“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need.”- Hebrews 4:16
As Max Lucado begins Chapter 12 (“Pray Audacious Prayers”) of Glory Days, he notes two occasions when Martin Luther boldly approached the throne of grace for the healing of (1) a coworker as well as (2) his good friend Frederick Myconius. Yet, Pastor Lucado notes, for may people boldness in prayer is an uncomfortable thought.
Joshua’s prayer life, Max adds, teaches us what happens when we don’t pray as much as it tells us how to pray. Following the gathering at Shechem, a group of men presenting themselves as hapless strangers from a distant place entered Joshua’s camp. Joshua and the elders didn’t detect the ruse because they didn’t seek the counsel of the Lord (Joshua 9:14). Standard Hebrew practice was to pray first, ask later.
Max states it is important for us to learn from Joshua’s mistake. This requires two essential actions on our part.
- Consult God in everything. We need to do this consistently and immediately. At every decision and crossroads we must acknowledge and heed Him. If we regularly consult Him, God will disclose Satan’s craftiness by giving us enough light to take the next step. Max concludes: “Glory Days are such because we learn to hear God’s voice telling us to turn this way or that way.”
Today’s question (from the study guide): Do you know someone who prays boldly? Why do you think that person can pray so boldly? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Make prayer the strategy”
