How can we apply the principle of preparation from Numbers 23:2 in prayer? Setting the Scene: Numbers 23:2 “Balak did as Balaam had instructed, and Balak and Balaam offered a bull and a ram on each altar.” • Before Balaam attempted to speak, altars were built and sacrifices laid out. • The offerings did not manipulate God, yet they acknowledged His holiness and set a consecrated atmosphere for hearing His word. Why Preparation Matters in Prayer • Prayer is dialogue with the King; approaching casually diminishes His majesty (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2). • Preparation readies the heart, aligning desires with God’s will (Psalm 37:4-5). • A prepared spirit resists distraction and unbelief, fostering faith (Hebrews 11:6). Practical Steps to Prepare Our Hearts • Cleanse: “Draw near to God… cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts” (James 4:8). – Confess known sin. – Rest in Christ’s finished work (1 John 1:9; Hebrews 10:19-22). • Set Apart Time and Place: “When you pray, go into your inner room” (Matthew 6:6). – Silence devices. – Choose a consistent hour. • Bring an Offering of Praise: “Enter His gates with thanksgiving” (Psalm 100:4). – Speak specific thanks for recent mercies. – Sing or read a psalm aloud. • Engage Scripture First: – Read a passage; let God speak before you speak (Psalm 119:18). – Note truths or promises to shape petitions. • Order Requests: – Begin with God’s glory (Matthew 6:9-10). – Intercede for others, then personal needs. • Ready the Mind: “Prepare your minds for action, be sober-minded” (1 Peter 1:13). – Jot distractions on paper, set them aside. – Breathe and focus on God’s character. Old and New Testament Echoes of Preparation • Exodus 19:10-11 – Israel washes garments before meeting God. • 2 Chronicles 29:15-17 – Priests consecrate themselves before temple service. • Mark 1:35 – Jesus rises early to pray in a solitary place. • Acts 1:14 – The disciples devote themselves to prayer while waiting for Pentecost. Guardrails Against Empty Formalism • Preparation is not performance. Hearts must remain humble (Isaiah 66:2). • Ritual divorced from obedience grieves God (1 Samuel 15:22). • The sacrifice God accepts today is “a broken and contrite heart” (Psalm 51:17). The Fruit of Prepared Prayer • Greater awareness of God’s presence and voice (John 10:27). • Increased confidence that requests align with His will (1 John 5:14-15). • Strengthened faith, peace, and joy that overflow into daily living (Romans 15:13). |
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