Sometimes we challenge things. Jesus’ disciples questioned why many things happened. There were the parables the disciple’s did not understand, and they questioned Jesus; There were situations they saw as they traveled, and they questioned Jesus. (Mk 4:10; Jn 9:2) Sometimes they thought that perhaps things were not in the best interest of Jesus and his band of disciples, like when a Canaanite woman came to him with a request. The disciples said, “send her away.” (Mt 15:23).
Sometimes there is some desperation to have something done. The disciples begged Jesus to heal Peter’s mother in law (Lk 4:38). The people of the Gerarenes begged Jesus to depart from them after they saw the demons go into the pigs. (lk 8:37)
Jesus challenged his disciples with questions: "Who do people say that I am?" (Mt 15:23; 16:13) He challenged them to do things (Lk 5:3)
In the world, we challenge each other, sometimes it is for the best, sometimes it is not. Sometimes it is because we don't understand, sometimes it is because we do not like what we understand. Sometimes it is just because we want something. Other times it is because we need something. The word There were the parables the disciple’s did not understand, and they questioned Jesus. The word ἐρωτάω is used often in our Bible.
The word ἐρωτάω is also used in Prayer. The rich man challenges God to send Lazarus to his house to warn his family about the consequences of not following God (Lk 16:27).
In the Bible most of the ἐρωτάω prayers are uttered by Jesus (Jn 14:16; 16:23, 26; 17:9, 15, 20). The ἐρωτάω prayer of Jesus is a strong prayer, because there is a strong need. It is a challenge (appeal) to meet the need.
And our God who is faithful, indeed meets the need. We can pray the ἐρωτάω also, and God hears.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Prayer - ἐντυγχάνω - Hitting the Mark
ἐντυγχάνω – entygchanō
In 1307, Herman Gessler, a newly appointed Austrian Vogt raised a pole in the village square of Burglen and demanded that all the local townspeople bow before it. A man named William Tell passed by without bowing and was arrested. William Tell had a reputation as an expert marksman with the crossbow, so he was challenged to shoot an apple off the head of his son, Walter. William Tell accepted the challenge, loaded his crossbow, and with one shot, hit the mark and split the apple which had been placed on the head of his son. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpGZM3Kf1yw)
The pray of entygchanō is the prayer of “hitting the mark.” Paul would say, “I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.” (1 Cor 9:26). Our prayers should be specific, well aimed, so we can hit the mark.
This pattern of prayer begins with God. That is the best place to learn about prayer. We see the pattern of ἐντυγχάνω prayer in Jesus Christ who is our High Priest.
“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:23-25
The Priest is an intercessor for common people. In the Old Testament the Priest offers sacrifices for Dedication, Fellowship, and Sin offerings to help man build a relationship with God. If we come to a Priest and ask what kind of offering they will advise, the best they can do for us is only surface deep, and that does not always do what is necessary.
Christ, however is our faithful High Priest who knows us even as we are known. It was Christ who created us (Col 1:16), and who knows our frame and personality (Ps 139:13). Christ knows our ways (John 4:17-18) and our thoughts. As Christ intercedes for us, He prays exactly for those things we need. He knows the problems we face, the solutions we need, the gifts we are given and the ministry to which we are supposed to be involved. He knows every weakness and how it needs healing. He forgives our sins and can restore us. Christ is the perfect High Priest.
“Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” Ro 8:34-35
The Holy Spirit, likewise prays for us. “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” (Ro 8:26-27) The Gospel of John tells us the Spirit is our Comforter (John 15:26); Teacher (John 14:26); Protector (John 14:16-18); and Convictor (John 16:8-10).
This is the pattern of “hitting the mark” as we pray. It is knowing people and solutions; it is seeking God to really know people and situations as well as the will of God. Elijah “appealed to God against Israel: ‘Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me’ ? And what was God's answer to him? "I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. (Ro 11:2-6)
Entygchanō Prayer begins with concern for people, and knowing them and their needs. This prayer includes seeking the face of God so we will know all situations; and concludes with praying specifically for people so we know when the prayer is answered and the target is obtained.
In 1307, Herman Gessler, a newly appointed Austrian Vogt raised a pole in the village square of Burglen and demanded that all the local townspeople bow before it. A man named William Tell passed by without bowing and was arrested. William Tell had a reputation as an expert marksman with the crossbow, so he was challenged to shoot an apple off the head of his son, Walter. William Tell accepted the challenge, loaded his crossbow, and with one shot, hit the mark and split the apple which had been placed on the head of his son. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpGZM3Kf1yw)
The pray of entygchanō is the prayer of “hitting the mark.” Paul would say, “I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.” (1 Cor 9:26). Our prayers should be specific, well aimed, so we can hit the mark.
This pattern of prayer begins with God. That is the best place to learn about prayer. We see the pattern of ἐντυγχάνω prayer in Jesus Christ who is our High Priest.
“Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Hebrews 7:23-25
The Priest is an intercessor for common people. In the Old Testament the Priest offers sacrifices for Dedication, Fellowship, and Sin offerings to help man build a relationship with God. If we come to a Priest and ask what kind of offering they will advise, the best they can do for us is only surface deep, and that does not always do what is necessary.
Christ, however is our faithful High Priest who knows us even as we are known. It was Christ who created us (Col 1:16), and who knows our frame and personality (Ps 139:13). Christ knows our ways (John 4:17-18) and our thoughts. As Christ intercedes for us, He prays exactly for those things we need. He knows the problems we face, the solutions we need, the gifts we are given and the ministry to which we are supposed to be involved. He knows every weakness and how it needs healing. He forgives our sins and can restore us. Christ is the perfect High Priest.
“Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died--more than that, who was raised to life--is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?” Ro 8:34-35
The Holy Spirit, likewise prays for us. “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.” (Ro 8:26-27) The Gospel of John tells us the Spirit is our Comforter (John 15:26); Teacher (John 14:26); Protector (John 14:16-18); and Convictor (John 16:8-10).
This is the pattern of “hitting the mark” as we pray. It is knowing people and solutions; it is seeking God to really know people and situations as well as the will of God. Elijah “appealed to God against Israel: ‘Lord, they have killed your prophets and torn down your altars; I am the only one left, and they are trying to kill me’ ? And what was God's answer to him? "I have reserved for myself seven thousand who have not bowed the knee to Baal." So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace. And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. (Ro 11:2-6)
Entygchanō Prayer begins with concern for people, and knowing them and their needs. This prayer includes seeking the face of God so we will know all situations; and concludes with praying specifically for people so we know when the prayer is answered and the target is obtained.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Prayer - αἰτέω - Begging
αἰτέω – aiteō
1SA 2:7 The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.
1SA 2:8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor.
"For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world.
1SA 2:9 He will guard the feet of his saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness.
Aiteō is the prayer of Begging. Out of an inner need, a desire or a requirement, we beg God for something. This is not a simple asking, but it is more. Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Mt 7:7-12
People beg for many things out of desperation. Zechariah begged for a table so he could name his son John (Lk 1:63). James and John (Mk 10:35) and their mother (Mk 10:35) begged Jesus to seat them on his right and left. The multitude begged Pilate for Barabbas (Mt 27:20); and Joseph of Aramathea begged Pilate for the body of Jesus (Mt 27:58). The warden in Philippi begged for a light to see if the prisoners escaped (Ac 16:29). Paul begged that Christians might be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Col. 1:9)
PS 72:12 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.
PS 72:13 He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.
The lame man at the Temple begged for money – and the Lord gave him legs to walk on. (Ac 3:2) God is able to do immeasurably more than all we beg for or imagine. (Eph 3:20) The Lord wants us to pray out of need just like the beggar.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. (James 1:2-6)
JAS 4:2 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
There are some wonderful prayer promises in the Gospel of John. Note the Promises and the Conditions:
John 14:13 I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.
John 14:14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
John 15:16 ... I … appointed you to go and bear fruit … the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:23 ... I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
John 16:26-27 In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. (See 1 Jn 3:22; 5:14-16)
MK 11:22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
1SA 2:7 The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.
1SA 2:8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap;
he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor.
"For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world.
1SA 2:9 He will guard the feet of his saints, but the wicked will be silenced in darkness.
Aiteō is the prayer of Begging. Out of an inner need, a desire or a requirement, we beg God for something. This is not a simple asking, but it is more. Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” Mt 7:7-12
People beg for many things out of desperation. Zechariah begged for a table so he could name his son John (Lk 1:63). James and John (Mk 10:35) and their mother (Mk 10:35) begged Jesus to seat them on his right and left. The multitude begged Pilate for Barabbas (Mt 27:20); and Joseph of Aramathea begged Pilate for the body of Jesus (Mt 27:58). The warden in Philippi begged for a light to see if the prisoners escaped (Ac 16:29). Paul begged that Christians might be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. (Col. 1:9)
PS 72:12 For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.
PS 72:13 He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death.
The lame man at the Temple begged for money – and the Lord gave him legs to walk on. (Ac 3:2) God is able to do immeasurably more than all we beg for or imagine. (Eph 3:20) The Lord wants us to pray out of need just like the beggar.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. (James 1:2-6)
JAS 4:2 You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.
There are some wonderful prayer promises in the Gospel of John. Note the Promises and the Conditions:
John 14:13 I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.
John 14:14 You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
John 15:7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.
John 15:16 ... I … appointed you to go and bear fruit … the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:23 ... I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
John 16:24 Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.
John 16:26-27 In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. (See 1 Jn 3:22; 5:14-16)
MK 11:22 "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. 23 "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, `Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Prayer - δέησις – Really Praying
δέησις – deēsis
As we pray today, what are we willing to give up? What do I mean, well, let’s examine these occurrences:
1. Zacharias – Luke 1:8-13 – Once in a lifetime opportunity. Time in preparation, prayer, study, fasting. This opportunity was so special, he gave up everything to be prepared.
2. Anna – Luke 2:36-37 – “departed not from the Temple” Loved God so much she gave all her time to the Lord and prayer.
3. Father of son with seizures – Luke 9:37-43. He sought out disciples, then Jesus. His investment included research, time and travel.
4. Cornelius – Acts 10:1-5 – He dedicated life to God, gave money, wanted to please God. He so love the Lord he prayed often and was willing to give up his reputation to admit he believed.
5. Paul – Romans 9:1-4 & 10:1– Cared for his people so much he was willing to give up everything, including his life.
Deēsis is the prayer that includes sacrifice.
All too often in this life we “stop in” to pray. We live a fast paced, hectic lifestyle, and we are not willing to fully stop and commit ourselves to prayer. When you desire something, how often do you spend two or three hours in prayer? How often do you fast? What do you give up for the cause? Do you care enough about loved ones to go out of your way to witness, or do you just share a word or two when it is convenient? (I wonder if that is why some are not saved? What is a life worth?)
Deēsis is often included in a list with other types of prayer – Ac 1:14; Eph 6:18; Phil 4:6; 1 Tim 2:1. We will study these other types of prayers later.
Deēsis in its root form can mean “to bind or fasten with chains;” and “to put under obligation of the law, duty, etc; to be bound to a spouse.”
Deēsis gives way to (James 5:16) fervent prayer. Prayer that is (1 Tim 5:5) day and night. The prayer of (Eph 6:18) perseverance.
Jesus prayed this type of prayer (Lk 22:32); as did Paul for each of the churches he started (Phil. 1:4). They were like his children. We should pray this type of prayer as we pray for the Lost (1 Cor 5:20), and as we pray for VBS workers (Luke 10:2).
The scripture tells us: For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
As we pray today, what are we willing to give up? What do I mean, well, let’s examine these occurrences:
1. Zacharias – Luke 1:8-13 – Once in a lifetime opportunity. Time in preparation, prayer, study, fasting. This opportunity was so special, he gave up everything to be prepared.
2. Anna – Luke 2:36-37 – “departed not from the Temple” Loved God so much she gave all her time to the Lord and prayer.
3. Father of son with seizures – Luke 9:37-43. He sought out disciples, then Jesus. His investment included research, time and travel.
4. Cornelius – Acts 10:1-5 – He dedicated life to God, gave money, wanted to please God. He so love the Lord he prayed often and was willing to give up his reputation to admit he believed.
5. Paul – Romans 9:1-4 & 10:1– Cared for his people so much he was willing to give up everything, including his life.
Deēsis is the prayer that includes sacrifice.
All too often in this life we “stop in” to pray. We live a fast paced, hectic lifestyle, and we are not willing to fully stop and commit ourselves to prayer. When you desire something, how often do you spend two or three hours in prayer? How often do you fast? What do you give up for the cause? Do you care enough about loved ones to go out of your way to witness, or do you just share a word or two when it is convenient? (I wonder if that is why some are not saved? What is a life worth?)
Deēsis is often included in a list with other types of prayer – Ac 1:14; Eph 6:18; Phil 4:6; 1 Tim 2:1. We will study these other types of prayers later.
Deēsis in its root form can mean “to bind or fasten with chains;” and “to put under obligation of the law, duty, etc; to be bound to a spouse.”
Deēsis gives way to (James 5:16) fervent prayer. Prayer that is (1 Tim 5:5) day and night. The prayer of (Eph 6:18) perseverance.
Jesus prayed this type of prayer (Lk 22:32); as did Paul for each of the churches he started (Phil. 1:4). They were like his children. We should pray this type of prayer as we pray for the Lost (1 Cor 5:20), and as we pray for VBS workers (Luke 10:2).
The scripture tells us: For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Prayer - ἐπικαλέω – Calling Upon God
ἐπικαλέω – epikaleō
Literally this word means to “call upon.” On the human side, it means the name I “call upon” for you. Various people in the Bible were called upon by surnames: Lebbaeus was surnamed Thaddaeus (A man of heart – surnamed the one who confesses; Mt 10:13); Judas – Iscariot (From the town of Kerioth; Lk 22:3); Joses – Barnabas (Son of Encouragement; Ac 4:36); Simon – Peter (the Rock; Acts 10:5). The name is important.
Names are important. For if you are going to call upon a name to help you, it must be a good name. Paul called upon the name of Caesar (Ac 25:11-12, 21, 25; 26:32; 28:19) when he was falsely accused. Paul knew that a lower officer of Rome could do nothing, so he appealed to the highest name in the kingdom.
This sets the stage for epikaleo prayer, a prayer for unbelievers, and those who believe.
Why do we need to “call upon” the Lord? It is first of all because we need Salvation. “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (Ro 1:12-15)
“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” (Acts 22:16)
As believers we are identified as those who call the name as our strength (Acts 9:21; 15:15; 1 Cor 1:2; Heb 11:16).
We need help when life presses in upon us: “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Tim 2:22. We need the name when facing death (Acts 7:59). We need God to come alongside us and be our witness when under attack (2 Cor 1:23).
“Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. (1 Peter 1:17-19)
As we pray this prayer, we recognize the name of God, we recognize the Greatness of God, and we call upon Him.
Literally this word means to “call upon.” On the human side, it means the name I “call upon” for you. Various people in the Bible were called upon by surnames: Lebbaeus was surnamed Thaddaeus (A man of heart – surnamed the one who confesses; Mt 10:13); Judas – Iscariot (From the town of Kerioth; Lk 22:3); Joses – Barnabas (Son of Encouragement; Ac 4:36); Simon – Peter (the Rock; Acts 10:5). The name is important.
Names are important. For if you are going to call upon a name to help you, it must be a good name. Paul called upon the name of Caesar (Ac 25:11-12, 21, 25; 26:32; 28:19) when he was falsely accused. Paul knew that a lower officer of Rome could do nothing, so he appealed to the highest name in the kingdom.
This sets the stage for epikaleo prayer, a prayer for unbelievers, and those who believe.
Why do we need to “call upon” the Lord? It is first of all because we need Salvation. “For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" (Ro 1:12-15)
“And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.” (Acts 22:16)
As believers we are identified as those who call the name as our strength (Acts 9:21; 15:15; 1 Cor 1:2; Heb 11:16).
We need help when life presses in upon us: “Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Tim 2:22. We need the name when facing death (Acts 7:59). We need God to come alongside us and be our witness when under attack (2 Cor 1:23).
“Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. (1 Peter 1:17-19)
As we pray this prayer, we recognize the name of God, we recognize the Greatness of God, and we call upon Him.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Prayer - שָׁאַל - sha'al
שָׁאַל - sha'al
Sha’al is the prayer asking. This prayer is not the prayer of begging God in desperation. It is not the prayer of asking God to judge in my favor (and against someone else). This is a prayer of requests. Through prayer we ask God for small favors; we can ask God for guidance in decisions; or we can ask God for wisdom.
Observe how this request is used in Scripture. This is the prayer that asks God for rain in Spring time; not in the midst of the drought – when we are desperate, but in the Spring – as a continuation of the good rains that God is already bringing. (Zec. 10:1) This prayer is not just a request for rain, but a thanks in recognition of the God who gives rain and refreshes the earth. The prayer can also be a thanks for refreshing in our personal lives, recognizing God’s continual presence and expressing a desire to continue in the relationship.
This is the prayer of desire to know more about God. Through this prayer we spend time with God, seeking to know Him better. God tells us, “ask from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything so great as this ever happened” (Dt 4:32-34). God wants us to know of His work and His wonders. Through this prayer we acknowledge God’s greatness and glory. God wants us to ask Him “His Name,” (Ge 32:29) and through this get a glimpse of His Personality.
The Prayer of asking should be used to help us make decisions – not just in times of crisis, but to make decisions for the future. King David regularly asked God for guidance. (1 Sam. 5:19). God told Ahaz to ask for guidance, even to the point of requesting a sign; (Isa 7:11) but this king who relied on himself – refused.
God wants us to seek Him. God wants to guide us in all things. God gave the priest the Urim and Thummim to inquire of Him. God gives us prayer and His word to ask of Him. God wants us to ask of Him; He says, “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.” (Ps. 2:8)
The prayer of asking includes asking for good things – for others (Pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Ps 122:6), and for ourselves (One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. – Ps 27:4).
The Lord wants to provide for us….
PS 105:40 They asked, and he brought them quail and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.
PS 105:41 He opened the rock, and water gushed out; like a river it flowed in the desert.
PS 105:42 For he remembered his holy promise given to his servant Abraham.
PS 105:43 He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
PS 105:44 he gave them the lands of the nations, and they fell heir to what others had toiled for—
PS 105:45 that they might keep his precepts and observe his laws.
However, There is a condition …The Lord wants us to walk in all His ways, love Him and serve Him. God desires to give blessings to those who love Him with all their heart and with all their soul, observing the Lord’s commands and decrees because that is the desire of their hearts. “This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jer 6:16)
Sha’al is the prayer asking. This prayer is not the prayer of begging God in desperation. It is not the prayer of asking God to judge in my favor (and against someone else). This is a prayer of requests. Through prayer we ask God for small favors; we can ask God for guidance in decisions; or we can ask God for wisdom.
Observe how this request is used in Scripture. This is the prayer that asks God for rain in Spring time; not in the midst of the drought – when we are desperate, but in the Spring – as a continuation of the good rains that God is already bringing. (Zec. 10:1) This prayer is not just a request for rain, but a thanks in recognition of the God who gives rain and refreshes the earth. The prayer can also be a thanks for refreshing in our personal lives, recognizing God’s continual presence and expressing a desire to continue in the relationship.
This is the prayer of desire to know more about God. Through this prayer we spend time with God, seeking to know Him better. God tells us, “ask from one end of the heavens to the other. Has anything so great as this ever happened” (Dt 4:32-34). God wants us to know of His work and His wonders. Through this prayer we acknowledge God’s greatness and glory. God wants us to ask Him “His Name,” (Ge 32:29) and through this get a glimpse of His Personality.
The Prayer of asking should be used to help us make decisions – not just in times of crisis, but to make decisions for the future. King David regularly asked God for guidance. (1 Sam. 5:19). God told Ahaz to ask for guidance, even to the point of requesting a sign; (Isa 7:11) but this king who relied on himself – refused.
God wants us to seek Him. God wants to guide us in all things. God gave the priest the Urim and Thummim to inquire of Him. God gives us prayer and His word to ask of Him. God wants us to ask of Him; He says, “Ask of me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession.” (Ps. 2:8)
The prayer of asking includes asking for good things – for others (Pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Ps 122:6), and for ourselves (One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. – Ps 27:4).
The Lord wants to provide for us….
PS 105:40 They asked, and he brought them quail and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.
PS 105:41 He opened the rock, and water gushed out; like a river it flowed in the desert.
PS 105:42 For he remembered his holy promise given to his servant Abraham.
PS 105:43 He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
PS 105:44 he gave them the lands of the nations, and they fell heir to what others had toiled for—
PS 105:45 that they might keep his precepts and observe his laws.
However, There is a condition …The Lord wants us to walk in all His ways, love Him and serve Him. God desires to give blessings to those who love Him with all their heart and with all their soul, observing the Lord’s commands and decrees because that is the desire of their hearts. “This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Jer 6:16)
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Prayer - זָעַק - za`aq
זָעַק - za`aq
There are many things in life we cannot do alone. We all need help in times of desperation, or when things get too big to handle. The word za`aq means to call to one’s aid. Za`aq can be a call to assembly, a call to join together, a shriek; a call out to someone or a proclamation.
Ancient Israel was a nation constantly under attack from outside forces. The people suffered in bondage under foreign invaders. Under domination, the people cried out for help. The first time we hear the Hebrew people cry out is when they are in bondage to the Egyptians in Exodus 2:23. The Hebrew people also cry out in Judges 3:9 to God who raised up Othniel; in Judges 3:15 God raised up Ehud; In Judges 6:6-7 God raised up Gideon; In Judges 10 God raised up Jephthah. In 1 Samuel 5:10, the people of Israel call upon the Ark of God.
Herein is a problem. We as people look to our own strength, or to our own inventions to save us in times of distress. We seek to figure things out ourselves rather than trusting God. The Bible tells us to Love the LORD our God with all our heart and with all our soul and with all our strength. The Lord’s help begins out of a Love relationship. In our relationship we “pray without ceasing;” we trust the Lord in everything; we let the Lord be our Shepherd and guide us. All of this comes first, and out of lifestyle. Then when help is needed, we are trained to cry out to God first.
All too often, people do not look to God. People cry out to others for help. Barak cried to Zebulun (Judges 4:10); Sisera cried to his chariots (Judges 4:13). The question comes, when you are in trouble, who do you cry out to? One of the natural things in life is to ask help of those we know, those we think can help us. At the beginning of life we call out to our mothers and fathers to give assistance, whether food, or protection, or whatever. But there are situations where people can not help.
When others can not help, people look to other things to help. In the Old Testament, some people cried out to idols (Isa. 57:13; Jer 11:12; Hos 7::14; Jonah 1:5). Today, when in desperation, man cries out to his idols: money; government; medicine; and many other things. But we need to realize ultimately our trust should be in the Lord. In desperation, we need to cry to God First and foremost.
David teaches us the lessons of prayer in Ps 142. King David cries to the Lord, and to the Lord alone. No matter who or what is the problem, David takes it to the Lord in prayer. There were many other places King David could have taken his requests (after all he was the king); however Only God knows the King’s path – past and future. The Lord has cared and will care for David’s soul. The Lord is David’s refuge. The Lord is David’s portion in the land of the Living. David’s choice was to cry to the Lord first, and not last. When we cry to the Lord – the Lord delivers us out of our distress (Ps 107:19).
There are many things in life we cannot do alone. We all need help in times of desperation, or when things get too big to handle. The word za`aq means to call to one’s aid. Za`aq can be a call to assembly, a call to join together, a shriek; a call out to someone or a proclamation.
Ancient Israel was a nation constantly under attack from outside forces. The people suffered in bondage under foreign invaders. Under domination, the people cried out for help. The first time we hear the Hebrew people cry out is when they are in bondage to the Egyptians in Exodus 2:23. The Hebrew people also cry out in Judges 3:9 to God who raised up Othniel; in Judges 3:15 God raised up Ehud; In Judges 6:6-7 God raised up Gideon; In Judges 10 God raised up Jephthah. In 1 Samuel 5:10, the people of Israel call upon the Ark of God.
Herein is a problem. We as people look to our own strength, or to our own inventions to save us in times of distress. We seek to figure things out ourselves rather than trusting God. The Bible tells us to Love the LORD our God with all our heart and with all our soul and with all our strength. The Lord’s help begins out of a Love relationship. In our relationship we “pray without ceasing;” we trust the Lord in everything; we let the Lord be our Shepherd and guide us. All of this comes first, and out of lifestyle. Then when help is needed, we are trained to cry out to God first.
All too often, people do not look to God. People cry out to others for help. Barak cried to Zebulun (Judges 4:10); Sisera cried to his chariots (Judges 4:13). The question comes, when you are in trouble, who do you cry out to? One of the natural things in life is to ask help of those we know, those we think can help us. At the beginning of life we call out to our mothers and fathers to give assistance, whether food, or protection, or whatever. But there are situations where people can not help.
When others can not help, people look to other things to help. In the Old Testament, some people cried out to idols (Isa. 57:13; Jer 11:12; Hos 7::14; Jonah 1:5). Today, when in desperation, man cries out to his idols: money; government; medicine; and many other things. But we need to realize ultimately our trust should be in the Lord. In desperation, we need to cry to God First and foremost.
David teaches us the lessons of prayer in Ps 142. King David cries to the Lord, and to the Lord alone. No matter who or what is the problem, David takes it to the Lord in prayer. There were many other places King David could have taken his requests (after all he was the king); however Only God knows the King’s path – past and future. The Lord has cared and will care for David’s soul. The Lord is David’s refuge. The Lord is David’s portion in the land of the Living. David’s choice was to cry to the Lord first, and not last. When we cry to the Lord – the Lord delivers us out of our distress (Ps 107:19).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
