Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Boldly Be

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There are many well-known poets who spoke of boldness. “Fortune befriends the bold,” said Emily Dickinson; “Boldness be my friend,” said William Shakespeare; “Freedom lies in being bold,” said Robert Frost. Many consider these poets bold with their words. Perhaps boldness is what made them famous and their words so impactful and lasting.

So he went in and out among them at Jerusalem, preaching boldly in the name of the Lord.

Acts 9:28

Today’s verse tells of Paul, who also spoke and acted boldly. Paul, formerly Saul, was a fierce persecutor of Christians until he met Jesus on the road to Damascus and had a life-changing experience. His encounter eventually resulted in him writing 14 letters that became part of the Bible and going on at least five missionary journeys where he led countless others to Christ.

Have you had an encounter with Jesus that has changed you? Do you want your words about Christ to make a difference? Speak and act boldly as God’s Word commands, and pray for boldness as did Paul and the other disciples. Then you’ll be impactful and lasting in your family, community and nation – to His glory!

Recommended Reading: Acts 4:1-4, 8-13

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Purpose Precedence

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The United States military is known for teaching young and often stubborn men and women to obey orders without question. The Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines are renowned for their development of strong individuals who will follow commands in the heat of battle to defend their country.

Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”

Luke 1:38

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was not an Army soldier in training, but her adherence to follow God’s will in doing the impossible could rival the spirit of even the toughest of the Special Forces. When the angel told Mary a virgin birth was possible with God, Mary didn’t question or say, “I can’t do this.” She simply told the Lord she was His vessel and to “let it be.”

When God reveals His will to you, how often do you follow without question? May all Christians in this nation be as obedient and willing as the mother of Jesus. When you allow His purposes precedence over your own, great things are accomplished. Ask God to develop a willing spirit within you. Pray, too, for America’s leaders to recognize the will of God and develop a desire to follow Him.

Recommended Reading: Luke 1:46-55

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Purpose Precedence

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The United States military is known for teaching young and often stubborn men and women to obey orders without question. The Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines are renowned for their development of strong individuals who will follow commands in the heat of battle to defend their country.

Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”

Luke 1:38

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was not an Army soldier in training, but her adherence to follow God’s will in doing the impossible could rival the spirit of even the toughest of the Special Forces. When the angel told Mary a virgin birth was possible with God, Mary didn’t question or say, “I can’t do this.” She simply told the Lord she was His vessel and to “let it be.”

When God reveals His will to you, how often do you follow without question? May all Christians in this nation be as obedient and willing as the mother of Jesus. When you allow His purposes precedence over your own, great things are accomplished. Ask God to develop a willing spirit within you. Pray, too, for America’s leaders to recognize the will of God and develop a desire to follow Him.

Recommended Reading: Luke 1:46-55

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Godly Choices

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The movie Jurassic World recently brought in over $511 million in its opening weekend, becoming the highest grossing global film of all time. Yet it is the film’s lead actor, Chris Pratt, who goes against Hollywood’s standards and demonstrates eternal qualities. Pratt values his faith in God and his family more than his fame and wealth. Chris and his wife Anna have been married for six years. When their son Jack was born premature, they spent weeks praying at the baby’s side. “We were scared for a long time. We prayed a lot,” said Pratt. “It restored my faith in God; not that it needed to be restored, but it really defined it.”
When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife.
Matthew 1:24
Another man, Joseph of Nazareth, also lived out his faith through his actions. God’s choice for Jesus’ earthly father was a man of integrity and courage. When God sent an angel to verify Mary‘s story, Joseph willingly obeyed in spite of the public humiliation he would face.
As you seek the Lord for daily decisions, pray and listen carefully to the Holy Spirit. Make choices that honor God. Pray also that America’s leaders will do the same.
Recommended Reading: Proverbs 3:1-10

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Presidential Paryer Team – C.P. True Friends

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C.S. Lewis once said true friends face in the same direction, toward common projects, interests and goals. Paul’s letters show that he considered Timothy his son in the Lord (Philippians 2:22). They lived C. S. Lewis’s definition of true friends as they spread the gospel.
The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.
I Timothy 1:5
In his first letter to Timothy, Paul established their goal as partners as being a display of love from a pure heart that desires the best for the person to whom they were ministering. Loving with a good conscience meant serving with integrity as a person that could be relied upon to do the right thing. Loving from a sincere faith meant being committed to trusting Jesus and doing God’s will.
Who are the people you serve in your life? Is your aim to love from a pure heart, good conscience and sincere faith? Be a true friend. Next, pray about what’s best for the nation, with a right attitude, while trusting God. Then intercede for the nation’s leaders to be more concerned about the welfare of the citizens of the nation rather than their own selfish ambitions.
Recommended Reading: Hebrews 10:19-25

Campus Crusade for Christ, Presidential Prayer Team, Ravi Zacharias, Streams in the Desert

Charles Stanley – God Is in Control

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1 Corinthians 13:12
It is 100 percent true that God is good and that He’s in control. These facts, however, do not prevent bad things from happening. Though it’s within the Lord’s power to give everyone a perfect existence, that wouldn’t be in our best interest. Trials and suffering often drive people to the Father. And for those of us who are already His followers, God uses harsh circumstances to mature our faith and conform us to the image of His Son. To be made perfect and pleasing to our Father is indeed beneficial.
In His omniscience and wisdom, God will allow disaster and evil to touch our lives so we can grow from the experience. Growth, whether in compassion, trust, or knowledge, is good. If we could peek behind the scenes of our life, we’d see the Lord sovereignly working toward His ultimate purpose for us.
Romans 8:28 affirms this: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” On occasion, we see immediate positive results from trials. But other times, we must wait months or years (or until we reach heaven) to fully understand what God was doing in those difficult circumstances.
Suffering and evil are inevitable parts of a fallen world. But we have assurance that God is in control of the universe, including the tiny corner we occupy. When He permits bad things to happen, we can be sure that He will continue to provide comfort and guidance as He shapes us into the people He wants us to be.
Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 28-30

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Presidential Paryer Team; J.R. – Colossal Connection

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Yes, it was fake…but it was still an intimidating sight. Fans of professional wrestling in 1989 were in awe when two of the sport’s most popular figures formed a tag team. First there was Tonga Fifita, a 275-pound, six-foot-tall behemoth. If you squared off against him, you might be relieved to see him leave the ring – until you saw his partner: Andre the Giant, at a gargantuan seven foot, five inches and 520 pounds. Together they were known as the “Colossal Connection.”
I will be with your mouth and with his mouth and will teach you both what to do.
Exodus 4:15
Moses and Aaron were the original biblical “tag team” duo who together saved the nation of Israel. God called Moses to lead the people, but there was a problem: Moses had a speech impediment. Interestingly, God could’ve corrected that issue with a simple and instantaneous divine command, but instead He chose to allow Aaron to speak for Moses.
As you pray for America today, recognize that God’s design is for you to work together with other believers. Seek His direction about another Christian with whom you can partner to form a prayer “colossal connection” of a higher order!
Recommended Reading: Philippians 2:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Faithful

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Jacob loved Rachel from the moment he saw her. He worked seven years to have her hand in marriage and “they seemed to him but a few days because of the love he had for her.” (Genesis 29:20) The morning after his marriage, though, he woke to discover that Laban had deceived him and Leah, not Rachel, was his wife. Undeterred, Jacob also took Rachel as his wife in return for another seven years of labor. To Jacob’s death, she was the love of his life.

This time I will praise the Lord.

Genesis 29:35

Leah, on the other hand, was hated – possibly by both Jacob and Rachel. Yet she lived her life faithful to God and to her husband. She took her strength from the Lord and He gave her six of the 12 sons of Jacob…the future 12 tribes of Israel. From Judah came the Messianic line from which Jesus was born, and from Levi came the priesthood. Leah praised God for each one. She was faithful and the Lord blessed her.

God works all things for good…even in the most difficult situations (Romans 8:28). Take heart, dear one. Give thanks and praise to Him in every circumstance. Intercede for the leaders of this nation that they may be faithful to God in the most challenging times.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:12-24

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Victorious Living

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John F. Kennedy is known as one of America’s most beloved presidents. His assassination on November 22, 1963 rocked the nation, and none felt it more than the man who would step into his shoes – Lyndon B. Johnson. It’s not easy to follow someone with such greatness.

There was not a word of all that Moses commanded that Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel.

Joshua 8:35

Joshua felt the same pressure. Right before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Moses stepped down as leader and Joshua took his place. While the task seemed insurmountable, the young leader knew the key to success was to draw close to God. In today’s passage, he reads the commandments to the people of Israel and models a key way to know the Lord. Through obeying God’s commands, Joshua was able to claim one victory after another as Israel’s new leader.

Are you following closely to God’s commands in your own life? Ask the Lord to help you be obedient – and pray for that same honoring of the Bible’s teachings for the president and his cabinet. Then take some time today, and every day, to spend in His Word…and live with victory in your life.

Recommended Reading: Joshua 8:30-35

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Just Keep Asking

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Oswald Chambers is quoted as saying “Men ought to always pray and not lose heart” but he was repeating Jesus in Luke 18:1 when teaching His disciples with the parable of the persistent widow to always keep praying.

So it went on year by year. As often as she went up to the house of the Lord, she used to provoke her.

I Samuel 1:7

Hannah is another example of a woman who prayed persistently. She desperately wanted a child, but couldn’t have one. Every year, she went with her husband Elkanah to sacrifice at the temple and pray for a son. In today’s verse, you find that Elkanah’s other wife Peninnah, who had several children, taunted Hannah because she was barren. Despite her sorrow and hurt, Hannah kept praying. Eventually, she was given Samuel, who became a prophet, along with two more sons and two more daughters.

Hannah kept asking because she believed God would answer. Is there something you’ve prayed for in the past but have stopped because you lost hope or others ridiculed you? Don’t give up. Just keep asking – starting today. Pray, too, for Christians to stay persistent in their intercessions for the nation and its leaders.

Recommended Reading: Luke 11:1-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Labels

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British author Frances Trollope observed in her book Domestic Manners of the Americans that the greatest difference between the English and American populations is “want of refinement.” Americans of the nineteenth century were incensed. But by the end of that century the label of the “The Ugly American,” vulgar and loud, was born.

I make a decree, that in all my royal dominion people are to tremble and fear before the God of Daniel.

Daniel 6:26

In the days of King Darius, a Babylonian pagan ruler, the King formed impressions of the Jewish God, Jehovah, based on observing his servant Daniel. “He is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues; he works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions.” (Daniel 6:26-27)

Today, don’t worry about what people say about your faith. Emulate Daniel, living humbly and openly, letting God take care of the rest. Likewise, pray for the men and women of faith walking among America’s leaders to be Daniel-like examples – and that many may see past Christian stereotypes to the knowledge of a compassionate Almighty God.

Recommended Reading: Micah 6:1, 6-9

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Labels

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British author Frances Trollope observed in her book Domestic Manners of the Americans that the greatest difference between the English and American populations is “want of refinement.” Americans of the nineteenth century were incensed. But by the end of that century the label of the “The Ugly American,” vulgar and loud, was born.

I make a decree, that in all my royal dominion people are to tremble and fear before the God of Daniel.

Daniel 6:26

In the days of King Darius, a Babylonian pagan ruler, the King formed impressions of the Jewish God, Jehovah, based on observing his servant Daniel. “He is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues; he works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions.” (Daniel 6:26-27)

Today, don’t worry about what people say about your faith. Emulate Daniel, living humbly and openly, letting God take care of the rest. Likewise, pray for the men and women of faith walking among America’s leaders to be Daniel-like examples – and that many may see past Christian stereotypes to the knowledge of a compassionate Almighty God.

Recommended Reading: Micah 6:1, 6-9

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Practical and Confident

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In the book of James, the author identifies himself only as “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” (James 1:1) Yet most scholars agree that James was also Jesus’ brother. Not a follower of Christ until after the resurrection, James became a pillar of the early church. Because of its practical nature, Chuck Swindoll says the book of James “looks a bit like the Old Testament book of Proverbs dressed up in New Testament clothes.”

Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

James 1:22

It makes sense that James would deeply believe in doing what the Word says in practical ways. All of his life he watched his brother Jesus do just that. James’ teachings echo the teachings of Jesus: “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word,” (John 14:23); and of Paul: “You then who teach others, do you not teach yourself?” (Romans 2:21)

Do you believe God answers prayer? Are you actually praying – and not doubting? Build up your faith by reading the Scripture, hanging out with believers, and seeking out written or spoken testimonies of answered prayer. Then pray for this country…confident that God hears and answers your prayers.

Recommended Reading: John 14:12-24

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; – J.R. -Why Me, Lord?

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If you are given to hypochondriasis or “illness anxiety disorder,” you surely would not want to be transported back to biblical times. First, they had a host of frightening diseases and illnesses which, in modern times, have been eradicated. Second, they had almost no understanding of the causes; germs and bacteria, for example, were unknown in the ancient world. And third, the treatments – administered by priests, magicians and quacks – were at best useless and more often barbaric.

Why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

Luke 1:43

You especially would not want to be an expectant mother in biblical times. Pregnancy and childbirth represented the pinnacle of risk…from infection, bleeding, high blood pressure or other complications. Elisabeth, pregnant with the baby who would become John the Baptist, asked, “Why Me, Lord?” But it wasn’t a complaint. She wondered why she could be so favored. She was overjoyed to be part of the fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.

What’s troubling you today? A personal need, a family difficulty, or the disgraceful state of America? Whatever it may be, is there an opportunity in it for you to be a blessing? As you pray today, find the answer! “Why me, Lord?”

Recommended Reading: Psalm 40:1-8

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – “S” Words

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The “S’s” have it! Sin, servitude, supplication, salvation, security, and sin again. That is the story of the people of Israel in the time of the judges. They “did what was evil in the sight of the Lord” and were overpowered by their enemies because of their sin. (Judges 4:1) After years of oppression, they cried out to God for help. In His mercy, the Lord raised up judges who would save the people and allow peace for some years. Once the judge died, the people turned back to sin.

They forgot the Lord their God.

Judges 3:7

Deborah was a wife, a prophet chosen by God, Israel’s fourth judge and a leader in battle – all but the first very unusual for a woman. At a time when men faltered, she was faithful to God and advised His people, inspiring them to hope in their true deliverer. And, as He often did, the Lord caused the enemy to be defeated.

You are called to be strong in your faith, to seek God in times of trouble, and to know He will save you and keep you secure. But He expects you to be faithful to Him. Encourage those around you. Intercede for this nation – that it not give in to sin but serve God with courage and faithfulness.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 62:5-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; – Take the Time

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In 1789, George Washington delivered the “Thanksgiving Proclamation.” In addition to giving thanks, the day was set aside “that we may unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions.” Washington was a national leader who understood the power of prayer. Perhaps this was because of another leader who passionately interceded for his people.

I lay prostrate before the Lord these forty days and forty nights because the Lord had said he would destroy you.

Deuteronomy 9:25

In Deuteronomy 9, the Israelites were about to cross the Jordan to fight for their promised land. Moses’ speech encouraged them that God would fight on their behalf, but also reminded them of how he interceded with God when they had sinned against Him. He stood in-between God and the Israelites to plead their case and defend them.

Moses was a leader who interceded regularly for others – and God listened. His prayers made a difference for the Israelites. When was the last time you truly interceded with God for someone or for the nation? Today, take the time, as much as is needed, to earnestly pray…and if you don’t know where or how to start, ask God for help (Romans 8:26).

Recommended Reading: I Timothy 2:1-8

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Moved to Serve

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“Let me know if I can do anything for you.” This phrase is often tossed out by well-meaning people who care about others. But those truly burdened to help don’t say, “Let me know…” They say, “I’m bringing dinner. What time should I come?” Or “I’d like to babysit. What night do you want to go out with your spouse?”

“If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.”

Acts 16:15

In Acts, the author tells of Lydia’s conversion. When she and her family were baptized, Lydia insisted the apostle Paul and his companions come home with her. Today’s passage in The Message version says, “[Lydia] wouldn’t take no for an answer.” Lydia’s generosity for the servants of God teaches modern-day Christians how to meet needs as well.

Lydia was moved to hospitality. She didn’t say, “Let me know…” She insisted on the missionaries’ attendance. Do you meet the needs of others with as much passion as Lydia? Ask God to point out needs you can meet for others. Pray for servant hearts in Christians who are national leaders – that their service would reflect Christ on those who don’t know Him.

Recommended Reading: Acts 16:10-15

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Amazing Plans

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When America’s forefathers were anticipating the future of their fledgling nation, they could not possibly have imagined the cultural and economic complexities challenging America today. John Adams, though, acknowledged the source and power behind their vision of the future: “the right to freedom, being the gift of God Almighty, is not in the power of Man to alienate.”

He said to them, “Hear this dream that I have dreamed.”

Genesis 37:6

In the Bible, God had big plans for a man named Joseph. He gave him dreams about a place of service and honor being prepared specifically for him. Joseph’s aspirations to fulfill God’s plan made him a target for resentment. His adversaries thought they could derail both his dreams and God’s purposes by contriving to have Joseph imprisoned and enslaved. They succeeded in putting Joseph in prison – but ultimately his enemy’s antics merely served to prepare Joseph for God’s amazing plans.

Mortal man is not the author and finisher of your story…or of America’s future. Regardless of what you see happening in the news today, be assured that no evil can upend God’s purposes and plans. Be confident and committed to pray for the nation’s leaders today.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 1:3-14

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Pass the Ball of Faith

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Stephen Curry likes to point people to “the Man who died for our sins on the cross.” Curry was named the National Basketball Association 2015 Most Valuable Player and led the Golden State Warriors to the championship. Yet his eyes are on heavenly prizes. Curry credits his parents for teaching him that studying for school and washing the dishes were more important than basketball. Most of all, they taught God’s Word and modeled their faith at home every day. As a result, Curry was 13 when he accepted Jesus as his Savior.

A faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice.

II Timothy 1:5

“It was a big decision that my parents couldn’t make for me,” said the superstar point guard. “I’m His humble servant right now and I can’t say enough how important my faith is to who I am and how I play the game.”

In the Bible, it was the influence of Timothy’s mother and grandmother that led him to Jesus Christ. So remember to pass the ball of faith through your words and actions to the children in your life. Pray that America’s leaders also see the importance of being godly examples to this nation’s future generation.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 78:1-8

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Powerful Promises

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The apostle Peter knew people that worshipped various gods. As he explained that Christians have power to live a righteous life in Christ, he differentiated it from the other beliefs of the day. “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2 Peter 1:16)

We ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.

II Peter 1:18

Peter himself saw the transfiguration of Christ and heard the Father say, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” (Matthew 17:5). Peter also experienced Jesus’ forgiveness in a dramatic way. After denying Jesus three times (Mark 14:66-72), the resurrected Christ gave him opportunity to renew his love three times (John 21:15-17).

Peter summed up the plight of a true spiritual seeker: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Spend time seeking the Lord. Ask and He’ll answer; seek and you’ll find; knock and it will be opened (Matthew 7:7) are powerful promises worth spending time on. Press in and pray for your concerns and the needs of this country.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 5:6-11