lord.

David was a man of ability. He "guided them by the skillfulness of his hands" (v. 72). Integrity ties your heart and your hands together. Your heart serves the Lord, and your hands are busy for Him. We need people like that today. No amount of dedication can compensate for a lack of skill, but no amount of skill can compensate for a lack of dedication. We need both.


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David exhibited the traits of a true ruler--humility, integrity and ability. They also are required of you for faithful service. Where has God placed you for service? Are you a faithful leader or follower? He rewards His faithful servants. Dedicate yourself to the Lord today and serve Him faithfully.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 79:1-13


When All Seems Lost


Read Psalm 79:1-13

There are days when we look around and it seems as though the Enemy has won. That's the way Asaph felt when he wrote Psalm 79.

He looked around and saw defilement. "Oh God, the nations have come into Your inheritance; Your holy temple they have defiled; they have laid Jerusalem in heaps" (v. 1). Asaph refers to the destruction of the temple and the city of Jerusalem. We, too, can look around today and see defilement in people's minds and hearts.

Then Asaph saw death. "The dead bodies of Your servants they have given as food for the birds of the heavens.... Their blood they have shed like water all around Jerusalem" (vv. 2,3). Our world is basically a cemetery. The wages of sin is death. We see it wherever we look.

Asaph also saw derision. "We have become a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and derision to those who are around us" (v. 4). People today don't magnify the Lord; they laugh at Him. They laugh at the Church, at God's people. We are a derided people because so often it looks as though we are losing and they have won the battle.

Finally, Asaph saw the enemy devouring. "For they have devoured Jacob, and laid waste his dwelling place" (v. 7). Yes, the devouring, destroying hand of Satan was at work. But Asaph says, "Help us, O God of our salvation." Why? "For the glory of Your name; and deliver us" (v. 9). How? "And provide atonement for our sins, for Your name's sake!" Asaph isn't concerned so much about his own comfort as he is about God's glory. So he prays, "Help us."

God helps by purging us from our sins. In addition, verses 11 and 12 tell us that He will come and save us. How wonderful that day will be when Jesus Christ comes to deliver us! Meanwhile, in the world we see defilement, death, derision, destruction and devouring. Now is the time to cry and say, "O God, for the glory of Your name, help us do Your will."


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Satan is at work in the world, but one day God will be glorified, and He will deliver His people from this world. God promises to be with you and to be your Salvation. Rest on that promise.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 80:1-7


Restoration


Read Psalm 80:1-7

"Restore us, O God; cause Your face to shine, and we shall be saved" (v. 3). We find this prayer three times in Psalm 80. Christians ought to pray this every day.

We certainly ought to pray this in times of affliction. The people of Israel were going through the affliction of God. He was angry with them and had to chasten them. The psalmist says, "You are feeding us with the bread of tears. We are drinking our tears. We are a strife to our neighbors. Our enemies are laughing at us" (vv. 5,6). Asaph doesn't pray for the Lord to change his circumstances. Rather, he says, "Lord, restore us. We have wandered away. We are not what we ought to be. Turn us right again."

We also ought to pray Asaph's prayer in times of rebellion. God's people were rebelling against Him, and that's why He was chastening them. But in spite of their failures, in spite of their unbelief, God never changes. The psalmist prays, "O Lord God of hosts, how long will You be angry against the prayer of Your people?" (v. 4).

What was wrong with their prayers? They were praying selfishly for their own comfort and deliverance. They weren't thinking about the glory of God. But Asaph is different. He prays for their restoration. When you look at your failure, immediately look for God's favor and His salvation.


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There are times when you need God's restoration. Sometimes He afflicts you and chastens you because His glory is at stake--He wants you to glorify Him. Have you failed God? Do you need His restoration? Pray Asaph's prayer today from your heart.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 80:8-13


Bloom Where You're Planted


Read Psalm 80:8-13

One of the greatest tragedies in life is wasted opportunity--not making the most of what God has given us. We came into this world with certain abilities, and when God saved us, He gave us gifts and the grace to exercise those gifts to help others, to build our own lives and to glorify His name.

This is why God puts us through certain experiences. Asaph said, "You have brought a vine out of Egypt; you have cast out the nations, and planted it. You prepared room for it, and caused it to take deep root, and it filled the land" (vv. 8,9). That vine, of course, was the nation of Israel. God delivered Israel from Egypt and planted her like a luxurious vine in the land of Canaan. But soon He had to break that vine. He had to discipline His people. The vine was not producing the fruit God wanted it to produce.

God blesses us to make us a blessing. He planted the people of Israel in the land that they might, by their life and testimony, bear spiritual fruit, letting the Gentile nations know about the true and living God. He gave them an opportunity to show the other nations what He could do for those who would trust and obey Him. Instead, the vine became like all the other vines. The Israelites compromised and sinned. So God had to cut down His vine and discipline His people.

Remember, God has planted you where you are that you might be a blessing. He wants you to take deep root. He wants you to bear rich fruit. And if you will draw upon His spiritual power, He will enable you to be a blessing. Bloom where you are planted and bear fruit to the glory of God and the enrichment of others.


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God has blessed you with certain abilities so you may invest them in others and bring glory to Him. As you use your God-given talents, you glorify Him and bless others. Draw from God's spiritual resources and let Him use you to enrich others

Amen to my little sister........

Jesus smiles when your name is mentioned....and I smile as well. You are such a special young lady.

jesuschick~ thank you, you are too! :)

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference 1 Samuel 4:21 Hebrews 13:5 Psalms 80:14-19


Revive Us Again


Read Psalm 80:14-19

Look at two important words in Psalm 80. One is return. "Return, we beseech You, O God of hosts; look down from heaven and see, and visit this vine" (v. 14). The other word is revive. "Then we will not turn back from You; revive us, and we will call upon Your name" (v. 18).

God had departed from His people. He had planted this vine, the nation of Israel, in the land of Canaan. He had cast out the other nations to make room for Israel. The vine took root and began to bear fruit. But the people of Israel began to sin against the Lord. Instead of being distinctively separate, they began to imitate the other nations and visit their altars and participate in their sacrifices. So God said, "If that's the way you want it, you can have it." God left His people. The word Ichabod means "the glory has departed" (I Sam. 4:21).

Jesus said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Heb. 13:5). God will never take away His presence, but He will take away His power and His blessing. If necessary, He will withhold that extra anointing He wants to give us. Verses 18 and 19 are a prayer for revival: "Revive us, and we will call upon Your name. Restore us, O Lord God of hosts; cause your face to shine, and we shall be saved!"


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God will never leave you, but there are times when He may need to withhold His power and blessing because of sin in your life. Are you in need of God's restoration? He hears the prayer of revival. Ask Him to clean your heart and then pray Asaph's prayer.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 81:1-16


What Might Have Been


Read Psalm 81:1-16

Life is made up of things that were, things that are and things that might have been. We find all three in Psalm 81.

First, we find the things that were (vv. 1-10). The psalmist talks about the God of Jacob and says, "Let's get our orchestra together. Let's get our trumpets and let's sing to the Lord. He gave us a statute. He delivered us from Egypt." He reflects on and rejoices in the past. But the things that were did not last long, because the people rebelled against the Lord.

Next, we see the things that are. "But My people would not heed My voice, and Israel would have none of Me. So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart, to walk in their own counsels" (vv. 11,12). The things that were brought rejoicing. The things that are spoke of rebellion. The people of God rebelled against Him. They wouldn't listen to Him, call upon Him or obey His Word. So they lost all that He had for them.

Finally, we see the things that might have been (vv.13-16). "Oh, that My people would listen to Me, that Israel would walk in My ways! I would soon subdue their enemies, and turn my hand against their adversaries. The haters of the Lord would pretend submission to Him, but their fate would endure forever. He would have fed them also with the finest of wheat; and with honey from the rock I would have satisfied you." What might have been? Victory, satisfaction, joy, the finest wheat and honey out of the rock.

Don't rebel against God and thus miss the blessings He wants to give you.



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Dwelling on past failures only turns life into regret. If you have failed the Lord, come back to Him and pray for forgiveness. Dedicate yourself to Him and start experiencing those things that might have been. God has the best plan for you.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 82:1-8


The Ultimate Judge


Read Psalm 82:1-8

When we watch the news on television or read it in a magazine or newspaper, we may think that the unjust are winning and the just are losing. We get the same idea when we read Psalm 82. But this psalm also says that God is part of the judicial system.

God attends court. "God stands in the congregation of the mighty; He judges among the gods" (v. 1). The word gods means "the judges." When the judges get together in court, God is there whether they recognize Him or not.

God admonishes the judges. "How long will you judge unjustly, and show partiality to the wicked?" (v. 2). He tells them what to do: "Defend the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy; free them from the hand of the wicked" (vv. 3,4).

God judges the judges. The judges think they are trying others, but God is trying them. "They do not know, nor do they understand; they walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are unstable" (v. 5). When the law is not being upheld, all the nations fall apart. "I said, 'You are gods, and all of you are children of the Most High. But you shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes"' (vv. 6,7). The psalmist believes that God will one day make everything right. "Arise, O God, judge the earth; for You shall inherit all nations" (v. 8).

Yes, there is going to be injustice in this world until Jesus comes. But when the King of kings is reigning and the Lord of lords is supremely in control, we finally will have justice in this world.


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In spite of the world's injustice, God is in control, and He sees all that happens. Until Jesus comes to reign, we must live here. In the meantime, trust Him, obey Him and do His will.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 83:1-18


Enemies of the King


Read Psalm 83:1-18

Christians are strangers living in enemy territory. Our enemies are those who do not love Jesus Christ, His Church or His Word. What shall we do about our enemies, who also are God's enemies? Follow the example of the psalmist and turn them over to the Lord. "For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; and those who hate You have lifted up their head" (v. 2). He refers to Israel's enemies--the Edomites, the Ishmaelites, the Moabites and other heathen nations around her. Through the centuries Israel has had many enemies, and God has defeated them. But He has blessed those nations that have blessed Israel.

What is God going to do about our enemies? The psalmist says He will judge them, though we don't know where or when. He paints some vivid pictures. "O my God, make them like the whirling dust" (v. 13). One translation says "like a wheel of whirling dust." When a wheel goes down a dusty road, it stirs up dust. The enemies are nothing but dirt, like whirling dust that blows away, "like the chaff before the wind! As the fire burns the woods, and as the flame sets the mountains on fire" (vv. 13,14). One day God's fire of judgment is going to sweep through them, and they will be destroyed. Verse 15 compares this to a storm: "So pursue them with Your tempest, and frighten them with Your storm."

Why does God judge His enemies? "That men may know that You, whose name alone is the Lord, are the Most High over all the earth" (v. 18). God is the King. Turn your enemies over to Him. He knows how to take care of them.


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For centuries God has dealt with the enemies of Israel. He takes an active part in dealing with your enemies, too. When they surround you, turn them over to the Lord and rest in His care.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 84:1-4


Desiring God


Read Psalm 84:1-4

Psalm 84 expresses the thoughts of a man who wants to go to Jerusalem for a feast but cannot. We do not know why. Perhaps he is ill, or there is some problem at home. He writes, "How lovely is Your tabernacle, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God" (vv. 1,2).

His great desire was not to go to Jerusalem solely to observe a holy day. Instead, he wanted to go to the temple and meet God. "Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young" (v. 3). In other words, God's house is to his soul what a nest is to a swallow--a place of rest and security and satisfaction. The psalmist even envies the priests. "Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they will still be praising You" (v. 4). Outsiders were not allowed to live there, and they were limited in where they could go inside. Only the priests could enter the Holy of Holies.

We have the privilege of fellowshipping with God without going through a priest. Do you have a great desire to worship Him today? Or are you happy for an excuse to stay home from God's house?


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If you have been saved by God's grace, you ought to have a strong desire to worship Him and fellowship with Him. You have the privilege of attending God's house and worshiping with His people. Do you desire to be with them? Does your heart cry out for the living God?

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 84:5-7


The Road to Zion


Read Psalm 84:5-7

At the time this psalm was written, every Jewish man was required to go to Jerusalem to celebrate the feast three times a year. Whole villages would make their pilgrimage together, singing along the way. "Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, whose heart is set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a spring; the rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; every one of them appears before God in Zion" (vv. 5-7).

As they traveled down the road, the men looked in three different directions. First, they looked within (v. 5). "Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, whose heart is set on pilgrimage," or, "in whose heart are the highways to Zion." Everyone has a road map in his heart that takes him where he really wants to go. Look within yourself today. What kind of road map do you have? Where does it lead? Have you limited yourself, or are you entering into all the fullness of walking with the Lord?

They looked back (v. 6). They passed through a valley, Baca, which means "weeping." As they passed through Baca, they left behind a blessing for someone else. Sometimes on our pilgrimage we go through the valley of weeping. When you go through it, do you leave behind a blessing for somebody else? Or do you expect others to give you a blessing?

Then they looked ahead. "They go from strength to strength; every one of them appears before God in Zion" (v. 7). They were looking forward to meeting with the living God as they went to celebrate the feast. We, too, go from strength to strength. You may look ahead and say, "I'll never make it." But you will. He gives you the strength to keep going as you make your pilgrimage.


* * *
You, too, look in three directions in your pilgrimage. It is often a difficult journey, but God will give you the strength to continue and progress. In your heart you have a road map to Zion. Follow it, and one day you will meet the living God face to face.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference 1 Peter 5:10 Psalms 84:8-12


Grace and Glory


Read Psalm 84:8-12

The psalmist yearns to go to the courts of the Lord. But as he meditates on Him, he realizes he can have God's blessing right where he is. He does not have to go to the temple. "The Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly" (v. 11).

Grace--that's how the spiritual journey begins. We are saved by God's grace. We trust Jesus, and in grace God saves us. Glory--that's how it ends. One day we will be in heaven and share the glory of the Lord forever.

But between grace and glory, life can be rather difficult. We read in I Peter 5:10 that the "God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, [will] perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you." Whatever begins with grace leads to glory, but how do we make the journey between grace and glory? "For the Lord God is a sun and shield" (v. 11). He is a sun. That's provision and sufficiency. He is a shield. That's protection and security. We start the journey with grace; we continue the journey trusting God's provision and protection; and we end the journey by entering into the glory of the Lord.

What does it mean to walk uprightly? It means walking in the light, obeying His word, loving Him and trusting Him.


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Psalm 84:11 is a great verse to claim for your pilgrim journey. Begin with God's grace and end in His glory. Along the way you have the promise of His provision and protection. Do you qualify for God's provisions for the journey? Determine always to walk uprightly by obeying the Word of God and trusting its promises.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 85:1-13


The Revival People


Read Psalm 85:1-13

"Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?" (v. 6). This prayer has been set to music in the song "Revive Us Again," and it's a prayer we need to pray.

Who needs revival? Unsaved people can't be revived because they never had life to begin with. The unsaved person is dead in trespasses and sins. But Christians, through faith in Jesus Christ, have been raised from the dead. We've been given eternal, abundant life. Unfortunately, sometimes we turn away from the Lord and lose that spiritual vibrancy. We don't lose our salvation, but we lose the joy of our salvation, its power and the overflowing blessings we give each other.

God's people are the revival people. We desperately need to be revived. The psalmist cries out to God for new life. Someone has said that our church services start at eleven o'clock sharp and end at twelve o'clock dull. How we need the breath of God to blow upon us! How we need His life to touch us!

What is the revival purpose? A. W. Tozer used to say, "It's difficult to get Christians to attend any meeting where God is the only center of attraction." We have to have entertainment, food and all sorts of distractions. But the psalmist wants God's people to rejoice in Him alone.


* * *
God's people should live with a vibrancy that comes from the joy of their salvation. Does your life still sparkle as it did when you came to know the Lord? Pray that He will revive the Church. And pray that your testimony will bless others and glorify the Lord.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 7:7 Jeremiah 33:3 James 4:2 Psalms 86:1-10


Encouragements to Pray


Read Psalm 86:1-10

"For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You" (v. 5). What a promise to claim today! Just two verses later the psalmist says, "In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me" (v. 7).

The psalmist gives a number of encouragements to pray. First, remember who God is. Never forget His attributes. The better we know Him, the better we are able to pray. What kind of God are we praying to? One who is good, merciful and ready to forgive. You may say, "I can't pray to God. My hands are dirty. My heart is dirty. I'm not what I ought to be." Then come to Him and say, "I know You are ready to forgive; You are abundant in mercy." And God will forgive you. He hears all who cry out to Him.

Second, remember what God does. "For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God" (v. 10). "Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know" (Jer. 33:3).

Third, remember what God promises. He promises to answer us. Jesus said, "Ask, and it will be given to you" (Matt. 7:7). "You do not have because you do not ask" (James 4:2).

Remember who God is, the kind of God to whom you are praying. Remember the great and wonderful things He does. He can do the impossible for you today. And remember, He promises to answer.


* * *
These are wonderful encouragements to pray. When you pray, keep them before you. Contemplate God's character. Remember what He has done in your life. Recount His faithfulness to you. And be sure to claim the promises of the Bible.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 6:24 John 7:17 James 1:8 Psalms 86:11-17


Mind, Heart and Will


Read Psalm 86:11-17

Here is a good prayer for you today. "Teach me Your way, O Lord; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name" (v. 11). The whole person is wrapped up in this prayer.

First, we see an open mind. "Teach me Your way; . . . I will walk in Your truth." Is your mind open to God's truth? Do you really want Him to teach you His way? He revealed His ways to Moses and to the Israelites. He will do the same for you also. We need people today who will say, "Lord, I have an open mind. I want you to show me Your way and truth."

But that's not enough. We need to have an obedient will. The psalmist makes a promise in verse 11: "Lord, if you show me your way, I will obey it." Jesus said, "If anyone wants to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority" (John 7:17).

Finally, we see a united heart. "Unite my heart to fear your name." A united heart is wholly fixed upon the Lord. A divided heart is dangerous. Jesus said, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon" (Matt. 6:24). James 1:8 says a double-minded man is unstable in all of his ways.

If you want God to guide and bless you today, follow the example of this prayer. Give to Him an open mind and say, "Teach me." Give to Him an obedient will and say, "I will do what you want me to do." And give to Him a united heart. Fear His name, and you'll end up praising Him, glorifying Him and enjoying His blessings.


* * *
Is your mind open to the truth of God's Word? Does your will respond to truth and obey it? Is your heart undivided, fixed upon the Lord? Today, dedicate your mind, heart and will to God.

As I prayed



For some of my brothers who I love very much and are lock up, these words came to me.



You have to know that God has his hand on you, your still here and reading this. Something that I want to tell you and I want you to listen to me. When you have nothing, know that God is up to something. God has a plan for you and soon you will know your purpose.

God gave you two eyes to see with and two ears to hear with use them to see and hear what God has for you. You have the power to fight those things that comes against your flesh….

You see Jesus didn’t die for nothing….

Always put God first….

You will be blessed like you have never been blessed before.

God loves you so much that he gave the life of his one and only son for you.

He will give you back everything the devil stole from you, you see the devil is a liar and a thief……..

Praise the Lord morning, noon, and night, praise him in the good times and the bad times and see what happens…..

You need to read Romans 12:1-3 and Isaiah 55:1-3 & 6-9 read it over and over.



You want a different life? You have to change your way of thinking and your thoughts. Your thoughts are not Gods thoughts. The way to change is through Gods word.

Remember one thing what ever your thoughts are your life is…….

There is hope, promise and power in Gods word…..

With him we are mighty and we can move mountains, without him we are nothing. There is power in the cross and the blood of Jesus…….

His love and mercy is all over you now, receive it. To God be the glory……..

Give your life to God and your life will be more peaceful…

God’s word is true and he will make your life new…..

You are a child of God………

Once you quit having pity parties and blaming all your bad on everyone in your life and realize it was your fault due to bad decisions and make the right decision and give all of you to the Lord it will be easier to see the light and live your life right.



LOVE

T

MARCH 16, 2005

PRAYER FOR AN INMATE





My Gracious and Loving Father,

I come to you right now in Prayer. I thank GOD that even though I have made many mistakes in my life, you are a God of forgiveness. Today I ask you to forgive me and I make a commitment to dedicate my life to do your will and follow your plan and purpose for me.



Father, I know you have forgiven me of all my wrongdoing, but I am having trouble forgiving myself. Help me God to understand that I can’t change what has already happened, but I can change what will happen in my future.



At this moment I surrender all my bitterness, loneliness, and my low self-esteem to you father. I forgive all those that have hurt me and forgive myself for my sins and mistakes of the past.



By your grace Lord, I will use this time of incarceration as a time of study, prayer, and personal commitment to you. Instead of allowing this time of my life to be the crushing blow of defeat, I will use it as a stepping-stone to higher accomplishment. I also ask you to prepare me to face society and assume responsibility when I am released as one who has learned and benefited from his mistakes. Most of all I thank you God for loving me and looking beyond my faults to see my needs.



In Jesus’ Name

Amen

jesuschick~ that was beautiful, thanks for sharing! I will pass this on to my pen pals!
Stay blessed sister!

Basking in the Sonshine
- August 04, 2005

No, I did not misspell "Sonshine". This is the type of warmth and
comfort that I get regardless of the season, situation, or circumstance. I
have a continued peace in knowing that even if I am ill or going through
hard times, the "Son" (Jesus) will still shine on me. That's shouting
news!

Many of us get so caught up in what, where, why, how and when, that we
lose sight of our true motivation and purpose. I get joy in knowing
that I can celebrate and there doesn't have to be a special occasion. I
can sing and dance without music. I can shout praises and I dont have to
be at church.

Make an appointment (and thats probably what you'll have to do) to go
outside, find a place to sit down, and look up at the trees as they
pictured across the sky. Look at the colors and record them in your mind.
Just sit quietly, and see if you can hear birds chirping. Think about
how peaceful that moment is. You may even hear children playing or
traffic in the distance.

If this is soothing for you, mentally record all that you see, hear and
feel. When you realize you must get back to reality, keep those images
and feelings in your mind and heart. Don't let the day end without
sharing them with someone special.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Philippians 3:20 Psalms 87:1-7


City of God


Read Psalm 87:1-7

Most of us have places in this world we love in special ways. It might be an old home or perhaps a school. It might even be a church or a place in that church building where God met you in a significant way. God also has a place He loves especially. "The Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob" (v. 2). The psalmist refers to the city of God.

Zion is important to Christians also. Of course, our citizenship is in the heavenly Zion (Phil. 3:20), where one day we shall walk the golden streets. But we can give thanks for Jerusalem, the earthly city of God.

First, our foundations are in Zion. This means the foundations of our spiritual life. The Word of God, the Bible, originated from the Jewish nation. The knowledge of the true God came from the Jewish nation. And the Son of God, the Savior of the world, came from the Jewish nation.

Second, our family is in Zion. The psalmist speaks about one who was born there. People born in Jerusalem are proud of their birthplace, just as we are proud of our birthplace. But Christians have been born from above. We have been born again spiritually because we trust Christ as our Savior.

Third, our fountains are in Zion. "All my springs are in you" (v. 7). The word springs means "fountains"--our refreshment, our strength, our spiritual power. They all come from our heavenly Zion.


* * *
Believers in Christ are citizens of heavenly Zion. Are you a citizen of the city of God? If not, why not trust Him as your Savior and begin your pilgrimage to Zion?

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Romans 8:28 Psalms 88:1-12


Holding On


Read Psalm 88:1-12

There are days when it's difficult to rejoice. Oh, we talk about having the joy of the Lord and walking in the sunshine of His countenance. We are grateful for days like that, but there are also difficult days. The author of Psalm 88 penned these words when he was having one of those difficult days. He tells us about his problems.

First, he is struggling with unanswered prayer. "O Lord, God of my salvation, I have cried out day and night before You. Let my prayer come before You; incline Your ear to my cry" (v. 1). This is not an unsaved man crying out to a God he doesn't worship. This is a true believer pleading with God for help. And so far, He hasn't done anything.

He also is coping with trouble and sickness. "For my soul is full of troubles, and my life draws near to the grave. I am counted with those who go down to the pit; I am like a man who has no strength.... You have put away my acquaintances far from me; You have made me an abomination to them; I am shut up, and I cannot get out" (vv. 3,4,8). Some scholars think that the psalmist had leprosy, since he was segregated from everyone else.

The foundations of his life seem to be slipping away, and the possibility of death looms before him. In his desolation, what does he do? He holds on to God's power, loving-kindness and faithfulness.

What do you do on difficult days? Hold on to all that God is and all that He does. God is still working for you. All things are still working together for good (Rom. 8:28). Don't turn away from Him. Wait. He will bring you out of your affliction.


* * *
Whenever you experience a difficult day, encourage yourself by focusing on God's character and His attributes--power, loving-kindness and faithfulness. Remember what He has done for you in the past. In spite of what you see around you, trust the Lord. He will see you through your affliction.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 88:13-18


Light in the Darkness


Read Psalm 88:13-18

When nothing seems to go right, when people are neglecting you and God seems to have forgotten you, don't stop praying. This troubled psalmist did not cease to pray. "Lord, I have called daily upon You; I have stretched out my hands to You" (v. 9). Even though the light is not shining, don't stop praying, because God will answer.

Start each day with the Lord. "But to You I have cried out, O Lord, and in the morning my prayer comes before You" (v. 13). Always begin your day with the Lord, and He will give you the strength to finish it.

Look to God alone. We have a tendency to trust circumstances, ourselves and other people. Not the psalmist. He said, "I'm going to look to God alone. I'm going to trust the Lord of my salvation."

Yes, there are those dark, dismal, disappointing days. But God is still on the throne. Trust Him to see you through.


* * *
How well do you fare when the days are dark? Follow the example of the psalmist. Start your day with God in prayer and draw strength from His Word. Keep your eyes on the Lord, not on your circumstances, and He will deliver you.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference 1 John 1:9 Psalms 89:1-10


Great is His Faithfulness


Read Psalm 89:1-10

Have you thought lately about the faithfulness of God? Too often we are prone to focus on our own faithfulness and our own faith. Our living a victorious Christian life indicates that we are trusting a faithful God who cannot fail, not that we are faithful to Him.

How should we respond to the faithfulness of God? First, sing of His faithfulness. "I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations" (v. 1). Are you praising God today for His faithfulness? When you find yourself unfaithful to the Lord, consider His faithfulness. After all, "He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9).

Second, share God's faithfulness with others. "With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations." In giving our testimonies, we sometimes brag about ourselves. I was in a meeting once where the leader said, "Let's give praise to the Lord, and let's be careful not to give praise to ourselves." The psalmist said, "I'm going to share the faithfulness of God--not what I have done, but what He has done; not what I am, but what He is."

Third, submit to His faithfulness. "God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be held in reverence by all those who are around Him" (v. 7). Our God is faithful.

Can we trust Him today? Yes, we can. Is His Word going to fail? No, not one word of all His promises has failed. Is His grace going to run out? No, He has vast riches of His grace. God is faithful in everything.


* * *
Have you learned to respond to God's faithfulness? Praise Him for His faithfulness, share it with others and submit to it. He can be trusted.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 89:11-29


The Joyful Sound


Read Psalm 89:11-29

"Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk, O Lord, in the light of Your countenance. In Your name they rejoice all day long, and in Your righteousness they are exalted" (vv. 15,16). That describes how God's people ought to be.

We should walk in joy. Throughout the year the people of Israel heard joyful sounds. The trumpets would call them to a feast or remind them of the faithfulness and goodness of God. The psalmist is talking here about that festal blowing of the trumpet. Today we might hear a joyful sound--the sound of the trumpet, the voice of the archangel--and meet the Lord. God's people should be walking in joy. Every day should be a joyful experience of anticipation, excitement and enrichment.

We should walk in the light. "But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (I John 1:7). When you walk in the light, you see things as they really are. You don't stumble or cause someone else to stumble.

We should walk in faith. "In Your name they rejoice all day long" (v. 16). Why? His name can be trusted. Those who know God's name know victory and blessing.

We should walk in the heights. "In Your righteousness they are exalted" (v. 16). There's not only excitement and enrichment in our life with God, we are also exalted, lifted high. This doesn't mean that we are glorified instead of God. It means that He lifts us up.

Keep your ears tuned. You might hear that joyful sound today.


* * *
Do others know you are a Christian by your life? If you walk with joy and in the light, you will bless others and glorify God. Do you find your walk with God enriching? Enjoy Him to the fullest. Let Him exalt you.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 24:35 Psalms 119:89 1 John 1:9 Psalms 89:30-37


Unbreakable Covenants


Read Psalm 89:30-37

There is one thing that God cannot do--He cannot lie. When He makes a covenant, He keeps it, and we can hold on to His Word forever. This is what God said concerning David and his family: "If his sons forsake My law and do not walk in My judgments, if they break My statutes and do not keep My commandments, then I will visit their transgression with the rod, and their iniquity with stripes. Nevertheless My lovingkindness I will not utterly take from him, nor allow My faithfulness to fail. My covenant I will not break, nor alter the word that has gone out of My lips" (vv. 30-34).

God is faithful to His Word. He's not going to alter what He has said. "Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven" (Ps. 119:89). "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away" (Matt. 24:35). God's Word is not going to change, but it should change us.

God is faithful to chasten. He said, "If David's descendants don't live as they ought to live, I'll chasten them. My promise won't fail even though they fail." Even if we are not faithful, God is still faithful. He will not deny His Word. He is faithful to discipline us when we need it.

God is faithful to forgive. When we ask Him for His forgiveness, He forgives our sins and cleanses us from all our unrighteousness (I John 1:9). I'm glad I don't have to figure out every day what God's attitude is toward me. He doesn't change; He is faithful.

* * *
Have you experienced God's faithfulness in your life lately? Trust His Word, submit to His chastening and ask His forgiveness.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 89:38-45


Down, Down, Down


Read Psalm 89:38-45

God did wonderful things for the people of Israel, and He gave them wonderful promises. We would expect the Israelites to be loyal followers of God, but they were not. They turned their back on Him and sinned, so God had to discipline them. This passage depicts His chastening.

What really happens when God disciplines His people? "You have renounced the covenant of Your servant; you have profaned his crown by casting it to the ground" (v. 39). God wants us to reign in life. Jesus Christ has made us kings and priests. But when God chastens us, He takes our crowns from us. Our authority is gone; the glory is gone; and the honor is gone. Instead of acting like kings, we live like slaves. When God chastened the Israelites, their crowns were cast down.

In verse 40 the walls were broken down. "You have broken down all his hedges; you have brought his strongholds to ruin." There is no security in what we build. God casts it down.

In verse 43 the soldiers were smitten down. "You have also turned back the edge of his sword, and have not sustained him in the battle." When we disobey the Lord, everything falls apart.

In verse 44 the glory ceased, and God cast down the king's throne.

Yet God will forgive. Don't lose your joy in the Lord. Let's live today with authority and security because we are walking with Him. If you find yourself down, look up. Ask Him to raise you up and restore you to victory again.


* * *
Sometimes God's discipline can be hard. Have you lost your joy in life because of His chastening? Regain the reign in your life. Look to God for forgiveness and restoration.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 89:46-52


A Few Reminders


Read Psalm 89:46-52

"How long, Lord? Will You hide Yourself forever? Will Your wrath burn like fire?" (v. 46). These questions come from the broken heart of a man who wondered why God's people were going through so much trouble. Several times we see the word remember in these verses. "Remember how short my time is; for what futility have You created all the children of men?" (v. 47). What could the psalmist possibly remind God about?

He reminds Him that life is short. God did not make us in vain. Sometimes we receive His grace in vain. Sometimes what He does for us is in vain. But that's our fault, not His. Life is short. That's good to remember the next time you are tempted to sin. Why waste time disobeying God?

Then he reminds God of His promises. "Lord, where are Your former lovingkindnesses, which You swore to David in Your truth?" (v. 49). This refers to the covenant God had made with David. It looked as though God had broken His promise. He doesn't break His promises, but He likes to have us remind Him of them.

Next, he reminds God of their reproach. "Remember, Lord, the reproach of Your servants--how I bear in my bosom the reproach of all the many peoples, with which Your enemies have reproached, O Lord" (vv. 50,51). Remember our reproach. Why? Because it detracts from the glory of God.

Let's remind ourselves that we are here to bring glory to His name. The psalmist ends on the mountains: "Blessed be the Lord forevermore! Amen and Amen" (v. 52). He starts with burdens and ends with blessing. He starts with sighing and ends with singing, because he lifts his broken heart to the Lord in prayer.


* * *
When you go through troubled times, remember God's promises and remind Him of them. He is faithful to His Word.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference 1 John 2:17 Psalms 90:1-6


Time and Eternity


Read Psalm 90:1-6

First there were sundials. Then came water clocks, hourglasses and mechanical clocks. Now we have digital clocks and watches that split time into hundredths of a second. Our culture certainly is concerned with time. That's why it's good to read what Moses says: "Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.... For a thousand years in Your sight are like yesterday when it is past, and as a watch in the night" (vv. 1,2,4).

It's good to contemplate God's eternity in the light of man's frailty. We are creatures of time, but God is eternal. He is our dwelling place from generation to generation. The eternity we face is in His hands.

The psalmist also tells us that God is faithful. From generation to generation, from everlasting to everlasting, He has been faithful, and He will continue to be faithful. He's the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He's the God of individuals, the God of different personalities. He's the One we can trust.

Let Him be God in your life today. When you abide in Him and live for His glory, you are partaking of the eternal. The Bible says, "He who does the will of God abides forever" (I John 2:17).


* * *
When you compare time with eternity, you gain a bit of God's perspective. You can incorporate eternal values into this life. You can partake of the eternal by allowing God into your life. Is He your dwelling place? Have you partaken of His faithfulness?

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Numbers 14 1 John 2:17 Psalms 90:7-11


Death: A Reason For Life


Read Psalm 90:7-11

Life expectancy in the United States is up to 75 years. That's good news; 25 years ago it was only 70 years. Perhaps it will keep going up, but in comparison to eternity, the human life span is short. That's why we read, "The days of our lives are seventy years; and if by reason of strength they are eighty years, yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away" (v. 10).

That sounds like a rather doleful statement, but it's true. The setting of Psalm 90 is found in the events recorded in Numbers 14. God had brought the Jews directly to Kadesh-Barnea. He said, "Now go in and possess the land." And they would not do it. They doubted God's promise and questioned His wisdom. They did not believe He would enable them to conquer the land. As a consequence, God said, "All right, everybody 20 years and older is going to die within the next 40 years." And that's what happened--the world's longest funeral march. For the next 40 years the nation wandered in the wilderness, while that older generation died. Then God took the younger generation on a whole new crusade, and they conquered the Promised Land.

The older people knew they were going to die before they got to the Promised Land. But Christians today know that when we die we'll go to the place Jesus is preparing for us. It's important to make our lives count while we are on earth. Yes, our lives have their difficulties, and if the Lord doesn't return soon, our lives will end in death. But death will lead to eternity. And we can live a life of the eternal today. The Bible says, "He who does the will of God abides forever" (I John 2:17). Let's touch the eternal today by abiding in the Almighty and doing His will.


* * *
You need not die to bring eternity to the present. You do so by abiding in God and doing His will. Determine to make your life count. Invest it in eternity.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 6:11 Proverbs 4:23 Psalms 90:12-17


A Heart of Wisdom


Read Psalm 90:12-17

"So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" (v. 12). Moses' words summarize what we need to know if we want to make our lives count.

We live a day at a time. Usually, we don't number our days; we number our years. When you have a birthday and someone asks how old you are, you tell them your age in the number of years. But we'd better number our days, because we live a day at a time. "Give us this day our daily bread" (Matt. 6:11). God has ordained that the entire universe functions a day at a time.

We live from the heart. "So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." We need to take care of the heart. That's why Solomon wrote in Proverbs 4:23, "Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it spring the issues of life." What is in your heart will direct your life.

We also live by God's wisdom. Wisdom is knowing and having discernment, so that we can apply the truth of the Word of God at the right time, in the right way, with the right motive. Wisdom comes from the Word of God and from getting to know Him and ourselves better.


* * *
Moses gives the secret of making life count--live it a day at a time. You need God's help to apply His Word to your life. Live as though this may be your last day. Ask God for the wisdom you need and apply it by faith.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 91:1-8


Safety in the Shadow


Read Psalm 91:1-8

I wonder what the safest place in the world is. A bomb shelter? A bank vault? Perhaps a prison surrounded by an army? According to Psalm 91, the safest place in the world is a shadow. "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" (v. 1). "He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler" (v. 4).

What does this mean? The psalmist refers to the Holy of Holies in the tabernacle and the temple. In the Holy of Holies, two cherubim were over the mercy seat, and their wings touched each other. "Under his wings" means at the mercy seat, where the blood was sprinkled, there in the presence of the glory of God. The Holy of Holies was God's throne. It was the place of God's glory. In other words, the safest place in the world is in fellowship with God--not just visiting the Holy Place, as the high priest did once a year, but dwelling in the Holy Place. The psalmist is urging, "Live in the Holy of Holies."

According to Hebrews 10, we have an open invitation to come right into the presence of God and dwell in the secret place--under His wings, at the mercy seat. This is where God meets with us, where His glory is revealed, where He gives us His guidance and shows us His will. My shadow is not much protection for anyone. But when it belongs to the Almighty, a shadow is a strong protection. Live in the Holy of Holies, under the shadow of the Almighty.


* * *
God invites you to fellowship with Him--to live in the Holy of Holies. What an invitation! You may come into the safety of His presence and receive His mercy, guidance and protection. Do you live under God's shadow?

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 91:9-16


Guardian Angels


Read Psalm 91:9-16

"For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways" (v. 11). This is the promise Satan quoted to Jesus when he tempted Him in the wilderness.

This promise speaks about our security. We can't see the angels. But they are God's messengers, servants sent to help us. If we are in the will of God, we have the protection of His army. He is called the "Lord of Hosts" (the Lord of the armies). The hosts of the heavens are under His control--the stars and planets and all the universe. But so is the great host of angels--thousands and thousands of angels, God's creation, His army sent for our ministry.

When the child of God is in His will, then he is immortal until his work is done. This suggests that we have a responsibility--"to keep you in all your ways"--to be in the will of God. "Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place" (v. 9). When you are dwelling with God, abiding in Him, then He says, "No evil shall befall you" (v. 10). It doesn't say we won't be hurt; it says we won't be harmed. We may have to go through the valley, go through the battle or go through difficulty. But it will not bring evil to us.

Our security and our responsibility lead to our victory. What kind of victory does God give us? "You shall tread upon the lion and cobra; the young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot"

(v. 13). Satan is the lion and the serpent. The psalmist tells us that because we are abiding in the Lord, because His truth is our shield and our buckler, we have victory. We can call upon Him, and He will answer. It's wonderful to know that God gives us security as we fulfill our responsibility.


* * *
Angels are God's messengers sent to help and protect you. As you think about angels and their ministry, keep in mind your responsibility to stay in the will of God and abide with Him. Thank God for the "invisible" ministry of His angels and for the part they have in your victory over Satan.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 14:28-31 Psalms 93:1-5


Looking Above the Flood


Read Psalm 93:1-5

While I was ministering at a Bible conference in the Pacific Northwest, I watched the ocean as it moved in. The last day of the conference was rainy and stormy. The ocean waves looked as though they were right at our back door. The scene reminded me of verse 3 in today's passage: "The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their waves."

What do you do when you find yourself threatened by the floods of wickedness? Do what the psalmist did. He looked at God's throne. "The Lord reigns, He is clothed with majesty. The Lord is clothed, He has girded Himself with strength. Surely the world is established, so that it cannot be moved. Your throne is established from of old; You are from everlasting" (v. 1). No waves or floods can disturb the throne of God. But often we don't look high enough. We see the floods, but we don't see God. We see the waves getting higher and higher, and we don't lift up our eyes by faith and see the eternal, established, secure, strong throne of God.

The psalmist also heard God's testimonies. He didn't listen to the sound of the waves. Today, you might hear a lot of threatening sounds. Don't pay any attention to them. "Your testimonies are very sure" (v. 5). The psalmist heard God's testimonies and said, "I can trust the Word of God."

This psalm also reminds me of Peter when he walked on the water (see Matt. 14:28-31). He took his eyes off the Lord and forgot His promise. Jesus said to him, "Come." That's all Peter needed. He should have said to himself, "If Jesus says, 'Come,' I can come"--because His commandments are always His empowerments.


* * *
God's throne is established, and His testimony is sure. When you see the flood approaching, lift your eyes higher to see the throne of God and open your ears to hear His Word. Put your faith to work and trust His promises of strength and power.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 94:1-10


Trust God's Timing


Read Psalm 94:1-10

"Lord, how long will the wicked . . . triumph?" (v. 3). I'm sure you also have asked that question. This sentiment is expressed many times in Scripture. The great saints of God cried out, "O Lord, how long?" When David was being chased by King Saul, many times he said, "How long, O Lord, before I get my throne? You've promised it to me."

The psalmist tells us that God has His plan. He hears our prayers and sees our need. He knows exactly what is going on. The wicked think that they have everything under control. "Yet they say, 'The Lord does not see, nor does the God of Jacob understand"' (v. 7). "God can't see what we're doing; God's not going to do anything." That's the false confidence of the wicked. But the psalmist answers that with inspired logic. "He who planted the ear, shall He not hear? He who formed the eye, shall He not see? He who instructs the nations, shall not He correct, He who teaches man knowledge?" (vv. 9,10). In other words, is God dumber than we are? He sees what's going on in this world. He hears the cries of His own people and disciplines those who need discipline.

Our tendency, of course, is to take things into our own hands. Moses tried that approach, and it sent him to the wilderness for 40 years to learn how to trust God's timing and method. When you find yourself crying out, "How long, O Lord, how long," focus on God and remember that He knows as much about the situation as you do--probably more. Then wait on Him. Watch and pray. You can be sure that He will keep His promises.


* * *
Learning to trust God's methods and timing is a lifelong course. When you need to wait patiently for God to act, first look to Him and lay hold of His promises in Scripture. Then rest in His care. He knows your situation, and He keeps His word. He will act at the right time.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 94:11-23


Pray, Wait or Act?


Read Psalm 94:11-23

Who will rise up for me against the evildoers? Who will stand up for me against the workers of iniquity?" (v. 16). I wonder what kind of an answer we would give to these questions.

There are times when we only pray about a problem. There are times when we wait. There are times when God says, "Not now--I'll take care of it later." But there are times when we must act, as when Moses had to stand up and lead the people out of Egypt, or when David had to perform the judgment of God. There are times when we who are the light of the world must stand up and shine, when we who are the salt of the earth must apply that salt to the decay in the world today.

How easy it is to be a spectator and say, "Well, I'll pray about it." Good--be sure you do. But God says, "Who's going to stand up for Me against the workers of iniquity?" The answer: those who know that God is their Help. "Unless the Lord had been my help, my soul would soon have settled in silence" (v. 17). "But the Lord has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge" (v. 22). When God is your Help, when you have the strength of God that comes from His Word, you can stand up against the sin in this world.

Those who are separated from sin are also called to action. "Shall the throne of iniquity, which devises evil by law, have fellowship with You?" (v. 20). We have laws today that provide defense from a lot of sin. Yet those who are separated from sin must stand up with God against iniquity--those who believe that He will give us the ultimate victory. We may lose a few battles, but thank God we're going to win the war!


* * *
Christians are never to become complacent about evildoers. We deal with them by praying, waiting and acting. God wants you to be an influence for Him. Be an active witness where He has placed you. Ask for His leading in knowing when to pray, wait or take a stand.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 94:1-7


Responding to Greatness


Read Psalm 95:1-7

"For the Lord is the great God, and a great King above all gods" (v. 3). That's a great affirmation of faith the psalmist wrote as he looked at the heathen gods of other nations.

In his book Your God Is Too Small, J. B. Phillips affirms the greatness of God. If you have a small God, you'll have small faith; if you have a great God, you'll have great faith--not great faith in your faith but great faith in a great God. If God truly is a great God, then how should we respond to His greatness?

First, thank Him. "Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms" (v. 2). Be thankful that He is a great God. Note that His greatness extends to creation. "In His hand are the deep places of the earth; the heights of the hills are His also" (v. 4). Isn't it good to know that God is a God of the depths as well as a God of the heights? When we're living on the mountaintop, He is there. When we're down in the valley, He is there. "The sea is His, for He made it; and His hands formed the dry land" (v. 5). I'm glad that my God is God of the changing places, such as the sea, and of the stable places, such as the dry land. No matter where we are, we can experience His greatness.

Second, sing to Him. "Oh, come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation" (v. 1). And worship Him. "Oh, come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker" (v. 6).


* * *
The greatness of God is the answer to the smallness of man. When you see great sin and great disappointment or when you have a great burden to carry, remember that you are worshiping a great God. As you kneel before Him, He becomes even greater.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 95:7-11


Hardened Hearts


Read Psalm 95:7-11

We find a warning in today's passage. "Today, if you will hear His voice: Do not harden your hearts" (vv. 7,8). The context is the nation of Israel in the wilderness. From Egypt to Canaan, they saw God at work. He led them out of Egypt, through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. And what did they do in return? They hardened their hearts.

How do we harden our hearts? It's a process that occurs gradually as we complain about God's work and ignore His Word. The Israelites complained about the way He led them and the way He fed them. They heard God's Word and deliberately disobeyed. This is called tempting God. "When your fathers tested Me; they tried Me, though they saw My work. For forty years I was grieved with that generation" (v. 9).

When you see God at work and you complain instead of rejoice, when you hear His Word and deliberately disobey it--you're tempting Him. It's like a little child just daring mom or dad to discipline him. When you harden your heart, you miss God's best for your life. The people of Israel saw the miracles. They heard the messages. They were fed day after day. But in a period of 40 years, that whole older generation died. They did not enter into the fullness of their inheritance.

What should you do to prevent a hard heart? Repent. Listen to God's Word and respond to it tenderly. Watch God's work and respond to it thankfully. Stop complaining and disobeying. Worship the Lord and keep a tender heart before Him.


* * *
When you take God and His provisions for granted, you become less thankful and less responsive to Him. Heed the warning of these verses: Keep your heart open to God's Word and obey Him.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 96:1-6


Strength and Beauty


Read Psalm 96:1-6

Early one spring morning I walked out the front door of my home and saw a spiderweb. It was beautiful, but it wasn't strong. Before the day was over, the web was gone.

Some things are beautiful but not strong. And other things are strong but not beautiful. A concrete slab is strong, but you're not likely to want one in your living room. Similarly, a steel girder exists to support, not to be seen. There was a beauty about the tabernacle and temple. "Honor and majesty are before Him; strength and beauty are in His sanctuary" (v. 6). The tabernacle was a tent--it had beauty but not a great deal of strength. The temple had both strength and beauty.

Our God is practical, but not so practical that He leaves out the beautiful. He gave both strength and beauty to His creation, such as trees, mountains and rivers.

God also wants us to have beauty. He wants us to have the kind of strength that is beautiful and the kind of beauty that is strong. We can "worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness" because "strength and beauty are in His sanctuary."


* * *
God's works have both beauty and strength. If you are walking in fellowship with Him, your life will have a beauty that is strong and a strength that is beautiful. You'll become more and more like Jesus.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference 1 Peter 1:16 John 17:17 Psalms 96:7-13


True Holiness


Read Psalm 96:7-13

Oh, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness!" (v. 9). God desires holiness for His people. "Be holy, for I am holy" is repeated several times in the Old Testament. And the apostle Peter used it in one of his letters (I Pet. 1:16). It means to be separated, unique and distinct.

God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit work together to lead us into a life of holiness. The cross of Jesus indicates that God wants us to be holy. On the cross Jesus died for our sins to make us holy, to bring us to God. The Holy Spirit within us urges us to a holy life by His power. The Word of God helps us grow in holiness. Jesus said to His Father, "Sanctify them by Your truth; Your word is truth" (John 17:17).

True holiness is beautiful; false holiness is not. The Pharisees had a false holiness--an artificial, manufactured piety. Jesus had true holiness, and He attracted people. The Pharisees repelled them. The fruit of the Spirit--love, joy, peace, patience and the rest--make for a beautiful life.

True holiness is beautiful, and this beauty comes from worship. Did you know that you become like what you worship? If your god is selfish, you become selfish. If your god is ugly, you become ugly. The person who worships money becomes hard. The person who worships pleasure becomes soft. But the person who worships the true and living God becomes beautiful--more and more like Christ.


* * *
God has given you the necessary resources to live a holy life. Allow His Word to teach you and the Holy Spirit to guide you. Live so that you may become more like Christ.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Genesis 19 Psalms 97:1-12


Balancing Love and Hate


Read Psalm 97:1-12

A friend of mine likes to quote a beatitude that he has either invented or borrowed: "Blessed are the balanced." It's a good point. We can't easily walk unless we're balanced. When I was learning how to ride a bicycle, my parents put me on one and gave me a push, but I could not keep balanced. To roller skate, ice skate or ski, you've got to maintain balance.

This is also true of the Christian life. That's why the psalmist says, "You who love the Lord, hate evil!" (v. 10). There's a balance for you. Christians are not supposed to hate one another, but they are supposed to hate evil.

We can have one of several attitudes toward the evil in the world today. First, we can defend it. I don't see how Christians can do that, but there are those who do. There are even those who promote it. They're playing right into the hands of Satan. Or, we can close our eyes and ignore it, like the priest and the Levite in the parable of the Good Samaritan, who passed by on the other side. Or we can endure it and say, "Well, it's here, and I'll just grit my teeth and clench my fists and put up with it." But the Word of God says we should hate it and oppose it.

We hate evil because we love the Lord. If we love Him, we love the things He loves and hate the things He hates. This is also true in human relationships. When you love someone, you love the things he or she loves, and you want to share those things. When God judges evil, we want to be on His side. We don't want to be like Lot, who, though it grieved his soul, tolerated the evil in Sodom. Everything Lot lived for was burned up when Sodom went up in smoke (Gen. 19). "He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them out of the hand of the wicked." God is on our side. And if God is for us, who can be against us?


* * *
What is your attitude toward evil in the world? If you love the Lord, you cannot remain neutral. You must hate evil and oppose it, for it is dangerous to tolerate it. Ask God for the strength to take a stand against evil and be a witness to those who practice it.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 98:1-9


A Singing Faith


Read Psalm 98:1-9

One of my seminary professors was a missionary in Africa for many years. When he first arrived on the field by riverboat, from the banks of the river he could hear screaming and wailing and the beating of drums. But 25 years later, when he went down to the river to leave the field, people lined the banks and were singing, "All hail the power of Jesus' name, let angels prostrate fall." What a difference!

The Christian faith is a singing faith. Christians ought to be singing people. We are admonished in the Word of God to sing to the Lord. "Oh, sing to the Lord a new song! For He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory" (v. 1).

Sing about God's victories. If you think you have no victory in your life, start singing about the victory of the Lord, and you'll be surprised what He'll do for you.

Sing about His salvation. "The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations" (v. 2). We should proclaim the message of salvation to people today.

Sing about His mercy and faithfulness. "He has remembered His mercy and his faithfulness" (v. 3). The Lord has been merciful to us, and His faithfulness endures to all generations.

Sing about His coming. Verse 9 tells us that the hills are rejoicing before the Lord, "for He is coming to judge the earth. With righteousness He shall judge the world, and the peoples with equity." Sing about His coming, for Jesus may come back today!


* * *
Are you singing the praises of God in your life? If you've lost your song, it may mean that you've lost something else--your vision of God, faith in His Word--or perhaps sin has come into your life. Follow the instructions of this psalm and "sing to the Lord a new song."

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference John 15:7 Psalms 99:1-9


Prerequisites of Answered Prayer


Read Psalm 99:1-9

One of the greatest joys in the Christian life is the joy of answered prayer--to be able to say to someone, "God answered my prayer today," or to hear someone say, "Thank you for praying--let me tell you what God did." The psalmist writes about this: "Moses and Aaron were among his priests, and Samuel was among those who called upon His name. They called upon the Lord, and He answered them" (v. 6). Moses called upon the Lord many times when he had the burdens of the people on his shoulders. Aaron, as the high priest, also called upon the Lord. Samuel had some disappointments in his life. His family was not all it ought to have been, and Israel was not all it ought to have been. So he cried out to the Lord as well.

If we call upon the Lord, will He answer us? Yes, if we have met the conditions that Moses, Aaron and Samuel met. First, they listened to God's Word. "He spoke to them in the cloudy pillar" (v. 7). "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you" (John 15:7). We want to talk to God and tell Him about all of our problems. He wants to talk to us and tell us about all of His promises. We should listen to Him first, and then He will listen to us.

Second, they obeyed Him. They kept His testimonies and the ordinances. Obedience is important to answered prayer. If we're abiding in Christ, we will obey His Word, and then we will be able to call upon Him.

Third, they confessed their sin. God forgave their sins, and He enabled them to do what He wanted them to do. As a result, they wanted to exalt the Lord. The purpose of prayer is to glorify God. "Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill; for the Lord our God is holy" (v. 9).

How glad I am to know that my High Priest in heaven is interceding for me. I can come to Him any time for the grace that I need.


* * *
Do you enjoy answered prayer? Do you listen to God's Word and obey it? Is your heart clean of unconfessed sin ? Meet God's conditions for answered prayer and let Him bless you.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 100:1-5


The Highest Occupation


Read Psalm 100:1-5

The next time you sing the doxology in a worship service, remember that you are singing Scripture, a version of Psalm 100. This psalm is a digest of instructions on how to worship the Lord.

Who should worship the Lord? "Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands!" (v. 1). God wants the whole world to worship and give thanks to Him. Why are we to go into all the world and preach the Gospel? So that all the world will one day be able to make a joyful shout to the Lord.

How should we worship the Lord? First, by serving. "Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing" (v. 2). We are to serve the Lord with gladness because there's joy in our hearts and because the joy of the Lord gives strength.

Second, we worship Him by singing. "Come before His presence with singing." I fear that too often in our services, singing becomes routine. We hold the hymnal and sing the songs that we know so well, but our minds and hearts are a million miles away. Think about and rejoice in the words you sing.

We also worship the Lord by submitting to Him. "Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture" (v. 3). Submit to Him. Follow Him. Obey Him.

Finally, we worship the Lord by sacrificing. "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise" (v. 4). You don't need to sacrifice animals on an altar, but you can give your time, money and skills.

Why should we worship the Lord? "For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations" (v. 5).


* * *
The highest occupation of the Christian life is worshiping the Lord. Never allow your worship to become routine or artificial. Worship Him with a joyful and thankful heart by serving, singing, submitting and sacrificing.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 15:8 Psalms 100:2 Exodus 20:2-3 Matthew 6:24


Praise Through Service


Read Psalm 100:2

Joyful noise leads to joyful service. If we are to serve the Lord joyfully, our words must become deeds. Jesus warns against hypocritical worship (Matt. 15:8). How are we to serve the Lord genuinely?

First, we serve willingly. We are redeemed to do what God wants us to do. This verse was meaningful to Old Testament Jews, because they knew about servitude. God delivered them from slavery in Egypt so they might serve Him.

Second, we serve exclusively. We cannot serve the Lord and someone else at the same time (Matt. 6:24; Ex. 20:2,3). But we can serve others for Jesus' sake. Our goal is to please Him alone. Our power, wisdom and the plans for our lives come from Him alone.

Third, we serve joyfully. Sometimes we are like the elder brother in the parable of the Prodigal Son; we may do the Father's will and work, but we are far from His heart. God doesn't want our service to be drudgery or to be done grudgingly. That tears us down. When we serve Him joyfully, we enjoy growth, development and excitement. Are you happy serving the Lord?


* * *
We praise God most effectively through our service to Him. Are you engaged in service to the Lord in your church or community? When you offer your service to the Lord willingly and joyfully, you glorify His name. Let your words of praise lead to acts of praise!

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Hebrews 13:20 Exodus 19:5-6 Psalms 46:10 Isaiah 46:9 1 Chronicles 16:25 John 10:11 Psalms 73:13 Psalms 100:3-4


Praise Through Submission


Read Psalm 100:3,4

Psalm 100 is God's instruction sheet for praise. Praise is both an action and an attitude of the heart, and one way we praise God is to submit to Him. This passage suggests three acts of submission that bring praise to God.

First, we submit as creatures to the Creator (v. 3). Satan wants us to think he is God. Some people behave as though they are God. But only Jehovah is God (Isa. 46:9; Ps. 46:10; I Chron. 16:25). A man once said to his girlfriend, "I'm a self-made man." She replied, "It's nice of you to take the blame." We are not self-made. God, in His wisdom, power and patience, has made us. In man is a mingling of dust and deity, for God made us in His image.

Second, we submit as children to the Father. We are chosen by grace (Ex. 19:5,6). He died for us and saved us because He loves us. When we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior, we enter into a spiritual family, with God as our loving Father. As we develop in our relationship with Him, we submit to His authority.

Third, we submit as sheep to the Shepherd. We need a shepherd. Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) and the Great Shepherd (Heb. 13:20), and we are the sheep of His pasture (Ps. 73:13). It's important to feed on the green pastures of the Word of God.


* * *
When you submit to God the Creator, God the Father and Christ the Shepherd, you are praising God. Submitting to Him is aligning your will to His will and obeying His Word. Submit to God--He will love and guide you.

Author:
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Hebrews 13:16 Romans 12:1-2 Hebrews 13:16 Psalms 51:17 Matthew 5:16 Philippians 4:18 Psalms 100:4


Praise Through Sacrifice


Read Psalm 100:4

In Old Testament days, God's people brought animal sacrifices to the altar. Today, instead of bringing the Lord dead sacrifices, we present living sacrifices to Him. The Bible speaks of several sacrifices that praise God.

We have the sacrifice of praise (Heb. 13:15). When our lips thank God for what He has done and for who He is, our praise pleases Him. We have the sacrifice of a broken heart (Ps. 51:17). We are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice to Him (Rom. 12:1,2). There is the sacrifice of good works (Matt. 5:16; Heb. 13:16). And there is the sacrifice of finances (Phil. 4:18). When we share our money, time, possessions and energy with others, we bring a sacrifice to God.

Examine your life to see if you are making sacrifices for His glory. Many jobs are waiting to be done, and you might be the person for a specific job.


* * *
Have you found that place of ministry God has for you? Are you using the gifts He has given you? Offer your sacrifices of praise to God, that you may bring glory to Him and minister to others.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference 1 John 1:9 1 Corinthians 1:9 Psalms 107 Hebrews 4:16 Psalms 31:19-20 Psalms 27:13 Romans 8:19-23 Genesis 1:31 Psalms 33:5 Acts 14:17 Psalms 25:8-9 Psalms 23:6 1 Peter 1:3 Psalms 119:75 1 Corinthians 10:13 Hebrews 13:8 Psalms 100:5


Why We Should Praise the Lord


Read Psalm 100:5

Praise is the highest use of man's faculties. When we contemplate the attributes of God, we can't help but thank and praise Him. This verse speaks of three of God's attributes that make Him worthy of our praise.

First, we see His goodness. It's part of God's nature to be kind and benevolent. He is not frowning upon us; He's smiling on us through Jesus. We see His goodness in creation (Gen. 1:31; Ps. 33:5), even though man has wrecked it (Rom. 8:19-23). God even shows His goodness to the unsaved nations of the world (Acts 14:17). His goodness ought to lead to man's gladness.

His goodness keeps us from fainting (Ps. 27:13). He gives us courage (v. 14). God wants to guide us (25:8,9) and protect us (31:19,20). We should respond to His goodness in three ways: (1) We should be repentant; (2) we should want to enjoy Him; and (3) we should draw near to Him.

Next, we see His mercy. (Ps. 23:6). When God is merciful, He does not give us what we deserve, which is eternal death for our sins. Mercy is forever a part of His nature (Heb. 4:16; I Pet. 1:3; Ps. 107).

Last, we see His faithfulness. This attribute speaks of God's reliability and stability. He is faithful to chasten us (Ps. 119:75). He is faithful to confirm us (I Cor. 1:9). He is faithful to care for us and give us victory over temptation (I Cor. 10:13). He is faithful to forgive us (I John 1:9). God is not going to change (Heb. 13:8). He is faithful in all He does. Share with your children and your grandchildren that God is good, merciful and faithful.


* * *
God's goodness, mercy and faithfulness reveal much about Him. The more you contemplate His attributes, the more you can praise Him.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 101:1-8 Psalms 86:11


Heart and Home


Read Psalm 101:1-8

A pleasant elderly couple who attended the first church I pastored came to me one day and said, "Pastor, we have moved into a new house, and we'd like you to come and dedicate it." So my wife and I went to the house, read Scripture, prayed and dedicated that house to the glory of the Lord.

What is the most important part of a house? At first you might say the foundation, the heating system or the plumbing. But the most important part of a house is the home. And the most important part of that home is the hearts of the people who live there.

That's what David said when He was dedicating his house to the Lord. "I will behave wisely in a perfect way. Oh, when will You come to me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart" (v. 2). If you want to wreck your house, start wrecking your home. And if you want to wreck your home, start wrecking your heart. But if you want your house and your home to be all that God wants them to be, then make your heart perfect.

What is a perfect heart? It's one that has integrity, wholeness and oneness--a heart that is not divided. Nobody can serve two masters. No one can plow and look back. You need to have a heart that is integrated and united. "Unite my heart to fear Your name," David said (Ps. 86:11). He walked around his new house and said, "I want my heart to be perfect, to be wholly fixed upon the Lord. I want Him to reign supremely in my home, because He reigns supremely in my heart."

Can you say the same?


* * *
Your heart affects your home. Both need to be dedicated to the Lord. Are you fixed upon the Lord ? Does He reign in your home? Determine to walk with integrity always and to make yours a united heart that serves God.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 102:1-11


Days of Trouble


Read Psalm 102:1-11

One day I phoned a friend of mine who is in the ministry and asked, "How's it going?" His quiet reply was, "Well, I'm having one of those days." The next time you're having one of those days when everything seems to be going wrong--your plans are falling apart, you don't feel well, there are problems and burdens, and it seems as if all of the forces of the enemy are against you--read this psalm. "Hear my prayer, O Lord, and let my cry come to You. Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble" (vv. 1,2). What kind of a day was the psalmist having? A day of trouble. In fact, he compares himself to a lonely bird. "I am like a pelican of the wilderness; I am like an owl of the desert.... I am like a sparrow alone upon the housetop" (vv. 6,7). That's the way he feels--like a bird alone on a housetop. He wants to go into the house and enjoy some fellowship, but he's alone.

The psalmist's enemies were reproaching him (v. 8). But in a day of trouble and reproach, he says, "I'm going to change this by the grace of God." And it becomes a day of prayer. He tells God how he feels and what he sees. He cries out, "God, You are the only one who can change things." God can change things for you also. He may not change the circumstances on the outside, but He does change your feelings on the inside. Then the day of trouble becomes a day of triumph.


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Everyone has days of trouble. When circumstances entrap you and trouble closes around you, pray to the Lord. He knows how to turn your trouble into triumph. Although He may not answer your prayers the way you expect, He will do what is best for you and for His glory.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Matthew 24:35 Psalms 102:12-28


More Sure Than The World


Read Psalm 102:12-28

Have you heard the phrase, "It's as sure as the world"? In fact, nothing is more unsure than the world. "Of old You laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. They will perish, but You will endure" (vv. 25,26). The "sure" world will perish. Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away" (Matt. 24:35). What is the surest thing in your life? On what are you building your life? You'd better be building it on the Lord; He's the only One who is sure.

Jesus always is the same. "But You are the same, and Your years will have no end" (v. 27). Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. God has made this universe, and everything around us looks so certain. We are so sure of the way things work. We can send people from the earth to the moon. God's universe is precisely crafted, but He says that all of this will perish.

What should you do, knowing that you live in a temporary world? Trust God, who is sure. Pray to Him. "He shall regard the prayer of the destitute, and shall not despise their prayer" (v. 17). Trust His Word and praise Him. Prayer and praise go together. "This will be written for the generation to come, that a people yet to be created may praise the Lord" (v. 18).


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Many people foolishly build their entire lives on the cracked foundations of this world and will one day perish with it. But God is changeless and eternal. He wants you to build your life on Him. When you pray, praise Him for His creation and for His work in your life.

Author: Warren Wiersbe
Source: Prayer, Praise and Promises
Scripture Reference Psalms 103:1-5


Don't Stop Praising


Read Psalm 103:1-5

I wonder how long we could talk to the Lord without asking for something. "Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits" (vv. 1,2). Psalm 103 has no requests. It is nothing but praise; David is blessing the Lord.

What are some of these benefits David sings about? They are ones we may have forgotten or that we may be taking for granted. First, the Lord saves. "Who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases" (v. 3). The last part of that statement is an illustration of the first part. He forgives all our iniquities in the same way He heals the human body. Often in the Bible, sin is compared to sickness, and salvation is compared to health. God brings saving health to our souls.

Second, He keeps. "Who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies" (v. 4). He keeps us and protects us from the destruction around us. He puts a crown on our heads and makes us kings.

Third, He satisfies. "Who satisfies your mouth with good things" (v. 5). In fact, David says God so satisfies us that our youth is renewed like the eagle's. The eagle molts, loses its old feathers, gets a new coat and soars again.


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Do you pray to God for the sole purpose of praising Him ? You have much for which to praise Him, for His love and care never cease. He saves, keeps and satisfies you. Never take God for granted; always take time to praise Him.