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Fresh Vision of God's Authority
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One of the greatest lessons I've learned as I have traveled around the world is that of God's sovereignty and authority. In many countries where I've ministered the Christian community is poor in material possessions but rich in spiritual power and authority. It seems as though Christians in the western world have reversed that situation. I've often contemplated how that has happened.
I believe that one of the major problems is that we have developed an over-dependence upon technology, talent and riches rather than a dependence upon God. The greatest evidence of our condition can be found at our prayer meetings. We can draw big crowds to our Christian meetings. All we have to do is bring in a well-known musician or movie star or some kind of super star. But if we issue a call for people to pray, we find our churches and meeting places empty.
Meanwhile, darkness seems to be engulfing western civilization. Yet, I've been in countries where God seems to be working mightily. Christians in those nations don't have the privilege of Christian radio or television. They don't even have access to many Christian books. But they do have one thing that many of us are lacking...vision. Their commitment to pray and seek the face of God takes priority in their lives. Consequently, they have come to know the Sovereignty and Authority of God.
Isaiah of the Old Testament had a vision of God. The Scriptures say, "In the year of King Uzziah's death, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted… and the train of His robe filled the temple." Isaiah not only had a vision of God, but he saw Him sitting on His throne. True authority and power are at the throne of God. Real authority and power are not in Washington DC, London, Moscow or any of the world's capitals. But they are at the throne of the Living God. That's why prayer is so vitally important. Prayer gives us access to that seat of authority. We will find that only God's power and authority will be able to turn the tide of immorality and spiritual apathy within our nation and community.
I am personally convinced that we must return to our spiritual roots if we are to experience a mighty sweeping revival. Isaiah saw the Lord sitting upon the throne. What's your vision?
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