Receiving from God - Mark Cowper-Smith - Audio

So how do we receive from God. How do we expand the boundaries of our influence and spiritual authority? Dennis taught us that we do not receive because we earned it. All we receive from God comes because of His grace, not our good works. It is always a pure gift. But, he did tell us that we have a part to play in receiving from God. He said we need to “position” ourselves to receive. How do we do that? Dennis mentioned, having a prayer life with God, reading the Bible, and being a part of genuine Christian relationships [fellowship in a local church]. I want to look at another way we position ourselves to receive more of God in our lives. Now here is the practical application. Growing beyond the circle of your human ability is very uncomfortable. Stepping out beyond what you have self-confidence for is awkward. What if I fail? What if I look foolish? What if my attempted prophetic word is wrong? Asking for more of the Holy Spirit’s power through me is risky. What if something strange happens? What if I get out of control? What if I get emotional? Maybe it is better to just sit in the back and never go forward for prayer or ministry. But what if God is calling you to step out beyond the circle of your comfort and familiarity? What if you will not grow unless you do? Expansion involves change and change involves risk. “Where do I position myself in order to receive more of the power of God in my life”? That position is a few inches outside of the boundary circle of my comfort zone. To see more of God in and through us we need to step outside of our comfort zones and take risks. So here is a good question; when was the last time you did something uncomfortable in answer to God’s prompting? If it is hard to answer that question maybe you’ve stopped growing. Are you willing to ask God regularly; what do you want me to do that is uncomfortable for me? Application: Wait for God to show you what He wants you to do that is beyond your comfort zone. It may be nothing more than coming forward in a service. Or as uncomfortable as offering to pray for your neighbor or co-worker. Whatever it is, take the risk and embrace the discomfort. And remember this; there is no joy like being used beyond your human ability to join with God to do something supernatural.