Ordinary means of grace: Word and Prayer

“For this commandment that I command you today is not too hard for you, neither is it far off. It is not in heaven, that you should say, ‘Who will ascend to heaven for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?’ Neither is it beyond the sea, that you should say, ‘Who will go over the sea for us and bring it to us, that we may hear it and do it?’ But the word is very near you. It is in your mouth and in your heart, so that you can do it. Deut 30:11-14 ESV

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers;  but his delight is in the law of the Lord , and on his law he meditates day and night.  He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.

Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord !  Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart,  who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways!  You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently.  Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes!   Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.  I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules.  I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me!

Psalms 1:1-3,119:1-8 ESV

Rev. Dan Whang

The pastors decided to do this series so that we could be changed and impacted. In very ordinary and everyday ways. This is so that we know how to live in the days between Sundays.

Daily spiritual disciplines are vital for spiritually thriving. But it is so mundane, slow, and quiet. But this is how God works in our lives.

Sufficiency and clarity of God's word

God's word provides all that we need for knowledge of salvation and godly living. We do not need more. The word enables us to live out our lives. Jesus is the living embodiment of the Word. He is sufficient for salvation and requires nothing more. It does not speak to everything, but it does speak to everything we need.

The scripture is clear enough for even the uneducated given they make use of the ordinary means of study and prayer. Not everything is completely clear, but enough is clear enough to give saving knowledge of salvation.

What intimate prayer requires

Our day to day prayers are supposed to be intimate. Not to say that our prayers with small group and church service are not real, but that praying privately one on one with Jesus is more intimate. We should be looking Him in the eye. Sharing our lives and asking Him questions.

Here's a list:

   Grace
   Fear (awe & respect)
   Helplessness

Guidelines to meditation

We can't just jump from Bible study to prayer. Meditation is needed for meaningful prayer.

What are some personal examples to emulate or avoid?

What are some commands to obey?

What are