Jayyycuuup

Prayer is a time of petition, of thanksgiving and of course a time of hope- to be renewed and be given strength. Prayer is also a time of sacrifice and praise, a time of grace and sanctification. What I mean by petition is that we present our requests before the Lord, and of course, be it by His grand plan and will, it will be given. By thanksgiving, we rejoice in prayer and thank God for the things He has provided. Which in terms, is all things. For renewal, I think this is a way of seeking God's hand and being submissive. To be humble and pray that God makes straight your paths and preserves you under His continual righteousness. I know personally that after I get done praying I feel renewed- especially in the times that I am down and prayer is the last thing I want to do. Or when I fail God in some area- it is discouraging but God always lifts me back up. Along those same lines, it is also a time to have and be given an undivided heart, a time to be redirected and corrected. Prayer to me, and what I understand of it, is also a time of sacrifice. Now, I do not mean a time sacrifice, but a time to lay ourselves "empty" before the Lord and submit to Him. In Psalm 141:1-2, David explains this very thing, how his prayer be set before the Lord like an incense, that the lifting of his hands be like the evening sacrifice. Another thing I believe it is, is a time to gather together in the name of the Lord. As Christ said in the Gospel of Mathew (18:20) "For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." 1 Timothy 2:1-4 "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- 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 men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." I see prayer very effective in many aspects and areas of my life. It is a wonder why I spend more time standing then on my knees before the Lord proclaiming the mystery of Christ Jesus. My prayer life is not as good as it should be. It is not as bountiful and constant as I know it should. This is an area of which I am having to continue in. I pray every day, but selfishly, not as much as I should, not as much as I know I should. There are a lot of hurting people in the world who need prayer- and I understand the power of prayer and how effective it is and can be. . . . I think and believe, that apart of prayer is also a time of worship, or praise. A time to dwell on the greater things- like the love and mercy of the Lord. A time to receive and find mercy and grace to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16) And a time to lift up our soul- which goes in hand with the time of "sacrifice." Psalm 25:1-2 Praise the Lord. Praise, O servants of the Lord, praise the name of the Lord. Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore. From rising of the sun to the places where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised. The Lord is exalted over all nations, His glory above the heavens. Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on high, who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth? To you, Lord, I will lift up my soul; in you I trust, O my God." Two last thing about prayer, is a time to go before the Lord for forgiveness and a time for saying grace. I think (at least I know I did) when I got saved I prayed to the Lord and received Him as my Lord and Savior. So prayer is also a "door" to the Lord paid by the Blood of Jesus Christ- our Mediator! As for grace, we pray over our food and it is sanctified by the Lord.

Bless you Gary and your kind heart. I know this is very discouraging for you. Whatever you take out of this account, let it be to God's glory and be of a reasoning- i.e. continue to pray and understand the message, rather than the *why God.* May you grow in this and continue to know our Lord more and more- In His name, Amen. In the love of Christ, Jake

I think the love of Christ is present in our lives explicitly in this verse. . . 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." God is this love- this same love is manifested in us and should be present in our lives and in our walk as a believer.

This is a great verse; what are your thoughts on it? I think there are many things composed in this. . . So before I put out my thoughts, I want to ask a few questions if you don't mind What does it mean to be still? Why does it then say- "know that I am God" - what a reminder!! Then it says, I will be exalted- what does He mean by this?

I am curious to see what all your thoughts concerning this is? Whether the pacing is right- and if this is reliable evidence. .. . (I have not gone through the entire articles (scan read)- these are just ideas of the findings- there are also videos via YouTube- if interested.) http://www.wnd.com/2003/06/19382/ http://global-news-n-views.blogspot.com/2013/04/chariots-in-red-sea-irrefutable-evidence.html

I can not say *why* they think what they think, why they do what they do, or know why they say what they say- but as one believer to another, how much does that matter? They can think what they want after your tell them of Christ- there will be those who listen, and there will be those who don't. We are required to give and be ready to give an account for our belief : 1 Peter 3:15 "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:" And after that planting and watering- it is through the Work of the Holy Spirit that convicts and works in that individual. All we can do is tell them about Him and how to reach Him, from there it is he/she and God. 1 Corinthians 3:7 "So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase"

Amen and Amen. I stand in agreement concerning what Sevenseas has already said. The things already spoken are to be brought into remembrance by the Spirit of the Lord according to John 14. This is how we inevitably "test the spirits. to see if they are of God." One thing I would add, is that the Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of Truth for a reason. The Holy Spirit is a truth telling Teacher, that teaches us and leads us- not into calamity- but in peace. A scripture was brought to mind Gary, not sure what it means or will mean to you. . . .but here it is. Philippians 1:6 "And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns." ~Keep your head up brother, there is much work to be done!~ God bless and much love to you in our Lord Jesus Christ.

If Song of Songs were a symbolic book representing Christ and the Church and/or Israel and God then the sexual description would be disturbing. At least it would be to me. What do you think? Also it is placed with wisdom books in the Bible which would indicate that the early Church fathers thought it should be taken literally perhaps? This book portrays the importance of the healthy sexual relationship in marriage. It stands in contrast to the Law where the sexual relationship is corrupted such as adultery, homosexuality, etc. It also contrasts with the idea of the worldly woman in Proverbs to show where sexual advances are natural, joyful, and a blessing. This book shows that a man can enjoy his wife and a woman can enjoy her husband. God is love. God's love is eternal. This is God's greatest quality. We are made in God’s image to be sexual creatures. This includes emotions and physical attraction. That’s a good thing. This book is very helpful to me in understanding the love between a man and a woman. I read it a few times as a single man. Being married and re-reading it brings this book to life. While I don’t believe it is symbolic it has helped me understand the longing that God has for His people. God bless, GE I personally do not see a problem concerning this portrayal and interpretation of scripture. Solomon (as you know) was and is, very literate concerning women in totality. So I think understanding His writing style is crucial. From what I understand of the Song of Solomon, it is Christ to the church, along with that, to the believers. I think your description concerning that issue, makes it quite evident. (concerning the "how to live.") The reason I am lead to believe this is because I think Jesus is typified in the Bridegroom's love for, and marriage to, the bride. Jesus uses this same illustration Himself, when conducting a proper healthy relationship between a man and His wife- so I do not think it is any different here. Interesting Yacov. If this book of poetry is a depiction of Christ to the Church then how does one explain why Solomon had so many wives? Polygamy isn't exactly something God approved of... I believe all Scripture points to Christ as Messiah as a part of God's plan for himself. However, I don't believe that allegory or typography are present in this book. In the Song of Songs, it is to my understanding that it is the depiction between one man (Solomon) and one woman (the Shulamite) So I am not sure how Solomon having many wives, effects or takes away from the supposed typified message of Christ and the Church. This same argument can be applied to other biblical characters including Solomon. Obviously polygamy is not something God approves us, yet God still used them. Why? I believe it is because we fail, but God's message does not. God can and does use the least of these. I still think that this book typifies the Messiah- as do all of the books of the bible. So why should this book be any different? I do see why and do agree that this book should be applied as literal, but with that being said, there are elements that foreshadow the Church and it's relationship with the King, Jesus Christ.

Interesting, do you mind explaining the differences between all the different types of grace? It is to my understanding that there is only one underlining grace- and it is the Grace of God through Jesus Christ, via salvation, or "saving Grace."

Psalm 51:17 "You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God." Thoughts about this verse? So with this, I have two discussion topics.... 1) What is Grace and Mercy? 2) What makes a repentant heart?

If Song of Songs were a symbolic book representing Christ and the Church and/or Israel and God then the sexual description would be disturbing. At least it would be to me. What do you think? Also it is placed with wisdom books in the Bible which would indicate that the early Church fathers thought it should be taken literally perhaps? This book portrays the importance of the healthy sexual relationship in marriage. It stands in contrast to the Law where the sexual relationship is corrupted such as adultery, homosexuality, etc. It also contrasts with the idea of the worldly woman in Proverbs to show where sexual advances are natural, joyful, and a blessing. This book shows that a man can enjoy his wife and a woman can enjoy her husband. God is love. God's love is eternal. This is God's greatest quality. We are made in God’s image to be sexual creatures. This includes emotions and physical attraction. That’s a good thing. This book is very helpful to me in understanding the love between a man and a woman. I read it a few times as a single man. Being married and re-reading it brings this book to life. While I don’t believe it is symbolic it has helped me understand the longing that God has for His people. God bless, GE I personally do not see a problem concerning this portrayal and interpretation of scripture. Solomon (as you know) was and is, very literate concerning women in totality. So I think understanding His writing style is crucial. From what I understand of the Song of Solomon, it is Christ to the church, along with that, to the believers. I think your description concerning that issue, makes it quite evident. (concerning the "how to live.") The reason I am lead to believe this is because I think Jesus is typified in the Bridegroom's love for, and marriage to, the bride. Jesus uses this same illustration Himself, when conducting a proper healthy relationship between a man and His wife- so I do not think it is any different here.

JTC I agree, some translations even say "Messiah" instead of "The Christ." John 6:68 Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." With that, I also agree towards Peter's understanding of Christ! Amen. I am interested in what you mean by this? Each are adultery in the eyes of the Lord, so I do not think whether it be lifeless (formed by the hands of man) or an angel, makes a difference. . .mind explaining a bit?

Sorry, I should have been more specific. . . . But I wasn't looking for anything in particular- was just continuing conversation concerning the verse.

Nice bopeep Redemption, restoration and recreation! Amen! Though just to pick your brain a bit more, when you say Jesus is the Son of the living God- what do you mean?

This thread is two fold, Part one and Part two bearing on the same scripture- but to be discussed in two different settings. Luke 9:20 (partial) "But what about you?" He asked. "Who do you say I am?" Who do you say Jesus is and what does He mean to you? Luke 9:20 (the rest) Peter answering said, "The Christ of God." Also: Mathew 16:13-15 13 Jesus came into the country of Caesarea Philippi. He asked His followers, “Who do people say that I, the Son of Man, am?” 14 They said, “Some say You are John the Baptist and some say Elijah and others say Jeremiah or one of the early preachers.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” What do you think Peter means by this, "The Christ of God?"

I was shocked when reading this. . . .I am very glad about what the Dad said though; “It was a reaction. You’re brought up your whole life that God gives you good things, you’re blessed.”

Thank you for your response WIP and I agree! In hopes of furthering this, what do you find the point in "sacrifice of praise," and what does it do for a believer? I know what it does for me. Takes the focus off of myself and puts it back on Him. Instead of woe is me, it is praise You oh Lord. Amen bff! I agree. . . I think it is a bit of a "revival," if that makes sense. . .as you said, put's the focus back on Him and makes the sufficiency and upstanding joy, actually worth something. . .a true strength!

How is it misapplied? I think we should thank Him in all things, not just when things are going well for us. If you only give Him praise or thanks during good times then does that mean that you only appreciate Him then? This verse says ... Philippians 4 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Pray for all things with thanksgiving. (see above at what sevenseas and I were talking about)

Thank you for your response WIP and I agree! In hopes of furthering this, what do you find the point in "sacrifice of praise," and what does it do for a believer?

sevenseas Crystal clear

Amen nChrist, I agree!

sevenseas I quoted this from a Christian site, but it appears the person who is credited to this quote, was not the "founder." If that makes sense. . . From what I have found, Rich Vincent is a pastor who gave his interpretation of a book presented by Robert A. Emmons. (Who is a Psychologist) called "Thanks!" So the thoughts behind the initial quote is unknown. . . Though, I do not see how this is "incriminating" against the quote, or how it can support an unbiblical concept- especially in the appliance and scripture surrounding it. The bible says that every good thing comes from above (James 1:17) and that ALL things work to the good. (Romans 8:28) So what do you personally take away from the quote? "Gratitude looks underneath the surface. Gratitude "is not simply a form of "positive thinking" or a technique of "happy-ology," but rather a deep and abiding recognition and acknowledgment that goodness exists under even the worst that life offers." Or, what do you find unbiblical about the quote? (And if you have any questions, or many questions- please "fire-away." I think I have asked WAY more questions then you have, so catch up to me ahah. . .thank you again for your reply )

Great Thread Shiloh, I am very intrigued by it! As of right now, I will wait until you open up the discussion. . .because in all honesty I do not even know where to start. I will be waiting God bless you!

sevenseas Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that ALL things, work to the good. . .this is something that is often times hard to understand and interpret into our lives. For simplicity's sake I simply notify this as a promise. There is a quote I love concerning this by , Kimber Kauffmann, he writes, "All sunshine results in a desert." I believe there is a lot of truth in that. Therefore the constant need for Christ. We need those "rainy days," to keep us alive and dependent on Christ. The storms run out, as does the sun. . .but each should bring thanksgiving to the Lord, not for the sake of circumstances, but because He is who He is and loves us! No matter rain or shine, desert or forest. . . .we are called to bless the name of the Lord for He is good! 2 Corinthians 4:8-10 "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed, We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." I also like what you said about, "We are not promised a perfect life but that our inner person will be transformed." Paul describes this very thing! Made alive in Christ!! Hallelujah! Interesting viewpoint sevenseas! With the quote I brought up, what are your thoughts concerning "goodness exists under even the worst that life offers." Which mind you, brings into mind the, Problem of evil, "dilemma." Thoughts? By the way sevenseas, I forgot to do so earlier, but thank you for your time and for responding to this thread God bless yoU!

not quite sure where you are going with this one? Thanks I agree totally sevenseas Like you, I believe this verse is saying to be thankful in all things, not for all things. I am not sure we can be thankful for all things, but we can be thankful in the midst of all things. Sorry for not clarifying concerning the "gratitude" part. I saw a quote that said "Gratitude looks underneath the surface. Gratitude "is not simply a form of "positive thinking" or a technique of "happy-ology," but rather a deep and abiding recognition and acknowledgment that goodness exists under even the worst that life offers." (Rich Vincent) Thus I was wanting people's thought about this, and if it (in your opinion) relates to the OP. Hope that clarifies the confusion.