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 This week I have been reading through a book about Rees Howells

on intercessory prayer...
a difficult and life changing journey
of walking with God
and how He answered prayer.
(If you would like to read it - get a free copy here)
I was pondering 
why is it 
was it so hard...?
Why can't I just ask
and 
have faith
and
get it...?
Hmm....
a few obvious answers...
- My heart is easily swayed by my old nature...
- God's supply is for my needs AND his kingdom...
so I might not be lined up with Him on my requests....
this morning Paul give me a bit of insight
to the question...
Rom 5:1  Therefore, 
since we have been justified through faith, 
we have peace with God 
through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2  through whom 
we have gained access by faith 
into this grace 
in which we now stand. 
And we rejoice 
in the hope of 
the glory of God.
3  Not only so, 
but we also rejoice in our sufferings, 
because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
4  perseverance, character; 
and character, hope.
5  And hope does not disappoint us, 
because God has poured out his love 
into our hearts 
by the Holy Spirit, 
whom he has given us.
Peace with God
Access to the throne room
but still 
in this world of suffering.
That 
forges a ever strengthening bond
of reliance on the Holy Spirit's ministry
of love in my heart...
I am God's Child...
but not mature...
not 'there' yet...
and travail in prayer
not getting answers like a genie in the bottle
is a part of the course I have signed up for.
Lord,
Thanks for helping me
understand that
I have lots to learn
and 
prayer,
talking to You
and asking from You
is a part of that.
Thanks that You are 
committed to teaching me
and being ever closer
and Your Glory
ever nearer
in that process...
That You even turn
suffering 
into maturity
and
opportunity to receive more from You!
Cool! :)
Yeah! :)
PJ