iPray: 1 Corinthians 10:13

The end of self-revelry is the start of freedom and victory, of relief, of peace and security, of love, of something so much greater than we could ever hope to be or achieve on our own... in the "death" of our "selfies" we find new life in Christ. 

1 Corinthians 10:13:  No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

What words of hope Paul presents us with, as our most wonderful sermon series, iRock:  The End of Self-Revelry, comes to a close.

We are not alone.

We should be encouraged.

We overcome.

Because of Jesus.

Jesus says in Matthew 26:41, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.  The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."

Prayer is definitely key, as it connects us to our source of strength, our capital G God.  We do not overcome against temptation alone. 

In light of this wonderful Scripture, how then do we pray and prepare our hearts and minds for Sunday?

Because we are not alone, but instead are blessed not only by God's presence, but also by the presence of brothers and sisters in Christ who are walking the same path and encountering similar struggles, let us pray for accountability and truth.  Isolation from God and from His Body has no place when it comes to freedom and victory from temptation and from sin.  John 8:32 Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.  James 5:16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.

Because we are encouraged by God's faithfulness, let us pray for continued daily presence on our part.  He is always available - let us strive to meet with Him daily.   John 15:5 I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.

Because we know this victory, or way out, comes from God and not our own strength, let us also pray for dependence on God as we set aside our prideful attitudes and fully lean into Him for support and strength.  1 Corinthians 1:25 For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for Your faithfulness, for the truth of Your Word, and for Your strength.  Refine us.  We need you.  Please draw near to us as we draw near to you. 

Amen

PoC|Coverage is tonight at 6pm... try it, you'll like it!

Blessings,
Pastor Celia