"So the men took some of their provisions, but did not ask counsel from the LORD." -Joshua 9:14 ESV
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer." -Romans 12:12 ESV
What a gift we have in prayer! The ability to approach our Savior and Lord with praise and even our struggles is a blessing of redemption. Because we have been perfectly restored in Christ to a righteous position before God, we can seek divine help personally and intimately. If faithfulness to the purposes of God is the goal for the Christian life, then prayer becomes a constant practice in discovering what is truly right in the eyes of God. Wise counsel is found in the Word of God and is properly understood by the revealing of the Spirit of God. Prayerful consideration of God's Word seeks to receive instruction and guidance from the Lord accurately. This Joshua verse refers to the Gibeonite deception that took place under the leadership of Joshua. There are many lessons from this passage, but clearly we see a warning in this example to not presume anything when make decisions as the people of God. They had seen and experienced God's work in their lives many times prior to this encounter. So they clearly understood from the past a need to hear from God and be directed by God. However, they were still deceived. They seemed to take for granted what they were seeing and hearing from the Gibeonites rather than really thinking it through with the Lord's help. The possibility of deception makes seeking God's counsel important past, present, and future. Praying at all times is emphasized by the Apostle Paul for general instruction to the church in the New Testament. In the church age, we have the presence of God dwelling in our hearts through God the Holy Spirit. Prayer keeps us connected and sensitive to the way of righteousness in seeking to be obedient to the Lord. There is a saying that we must "stay prayed up." This is good advice that has biblical foundation, if I understand correctly. Since prayer is to be continuous, we are never done with prayer. Conversation with God is to be always present for guidance, assurance, and confirmation of His Will. Prayer is never wrong and we are changed in prayer. Because prayer is a part of God's Will for us, it pleases Him when we are devoted to it personally and collectively.
Prayer seems to be an indicator of spiritual maturity that takes discipline to stay loyal in regular practice. The expression of persisting in prayer seems to be very helpful to describe the holy labor involved. This type of labor however is able to increase vitality rather than being an effort that drains us. So continuous effort to pray and the inner surrender of the heart to focus on the Lord is essential. In order to actually pray one must turn decisively toward God in thought and will. Merely closing your eyes and reciting holy words is the temptation of routine that strays from the actual purpose. The heart must be conditioned through routine to surrender and seek the Lord and rest in His presence. The discipline of the mind and heart to express desires and requests and words of praise with constant awareness of the Saviors presence is the task at hand in prayer. Awareness will prepare the heart to receive the answers to prayer, as well. Whether the answer is confirmation and direction or correction and redirection, the praying believer is ready. Let's pray with awareness and eager expectation today and moving forward. Always pray. Praying past, present, and future says... I have prayed... I am praying... I will continue in prayer.
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