Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You
Taking Spiritual Inventory
"Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more" (Luke 12:48, ESV).
Most Christians are powerless. This statement will sound bold to some readers, and to others, it will sound obvious. Either way, it is a commentary on the church I would rather not have to make.
Consider what "normal" Christianity looks like to the typical believer today. This person is a bit self-seeking and a little materialistic, and most of his daily choices are about improving his life. That includes his spiritual pursuits, from church groups to the podcasts he downloads to the seminars he attends.
There is nothing wrong with any of these things. Our Lord wants our lives to be blessed, but for some Christians, these are nothing more than worldly pursuits. They are about self-improvement, not the kingdom of God, and they can drain a believer of true gospel power.
What passes for normal Christianity today must be an outrage to God. It is not only powerless but passionless and lacking in self-sacrifice. In other words, it is cross-less and therefore, Christ-less.
Do not misunderstand. I am all about God's grace, and I would not lay an undue burden on anyone. However, it's time for the church to take a spiritual inventory to see whether our spiritual pursuits are leading us closer to God's heart or causing us to run in circles.
Let me pose a few questions. Do you think it would be better for your spiritual health to attend a church that doesn't preach much gospel, teach much of God's Word or have much passion for his kingdom? A church where no one really lives out his commands? Or would it be better to attend a church that exalts God's Word, proclaims the gospel and has a home group for every type of believer?
I would humbly suggest that the second option might be more dangerous to your spiritual health. Why? Because Jesus declares that to whom much is given, much is required.
For someone whose life doesn't match this biblical truth, the day of judgment will be scary. As Jesus warned, "You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect" (Luke 12:40).
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I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4
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