Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Romans 8:26)
As believers, we understand the importance of prayer in our spiritual journey. It is through prayer that we communicate with God and receive guidance from Him. However, there is a type of prayer that goes beyond just asking for our needs and desires. This is called transformational prayer, and it involves inviting the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out.
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, and He plays a vital role in our spiritual growth. In transformational prayer, we invite Him to work in us, revealing areas that need healing and transformation. We surrender our will to His, and allow Him to guide us on the path of righteousness. Through this process, we become more like Christ, and are able to fulfill the purpose that God has for our lives.
There are specific elements of transformational prayer that we can incorporate into our prayer life. These include confession, repentance, surrender, and listening. As we confess our sins and shortcomings, we allow the Holy Spirit to reveal areas that need healing. Through repentance, we turn away from our old ways and turn towards God. Surrendering our will to His allows us to align ourselves with His plan for our lives. Finally, listening to His voice and guidance allows us to receive the transformation that we seek.
Understanding Transformational Prayer
Transformational prayer is a type of prayer that seeks to bring about a change in the individual’s life. It is a prayer that is focused on the Holy Spirit, who is the source of transformation. In this type of prayer, we seek to be transformed by the Holy Spirit, so that we can become more like Christ.
One of the key aspects of transformational prayer is the recognition of our need for transformation. We acknowledge that we are broken and in need of healing. We recognize that we cannot change ourselves, and that we need the Holy Spirit to work in us.
Another important aspect of transformational prayer is the surrender of our will to God. We recognize that God knows what is best for us, and we submit ourselves to His will. We ask Him to transform us according to His plan and purpose.
In transformational prayer, we also seek to align our thoughts and actions with God’s Word. We recognize that His Word is the source of truth and wisdom, and we seek to live according to His principles. We ask the Holy Spirit to help us understand His word and to apply it to our lives.
Overall, transformational prayer is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and transformation. It is a prayer that requires humility, surrender, and a willingness to be changed by God. As we seek to be transformed by the Holy Spirit, we can experience greater peace, joy, and fulfillment in our lives.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Transformational Prayer
When it comes to transformational prayer, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding and empowering us. As believers, we recognize that the Holy Spirit Is the third person of the Trinity and is intimately involved in our daily lives.
One of the primary roles of the Holy Spirit in transformational prayer is to help us align our prayers with God’s will. The Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words (Romans 8:26-27). This means that when we pray, the Holy Spirit is interceding on our behalf, helping us to pray according to God’s will.
In addition to guiding our prayers, the Holy Spirit also empowers us to pray with boldness and confidence. Jesus promised his disciples that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them (Acts 1:8). This same power is available to us today, enabling us to pray with faith and expectancy.
Furthermore, the Holy Spirit helps us to discern the voice of God as we pray. In a world filled with distractions and competing voices, it can be difficult to hear God’s voice clearly. However, the Holy Spirit helps us to discern what God is saying to us, enabling us to pray with greater clarity and direction.
In summary, the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in transformational prayer. He guides our prayers, empowers us to pray with boldness and confidence, and helps us discern the voice of God. As we seek to grow in our prayer lives, let us rely on the Holy Spirit to lead us into a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)
Delving into the depths of the Bible and studying it with utmost diligence is unquestionably a worthy pursuit. With its rich tapestry of teachings, parables, and wisdom, the Bible holds the potential to provide profound insights into the human condition and guide individuals towards a path of enlightenment. By dedicating time and effort to understanding the Scriptures, one embarks on a transformative journey that not only deepens their faith but also fuels spiritual growth. Ultimately, the pursuit of effective Bible study is an admirable endeavor that seeks to nourish the mind, heart, and soul alike.
Here are some tips to help you in your endeavor:
Begin with prayer: Before you start studying, take a moment to pray for guidance and understanding. Ask for wisdom and clarity as you delve into the scriptures. (James 1:5 KJV) If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Choose a study method: There are various approaches to studying the Bible. You can opt for a book-by-book study, a thematic study, or a chronological study, among others. Select a method that suits your interests and goals. A daily reading guide can be an excellent starting point but don’t allow it to become just a routine habit, a chore to check off your to-do list. Take time to examine each verse to discover what God intended us to learn from it.
Read with context: Understanding the historical, cultural, and literary context of a passage is crucial. Consider the writer, the intended audience, and the historical background to gain a deeper comprehension of the text. A good study Bible with cross references is an invaluable resource to understand how the whole Bible is one harmonious message from God, not just many unrelated stories. I use this one in my own daily study, Thomas Nelson’s King James Study Bible. (Opens affiliate link)
Make use of study tools: Utilize study aids such as concordances, Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and study guides. These resources can provide valuable insights and explanations to enhance your understanding. I have used many commentaries in my personal studies, but I must caution you that, while they can be very helpful, these are merely the interpretations of fallible men, therefore imperfect. Always, always allow the Holy Spirit to guide you in the truth of God’s word. Beginning with prayer as mentioned in step one, is the key to preventing ourselves from being led astray by possible errors in any commentary. That said, the best resource I have found E-Sword. It is completely free and available to download for PC, Mac, Android, and Apple. Find it here, E-Sword. Within that software are many options for additional free commentaries and study helps. The Preacher’s Homiletical is one I find particularly helpful when preparing lessons for teaching.
Take notes: As you read, jot down key points, questions, and personal reflections. This helps you engage with the material and aids in retention. Take the questions to God in prayer. Many times I question things out of simple curiosity, and those He may not always answer right away. What I have found is that He will answer at a time when I can use it for a circumstance in my life, or at a time when it most glorifies Him. We must trust Him to give the answers just at the right time.
Join a study group: Discussing the Bible with others can provide different perspectives and foster deeper understanding. Consider joining a Bible study group or finding an online community to share insights and learn from others. This one is not just a helpful suggestion but is actually commanded by God. Hebrews 10:24-25 KJV And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: (25) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Not only can we learn from each other, but gathering with other Christians for Bible study gives opportunity to encourage one another, to provide accountability in our daily walk with the Lord.
Apply what you learn: The Bible is not just a book of knowledge but a guide for practical living. Seek to apply the principles and teachings you encounter in your daily life. James 1:22 KJV But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. God expects us to live out His word, to be salt and light to a lost and dying world.
Remember, studying the Bible is a lifelong journey, and it’s important to approach it with an open mind and humble heart. May your studies be fruitful and enriching as you seek wisdom and guidance from its pages.
Bringing people to Jesus is not simply a task. It is however, a divine calling commanded by our Savior. Thankfully we have the Holy Spirit to strengthen us for the assignment. It is an endeavor that transcends mere duty and becomes an all-encompassing mission driven by love, sacrifice, faith, and cooperation.
Love is at the core of this endeavor. It is through genuine love for our fellow human beings that we can reach out to them and show them the unconditional love that Jesus has for each and every one of us. Love breaks down barriers, opens hearts, and creates connections that allow us to share the message of salvation. It is a love that compels us to reach out to those who are lost, broken, and searching for meaning. We recognize that every single person has inherent worth and deserves to experience the transformative power of God’s grace.
Sacrifice plays a crucial role in bringing people to Jesus. Just as Jesus sacrificed Himself on the cross for our sins, we too must be willing to give up our own desires and comforts for the sake of others. In our pursuit of this calling, we must be willing to make sacrifices. We understand that bringing people to Jesus may require us to step outside our comfort zones, leave behind familiar territories, and invest our time and energy without expecting anything in return. We willingly surrender our own desires for the sake of leading others into the eternal embrace of God’s love. Whether it’s sacrificing our time, resources, or even personal ambitions, we must be willing to put others before ourselves in order to effectively bring them closer to Christ.
Faith becomes our guiding light on this sacred journey. We trust in God’s wisdom and providence as He works through us to guide us through challenges and uncertainties. It is through faith that we can overcome doubts and fears, trusting that God will guide us every step of the way as we bring people into a relationship with Him. Even when faced with rejection or doubt, we hold steadfastly onto the belief that God is working through us – planting seeds of hope and salvation in hearts hungry for truth.
But this mission cannot be accomplished alone – it requires cooperation. As passionate ambassadors of Christ, we join hands with fellow believers who share the same burning desire to bring people closer to Him. Together, we form a united front against darkness and despair, shining the light of Christ’s love into every corner of the world. By working together with other believers, sharing resources, ideas, and support, we can amplify our efforts and reach more souls with the message of hope found in Christ.
Bringing people to Jesus is an extraordinary privilege that requires passion and dedication. Let us embrace this calling with fervor as we strive to bring His light into the lives of those who are searching for meaning and purpose. Let us go forth armed with love, sacrifice, faith, and cooperation – knowing that through our efforts many will find solace in Jesus’ arms. May each step we take bring us closer to fulfilling His commandment: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Together, let’s demonstrate love through sacrifice, strengthen our faith through prayerful dependence on God’s guidance, and cooperate with one another to fulfill the great commission of making disciples of all nations.
Bringing people to Jesus is not just about preaching or converting others; it’s about embodying His teachings through our actions and interactions with others. It’s about being living examples of His love, sacrifice, faith, and cooperation.
Let us embrace this calling with passion and enthusiasm as we strive to bring more souls closer to Jesus – one act of love at a time.
Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
(Ephesians 5:4 ESV)
In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that bring us hope and happiness. But amidst it all, we have a powerful choice – the choice to be grateful.
How you feel – how happy you are, how stressed you are, even how well you sleep – may seem like it’s out of your hands, but it is actually a choice you make. You can choose to be grateful for what you have and allow God to bring joy in your heart. Or you can choose to focus on what you’re lacking, who has wronged you, and what’s not going your way. And guess what? You’ll feel miserable. You may blame others, circumstances, or fate for your unhappiness. But at the end of the day, it’s all about the choices you make. You choose happiness or misery.
Gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion that comes and goes; it is a powerful mindset and a way of life. It goes beyond simply saying “thank you” – it is about cultivating an attitude of appreciation and acknowledging the abundant blessings, big or small, that God provides each and every day. When we choose to embrace gratitude, we are able to shift our perspective from focusing on what may be lacking in our lives to recognizing the incredible abundance that is already present. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-13 KJV, Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. (12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. (13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Gratitude allows us to find joy in the ordinary moments, to see beauty in the simplest of things, and to truly appreciate all that life has to offer. So let us take a moment each day to pause, reflect, and thank God for the myriad of blessings that enrich our lives.
Embracing a mindset of gratitude doesn’t require us to turn a blind eye to the challenges and hardships we encounter on our journey. Rather, it empowers us to find strength and resilience through Christ in the face of adversity. It is through these struggles that we grow and learn valuable lessons that shape our character. Expressing gratitude allows us to discover moments of joy even in the simplest things. It is about pausing, taking a deep breath, and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us every day. Whether it’s the warmth of sunlight on our skin or the laughter shared with loved ones, gratitude opens our hearts to the abundance of blessings in our lives. Let us strive to be thankful not only during moments of triumph but also during times of difficulty. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and find solace in knowing that every experience contributes to our personal development. Within every struggle lies an opportunity for growth, and within every difficulty lies a chance for resilience. James 1:2-3 ESV Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, (3) for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Embrace gratitude as your guiding light, allowing it to illuminate your path and infuse each day with a greater appreciation of God’s work in your life.
When we consciously choose to embrace gratitude in our lives, we are inviting an abundance of positivity and joy to flow into every facet of our existence. Gratitude is not just a mere expression of thanks; it is a powerful mindset that can transform the way we perceive the world. By practicing gratitude, we open doors to new opportunities that may have otherwise been overlooked. It allows us to recognize the blessings and gifts that surround us, even in times of challenge or difficulty. As we cultivate a grateful heart, our outlook becomes brighter, and we become more receptive to the endless possibilities that await us.
Gratitude has a profound impact on our relationships with others. When we express appreciation and acknowledge the goodness in those around us, we strengthen the bonds that connect us. The act of showing gratitude creates an atmosphere of love and understanding, deepening our connections with family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. Beyond personal benefits, gratitude has a ripple effect on society as a whole. When one person chooses to be grateful, it spreads like wildfire touching the lives of those they encounter. Gratefulness becomes contagious as it ignites kindness and compassion within others. By simply expressing gratitude, we have the power to uplift spirits and make a positive difference in someone’s day. So let us remember that when faced with life’s challenges or mundane routines, choosing gratitude allows God to transform our lives for the better. Embrace this beautiful practice and watch as it brings forth abundance, strengthens relationships, and radiates kindness throughout your journey.
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
(Psalms 43:5 KJV)
David found himself in trouble many times during his life. Oppressed by his enemy often thrust this Hebrew king into depression. In this Psalm, though, David realizes he has no reason to worry for the God of Israel was his Master.
In times of uncertainty, finding hope in God’s sovereignty can bring us comfort and peace. Trusting in His divine plan allows us to let go of our worries and anxieties, knowing that He is in control. In the midst of uncertainty, placing our trust in God’s sovereignty can be a source of great comfort and peace. It’s reassuring to know that He has a divine plan for each of us and is in complete control. So, we can let go of our worries and anxieties, knowing that He is guiding us every step of the way.
When we praise God for His goodness and faithfulness, our hope is strengthened. It reminds us of His past faithfulness and gives us confidence that He will continue to provide for us in the future. Praising God for His goodness and faithfulness is such a wonderful way to strengthen our hope. It’s like looking back at a beautiful tapestry of His past faithfulness and being reminded that He will always be there for us in the future. Praising Him, my friend, and let your confidence soar knowing that He will provide for you every step of the way.
Finding contentment in God’s presence is a source of great joy. It allows us to focus on the blessings we have rather than constantly striving for more. When we trust in Him completely, we can experience true contentment and find joy in every circumstance. Finding contentment in God’s presence brings immense joy and peace to our lives. It’s a beautiful reminder that true happiness doesn’t solely depend on external circumstances, but rather on our connection with Him. When we trust in His plans and surrender ourselves to His will, we can find contentment even when faced with challenges. This deep-rooted faith allows us to appreciate the blessings we already have instead of always seeking more. In God’s presence, joy becomes a constant companion that uplifts us through every season of life.
So let us hold onto hope, praise Him with grateful hearts, and find contentment in His loving presence. For with God as our foundation, there is always reason to be joyful and hopeful.
John 9:5-7 KJV “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
(6) When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
(7) And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.”
What a powerful passage from the Bible! In John 9:5-7, we witness Jesus proclaiming himself as the light of the world. His words are filled with hope and assurance. It is truly inspiring to see how he then takes action to demonstrate his power by healing a blind man. Jesus’ compassion knows no bounds as he uses humble elements like clay and spittle to bring about this miraculous healing. The simple act of anointing the blind man’s eyes with clay ignites faith and creates a path for transformation. Moreover, Jesus instructs the blind man to go and wash in the pool of Siloam. This act signifies not only physical cleansing but also spiritual renewal. Many times in scripture we know that water signifies the Word of God. There can be no transformation without the Word of God.
By obeying Jesus’ command without hesitation, the blind man experiences an incredible miracle—he goes from darkness into sight. This story is a beautiful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope for restoration and transformation. Just as Jesus was the light of that world then, he continues to be our guiding light today. Let us trust in his power and have faith that he can bring about miracles in our lives too.
In the journey of discipleship, we often find ourselves spiritually blind, unable to see the path ahead. However, just as Jesus brought physical sight to the blind, He also offers us a spiritual awakening that can illuminate our lives.
The story of the blind man in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how lost we may feel, there is always hope for transformation. Jesus not only healed the physical blindness of this man but also opened his eyes to a deeper understanding of faith and truth.
Just as Jesus used His divine power to restore sight to the blind man, He can also bring light into our lives and help us see things from a new perspective. Through prayer, reflection, and seeking His guidance, we can experience a profound revelation that leads us towards growth and fulfillment.
Let us remember that even in our darkest moments, there is an opportunity for spiritual growth. Like the blind man who encountered Jesus, we too can be transformed by His love and grace. Embrace this journey with faith and trust in Him, for through Him, even the blind may see.
Take inspiration from this passage and remember that you are not alone on your journey. With faith, obedience, and perseverance, you too can experience extraordinary breakthroughs just like the blind man did when he washed in Siloam’s pool. Keep shining your light brightly!
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32 ESV)
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In a world filled with noise and distractions, it can be challenging to stay grounded and connected to our faith. However, by choosing to live in God’s Word, we can find solace, guidance, and unwavering truth. When we abide in His teachings, we embark on a journey of discipleship that leads us closer to Jesus.
Living in God’s Word means more than just reading the scriptures; it means allowing its wisdom to shape our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. It is through this intentional immersion that we begin to understand the depth of His love and purpose for our lives.
As disciples of Christ, we are called to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. By embracing His teachings and embodying His grace and compassion, we become vessels for spreading His light in a world desperately in need of hope.
Let us remember that living in God’s Word is not a solitary endeavor but a communal one. As we gather with fellow believers and engage in heartfelt discussions about scripture, we strengthen our faith and encourage one another on this transformative journey.
Today, let us recommit ourselves to abiding in the truth found within God’s Word. Let us seek understanding, wisdom, and guidance from its pages as we navigate life’s challenges. May our lives be a testament to the power of living according to His will as we strive each day to reflect the love of Christ within us.
John 17:1-26 KJV (1) These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: (2) As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. (3) And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (4) I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. (5) And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. (6) I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word. (7) Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. (8) For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. (9) I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. (10) And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them. (11) And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. (12) While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. (13) And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. (14) I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. (15) I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. (16) They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. (17) Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (18) As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. (19) And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. (20) Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; (21) That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. (22) And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: (23) I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. (24) Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. (25) O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. (26) And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.
2 Chronicles 26:1-23 KJV (1) Then all the people of Judah took Uzziah, who was sixteen years old, and made him king in the room of his father Amaziah. (2) He built Eloth, and restored it to Judah, after that the king slept with his fathers. (3) Sixteen years old was Uzziah when he began to reign, and he reigned fifty and two years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name also was Jecoliah of Jerusalem. (4) And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Amaziah did. (5) And he sought God in the days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper. (6) And he went forth and warred against the Philistines, and brake down the wall of Gath, and the wall of Jabneh, and the wall of Ashdod, and built cities about Ashdod, and among the Philistines. (7) And God helped him against the Philistines, and against the Arabians that dwelt in Gurbaal, and the Mehunims. (8) And the Ammonites gave gifts to Uzziah: and his name spread abroad even to the entering in of Egypt; for he strengthened himself exceedingly. (9) Moreover Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the corner gate, and at the valley gate, and at the turning of the wall, and fortified them. (10) Also he built towers in the desert, and digged many wells: for he had much cattle, both in the low country, and in the plains: husbandmen also, and vine dressers in the mountains, and in Carmel: for he loved husbandry. (11) Moreover Uzziah had an host of fighting men, that went out to war by bands, according to the number of their account by the hand of Jeiel the scribe and Maaseiah the ruler, under the hand of Hananiah, one of the king’s captains. (12) The whole number of the chief of the fathers of the mighty men of valour were two thousand and six hundred. (13) And under their hand was an army, three hundred thousand and seven thousand and five hundred, that made war with mighty power, to help the king against the enemy. (14) And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the host shields, and spears, and helmets, and habergeons, and bows, and slings to cast stones. (15) And he made in Jerusalem engines, invented by cunning men, to be on the towers and upon the bulwarks, to shoot arrows and great stones withal. And his name spread far abroad; for he was marvellously helped, till he was strong. (16) But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense. (17) And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men: (18) And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honour from the LORD God. (19) Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the house of the LORD, from beside the incense altar. (20) And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and, behold, he was leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from thence; yea, himself hasted also to go out, because the LORD had smitten him. (21) And Uzziah the king was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several house, being a leper; for he was cut off from the house of the LORD: and Jotham his son was over the king’s house, judging the people of the land. (22) Now the rest of the acts of Uzziah, first and last, did Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, write. (23) So Uzziah slept with his fathers, and they buried him with his fathers in the field of the burial which belonged to the kings; for they said, He is a leper: and Jotham his son reigned in his stead.
2 Chronicles 27:1-9 KJV (1) Jotham was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. His mother’s name also was Jerushah, the daughter of Zadok. (2) And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Uzziah did: howbeit he entered not into the temple of the LORD. And the people did yet corruptly. (3) He built the high gate of the house of the LORD, and on the wall of Ophel he built much. (4) Moreover he built cities in the mountains of Judah, and in the forests he built castles and towers. (5) He fought also with the king of the Ammonites, and prevailed against them. And the children of Ammon gave him the same year an hundred talents of silver, and ten thousand measures of wheat, and ten thousand of barley. So much did the children of Ammon pay unto him, both the second year, and the third. (6) So Jotham became mighty, because he prepared his ways before the LORD his God. (7) Now the rest of the acts of Jotham, and all his wars, and his ways, lo, they are written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah. (8) He was five and twenty years old when he began to reign, and reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem. (9) And Jotham slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city of David: and Ahaz his son reigned in his stead.
2 Chronicles 28:1-27 KJV (1) Ahaz was twenty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem: but he did not that which was right in the sight of the LORD, like David his father: (2) For he walked in the ways of the kings of Israel, and made also molten images for Baalim. (3) Moreover he burnt incense in the valley of the son of Hinnom, and burnt his children in the fire, after the abominations of the heathen whom the LORD had cast out before the children of Israel. (4) He sacrificed also and burnt incense in the high places, and on the hills, and under every green tree. (5) Wherefore the LORD his God delivered him into the hand of the king of Syria; and they smote him, and carried away a great multitude of them captives, and brought them to Damascus. And he was also delivered into the hand of the king of Israel, who smote him with a great slaughter. (6) For Pekah the son of Remaliah slew in Judah an hundred and twenty thousand in one day, which were all valiant men; because they had forsaken the LORD God of their fathers. (7) And Zichri, a mighty man of Ephraim, slew Maaseiah the king’s son, and Azrikam the governor of the house, and Elkanah that was next to the king. (8) And the children of Israel carried away captive of their brethren two hundred thousand, women, sons, and daughters, and took also away much spoil from them, and brought the spoil to Samaria. (9) But a prophet of the LORD was there, whose name was Oded: and he went out before the host that came to Samaria, and said unto them, Behold, because the LORD God of your fathers was wroth with Judah, he hath delivered them into your hand, and ye have slain them in a rage that reacheth up unto heaven. (10) And now ye purpose to keep under the children of Judah and Jerusalem for bondmen and bondwomen unto you: but are there not with you, even with you, sins against the LORD your God? (11) Now hear me therefore, and deliver the captives again, which ye have taken captive of your brethren: for the fierce wrath of the LORD is upon you. (12) Then certain of the heads of the children of Ephraim, Azariah the son of Johanan, Berechiah the son of Meshillemoth, and Jehizkiah the son of Shallum, and Amasa the son of Hadlai, stood up against them that came from the war, (13) And said unto them, Ye shall not bring in the captives hither: for whereas we have offended against the LORD already, ye intend to add more to our sins and to our trespass: for our trespass is great, and there is fierce wrath against Israel. (14) So the armed men left the captives and the spoil before the princes and all the congregation. (15) And the men which were expressed by name rose up, and took the captives, and with the spoil clothed all that were naked among them, and arrayed them, and shod them, and gave them to eat and to drink, and anointed them, and carried all the feeble of them upon asses, and brought them to Jericho, the city of palm trees, to their brethren: then they returned to Samaria. (16) At that time did king Ahaz send unto the kings of Assyria to help him. (17) For again the Edomites had come and smitten Judah, and carried away captives. (18) The Philistines also had invaded the cities of the low country, and of the south of Judah, and had taken Bethshemesh, and Ajalon, and Gederoth, and Shocho with the villages thereof, and Timnah with the villages thereof, Gimzo also and the villages thereof: and they dwelt there. (19) For the LORD brought Judah low because of Ahaz king of Israel; for he made Judah naked, and transgressed sore against the LORD. (20) And Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria came unto him, and distressed him, but strengthened him not. (21) For Ahaz took away a portion out of the house of the LORD, and out of the house of the king, and of the princes, and gave it unto the king of Assyria: but he helped him not. (22) And in the time of his distress did he trespass yet more against the LORD: this is that king Ahaz. (23) For he sacrificed unto the gods of Damascus, which smote him: and he said, Because the gods of the kings of Syria help them, therefore will I sacrifice to them, that they may help me. But they were the ruin of him, and of all Israel. (24) And Ahaz gathered together the vessels of the house of God, and cut in pieces the vessels of the house of God, and shut up the doors of the house of the LORD, and he made him altars in every corner of Jerusalem. (25) And in every several city of Judah he made high places to burn incense unto other gods, and provoked to anger the LORD God of his fathers. (26) Now the rest of his acts and of all his ways, first and last, behold, they are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel. (27) And Ahaz slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city, even in Jerusalem: but they brought him not into the sepulchres of the kings of Israel: and Hezekiah his son reigned in his stead.
John 16:16-33 KJV (16) A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father. (17) Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father? (18) They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith. (19) Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me? (20) Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. (21) A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. (22) And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you. (23) And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. (24) Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. (25) These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. (26) At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: (27) For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. (28) I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father. (29) His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. (30) Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God. (31) Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe? (32) Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. (33) These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
