S.O.A.P. 30 Day Challenge – Day #19, September 19, 2023 “Serving the Lord Through Loss.”

S. Luke 2:36-37 (NIV) “There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel of the tribe of Asher.  She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshipped night and day, fasting and praying.”

O. I am impressed with the prophet, Anna. It looks like her husband may have died early on in their marriage and she then dedicated herself completely to the Lord’s service. While some people might be looking for a new mate, others such as Anna, totally commit themselves to the Lord’s service, which is also commended by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 7.

A. I’m thankful to have Michelle along with me in our service to the Lord. It is my prayer that we can remain as committed to the Lord’s service as Anna’s example – whether together or on our own should the Lord take one of us home. 

P. Thank you Lord for Anna’s example. Through the loss of her husband, Anna remained focused in continuing to serve the Lord in her ministry as a prophetess. Holy Spirit I pray that I too might have the same type of focus and resolve in serving. In Jesus’ name I pray.

Posted on September 19, 2023 .

S.O.A.P. 30 Day Challenge – Day #18, September 18, 2023 “God’s Word Never Fails.”

S. Luke 1:37 (NIV) “For no word from God will ever fail.”

O. The angel Gabriel had made two birth announcements – one to Elizabeth, who was older and unable to have children. The other was to Mary, a young lady who was a virgin (a teenager). Gabriel offers this assurance – “no word from God will ever fail.”  This encouraging reminder may have been needed, especially by Mary. She may have had some doubt, fear and certainly how and if these things can really be true.

A. I know God can do the miraculous. He chose to bless Elizabeth though she previously was unable to have children. He chose to bless Mary -a virgin. If He can do that then, I know He can do anything He says He will do. His words never fail. 

I think of His call in my life, and I’ve seen Him do miraculous things in my life and ministry. I think, “If He’s done this before He can do it again. He doesn’t fail.” I, perhaps like Elizabeth and Mary, take courage and rejoice in that “No word from the Lord will EVER fail.”

P. Thank you Lord for this word today. Thank you that no word from you will ever fail. I take courage from this truth and rejoice in all that you have called me to do. You’ve done the miraculous before, I pray that you will do it again because “No word from You will EVER fail.” I pray and ask this in Jesus’ name!

Posted on September 18, 2023 .

S.O.A.P. 30 Day Challenge – Day #17, September 17, 2023 “The Tabernacle Prayer.”

S.O.A.P. 30 Day Challenge – Day #17, September 17, 2023 “The Tabernacle Prayer.”

S. Ezekiel 43:10 (NIV) “Son of man, describe the temple to the people of Israel, that they may be ashamed of their sins. Let them consider its perfection and if they are ashamed of all they have done, make known to them the design of the temple….”

O. Ezekiel was to teach people about God’s temple that that they would be in awe of it, that is, understanding its design. By understanding its design, we can and will be blessed to a closer walk with God.

A. I am so glad that I have been taught the tabernacle prayer (albeit I was 57 years old when I first learned of it). It’s such as blessing to be able to walk through the temple and consider each area of its design and how that can draw me closer to God.

-Outer courtyard – enter His gates with thanksgiving, His courts with praise

-Brazan Alar – I am reminded of the sacrifices that picture the sacrifice of Jesus.

- Reflection Pool – I see myself and confess my sins to God.

-Candlestick – A symbol of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom that comes from the Holy Spirit

-Table of Showbread – My need for God’s word every day.

-Altar of Incense – Praying not according to me, but to God. Praying the names of God.

- Ark of the Covenant – the place of the High Priest – we are interceded in prayer for others

P. Thank you Lord for teaching me the intimate design of the temple and its symbolism.  It teaches me more of you and how I can be closer to you in prayer. I’m in awe of who you are, and I desire to walk closely with you. In Jesus’ name

Posted on September 17, 2023 .