The Time Is Now - Developing A Lifestyle Of Prayer

2. BothJacob (Genesis 32:24-28) and the blind men (Matthew 20:29-33) displayed strong, reckless passion. Describe one way you would benefit by following their examples.

3. In your own words, what does Psalm 37:4 tell us to do in order to have a heart that wants what God desires?

When you want a lot, you pray a lot, because wanting leads you to the feet of the One who can provide all things. The more you want, the more you work in cooperation with God to achieve those wants-both for His sake and for your own sake-because bothGod and man are blessed when God's will is accomplished on earth. The more you want, the more you dream, and the more goals you set. Some people will be attracted to your dreams, but be pre­ pared for those with little spiritual appetite to think you're strange, because of your passion. Desires that Feed Your Passion The surgeongeneral seeks to educateAmericans about the "food pyramid," that we might feed our bodies properly. Let's seek out what Scripture teaches about a healthy diet for our passion. A. Desire to know and love God. This is the highest, purest and noblest longing of all, and all other godly desires spring out of it. Enjoy your presentrelationship with God to its fullest, but never allow yourself to plateau and stagnate. Anyone who says they've come to know God as fully as they can is deceived. With Paul, let's say, "I want to know you, Lord, and I'11 give up anything in life to that end."

4. Read Philippians 3:7-8. As God increasingly takes center stage in your heart, what other objects of desire will be pushed aside?

5. How does your passion for God compare with the standard set in Psalms 42:1-2, 73:25, 143:6; Isaiah 26:9?