Pinewood Church PCA

In our faith journey, we are often challenged to assess the depth and quality of our love for others and for God. Drawing inspiration from the Apostle Paul's heartfelt prayer, we are reminded that our ability to love well is not just a recommendation but a divine imperative that requires prayerful dependence on God. This spiritual insight aligns with the greatest commandments: to love God with our whole being and to love our neighbors as ourselves. Unlike the fleeting and conditional love depicted by society, biblical love is complete and unwavering, rooted in the eternal and unchanging nature of God. Emotion plays a significant role in expressing love, yet Scripture teaches us that love is not driven solely by feelings but is a conscious decision to act in others' best interests. We are encouraged to seek a love that is 'supplied and strengthened by God,' fully realizing our human limitations and our need for divine empowerment. This love, when infused with knowledge and discernment, allows us to navigate the complexities of relationships, ensuring that our interactions reflect the truth and spirit of the Gospel. Ultimately, as we cultivate a love that bears excellent fruit, we become examples of Christlike righteousness, radiating His beauty and glory in our everyday lives.

In this powerful exploration of 1 Kings 18, we're reminded of the transformative power of prayer and the consuming fire of God's love. The story of Elijah's showdown with the prophets of Baal teaches us that true prayer isn't about manipulating God to do our will, but aligning ourselves with His divine purpose. We're challenged to examine our own prayers: are they focused on our glory or God's? The imagery of fire consuming the sacrifice parallels Christ's sacrifice for us, showing that we're safe where God's judgment has already fallen. This message urges us to let God's fire burn away our idols and draw us back to Him, emphasizing that revival isn't about emotional experiences, but hearts humbled before the Lord.

What do we truly desire from God? This powerful message challenges us to examine our hearts and priorities through the lens of Solomon's prayer. When given a blank check by God, Solomon asks not for wealth or power, but for a 'listening heart' to lead God's people wisely. This request pleased God immensely, reminding us that seeking God's will above our own desires is the path to true wisdom and blessing. The Hebrew concept of 'lev shomiyah' - a heart that listens and obeys - invites us to move beyond passive hearing to active engagement with God's word. As we reflect on our own prayers, are we asking for what we want, or for what God wants for us? This message encourages us to align our hearts with God's purposes, trusting that when we seek His kingdom first, He will provide for our needs in ways beyond our imagination.

Prayer For The Week #7 - 1 Chronicles 29:1-20"Father, everything I have is from You. Help me to live each day generously, giving my time, my gifts, and my resources freely and joyously. Make generosity my habit, not just an event. Let my life be a daily offering, devoted to Your glory and purposes. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Prayer For The Week #6 - Psalm 51"Father, we come to you not with excuses, but with empty hands and contrite hearts. We have sinned, and we need cleansing, not just from our actions, but from our inner desires. Create in us clean hearts, O God. Restore to us the joy of Your salvation. And like David, use our story to help others find their way back to you. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

Prayer For The Week #5 - 1 Samuel 1:10-20"Father of Compassion, You are the Lord of Hosts and the God who sees. Teach me to pour out my soul like Hannah, with honesty, humility and hope. Give me the courage to pray when I feel misunderstood and the faith to walk in peace before answers come. Use my brokenness as part of Your redemptive story. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Prayer For The Week #4 - Exodus 32:11-14“Lord, You are full of mercy and faithful to Your promises. Teach us to pray boldly for others, to stand in the gap like Moses, and to trust that You hear us for Christ's sake. Make us intercessors who delight in showing mercy, just as You delight in showing mercy to us. In Jesus' name, Amen."

Prayer For The Week #3 - Genesis 32:22-32Heavenly Father, I wrestle with fears, doubts, and struggles that I don't always understand. Like Jacob, I have tried to rely on my own strength, but I need You. Teach me to persist in prayer, not just for answers, but to know You more. If I must struggle, let it draw me closer to You. If I must be broken, let it be so You can heal me. I trust Your purposes even when I don't see them. Strengthen and transform me, and make me wholly Yours. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Prayer For The Week #2 - Genesis 18:16-33"Heavenly Father, You are just and merciful. Like Abraham, we come before You, not because we deserve to, but because You invite us. Teach us to intercede for others with boldness and humility. May we trust that even when the answer seems delayed, You are working for good. Help us not to grow weary in prayer but to keep coming to You, knowing You delight in showing mercy. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

Prayer For The Week #1 - Genesis 4:26“Heavenly Father, just as the first people called on Your name, I come to You today. I acknowledge that I am weak, but You are strong. Teach me to depend on You, to call on You first, not just in times of trouble, but in every moment of my life. Draw me closer to You through prayer, and help me to lead others to do the same. In Jesus' name, Amen."