Samuel D. High
sdhigh@aristotle.net
-----Original Message-----
From: Apostle Tom <pressingon@hotmail.com>
Sent: Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:05:00 -0600
To: <pressingon@hotmail.com>
Subject: Morning Manna (Feb. 21); BP: I Thess. 5:12-22; RBTTY: Mk. 3:1-19;
February 21 “Unceasing Prayer”
“Pray without ceasing.”
I Thessalonians 5:17
As Jesus once told His disciples, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God” (Lk. 18:27).
Has there ever been a “Morning Manna” that seemed more impossible than today’s? Say it aloud: “Pray without ceasing.” One more time: “Pray without ceasing.” And one more time for good measure: “Pray without ceasing.”
Wouldn’t you agree that the word “impossible” seems appropriate for this mandate?
Assuredly so—just like the rest of the ones listed in this section of Paul’s exhortation to the Christians in Thessalonica: “Rejoice evermore” (v.16). “In everything give thanks—for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (v.18). “Quench not the Spirit” (v.19). “Despise not prophesyings” (v.20). “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good” (v.21). “Abstain from all appearance of evil” (v.22).
Is there anyone who can raise your hand and say, “I can do all those”?
Not hardly; in fact, if the truth be known, there’s none of us who can say “I do at least one of these all the time.”
Yet, knowing Paul’s words were/are inspired by the Holy Spirit (II Tim. 3:16), we must humble ourselves and pray, “Dear Lord, you know it’s impossible for me to do these ‘without ceasing’ for my ‘spirit is willing, but my flesh is weak’ (Rom. 7:15-24). Please help me fulfill Your will in my life by embodying these in all I think, say and do each day.”
In praying this way, the Heavenly Father—Who “searches our hearts and minds” (Rom. 8:27; I Cor. 2:10; Rev. 2:23) and knows all of our inward “motives and desires” (Heb. 4:12)—will say, “That’s good, My child. Let Me take over and My Spirit will help you accomplish these in every way.” Glory!!
Could it be our Lord had Paul list these in sequential order rather than some type of random, spiritual “laundry list?” Think about it: Is it possible to “pray without ceasing” apart from “rejoicing evermore”? And, is it possible to do either or both of these without “giving thanks in all things”?
No way.
However, “rejoicing always” presumes an “attitude of gratitude and praise,” which comes when we “rejoice ‘in the Lord’” (Phil. 4:4)—always remembering “He’s at hand” (Phil. 4:5)—and saturate our prayers with “thanksgiving” (Phil. 4:6). And, when these “ingredients” are present, we’re much more able to “pray without ceasing,” for we’re already in a state of worship.
Likewise, “praying without ceasing” doesn’t require bended knees, bowed head, closed eyes and clasped hands, though these help. Instead, it’s our inward “posture” (humility), not our outward one that enables us to continually commune and converse with the Father. Why not engage in “unceasing prayer and praise” right now?
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