Why is Authority Controversial?
Jesus had quite a lot to say about authority. The question is, “Did He say what He meant and did He mean what He said?”
Jesus had quite a lot to say about authority. The question is, “Did He say what He meant and did He mean what He said?”
Prayer is not simply a thought, but the verbalization of a thought. Perhaps the most effectual, fervent, powerful prayer you can pray is the one the Holy Spirit prays through you as shared in Romans 8 and I Corinthians 12 & 14.
Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people). Ephesians 6:18 (AMPC) Today we are considering several aspects or “manner” of praying. The Prayer of Intercession, standing in place of another—for example a lost person, or making an earnest request on behalf of a believer is powerful prayer tool. Also building yourself up by praying in the Spirit is essential.
Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people). Ephesians 6:18 (AMPC) Prayer is not a mixed bag, a hit or miss proposition. It is vital to our walk with God and is part of our worship of our Creator. God’s heart for us is to have a fruitful, productive, prayer life that brings results. The activity of the Holy Spirit in our prayer life is the key.
Jesus taught His disciples that they should expect powerful positive results when praying. “At that time you won’t need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.” (John 16:23-24) First and foremost, we should determine to pray in line with God’s Word. Today and in the upcoming messages, we are exploring what that entails, praying with confidence in Him.
James 5:13 says, “Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray.” Many times folks would like to delegate all the prayer business to others. Certainly there is a place for unified concerted prayer. In one place noted in the Book of Acts, even the place where they were praying was shaken from such prayer. But in most cases, God will come to you through your own personal faith. James says, “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” When you develop that kind of prayer life, your prayer with others will be effective and powerful too.