FASTING, PRAYING, STUDYING AND LIVING FORTHE KINGDOM OF GOD
JUNE 17, 2021
God's blessings upon all the Saints around the World,
This Sunday, June 20, 2021 begins the Conference of Restoration Elders (CRE) Pastors of Zion (POZ) Annual Reunion. Most services during the Reunion will be live streamed from Waldo Avenue Restoration Branch beginning at 9 am CST. The theme is:"Standing on the Promises of God-It is Yet Day When All Can Work"
The theme for last Sunday night was, "Standing on the Promise of Forgiveness." What does forgiveness have to do with the spiritual disciplines? We all should be keenly aware of the fact that unless we are in a right relationship with God and others, that all our other efforts may be in vain.
As we are told in what is normally called, the "Lord's Prayer," Matthew 6:13, "And forgive us our trespasses AS we forgive those who trespass against us." No matter how much or how often we fast, pray, and study for the Kingdom of God, unless we live it, as just stated, we fast, pray, and study in vain. God's promise is that He will forgive us as we forgive others. This is not a suggestion, but rather a very strong statement by God in Doctrine and Covenants 64:2 b-e.
To me, this promise overrides the other promises, because this is the one that defines our relationship with our Heavenly Father. By not forgiving others we commit the greater sin and God cannot tolerate the least degree of sin. Where does that leave us in light of all the other promises? They likely will be null and void without our obedience in regard to repentance and forgiveness.
As we continue in our efforts of fasting, praying, and studying, may each of us determine where we stand before God. The following quotes may offer some help. A Christian starts their life with Christ by making a public confession of their faith. From there on, the Bible says, "Therefore, let your light so shine this world, , that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." Matthew 5:18.
"We must study (fast and pray) ever to regard God and His Glory in all that we do, and say, and undertake. This is the end that we should set for ourselves, to offer to God a sacrifice of perfect worship in this life, as we hope to do through all eternity." The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence.
"Prayer is a lift up with no let-down, for it is no mere shot-in-the-arm, a stimulant. It is a renewal, a renewal of resources. For in prayer you have a life transfusion. You are God infused." E. Stanley Jones, "The Way."
On a menu in a cafe was listed, "Enthusiastic Stew." Someone asked why they called it that. The server said, "Because the cook put everything he had into it." What a difference in the world, if every Christian put everything they had into the work of the Master! Our enthusiasm, time, talents, energy, "our life. Illustrations with a Point. by Ivy Moody.
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