#8: FAITH AND PRAYER
(from the teaching of Jesus)

Note:  Let me encourage you to read the following paraphrased Scriptures slowly and meditate on what the Word of God teaches concerning faith and prayer.

Though your faith begin small and seem insignificant,
     it can grow and assert great influence.
(Luke 17:6, Matthew 13:31-32, II Thessalonians 1:3)
 
Anyone can receive the faith of God,
     for faith comes by hearing God's Word.
(Mark 11:22, Romans 10:17)
 
When a believer speaks to a spiritual mountain of opposition,
     saying: “Be removed and cast into the sea!”
    and does not doubt, but is sure what he says will happen,
    his desire will be granted.
(Mark 11:23)
 
Everything that you ask for in prayer,
     believing you receive it when you pray, you will have.
(Mark 11:24, Matthew 21:22)
 
An unmerciful person makes his prayers ineffective
      by not forgiving.­
But the wise forgive those who have trespassed against them,
     so their Heavenly Father may forgive them.
(Mark 11:24-26)­
 
United prayers of love and agreement produce a beautiful
     spiritual symphony to the Lord and bring answers to prayer.
(Matthew 18:19-20)
 
As a father enjoying giving good gifts to his children,
    your Heavenly Father enjoys giving good gifts to you.
(Matthew 7:7-11)
 
Because a widow persisted in coming to him,
     a dishonest judge rendered for her
     a just and favorable decision.
How much more shall our perfectly just God
    secure the blood-bought covenant rights of His children
    who come to Him in faith?
(Luke 18:1-8)
 
One who doubts becomes overwhelmed
     by negative circumstances.
But faith changes what is seen
    and makes it conform to God’s will.
(Matthew 14:28-31, Romans 4:18-21)
 
To preserve his honor, a neighbor arises
     at midnight to grant the requests of a friend,
     though it inconveniences him.
How much more will your loving Heavenly Father
     grant your requests?
(Luke 11:5-13)
 
Boldly persist in prayer and receive!
     For God hears and answers the prayer of faith.
(Luke 11:5-13, Matthew 7:7-11)
 
Note: this devotional is from the new book, Proverbs of Faith, Hope, and Love, volume 1, Day 25, pages 65-66.