George Mueller lived during the 1800s and prayed in millions of dollars (in today’s currency) to meet the needs of his orphan houses. He never asked anyone directly for money, but trusted God to put in people’s hearts to send him what he needed. He never took out a loan or went into debt. And neither he nor the orphans were ever hungry. Mueller’s calling: The orphan houses exist to display that God can be trusted and to encourage believers to take him at his word. He was grieved that “so many believers . . . were harassed and distressed in mind, or brought guilt on their consciences, on account of not trusting in the Lord.” He wanted to show everyone that God is faithful and still answers prayer. In Mark 11, Jesus teaches people to pray and take Him at His word because He answers prayer.
Jesus sent two disciples to find a colt for His triumphal entry. People brought the colt to Him and spread their garments and branches in the road. They cried out, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord; blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David; Hosanna in the highest!” (Mark 11:1-10). Allow God have triumphal entry in your life so His kingdom comes into the world.
Jesus cast out those buying and selling in the temple and overturned the tables of the moneychangers. He taught that His house should be a house of prayer for all the nations instead of a robbers’ den. The religious leaders sought to destroy Him but the multitude was astonished at His teaching (Mark 11:15-18). Focus on prayer, not money and self-interest.
Jesus exhorted His disciples to have faith in God and not doubt in their heart so they would believe He grants what He says. He told them to forgive if they had anything against anyone so their Father would forgive their transgressions. God won’t forgive those who don’t forgive others (Mark 11:22-26). Trust God in fulfilling promises from His word and answering prayer when you forgive others.
After religious leaders questioned Christ’s authority, He asked, “Was the baptism of John from heaven, or from men?” When they wouldn’t answer, He refused to tell them by what authority He did these things (Mark 11:27-33).
Don’t fear men, but believe in Christ’s supernatural authority in prayer.
Is your life centered in prayer or making a living?
Do you believe God’s promises from His word?
Do you believe that Christ’s authority in prayer comes from heaven?
What is stopping you from making a commitment to pray? (ex. fear of men, not believing God answers prayer, ignorance of God’s promises, distractions in making money)
