Access to the Throne of God

Friday 15 September
READ: Psa. 23:1-6      
MORE LESSON:  John 14:19-21

Prayer is talking with God. If a man must not pray in vain, the first thing is to secure access to the throne where the God who answers prayer sits. Jesus' first lesson on prayer is instructive, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name...:  Lk. 11:2. The key to gaining access to the Father is relationship. Without this key factor one is locked out of God's presence and help, regardless of what a person does, including giving money, property, time and labour for God. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God...: Jn. 1:12.

The strongest relationship is that of redemption, and this is why the prayer of a sinner is an abomination to God. Many people reject Jesus as the Son of God but cry to Him as a  prophet. While others wallow in sin, they recite all the psalms in prayer; this is an exercise in futility. Even Jesus had access to God first as a Son. No man will enjoy prayer without this personal relationship of redemption. But if you acknowledge your sins, repent and accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour, you will have access to God and answers to prayer.

When prayer comes out of a relationship between the Father and His son, it is obviously different from any other type of request. At that point it's the Father's responsibility to provide and the right of the son to receive provision. When requests are made on such a platform, failure is limited and the possibilities are unlimited. Start a relationship with Jesus today by inviting Him into your life as the Lord and Saviour and see the door open to your requests.

The sheep in our reading today enjoys all the following benefits just because he has a relationship with the shepherd.
1. Never wants; v1
2. Green pastures and still waters; v2
3. Restoration and divine guidance; v3
4.Divine presence and safety; v4
5. A prepared table and an overflowing cup regardless of enemy activities; v5
6. A permanent assured goodness, mercy and more.

All these happen because of the relationship!
When you choose to be a sheep in Jesus' sheepfold, all of these and more in eternity await you. However, to be or not to be a sheep is a personal choice.

Prayer/Action
* Receive grace for access to God's throne always, in Jesus’ name.
* Ask God to grant you grace to have a consistent relationship with Him.
* Pray that you will find favour with God and men.

TODAY’S PROPHETIC PRAYER
Every negative turn must turn again this month; they must turn positive, glorious and become a miracle and a celebration, in the name of Jesus.