Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Cords of Affection

Prayer is the cord of affection that binds our hearts together!

That is a quote I remember reading in a book somewhere. But it is more than a quote - it is truth. Anytime a group of people genuinely seek God together, their hearts begin to become bound together. It is a supernatural unity that only the Holy Spirit can bring in the midst of our cries to God. Scripture tells us that when two or three of us gather together in his name, Jesus is there with us. When we pray, the great unifier is present.

Satan's plan is always to bring division but when we pray, when we come before God to experience and encounter him together, the only thing that can result is unity. Do you want to experience healing from a relational strain or brokenness? Do you want your marriage to be deeper? Do you want your kids to connect with you more? Do you want your small group to have more "life"? Then start praying together because your hearts will begin to supernaturally bind together! And if you can't pray together just start by praying blessings over that person and watch what God will do.

"A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." (Ecc 4:12)

Monday, March 8, 2010

Truth Offends

Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts. (Psalm 95:8)

What is God speaking to you today? Are you listening? Are you receptive? Everything that God is sharing, encouraging, challenging you with today is an invitation to go deeper with him. Is your heart soft and receptive or hard and unwilling to receive the truth he is speaking?

I think the reason we often harden our hearts toward God is because truth offends. I have found myself sharing that with numerous people this week. Truth offends us because it convicts us. It challenges us. It reveals things in us. It is a mirror that shows us who we really are. And so when truth is shared with us we allow it to offend us instead of transform us. Truth can hurt but the TRUTH always brings life. Are you offended by the TRUTH today? Then you are offended by him because he is THE TRUTH!

"I am the Way, THE TRUTH, and the Life." (John 14:6)