The Time Is Now - Developing A Lifestyle Of Prayer

Memory Passage "But the noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands." -Isaiah 32:8

Going Further and Deeper

Additional thoughts on Principle B: Individually, we need to set goals for our lives. Corpo­ rately we need to set goals for our ministries and programs. In this way the Holy Spirit can much more effectively move through our hearts and minds to direct before we act. Why do we think it is more spiritual to be controlled by the Spirit while we act, than to have our hearts, minds, and wills led by the Spirit before we act? Much impulsive decision making is actually unwise reaction to pressure; much of life's pressure would be avoided by more prayer and careful planning. Additional thoughts on Principle C: We sometimes fail at stewardship because we forget to think in terms of God's timetable. God does not call in His accounts every week, or we would remain much moremindful of our role as stewards. In His wisdom, He has chosen to call in His accounts much farther down the road, requiring us to seek His will for longer-te1m planning. "Goals are an offering before the Lord. It is our way of saying, 'Lord, this is what we believe you want us to do, and this is what we intend to do. If you would like to direct us in another path, we are open to your leading. Meanwhile we move ahead in faith."' -Ted Engstrom As you step out and seek God for goals and the path to fulfilling the dreams He has given you, set a prayer plan in place.This will help you be systematic about praying for these goals, and it will allow the Holy Spirit more freedom in refining their fulfillment in you.