prayer

Keep Pressing On

/ Gail Johnson

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14 KJV).

In the Bible, we read of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.

A few of my favorites are Joshua and Caleb, Gideon, Elijah, and Paul.

I have others, but when “pressing time” comes, I look to certain ones who stood against the odds and overcame the obstacles.

Keep Pressing On

In the Old Testament, they fought against flesh and blood enemies. But, in the New Testament, our weapons and enemies are not of this world.

Paul fought the enemy of his soul and was victorious. He told Timothy, I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.

Through His death and resurrection, to those who believe, Jesus gives the power to become sons and daughters, power over the enemy, and the armor of God. He did not leave us defenseless. We can be victorious!

Faith:

Fervent—we must be passionate in our pursuit of God

Aggressive—we must be bold and active

Insistent—declare the promises of God, never back down from the devil

Thrust—moving forward is necessary if we are to gain new ground

Heavenward—every action should move us toward Heaven

 

Scripture References

Luke 10:19; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; John 1:12; Ephesians 6:10-18; Revelation 3:16

 

Someone Is Praying

/ Gail Johnson / 4 Comments

I awoke at 3 a.m. Monday morning, the face of a friend before me. I heard, “Fear not. Be strong. Take courage. You’re not alone. Someone is praying.” Wanting to reach out to this one without invading their space, I decided to share an encouraging word in a picture.

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver (Proverbs 25:11 KJV).

Someone is Praying

Someone is Praying

There are hurting people in this world. They need to know someone cares, even if, they’re not sharing their problems with the world.

Sadly, the first thing we do when we’re in need is circle the wagons and wait it out, especially if we’re in a ministry of helping others. We slap a mask on our face, afraid to let others see our fears, depression, and anything else that isn’t associated with an overcomer.

However, we must be truthful with ourselves and each other. Life isn’t easy. Jesus promised we would have troubles in this life. He also said, “Cheer up, He had overcome the world.” He promised we’re not alone. He’s with us and He gave us a wonderful gift called friendship.

Friends allow us to be ourselves. They see our faults and failures and still love us. Friends keep our secrets. Friends do not “share” our secrets as prayer requests. Friends lovingly correct us when we’re wrong. I’m happy to say I have such friends, who stand by me and pray for me.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

We can do no greater thing than to lay aside part of our day to pray for one another. We may not always know what to pray for, but, the Holy Spirit does (Romans 8:26-27). So will you stand with me—join hands with me—and pray for those in need.

I’ve started my list below. Please feel free to add your request to it. I may not hear your requests, but I promise the One Who answers prayers will, and that’s what matters.

My Prayer List

The leaders of this world
Battle weary soldiers
Military families who wait for loved ones
Caregivers
The child who lives in fear
The people held in human trafficking
The missionary
The hungry (For that child who has eaten nothing but cereal for three days)
The lost
Those dealing with job loss
Those suffering from a debilitating disease
The loss of a loved one

After you have prayed, I urge you to put legs to this prayer and find someone in need and “be” the hands and feet of Christ. Let’s love one another enough to make a difference.

Remember, you are not alone. Someone is praying!

Worthy Of Praise

/ Gail Johnson

Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! Psalms 107:8

Psalms 107 is a song of thanksgiving and an exhortation to testify of the many blessings of God.

  • Deliverance
  • Safety
  • Redemption
  • Healing
  • Guidance
  • Blessings

Spring is a season of renewal. The earth wakes from winter’s nap and burst forth in song.

centerofhiswheel.com

Everywhere I look, I behold the beauty of the Almighty’s hands. I see His handiwork in the heavens and in the earth. I breathe in His fragrance.

My faith is renewed. My spirit, uplifted. A joy like no other fills my soul. Do I have a reason to testify to friends and loved ones?

Yes!

When I read this chapter, I see that everything He promised, He delivered. If He did it then, He’ll do it now. Do I have reason to fret?

No!

From Genesis to Revelation, the writers testify of His faithfulness.

And when I dig past the circumstances, when I push aside the worries, when I call to mind all the times He has seen me through, I can praise His name!

However, praise, like water, will not flow from a dry well. It must be primed. When my mind is filled with clutter, and it seems I have nothing to praise Him for, I look to the cross.

He came looking for me when no one else did. He loved me when no one else did. He helped me when no one else could. He healed my wounds. He guided my steps. He blessed me beyond measure.

centerofhiswheel.com

He alone is worthy of praise.

Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! Psalms 107:8

When I praise His name in the midst of my trials, my circumstances change. He lifts me above my sorrows, eases my pain, and gives me strength to face another day.

Blessed be the name of the Lord!