ADVICE FOR THOSE WHO PRAY

I am copying a devotional I read yesterday because it is such good advice on the important topic of prayer.

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ADVISE!

"He who heeds counsel is wise."  Proverbs 12:15 NKJV.

When someone comes to you with a personal problem, ask them the following questions:

• What do you think caused the problem?
• What have you done about it?
• What Scriptures are you standing on?
• What do you think I might be able to do, that you haven't already done?

These questions will help you weed out those who genuinely want help from those who only want attention.  Some people see prayer as a magic wand; they think you can wave it over them and their problem will just go away, then they can go back to living their lives the way they please. 

Here's another situation.  Someone may say, "The doctor has suggested surgery.  What should I do?"  Unless you're a doctor, be very careful what you advise.  If God has spoken to someone and they have faith that He will heal them, don't throw cold water on them.  So what should you do?  Jesus said, "If two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven" Mathew 18:19 NKJV.  The real question is, are they standing on their faith or yours?  You can teach people God's Word, but you can't force them to come up to your level of faith until they're ready.  Sometimes people may be ready and all they're seeking is confirmation.  The Bible says:  "You have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things" 1 John 2:20 NKJV.  But unless God has let you "know". be careful what you advise!

(copied from The Word For You Today)