Do not quench the Spirit

Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil. ~I Thessalonians 5:19-22

God is always working. We, as Believers, are to expect something to happen that will work out for the good of those who love God and are the called to His purpose; which is us. Sometimes people will come up to you and say, "The Lord told me to give you a word." For many people, this would be a sign that a "kook" in in their midst. But, the Bible says that there are "prophetic utterances."

Therefore, when people bring news to you, test it and ask yourself if it lines up with the Word of God. If it does, then hold fast to it. Expect it to happen. Prepare yourself to receive it. Pray and ask God to help you receive it with thanksgiving. If it is not from God and therefore not good; reject it. We hold fast to those things that are from God and abstain from wickedness.

Get some wisdom about this issue from the Book of Esther!
Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman - Study Guide Buy Now

To Learn to Pray

Growing up, I never "learned to pray." I just "learned prayers." I am certain that many of you can related to that idea.  It's important "to learn to pray ."

What happens when you don't learn to pray is that you are stifled. The power of prayer doesn't seem to work for you. You begin to doubt the fact that God answers prayer, because "it seems" he never answered yours. You also are embarrassed to pray in public. It seems that saying a prayer in public is only for the "anointed." I want you to know that I have been there, too.  Let me tell you something that I learned. I learned that prayer is for everyone. Prayer can and does get answered everyday. And learning how to get your prayers answered is one of the most important life lessons a person can learn.

In The Power of Simple Prayer , Joyce Meyer takes the mystery out of talking with God by explaining and exploring the different types of prayer. Prayer is a powerful force that can help you gain wisdom in difficult situations, guidance in your relationships, and strength for success. Learn to unleash its power through praise, worship, thanksgiving, commitment, petition, perseverance, and intercession. Each chapter concludes with a brief summary and several "Prayer Points" to help you apply the lessons you are learning. 

Once you learn how to pray in a practical way, your confidence and the power of your prayers will come alive for you. You will begin to see God working in every area of your life.  

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