Umbrella Faith!

During a time of terrible drought in Southern Georgia, an entire congregation gathered at the old country church building for the purpose of praying for rain. The preacher stood looking at the congregation and said, "Brothers and Sisters, we have met here today to pray for rain. Now I have one question to ask ya. Where are your umbrellas?"

James wrote. . .
"(5) If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. (6) But let him ASK IN FAITH, WITH NO DOUBTING, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. (7) For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; (8) he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways." ( James 1:5-8 ESV)

Does our FAITH show? Though we may struggle at times with understanding God's responses to our prayers we need to pray with the expectation He answers according to His will. He has the whole picture of our life in view and lovingly keeps our best interests in mind. But God desires us to PRAY WITH GREAT FAITH, TRUSTING in His love for us, His children.

James also mentioned the prophet Elijah's faith as an example where he wrote. . .

"(17) Elijah was A MAN WITH A NATURE LIKE OURS, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. (18) Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit." ( James 5:17-18 ESV)

Now, Elijah may have served a role we will never serve, but he was still described as an individual like us. Are we growing in a similar FAITH? Do we BELIEVE in God's ability and TRUST in His Will to provide what we need most? Then pray! PRAY BELIEVING! Pray -- and pick up that umbrella! May our FAITH be seen!

Have a great day LIVING IN EXPECTATION OF GOD'S WORKINGS!
Carl

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[This focus was originally sent 05/19/1998 (Edited some with passages changed to ESV)]

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See other teEn-MAIL on Expectations