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Lord’s Prayer Series – No Pain, No Gain!

October 24, 2017 by John J. Grosboll

Winston Churchill once said, “Difficulties mastered are opportunities won.” It would be beneficial to remember that saying when experiencing terrible loss and trouble. Though effectively disguised at the time, there may be a blessing to follow.

We can be assured that any temptation we may face, it is not God Who tempts us but the enemy of souls, Satan, who, disguised as an angel of light, even tried to tempt Jesus while He was in the wilderness after His baptism.

The devil lays snares for people to walk into. Most of the time they do not even realize that they are ensnared until it is too late. The apostle Paul mentions this in many different places in his writings. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles [something involving trickery] of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Ephesians 6:10–13.

Then Paul goes on in verses 14–18 about the necessity of prayer and study and an understanding of the truths of the Bible so that the snares or temptations of the devil will not deceive you. Writing to the Corinthian church he said, “… such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness, whose end will be according to their works.” II Corinthians 11:13–15.

Notice that the devil comes as an angel from heaven and deceives people into thinking that they are having a wonderful experience and gaining knowledge, as he did with Eve in the Garden of Eden. The devil told her that if she ate the fruit she had been commanded by God to leave alone, she would become like God and know good and evil. It was never God’s intention for the human family to know anything about evil. Unfortunately for the human race, our first parents did learn about evil through disobedience, and since then we have all seen the results of evil. It involves disappointment, pain, suffering, sickness, strife, war and eventually, death. The human race would never have known any of these things if we had always been obedient and never partaken of the forbidden fruit.

However, people criticize Adam and Eve and wonder why they disobeyed. Yet people today continue to do the same thing, to partake of the knowledge of good and evil, which is actually a mixture of good and evil. To partake of those things that God has forbidden can only get us in trouble. Jesus said that we should pray for protection that we would not be led and tempted to engage in any forbidden behavior. Too often in our prayer life we are tempted to pray in a selfish manner, just for our own needs or that of our own family, but the Lord’s Prayer is not a selfish prayer.

Jesus said, “… lead us not into temptation …” (Matthew 6:13). [Emphasis added.] This is a prayer from an unselfish heart that includes our fellow mortals who are also in need of divine assistance and guidance on their way to the heavenly kingdom. In the Bible we are told that we should do good to all men. Notice what it says in Galatians 6:10: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”

In the letter written by the apostle James, he says, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16 literal translation. Our prayers are to include the needs of others.

Temptation affects the entire human family. None of us can escape it. Only those who seek help from God will escape the ruin of walking on dangerous ground, because there is no place where you can go in this world, no earthly shrine or fortress, where you will be free from temptation.

Satan regards not the sanctity of place. He enters the Garden of Eden and he stands on the pinnacle of the temple. He is not deterred by the influence of holy companionship. He tempts Achan in the camp of Israel, Judas among the disciples of Christ, Ananias and Sapphira among the first Christians in Jerusalem. He is not afraid to attack the most favored saints, David, the man after God’s own heart, Peter, the first of the apostles and the three disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. He tempted even Jesus, the Lord of glory. He is not moved to pity by the helplessness and innocence of childhood. He will not relinquish hope, even when the aged pilgrim is on his deathbed. Everywhere and always he tempts.

Temptation is all around us and we cannot avoid it, but while there is no place where we can go where we are exempt from it, there is a refuge where we are safe from its defeat. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Proverbs 18:10.

The “name” mentioned here is referring to God’s character. If Christ abides in us and we abide in Him, then we are safely enclosed by an impregnable fortress. We cannot be saved from being tempted, but we can be saved from yielding to its power. It is true that the devil is the conqueror of humanity, but it is also true that Jesus Christ, called in the Scriptures our elder brother, came to this world in human flesh and conquered the devil in His humanity.

The devil trembles and flees before the weakest saint who finds a refuge in the all-conquering name of Jesus, our strong tower that affords us safety when we run into it.

There is not a person alive who doesn’t want to be safe, and Christ is the fortress of His people. The person who has fully yielded himself to Jesus Christ is barricaded, protected, and surrounded with infinite power. Even in this world, the person who is thus possessed by the Captain of the Lord’s host is impregnable to the assaults of the evil one. In fact, the only way you can escape succumbing to temptation in this world is if you find the one safe and true Refuge.

Jesus is called a “Refuge from the storm” (Isaiah 25:4). The Bible records many instances of people who were terribly, terribly tried. One example is the patriarch Job, who is described as “blameless and upright” (Job 1:1). Yet notice the terrible experience that Job went through: “Now there was a day when his sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house; and a messenger came to Job and said, ‘The oxen were plowing and the donkeys feeding beside them, when the Sabeans raided them and took them away—indeed they have killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!’

“While he was still speaking, another also came and said, ‘The fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and the servants, and consumed them; and I alone have escaped to tell you!’ While he was still speaking, another also came and said, ‘The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels and took them away, yes, and killed the servants with the edge of the sword; and I alone have escaped to tell you!’ While he was still speaking, another also came and said, ‘Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, and suddenly a great wind came from across the wilderness and struck the four corners of the house, and it fell on the young people, and they are dead; and I alone have escaped to tell you!’

“Then Job arose and tore his robe, and shaved his head; and he fell to the ground and worshiped. And he said: ‘Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return there. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.’ In all this Job did not sin nor charge God with wrong.” Job 1:13–22.

Job was tempted to accuse God. He lost all of his property and then his ten children in what we would call today a hurricane or a tornado. His whole family was gone, yet he did not blame God for it or sin against Him because of his terrible losses. Losing his property and his children was just the first part of his trial.

We read that God allowed the devil to also touch his person but not take his life. “So Satan answered the Lord and said, ‘Skin for skin! Yes, all that a man has he will give for his life. But stretch out Your hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will surely curse You to Your face!’ And the Lord said to Satan, ‘Behold, he is in your hand, but spare his life.’ So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord, and struck Job with painful boils from the sole of his foot to the crown of his head. And he took for himself a potsherd with which to scrape himself while he sat in the midst of the ashes. Then his wife said to him, ‘Do you still hold fast to your integrity? Curse God and die!’ But he said to her, ‘You speak as one of the foolish women speaks. Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?’ In all this Job did not sin with his lips.” Job 2:4–10.

Job’s trial is recorded in the 42 chapters of the book of Job. These attacks of the enemy were designed to bring about his defeat and ruin, but what happened? Through his submission to God these attacks resulted in the devil being defeated to the glory of God.

Satan’s attempt to ruin Job resulted in revealing himself as the liar and evil intelligence that he is. The devil’s sole intent is to tempt the inhabitants of this world into sin, so that they will curse God, ignore Him, and blame Him for their troubles. The book of Job is an integral part of the Bible that enlightens the seeker after truth who it is, in fact, that is the source and manufacturer of all our trials and tribulations.

The very weapons that Satan designed to weaken Job and cause him to curse God were used by the Lord to reveal to Job his unknown weaknesses so that he could become strong where he had been weak. The apostle Paul had a very similar experience. Paul met the Lord on the Damascus road. The Bible says the light around the Lord shone brighter than the sun (Matthew 17:12). After that encounter, the apostle Paul had trouble with his eyesight, describing it this way: “And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” II Corinthians 12:7–10.

God has not promised that we will have freedom from trials and temptations in this world. But He has promised us something far better. He has promised that when in trouble we have a fortress (Psalm 91:2). His strength is made perfect in our weakness and His grace will be given and is sufficient for all of our needs (II Corinthians 12:9). In every age God’s people have met various trials, some even to be called to martyrdom; but as history has proven, God’s grace is always sufficient to meet any trial.

God uses the trials that come along to develop character in His people. God brings beauty out of ashes. Although God turns into blessings all of Satan’s attempt to destroy, we should do everything in our power not to walk rashly into temptation. We must be careful to keep off the enemy’s ground. One of the great temptations of youth is the temptation of sexual lust. In violation of the Ten Commandments, Satan tempts the youth to indulge in sexual activity before making a commitment in marriage. Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, gave the following advice to young people: “My son, pay attention to my wisdom; lend your ear to my understanding, that you may preserve discretion, and your lips may keep knowledge. For the lips of an immoral woman drip honey, and her mouth is smoother than oil; but in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword. Her feet go down to death, her steps lay hold of hell [the grave]. Lest you ponder her path of life—her ways are unstable; you do not know them.

“Therefore hear me now, my children, and do not depart from the words of my mouth. Remove your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house.” Proverbs 5:1–8.

Then Solomon goes on to explain why you should not deliberately walk into temptation: “Lest you give your honor to others, and your years to the cruel one.” Verse 9.

James also provides guidance on avoiding temptations. “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7.

The thirteenth chapter of Genesis tells what Lot did after he separated from Abraham. It says that, “Lot dwelt in the cities of the plain and pitched his tent towards Sodom. But the men of Sodom were exceedingly wicked and sinful against the Lord.” Genesis 13:12, 13 literal translation. They were so wicked that eventually God sent fire from heaven and burned those wicked cities. Lot lost almost everybody in his family. In a sense, if you read the whole story, he did lose everybody for he beheld the wicked cities and his family got involved in sinful, sensual pleasure. It is dangerous to do what Lot did.

The Bible has a lot to say about avoiding even the appearance of evil. “Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” I Thessalonians 5:21–23.

We have an obligation as free moral agents to not walk into temptation. In fact, we should flee from those situations where we would be tempted and might be overcome. The apostle Paul wrote to Timothy about this very thing. He said, “Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” II Timothy 2:22.

To the Corinthians Paul wrote, “Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body.” 1 Corinthians 6:18. And again, “Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry …” I Corinthians 10:14. And to Timothy, “But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life.” I Timothy 6:11, 12.

God has created us all as free moral agents. We are responsible for what we look at, listen to, what we practice, and what we engage in. No one else is responsible for our actions. This earth is part of a moral universe, and one day, on the Day of Judgment, all will give an account of the life that we have chosen to live. The prophets and the apostles in both the Old and New Testaments taught this. So, do not pray not to be led into temptation and then directly walk into temptation’s way contrary to what you have just prayed.

Like the Bible itself, the Lord’s Prayer ends where it began. It starts with God and His perfection and it brings us back again after our contact with sin and victory over evil. “Forever” is a proper ending for the Lord’s Prayer. This exultant ascription of praise and honor to the God of heaven is not found only at the end of the Lord’s Prayer, but this is something that is common in recorded prayers in both the Old and the New Testament.

Praise is part of effectual prayer. The Bible says that praise is comely or beautiful for the upright (Psalm 33:1.) God said, “Whoever offers praise glorifies Me.” Psalm 50:23.

Many of the Psalms end in praise, even those that represent deep repentance and heart-rending anguish of sin-burdened souls crying out for pardon and cleansing. Humble and contrite souls praise God for His love, His grace, and His mercy. Fifteen of the Psalms end with the expression, “Praise ye the Lord.”

The ending in the Lord’s Prayer is a closing plea that the seven petitions of the prayer be granted. It all presents an argument as to the reasons why the prayer was offered because the person has expectation for an answer from One Who is able to answer every single one of these petitions. In fact, He is able to answer more than we can ask.

In Ephesians 3:20 literal translation, Paul says, “Now to Him Who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.”

So, we expect an answer when we pray, not based on something that we have or can do, not based on something that we can do to gain merit. We expect an answer because of God’s character and power, and that He is able to answer every single petition in this prayer. So as you pray the words, “Thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory” (Matthew 6:13), ask the Lord to fulfill each one of the petitions of the prayer of Jesus in your life so that you, one day, can be part of the kingdom of glory when it is set up.

May the Lord’s Prayer become a daily feature in each one’s life. It is one of request that the Lord will help us to live the way our Lord and Master lived, giving us an example and offering the power of the Holy Spirit to help us in our journey. He alone is able to keep us from falling (Jude 1:24).

(Unless appearing in quoted references or otherwise identified, Bible texts are from the New King James Version.)

Pastor John J. Grosboll is Director of Steps to Life and pastors the Prairie Meadows Church of Free Seventh-day Adventists in Wichita, Kansas. He may be contacted by email at: historic@stepstolife.org, or by telephone at: 316-788-5559.

Children’s Story – Child at Prayer

October 18, 2017 by Sabbath Readings

A few weeks since, in coming down the North River, I was seated in the cabin of the magnificent steamer Isaac Newton, in conversation with some friends. It was becoming late in the evening, and one after another, seeking repose, made preparations to retire to their berths; some, pulling off their boots and coats, and lying down to rest, while others, in the attempt to make it seem as much like home as possible, threw off more of their clothing—each one as his comfort or apprehension of danger dictated.

I had noticed on deck a fine looking boy, of about six years of age, following round a man evidently his father, whose appearance indicated him to be a foreigner, probably a German—a man of medium height and respectable dress. The child was unusually fair and fine looking, with handsome features and an intelligent and affectionate expression of countenance, and from under his German cap fell chestnut hair, and thick, clustering curls.

After walking about the cabin for a time the father and son stopped within a few feet of where we were seated, and commenced to prepare for going to bed. I watched them. While the little fellow was undressing himself, the father adjusted and arranged the bed the child was to occupy, which was an upper berth. Having finished this, his father tied a handkerchief around the boy’s head to protect his curls. This done I looked for him to seek his resting-place; but instead of this he quietly kneeled down upon the floor, put his little hands together in a beautifully child-like and simple manner, and resting his arms upon the lower berth, against which he knelt, began his vesper prayer.

I listened and I could hear the murmuring of his sweet voice, but could not distinguish the words he spoke. There were men around him—Christian men—retiring to rest without prayer; or, if praying at all, a kind of mental desire for protection, without sufficient courage or piety to kneel down in the steamboat’s cabin, and before strangers acknowledge the goodness of God, and ask His protection and love.

This was the result of some pious mother’s training. Where was she now? How many times had her kind hands been laid on the sunny locks as she taught him to lisp his prayer.

A beautiful sight it was, that child at prayer, in the midst of the busy, thoughtless throng. He alone, of this worldly multitude, drew nigh to heaven. I thanked the parental love that had taught him to lisp his evening prayer, and could scarcely refrain from weeping then, nor can I now, as I see again that sweet child, in the crowded tumult of the steamboat’s cabin, bending in devotion before his Maker.

When the little boy had finished his evening prayer, he arose and kissed his father most affectionately, who then put him in his berth for the night. I felt a strong desire to speak to them, but deferred it till morning. When morning came the confusion of landing prevented me from seeing them again. But if ever I meet that boy in his happy youth, in his anxious manhood, in his declining years, I will thank him for the influence and example of that night’s devotion, and bless the name of the mother who taught him.

Sabbath Readings for the Home Circle, vol. 2, 158–160.

Sermon on the Mount Series – A Quiet Place

October 6, 2017 by John J. Grosboll

Some people believe that their prayers have merit. If this is so, then it could easily be concluded that the longer the prayer, the greater the merit. What is the truth? If a person prayed long enough, would the prayer have enough merit to partially expiate for sin or is it possible that even eloquent prayers could be just idle words?

Jesus said, “When You pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly” (Matthew 6:5).

In this passage of Scripture, the Lord is not telling us that we should not pray in public. He Himself prayed in public many times as recorded in the Scripture. But what He is teaching is that a private prayer should not be made public. In our private devotions, our prayers are to reach the ears of no one except a prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to hear the burden of our private petitions.

Jesus said, when you pray, go into your room; enter your closet. Have a place for private prayer where you can be alone with God. Jesus Himself had private places for communion with God. That, by the way, is the way that Judas Iscariot knew where to lead the people when he betrayed Him. He knew that the garden of Gethsemane was a place Jesus often went to in the evening to pray.

Jesus said to pray to your Father who sees in secret. In the name of Jesus we may come into God’s presence with the same confidence that a small child comes to a parent. No man is needed as a mediator. Through Jesus we may open our hearts to God as One Who knows and loves us and hears us.

In the secret place of prayer, where no one but God sees or hears, we are free to pour out to Him the most secret and hidden desires of the heart, and the Father has promised that He will hear. Remember, He is a Father of infinite love and pity and He never fails to answer the cry of human need. He will speak to us when we take time to talk to Him. Here’s what the Bible says about His character in James 5:11, last part: “… the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.” The Lord is indeed very compassionate and merciful. He is of tender mercy. He waits unwearied and loves to hear the confessions of the wayward and to accept their penitence. He watches longingly for some return of gratitude in the same way a mother watches for a smile of recognition from her beloved child. He wants us to understand how earnestly and tenderly His heart yearns over us. And He wants us to bring to Him our trials, our sorrows, our troubles, our wounds, our weakness, and our emptiness. He can supply all of our need. The Bible teaches that never has one been disappointed who came to Him.

Notice what it says in Psalm 34:5: “They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces were not ashamed.” The Lord answers the prayer of even the humblest of His children (verse 6).

When we come to the Lord in secret, telling Him our needs and pleading with Him for help, we will not plead in vain. Jesus said, “… your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly” (Matthew 6:6). If we make Jesus our daily companion and friend, we will become assimilated to His image. By looking to Jesus, we will have an increase in piety, purity, and fervor.

In Matthew 6:7, Jesus continued talking about prayer. He said, “… when you pray, do not use vain repetitions like the heathen do” (literal translation). Now the heathen, then and now, looked upon their prayers as having in themselves merit to atone for sin. Therefore, the longer the prayer, the greater the merit. If they could become holy by their own efforts, they would have something in themselves of which to rejoice, some ground for the boasting. This perspective of prayer is the result of the idea of self-expiation, the principle which lies at the foundation of false religion. The Pharisees had adopted this pagan idea of prayer. It is by no means extinct, even in our time, even among those who profess to be Christians.

When we repeat set, customary phrases, and the heart feels no need of God, we are just repeating, going over, a formal prayer of the same character as the vain repetitions of the heathen. Nobody wants to talk to a friend who’s just mumbling the same set words and phrases in his mind, and whose heart is not in the conversation. The Lord isn’t interested in hearing a prayer like that either.

Prayer is not an expiation for sin. It does not have virtue or merit in itself. All the eloquent words that we might command are not equivalent to even one holy desire. Even the most eloquent prayers can be worthless, idle words if they do not express the true sentiment of the heart. But if we pray from an earnest heart, if we simply express the real wants of our soul, the same way that we would ask an earthly friend for a favor and expect that it would be received, then we have prayed a prayer of faith, and that prayer will, for sure, be answered.

God is not in need of our ceremonial compliments, but even the unspoken cry of a heart that is broken and subdued with a sense of sin and utter weakness and helplessness will find its way to the Father of all mercy.

As Jesus continued talking about the Christian life in Matthew 6:24, He said, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.”

Notice what Jesus said. He didn’t say you should not serve God and mammon. He said, you cannot serve God and mammon. Mammon, by the way, is a Greek word that simply means real estate, money, property, wealth, material possessions. Jesus said you can’t serve God and material things. He said this cannot be done. In other words, no one can occupy a neutral position. There is no middle class who neither love God nor serve the enemy of righteousness, because the facts of the matter are, if I do not give myself completely to God, I am under the control of another power, listening in my mind to another voice, whose suggestions are of an entirely different character.

If I try to give God half and half service, that actually places me on the side of the enemy as a successful ally of the hosts of darkness. So, when men claim to be Christians, to be soldiers of Christ, but engage with the confederacy of Satan and help along his side, they prove themselves to be actually enemies of Christ instead of the professed friends of Christ which they say they are. What happens then is that they betray sacred trusts and form a link between Satan and the true Christians, aiding Satan in his constant efforts to steal away the hearts of Christ’s solders.

We are talking about the battle for the mind and heart. We are not talking about just outward words or behavior. When you think this through, remember that Jesus said that you cannot serve God and mammon.

The strongest bulwark of vice in our world is not the terrible life of some abandoned sinner or a degraded outcast. The strongest bulwark of vice in our world is the life which otherwise appears virtuous, honorable, and noble, but in which one sin is fostered or one vice indulged. When there is somebody who is struggling with some terrible temptation, the example of such a person is one of the most powerful enticements to sin. Thus a person who claims to be a Christian but indulges one sin, one vice, is used by Satan to be a stumbling block to others so that they not only stumble in this life, but may even forfeit eternal life.

In the apostle John’s first epistle, he wrote about this problem, saying things that should cause us to sit up and pay attention. “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world” (I John 2:15, 16). You cannot love both.

Jesus said, as recorded in Matthew 6:31–33, “… do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”

Do not be so caught up in worldliness that the sum and substance of your life is just trying to make a living, or getting material possessions. He says that is what the nations do; their whole life is absorbed in getting food, and drink, and clothing, and whatever material things they need. Is there a better way to live, a higher way to live, so that you do not need to be pressed down all the time, just trying to survive, and yet not knowing if you will be able to survive?

The people who were listening to Jesus speak these words were still anxiously awaiting Him to make an announcement of an earthly kingdom that He would set up. Jesus was opening to them in this discourse the treasures of heaven. But the question uppermost in their minds was, how will a connection with this man advance my prospects in this world? Interestingly, that is the same question many people are asking today. What church can I go to that will best advance my interests, my worldly interests, my professional or business interests?

Jesus shows them that in making the things of this world their supreme anxiety, they were like the heathen nations around them, living as if there were no God whose tender care was over all His creatures. Jesus said, the nations seek after these things, but your heavenly Father knows that you need all of these things (Luke 12:30).

In other words, Jesus is saying, I have come to open to you a kingdom of love, and righteousness, and peace. Open your hearts to receive this kingdom and make its service your highest interest. Even though it is a spiritual kingdom that I am bringing you, do not be afraid, do not fear that your needs in this life will be uncared for. If you give yourself to God’s service, the One who has all power in heaven and earth will provide for your needs. Jesus said, seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all of these things – that’s the things necessary for this life, food and clothing – will be given to you.

Now in saying this, Jesus does not release us from the necessity of effort. He does not say that we do not have to do anything, that God will get it for you. In this same chapter, He talked about how God fulfills the needs of the birds. “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them” (verse 26). How does the heavenly Father feed the birds? Does He put the food in their mouths? Absolutely not. He provides the food, but they have to go and find it.

In the same way, God provides for the needs of all of His sons and daughters in this world, but that does not release us from the necessity of effort. When Adam and Eve sinned, God told Adam that from this time forward, he was going to eat bread in the sweat of his face. (See Genesis 3:19.) But Jesus teaches us that we are to make Him first, and last, and best in everything. In other words, as Christians, we are not to engage in any business, or follow any pursuit, or seek any pleasure that would hinder the outworking of His righteous character in our lives.

Whatever we do is to be done with seeking God and His righteousness first and uppermost in our mind. You see, friend, God’s everlasting arm encircles every soul who turns to Him for aid, however feeble that soul may be; whether that person is in poverty or wealth, in sickness or health. Whether they are educated or uneducated, simple or wise, all are provided for in the treasures and promises of His grace.

The Bible says that the precious things of this world are going to pass away, but the soul that lives for God will abide with Him. Notice what the apostle John said, commenting on this very same thing, several years later. In I John 2:17 he says, “The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” So, if you are one of those who learns in this world to lean on God for guidance and wisdom, to seek Him for direction and commit your life to Him, He will not only be your comfort and hope in this world, even amid loss and affliction, but in the world to come you will be welcomed to an everlasting home where the tree of life will yield for you its fruit every month. The literal translation of Isaiah 54:10 says, “The mountains shall depart, the hills be removed, but My kindness will not depart from you, neither will My covenant of peace be removed from you, says the Lord, who has mercy on you.” Because God cares for everyone who turns to Him for help and shields and protects them, we do not need to live a life that is full of worry.

Are you aware, friend, that one of the biggest health problems in the western nations today is depression brought on by continual anxiety and worry? When Jesus lived in this world, He dignified life in all its details by keeping before men the glory of God and by subordinating everything else to the will of His Father. If we follow His example, He gives us the assurance that all things needful for this life shall be added.

He does not promise, by the way, that you will have the luxuries of life in this world. You’ll have more luxuries in the future world than anyone has in this world. In this world, what is promised is what you need, not necessarily what you want. Since you have this promise, if you have committed your life to Him, you do not need to worry. Jesus gives us advice on that very point in the last verse in Matthew 6. He says, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble” (verse 34).

If you have given yourself to God, to do His work, you do not need to worry or be anxious about what is going to happen tomorrow, because, the One, whose servant you are knows the end from the beginning. The Bible says that very clearly in the book of Isaiah, where God says that He knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). So the events of tomorrow, which are hidden from our view, are open to His view; they are open to the eyes of Him who is omnipotent. If we take everything into our own hands, if we decide we want to manage our own life, if we want to depend on our own wisdom for success, then we are taking a burden that God has not given us and we are trying to bear it without His aid. We are taking upon ourselves the responsibility that belongs to God, and thus we are really putting ourselves in His place. Then we may well be anxious and fearful for our needs, but if we really believe that God loves us and means to do us good, we will be able to cease worrying about the future. We will begin to trust God as a small child trusts a loving parent. Then, our troubles and torments will disappear, for our will will be swallowed up in the will of God.

In promising us this kind of help, Jesus did not promise that He would bear the worry or anxiety or burdens of tomorrow. He said to the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9, “My grace is sufficient for you … .” Like the manna that He gave the children of Israel in the wilderness, His grace is bestowed each day for that day’s need. One day alone is ours and during this day we are to live for God.

Just this one day we have to put our hand in the hand of Christ and if we trust Him with everything in our life, our purposes, our plans, casting all our care upon Him, He says, “I know the thoughts that I think toward you, … thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV). “In returning and rest shall you be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength” (Isaiah 30:15, literal translation).

Dear friend, if you seek the Lord daily and experience daily conversion, if you will of your own spiritual choice be free and joyous in God, in His service you will find all your murmurings stilled and all your difficulties removed.

(Unless appearing in quoted references or otherwise identified, Bible texts are from the New King James Version.)

Bible Study Guides – Christ Prays for His Disciples

October 5, 2017August 10, 2017 by Reformation Herald Publishing

August 27 – September 2, 2017

Key Text

“I in them, and Thou in Me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that Thou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hast loved Me” (John 17:23).

Study Help: The Desire of Ages, 685–690.

Introduction

“The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have.” The Acts of the Apostles, 475.

Sunday

1 RESULTS OF KNOWING CHRIST

Having concluded His instructions to the disciples, for what did Jesus pray? John 17:1–3.

Note: “The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. This is the knowledge that works transformation of character. Received into the life, it will re-create the soul in the image of Christ. This is the knowledge that God invites His children to receive, beside which all else is vanity and nothingness.” The Acts of the Apostles, 475.

Compare Hosea 6:3 with John 17:3 to understand the result of knowing Christ.

Note: “ ‘This is life eternal,’ Christ declared, ‘that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent’ (John 17:3). These words mean much. It is only by knowing Christ that we can know God. The Sent of God calls upon all to listen to these words. They are the words of God, and all should give heed to them; for by them they will be judged. To know Christ savingly is to be vitalized by spiritual knowledge, to practise [sic] His words. Without this, all else is valueless.” The Signs of the Times, January 27, 1898.

Monday

2 PREPARATION OF SUCCESSORS

Concerning the words of Christ, what conviction did the disciples reach as a result of their association with Him? John 7:17; 17:7.
What did Jesus then declare about the belief of the apostles? John 17:8. How do these words apply to us today?

Note: “[John 17:3, 8 quoted.] Here is the work laid before us, to be representatives of Christ, as He in our world was the representative of the Father. We are to teach the words given us in the lessons of Christ. … We are in the antitypical day of atonement, and not only are we to humble our hearts before God and confess our sins but we are, by all our educating talent, to seek to instruct those with whom we are brought in contact, and to bring them by precept and example to know God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent.” Christian Education, 157.

In whose behalf, specifically, did Jesus offer His prayer in John 17? John 17:9.

Note: “He [our great High Priest] is making intercession for the most lowly, the most oppressed and suffering, for the most tried and tempted ones.” The Review and Herald, August 15, 1893.

How is Jesus glorified through His disciples? John 17:10, 11. What is necessary in order for this work to occur?

Note: “Only as they were united with Christ could the disciples hope to have the accompanying power of the Holy Spirit and the cooperation of angels of heaven. With the help of these divine agencies they would present before the world a united front and would be victorious in the conflict they were compelled to wage unceasingly against the powers of darkness. As they should continue to labor unitedly, heavenly messengers would go before them, opening the way; hearts would be prepared for the reception of truth, and many would be won to Christ.” The Acts of the Apostles, 90, 91.

Tuesday

3 UNITED IN CHRIST

In the prayer of Christ, what point is repeatedly mentioned as essential for the church? John 17:21–23.

Note: “He [Christ] prays that His disciples may be one, even as He and the Father are one; and this unity of believers is to be as testimony to the world that He has sent us, and that we bear the evidence of His grace.

“We are to be brought into a sacred nearness with the world’s Redeemer. We are to be one with Christ, as He is one with the Father. What a wonderful change the people of God experience in coming into unity with the Son of God! We are to have our tastes, inclinations, ambitions, and passions all subdued, and brought into harmony with the mind and spirit of Christ. This is the very work that the Lord is willing to do for those who believe in Him. Our life and deportment are to have a molding power in the world. The spirit of Christ is to have a controlling influence over the life of His followers, so that they will speak and act like Jesus.” The Review and Herald, July 2, 1889.

How can church unity be achieved and maintained? 1John 1:7.

Note: “A union of believers with Christ will as a natural result lead to a union with one another, which bond of union is the most enduring upon earth. We are one in Christ, as Christ is one with the Father. Christians are branches, and only branches, in the living Vine. One branch is not to borrow its sustenance from another. Our life must come from the parent vine. It is only by personal union with Christ, by communion with Him daily, hourly, that we can bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit.” Testimonies, vol. 5, 47, 48.

“The success of our work depends upon our love to God and our love to our fellowmen. When there is harmonious action among the individual members of the church, when there is love and confidence manifested by brother to brother, there will be proportionate force and power in our work for the salvation of men. Oh, how greatly we need a moral renovation! Without the faith that works by love, you can do nothing. May the Lord give you hearts to receive this testimony.”

Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, 188.

Wednesday

4 NOT OF THE WORLD

What does Christ say concerning His disciples and the world? John 17:13, 14; 1John 2:15; James 4:4.

Note: “The early Christians were indeed a peculiar people. Their blameless deportment and unswerving faith were a continual reproof that disturbed the sinner’s peace. Though few in numbers, without wealth, position, or honorary titles, they were a terror to evildoers wherever their character and doctrines were known. Therefore they were hated by the wicked, even as Abel was hated by the ungodly Cain. For the same reason that Cain slew Abel, did those who sought to throw off the restraint of the Holy Spirit, put to death God’s people. It was for the same reason that the Jews rejected and crucified the Saviour—because the purity and holiness of His character was a constant rebuke to their selfishness and corruption. From the days of Christ until now His faithful disciples have excited the hatred and opposition of those who love and follow the ways of sin.” The Great Controversy, 46.

What is God’s plan for His children as far as the influences of the world are concerned? John 17:15, 16.

Note: “By His own example the Saviour has shown that His followers can be in the world and yet not of the world. He came not to partake of its delusive pleasures, to be swayed by its customs, and to follow its practices, but to do His Father’s will, to seek and save the lost. With this object before him the Christian may stand uncontaminated in any surroundings. Whatever his station or circumstances, exalted or humble, he will manifest the power of true religion in the faithful performance of duty.” The Acts of the Apostles, 467.

“It is impossible for any to discern the truth while the world has their affections. The world comes between them and God, beclouding the vision and benumbing the sensibilities to such a degree that it is impossible for them to discern sacred things.” Testimonies, vol. 1, 530, 531.

Thursday

5 THAT WE MAY KNOW HIM

Whom else did Christ include in His mediatory prayer? John 17:20.

Note: “All that Christ was to the disciples, He desires to be to His children today; for in that last prayer, with the little band of disciples gathered about Him, He said, ‘Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word’ (John 17:20).” Steps to Christ, 75.

What assurance do we have that Christ’s watchcare, through the Holy Spirit, is over us today? John 14:16.

Note: “The words spoken to the disciples are spoken also to us. The Comforter is ours as well as theirs. The Spirit furnishes the strength that sustains striving, wrestling souls in every emergency, amidst the hatred of the world, and the realization of their own failures and mistakes. In sorrow and affliction, when the outlook seems dark and the future perplexing, and we feel helpless and alone—these are the times when, in answer to the prayer of faith, the Holy Spirit brings comfort to the heart.” The Acts of the Apostles, 51.

What desire did Jesus manifest in behalf of His people at the end of His prayer? John 17:24.

Friday

PERSONAL REVIEW QUESTIONS

1      What can I do to promote unity among the believers?
2      How can I benefit from Christ’s prayer in behalf of His disciples?
3      In what ways can I develop a deeper knowledge of the name of God?
4      Explain Christ’s saying: “They are not of this world.”
5      What can I do to glorify Christ more fully?

Lesson 2 – How to Pray

Introduction: More Important than any rule or law is our love relationship with Jesus Christ, which is developed through spending time in Bible study, prayer, and witnessing. When we study the Bible, God speaks to us. When we pray, we speak to Him. And when we witness, we speak to others about Him. In this lesson we will discover the secrets of prayer and how we can enjoy this privilege.

1. Prayer is talking to God from the heart as to a friend. How do we know that God will always answer our prayers in the best way? Rom. 8:32 [The Further-study verses are Psalms 102:17; 147:3-6]

2. How should we pray in these solemn times? 1 Peter 4:7 [Luke 21:34-36]

3. What did the disciples want Jesus to teach them? Luke 11:1. In response, what did Jesus say should be included in our prayers, Luke 11:2-4. And finally, what principle did Jesus give for obtaining answers to prayer? Luke 11:5-9. [Note: In Luke 11:2-4, Jesus was not giving a formal prayer to recite but was answering the disciples’ request, “Teach us to pray.” Here He taught us what type of things to pray about and how we should persist in prayer. Matt. 6:9-13; 7:7-11; Luke 18:1-7; 1 Thess. 5:17]

4. In Luke 11:2, above, Jesus taught us to pray to the Father. In whose name, or by whose authority, should we address the Father? John 15:16 [Note: We pray in Jesus’ name because He is our mediator and Savior. Through His merits we gain access to the very throne of the universe. John 14:12-15; 16:23, 24; 1 Tim. 2:5]

5. When especially should we pray? Ps. 5:3 [Mark 1:35; Ps. 55:16, 17].

6. What kind of prayers should these morning prayers be? Matt. 6:5-8 [Ans: Personal, private prayers rather than formal, “prayer book” prayers. Matt. 23:14]

7. Besides our private prayers, is there also a place for public prayer? Matt. 18:19, 20 [Acts 1:14; 2:1]

8. What attitude toward God should we exhibit in our prayers? Ps. 95:6, 7 [Ans: Reverence such as is shown by kneeling in awe and humility when possible. Isaiah 45:23; Phil 2:9, 10; Daniel 6:10; 2 Chron. 6:13; Ps. 141:1, 2]

9. On what specific occasions did Jesus and the apostles pray? Acts 27:35 [Ans: At meal times. Luke 24:30] Thus far we have noted four things that will make our prayers effective. We might call these conditions, or principles, of prayer. The four principles we have noted are: (1) being persistent, (2) praying with Jesus’ authority, (3) being personal, and (4) having reverence. Now let us look at five more principles of prayer. See if you can remember all nine when we have completed the lesson.

10. What is a fifth condition? Ps. 37:5 [Ans: We must trust God. James 1:5-7; Heb. 11:6; Mark 11:24]

11. What is a sixth condition? 1 John 5:14 [Ans: We must want God’s will to be done. This is a matter of faith. If we really believe God’s way is best, we will want His will to be done. Matt. 26:39; James 4:3; Rom. 8:26-28]

12. What is a seventh condition? Prov. 28:9 [Ans: We must listen to God and obey Him. Why should we expect God to hear us, if we will not hear Him? And why should we expect Him to do what we ask, if we will not do what He asks? 1 John 3:22; Luke 6:46; John 14:12-15]

13. What is an eighth condition? Phil. 4:6 [Ans: We should praise God and be thankful for His goodness. Col. 4:2; Ps. 34:1]

14. What is a ninth condition? Mark 11:25, 26 [Ans: We should be willing to forgive others as we expect God to forgive us. Matt. 6:14, 15; 18:21-35]

Commitment: Will you plan to become better acquainted with Jesus by setting apart some time every morning to talk with Him in personal, private prayer?

STEP 1 (Lessons 1-10): Believing in Christ, Our Savior and Coming King

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