Do we need any more arguments than these to become intercessors– that Christ “always lives to make intercession” (Hebrews 7:25), and that the Holy Spirit “makes intercession for the saints”? Are we living in such a relationship with others that we do the work of intercession as a result of being the children of God who are taught by His Spirit? We should take a look at our current circumstances. Do crises which affect us or others in our home, business, country, or elsewhere, seem to be crushing in on us? Are we being pushed out of the presence of God and left with no time for worship? If so, we must put a stop to such distractions and get into such a living relationship with God that our relationship with others is maintained through the work of intercession, where God works His miracles.Beware of getting ahead of God by your very desire to do His will. We run ahead of Him in a thousand and one activities, becoming so burdened with people and problems that we don’t worship God, and we fail to intercede. If a burden and its resulting pressure come upon us while we are not in an attitude of worship, it will only produce a hardness toward God and despair in our own souls. God continually introduces us to people in whom we have no interest, and unless we are worshiping God the natural tendency is to be heartless toward them. We give them a quick verse of Scripture, like jabbing them with a spear, or leave them with a hurried, uncaring word of counsel before we go. A heartless Christian must be a terrible grief to our Lord.Are our lives in the proper place so that we may participate in the intercession of our Lord and the Holy Spirit?

______________________________________________________________

 

April 1, 2015

Journal Entry for April 1 2015

Lord, thank you for this lesson about keeping my heart in the right place so that I can be engaged in intercessory prayer. And more than that, you reminded us that we cannot even pray in the right frame of mind unless we are connected to Jesus; surrendered, connected, curious, expectant and obedient. Yesterday I tried to remember to be connected at every endeavor. Whether it was a “spiritual”, personal (how can I even think about separating this from “spiritual”), commercial (my work) or others directed thought, attitude, or prayerful thought.  And while I cannot say that I was connected the entire day, I do recall that peace that passes all understanding prevailed.

And God says…”I came to give you life and life more abundantly.  Your peace is not based on your circumstances, or the outcomes of your prayers and petitions. You peace is based on allowing Jesus to live through you.  You have had lesson after lesson about what it is that gives you the peace that passes all understanding. It is not the cushion of your bank account, the security of your job or family or even the life partner you have sought. The peace and happiness you have experienced comes form living in your surrendered connection with Jesus. Seek first the kingdom of God, which is Jesus, and I will provide everything else you require. Delight yourself in the Lord, and I will give you the desires of your heart. Acknowledge Me in all your ways and I will make your paths straight.”