Prayers

I've been thinking a lot about prayers today. My prayer board here at home is filled with names of people who in some way or another need Christ to touch their lives and leave behind on them the Divine imprint of His love. Because the needs seem to be endless, some days the 'if only' thoughts begin to mount.
If only we could convince our children to surrender their lives to Jesus.
If only our schools would allow songs of praises to the Lord.
If only we could gather at work to pray for the well-being of our company and co-workers.
If only we loved the Lord as much as He loves us.

This morning I was reminded that His love endures forever - FOREVER - in good times and in bad. No matter what the situation entails, He is both willing and able to make the difference that is needed in our lives . . .
because of who He is
because of His great love for us
because of His immeasurable wisdom
because of His mighty power
because of His faithfulness to keep His promises
because of His generosity
because of His compassion and mercy
because of His Holiness
because of His majesty
He is the Alpha and the Omega
He is the Bread of Life
His is the Living Water
He IS the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
~ you cannot DO enough - you cannot BE enough - to earn what He has given His life to give us.

The needs around us truly are endless . . . and what you focus on ultimately consumes you . . . so we need to live like the Leper and the Centurian in Matthew 8 . . . the Leper knew that if Jesus was willing (which, of course, He was) He could make him clean and the Centurian knew that Jesus only needed to speak and long distance healing would take place. Never once did either of them say "I know Lord that you're willing and able to help me BUT! How often my prayers are laced with 'buts'. How often I give more consideration to the problem than to the power of the one who is the ultimate answer!

Jesus IS willing.
Jesus IS able.
Let us give great thanks for His enduring love.
Let us give great thanks for He is the answer to every prayer that we've ever had - or ever will have.
Father, Your willingness to listen as we cry out to you in prayer is second only to your ability to provide the best possible answer to our prayers. In the powerful name of Jesus we give You our undying praises, for only You are worthy.
Amen and amen.
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