Well, good morning to all! Today, I awaken to sunshine and the very real possibility of "warmer" temperatures than what we have been experiencing in South Carolina.
I pray that all is well with you today. This week's Psalm of Discipleship addresses two core values of the disciple's life: grace and prayer. As you read the key scripture, may I suggest you read it word for word, taking proper time to digest every word in the verse. And as you do so, keep this question in the front of your mind: Lord, what are you saying to me?
This week, may His grace warm your heart, may your times of prayer be rich as you grow closer to the Lord.
Keep on pressing on!
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #7
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: But know that the LORD has set apart the godly man [and woman] for Himself; The LORD hears when I call to Him. Psalm 4:3
Core Value: Grace & Prayer
It is the grace of God that allows the believer to grow deeper in relationship with the Lord. We can seek to improve our prayer life; to study the Bible on a regular basis; and to even fast and deny ourselves pleasure. But without the grace of God, all of it is for naught. Grace is given to the believer not just for one’s personal gratification. Grace is also a gift to the community of believers. Grace for the believer is to be shared by the believer to the believer. Grace is to be modeled. We all are to be trophies of His grace. The great challenge for every disciple is to become so marinated with the grace of God that we live a transformed life. It is a life we cannot “will” to do in our own strength, but a life where we lay down our will and live for His.
Principle #7 & Personal Application: The quality disciple is blessed because they are personally experiencing God’s grace and authentic prayer. Because of grace, we (the disciple of Jesus) can pray to the Lord who hears us. The disciple of Jesus Christ can become a disciple because of what God has done through the finished work of Christ. Through grace, we have been placed “in Christ.” Through grace, we can communicate with the Lord through prayer.
• Because of His Word to us, His sure promise to us, we can know that the Lord has set apart the godly man (and woman) for Himself. Disciples of Jesus Christ belong to Him!
• Because disciples of Jesus Christ belong to Him, we have been given access to Him through prayer.
• “The Lord hears.” What an amazing promise: to think that the sovereign God and Lord of the universe, the King of Glory, would not only hear the cry of our heart, but also loves and cares for us.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
What kind of lifestyle is the Lord calling me to live since He has set apart the godly man (and woman) for Himself?
When is the last time that I have cried out to the Lord?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I am in awe of You. Thank You for loving me, for setting me apart, for choosing me to be one of Your children. As a disciple of Jesus Christ, teach me to pray; please help me to develop a more intimate, more authentic relationship with You.
The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2010 All rights reserved.
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