We are generally okay with having friends and even doing stuff together, but when it comes to personal matters and the deepest parts of what we’ve done, we often withdraw and hide those pieces.  As a result no real life change is happening; only surface change can be seen and to most eyes that is enough.  

What if We had relationships where we could talk about the hard stuff including temptations and falls.  What if we were close enough to one another that we could really help each other through the fires we walk through?  What if we could even confess to one another and then pray for one another? I’m convinced we would see genuine change;  the unrestrained power of God unleashed in lives, transforming and conforming them to the image of Christ.  The prayers uttered in this Christ dependent environment could avail so much and change the world!

Reflection

Do you have those kind of relationships?

Are there other believers that you are accountable to and are holding accountable?

Are you praying for them regularly?

If you answered no to those questions, pray that God would bring those people into your life.  Pray that you would be that person for others. 

Prayer

Father, You are our everlasting God above all. You have given us the body of Christ that we may grow and mature.  Teach us to seek out these kinds of relationships.  Bring others in our lives that spur us along on our journey, hold us accountable and pray for us.  Let us likewise be that person for them.  May Your righteousness and glory reign forever in Jesus, Amen!

An internal change only with no public confession communicates something other than joy.  How could we receive the marvelous gift of eternal life and not confess, shout and praise the One who gave it to us?  

Not only is it an opportunity to praise Him but it also invites an accountability from others in the body of Christ.  It establishes the seriousness of you presenting your body as a living sacrifice to the LORD.  It confirms you are “All In”.  No flying under the radar, playing Christian, or hanging our in the Christian country club.  You are His!

Reflection

Are you hiding your faith from some who would ridicule you?

In what areas and to whom can you live and speak your faith where God has you right now?

God has given you a spirit of boldness to be a minister of reconciliation.  Walk in that spirit.  

Prayer

LORD, You are worthy to be praised. We rejoice that our hearts know You and Your mercy so much so that we want to scream from the rooftops Your mighty deeds.  Give us a boldness to change the world for You with Your love. In Jesus, Amen!

If we Know, Live, and Speak the Truth by grace through faith while walking in the Spirit, wouldn’t we see a change in this country regardless of the demographic or party line?  Wouldn’t we be a nation filled with grace and truth, wisdom and humility?  If we love the way Jesus showed us, would we not see an entire country change?

Personal Reflection

The actions of each influences the entire nation.  The penetrating question is: Are you willing to humble yourself, count yourself with sinners, confess, fast and pray for your nation?

Prayer Focus

LORD, we confess that  “we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly and rebelled, even turning aside from Your commandments and ordinances.”

Please forgive us Father and equip us to life in such a way that you may be glorified and our land may be healed to a place of honoring you.  May your love reign among every neighborhood and around every corner.  In the Name of Jesus, Amen!