Panting

I wonder if the Jerusalem church prayed for James to the degree that they prayed for Peter. Perhaps they did or perhaps James’ death galvanized them to more earnest prayer for Peter. Whatever the case with James, God did choose to inform us that “prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God” for Peter. Though we know they were astonished at Peter’s literal physical deliverance from prison, we don’t know the specifics of their petitions to God for him. And that is OK. From other Scriptures we can get very specific ideas to “fuel” our own praying for one another.

Source: Panting, Prayer Brings Deliverance, “Applying God’s Word to Me”

Jesus: The only name for salvation. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). I say that and offer no compromise. How can I flex on any of that when God’s Word is clear and unbending? I see no way to accept some sort of “equal partners” coexistence with any belief system that rejects any of that.

Source: Panting, Paul’s Proclamation in Rome, “Applying God’s Word to Me”

The Word, the hand, the grace, the Spirit — no wonder the church grew and prospered! That was then, but now…. Do I believe God could still work in His church that way? Yes! Well, then, do I believe He could work that way in me and my home congregation? Yes! Do I believe He will? Yes, if I want Him to. I do!

Source: Panting, Revival in the Growing Church, “Applying God’s Word to Me”

Where do I find my stability after I have lost it? Where do I get my strength when it weakens and fails? How do I rekindle my hope after it goes out in me? Who steadies my faith when life leaves it shaken and quivering?

Source: Panting, Mutual Ministry in Malta, “Applying God’s Word to Me”

Jesus — the name above all names. Jesus — King of kings. Jesus — “to him give all the prophets witness.” Jesus — of Whom the disciples witnessed. Jesus. What can I say about Him from the Scriptures? I’ll use some fragments from God’s Word, including some from today’s text.

Source: Panting, Light for the Gentiles, “Applying God’s Word to Me”