August 14, 2017 – Matthew 18:19-20

“I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:19-20.

Ecclesiastes 4:9 – Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.  Three verses later, A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken. 

For seven years, a group of three ladies met weekly for a time of prayer.  It changed all three ladies in many ways.  Most notably, their surface friendship became a faith relationship – a triple-braided cord.  Even though one had to move away, they still share prayer requests and concerns.

What is it about prayer that strengthens us?  It shows our vulnerability and needs to the One that created our world, the sun and the moon. He gives us breath to praise Him with our deeds, words and thoughts!

Is there a special posture, time, or place to pray? I Thessalonians 5;16-18 – Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Jesus taught us to how to pray in Matthew 6:9-13: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.  May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth,  as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need,  and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us.  And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. 

Giving God the Glory in big things as well as the little things. The lyrics by Josh Grogan help me to understand the beauty of our relationship with Jesus … You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains, You raise me up, so I can walk on stormy seas. I am strong when I am on your shoulders. You raise me up to be more than I can be.