Tag Archives: instant gratification

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – No Gumball Answers

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The first ever reference to a vending machine was from the work of Hero of Alexandria (c. AD 10-70). You may be surprised to know it was designed to dispense holy water. Over the years, the popularity of vending machines has grown steadily. Now you can attain anything from gumballs to plastic rings to canned drinks and snacks.

Then a wind from the Lord sprang up, and it brought quail from the sea and let them fall beside the camp.  Numbers 11:31

Why the popularity? People like instant gratification. While wandering in the wilderness, God provided the Israelites manna each day. But the people complained to Moses because they wanted meat. Like so many children aiming for the golden vending machine prize, the Israelites were dissatisfied with God’s provision and asked for more. The Lord sent so much quail, it took two whole days to gather it. He provided, but soon His anger burned against them.

Prayer cannot be treated like coin-operated machines. God doesn’t work that way, but He will come alongside you if you ask. Take your concerns for the nation and its leaders to your Heavenly Father. Be assured He will be with you. Just remain grateful, and don’t expect Him to dispense answers like gumballs.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 4

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Charles Stanley – The Promise of Humility

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1 Peter 5:5-7

Jesus’ life exemplified humility. He did not assert His divine rights while on earth but instead left behind the glory and authority to which He was entitled. Cloaking himself with humanness, Jesus chose to be an obedient servant of His Father (Phil. 2:5-8).

Our Savior’s example was and still is countercultural. This world does not value an attitude or lifestyle of humility; rather, it applauds high achievement, outward beauty, elevated positions, or exceptional skills. But God assures us that if we choose meekness—living in submission to Jesus as Master of our lives—He will reward us in both this life and the life to come. (Matt. 5:5 niv).

In today’s verses, Peter outlines our options. Spiritual blessings are promised if we choose God’s way of humility. But if we pridefully forsake His path, the Lord will oppose us because we are essentially working against Him in arrogant self-sufficiency. However, when we humble ourselves by yielding to His authority and desiring to obey Him, He will be our source of strength and confidence.

There’s something else to consider: Since we sometimes buy into the significance society places on instant gratification, we tend to want recognition now. But God honors us according to His perfect way and timing.

The decision is yours to make: Will you humble yourself and live for God’s glory rather than yours? Or will you plot your own course and invite His opposition? If you’re wise, it’s not really much of a decision after all. So take a look at your priorities and ask God to reveal any areas driven by pride.