Phillipeans 4:6 says "Worry about nothing, trust in the Lord with everything." That's what we say. But what do we do? Do you trust in the Lord with everything? Worry is a control issue. We want control over uncertain or uncomfortable situations. But God says to trust in Him. This isn't to say that life will be without pain and problems. But Christian maturity means trusting God that His plans for us are greater than our present difficulties. So, when you start to worry, instead-start to … [Read more...]
Private Prayer
Our Glory or His? God isn't a big fan of humans doing things for our own glory. In fact, look at any behavior where the goal is to draw attention away from God and to ourselves. You can bet that God is frowning upon it. Focusing on God's glory (more Him, and less us) is a sign of Christian maturity. The Jewish Pharisees were known for praying in public as a show of their self-righteousness. They were seeking their own glory and Jesus Christ saw right through it. But let us not think we … [Read more...]
2 Minutes to Christian Maturity. “Write Your Prayer to God”
Written Prayers Have you ever read the Psalms? They are written prayers to God. Some are songs and others are just the outpourings of the heart. I just listened to an audiobook version of "Here I Stand", which was Martin Luther's self defense of his writings which sparked the Protestant Reformation in 1521. (google it. It's a great read) Although he had many supporters among common Christians, he was facing an onslaught of criticism and pressure from the Catholic leadership to recant his … [Read more...]