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Over the last several years the Lord has confirmed a word for me to cling to. The word encourages me to stay the course and keep me grounded. I have had words such as Forward, S.T.E.P., R.E.S.T., and Grow.
I admit I was a little surprised when the Lord gave me the word “Prayer” for this year. Why? Because I am one that fully believes in prayer and prays on a regular basis. Philippians 4:6 is my go-to verse: “Do not be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplications with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” I’m not sharing that in a boastful way but to explain why His direction surprised me. I soon realized it was for me to be more strategic in my prayers.
I love that the Lord confirmed my word for 2020 over and over. It was no coincidence that every other devotion, article, scripture, and conversation I had revolved around prayer.
For example, I had been reading in John and as I came across one of Jesus’ prayers in chapter 17 God stirred in my spirit. To be concise it was in verse 20 when I read He prayed for me all those years ago. And if you are a Christ-follower He prayed for you too!
For context take time to read John 17 and then linger a while on verse 20.
“I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word.”
WOW!
As I think about Jesus interceding for us it motivates me to not only be more intentional to pray this year but be more strategic in my prayers.
For instance, I took the word prayer and put meaning with each letter to help me focus and be purposeful as I go before the Lord. I hope this will encourage you as well.
Perspective
Release
Abide
Yield
Effective
Resist
Below is a more descriptive understanding of what each word means to me and how God’s word applies to it.
Perspective– See things through God’s eyes.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Release-Let go of my cares and concerns to God.
“Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Abide-Cling to Him and His word because I can do nothing apart from Him.
“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in Me.” (John 15:4)
Yield-Trust God’s wisdom versus men.
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17)
Effective-Ensure my prayers are effective by staying close and clean with the Lord.
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16b, NIV)
Resist– The temptations of the flesh and from turning to something or someone else before praying to God.
“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13)
I’m grateful each year for the word God has given me. It has proven to grow my trust in Him and strengthen my spiritual walk. Only He knows how my word P.R.A.Y.E.R. for 2020 will impact my life. But this I know, I can trust Him with all things!
What is your word for 2020?
If you have never used a word to help you grow in your walk test it out this year. I’d love to hear how God uses it in your life.
Be blessed, my friend!
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