Podcasts about covenant prayer

Morning Services- "Covenant" How are we to understand and use John Wesley's Covenant Prayer? Scripture: Jeremiah 31:31-34

What happens when your faith feels pulled in multiple directions? The Israelites faced this exact dilemma as they wavered between God and Baal. Through Elijah's dramatic showdown with false prophets on Mount Carmel, God powerfully demonstrated His supremacy in enemy territory, just as Jesus would later do. Listen now and be inspired to recognize God's presence in every square inch of your life, knowing He works through both extraordinary prophets and ordinary believers like Obadiah to bring you back to Himself.

Today is day 272 and we are studying The First Commandment. 272. How are you tempted to worship other gods? I am tempted to trust in myself, my pleasures, my possessions, my relationships, and my success, wrongly believing that they will bring me happiness, security, and meaning. I am also tempted to believe superstitions and false religious claims, and to reject God's call to worship him alone. (1 Kings 11:1–8; Psalm 73:1–17; Matthew 26:14–16; 27:1–5; Romans 1:18–32) We will conclude today by praying Prayer 93. A Covenant Prayer found on page 674 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to ⁠anglicanchurch.net/catechism⁠. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Sermon Title: Witnesses of Christ: Walking the Wesleyan WaySubtitle: Embracing Wisdom, Wonder, and Service for the WorldIntroductionKey Scripture: Acts 1:8 – "You will be my witnesses..."Thesis: As United Methodists, we are called to embody Christ's love in the world, through wisdom, wonder, and outward-focused service.Series Context: Third part of a series on Wesleyan discipleship, exploring Paul Chilcote and Steve Harper's Upward.I. The Upward Way of Wesleyan DiscipleshipReview of Series:The Way of Wisdom: Embodying Jesus' compassion, kindness, and love.The Way of Wonder: Recognizing God's love creates a more wonder-filled world.Today's Focus: The Way of Christ in and for the world—our outward mission as witnesses.II. Called to Be WitnessesJesus' Commission (Acts 1:8):To be witnesses in Jerusalem (our immediate community), Judea and Samaria (broader regions), and to the ends of the earth.Witnesses of Christ's love, not just in words, but in actions.Wesleyan Perspective:Methodism is outward-focused—caring for others, not inwardly centered on the church institution.The Church's mission: healing and serving the world, partnering with God's purposes.III. Wesleyan DNA: Service to the WorldJohn Wesley's Vision:Methodism was raised to fill the world with God's love, not for securing personal salvation or church growth.The early Methodist movement emphasized serving the poor, healing the sick, educating the unlearned, and bringing Christ's presence to everyday life.The Church's Purpose:To demonstrate God's love through acts of justice, mercy, and peace.Focused outward, not just on internal worship or community gatherings.IV. The Mission of the ChurchFollowing Jesus' Example:Jesus' mission (Luke 4:18-19): Bringing good news to the poor, releasing the captives, and healing the oppressed.Our life as a church must align with this mission—worship and study are the starting point, not the end goal.Self-Examination:Are we, as Davidson UMC, bringing good news, freedom, and healing to those in need? If not, we must reevaluate our actions.V. Authentic DiscipleshipJohn Wesley's Challenge:Discipleship isn't about numbers; it's about helping people love God and neighbor more deeply.Let love, kindness, and compassion define our actions, both within the church and beyond.Practical Service:Embody the image of a church community serving with a "towel and basin" like Jesus, caring for others with humility.VI. Covenant Prayer: Commitment to the MissionPrayer Reflection: Wesley's Covenant Prayer is a commitment to being used by God for His purposes—whether in comfort or sacrifice.Invitation: Pray for the strength and willingness to be Christ's hands and feet in the world.ConclusionCall to Action: We are called not to focus inwardly, but to serve as Christ's witnesses in all areas of life.Key Question: How will we, as a church, live out the mission to be Christ in and for the world?Closing Prayer:Wesley's Covenant Prayer.

Sometimes we begin our journey under clear skies and dry roads, only to be met unexpectedly by a looming grey mass that quickly brings wind, rain, and poor visibility. It's not much fun! Although driving through a storm can seem never-ending, keep pushing forward. The clouds will eventually clear, and the sun will shine again as you approach your destination!I speak of course, of covenant prayer! Taking on a fresh commitment to seek the Lord is often invigorating! Then the troubles come and the answers we expect do not.How can we overcome these times of trouble and disillusionment?In this final episode of our summer series, I will be providing encouragement for such moments!Contact and resources:Substack: https://joniscott11@substack.comInstagram Bio with Links: https://www.instagram.com/joni_scott.prayer/Facebook Page: Faith and FastingLinks to all the stuff:https://joniscott.my.canva.site/

Today is day 223 and we are on the section of the Doxology and the Amen. 223. Why do you end the Lord's Prayer by saying “Amen”? By saying “Amen,” which means “so be it,” I declare my agreement with the prayer. I unite with the faithful, and together we pray as Jesus commanded, believing that our petitions please the Father, and trusting that he will hear and answer us. (Nehemiah 8:1–3, 5–6; Psalms 72:18–19; 106:48; 2 Corinthians 1:19–20; Revelation 19:1–4) We will conclude today with Prayer 93. A Covenant Prayer found on page 673 in the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to ⁠anglicanchurch.net/catechism⁠. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

In which Jesus came alongside and shared His own thoughts on Covenant prayer! Summer is full of activities and family events. My little grandgirl recently had heart surgery and the Lord Graciously brought her through with flying colors. I completed my mission of heading up the City Fest Kids tent with the help of many tireless volunteers. We need each other, don't we?Tell me about your summer and what you are covenanting in prayer. Contact info is below!Contact and resources:Substack: https://joniscott11@substack.comEmail: Joni@stormingthegates.netInstagram Bio with Links: https://www.instagram.com/joni_scott.prayer/Facebook Page: Faith and FastingLinks to all the stuff:https://joniscott.my.canva.site/

In this Prayer Session, Benjamin Suulola led us into the Presence of God for Encounter with Prevailing Power of God.

In this summer series, we will be discussing Covenant Prayer. That is when we feel called by God to seek Him in a certain way, ,for a certain period of time, in order to gain hold of a promise or an answer to a prayer. Being steadfast and immovable in such a call to prayer can be incredibly powerful, but can also stir up spiritual warfare! Begin now by laying the foundation of such prayer.Contact and resources:Substack: https://joniscott11@substack.comEmail: Joni@stormingthegates.netInstagram Bio with Links: https://www.instagram.com/joni_scott.prayer/Facebook Page: Faith and FastingLinks to all the stuff:https://joniscott.my.canva.site/

Have you been praying and praying, maybe briefly seeing things for which you are praying beginning to change, before sliding back to where they began?No one can force God's hand, but throughout scripture, we see Jesus moved to action by a certain characteristic. Can you think of what that is?Faith.Most of the time, this faith was demonstrated by the way people persevered, calling on Jesus despite obstacles, persevering against the odds. We can grow in, and demonstrate, that same faith when we battle through the difficulties of life and persevere in prayer.In this episode of Storming the Gates, we will be pressing Pause on the book of Jeremiah to uncover a meaningful way to pray. Contact and resources:Substack: https://joniscott11@substack.comEmail: Joni@stormingthegates.netInstagram Bio with Links: https://www.instagram.com/joni_scott.prayer/Facebook Page: Faith and FastingLinks to all the stuff:https://joniscott.my.canva.site/

Psalm 5 is the first example of an imprecatory Psalm, where David prays that God would deal with his enemies: "Pronounce them guilty, O God! Let them fall by their own counsels; cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have rebelled against You" (v10). The challenge we face is how we can harmonise this with Jesus' teaching that we should love, bless and show mercy to our enemies (Luke 6:27-36)? It helps to understand the difference between temporal judgments in this life and a man's final eternal judgment which happens immediately after death, when his eternal destiny is forever sealed. It is surely against the teaching of Jesus for us to desire and pray that anyone would die and go to Hell. It is probable that the imprecatory verses were the basis for the teaching of the Pharisees: "You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy" (Matthew 5:43). But Jesus rejected this interpretation saying: "But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (v44). Thus these imprecatory verses must be interpreted in this light - as expressions of love, not hate for our enemies. In Psalm 5:4-6, God reveals to David that the wicked are under God's wrath and if they will not repent, they will be condemned and cast out of God's Presence forever. One way to read v10, allowed for by the Hebrew, is as a prophetic declaration affirming this final judgment, in agreement with His revelation in v4-6: "You will pronounce them guilty, O God! They will fall by their own counsels; you will cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have rebelled against You." In this way of reading it, the Psalmist is also adding His agreement with God's holy justice in executing Him final judgment on them, at the time of His choosing. God's declaration of eternal judgment is His warning to sinners that they must repent before it is too late. However, there seems to be more going on here than a declaration and all the translations interpret v10 also as a prayer, in which case, the interpretation that best fits with the rest of Scripture is that it is a prayer for God to intervene in their life (in a temporal judgment), in such a way as to lead them to repentance, so that they do not face the horror of eternal condemnation and punishment. This is confirmed by the phrase: "Let them fall by their own counsels", which points to their evil plans in this life coming to nothing and even rebounding on them, for if they prosper in their evil-doing, they are less likely to repent. In other words, a loving prayer for the wicked is: "Lord, do whatever it takes in their life to bring them to repentance. Don't let them prosper in their evil-ways, but bring them to the end of themselves, so that they realise that they need to repent and turn to you in faith and so be blessed, rather than going to Hell." David's basis for praying v10 is: "for they have rebelled against You", which shows that he is not praying out of personal malice, but rather a concern for God's glory and a realisation that their rebellious state makes them candidates for eternal condemnation. In Psalm 5:9, David again describes the wicked nature of his enemies, including the phrase: "Their throat is an open tomb; they flatter with their tongue" which Paul quotes in Romans 3:13, in his general description of the sinfulness of all mankind (v9-20), where he establishes that all mankind is sinful and guilty before God and so heading for eternal condemnation. But God offers His saving mercies to those who will turn to Him, trust in Him and submit to Him (Psalm 5:2,7), and so David completes the Psalm by describing the blessedness of those who put their trust in God. They rejoice because they are under God's covering (atonement): "But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; let them ever shout for joy, because You defend (cover) them" (v11). They are protected from God's wrath and from their enemies. As well as trusting God, having received His love, they also love Him: "Let those also who love Your Name (revealed nature) be joyful in You" (v12a). They have been forgiven and made righteous by faith, and so are under God's blessing, grace and favour which covers them like a large shield: "For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favour You will surround him as with a shield" (v12b).

Psalm 5 is the first example of an imprecatory Psalm, where David prays that God would deal with his enemies: "Pronounce them guilty, O God! Let them fall by their own counsels; cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have rebelled against You" (v10). The challenge we face is how we can harmonise this with Jesus' teaching that we should love, bless and show mercy to our enemies (Luke 6:27-36)? It helps to understand the difference between temporal judgments in this life and a man's final eternal judgment which happens immediately after death, when his eternal destiny is forever sealed. It is surely against the teaching of Jesus for us to desire and pray that anyone would die and go to Hell. It is probable that the imprecatory verses were the basis for the teaching of the Pharisees: "You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy" (Matthew 5:43). But Jesus rejected this interpretation saying: "But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (v44). Thus these imprecatory verses must be interpreted in this light - as expressions of love, not hate for our enemies. In Psalm 5:4-6, God reveals to David that the wicked are under God's wrath and if they will not repent, they will be condemned and cast out of God's Presence forever. One way to read v10, allowed for by the Hebrew, is as a prophetic declaration affirming this final judgment, in agreement with His revelation in v4-6: "You will pronounce them guilty, O God! They will fall by their own counsels; you will cast them out in the multitude of their transgressions, for they have rebelled against You." In this way of reading it, the Psalmist is also adding His agreement with God's holy justice in executing Him final judgment on them, at the time of His choosing. God's declaration of eternal judgment is His warning to sinners that they must repent before it is too late. However, there seems to be more going on here than a declaration and all the translations interpret v10 also as a prayer, in which case, the interpretation that best fits with the rest of Scripture is that it is a prayer for God to intervene in their life (in a temporal judgment), in such a way as to lead them to repentance, so that they do not face the horror of eternal condemnation and punishment. This is confirmed by the phrase: "Let them fall by their own counsels", which points to their evil plans in this life coming to nothing and even rebounding on them, for if they prosper in their evil-doing, they are less likely to repent. In other words, a loving prayer for the wicked is: "Lord, do whatever it takes in their life to bring them to repentance. Don't let them prosper in their evil-ways, but bring them to the end of themselves, so that they realise that they need to repent and turn to you in faith and so be blessed, rather than going to Hell." David's basis for praying v10 is: "for they have rebelled against You", which shows that he is not praying out of personal malice, but rather a concern for God's glory and a realisation that their rebellious state makes them candidates for eternal condemnation. In Psalm 5:9, David again describes the wicked nature of his enemies, including the phrase: "Their throat is an open tomb; they flatter with their tongue" which Paul quotes in Romans 3:13, in his general description of the sinfulness of all mankind (v9-20), where he establishes that all mankind is sinful and guilty before God and so heading for eternal condemnation. But God offers His saving mercies to those who will turn to Him, trust in Him and submit to Him (Psalm 5:2,7), and so David completes the Psalm by describing the blessedness of those who put their trust in God. They rejoice because they are under God's covering (atonement): "But let all those rejoice who put their trust in You; let them ever shout for joy, because You defend (cover) them" (v11). They are protected from God's wrath and from their enemies. As well as trusting God, having received His love, they also love Him: "Let those also who love Your Name (revealed nature) be joyful in You" (v12a). They have been forgiven and made righteous by faith, and so are under God's blessing, grace and favour which covers them like a large shield: "For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favour You will surround him as with a shield" (v12b).

Psalm 5 shows us how David came to God in the morning (v3) to receive the wisdom, strength and protection he needed for the day, especially because there are many enemies conspiring against him - the word for enemies in v8 means those 'who lie in wait.' The setting might be during the time that many were conspiring against him to remove him as king and replace him by Absalom. Psalm 5 provides a model for purposeful prayer (v1-3,7-8,10-12), as well as giving a clear contrast between the righteous under God's covenant love (v1-3, 7-8, 11-12) and the wicked under God's wrath (v4-6, 9-10). David understands that prayer is the expression of the inner thoughts (meditation) of his heart, so he opens his heart to God and invites Him to look into his heart to see his genuine commitment to God and desire to see his prayer answered (v1). David is purposeful in coming to the Lord and focusing on Him: "to You I will pray." In particular, he addresses the Lord as "my King and my God" - focusing on both His awesome majesty (transcendence) and gracious presence (covenant nearness). Moreover, he presents his prayer with urgency, determined that God will hear him (v2). In v3, he emphasises twice his commitment to come to God in the morning, which confirms the importance of morning devotions, to dedicate the day to God and to receive His grace for the day (Mark 1:35, Lam 3:22-23). The he describes what we should do before and after our prayer to God. Before we make our petitions, we should 'direct it to God.' the word 'direct' literally means 'to prepare' and 'to set in order' (Psalm 23:5). It means to arrange our prayer before God, to plead our case (a lawyer prepares his arguments before presenting them to the judge). We should first know the basis of our petitions from God's revelation of Himself in Scripture and on His covenant-promises to us, and then present our case to God. Doing this will increase our faith that we are praying according to God's will and that He will hear us (1John 5:11-12). We see many examples of this in Scripture. After praying, we should 'look up' to God with expectation, to watch to see what God will say or do (Habakkuk 2:1). As he draws closer to God, he becomes more aware of God's holiness and man's sinfulness. David sees God's wrath upon all sinners and His unrelenting opposition to them, and he sees their ultimate end in final judgment if they do not repent (v4-6, Psalm 73:17-18). By contrast, in v7, David, as an example of a righteous believer in covenant with God (see also v11-12), is one who comes into God's Presence (House), (1) trusting in God's abundant covenant love (mercy - chesed), not in his own righteousness, and (2) worshipping Him in reverential fear (submitting himself to God's authority), looking up to God in His holy Temple (in Heaven - Psalm 2:4,6, 3:4), just as we are to pray: "our Father who art in Heaven." David exemplifies a saving faith of trust in God as his Saviour and submission to God as his Lord. Having first come into His Presence in praise and worship (v7), David is now in position to ask for and receive God's leadership and guidance for his life: "Lead me, O Lord, in Your (way of) righteousness" (v8a). This was especially necessary "because of my enemies" (v8b) who were plotting against him. Likewise, satan's kingdom is setting traps for us to fall into, so every morning we need to pray: "Lord, do not lead me into temptation (the traps of the enemy), but deliver me from evil." David knew only God could protect him from the traps of sin, satan and his enemies. He also asks God to give him wisdom by revealing to him the way that he should walk, and that He would remove all hinderances, so that he might make speedy progress in fulfilling God's will: "Make Your way straight before my face" (v8c).

Psalm 5 shows us how David came to God in the morning (v3) to receive the wisdom, strength and protection he needed for the day, especially because there are many enemies conspiring against him - the word for enemies in v8 means those 'who lie in wait.' The setting might be during the time that many were conspiring against him to remove him as king and replace him by Absalom. Psalm 5 provides a model for purposeful prayer (v1-3,7-8,10-12), as well as giving a clear contrast between the righteous under God's covenant love (v1-3, 7-8, 11-12) and the wicked under God's wrath (v4-6, 9-10). David understands that prayer is the expression of the inner thoughts (meditation) of his heart, so he opens his heart to God and invites Him to look into his heart to see his genuine commitment to God and desire to see his prayer answered (v1). David is purposeful in coming to the Lord and focusing on Him: "to You I will pray." In particular, he addresses the Lord as "my King and my God" - focusing on both His awesome majesty (transcendence) and gracious presence (covenant nearness). Moreover, he presents his prayer with urgency, determined that God will hear him (v2). In v3, he emphasises twice his commitment to come to God in the morning, which confirms the importance of morning devotions, to dedicate the day to God and to receive His grace for the day (Mark 1:35, Lam 3:22-23). The he describes what we should do before and after our prayer to God. Before we make our petitions, we should 'direct it to God.' the word 'direct' literally means 'to prepare' and 'to set in order' (Psalm 23:5). It means to arrange our prayer before God, to plead our case (a lawyer prepares his arguments before presenting them to the judge). We should first know the basis of our petitions from God's revelation of Himself in Scripture and on His covenant-promises to us, and then present our case to God. Doing this will increase our faith that we are praying according to God's will and that He will hear us (1John 5:11-12). We see many examples of this in Scripture. After praying, we should 'look up' to God with expectation, to watch to see what God will say or do (Habakkuk 2:1). As he draws closer to God, he becomes more aware of God's holiness and man's sinfulness. David sees God's wrath upon all sinners and His unrelenting opposition to them, and he sees their ultimate end in final judgment if they do not repent (v4-6, Psalm 73:17-18). By contrast, in v7, David, as an example of a righteous believer in covenant with God (see also v11-12), is one who comes into God's Presence (House), (1) trusting in God's abundant covenant love (mercy - chesed), not in his own righteousness, and (2) worshipping Him in reverential fear (submitting himself to God's authority), looking up to God in His holy Temple (in Heaven - Psalm 2:4,6, 3:4), just as we are to pray: "our Father who art in Heaven." David exemplifies a saving faith of trust in God as his Saviour and submission to God as his Lord. Having first come into His Presence in praise and worship (v7), David is now in position to ask for and receive God's leadership and guidance for his life: "Lead me, O Lord, in Your (way of) righteousness" (v8a). This was especially necessary "because of my enemies" (v8b) who were plotting against him. Likewise, satan's kingdom is setting traps for us to fall into, so every morning we need to pray: "Lord, do not lead me into temptation (the traps of the enemy), but deliver me from evil." David knew only God could protect him from the traps of sin, satan and his enemies. He also asks God to give him wisdom by revealing to him the way that he should walk, and that He would remove all hinderances, so that he might make speedy progress in fulfilling God's will: "Make Your way straight before my face" (v8c).

Last time in Psalm 4, we saw how David prayed for victory over the army of Absalom (2Samuel 18), putting his faith in His covenant-keeping God (v1), bringing him full assurance, resulting in confident declarations of faith flowing out of his prayer (v2-5). Next he describes the inner peace and happiness that he possessed through his fellowship with God in prayer (v6-8). He points out that most people are primarily seeking for things (outward prosperity), such as his opponents who were believing in Absalom's promises of a better life under his rule (v6a). Seeking things first before God and His righteousness (which is covetousness) is futile, as things can never ultimately satisfy us. But David understood that God is the source of all goodness, and that the key to inner happiness and satisfaction is face to face fellowship with God, who shines the light of His love, joy and peace into our hearts: "Lord, lift up the light of Your Countenance upon us" (v6b, Numbers 6:24-26). Likewise, Jesus said if we FIRST seek the Lord and His Presence (Spirit of Righteousness) in our hearts, then all these outward things (blessings) will also be added to us (Matthew 6:33). We must choose to love and serve God above mammon (Matthew 6:24). The test is, do we put God's Presents before His presents? - this was the test faced by Moses in the wilderness. David testified that through His prayer and fellowship with God, He imparted gladness in his heart, so that even when going through hard times, he possessed a greater inner happiness from God's Presence, than all the carnal people had, even at the time of their greatest prosperity (v7). the joy of the Lord does not depend on circumstances, but comes from God's Spirit within our hearts (Romans 14:17). Through spending time in God's Presence on the eve of the great battle, David prayed through to a place of inner peace, having put his trust in the Lord for his protection, so that he knows he will have a deep, peaceful and undisturbed sleep: "I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety" (v8). In Psalm 3:5 tells us he woke up the next morning testifying: "I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustained me."

Psalms 3 and 4 connect together, for both took place just before the battle with Absalom's army (2Samuel 18). Whereas Psalm 4 is set in the evening before the battle, Psalm 3 is set on the morning of the battle, so when David declares in Psalm 3:4 that he has prayed and God has heard him, this refers to his prayer in 4:1. Likewise his belief he would sleep well in 4:8 was fulfilled (3:5). Compare also 3:2-3 and 4:2. David reveals the basis for his approach to God was that his righteousness was from God (not himself): "Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness!" (v1a). This is imputed righteousness through faith, and well as the fact that he knew he stood for a righteous cause (he was praying the will of God). Having righteousness before God gives us confidence that God will hear our prayer (1John 5:14, Proverbs 15:29, 1Peter 3:12, Psalm 34:15). He prays that God would be gracious to him and relieve him in his distress; changing his situation from being hard-pressed on all sides to an enlarged place of freedom (v1b). Based on his assurance that God has heard his prayer in v1, David speaks boldly to his enemies, declaring that their rebellion against him, which was based on following lies (that he was no longer God's anointed) and empty promises, is about to come to an end (v2). He also declares that he is still beloved and chosen by God, set apart to Him by covenant as God's anointed king, and this gives him confidence that God hears his prayers and will give him the victory (v3). We then discuss different applications of David's advice: "Be angry and do not sin" (v4a), which Paul applies in Ephesians 4:26-27. In order to overcome the flesh and not sin, we need to mediate in God's Word (v4b, Psalm 1) and bring our flesh into quietness, so that we can hear God's voice to us (v4b). Then we need to 'offer the sacrifices of righteousness', which means doing right actions in obedience to God's word to us, and doing what God tells us to do in the situation, trusting in Him that He knows best (v5, Proverbs 3:5-6), even though this may well mean denying the natural inclinations of our flesh and human reasoning.

Last time in Psalm 4, we saw how David prayed for victory over the army of Absalom (2Samuel 18), putting his faith in His covenant-keeping God (v1), bringing him full assurance, resulting in confident declarations of faith flowing out of his prayer (v2-5). Next he describes the inner peace and happiness that he possessed through his fellowship with God in prayer (v6-8). He points out that most people are primarily seeking for things (outward prosperity), such as his opponents who were believing in Absalom's promises of a better life under his rule (v6a). Seeking things first before God and His righteousness (which is covetousness) is futile, as things can never ultimately satisfy us. But David understood that God is the source of all goodness, and that the key to inner happiness and satisfaction is face to face fellowship with God, who shines the light of His love, joy and peace into our hearts: "Lord, lift up the light of Your Countenance upon us" (v6b, Numbers 6:24-26). Likewise, Jesus said if we FIRST seek the Lord and His Presence (Spirit of Righteousness) in our hearts, then all these outward things (blessings) will also be added to us (Matthew 6:33). We must choose to love and serve God above mammon (Matthew 6:24). The test is, do we put God's Presents before His presents? - this was the test faced by Moses in the wilderness. David testified that through His prayer and fellowship with God, He imparted gladness in his heart, so that even when going through hard times, he possessed a greater inner happiness from God's Presence, than all the carnal people had, even at the time of their greatest prosperity (v7). the joy of the Lord does not depend on circumstances, but comes from God's Spirit within our hearts (Romans 14:17). Through spending time in God's Presence on the eve of the great battle, David prayed through to a place of inner peace, having put his trust in the Lord for his protection, so that he knows he will have a deep, peaceful and undisturbed sleep: "I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety" (v8). In Psalm 3:5 tells us he woke up the next morning testifying: "I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustained me."

Psalms 3 and 4 connect together, for both took place just before the battle with Absalom's army (2Samuel 18). Whereas Psalm 4 is set in the evening before the battle, Psalm 3 is set on the morning of the battle, so when David declares in Psalm 3:4 that he has prayed and God has heard him, this refers to his prayer in 4:1. Likewise his belief he would sleep well in 4:8 was fulfilled (3:5). Compare also 3:2-3 and 4:2. David reveals the basis for his approach to God was that his righteousness was from God (not himself): "Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness!" (v1a). This is imputed righteousness through faith, and well as the fact that he knew he stood for a righteous cause (he was praying the will of God). Having righteousness before God gives us confidence that God will hear our prayer (1John 5:14, Proverbs 15:29, 1Peter 3:12, Psalm 34:15). He prays that God would be gracious to him and relieve him in his distress; changing his situation from being hard-pressed on all sides to an enlarged place of freedom (v1b). Based on his assurance that God has heard his prayer in v1, David speaks boldly to his enemies, declaring that their rebellion against him, which was based on following lies (that he was no longer God's anointed) and empty promises, is about to come to an end (v2). He also declares that he is still beloved and chosen by God, set apart to Him by covenant as God's anointed king, and this gives him confidence that God hears his prayers and will give him the victory (v3). We then discuss different applications of David's advice: "Be angry and do not sin" (v4a), which Paul applies in Ephesians 4:26-27. In order to overcome the flesh and not sin, we need to mediate in God's Word (v4b, Psalm 1) and bring our flesh into quietness, so that we can hear God's voice to us (v4b). Then we need to 'offer the sacrifices of righteousness', which means doing right actions in obedience to God's word to us, and doing what God tells us to do in the situation, trusting in Him that He knows best (v5, Proverbs 3:5-6), even though this may well mean denying the natural inclinations of our flesh and human reasoning.

I had the opportunity to bring the message at the church I serve on December 31st! Enjoy! If you enjoy today's podcast, click subscribe and be on the look out for future episodes to drop. The typical rhythm for new podcasts on this channel is around two per month. If you would like to contact me directly you can do so at live.lead.inbetween@gmail.com. If you would like to become a patron of the show click the link for the ⁠⁠⁠⁠LLIB Patreon Page⁠⁠⁠⁠ and become a member. Follow me on X ⁠⁠@TravisJonesLLIB --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/travis-jones275/message

Sunday, December 31, 2023 ~ Sermon Notes Renewing Our Covenant with God ~ Psalm 103 Today, we gather to reflect on the tradition of John Wesley's Covenant Renewal Service. In this timeless ritual, Wesley invited believers to reaffirm their commitment to God—a commitment not taken lightly but embraced with deep conviction. Wesley believed in the power of intentional relationship with God, and the Covenant Renewal Service became a pivotal moment for Methodists to renew their vows of love, faith, and obedience. It's a reminder that our journey of faith is not a one-time decision but a continuous, intentional walk with our Creator. As we engage in this service, we echo the words spoken by those who have gone before us, committing ourselves afresh to God's guidance, grace, and love. It's a moment to examine our hearts, acknowledging areas where we may have strayed, and seeking forgiveness and renewal. The Wesleyan Covenant Prayer was adapted by John Wesley for the renewal of the believer's covenant with God. Wesley says that The prayer was first used in a covenant renewal service held on Monday, August 11, 1755, in London, with 1800 people present. Since then, the Wesleyan Covenant Prayer is often used in Methodist churches around the world on the first Sunday of the year, or in watch night services on New Year's Eve.  Not to Be Taken Lightly In Wesley's words, this covenant is not a human invention but a divine promise. It's an acknowledgment that God's faithfulness far surpasses our own, and in our weaknesses, His strength is made perfect. Consider the scriptural foundation of covenant renewal. In the Old Testament, we see the Israelites renewing their commitment to God, and in the New Testament, Jesus inaugurates a new covenant through His sacrifice on the cross. The Covenant Renewal Service aligns us with this biblical tradition, emphasizing the continuity of God's redemptive plan. Today, as we partake in this sacred act, let us reflect on the blessings and challenges of the past year. Let's remember that our God is a God of second chances, and His mercies are new every morning. We are not defined by our mistakes but by the grace that abounds in Christ. Conclusion May this Covenant Renewal Service be a catalyst for personal and communal revival. Let it strengthen the bonds of our family of faith and inspire us to live out our Christian calling with passion and purpose. Let this be a simple way to tell others what we are about here at Shiloh Church; we are people living out a shared covenant of total devotion to Jesus Christ. So, let us embrace this sacred moment with open hearts, understanding that our covenant with God is not a static commitment but a dynamic relationship that grows and deepens with each passing day. Let's suppose that what will say is recorded in Heaven and will be used in the LORD's court on the day of judgment. I dare you to take the words you're about to say so seriously that you can imagine them being heard and written down in God's book of life. A Covenant Prayer in the Wesleyan Tradition I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee, exalted for thee or brought low for thee. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and heartily yield all things to thy pleasure and disposal. And now, O glorious and blessed God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen. ~ 

Rev. Steve West guides us through the Wesley Covenant prayer, used at the beginning of the new year by many United Methodist congregations to renew their covenant with God.

During November we had a POWERFUL night of Furnace. Here is the talk from that event where James Aladiran teaches on Covenant Prayer following on from our recent interview with James Kawalya.

Today is day 272 and we are studying The First Commandment. 272. How are you tempted to worship other gods? I am tempted to trust in myself, my pleasures, my possessions, my relationships, and my success, wrongly believing that they will bring me happiness, security, and meaning. I am also tempted to believe superstitions and false religious claims, and to reject God's call to worship him alone. (1 Kings 11:1–8; Psalm 73:1–17; Matthew 26:14–16; 27:1–5; Romans 1:18–32) We will conclude today by praying Prayer 93. A Covenant Prayer found on page 674 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Today is day 223 and we are on the section of the Doxology and the Amen. 223. Why do you end the Lord's Prayer by saying “Amen”? By saying “Amen,” which means “so be it,” I declare my agreement with the prayer. I unite with the faithful, and together we pray as Jesus commanded, believing that our petitions please the Father, and trusting that he will hear and answer us. (Nehemiah 8:1–3, 5–6; Psalms 72:18–19; 106:48; 2 Corinthians 1:19–20; Revelation 19:1–4) We will conclude today with Prayer 93. A Covenant Prayer found on page 673 in the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Covenant Prayer // James Aladiran Prayerstorm.org ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ For More info on Gold Street Garden visit; https://linktr.ee/goldstreetgarden To Sow Into the Ministry Cashapp; $goldstreetgarden Venmo; @goldstreetgarden

Completion of the book of exodus reading ! Pray and be firm

In this lesson, Pastor Dale teaches on the benefits of invoking the promises of God that are part of our covenant when we pray. He also discusses the significance of New Covenant believers having the authority to pray in the name of Jesus.

Rabeinu connects many different concepts together, all starting with rectifying the covenant!Rabeinu then discusses how rectifying the covenant enables one to attain prayer and faith! Rabeinu also talks about the holiness of Shabbat and how Shabbat alludes to prayer. He then explains this in connection with the culmination of all knowledge, which is knowing absolutely nothing!Rabeinu also connects these ideas with space, wisdom, donning a holy body from Gan Eden, elevating one's Mazal, subduing gloom, elevating fallen fears and loves, uncovering our eyes, chametz, the redemption, studying with flames of love, covering up spilled blood, embarrassment, transforming sins into merits, etc…Rabeinu also discusses an amazing chiddush with regard to how G-d slaughters the mitzvah a Jew performed in order to render the mitzvah kosher for Him to enjoy!

I am no longer my own, but yours. Put me to what you will, rank me, with whom you will. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed by you or laid aside for you, exalted for you, or brought low for you. Let me be full, let me be empty. Let me have all things, let me have nothing. I freely and Heartily yield all things to your pleasure and disposal. And now, O' glorious and blessed God, father, son, and holy spirit, you are mine, and I am yours. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth, let it be ratified in heaven. Amen. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/austin-bender1/support

Hey, y'all! Welcome to the Gary Church Podcast . . . from Gary Church, here in Wheaton, IL. We would love to have you worship with us! You may find more information about our next worship service at www.garychurch.org. This is the scripture and sermon from January 1, 2023, New Year's Day, Wesley Covenant Renewal Service, and Epiphany Sunday! Our scripture is read by Nan Krull and  (00:05) and the sermon by Rev. Brian Felker Jones “Be Holy, As I Am Holy” (06:37). At Gary Church our mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!         Today we have a special opportunity to be part of the Wesley Covenant Renewal Service. In 1663 Richard Alleine, a Puritan, published  Vindiciae Pietatis:  or, “A Vindication of Godliness in the Greater Strictness and Spirituality of It”. In 1753, it was again published in John Wesley's  A Christian Library. Wesley used one chapter, "The Application of the Whole," on Monday, August 11, 1755, in what probably was the first real celebration of the Covenant Service in the Methodist movement.           Wesley found the service rich and meaningful. After the time of Wesley several versions of the Covenant Service were developed, gradually giving Wesley's material less place in the total service. The present service follows our Basic Pattern of worship, enables the congregation to participate more fully, and updates language. Most significant, the liturgy beginning with the Invitation is taken directly from Wesley's service of 1780.          The Covenant Service is most commonly held on New Year's Eve or New Year Day. It is extremely popular to this very day across the breadth of Methodism around the world and Anglicanism. The heart of the service, focused in the Covenant Prayer, requires persons to commit themselves to God. We are looking forward to together through worship, re-committing ourselves to Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior!2 Chronicles 34:29 –33Jeremiah 31:31 –341 Peter 1:13-25John 15:1–8 Revised Common LectionaryVideo of the entire Wesley Covenant Renewal Service, January 1, 2023 Worship Service at Gary Church

A New Year's Covenant Prayer.

I have been using prayers that include the names of God at the end of my podcasts. Here is a video version of the prayer from the episode "God Fights for Me" posted on 10/23/22. (Some apps will only support this as an audio file. The video version is available on Spotify, Facebook, and Instagram.) If this helps you, please share it with a friend! Blessings! Dr. Toni Cooper --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/antoinette-t-cooper/message

This week Brian looks at the Covenant Prayer by John Wesley

This week as part of the “Pray Always“ series Justin and Trish lead us through the Wesley Covenant PrayerRe-watch this week's service here.

Wesley's Covenant Prayer is beautifully written and describes so well what following Christ can mean. While the level of commitment required by this prayer can be a bit intimidating, it's still the roadmap to our best relationship with God. That's what we talk about in this episode of The Untidy Methodist.

Pastor Richard shares the promises and provision are all ours in Christ Jesus and we can trust God to make a way when there seems to be no way. As God has revealed Himself in the Bible, it is for all of us today, so whatever we have need of we can receive through the New Covenant of Jesus.

This week in the way of Jesus, and here in the 7th week after the Epiphany, Pastor Banning invites us to the practice of Praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer... with a special guest from our friend Evan Mosshart from the 8th Street Urban Farm. Check out the work they are doing at the link below and follow them on Instagram. https://www.8thsturbanfarm.org/ Instagram: @8thsturbanfarm Our Scripture text for this Sunday comes out of 1 Corinthians 15:32-35, 42-50 Let us enter into this practice, together, as we live the way of Jesus. Show Notes: Sermon from 2/20: https://youtu.be/coTWKehegT4 For more information about the 8th Street church, visit www.8thstreetchurch.org Contact: life@8thstreetchurch.org Podcast Website: anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus "Living the Way of Jesus" by Michaele LaVigne: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Way-Jesus-Practicing-Christian/dp/0834138360 Music: "Beautiful Things" by Gungor CCLI Streaming License: #20130645 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus/message

This week in the way of Jesus, and here in the 6th week after the Epiphany, Pastor Chris invites us to the practice of Praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer... again :) Our Scripture text for this Sunday comes out of 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 Let us enter into this practice, together, as we live the way of Jesus. Show Notes: Sermon from 2/13: https://youtu.be/ohB3AhW0ph8 For more information about the 8th Street church, visit www.8thstreetchurch.org Contact: life@8thstreetchurch.org Podcast Website: anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus "Living the Way of Jesus" by Michaele LaVigne: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Way-Jesus-Practicing-Christian/dp/0834138360 Music: "Oh Love That Will Not Let Me Go" by George Matheson, Arr. by Robbie Seay Band CCLI Streaming License: #20130645 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus/message

This week in the way of Jesus, and here in the 5th week after the Epiphany, Pastor Banning invites us to the practice of Praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer... again :) Our Scripture text for this Sunday comes out of 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Let us enter into this practice, together, as we live the way of Jesus. Show Notes: Sermon from 2/6: https://youtu.be/7OgBtPoc0GE For more information about the 8th Street church, visit www.8thstreetchurch.org Contact: life@8thstreetchurch.org Podcast Website: anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus "Living the Way of Jesus" by Michaele LaVigne: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Way-Jesus-Practicing-Christian/dp/0834138360 Music: "Your Labor is Not in Vain" by Sojourn Music CCLI Streaming License: #20130645 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus/message

This week in the way of Jesus, and here in the 4th week after the Epiphany, Pastor Chris invites us to the practice of Praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer... again :) Our Scripture text for this Sunday comes out of Luke 4:14-21 & 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Let us enter into this practice, together, as we live the way of Jesus. Show Notes: Sermon from 1/30: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYFbCyQ-ao0 For more information about the 8th Street church, visit www.8thstreetchurch.org Contact: life@8thstreetchurch.org Podcast Website: anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus "Living the Way of Jesus" by Michaele LaVigne: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Way-Jesus-Practicing-Christian/dp/0834138360 Music: "Jubilee" by Maverick City CCLI Streaming License: #20130645 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus/message

This week in the way of Jesus, and here in the 3rd week after the Epiphany, Pastor Chris invites us to the practice of Praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer. Our Scripture text for this Sunday comes out of 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a Let us enter into this practice, together, as we live the way of Jesus. Show Notes: Sermon from 1/23: For more information about the 8th Street church, visit www.8thstreetchurch.org Contact: life@8thstreetchurch.org Podcast Website: anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus "Living the Way of Jesus" by Michaele LaVigne: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Way-Jesus-Practicing-Christian/dp/0834138360 Music: "Oh Great God Give Us Rest" by David Crowder Band CCLI Streaming License: #20130645 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus/message

This week in the way of Jesus, and here in the 2nd week after the Epiphany, Pastor Banning invites us to the practice of Praying the Wesley Covenant Prayer. Our Scripture text for this Sunday comes out of 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 Let us enter into this practice, together, as we live the way of Jesus. Show Notes: Sermon from 1/16: https://youtu.be/wC7OOrL7rGU For more information about the 8th Street church, visit www.8thstreetchurch.org Contact: life@8thstreetchurch.org Podcast Website: anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus "Living the Way of Jesus" by Michaele LaVigne: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Way-Jesus-Practicing-Christian/dp/0834138360 Music: "Shine Your Light On Us" by Robbie Seay Band CCLI Streaming License: #20130645 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/thisweekinthewayofjesus/message

Cory and Brian set up the new year with a short episode highlighting the Wesley Covenant Prayer. John Wesley invited people to pray this prayer at the beginning of each new year as a way of remembering and renewing their baptismal covenant, as well as a commitment to joining Jesus in His mission. What's He inviting you into this year? Next steps with the Underground: Subscribe to our newsletter Connect with us for Coaching Support the Underground

In this edition of R.P.K.R., we look at Matthew 6:25-34 and worship God with "Amazing Grace," "Holy Spirit," and "Covenant Prayer." All this and of course, dad jokes.

We're back! Join Regan and two of our lovely friends, Taylor Vaughan and Sarah Jane Thompson, as they discuss the Wesley Covenant Prayer and how it applies to their lives.