Preparation is an important part of realizing God's will also. As humans, we want to know God's will & we want to know it NOW. But we need to prepare to know & obey what God has planned for us. Are you ready to follow when God makes it clear what He wants for you? First, you meed to do some spiritual stretching & exercising. Ick!!!...Exercising!!! I debated whether to use that word or not. But these are good exercises that will prepare you for everlasting life. Just like we - or some of us - exercise for a healthier life here on Earth. Even, with my lack of mobility, i have exercises to do for strengthening.
Bible Study Stretch
"That copy of the laws shall be his constant companion. He must read from it every day of his life so that he will learn to respect the Lord his God by obeying all of His commands."
Deuteronomy 17:19 (LB)
Obviously, according to this verse, we ARE to read our Bible, every day of our life! For those of you who are already in a Bible Study group, or have a Bible Study plan, that's awesome. And you are right on the mark! For those of you who don't, you may ask, "Where do I start?" This is only my opinion, but i recommend starting with Psalms. That's were i started many years ago & they taught me how to praise & showed me that i wasn't the only one who needed help. Many others would say to start with the Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John - learn about Jesus & His life & His death. And my hubby will suggest that you start with Proverbs, that are full of life principles. It doesn't really matter WHERE you begin, just begin.
Prayer Stretch
"Pray without ceasing"
1 Thessalonians 5:17
Yes! WITHOUT CEASING! Has someone been on your mind lately, but you don't know why? Say a prayer for them. Just stop for a moment & ask God to bless this person. Granted, we don't know what's going on with this person, but God does. And it doesn't matter if it's out loud or silently. Did you & your neighbor say "hi" this morning? Thank God for blessing you with nice neighbors.....for a roof over your head....food to eat....the blessing list is endless. But, to me, the most special prayer time is when you have time alone with God. Quiet prayer time is as important of spiritual stretch as Bible Study. It's time that you set aside for just you & God. I've heard people say that they don't know how to pray. Do you know how to carry on a conversation with your BFF? Then you can talk to God. Just clear your mind & start talking. God listens to ALL prayers.
"I desire to do Your will, O my God:
Your law is withing my heart."
Psalm 40:8 (NIV)
These are your spiritual stretching exercises. Pretty simple, huh? I challenge everyone who reads this to start your stretching this week, if you don't already do this daily. The best way to prepare for a race is by stretching. Life on this earth is not a race, but it IS a marathon.
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