Clara

“I have attended prayer breakfasts crowded with politicians and dignitaries. Often prayer starts and finishes by thanking God that we are in a free country and then we ask Him to bless us with continued prosperity. In other words, we ask God not to disrupt the existing order, but to bless and prosper the status quo. There is little awe of God and a distinct absence of repentance. We seldom intercede our offenses against God or humankind, or cry out for those who feel the sting of poverty, the lash of injustice, or the pain of oppression. This is not kingdom prayer.”
― John Smed, Prayer Revolution: Rebuilding Church and City Through Prayer

“The Christian teaching on forgiveness and “turning the other cheek” created a community of peace-making, reconciliation, and bridge-building.”
― Timothy J. Keller, How to Reach the West Again: Six Essential Elements of a Missionary Encounter

“I call it the 80/20 principle. Go ahead in our own plans and 80 per- cent of our lives will be predictable and 20 percent unexpected. Wait on Jesus in prayer and 20 percent of our lives will be predictable and 80 percent will be infused with the surprising work of the Holy Spirit.”
― John Smed, Prayer Revolution: Rebuilding Church and City Through Prayer

“Reconciliation is the key to lasting and growing relationships with others. I think of my marriage. Caron and I have been together for over forty years and, through many bumps and bruises, our love has continually grown. The key is not compatibility or strength of character. The secret is reconciliation through forgiveness.”
― John Smed, Journey in Prayer: 7 Days of Praying with Jesus