BY REV. DORAL PULLEY, Today’s Church Tampa Bay
“He asked this only to try him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do (John 6:6).”
Many people see prayers from the imagery of two roles: Santa Claus or a short-order cook. Some see a Santa Claus who gives out toys and gifts based on their naughty or nice behavior. The thought is that if you do all the right things, then God hears and answers your prayers. However, if you think, say. or do something that is not right or perfect, then God will not give you what you desire.
Others see God as a short-order cook. A waitress takes your order then calls it out to the cook who makes it in the kitchen. When your order is ready, the cook rings the bell signaling the waitress to pick it up and bring it to your table so that you can eat it and pay the bill. Some people believe that through prayer, God takes your requests, cooks them up, and delivers them to you.
When you pray in the already, you realize that God is neither Santa Claus nor a short-order cook. According to the scriptures, “He has given us all things that pertain unto life and godliness according to the power who has called us to glory and virtue (II Peter 1:3).” Everything you need or desire naturally or spiritually is ready and waiting for you to receive.
God has already given you all things that pertain to life. That means that all your natural needs and desires, such as a home, mode of transportation, health, career, or a loving relationship, are done. All things that pertain to life and godliness are complete. That means that all your spiritual needs and desires, such as the fruit of the Spirit (character of God), gifts of the Spirit (powerful tools), ascension gifts (positions in ministry), and opportunities to do serve are yours.
According to the Principle of Divine Provision, you lack nothing. Affirm daily: “Everything I need, I have.”
Rev. Doral Pulley is the senior pastor of Today’s Church Tampa Bay, 940 5th Ave. S, St. Petersburg (Staybridge Suites) and 5107 North Central Ave., Tampa.
