Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Word Gets Around

August 3, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

There is a tradition in American towns in which the “key to the city” is presented to certain visitors. It usually involves a ceremony, a speech or two, an ornamental key of some sort, a local official like the mayor, and usually someone famous – a rock star, politician or other luminary. One thing you will likely never see is the “key to the city” being presented to a homeless person.

All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told to me.

Ruth 2:11

When Ruth travelled to Bethlehem with her family, she did so in the most inauspicious of circumstances. They were hungry and desperately looking for some place to live where they would not starve. And yet, without any help from a public relations assistant and certainly lacking an entourage, Ruth was quickly noticed and praised because of her character and faithfulness in serving her family.

America today is awash in empty sound bites and silly schemes. But you will stand tall when you live with rock-solid integrity and humbly serve others. Make that your mission today!

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Never Coincidence

August 2, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

If the wicked Haman had succeeded in his plan to annihilate the Jews in the days of Xerxes his king, the story of God’s saving work through Abraham’s descendants would never have happened. There would have been no fulfillment through Jesus Christ, no gospel and no Christian church. But God’s sovereign plans never fail. He uses His people to carry out His purposes.

Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?

Esther 4:14

Though His name is never mentioned once in the book of Esther, you can see God’s hand throughout. There are unexpected turns in events, but nothing is coincidence – the Lord is always in control. Even Haman’s wife began to see that the Jews were a protected people. Esther was chosen to be a part of their deliverance, and she did what she knew was right to do when it was time to do it.

Today, wicked men have power and authority around the world. God has placed you in a culture opposed to your values and your relationship with Him. Troubled about this nation, you must trust God even when He appears to be silent. Step out in faith and be bold when you are called to do right. Then rest in Him – knowing His plans are perfect.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – The God Who Sees

August 1, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

When crimes occur in today’s technological society, one of the first things the police search for is camera footage – whether traffic cameras, security cameras or cell phone video from passersby. There’s not much you can do that isn’t caught on camera.

The man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.

Genesis 3:8

Adam didn’t live in an age of cell phones and digital cameras, but he still got caught eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. The Creator of the Universe didn’t need security footage from the Garden of Eden to show Adam tasting the fruit from the forbidden tree. Through Adam’s experience, you comprehend the omnipresence of God. In today’s passage, Adam tried to disappear among the garden – but God was undeniably there.

The same is true where you are right now. El Roi, the God Who Sees, is there when no one is watching. He sees when you try to cover sin, but He also sees the hard work you think no one notices. Ask Him to help you recognize and revere His presence in your life and in the lives of your national leaders. Pray for Americans to live a life that doesn’t need to be hidden.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Light Show

July 31, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Stargazers headed outdoors recently to watch a spectacular occurrence. The planets Jupiter and Venus were so close in the sky they almost appeared to be a “double star.” The bright light given off by the two planets was a dazzling demonstration of God’s glory. Some scholars believe a planet alignment like this created the “Star of Bethlehem” that guided the wise men to the Christ child.

Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars!

Psalm 148:3

Whether God created one bright star or aligned the planets to herald the birth of His Son, no one really knows. But what is known is how all of creation freely displays God’s glory – even the planets and stars. You were created to exhibit His glory, too. All people have “gifts that differ according to the grace given to us” (Romans 12:6).

Are you fully using the gifts you were given? When you freely work in the area the Lord has blessed you, the resulting display is astounding. Pray for fellow Christians to use their gifts according to God’s purpose. Also ask the Lord to help America and its national leaders recognize the Creator in both the stars…and in their lives.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Conference Call Calamity

July 30, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

In an extraordinary and infamous 2013 conference call, the chief executive officer of mass media company AOL lost his temper…while 1,000 of his employees listened in astonishment. Two minutes into the call, Tim Armstrong became irritated when his creative director picked up a camera to video the meeting. “Abel, put that camera down right now! Abel, you’re fired. Out!” Sacking a key leader publicly and impulsively while the whole company listened clearly did nothing to improve employee morale. Armstrong later apologized, saying it was an “emotional response at the start of a difficult discussion dealing with many people’s careers and livelihood.”

The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Psalm 145:8

Short-tempered bosses are common because short-tempered people are common. But there is One who is “gracious and merciful…slow to anger.” Isn’t it wonderful to know that God will not react impulsively to your sins and shortcomings?

You may be saddled with guilt or discouragement – perhaps over personal or family situations. And America, with her plummeting moral trajectory, may seem like a lost cause. But God is patient, not willing that any should perish, and there is yet time for change and transformation. May it begin today as you pray!

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Loving Boldness

July 29, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

There was a time David hid in fear for his life from King Saul. In his prayer, he lamented that no one took notice, much less cared about him.

No refuge remains to me; no one cares for my soul.

Psalm 142:4

As you look up and down the streets where you live, how many of those folks do you even take notice of? Are there any you truly care about? Thankfully, in America today it is still possible to share what Jesus has done for you with people you meet. You know that God cares, and He has commissioned you to witness for Him. Why are Christians in the United States often reluctant to share? Some are fearful; others lazy. Yet to not speak up is disobedience, and Jesus said if you love Him, you will keep His commandments. Soul winners not only follow Christ, they abide in Him…and the time is coming when sharing His love will no longer be possible.

When praying today, think of specific people that need to hear His truth. Ask God to prepare their hearts in advance – and then share Christ with them with loving boldness. Then remember Christian men and women in government, and pray for doors of opportunity to open for them to witness.

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Then and Now

July 28, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The song Forever, written by Chris Tomlin, has been a favorite of worship leaders since its release in 2001. It’s been listed in the top 25 praise songs as reported by Christian Copyright Licensing International since 2003. The lyrics are based on Psalm 136. The Psalm is meant to be sung and praises God for all He has done.

And brought Israel out from among them, for his steadfast love endures forever.

Psalm 136:11

There are countless examples in the Old and New Testament of people singing and of God’s command to do so. Today’s verse focuses on when God brought Israel out of slavery in Egypt. Being set free was certainly something to sing about then and still is today – which is probably why Chris Tomlin has had so much success with the same words so many years after they were originally written.

God’s Word says He doesn’t change. He set His people free in Egypt over 2,000 years ago and He can set you free today. During this month of celebrating America’s freedom, set aside some time to celebrate your freedom in God and the life in the Spirit that He provides. As you do, pray for those who do not know Christ to find Him and be set free, too.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – In Appreciation

July 27, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

How often do you hear about people who live near a great landmark, such as the Statue of Liberty, and never go see it? People grow accustomed to the things around them and don’t stop to appreciate the gifts they’ve been given.

Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, who stand by night in the house of the Lord!

Psalm 134:1

So it is with reaction to the Lord. Americans have the freedom to worship God, yet how many of the nation’s churches are nearly empty each Sunday? Many people are not even aware of how wonderful and beautiful it is to give oneself over in complete worship of the Creator of the Universe. “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.” (Hebrews 12:28)

Spend time today worshipping Him in spirit and truth (John 4:24) and appreciating His gifts to you. Ask the Lord to move on His people to give Him honor and praise due His name. Pray for God to send a revival to this country and turn many hearts to Jesus – so they, too, may revel in the reality of His resurrection and bless the Lord!

Recommended Reading: Matthew 28:1-7, 16-20

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Not in Vain

July 26, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Alexander Hamilton, signer of the Constitution of the United States, was known for his efforts in securing ratification of the Constitution by the states. He did not take the credit, however. In 1787 he wrote, “For my own part, I sincerely esteem it a system which without the finger of God, never could have been suggested and agreed upon by such a diversity of interests.”

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.

Psalm 127:1

In context, today’s verse makes the same application…to your family, your occupation, or to the government of this nation. If God is not a part of your actions or decisions, the results of your labor are in vain. Likewise, the efforts of the nation’s leaders will fall woefully short if God’s direction is not sought or followed.

Certainly, if you are discouraged with rulings in this country, letters or phone calls to your representatives will help. But infinitely more powerful is prayer! A preacher during war time in the 1940s, E.C. Olsen, said, “I believe that our difficulties would soon be past if the godly people of this country would earnestly pray.” You cannot thwart the purposes of God, but He listened as Abraham prayed for Sodom, and He will listen to you.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Majestic and Unchanging

July 25, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

With 54 mountain peaks over 14,000 feet, one only has to drive through Colorado to appreciate the mountains. They are majestic, unmoving and formidable. Mountains can either be your greatest protection or, in inclement weather, your possible undoing.

As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore.

Psalm 125:2

Likewise is the Lord. He is majestic, worthy to be worshipped and praised. His love is steadfast and He is unchanging, the same yesterday, today and forever. Yet He is formidable. His righteousness and holiness is to be obeyed and respected. God is your greatest protection, your source of salvation, your origin of hope and strength. But for those who have not embraced Christ, He will be their undoing.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8) He loves you, protects you, and meets your needs; in fact, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Matthew 6:8) As you worship His goodness and majesty, remember to pray for the leaders and citizens of the United States of America to turn to Him for their salvation, strength and hope.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Unshakable

July 24, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Psalm 117 is the shortest in the book with only two verses, but it packs a spiritual message equally as well as the lengthy Psalm 119. It invites people everywhere to turn to God and join believers in praising Him, extolling His greatness and giving thanks for what He has done.

Great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.

Psalm 117:2

Israel was a worshipping people, not necessarily a missionary nation, but many foreigners came to know Israel’s God by the wonders He performed for them (Joshua 2:8-11). You, as a believer, have been designated to carry the light of the gospel to the whole world (Acts 13:46-47). If you hesitate, be reminded of the Lord’s mercies – He saved you by grace, not by any of your works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

God is faithful. His character cannot change, His promises never fail, and His Word is always true. Though your faith may be shaken by feelings within or circumstances without, your Father’s faithfulness to you is unshakable. He is reliable always and loving and faithful forever. In these unsettled times in America, know the freedom you have in God to be a light in an era of darkness. Pray that you may be faithful.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Grub Gratitude

July 23, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

In his entertaining memoir Roughing It, writer Mark Twain described the meal he received while traveling by stagecoach through the old west. “The station-keeper upended a disk of last week’s bread…and carved some slabs from it which were as good as Nicholson pavement, and tenderer. He sliced off a piece of bacon for each man, but only the experienced old hands made out to eat it, for it was condemned army bacon which the United States would not feed to its soldiers in the forts…then he poured for us a beverage which he called ‘Slum gullion,’ and it is hard to think he was not inspired when he named it. It really pretended to be tea, but there was too much dish-rag, and sand, and old bacon-rind in it to deceive the intelligent traveler.”

He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever.

Psalm 111:5

Though you may “say grace” before meals, it is easy to forget what a blessing it is to have plentiful and good food – a luxury far from certain in most of the world.

As you pray for America and celebrate your freedom today, take the time to express sincere and thoughtful gratitude to God for His generous and continuous provision in your life.

Recommended Reading: I Corinthians 10:23-33

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Outstanding Combination

July 22, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Have you noticed how the keepers of justice in America are losing favor with the public? Whether local magistrates, regional courts or even members of the nation’s highest, the Supreme Court, you mostly hear of derision…and not much in the way of praise. Even so, this nation’s system of justice is still considered the most equitable in the world.

Blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times!

Psalm 106:3

An outstanding combination of observing justice and doing righteousness simultaneously came from the relatives of the Christians massacred at the Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston last month. At the arraignment of the young perpetrator, they all expressed thankfulness in advance for knowing the justice he will receive at the hands of the state; but at the same time, they offered their forgiveness to him. Whether they can maintain that through their grief, only God knows. There is no doubt, though, that He will strengthen the victim’s families in the days to come.

Today, intercede for those whose lives are forever changed by one heinous act. Pray for the judges and justices who will eventually deal with the young perpetrator – and ask God to give wisdom to your members of Congress as they consider legislation that could grow out of that event.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Free to Praise

July 21, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

All around the world, people worship under the cover of darkness and use code names for God to discuss Him in public places. Christians have recently been tortured and even beheaded for refusing to denounce Jesus. But in America, you are free to worship your Creator.

I will sing of your love and justice; to you, Lord, I will sing praise.

Psalm 101:1

While Christianity has certainly come under some fire in this nation, you can hop in your car on any given Sunday and drive to one of many churches open for all. You have freedom to host Bible studies in your home or pray on your back patio. You are even free, as today’s verse suggests, to sing praises to the Lord.

While criticism for this country rolls off the tongues of many, remember you are free to worship God – and that is one of the greatest freedoms of all. Pray for Americans to recognize the gift this country really is and praise God for the freedom you have to worship. Then pray for your national leaders to uphold the laws that grant you that liberty – and to find the only One who can give them pure love and true justice.

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Free to Forgive

July 20, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Dylann Roof recently opened fire and killed nine people while they studied the Bible at a historic South Carolina church. Roof, who was captured after 14 hours on the run, walked into the courtroom dressed in a black-and-white prison uniform and flanked by two guards in body armor. Family members of the victims filed in, appearing composed as they stared at the defendant. However, they offered tearful words of forgiveness to the 21-year-old man charged with murdering their loved ones. “May God have mercy on your soul,” said Felicia Sanders, whose 26-year-old son Tywanza was the youngest person to die in the tragedy.

Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!

Psalm 97:12

People have a self-centered nature. Yet only Jesus Christ can free you to please the Lord instead of yourself. He fills you with His powerful love which does not demand its own way. As a result, you can forgive others even when they have wronged you.

Intercede for Roof and the victims’ families. Thank God for the incredible power of the Holy Spirit to change hearts and lives. Pray that the people and leaders of this nation truly experience the freedom that is found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Name It!

July 19, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

In her book One Thousand Gifts, Ann Voskamp undertakes naming God’s gifts in her life. At first you might think, “Yeah, yeah, I’ve done that positive thinking stuff.” However, “naming” God’s gifts is actually acknowledging His presence in the specific moments of your life where you discern His handiwork.

Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.

Psalm 91:14

Jacob, a man in the Old Testament, was one that recognized God’s presence. He named a place “Peniel” because he said he’d seen God face to face there. He came upon another place he interpreted as “God’s camp” and called it “Mahanaim.” There was a time Jacob believed he spoke with God and he named that place “Bethel.” Ironically, after all that naming, God renamed Jacob “Israel,” meaning “triumphant with God.”

Where do you see God at work today? Can you name it? Maybe you can identify the place of “Hope for America,” or specify the place of “Provision” for needs in your neighborhood. As you intentionally spotlight God’s work, you cannot help but see more of Him. And in naming His acts, you will find more than a thousand gifts of freedom and life to share with others.

Presidential Prayer Team C.P. ; – Freedom to Worship

July 18, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

American patriot Patrick Henry said, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For that reason alone, people of other faiths have been afforded freedom of worship here.”

Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us.

Psalm 90:17

Many Americans give God credit for the abundance the United States has known. As its laws become more in direct opposition to what the Bible teaches, they may believe this nation will see hard times. Consider this verse. “Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.” (Psalm 127:1) If difficult times are ahead for America, remember James’s insight that the test of your faith produces steadfastness, enabling you to be complete, lacking nothing (James 1:3-4).

Love God and yield yourself to His purposes…then, during times of trouble, trust Him to work all things for your good (Romans 8:28). As the people of this nation worship freely, pray for all to turn to the God of the Bible so that His love and favor may be established in their lives.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – New Beginnings

July 17, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The people of Israel had angered God with their disobedience and after 70 years of captivity in Babylon were released to return home. Even in their punishment, the Lord had been good to them. He raised up godly leaders, protected them and forgave them. He gave them a new start.

Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?

Psalm 85:6

Scottish preacher George H. Morrison said, “The victorious Christian life is a series of new beginnings,” and he is right. When you disobey God, it is sin and you fall from a right relationship with Him. You must make a new beginning by confessing your sin and turning back to Him. He will restore you. He will revive you through His love and faithfulness and will give you righteousness and peace so that you may rejoice.

The remnant nation of Israel prayed for new life and a new birth of freedom by thanking God for all He had done. They petitioned for restoration of their life in Him. The same should happen today for this country. Confess your sins and the sins of this nation. Petition the Lord to save this country. When you seek Him, be confident that He will give you peace and a fresh start.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Commitment in Crisis

July 16, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

For years Tim Lee had been, in his words, running from God. But on an abandoned road in Vietnam one morning, he stepped on a land mine. “My boot landed squarely on what felt like a miniature volcano. A deafening blast rammed through my body…in a weak, barely audible voice I prayed, ‘Oh no! God, not my legs…Lord…please…God get me home to Mom and Dad…I’ll do whatever you want me to do.’”

Then we shall not turn back from you; give us life, and we will call upon your name!

Psalm 80:18

Gravely injured, legs severed and bleeding profusely, Lee would survive – against the odds. And unlike many who utter heavenly commitments in a crisis only to forget them later, he made good on his promise to the Lord. After he returned from Vietnam, Lee surrendered his life to the ministry. Today, he still preaches around the world…from his wheelchair.

“Give us life,” the Psalmist begged God, “and we will call upon your name!” Wherever you’ve been, whatever you’ve done, this day is a one-time gift you have been given and will never have again. May you be a shining testimony to freedom in God as you serve Him and pray for the nation and its leaders.

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – What’s In a Name?

July 15, 2015 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Few American parents give thought to the meanings of names when deciding on monikers for their newborns. Trendiness, how it sounds, or paying tribute to a loved one is usually primary considerations. Biblical names, though, portray character traits or chart in advance the life of the child.

We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, for your name is near.

Psalm 75:1

God’s Hebrew names portray His character. Elohim (Creator), Adonai (Lord), Jehovah Jireh (Provider), Jehovah Shalom (Peace), Yahweh (Covenant Keeper), El Shaddai (Almighty), Jehovah Shammah (God Who is There), Jehovah Rapha (Healer), Jehovah Sabaoth (Provider) and Jehovah Nissi (My Banner). Jesus said God’s name is holy…hallowed…and today’s verse reminds you that His very name is near to you.

A good way to pray is to call God by one of His names, consistent with the focus of your prayer. Do you want Him to keep His promises? Call Him Yahweh. Or if you ask Him to show Himself to America’s s leaders, you may want to address Him as Adonai. Call on the name of the Lord, find power in His name, and proclaim His name – for ultimately those who call on the name of the Lord will find salvation.

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