How can we ensure we "call upon the LORD" in our daily lives? The Verse at a Glance “The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth.” (Psalm 145:18) Why Calling Matters • Scripture presents calling on the LORD as an ongoing, living relationship rather than a one-time event. • God’s nearness is promised; our part is sincere, truth-filled calling. • Consistent calling deepens dependence, guards against self-reliance, and anchors us in His presence. Practical Steps to Call Upon the LORD Daily 1. Establish Daily Set Times • Morning: Begin with thanksgiving (Psalm 92:1-2). • Midday: Brief check-ins—“arrow prayers” that refocus on His sovereignty (Nehemiah 2:4-5). • Evening: Reflect and recount His faithfulness (Psalm 63:6-7). 2. Engage Scripture Prayerfully • Read aloud a short passage, then turn its truths into petitions. • Example: After reading Psalm 23, pray, “Shepherd, lead me beside still waters in today’s meeting.” 3. Speak Truth, Not Mere Routine • “Call … in truth” means honesty about sin, fears, and motives (Psalm 139:23-24). • Confession keeps the line clear (1 John 1:9). 4. Incorporate Worship in Ordinary Moments • Sing or play worship music during commutes or chores. • Praising His character invites His nearness (Psalm 22:3). 5. Memorize Key “Call” Verses • Keep verses in view—phone wallpaper, sticky notes, lock screen. • Jeremiah 33:3, Psalm 50:15, Romans 10:13 become instant prompts. 6. Pray with Others • Family table, small groups, phone calls. • Mutual agreement amplifies faith (Matthew 18:19-20). 7. Respond Immediately to the Spirit’s Nudge • When a need, anxiety, or joy surfaces, pause and verbalize it to God. • Cultivates the habit of “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Common Obstacles and Biblical Remedies • Distraction → “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Schedule device-free margins. • Doubt → Recall answered prayers; journal testimonies (Psalm 77:11-12). • Guilt → Receive the cleansing promised in Christ (Hebrews 10:22). • Busyness → Prioritize like Mary over Martha (Luke 10:41-42). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • “Call to Me, and I will answer and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3) • “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor Me.” (Psalm 50:15) • “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13) The promise is sure: when we deliberately, truthfully, and constantly call upon the LORD, He draws near, answers, and transforms each ordinary day into a living conversation with Him. |
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