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In Touch - Nov. 7, 2006

In Touch Daily Devotional 
by Dr. Charles Stanley


November 7, 2006

Having a Rich Prayer Life

Ephesians 3:16-19

 

Conversations that are repetitive can cause us to lose interest. Prayer is conversation with our heavenly Father. If we reduce our prayers to a formula or routine, the effect can weaken our desire to talk to God. Paul’s prayers are just the opposite—energizing and full of life.

Consider his words as recorded in Ephesians chapter three. He asked God to help the Ephesians (and, in fact, all believers): To live life in God’s supernatural power. (verse 16-17a) The most important battles take place on the inside of us—in our mind and emotions. Paul asked God to strengthen our “inner man” so we can stand firm. He desired that our conduct be increasingly controlled by the Holy Spirit. That way, we can exhibit the life of Jesus in greater measure.

The apostle also asked God to help us comprehend Christ’s all-embracing love for us. (verse 17b-19) Paul wanted us to know three things about this subject: 1) We are rooted and established in the love of God, who sacrificed His Son for us, and in the love of Jesus, who died in our place; 2) Our new life in Jesus is to be nourished by His unchanging affection for us; and 3) Christ’s agape love is so wide and deep that it surpasses our understanding. Experiencing Jesus’ love gives us confidence to face whatever God allows in our life. It also enables us to care deeply for others.

The apostle Paul based his praise and petitions on the truths of God. The result was a rich and powerful prayer life. What about your own—is it growing stale? Choose to follow Paul’s example and pray the Scriptures. Imagine how exciting it will be to see God answer your requests.
 

FEATURED RESOURCE

 

The Ways of God
from Dr. Charles Stanley

 

God’s ways are always perfect, and following them leads to fulfillment and success. One of life’s undeniable truths is that your choices will ultimately determine your future. While you can decide for yourself what career field to enter or who to marry, nothing compares with seeking God first and relying on the wonderful principles of His Word. In this series, Dr. Stanley teaches that as you serve God and seek His ways, you’ll be blessed with peace, wisdom, and guidance for the journey ahead. Order here  now!

 

To see more resources from In Touch Ministries, please visit us at www.intouch.org  or go directly to our bookstore at In Touch Ministries.




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