A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

Ses s i on 4: Cu l t i vat i ng Our Commun i on: The I nward Di sc i p l i nes 131

g. Bowing our knees before God, Eph. 3.14-16 – For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, [16] that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being.

3. Key texts

a. Asking, seeking, knocking, Matt. 7.7-8 – Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. [8] For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. b. The antidote for anxiety, Phil. 4.6-7 – do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. c. Linked to the advancement of the Kingdom of God, John 15.16 – You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

4. Central principles

a. Prayer is based upon the character of God, and thus, his promises and revelation.

(1) Upon his promises, Gen. 32.9-12; Exod. 32.13; 1 Kings 8.26; Ps. 119.49