December 17, 2014

Read: Hebrews 12:28-29

I once was told that if I could throw my problems in a bucket with others’ problems, and was told to choose any problem in the bucket, I would likely choose my own!  We are going to have difficulties in our life.  You can count on it!  It is through our trials, that we have opportunities to grow our faith.  When we rely on God during these times, He becomes like a consuming fire. Every moment, every decision, and every act is impacted by our desire to be connected to God.  The more we rely on Him, the more we want to rely on him.  We learn to trust more deeply when we are consumed with Him.

As you go through this week, praise God for the difficulties, no matter how large or small.  As you become more dependent on Him, you will experience the burning desire to be consumed by His love and grace.  

As for me, I’ll hold on to my problems, throwing them to God rather than a bucket.

Pray: 

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship. 

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness. 

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness. 

Supplication: Petition God regarding your family and your ministry.  Ask for help and guidance in sharing your Jesus with others and helping others grow in Him.  Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you may have.  Intercede on behalf of local, national, and world missions.  Pray the Great Commission would be fulfilled and for any special concerns you may have for missions.