Journal for April 21st…Knowing Him

5:41 AM

Psalm 21, 51

Father, what a wonderful way to begin my prayers, with the words You give me in the Bible. I could not express the thoughts of my heart any better than You have already given me. 51:5 I was guilty when I was born, so v 10 create a clean heart for me, Lord, and renew a steadfast spirit within me…restore the joy of Your salvation v12 and give me a willing spirit. Lord, if You would open my lips v15 then I will declare Your praise today. Yes, I will give You praise for Your magnificent righteousness and mercy.

Psalm 21…I know this, any victory that I experience is Your victory v5. You give blessings forever and cheer me with nothing less than the joy of Your presence v6. Your presence -- how great is the blessing of Your presence…that the Creator and sustainer (and Judge) of all that there is should even trouble Himself to have a relationship with me. How did I deserve this? I deserve this because, and only because, Jesus died and suffered grossly for me, in my place. You made it happen. Everything that was needed so You and I could have a relationship, You did it! You devised the plan and pulled it off! And I believe it!!

I am grateful that my family believes it, too. And I am grateful that there are people, friends of mine and co-church members that believe it, too. It is for these, my family, friends, and co-members that I pray in the Name of Jesus and the power of His blood that You, Father, would put a strong hedge of protection around us all today. The enemy, like a terrorist, is at war with us whether we know it or not. Help us/me to be vigilant and strong in the fray.

Give me the mind of Christ; help me react from the spirit, not emotions; may Your truth guide me; embolden me to witness should the opportunity arise; keep Your Word in my heart and mind; and increase my faith in You and Your promises; and, Lord, continue to move throughout the world in the lives of my fellow believers -- most I won't meet until Heaven -- that suffering persecution today.

We will continue to talk, Lord, throughout the day, so be real to me and fill me with Your Spirit. Thank You for Your Spirit.