Spiritual Preparations

However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting. ((Matthew 17:21)

Ahh yes . . . another summer coming to a close and another school year about to begin. Teachers and youth leaders around the world are asking the same question: "How can I be more effective reaching the youth?" Jesus has already answered the question nearly two thousand years ago! The disciples asked Him why they could not drive out the demon from the young boy in Matthew 17. His response was the passage above. No matter our lesson plans or our study tools, in this day and age I believe we have forgotten the art of real old-fashioned prayer and fasting. Oh yes, we do fast and we do pray, but don't you agree it has become more ritual and habit than fervent and heart-felt? When is the last time you or I have prayed as Jesus did in Luke 22:4 or in John 17? Look at those prayers for a moment . . . . Jesus, in Luke 22, was so anguished that He actually would sweat droplets of blood, a phenomenon known as hemothohidrosis, as He prayed. In John 17 He prayed for every believer that we would be one just as He and His Father were one and that we would obey all that we have been taught in order to influence this world, not escape the world! Real prayers . . . heart-breaking prayers . . . prayers with real meaning, real feelings, real pain, and real challenges. In fact, Jesus also modeled fasting for us even before He entered His earthly ministry by being Sprit-led to fast forty days and nights. This was not of His own choosing mind you, but Spirit-led! The result of His fasting was not pleasurable either, but challenging as He faced down Satan. Oops, articles, videos Whether we will be teaching, mentoring, leading small groups, or simply being a parent, the right preparation is key. Our children need us to be ready for all they can throw at us . . . and some will be ready to do just that! While we have the right books, articles, web sites, music, videos and other tools prepared, WE must be prepared! Do not take anything for granted . . . "except by prayer and fasting"! www.tsninthebeginning.blogspot.com