Colossians 4:2 (KJV)

Continue in prayer and watch in the same with thanksgiving….

Over the years in ministry, I cannot tell you how many people asked questions that stem from seemingly continued prayer without results. One gentleman went to the extent of asking me if there was a secret to fast-tracking answers to prayer. Let me explain the verse above so that you understand better.

The Greek word proskartereo, which means to press heavily towards something, to never give up, or to lean forward, continue and persevere. By using this word, Apostle Paul tells us to stay focused in prayer, press in the spirit, and never give up. In fact, he goes on to say add thanksgiving to that pressing. Why? He knew that once you have this mindset towards prayer, your victory is guaranteed!

Brothers and sisters, there will be times when some answers to prayer take longer. Especially if the prayer is what I call a “special order,” you are expected to keep pressing and anticipate an outcome even though you are in the parking bay. Don’t give up on what you’ve been praying for. Press heavily towards it and give God thanks while you’re at it – CHAINS ARE BREAKING!

PROPHETIC DECLARATION

I shall never give up on prayer. From this day, I press toward my mark in prayer like never before. Victory is a done deal. Thank You, my Lord God Almighty! Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Hebrews 12:2 (KJV)

Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Let’s explore part b of today’s theme verse, how our Lord Jesus endured the cross and “despised the shame” that came with it. The word “shame” is the Greek word aischune, which means disgrace, dishonour, something despicable and so embarrassing. By using this word, Apostle Paul gives us insight into what our Saviour went through that day. Imagine being severely flogged, strung up on a cross, stripped bare for all to see. How would that make you feel? Though paintings often depict Him with a cloth around his waist, that was not the case. History shows that Roman soldiers were not big on covering the male anatomy.

Our Lord suffered extreme humiliation that day. He not only took sickness upon Himself, He took shame too, so that you don’t need to suffer it. What shame are you holding onto today? The Lord Jesus despised the shame He went through so that you don’t have to be ashamed.

Let it go!

PROPHETIC DECLARATION

I shall never be tormented by my past and its wicked hold. My Lord Jesus delivered me from shame so I could live a bondage-free life. Thank you, My Lord, I am FREE!!

FURTHER STUDY

Romans 10:11

1 Thessalonians 4:15 (KJV)

For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

Let’s examine the word “alive” in today’s verse. The original Greek rendering is zao, which means having vital power, efficient, full of vigour, etc. So, it’s not just talking about you being alive, as in not dead. It's a deeper kind of aliveness. It gives us a clue as to how rapture-ready Christians ought to be.

You see, you ought to be vibrant in your walk with The Lord, fresh and strong, full of life and excited about it. It’s the Christian who is efficient in Kingdom matters that shall go by way of rapture, not the one who blends with the wallpaper in church.

So, you must ask yourself the question, “How vibrant and effective is my Christianity?” Church attendance is easy, anyone can do that. But taking what you have learnt to the highways and byways, applying it to those around you, moving with power and efficiency, serving with vigour and excitement with zero complacency is what sets you apart, ready for the rapture.

Just how ready are you?

PROPHETIC DECLARATION

From this day, I shall walk my faith journey full of vigour, excitement and effectiveness. Christ in me shall be so evident that when people see me, they see Him! Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY

Romans 12:11-13