Conclusion of this Bible Study “Praying Like Jesus”

Glory to God!

 

 

 The recurring theme throughout this lesson was to recognize God as the hearer and object of our prayer, and to have a relationship with Him through our prayers and our time spent with Him.  When we pray, we should pray not only with the recognition that God is listening and can answer our prayer, but also with focus on God's will, God's word, and God's kingdom. Our petitions should align with the things that God wants to accomplish in this world in order for their effectiveness to be maximized from our perspective. Ultimately, we should seek to know and follow God's perspective as we pray. This has been a very encouraging study for me. I saw how the enemy attacks you when you concentrate on praying to God. But, we have a weapon to use against him every time, God's Word, amen. The world is changing, and we must stay focus on God and His Word through our dedicated time with Him through our prayer time as our daily quiet time.  "Why pray? What is the point of prayer when God knows the future and is already in control of everything. If we cannot change God's mind, why should we pray?" For the Christian, praying is supposed to be like breathing, easier to do than to not do. We pray for a variety of reasons. For one thing, prayer is a form of serving God and obeying Him. We pray because God commands us to pray. Prayer is exemplified for us by Christ and the early church. If Jesus thought it was worthwhile to pray, we should also. If He needed to pray to remain in the Father's will, how much more do we need to pray?

Another reason to pray is that God intends prayer to be the means of obtaining His solutions in a number of situations. We pray in preparation for major decisions; to overcome demonic barriers; to gather workers for the spiritual harvest; to gain strength to overcome temptation; and to obtain the means of strengthening others spiritually.  We come to God with our specific requests, and we have God's promise that our prayers are not in vain, even if we do not receive specifically what we asked for. He has promised that when we ask for things that are in accordance with His will, He will give us what we ask for. Sometimes He delays His answers according to His wisdom and for our benefit. In these situations, we are to be diligent and persistent in prayer. Prayer should not be seen as our means of getting God to do our will on earth, but rather as a means of getting God's will done on earth. God's wisdom far exceeds our own.

For situations in which we do not know God's will specifically, prayer is a means of discerning His will. If the Syrian woman with the demon-influenced daughter had not prayed to Christ, her daughter would not have been made whole. If the blind man outside Jericho had not called out to Christ, he would have remained blind. God has said that we often go without because we do not ask. In one sense, prayer is like sharing the gospel with people. We do not know who will respond to the message of the gospel until we share it. In the same way, we will never see the results of answered prayer unless we pray. A lack of prayer demonstrates a lack of faith and a lack of trust in God's Word. We pray to demonstrate our faith in God, that He will do as He has promised in His Word and bless our lives abundantly more than we could ask or hope for. Prayer is our primary means of seeing God work in others' lives. Because it is our means of "plugging into" God's power, it is our means of defeating Satan and his army that we are powerless to overcome by ourselves. Therefore, may God find us often before His throne, for we have a high priest in heaven who can identify with all that we go through. We have His promise that the fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much. May God glorify His name in our lives as we believe in Him enough to come to Him often in prayer.  

 

As my last statement concerning prayer. Let's ask this question "What is prayer?"
The most basic definition of prayer is "talking to God." Prayer is not meditation or passive reflection; it is direct address to God. It is the communication of the human soul with the Lord who created the soul. Prayer is the primary way for the believer in Jesus Christ to communicate his emotions and desires with God and to fellowship with God.

Prayer can be audible or silent, private or public, formal or informal. All prayer must be offered in faith, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. As the International Standard Bible Encyclopedia puts it, "Christian prayer in its full New Testament meaning is prayer addressed to God as Father, in the name of Christ as Mediator, and through the enabling grace of the indwelling Spirit" ("Prayer" by J. C. Lambert). The wicked have no desire to pray, but the children of God have a natural desire to pray.

Prayer is described in the Bible as seeking God's favor, pouring out one's soul to the Lord, crying out to heaven, drawing near to God, and kneeling before the Father.

Paul wrote, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6–7). Worry about nothing; pray about everything.

Everything? Yes, God wants us to talk with Him about everything. How often should we pray? The biblical answer is "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). We should keep a running conversation going with God all day long. Some find the ACTS formula of prayer helpful, but there is really no special formula for how to pray in the Bible. We should just do it. We can pray under any and all circumstances. Prayer develops our relationship with God and demonstrates our trust and utter dependence upon Him.

Prayer is the Christian's way of communicating with God. We pray to praise God and thank Him and tell Him how much we love Him. We pray to enjoy His presence and tell Him what is going on in our lives. We pray to make requests and seek guidance and ask for wisdom. God loves this exchange with His children, just as we love the exchange we have with our children. Fellowship with God is the heart of prayer. Too often we lose sight of how simple prayer is really supposed to be.

When we make petitions to God, we let God know exactly where we stand and what we would like to see happen. In our prayers, we must admit that God is greater than we are and ultimately knows what is best in any given situation (Romans 11:33–36). God is good and asks us to trust Him. In prayer, we say, essentially, "Not my will, but your will be done." The key to answered prayer is praying according to the will of God and in accordance with His Word. Prayer is not seeking our own will but seeking to align ourselves with the will of God more fully (1 John 5:14–15; James 4:3). The Bible contains many examples of prayer and plenty of exhortations to pray (see Luke 18:1; Romans 12:12; and Ephesians 6:18). God's house is to be a house of prayer (Mark 11:17), and God's people are to be people of prayer: "Dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God's love" (Jude 1:20–21).

I like to share a short testimony right now. Trust me when I say, the enemy is going to come up against you when you decide to pray, no matter what. We are taught that prayer changes things, and it do. When God gave me this study, nothing happen, but as soon as I start sharing it, may Lord, he (devil) came with force, BUT GOD! God always see us through; I have been through some bad times in this study, but God has been with me through His Presence, and my tenacity to keep praying to Him. As said earlier, in our prayers, we must admit that God is greater than we are and ultimately knows what is best in any given situation. I have learned, and still learning today. Stay in God's Presence through prayer and meditation. I know God will see me through in situation. Let's always "Pray Like Jesus," AMEN.

 

My prayer always for you and whosoever trust in God. The Lord bless all of you, and keep all of you: The Lord make his face shine upon all of you, and be gracious unto all of you: The Lord lift up his countenance upon all of you, and give all of you peace. And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel, and I will bless them.

 

See all of you in the next study

Evangelist Claudia Jordan

BE BACK SOON WITH NEW BIBLE STUDY

This was a great study!

God bless you and keep you,
Evangelist Claudia Jordan
 
 




 

More Scripture Reading:

 

 

 

Ephesians 3:14

For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

 

1 Corinthians 3:16

Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

 

Psalm 25:14-15

¹⁴ The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.

¹⁵ Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net.

 

Romans 8:6

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

BIBLE STUDY: Words of Encouragement

 

 I am the Eternal, I AM; I always have been, and I always will be. In My Presence you experience Love and Light, Peace and Joy. I am intimately involved in all your moments, and I am training you to be aware of Me at all times. Your assignment is to collaborate with Me in this training process. I have taken up residence within you; I am central in your innermost being. You mind goes off in tangents from its holy Center, time after time. Do not be alarmed by your inability to remain focused on Me. Simply bring your thoughts gently back to Me each time they wander. The quickest way to redirect your mind to Me is to whisper My Name. 

More Sharing Week # 10………..

Week # 10                   PRAYER FOCUS:

That the Lord would grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference

Week # 10                   PRAYER REQUEST:

Pray for more of God's Presence to be experienced in your community (online), (personal live), and our nation. (Psalm 16:11; 2 Corinthians 3:17)

 

Week # 10                   THOUGHT4TODAY:

Praise opens the window of our hearts, preparing us to walk more closely with God. Prayer raises the window of our spirit, enabling us to listen more clearly to the Father.

 

Week # 10                   APPLY IT:  A Daily Quiet Time with God

Lord, God Almighty, we come to You on behave of this Prayer Warrior community, and all our  personal communities where we live, and our nation,  right now in Jesus' name, asking that we would experience Your presence, Your joy, and all the good You intended for us. We don't deserve it, but we do ask for it in Jesus' name. Amen.

 

Week # 10                  Reading Assignments……Book of Genesis Chapters 46-50

I enjoyed this reading assignment! Now I am reading the book of Exodus.

Sharing Week # 10 Answers…………..

 

 

Week # 10                   QUESTIONS:

1).        What is the purpose of Jesus interceding for us in Heaven?

I truly believe He cares for the ones He redeemed, and His work for us will never be finished according to His role as the Great Shepherd to His people, and so we can be saved and enter into His Kingdom when life is over.  

2).        What does it mean that Jesus is our mediator?

It means He represents all those who have placed their trust in Him before God's throne of grace. He is constantly telling the Judge, "Your honor, my client is innocent of all charges against him." That is true for us also.

3).        Why did Samuel pray for the people of Israel?

He prayed for them because they had sinned "And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and drew water, and poured it out before the Lord, and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the Lord. And Samuel judged the children of Israel in Mizpeh."

4).        Pray the prayer Apostle Paul prayed for the Ephesians over your family and friends.

Father God, I pray for all my family, both spiritual and natural, and all my friends that You would grant everything they need, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in their hearts by faith; that they, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in all of us. Father God, may all the glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages be Yours, world without end.  Lord, I pray this over all my family and friends, and especially over the Prayer Warriors in this community. AMEN.

BIBLE STUDY: Sharing Week # 10………..

Week # 10       PRIVATE DEVOTIONS TIME: (1 Samuel 7:5)

"And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the Lord."

 

Week # 10       NOTABLE PRAYERS: Apostle Paul (Ephesians 3:14-21; Romans 15:13)

Ephesians 3:14-21 "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ," ¹⁵  Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, ¹⁶ That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; ¹⁷ That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, ¹⁸ May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; ¹⁹ And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. ²⁰ Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, ²¹ Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

 

Romans 15:13 "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost."

BIBLE STUDY: READING

More Scripture Reading:

 

 

John 8:32

And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

 

Philippians 2:13

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

 

John 14:6

Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

 

Psalm 42:8

Yet the Lord will command his lovingkindness in the day time, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.

 

John 8:44

Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

BIBLE STUDY: LET GOD SPEAK TO YOUR HEART

Words of Encouragement: 

 

 

I am the truth: the One who came to set you free. As the Holy Spirit controls your mind and actions more fully, your become free in Me. You are increasingly released to become the one I created you to be. This is a work that I do in your as you yield to My Spirit. I can do My best handiwork when you sit in the stillness of My Presence, focusing your entire being on Me. Let My thoughts burst freely upon your consciousness, stimulating abundant Life. I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. As you follow Me, I lead you along paths of newness: ways have never imagined. Don't worry about what is on the road up ahead. I want you to find your security in knowing Me, the One who died to set you free.

BIBLE STUDY: Week # 9 Sharing…………………..

Week # 9         PRAYER REQUEST:

Pray that Christians across the nation will persists in seeking God's purpose for America beyond the elections, and that God, in His mercy will usher in transforming revival. (Ezekiel 37; Psalm 42:1)

Week # 9         PRAYER FOCUS:

America and all other countries who honor God would stand up now in Jesus' name.  We need to pray together, so God will bring revival in our lives personally.

 Week # 9         THOUGHT4TODAY:

Acknowledge with your heart that I do not condemn you. Then look to Me for My heavenly smile of approval

 

Week # 9         APPLY IT:  A Daily Quiet Time with God

I did pray for my private quiet time, but was so busy couldn't get here to post a prayer for the study, and then posted the wrong answers for this week's study. The enemy has been busy,  BUT GOD!!  I serve an awesome God, amen. Our prayer request for this week is to pray for all Christians across the nations to persist in seeking God's purpose for America and their country wherever they live, amen.  Lord, help us to always pray for our leaders, and those in authority over us, in Jesus' name. I pray for my sons Anthony, Michael, and Savalas today, and all my family and friends. I pray that God would keep us mindful of His will in our lives, amen. Lord, we ask for transforming revivals all over this world in Jesus' name.  Lord, I love my daily quiet time with You, because You strength me in these times, and I am so grateful for that. I need that touch from You. I praise and honor You, Lord Jesus Christ. I pray for Evangelist Ruthie West today and that You would continue to bless her and her family. AMEN.

 

Week # 9    Reading Assignments………………..Book of Genesis Chapters 41-45

I have finished reading the book of Exodus, and what a blessing it was to read those encouraging stories.

BIBLE STUDY: Week # 9 ANSWERS

 

 

1).        Name some things Jesus prayed for concerning His disciples.

Jesus prayed that His disciples would walk in faith, and that faith fail them not; He prayed for their strength, and that they would strengthen their brothers, He prayed that their eyes would be open to know God more clearly, and that they would know Him more too; He prayed to the Father to send them the Holy Ghost to guide and teach them, prayed they see the glory of God, follow the Word of God, be united in the love of God, experience the joy of God, and most of all, He prayed they would go out and spread the Gospel about Him.

 

2).        What is the difference between "The Lord's Prayer" and "The High Priest's Prayer."

The Lord's Prayer……..

This model of prayer is given in two forms (Mt 6:9-13; Lk 11:2-4). The differences of form show that exactness of similarity in words is not essential. The prayer includes adoration, supplication for the Kingdom, for personal needs, for forgiveness, for deliverance from temptation and the ascription of glory. It is at once individual and universal; it sets the recognition of divine things first, and yet clearly asserts the ethical and social relations of life.

The High Priest's Prayer…..

This prayer (John 17) is the special prayer of the Lord, and may be regarded as the sole example furnished by the evangelists of our Lord's method of prayer. The thanksgiving in Matthew 11:25 is the only other instance of any extent in the report of the prayers of Jesus, but even that is brief compared to what is here furnished. The fullness of this prayer clearly shows that it was uttered in the hearing of the disciples. Their relation to it is remarkable. Auditors, they yet could not share in it. At the same time, it was a profound revelation to them both of the relation of the Master to God, and the character of the work which He had come to perform, and the part which they were to take in it. John gives us no hint as to the place in which it was spoken; 14:31 indicates a departure from the upper room. But apparently the prayer was offered where the discourses of John 15 and 16 were delivered. It has been suggested by Westcott that some spot in the temple courts was the scene of John 15; 16 and 17. It has been generally supposed that the ornament of the Golden Vine would naturally suggest the figure of the Vine and Branches which our Lord employs. John 18:1 shows that the prayer was offered before the Lord and His disciples had passed over the brook Kidron. The determination of the exact spot is certainly impossible, except the probability that the words were spoken in the vicinity of the temple. The first part of the prayer (John 17:1-5) is an expression of profound communion between the Son and the Father, and the prayer that the Father should glorify the Son, but with the supreme end of the Father's own glory. The absolutely unique character of Christ's relation to God is the calm assertion of John 17:4. Its consciousness of completeness in the work which He had received from God, impossible for the children of men, marks the supreme nature of the Son of God. In the second part of the prayer (John 17:6-19), our Lord prays for His disciples, to whom He has revealed Himself and His relation to God (John 17:7, 8). He prays that they may be kept by the Father, and for their unity. Their separation from the world is declared (John 17:14), and our Lord prays that they may be kept from the evil that is in the world, which is alien from them as it is from Him. In the third portion of the prayer Christ's relation to His ultimate followers is referred to. Their unity is sought, not an external unity, but the deep, spiritual unity found by the indwelling of Christ in them and God in Christ. The prayer closes by the declaration that Christ's knowledge of the Father is revealed to His people, and the end and crown of all is to be the indwelling of God's love in man by the dwelling of Christ in him. This prayer is unique, not merely among the prayers of our Lord, but also among the prayers of humanity. While it is distinctly a petition, it is at the same time a communion. In one or two places our Lord expresses His will, thus setting Himself upon a level with God. The fact of this prayer of triumph in which every petition is virtually a declaration of the absolute certainty of its realization, immediately preceding the prayer of Gethsemane, is both difficult and suggestive. The anomaly is a powerful argument for the historic reality. The explanation of these contrasted moods is to be found in the depth of our Lord's nature, and especially in the complete consistency of His dual nature with the spheres to which each nature belongs. He is most divine; He is most human. In the fullness of the reach of the prayer and its calm confidence, the believer may find a ceaseless and inexhaustible source of comfort and encouragement. Attention might be called to the remarkable forecast of the history and experience of the church which the prayer furnishes.

 

3).        Explain John chapter seventeen (17) in details.

Question number two will explain that more clearly as to it being a prayer of Jesus.

 

4).        To the best of your knowledge explain the Lord's Prayer.

The Lord's prayer is a covenant or agreement that we are making with our God. We are asking to be blessed with God's heavenly will and to have our needs met. We ask for forgiveness, guidance and the power to carry out our calling. In exchange, we promise to play a part in bringing God's heaven to Earth, to forgive as God forgives, to seek out and follow God's guidance, and use God's unlimited power for God's glory that we too may live in God's Kingdom forever.

BIBLE STUDY: Week # 9 Sharing…………………..

Week # 9         PRIVATE DEVOTIONS TIME: Before: (Matthew 14:23 )

And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.

 

Week # 9         NOTABLE PRAYERS: The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. ¹⁰ Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. ¹¹ Give us this day our daily bread. ¹² And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. ¹³ And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

BIBLE STUDY: WEEK # 9

This Week's Prayer….

 

 

Father, the moment I received Jesus as my Savior, You came to dwell within my heart. I desire to communicate with You through my quiet time daily. I am known by You, and as I have read Your Word and spent time with You, I have come to know You and love You. You are my Father forever and no power in the universe can ever separate us. As Jesus is in You, I am in Him, and we three are one. What a wonder!  What a joy! What a privilege it is to be an actual daughter or son of the living God. I cherish You, Father, I thank You that I am Your child, friend, student, and partner, now and forevermore. Father, just as Your Son Jesus prayed before He made important decisions, I and all community members ask that You help us to make all our decisions today and forever; we will pray to You before we do anything, because we honor You so much. Thank You for all the studies we have studied, now bless us with the understanding of this knowledge we gain through all our studies, so we can use wisdom to do Your will in our lives. Please, Father, bless this community and all members, and their families and all situations, and in every circumstances too. All glory, honor, power, and praise be Yours, in Jesus' name we pray, AMEN

Bible Study: “Praying Like Jesus” Week # 9

PRAYER:

 

 

Lord, teach us to pray, teach us to pray more, teach us to pray in line with Your Word. Lord, You taught Your disciples to pray, and we are so grateful, because they in turn taught us through their faithfulness and leaving the Word for us to learn of Your work on this earth. Thank You for blessing us to learn of You and know of Your faithfulness too. As You taught the disciples, please continue to teach us through Your Holy Spirit. We will bless You O Lord. You are our High Priest and we honor, praise, and thank You, Lord. Thank You for Your prayer over us. Amen.

 

Scriptures:  John 17:9-26; Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:8; John 1:14;

 

Lesson 9: Jesus prayed for his disciples.

The prayer Jesus prayed in John 17 has been called the "high priestly prayer," but it could be also called "The Lord's Prayer." (The prayer commonly known as the Lord's Prayer in Matthew 6 would be better labeled "The Disciple's Prayer", since that is the model we are to pray.) The prayer in John 17 Jesus prayed for his disciples (and for us).  Jesus prayed for the ones he was most invested in. His practice affirms our natural inclination to pray for those closest to us. It echoes almost every element of the model prayer in Matthew 6. Jesus' prayer can show us how to pray for others. Jesus prays for our perseverance as Christians. (17:11, 15, 24) Living the Christian life is hard. How many people do you know that were once active and faithful followers of Christ, but now have drifted away? Jesus prays for our unity. (17:11, 21-23) Twenty centuries of church history demonstrates the importance of this prayer. Why is unity so important? It improves our witness to a watching world, and it brings us together as one to accomplish God's purpose.

Jesus prays for our spiritual satisfaction. (17:13) Struggle and suffering attend the faithful Christian life, and this makes Jesus' prayer for joy that much more poignant. As Augustine is often quoted as saying, "We are restless until we find our rest in God." Jesus prays for the fullness of our joy—that it may completely satisfy us—a joy overflowing, running over kind of thing. Jesus prays for our growth in personal holiness (17:17). We have not yet arrived where we should be in our walk with Christ. Sanctification is that process of making us saints.  Please be patient God is not finished with me yet. We have imputed righteousness—we are declared holy through Christ's saving work, but we need imparted righteousness through the cleansing and character development of the Holy Spirit's work within us. Thus Jesus prays for this process to run its course and accomplish its full effect.

Jesus prays for our witness to those who are not yet Christians. (17:20, Matt. 28:16-20, Acts 1:8) His prayer is that we will fulfill his marching orders to go into the entire world to make disciples of all nations. We are blessed to be a blessing to others. So he prays, "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word." (John 17:20)  That prayer which Jesus prayed for his disciples reaches even to us and sets before us the yearnings of His heart on that sorrowful night. When he could have been thinking of himself, he was praying to the Father for you and me. The Holy Spirit brought this prayer in its perfection back to John's memory. It reveals what Jesus wanted for all His disciples for all time. What it reveals will help us see what great things He had in mind for us who follow him and what He wanted us to do.

Jesus prayed that his disciples would…

See the glory of God

When Jesus prayed to the Father He spoke about glory--the glory of the Father, His glory, and the glory that would rest upon his disciples. I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. (John 17:4) I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: (John 17:22) "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. (John 17:24) "Glory" may describe the light that emits from a star, or an angel, or from God himself. That light is a visible representation of the power, majesty, or greatness of what is glorified. To speak of the glory of God is to know Him for who He is—to see His power and wisdom, His holiness and righteousness, His love, mercy, and compassion, to see His greatness because of all of these things. To see God's glory we must use all our powers of spiritual discernment. And when we do we will see God in all His perfection. Such a vision is the prelude to worship and the motivation of all true service. John said of Jesus, "We beheld His glory…" (Jn. 1:14). Have you seen His glory? Did you see it in this service? Do you see it in your daily life? Jesus prayed that you would!

Follow the word of God

Jesus wanted His disciples to receive the words the Father had given Him. For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. (John 17:8) He knew the power those words would have in theirs lives. In following the word, disciples are sanctified. They are set apart from the world. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. (John 17:17) In following the word, disciples may be hated by the world. I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. (John 17:14) But in following the word, there is hope of eternal life. Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. (John 17:3) Is this how you would describe your life? Is this how we would describe our congregational life? Are we a people who are committed to follow the word wherever it leads us? Will we take a stand against the world's values even if it means persecution? Will we place our hopes on it? Jesus prayed that we would!

Be united in the love of God

My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. (John 17:20-23) What Jesus was praying for was not merely an intellectual agreement on a few distinctive doctrinal issues. Instead he was looking for a unity that shares the character of God. This "I in you and you in me" language refers to the shared glory of God's holiness. Get that right and the doctrine will take care of itself. When we want to be like God and Jesus more than anything else, we will know His truth. But in addition, when we are drawn to God's holiness and want to know Him and be like Him, we are the beneficiaries of His special love. Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." (John 14:21) What a motivation to seek God and obey Him!—that we might be united in His love, a family who loves Him and wants to be like Him. Does this describe you and me? Jesus prayed that it would!

Go forth in the mission of God

As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. (John 17:18) Jesus sent forth his disciples with a mission—to make more disciples. What He here prayed for He later commanded of them. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20) He sent them to show God's glory to a world ignorant of God. He sent them to reveal His truth to a world in darkness. He sent them to bring together a world divided by hatred and sin and bring them into the one body. And they did. How about us? Jesus prayed that we would!

Experience the joy of God

"I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of my joy within them. (John 17:13) When all these things are taken together we begin to see that Christian joy is the product of all these things: Knowing God, obeying God, loving each other, helping others be saved. If we do not know the joy of God, it may because we lack one of these in our lives. But where we are committed to all of them, there will be the fullness of joy. Do we have such joy in our lives? Jesus prayed that we would!

Conclusion: What a vision Jesus had for his disciples, and for us! The time has come to embrace the vision, to see that if this is not the life we're living, then the prayer of Jesus has no answer in us.

 

It must be applied personally.

 

Week # 9         PRIVATE DEVOTIONS TIME:  (John 11:41)

Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.

 

Week # 9         NOTABLE PRAYERS: The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13)

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. ¹⁰ Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. ¹¹ Give us this day our daily bread. ¹² And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. ¹³ And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

 

Week # 9         QUESTIONS:

1).        Name some things Jesus prayed for concerning His disciples.

2).        What is the difference between "The Lord's Prayer" and "The High Priest's Prayer."

3).        Explain John chapter seventeen (17) in details.

4).        To the best of your knowledge explain the Lord's Prayer.

 

Week # 9         PRAYER REQUEST:

Pray that Christians across the nation will persists in seeking God's purpose for America beyond the elections, and that God, in His mercy will usher in transforming revival. (Ezekiel 37; Psalm 42:1)

Week # 9         PRAYER FOCUS:

America and all other countries who honor God would stand up now in Jesus' name.  We need to pray together, so God will bring revival in our lives personally.

 

Week # 9         THOUGHT4TODAY:

Pray without ceasing

 

Week # 9         APPLY IT:  A Daily Quiet Time with God

 

Week # 9    Reading Assignments………………..Book of Genesis Chapters 41-45

Bible Study: Week # 8 Sharing

Words of Encouragement:

As you get out of bed in the morning, be aware of My Presence with you. You may not be thinking clearly yet, but I am. Your early morning thoughts tend to be anxious ones until you get connected with Me. Invite Me into your decision making and thoughts by whispering My Name. Suddenly your day brightens and feels more user-friendly. You cannot dread a day that is vibrant with My Presence. Your gain confidence through knowing that I am with you, that you face nothing alone. Anxiety stems from asking the wrong question: "If such and such happens, can I handle it?" The true question is not whether you can cope with whatever happens, but whether you and I together can handle anything that occurs. It is this you-and-I-together factor that gives you confidence to face the day all the decision making cheerfully.

 

More Scripture Reading:

 

Psalm 5:3

My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.

 

Psalm 63:1

O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;

 

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

 

Philippians 2:13

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

Bible Study: Sharing

Week # 8         PRAYER FOCUS:

To be led by the Holy Spirit in all my decisions making after I have prayed to the Father for guidance.

 

Week # 8         PRAYER REQUEST:

Pray that those candidates who know Christ would openly and courageously speak of their faith and stand firm on their biblical principles. (Matthew 5:13-16)

 

Week # 8         APPLY IT:  A Daily Quiet Time with God

Father God of heaven and earth, who created all things for Your good pleasure, we come to You in the Name of Jesus Your loving Son, asking You to bless the right candidate for this position to stand for holiness and righteousness for Your glory. We need a holy person to be in office to lead this nation for Your glory. Help us as Christian to stand up and pray, so that our nation will not go under any longer. Please, Father God, look on us today with Your favor, look on us with Your love, Your care as we know You to be. We remind You of Your favor You showed the Israelites in Bible days, they sinned, but You loved them so much, and forgive them and brought them out with a stretched our arm. Father God, our country need help today like never before. Help all leaders to open speak of their faith in You, not standing back or standing down to unrighteousness, in Jesus' name. Bless all to stand firm in biblical principles for the sake of all, especially the next generation. We thank You, and praise You for answering all our prayers in Your good time, because You know all things. Thank You, Lord, AMEN.

 

Week # 8         THOUGHT4TODAY:

Your prayers need not be pretty or proper. Just bring your petitions to Me.

 

Week # 8         Reading Assignments………………..Book of Genesis Chapters 36-40

I have finished my weekly assignment

Bible Study: Answers

Week # 8         QUESTIONS:

1).        Can you name some decisions Jesus had to make?

Yes, I can, Jesus made important decisions, like worshipping God instead of the devil, praying to His Father all the time, honoring His earthly parents, to be baptized by John the Baptist, to answer His divine calling, and to die for the world.

                                                                    

2).        Why would Jesus pray all night?

He knew the opposition against him was strong. It would finally result in his crucifixion.  He needed the strength to face the path that lay ahead of him.  He wanted the father's guidance as he selected the twelve disciples. They would carry his message after he was gone. They were the future of the church. It has been said that the most important decision in any organization are the people decisions. These men were essential to Jesus' mission and purpose on earth.  He knew that strategic decision required longer time to process.

 

3).        Why is praying before making a decision is important to us?

Prayer keeps us in tune with God's will and God's purpose. It is important to know (God's) will and His purpose He want to accomplish in our life and the world.

 

 

4).        What kind of prayer was Habakkuk's prayer in (Habakkuk 3:1-19)

This is a worship song to God to remind Him of His awesome deliverance of His people from Egypt, and a devotion to God's attributes. It was a song of praise and honor to God in the form of a prayer.

Week # 8 Sharing

Sharing………

Week # 8         PRIVATE DEVOTIONS TIME: At His Baptism (Luke 3:21)

"Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,"

Week # 8         NOTABLE PRAYERS: Habakkuk (Habakkuk 3:1-19)

"A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet upon Shigionoth" read 

Bible Study: This Week's Prayer

 

 

Father, the moment I received Jesus as my Savior, You came to dwell within my heart. I desire to communicate with You through my quiet time daily. I am known by You, and as I have read Your Word and spent time with You, I have come to know You and love You. You are my Father forever and no power in the universe can ever separate us. As Jesus is in You, I am in Him, and we three are one. What a wonder!  What a joy! What a privilege it is to be an actual daughter or son of the living God. I cherish You, Father, I thank You that I am Your child, friend, student, and partner, now and forevermore. Father, just as Your Son Jesus prayed before He made important decisions, I and all community members ask that You help us to make all our decisions today and forever; we will pray to You before we do anything, because we honor You so much. Thank You for all the studies we have studied, now bless us with the understanding of this knowledge we gain through all our studies, so we can use wisdom to do Your will in our lives. Please, Father, bless this community and all members, and their families and all situations, and in every circumstances too. All glory, honor, power, and praise be Yours, in Jesus' name we pray, AMEN.