Thursday, October 20, 2011

The 4 P's

“At this, Daniel went in to the king and asked for time, so that he might interpret the dream for him…Then Daniel returned…and explained the matter to his friends…He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery…During the night the mystery was revealed…Then Daniel praised the God of heaven.” Daniel 2:16-18.

This passage is very important in showing us not only how to pray but the importance of our belief in prayer. Daniel learned from the king’s commander that the entire group of wise men for which the king called upon would soon be executed. The king felt that because a few of the men couldn’t reveal and interpret his dream that the lot of them should be extinguished. Daniel and his friends were among these men. Daniel immediately approached this furious king who ordered his execution. He not only had the courage to approach his foe but had the faith of expectancy that God would reveal the dream and its interpretation to him. But he knew he must have time to pray. He did not proceed without prayer. He not only knew the importance of pleading for God’s wisdom, instead of his own, but also knew the necessity and urgency to enlist his prayer partners. His partners were immediate in their prayers and specific in their petitions. Through the darkness of the night God revealed the dream to Daniel. The next thing that Daniel did was paramount – He praised…right then…before the confrontation with the king had even occurred.

We must follow the example of Daniel when approaching our challenges. Whether they are challenges in the details of life or the huge storms of life we are given a road map that will not lead us astray.

We must proclaim that God will reveal, will save, and will deliver.

We must petition others to pray and recognize the important of the entire Body of Christ. As the Body of Christ, when we are asked to pray we must not tarry. Time is precious.

We must posture ourselves in a position to receive from God removing our own wisdom, perceptions and predetermined outcomes.

We must praise Him for His power, strength and delivery before we face our giants, believing He will rescue us.

All of these steps are essential in the fellowship with God and the Body of Christ through prayer. Let us be courageous in our approach and expectant in our prayers.

No comments: