Hunger - Friday Praise & Pray (for others) December 10, 2021

What are you hungry for? This seems like such a simple question but the answer can be a huge indicator as to the current state of your walk with The Lord. It also is an indicator as to what we shall, or shall not, receive from Him.

Consider Proverbs 16:26 - The appetite of laborers works for them; their hunger drives them on.

Whatever you desire will motivate you. However not every motivation will receive God's stamp of approval and, therefore, His favor. In fact, sinful desires lead to sinful actions (Proverbs 4:23). This can cause the Lord to block one's path according to Hosea 2:6.

As such, you need to evaluate your desires. Are they righteous or wicked? You must do this being mindful of the warning contained in Proverbs 11:23 - The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.

Remember God gives gifts for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). And we know God's goodies are granted "to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Ephesians 4:12). If you don't have a heart that wants the common good by seeking to support God's work on earth you won't qualify for the promises He has available to you.

This begs a few questions. Are you supporting kingdom work? If so how? And if not, how can you? The Bible makes it clear that many don't get what they pray for because of their wrong motivation (James 4:3). May we not be among that number, IJMN, Amen.

And don't think you can wrap sinful desires in a pretty box then place it before the Lord. Galatians 6:7 - Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. God sees into the heart of every man (1 Samuel 16:7). Nothing can be hidden from Him (Hebrews 4:13). So instead of pretending to have good intentions, why not actually cultivate them?

Read the Bible, see what motivations God approves of. Ask Him to reveal how you can serve Him. Intercession is an integral way but we can't stop there. Orphans, the oppressed, widows are among those God fights for. He will bring His judgment upon those who treat them unfairly. How about fighting for them in word and deed? These are just some suggestions to get us thinking especially as the new year is upon us. Let us get God's guidance now so we stride into 2022 doing more for His kingdom here on earth.

May the Lord grant us grace to fulfill John 6:27 - Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on Him God the Father has placed His seal of approval.” Amen. That way our motives will honor Him and He will satisfy the desires of our hearts with good things as promised in Psalm 103:5.

I pray you will join us or Praise & Pray (for others) at 12 Noon EST. God bless you!