Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Jacob 3

1 BUT behold, I, Jacob, would speak unto you that are pure in heart. Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause, and send down justice upon those who seek your destruction.
2 O all ye that are pure in heart, lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love; for ye may, if your minds are firm, forever.

What does having a firm mind mean? Jacob explains that those with “firmness of mind” look to God in great faith, even in the midst of affliction. They don’t just believe when things are good and they feel blessed. They are rainy-day Christians. They keep their heads up and draw on the spiritual power available to them in every situation, good and bad. When spouses or children disappoint, when friends abandon, and when disaster strikes, they look up with faith and confidence that all things can be overcome through the power of Christ. They receive comfort and peace. They hear the Master's command to the turbulent sea, "Peace, be still." (Mark 4:39)

4 comments:

Unknown said...

I really understand the power of this idea of firmness of mind. I was thinking about prayer last night. Sometimes my prayers are not concentrated. They are distracted and flighty. The power of the firm focus of a heartfelt prayer in unmeasurable. I have resolved to have a firmer mind when I pray.

stephanie from texas said...

exactly Mimi! we all need to slow down and be thoughtful in our prayers. when we get off our knees we really have felt the power of our words.

Jeff and Janet Kirk said...

So nice to read the comments of two of my favorite people -- two people have been firm in the face of significant diversity.

Jeff and Janet Kirk said...

Did I write "significant diversity?" That would be "adversity."