Give Us This Day by Pastor Poppie Paul

We use money to buy our daily bread.  That is a simple fact of life.  I do not have a hamburger tree in my back yard.  IN-N-OUT takes ATM, Credit Cards, and Cash.  I have never stood in line and prayed down a double double animal style with crisp fries and a chocolate shake.

 

At the same time, I am totally dependent upon God for my life and opportunities.  God could put the "recall order" out any time He chooses.  God has given me every gift, talent, ability, and opportunity I possess.

So how do we connect prayer, work, our efforts, and God's provision.  A  man in our church used to say, "Pray like it's up to God and row like it's up to you!"  Both sides of the coin are valid.  Some people think they did it all themselves.  Others seem to think it's all up to God.

When we ask for our "daily bread" we are seeking God's blessing.  We are seeking His help.  We are asking God to move on our behalf.  We are acknowledging that we awoke this morning, in this country, with His blessing.  We are asking for God to lead us, guide us, direct us, protect us, empower us, and use us to His glory. 

We are remembering the words of Paul in Ephesians 3:20 (MSG)

God can do anything, you know—

far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!

He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us,

his Spirit deeply and gently within us.

Paul was speaking uniquely of his ministry in Colossians 1:28-29.  However, I believe the same principle of Gods energy at work within us applies to all of our work and endeavors.

So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone

with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God,

perfect in their relationship to Christ. 

That’s why I work and struggle so hard,

depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me.

 Bow your head as you humbly pray, give us this day our daily bread, and then grab hold of the work God has given you to to do with all of the industry, creativity, and power possible.  Then, when something special, wonderful, and unexpected happens take the time to thank Him for hearing your prayers!  Remember, row, pray, row, pray, row, pray!

Have a blessed and anointed day,

Paul