In His Grip

 ( Click here for an audio version.  Music is from 'Run for the Prize' in vintage vinyl by Petra.) In the last couple of sessions we have examined, primarily from the Psalms, the desire of the godly to be taught and to be changed .   The surrender of repentance is the crucial first step, and yet, the process is anything but passive. What is next as we sharpen our focus on Jesus? "But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit."   (2 Corinthians 3:18) "… but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus ."     (Philippians 3:13-14) "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles

( Click here for an audio version . Music is from 'Godpleaser' by Petra. ) " Teach me , O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding , that I may observe Your law And keep it with all my heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies And not to dishonest gain. Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, And revive me in Your ways. Establish Your word to Your servant, As that which produces reverence for You. Turn away my reproach which I dread, For Your ordinances are good. Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me through Your righteousness." (Psalm 119:33-40) How do the prayers of the Psalmist here compare to yours?  What are you asking God FOR? Continuing our theme from last week, ‘Teach Me’ , we go further to ask God to change us.  Notice the Psalmist does not pray things like, ‘Lord enable me to…’ , o