The Departure of Jesus - Pt. 5
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | September 11 2024 | John 16:23-32
KEY VERSE:
Until now you have asked nothing in my Name. Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:24 (ESV)
MESSAGE:
In this final segment, I will present three reflections to conclude our devotionals on John 16, starting with prayer as the key to complete joy. The joy Jesus speaks of comes when we receive answers to our prayers. Verses 26 and 27 assure us that God, the Father, hears us when we pray in the Name of Jesus. Jesus is clear in verse 26 that He won’t be the one praying for us—meaning we cannot outsource our prayer lives to Him.
The prayer life of the Early Church, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, is truly inspiring:
After Jesus’ ascension, they dedicated themselves to prayer (Acts 1).
In Acts 1, they sought God’s guidance in choosing between two equally qualified candidates.
In Acts 4, they prayed in response to threats from the Jewish leaders.
In Acts 6, the apostles prioritized prayer and ministry of the Word.
In Acts 12, through prayer, they overcame Herod’s persecution.
It’s surprising how often prayer remains an unused weapon in the lives of believers, even though incomplete joy often lingers. Perhaps many have outsourced their prayer needs to the multitude of new prophets. Even more concerning, national intercession has diminished. Call for prayer for Ghana, and the attendance will be sparse. Call for breakthrough prayers, and the place will be packed. But let’s remember, the Lord’s Prayer begins with “Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done,” before “Give us our daily bread.”
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Prayer is essential to our relationship with God. Jesus makes it clear that we are called to pray ourselves, not rely on others to do it for us. Set aside a specific time each day to present your needs and desires directly to God, trusting that He is ready to listen. If you’ve been neglecting prayer, take this moment to recommit. Also, consider how you can pray for your nation and community, not just your personal needs. Through consistent prayer, our joy can be made complete.*
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, teach us to love praying in our own interest and not to rely on others. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: RECEIVED The Greek word "λαμβάνω" (lambanó) means "to take," "to receive," or "to grasp." It implies an active acceptance or seizing of something offered or available. The term often carries connotations of willingly receiving something that is given, emphasizing both the giver's offer and the recipient's action in accepting it. In the New Testament, lambanó frequently refers to receiving spiritual blessings, gifts, or truths from God. In John 16:24, Jesus encourages His disciples to ask in His name, promising that they will receive, leading to complete joy. The use of lambanó emphasizes that the act of receiving is not passive; it requires active participation in faith and prayer. Jesus is urging His followers to approach God with confidence, knowing that when they ask according to His will, they will receive. This "receiving" is more than just material blessings—it encompasses spiritual fulfilment, joy, and peace. Reflections: Asking God in prayer is only the first step. It’s our faith in receiving what God provides that completes the process and fills our hearts with joy. Are you fully trusting God to answer your prayers, and are you ready to actively receive what He is offering in response to your faith?
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