Expect Great Things
Psalm 126:1-6 When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves. (NRSV)
I wonder whether when we pray, we don’t sometimes go to God with exceedingly low expectations. Does He even hear me? Does He even care? Is He even there? Low expectations indeed.
Now please, don’t get me wrong. I don’t come from the “name-it-and-claim-it” or “blab-it-and-grab-it” school of prayer, because in all things God is sovereign; His will will be done. Nevertheless, Scripture is replete with examples of highly expectant prayer. Here’s just one of those:
Psalm 126:1-6 When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then it was said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.” The LORD has done great things for us, and we rejoiced. Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like the watercourses in the Negeb. May those who sow in tears reap with shouts of joy. Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves. (NRSV)
Now I’m not for one moment suggesting that God will dance to our tune or deliver on every one of our whims and fancies. That’d be ridiculous. Yet that Psalm has high expectations indeed. Something that 19th century South African pastor, Andrew Murray, once wrote resonates deeply here:
Each time before you intercede, be quiet first and worship God in His glory. Think of what He can do and how He delights to hear the prayers of His redeemed people. Think of your place and privilege in Christ and expect great things.
May those who go out weeping return with shouts of joy.
That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.
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