A New Lens

A prayer of mine recently has been to see with “Kingdom Eyes” and hear with “Kingdom Ears”. How differently would our attitudes and lives be if we filtered everything through God’s lens of what is best for His Kingdom…and not necessarily what we would say is best for us personally in that moment?! If we are not careful our prayers can become a selfish wish list instead of a desire to see the Kingdom of God grow.

For Your Name’s Sake

In the Psalms there is a phrase that is used over and over, “for your name’s sake”. The writer is asking and praying for things just like many of us do: forgiveness, guidance, provision, deliverance, etc… But the notable aspect of these prayers is the motive and heart behind what is being asked. WHY do I want to be forgiven? WHY do I want God’s guidance? WHY do I want to be helped in times of trouble? The question is not what but why. Do we want God’s help just so we don’t have to hurt or deal with pain which would make our lives more comfortable OR do we want God’s help so He can show the world His great power? Do we want God to guide and lead us so we end up in a more successful position OR do we want God to guide and lead us so His Kingdom is advanced?

When you pray, what is the “WHY”, the reason behind what you are praying? Is the “what” God focused and Kingdom minded or Self focused?