When I Surrendered, God Showed Up as my Defender!

 

Isaiah 57:15

 

"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones." - KJV

 

Isaiah 51:22

 

"This is what your Sovereign Lord says your God, who defends his people: “See, I have taken out of your hand the cup that made you stagger; from that cup, the goblet of my wrath, you will never drink again." - NIV

 

 

 

Proverbs 23:10-11

 

^"Do not move an ancient boundary stone or encroach on the fields of the fatherless, for their Defender is strong; he will take up their case against you." - NIV

 

Did you know that God's love has the power to bring everyone who suffers heartache, pain, injustice or even indecision to a place of glorious VICTORY?  When breakthrough finally becomes a  reality, the course of our lives is dramatically changed for His glory! 

I really think "surrender" is the key that unlocks the door to the working of God's Word. So many times I've witnessed Christian's who try to manipulate God through crafty prayer and fearful denial, all in an effort to try and force God's will. While I do believe that we should "stand" on God's promises in the face of adversity (Ephesians 6:13), I also believe that our "standing on God's Word" should be done with a pure heart of humility that is willing to accept God's pathway to wholeness - regardless of our preference. (Have you ever noticed that God rarely unfolds things in our time... or in our way?)

Psalm 37:5 -

"Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass." - KJV

The Lord is good and it is His good pleasure to bless His children (Luke 12:32). Our response to His love should be that of "trust". When we fully trust someone, we have no need to manipulate them; instead, we rest in their desire to act toward our best interest. God's Word promises us that He will bring those things to pass that we deeply hope for. Not the selfish things of this world, rather: the hidden treasures of our hearts, our destiny, the purpose of our existence, the wholeness of our families, and the salvation of our souls. Every good and perfect gift is from above (James 1:17), so there is no need to fret over the haunting "what ifs"; those strongholds (thoughts) that try to persuade us to take control of our situation - instead of relinquishing everything to God once we've done all we know to do.

Learning to surrender requires a "leap of faith"; one that is anchored in the knowledge of God's character. We cannot expect to know God's character unless we are, first, willing to spend time reading His Word. In addition, we must be willing to fellowship with His people by going to church regularly and we must communicate with Him on a daily basis through a prayer life that is more eager to "listen" than it is to "speak".

Time and time again, scripture reveals how God moves when His servants were obedient to His "rhema word" of instruction concerning the dilemma of their moment. I'm talking about a "NOW" word; a word that is specifically for us at our moment of crisis. The Lord does not want us to live on yesterday's Word.  He does not want us to live off of someone else's word either.  Rather, He wants us to follow His leading - step by step - as we walk through unknown doors of "choice" and "circumstance" in our everyday lives. While He does give us a free will to choose any door of life that seems good at the time, He also tells us - in His Word - that He is knocking on the door of life (Revelation 3:20), encouraging us to choose the path of surrender that He has prepared for us. This is the best path. This is the path to victory.

Deuteronomy 30:19-20 -

"I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them." - KJV

One of my favorite scriptures is Deuteronomy 30:19-20. This verse really sums up the Christian journey as God prescribes the pathway to victory according to His perfect will. As we "choose" to follow after peace by surrendering our will to His, the heavens open up, as the natural is overcome by the supernatural. The glorious wonders of the Kingdom of God are made manifest as we stand in awe at the evidence of our breakthrough. As darkness gives way to light and our breakthrough becomes a reality, God's glory is revealed. This is where our tests become our testimonies. This is where our faith becomes substance (Hebrews 11:1).

SURRENDERING ALL is the secret ingredient of the soul that gives FUEL TO OUR FAITH. While surrendering our will to His is in direct contrast to our fleshly nature, it is the only sure way to walk in the spirit. We are told that true worshippers must worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24). As our spirit surrenders to His, He ushers us into His perfect will; a place of wholeness and victory. While He probably won't allow our breakthroughs to manifest on our timetable, I can assure you that He will not be too late! His timing and His way is always perfect. He is continually standing with open arms, inviting us to leap into His bosom.

What do YOU need to surrender, today? I pray that you will be able to free-fall into the arms of Jesus, as you "truly" trust Him with every aspect of your life. He will not disappoint you. Trust Him, today, with whatever it is that has caused you pain, unforgiveness, hardship, grief, or emptiness. He wants to take that part of your life and exchange it for His victory, His blessings, His comfort, and His wholeness.

Psalm 9:10 -

 

"And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee." - KJV

In Christ,

Deborah Ross

Deborah Ross Ministries, Inc.

Strengthening Families; Encouraging Faith; Preaching the Gospel

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

I love hearing from you!

Marriage or Divorce?

 

Dealing with Unfaithfulness

Dear Child of God:

I get emails and phone calls all the time from those suffering in marital hardships who are looking for hope in their seemingly bleak situation. The question below is one that I received by email and I'd like to share it with all of you as a Remnant Woman writes the following...

Question:

How do you stand for a marriage when your husband just uses you and cares nothing about you? Especially when you show them unconditional love and they know you are standing so they use that to their advantage. What kind of self respect can you have for yourself to allow yourself to be used like that? Especially when your husband is sleeping with other people and telling them lies about you? Wouldn't God want you to be free to move on and live a new life? My husband isn't sorry for what he has done.

My Reply:
My heart breaks for you. I know it is very difficult to live, day-to-day, with a broken heart that bleeds, because of betrayal from your spouse.

I will offer you this one Biblical escape from your torment, but I must also add that this is not necessarily God's best. In Matthew 19 Jesus tells the Pharisees that divorce is permitted in the case of adultery; but, He also adds that divorce is permitted because of the "hardness of our hearts." Even if you divorce your spouse, you must still forgive him (or her)... I mean truly forgive. Remember, God sees the heart. While others may not be able to see the bitterness that can be tucked away in a person's soul for many years (even a lifetime) - God sees it all.

As one who has overcome marital adversity, it is my conclusion that if I must forgive my husband, I'd rather fight for his salvation (aiming to win the whole prize: our marriage, his salvation, and my clean heart) than to face the arduous task of trying to truly forgive after a bitter divorce.

God will use us as vessels of Himself as we stand in the gap for those who are lost and living in darkness. Your spouse is obviously lost and living in darkness. While it is very painful to love someone who is unlovable, we are also told that learning to love our enemies is what makes us more like Christ (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:27, Luke 6:35).

1 Corinthians 13:8 says that "Love Never Fails." While praying for your spouse, be sure to mix your faith with your Christ-like actions.  It is important to speak the truth about God's Word and and the truth about sin... but not in a nagging way.  Sweeping things under the rug is not going to make it go away.

In addition, you'll need to live as an example of Christ before your mate's eyes.  Most importantly, you must forgive. God will soften the heart of your spouse as you create fertile ground for your miracle through your obedience to the Holy Spirit. It is not a quick fix. You will need to ask yourself many times over if you can withstand the challenge of this spiritual warfare, knowing that the devil will not back down easily.

As you ask the Holy Spirit for His daily guidance and protection, while placing yourself in the strong hand of God, He will take care of you; guiding you step by step through the process of this dark valley. God is all-knowing and all-powerful. He knows exactly what it will take for your husband /wife to surrender and repent of their sins. God will use you as a vessel of light as you completely surrender to His pathway to wholeness for your family. Most importantly, you'll need to trust that your faith in God's Word will bring forth the promise of a restored marriage with a born-again spouse.

Many people come to the conclusion that someone will never change and so they give up the fight. I like to say, how long would you believe for the salvation of your child? How long would you commit to being the parent of your child if they were in rebellion and sinning against you? Is your husband any more disposable than your child?

God does not want any to perish. He wants everyone to become a born-again Child of God. God does not want any marriage to end in divorce. He wants all families to remain whole. Knowing this, you can pray with confidence, knowing that God is on your side. The waiting and the suffering is not fun, but it is what every Christian goes through at some point or another - in some area of their faith.

Romans 5:1-5

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

 And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

When we suffer for righteousness sake, God works out things in our own lives that, perhaps, we didn't even know needed attention. He molds us and shapes us to be more like Himself as we surrender our will, to His. Though our surrender may be extremely painful for a season, we don't do it as one who has no hope. Instead, we do it knowing that God is faithful and He will not make us ashamed in the end.

We cannot change our spouse, but God can... and He wants to! I want to encourage you to pray the Women's Marriage Prayer, daily.  (Marriage Prayer for Men) Also, I currently have my audio message of Faith, Forgiveness, Future posted at the bottom of this blog that you can freely listen to for encouragement - right from your computer. My teaching series of Root Digger, Not a Rug Sweeper (available on my web-site) is another valuable tool of encouragement that will help you during this season of pain. Finally, I have a new book titled, Healing a Broken Marriage: Love Never Fails . I highly recommend these resources, as they may prove vital to the outcome of your journey.

Again, you are ultimately the only one who can decide how to handle your situation. Divorce is permitted... but, it is not necessarily the best way. Ask the Lord to show you what to do - day by day - and He will. He loves you AND He loves your husband. He wants each of you born-again and set free from the bondage of sin.

Romans 5

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

______________________

Then, another Remnant Woman writes...

As a "seasoned Christian," I actually pray for God's refining fires however, when they come in by way of infidelity I find that I fail the test every time. When I found out about the last incident, that happened between my husband and my brother's wife, I thought I would lose my mind. I shut down in every area of life and depression took over. I felt like a lousy Christian because I was consumed by grief. I felt like the Lord would never be able to use me again. I had always been committed to my family in spite of the infidelities, however, this one had crossed the family lines. What made matters worse was she had just lost her mother to cancer the same month I found out and had gained all the other family members sympathy in spite of her indiscretion. I was told to just "drop it and forgive and forget." There would be no accountability, how was I to handle that? I was at the end of my rope, I just couldn't take anymore of anything. The pain inside was unbearable, so much so that I began cutting on myself just to relieve it! What kind of Christian cuts herself to relieve pain when she should be turning to Jesus for comfort and healing? The joy of the Lord is supposed to be my strength! I began to doubt my own salvation. Then the tears of remorse began to wash over me as I remembered the day I was saved and baptized with the fire of the Holy Spirit. There was no denying that to be true. Then the guilt of conviction kicked in, that I had abused my own vessel, God's temple, making me feel worse. Oh, would this merry-go-round of emotion, grief, and conviction ever stop? What was I missing in the lesson that I had to endure the pain of infidelity a fifth time? What are you trying to teach me Lord? I prayed, "Lord, please send me a teacher who will make it all make sense. Surround me with your "spirit-filled" people that will gently walk me through this trial so that I can be victorious this time." This is where your book found it's way into my hands and I rejoiced and cried as I read it. I said to myself, "This woman has the answers I seek Lord! She has Your wisdom Lord. Your Word is in her mouth and you have taken her on a similar journey and she has come out victorious!" Truly, Deborah, had it not been for your book, I would still be spinning on the merry-go-round in darkness trying to find the off switch. Thank you for shining your light through my darkness so I could "find" and "hit" the off switch! You gave me clarity where I could only see darkness. Glory be to God and may He bless your ministry ten thousand fold!

_________________________

 

Final Words from Deborah:

 

 

To God be the Glory for every marriage restored, every broken heart mended, and every tormented mind that receives the peace of God.

This blog entry is a re-post from 2009 with some editing.  This topic seems to be the most popular title to date.  I am believing for your marriage restoration.  Remember, God has a remedy for those trapped in an unequally yoked marriage... glorious salvation for all.

In Christ,

Deborah Ross

Deborah Ross Ministries, Inc.

Strengthening Families; Encouraging Faith; Preaching the Gospel

http://www.deborahrossministries.org/

Overflowing With Blessings!!!

The following letter came to me from someone whom I have had aquaintance with since middle school (I am older than she).  Throughout the years, our paths have crossed here and there although we've never really spent time together in the same friendship circle of everyday life.  Beth still calls me Debbie (my childhood nick-name). 

This letter is especially touching as Beth unfolds her journey to the Lord in relation to how my book, this ministry and the weaving our lives together by the masterful work of God has touched her life in a powerful way.  Be blessed as you read!

PS - I love hearing from each of you!  Please let me know if/how this ministry has blessed your life.  Email me through my official website at www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

Love ,
Deborah Ross

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dear Debbie,


I finished your book (Healing a Broken Marriage) on June26th, Caroline’s 20th birthday.  It has taken me until today to try and find the right words to say to you and still I’m not sure how to express all the things I’ve been feeling.  I have thought about it everyday, meditated on it and prayed constantly.  Although there are many improvements that could be made to our marriage, I feel those things falling into place.  It is all the other blessings I have received from your words that I am most thankful for. I completely trust you and that God has brought me to this point in my life to hear you, hear Him and really BELIEVE.  It’s as if the clouds have opened up and there is a beautiful beam of light and I’m walking it in.  Never alone again!


I have grown up in theMethodist church and alternate Sundays in a Baptist church with my Grandparents.  I always believed in Jesus, I thought I knew Him—I saw so many miracles in my life and have been moved many times by things that happened I knew could only come from God.  I was baptised, went through confirmation as a youth, helped in many ways give back to the church.  We joined the Methodist church here in Marshville before we were married and attended there.  We then moved to Monroe where we were active members, I taught “Godly Play” Sunday school, was on the Children and Youth Councils and was a youth leader.  Many times I have chaperoned and attempted to teach on retreats for our youth.  I have done Clown ministry and some 20 + years in all aspects of vacation Bible School.  I have even portrayed Mary, the Mother of Jesus.  I have never, ever felt worthy of any of this.  I thought someone else would be so much better for the job than me!! What a sinner I am, I have so many faults and I don’t deserve this!  

Since at least the fifth grade I have known of you.  I was honestly curious and truly fascinated by the way you handled and presented yourself.  I couldn’t wait to see what you did next-you have always been strong, beautiful and smart.  I know I have told you this, but Louise Matthews (5th grade teacher) once told my father I reminded her of you and I was astounded.  How could it be? I could only hope to grow as a person  with poise and grace and better myself.  I know God was in the details.  Our lives seem to have been interwoven delicately, here and there throughout the years and I remember pivital times that were revealed to me as your book (Healing a Broken Marriage) unfolded.  I remember glimpses of you as a dancer, as a young mother, business owner, wife, teacher and friend.  There were times I thought back to when Iwanted to ask you questions, but now I know that you were growing and learning in God’s Word and I wasn’t ready to listen or hear-yet. At this point I also have to say in my young life how much I enjoyed having your sister, Crystal, around.  Even then you could see her light, pure and true and all her goodness.  I am so thankful of the days she was around and we just kind of ‘hung out’together.  She has grown into such a kind, beautiful woman full of love and grace. She has such a beautiful family-you both do!


Back to my point-I know I tend to ramble.  I feel like I had done all these things because it was the ‘right thing to do’.  I would get lost in studies and preparation for my task and learn and then repeat the story.  I would pray mechanically, be where I was supposed to be when I was supposed to be there and have the kids front and center.  Not until lately have I felt a true euphoric joy and the Spirit upon me and working through me.  I told my sister on Caroline’s birthday that I was afraid it was going to go away, what if I can’t do the things I have been called for? How will I know the right thing to do? What if? What if? When I finished the end of your book, I was so excited.  I said to Mandy, “What do I do now??”  I wanted to do everything! To be better and working to please God ALL the time, not just when I felt like it or when I needed to get something done.  I feel better, I feel new and I want to feel this way all the time!


For years I have been less than well, having several surgeries and consequently relied on prescriptive painkillers as a crutch for pretty much everything. I didn’t want to face things in my life, I was from a broken home, I was so bad-such a sinner.  I feel like I have prayed and prayed my whole life, asked for forgiveness, waited for something to happen.  I have put so many people I love the most through hell. A year ago in June I stopped taking all that I was dependent on.  I had been hospitalized for pneumonia and was sick of being SICK.  When I finished your book, I prayed the marriage prayer.  I continued reading and thought to myself oh, ok-  I’ve done this before.  Ok, I’ll read it again, it can’t hurt. So I read the sinner’s prayer and I prayed.  Guess what? Something happened Debbie, somethingWONDERFUL!  I am new, I see things with new eyes and an open heart, I can hear Jesus speak to me ALL the time! I am so grateful for my life, for my children, for my family.  I want this ALL the time, forever!


It’s hard sometimes not to be skeptical.  The enemy has kept me down and in the dark (sometimes literally) for so very long.  I can feel the things I used to think I loved,things not good for me, things that kept God from flowing freely though me just falling away.  It reminds me so much of that little precious moments child saying “Please be patient, God isn’t finished with me yet”. I know people have seen a change.  I want to be a good example like you are! I still have so much to learn, so much to do. Presently I am directing vacation Bible school at our church here in Marshville.  It is an especially daunting task as our church is a little down and broken, we seem scattered in the wake of receiving a new pastor and there is much unrest. I know I’m supposed to be here and work as hard as I can.  Even though I have worked a lot with vbs, I’ve never had to direct it and it has been particularly challenging having to get materials together and find resources. You know what though? I have prayed and prayed on it every day and it is coming together!! I know it's going to be amazing and that God won’t let me, US fail at this and teaching His precious Word!!


I love you Debbie, I always have.  You have never been anything but wonderful to me.  I thank God for making you who you are today and speaking to me through you.  You know, this is kind of scary.  It’s just more amazing than anything else. Sometimes I still just can’t believe it’s true.  I am coming to your retreat (Freedom Today Beach Conference) in August.  I can’t wait!! I hope my sisters can come as well.  Oh, and now I have a prayer list.  A REAL one!! Ha! I always said that-“I’llpray for you”-but now I have it on my phone and pray at regular intervals everyday and night.  WOW! It’s just….well you know!!! Bless you and all you are doing. I’ll be in touch!

Your sister in Christ,
Beth Traywick 

Freedom Today Beach Conference 2012

FREEDOM TODAY BEACH CONFERENCE

August 31- Sept. 2, 2012

Sea Trail Golf Resort & Convention Center

Sunset Beach, NC

FreedomToday.TV with Robin Bertram and Deborah Ross is hosting an anointed Bible & Worship Conference for women... and men. Come experience radical, life-changing, solid biblical teaching that offers solutions for life's everyday trials.

Releasing triumph over tragedy, this conference encourages personal growth and intimacy with Jesus Christ.

In addition to our full retreat style women's event, the Freedom Today Beach Conference includes a bonus package for the man in your life, as well. Jay Ross and Ken Bertram will be leading a men's golf outing along with breakout bible study sessions in the board room... for men only!

Oh yeah, be sure to check out our guest speakers and worship leaders on our website.

This conference is the perfect end of summer retreat for everyone!

For more information on how YOU can participate, CLICK HERE

To reserve your special conference hotel rates, go to www.seatrail.com

The Freedom Today Television Show and Retreat Conferences offer REAL PEOPLE, real solutions that are found only in the Word of God.

See you there!

To Register: CLICK HERE

www.FreedomToday.TV

Freedom Today Conference Schedule

BONUS - Freedom Today Conference attendees who choose the extended stay option are invited to join us from 5:30-7:00pm at The Boundary House Restaurant for a time of fellowship and good food. (Everyone pays for their own meal)

To Register: CLICK HERE 

YOU HAVE OPTIONS!

The Freedom Today Beach Conference is offering a special husband's golf package that includes FREE breakout Bible Study Sessions with Ken Bertram and Jay Ross, conference meals, and inclusion in our Co-ed worship services. If you choose to make this beach conference double as a couples/family holiday by taking advantage of these low conference rates and low golf rate packages, consider an extended stay through Monday, Sept. 3rd... or even longer!

Enjoy the beach, shopping, golf, spas and more. The choice is yours!

See you there!

˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜

Robin Bertram - TV Producer / Show Host & Author of Shadows Among Us

www.RobinBertram.org

Deborah Ross - TV Producer / Co-Host & Author of Healing a Broken Marriage

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org

To Register: CLICK HERE 

˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜˜

FREEDOM TODAY

REAL PEOPLE - REAL ISSUES - REAL SOLUTIONS

Effectual Fervent Prayer that Avails Much

BIBLE TRUTH

The power of prayer is often misunderstood among those that are lost and without Christ.  Quite often, prayer is neglected by many Christians, as well, because they don’t fully understand the significance of what their prayers can accomplish through faith.  From a human’s point of view, it seems that because God is all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present, and all-wise, prayer is futile.  After all, what difference could our prayers ever make in swaying the God of all creation’s decision on how to govern our everyday lives? 

While this is a valid question that everyone has held in their heart at some point, God’s word assures us that we are very important participants in how His Kingdom operates on earth.  The power of prayer, as it is mixed with faith, can completely change the course of history in an individual, a family, an organization or a nation.     

Are you in the habit of praying to God on a daily basis?   

     

1 Kings 8

 ⁴⁵Then hear thou in heaven their prayer and their supplication, and maintain their cause.
   ⁴⁶If they sin against thee, (for there is no man that sinneth not,) and thou be angry with them, and deliver them to the enemy, so that they carry them away captives unto the land of the enemy, far or near;
   ⁴⁷Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication unto thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness;
   ⁴⁸And so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul, in the land of their enemies, which led them away captive, and pray unto thee toward their land, which thou gavest unto their fathers, the city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name:
   ⁴⁹Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication in heaven thy dwelling place, and maintain their cause,
   ⁵⁰And forgive thy people that have sinned against thee, and all their transgressions wherein they have transgressed against thee, and give them compassion before them who carried them captive, that they may have compassion on them:

A DEEPER LOOK

Easton’s Bible dictionary describes prayer as intercourse of the soul with God.  Effective prayer that touches the heart of God should be intimate, sincere and humble.  Furthermore, in order for our prayers to move the hand of God, we must believe that He is a God who wants to answer our petitions with favor (Hebrews 11:6). 

The word supplication means to humbly plead our case before a holy God.  Additionally, prayer and supplication (as described in the Bible) should always include repentance of known sins.  When our repentance is combined with a deep crying-out to the Lord for His mercy and grace upon our situation, His loving-kindness reaches into the human atmosphere of time to bring about miracles of change in our lives.  God promises to be near to, and to save those, with a broken and contrite spirit (Psalm 34:18).

Verses 45 and 49 (1 Kings 8) uses two words to describe how we get God to hear us.  What are these two words?   ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

What do you think Solomon meant when He asked God to “maintain their cause” as stated in verses 45 and 49 of 1 Kings 8?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

List the stipulations for attaining God’s favor through prayer that Solomon describes in 1 Kings 8:47-48?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

James 5:16

16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

WORKING IN YOUR LIFE

According to the dictionary, the word effectual means that something is capable of - or successful in - producing an intended result.  The meaning of the word effectual also encompasses the enforcing of a legal or binding document.

With this being said, James (the half brother of Jesus) is telling us that as we confess our faults one to another and pray for one another, we position ourselves to be healed by God.  James goes on to teach us the importance of approaching God’s throne with a clean heart when asking something of Him.  He tells us to be passionate and enthusiastic in our belief system knowing that our Heavenly Father will act according to His word for bringing about blessings in our lives.  In other words, according to James 5:16, there are conditions to getting our prayers answered favorably.

What are the five conditions that James 5:16 describes for praying prayers that availeth (profit) much?

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________   

REAL LIFE EXAMPLES

In Matthew 6:5-13 and again in Luke 11:1-13, Jesus gives us an example of how we should pray.  He begins by warning us against impure motives and thoughts of wishing to be seen and heard by others who will then think we are super spiritual.  Jesus tells us that the only reward that can be expected by someone who prays a pious, religious prayer is that of earthly recognition.  God will in no way act upon a hypocritical concern or insincere petition uttered from the lips of any well meaning human being who has impure motives.

The prayer that Jesus models for us is not meant to be recited with a cold heart of memorization.  Instead, the Lord’s model prayer should be viewed through the eyes of the Holy Spirit for understanding the pattern for which Jesus explains how we should arrange our thoughts when talking with Adoni (The Lord Who is God / Master / Ruler). 

1)      First, Jesus tells us to address God by His Holy Names (Hallowed be Thy Name) which define His character. (Matthew 6:9)

2)      Then, Jesus goes on to tell us to pray for heaven to manifest on earth because that is God’s will.  (Matthew 6:10)

3)      Next, we should ask our petition of God.  (Matthew 6:11)

4)      As we petition God for our needs, we should confess our sins to Him.  We must also be willing to forgive everyone that we have held a grudge against – no matter how just our bitterness may seem to be in our own eyes.  (Matthew 6:12)

5)      We should pray that God will always make a way of escape for us so that we will not fall into the devils traps of temptation.  Pray that God will remind us to repent daily from all wrong doing and pray that we will be empowered to avoid doing wrong in the first place.  (Matthew 6:13)

6)      Lastly, acknowledge that God is able and willing to answer our prayer and totally change the natural laws of our bodies, our land or our circumstances in order to bring about a miracle on our behalf and for His glory.  This is according to the many promises found in God’s word that should be hidden in the heart of every child of the King.  (Matthew 6:13)   

Why do you think it is important for us to call out the names of God at the beginning of our prayer time?

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In light of the Lord’s Model Prayer, how do you view God’s will for us on earth?

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MAKING IT HAPPEN!

According to 2 Chronicles 16:9, the Lord is seeking someone to bless!  Our part in the matter is to remain humble, righteous and holy in all of our ways.  There are no specific rules to follow for accomplishing a favored stance before the Lord during prayer.  His only requirements are that of sincerity, repentance, faith, and humility.  The Lord desperately wants to commune with us in prayer.  He wants us to worship Him with childlike faith that is not ashamed of outward praise and adoration.  Whether kneeling, standing, laying prostrate, hands lifted high, head bowed low, crying, singing or shouting, God wants us to be real with Him in all of our ways.  In return, He promises to show Himself strong on our behalf (2 Chronicles 16:9).     

 

Memorizing God’s word, learning about His character, and renewing our minds will boost our confidence in our prayer time.  As we acknowledge  and agree with His thoughts toward us – instead of our own evil thoughts about ourselves -  we position ourselves for faith to believe that He truly loves us and wants to do us good and not harm (Jeremiah 29:11).

Can you recall a time of which you cried out to the Lord with a broken and contrite spirit and asked Him for something specific of which He answered your prayer with great favor?

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According to today’s lesson, what can you do to practice having an effectual, fervent prayer life that has the power to touch God’s heart and move His hand?

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2 Chronicles 7:14

14  If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

2 Chronicles 16:9

9  For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him…

Mark 11:22-26:

   ²²And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.

   ²³For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

   ²⁴Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

   ²⁵And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

   ²⁶But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

HOMEWORK

Study Matthew 17:14-21 and Mark 9:14-29.  Ask God to teach you about the importance of believing His word.  Ask Him to teach you the principles of fasting for certain issues that cause you great concern.

ORDER THIS ENTIRE STUDY NOW!

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This Bible Study is one of many lessons created by Deborah Ross and Contributing Writers of the Woman2Woman: The Naomi & Ruth Bible Study.

By: Deborah Ross

Copyright@ Deborah Ross Ministries & Safer Communities Ministries

www.DeborahRossMinistries.org / www.mysafercommunities.org

Turning Generational Curses into Generational Blessings

10 Ways of Turning Generational Curses into Generational Blessings and Getting Rid of Strong Holds... once and for all!
- personal teaching notes of Deborah Ross

1)  Must be born again. 

John 3:3 "...Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

Jeremiah 31:29-30, "In those days they shall say no more, The fathers have eaten a sour grape, and the children's teeth are set on edge. But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge."

2)  Transform our minds.    

Romans 12:2 - "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, ..."

2 Corinthians 10:5 – Says, “taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ”

3)  Uncover our OWN INIQUITIES and REPENT before we start blaming...

Luke 6:39-42  (also found in Matthew 7:1-5)
"And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?"

4)  REALITY CHECK ... Know the Truth   

John 8:32  "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."   

Ezekiel 18:14-20 – You must RECOGNIZE the iniquity in your family tree and determine to do differently.  

Ezekiel 18:30-32 - Turn and LIVE!!!

Recognize it.
Call it what it is. 
Repent of it.
...Repentance – (means “change”, not merely remorse)

5)  GET AWAY... SEPARATE YOURSELF   
(from family traditions; from family mannerisms; from family sins; from family words spoken over you; from negative family expectations; from family patterns - such as: divorce, addictions, poverty, etc.; from all soul ties) - separate yourself from a lineage of sin 

Do not stop loving those family members who are in bondage, just stop all of your participation in their dysfunction.

Genesis 12:1-4
God told Abram (Abraham) to get away from his relatives and He would bless him and his seed (his offspring).

2 Corinthians 6:17  
"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you."

6)  WEAR THE DEVIL OUT!   

Daniel 7:25
"And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time."

Luke 22:31
"And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:"

7)  Walk in LOVE.  

1 Corinthians 13:1-8
*Remember - Everything hinges on LOVE

8)  We must appropriate (apply) the Word of God to our lives in order for God's mercy to be activated...

dictionary.com = to take to or for oneself; take possession of.

1 Samuel 15:22
"Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."

2 John 1:3
Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.

Proverbs 16:6
By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

Psalm 25:10
All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.

Psalm 85:10
Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

Psalm 86:15
But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.

Everyone wants God's mercy, but not everyone wants God's truth. 

You can't have one without the other.

Generational Curses are broken when we live in TRUTH, OBEDIENCE and LOVE.

What INIQUITIES, GENERATIONAL CURSES, STRONG HOLDS do you recognize in YOUR family tree that need to be broken in your life?

9)  PASS THE TEST... APPLY THE BLOOD OF JESUS

Revelation 12:11 - 3 things for overcoming the devil: 
Blood of the Lamb - Word of Your Testimony - Love not Your Life unto the Death 

10)  CAST THE DEMONS OUT - Sometimes certain curses just need to have someone pray deliverance over the individual in order to cast the demon out of that person.

Mark 9:17-27   -  Jesus deals with what is apparently a generational curse (verse 21).  Jesus didn't have the boy confess the sins or iniquities of his ancestors, He just cast out the demons that entered in through the curse.

*More notes from verses Mark 9:28-29 - Sometimes we should go into prayer and fasting before praying deliverance over certain people so that we will have faith needed to cast out certain demons.

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Jesus already paid the price for YOU to be FREE when He died on the cross!


By FAITH, appropriate (apply) the blood of Jesus to YOUR LIFE and be free, once and for all! 


Walk in your freedom!

Galatians 3:13, "Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree

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To Read WHAT IS A GENERATIONAL CURSE - Click Here

TO READ MORE ON BREAKING THE CURSE CLICK HERE


This Study is From the Personal Teaching Notes of Deborah Ross www.DeborahRossMinistries.org
Mother in Zion Series