The Power of Prayer for Believers
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Calvary Church
- Paul's Letter to the Colossians
- Jesus: Holding Everything Together
- Practical Application of Jesus's Preeminence
- The Importance of Prayer for Believers
- Overcoming the Flesh and Striving for Dependence on God
- The Danger of Forgetting God's Blessings
- Knowing the Will of God
- Walking Worthy of the Lord
- The Power and Strength of God in Times of Battle
- Gratitude and Worship as a Response to God's Salvation
Jesus: Holding Everything Together
In Paul's letter to the Colossians, he emphasizes the preeminence of Jesus and how He holds everything together—from the majestic to the microscopic. This concept extends to all aspects of our lives, including work, family, friendships, and faith. As Pastor Skip explores the practical application of Jesus's preeminence in this series, he highlights the importance of ensuring that Jesus is at the center of it all. From the music we sing to the sermons we hear, Jesus should be our sole focus and the reason for our worship.
Introduction to Calvary Church
Welcome to Calvary Church with Pastor Skip Heitzig. We are delighted to have you join us today. In this series, Pastor Skip delves into the practical application of Jesus's preeminence, exploring how we can ensure that Jesus is at the center of every aspect of our lives, including our work, family, friendships, and faith.
Paul's Letter to the Colossians
In his letter to the Colossians, the Apostle Paul addresses the importance of Jesus's preeminence and how it applies to the lives of believers. He emphasizes that Jesus holds everything together, from the majestic to the microscopic, and that He should be at the center of all aspects of our lives.
Jesus: Holding Everything Together
Jesus's preeminence extends beyond our personal lives—it encompasses everything in the universe. From the grandeur of the cosmos to the tiniest atoms, Jesus's power and authority reign supreme. It is through Him that all things hold together, creating a harmonious balance in the world around us. Understanding and embracing this truth allows us to live with a sense of awe and reverence for the Creator of all things.
Practical Application of Jesus's Preeminence
While acknowledging the preeminence of Jesus is essential, it is equally important to apply this truth to our daily lives. Pastor Skip explores how we can practically live in a way that reflects Jesus's preeminence. By aligning ourselves with His will and purposes, we can ensure that Jesus remains at the center of our work, family, friendships, and faith.
The Importance of Prayer for Believers
In his teachings, Pastor Skip often emphasizes the significance of prayer in the life of a believer. Prayer is our direct line of communication with God, allowing us to express our needs, seek His guidance, and thank Him for His blessings. However, many believers struggle with their prayer life and feel the need for improvement. Pastor Skip addresses this common challenge and provides practical advice on how to pray effectively and build a stronger relationship with God.
Overcoming the Flesh and Striving for Dependence on God
As humans, we often struggle with our fleshly desires and the innate urge to be independent. We want to rely on ourselves and be in control of our lives. However, as believers, we are called to fight against this inclination and strive for complete dependence on God. Pastor Skip explores the challenges of overcoming the flesh and the blessings that come with trusting God wholeheartedly.
The Danger of Forgetting God's Blessings
It is easy to become complacent and forgetful of the blessings we have received from God. As President Abraham Lincoln warned in his message to America in 1863, we often deceive ourselves into thinking that our success and prosperity are solely a result of our own wisdom and virtue. Pastor Skip highlights the importance of remembering God's hand in our lives and remaining grateful for His blessings.
Knowing the Will of God
One of the most common questions among believers is how to know the will of God. Paul addresses this important topic in his prayer for the Colossians, emphasizing the importance of seeking God's will and aligning ourselves with it. Pastor Skip explores the biblical principles and practical steps we can take to discern and understand God's will for our lives.
Walking Worthy of the Lord
Paul encourages believers to walk worthy of the Lord by living in a manner that reflects His character and purposes. This involves embracing the values and principles taught by Jesus and striving to please Him in all areas of our lives. Pastor Skip explores what it means to walk worthy and offers practical insights on how to live a life that honors and pleases God.
The Power and Strength of God in Times of Battle
As believers, we are not exempt from facing battles and challenges in our lives. However, we can find strength and courage in the power of God. Pastor Skip delves into the topic of spiritual warfare and emphasizes the need for believers to rely on God's strength and might in times of difficulty. He highlights the importance of perseverance and joyfully enduring through trials, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Gratitude and Worship as a Response to God's Salvation
Lastly, Pastor Skip emphasizes the importance of gratitude and worship in our lives as a response to God's salvation. We should never forget that we have been saved by God's grace and that our ultimate destination is heaven. Regardless of our circumstances, we can always find reasons to be thankful and offer our worship to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of His inheritance.
