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THE NEW LIFE SERIES :: BE THANKFUL

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Join me on the third Friday of each month in 2020 for this in-depth Bible study with real world applications.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.~ Colossians 3:15

In today’s verse Paul encourages us to let God’s peace rule our hearts. Because we are members of the body of Christ we are called to live in peace. And then should always be thankful.

Umpire of Peace

The word rule in this scripture comes from the language of athletics and refers to an umpire or referee. Our hearts are often the center of conflicting feelings and emotions–hopes and fears, love and jealousy. Paul is telling us to let the umpire of peace choose between the conflicting elements. Which choice will bring peace to our soul or our relationships?

Life of Peace

Having received Christ as our Savior we are now members of His mystical body, the Church. And as such we are called to live peaceful lives. Lives that are peaceful are free from anxiety, fear or worry.

Don’t worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God’s peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. ~ Philippians 4:6-7

With the peace of Christ ruling our hearts we will truly able to be thankful. Here are three things we should all be thankful for:

  • God has chosen us. We should be so thankful that God has chosen us to be a part of His forever family.

You are the people of God; He loved you and chose you for His own. ~ Colossians 3:12

  • God’s gift of Christ. We should be forever thankful for the gift of Christ’s sacrifice which allows us to have relationship with our heavenly Father.

Praise God for his astonishing gift, which is far too great for words! ~ 2 Corinthians 9:15

  • God’s gift of life. We should be thankful for all the things we’ve been given: God’s Word, air, food, water, shelter, sun, rain, family, friends, flowers, dogs, ice cream… for all things!

And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ~ Ephesians 5:20

 Join me in a worship of gratefulness with this awesome song  by  Elevation Worship

Elevation

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THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES :: PRAYER

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DIFFERENT FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In The Spiritual Disciplines series we’re learning 12 disciplines that will guide us as we grow deeper in our walk with God. These columns post on the second Friday of each month in 2020.

Spiritual Disciplines are not a list of religious duties but rather habits that nurture and mature our spiritual growth. They are inward, spiritual attitudes walked out by behaviors and actions. These habits are critical for lasting spiritual growth and true life transformation.

PRAYER: Interactive conversation with God about what we and God are thinking and doing together. ~ The Life With God Bible

Let my prayer be counted as incense before you, and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice.  ~ Psalm 141:2

The Spiritual Discipline of Prayer is the most important of the disciplines because it brings us into direct communion with our heavenly Father. Prayer is a foundational discipline and in some way involves the other disciplines especially solitude, study, worship, and fasting.

Prayer is a deeply personal experience. Each of us have our own idea of spending time with God. There is no right or wrong way to pray. While our prayer time is often shaped by external and internal circumstances out of our control, we mustn’t allow life to keep us from spending time alone with God.

How, when, or where we pray is between us and God. Whether we pray out loud, silently; with music or without; kneeling, sitting or standing; in a group or alone… The most important thing is that we take time to pray and are sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading in our communication with our Father.

Three points to consider about Prayer:

      • Expect and answer. 

Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. ~ Mark 11:24

      • Listen.

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. ~ John 10:27

      • Keep an attitude of prayer.  

Pray without ceasing. ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Prayer is simply talking to God. It’s something we can do all day long. In-between different activities take a minute to check in with God. Or when you think of someone just lift up a little prayer for them.

God uses prayer to change us. And through prayer God allows us to partner with Him to change the future.

Pray boldly believing you will change things.

Maybe even God’s mind!

“Units of prayer combined, like drops of water make an ocean which defies resistance.” ~ E. M. Bounds

Take a few minutes and enjoy this uplifting song by Tauren Wells!