Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Ask and He Answers

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What a delight to get an invitation – whether it’s to a movie, a dinner party or a night out on the town. It means someone’s thinking of you and wants to spend time with you. Throughout the Scriptures, God sends you an invitation…to pray. He wants to spend time with you and He wants to give you the desires of your heart.

Ask rain from the Lord in the season of the spring rain, from the Lord who makes the storm clouds, and he will give them showers of rain.

Zechariah 10:1

But, of course, there are guidelines such as delighting in the Lord (Psalm 37:4), asking with right motives (James 4:2-3) and according to His will (Matthew 6:10). As you spend time with the Lord in prayer, He changes your “wanter.” As you read the Bible, you begin to want what the Heavenly Father wants.

Ask according to the desires He puts in your heart, confident that He will give them to you. Today’s verse in Zechariah was written with assurance. Ask and He will answer (Matthew 7:7 and John 14:13). Be persistent and do not give up as you pray for your country to turn wholeheartedly to Him.

Recommended Reading: Luke 18:1-8

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M – Sweetest Scent

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What is your favorite scent? Perhaps it’s a warm loaf of bread, a special cologne, a crisp fall day, or a freshly-bathed baby. The Lord also has a favorite scent. It is the sweet smell of your prayers!

And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel.

Revelation 8:4

In biblical days, incense was often burned as a sacrificial offering on the Tabernacle altar to serve as an aid in prayer. So the Bible describes prayers as incense that floats up to God like those offerings. Prayer is more than just a welcome aroma for Him; it gives the Lord great pleasure. Proverbs 15:29 says, “He hears the prayer of the righteous.” Yet not only is the sound of your voice something He awaits and treasures; the words from your heart are sweet to Him.

Spend some time each day just quietly listening to the Lord. Then allow the fragrance of your prayers to waft through to His throne room. Pray also that the sweet aroma of believer’s prayers would ascend all across this nation today as they turn their eyes toward Him on behalf of the country, its leaders, and especially the President of the United States.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 141:1-10

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Red Hot Prayers

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“Cold prayers court refusal…Heat your prayers red-hot…Plead the blood of Jesus! Plead like one who means to prevail – and then you shall prevail!” This quote by famous British preacher C. H. Spurgeon makes a point: prayers must be fervent to avail.

Then I turned my face to the Lord God, seeking him by prayer and pleas for mercy with fasting and sackcloth and ashes.

Daniel 9:3

In today’s scripture, Daniel is fervently praying to the Lord. While reading the book of the prophet Jeremiah, Daniel discovers the 70 years of captivity should be coming to a close. He also realizes certain prophecies are conditional, meaning God’s people must do their part by humbling themselves and repenting (Leviticus 26). Knowing this, Daniel earnestly focuses all his attention on the Lord, fasting and wearing sackcloth and ashes. First, he praises God and reminds Him of His covenant. Then he repents, accepting responsibility for the sins of the Jewish people. Last, he begs for forgiveness and mercy. God responded by sending the angel Gabriel to help Daniel understand Israel’s future.

Are you concerned about the country’s destiny? Are you fervently praying? Know God will answer. Pray today for the nation and its leaders to be humble, repent and seek Him wholeheartedly.

Recommended Reading: James 5:13-18

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Fervent and Persistent

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James, the brother of Jesus, must have had an unusual relationship with his sibling. He only came to believe that Jesus was the Son of God and the Messiah after Christ’s resurrection; familial ties changed to something much more. It is James who led the church in Jerusalem. It is James who tells you how great is the power of prayer.

The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

James 5:16

His example is Elijah. Because Israel’s sin of idolatry was so great, Elijah had prayed to God to hold the rain. For three-and-a-half years there was a drought. When Elijah believed there had been repentance in the land, he prayed fervently and persistently for God to send the rain. Elijah called upon Him to fulfill His promise. And He did.

How’s your prayer life? As a believer, prayer is your privilege. Know the Lord and His promises so you can have an intimate relationship with Him and can understand how to pray within His will. Give power to your prayers with sincere confession, unselfishness and dependence on His Word. Then intercede for the leaders of this nation that they would turn their hearts to God to know and to do what He wills.

Recommended Reading: I Kings 17:1-5; 18:1-2, 41-46

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Prayer Punishment

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Prayers offered up to idols change history – but they produce an unhappy and profoundly tragic history. Throughout the Old Testament are examples of God’s Chosen People, the Israelites, turning away from Him to worship idols. Ezekiel records the fearful message of a jealous God, punishing those who have rejected Him by allowing them to bear the natural consequences of their decisions. The Psalmist reflected this outcome when he wrote that “the sorrows of those who run after another god shall multiply.” (Psalm 16:4)

Go serve every one of you his idols, now and hereafter, if you will not listen to me; but my holy name you shall no more profane with your gifts and your idols.

Ezekiel 20:39

Today’s idols are different, but more pervasive than in any past generation. Americans have an endless array of substances, activities and behaviors to distract and addict, but just as Scripture warns, such worthless pursuits lead only to trouble and regret.

As you pray for your nation’s leaders today, ask God to attune their ears to His wisdom. History will be made one way or another, but America’s future blessings will be secured only as we pray to the One True God.

Recommended Reading: John 10:24-30

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Floods of Discord

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In areas where rains are frequent, many people install a sump pump in their basement. It is a small pump sitting inside a pit into which water flows from pipes along the foundation. The pump expels excess water through another pipe to an outside area away from the home, thus preventing flooding within.

I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people.

I Timothy 2:1

It may seem strange, but think of your prayers as the sump pump. Satan floods you with temptations, misinformation and half truths. He leads people away from God in deceitful ways bringing discord, distrust and chaos. But your prayers and intercessions for this nation, for its leaders and potential leaders, and for your family can force the devil’s lies away and bring peace to your life and to this country. Your prayers can bring revival to the values and principles upon which the United States was formed.

Do you understand the impact you can have? Mid-term elections are not far away. Be active in the election process. Commit yourself to prayer that God might put in place leaders whose desires will only be to please Him and to serve in a godly and dignified way. Then give thanks for all the Lord will do.

Recommended Reading: Romans 13:1-12

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Learning by Looking Back

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No one was ever elected president by promising a return to the “good old days.” Inaugural addresses tend to be overwhelmingly forward-looking. John F. Kennedy proclaimed that “the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans.” Richard Nixon said that his administration represented a “new beginning.” George H.W. Bush said a “new breeze blows” when he was elected, and Bill Clinton talked about vision and courage to “reinvent America.” Is it ever really helpful to dwell on the past?

Restore us to yourself, O Lord, that we may be restored! Renew our days as of old—

Lamentations 5:21

The answer is yes. The writer of Lamentations – likely the prophet Jeremiah – found it fruitful to look back and examine what had gone wrong in his nation. After King Nebuchadnezzar crushed the Kingdom of Judah, he exiled her citizens to Babylon. Now, as Jerusalem lay in ruins, the Jews were remembering the “good old days,” and they realized those days were good because they had walked with the Lord, followed His Will, and enjoyed His protection.

Will America soon be in ruins, its citizens remembering better times? Today, pray that your leaders will understand the key to the future are these words: “Restore us to yourself, O Lord.”

Recommended Reading: Jeremiah 2:1-9

 

Presidential Prayer Team C.P. – Even More

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The speed of light is 186,000 miles per second. Just think: God hears you even faster than that! And consider His power. Individuals can make a difference, and unified groups can accomplish great things, but God can do even more.

Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may speed ahead and be honored, as happened among you.

II Thessalonians 3:1

Paul knew the power of prayer. He saw it in Thessalonica. “We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers,” and “your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything.” (I Thessalonians 1:2, 8) He solicited their prayers to speed along the gospel. Paul’s success in Macedonia and Achaia was due largely to their prayers and actions. “For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.” (I Thessalonians 1:9)

Spending time in prayer can accomplish more than what man can do in a lifetime on his own. Pray for this nation…that the gospel will be preached, the lost saved, and that its leaders and citizens will grow closer to God and do the work He calls them to do.

Recommended Reading: John 15:1-17

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Worth the Price

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John DiFazio is a 62-year-old veteran who survived the Vietnam War but has had to wage an ongoing battle with Hepatitis C. Now two tiny pills are on the market and reported to beat his disease. Unfortunately, the treatment costs roughly $150,000 a dose. The high cost has left many questioning whether the cure is worth the price.

Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears.

Isaiah 38:5

Hezekiah is portrayed in the Bible as a good king and friend of Israel. However, in the prime of his life he is laid low by illness and the prophet Isaiah, directed by God, tells him he is going to die. In response, King Hezekiah takes up an intense conversation with the Lord through prayer. Soon God sends Isaiah to him again – but this time with the good news that his prayers have been heard and he will recover. In addition, God delivers Hezekiah’s army from their enemy by His own hand.

As you pray for America today, remember God is listening. Acknowledge His sovereign power and holiness, and pray for the nation’s leaders to do likewise. God’s treatment for America will definitely be worth the price.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 36:5-12

 

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – All Night Long

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Prayer was such a crucial practice in the ministry of Jesus and His disciples. At times, Christ was even known to pray all night as He continually sought the Father’s direction throughout His time on Earth. The apostle Paul also considered prayer essential and he called the Colossians to give themselves energetically to ongoing and regular prayer. Paul also earnestly asked others to pray that he would be effective in ministry.

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.

Colossians 4:2

People all around you are struggling in so many areas: financial, relational, physical and emotional. Yet God has entrusted you with other people so your life can be a blessing to them. The greatest way to do that is through steadfast prayer. Before you communicate to those around you, consider interceding for them and asking for God’s wisdom. Be willing to pray all night if necessary. Listen carefully to what He tells you to do or say.

Remember also to faithfully intercede for this nation’s leaders. Your prayers can have a significant impact on their personal and professional thoughts and actions, today and for the future.

Recommended Reading: I Timothy 2:1-8

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Praying People

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Throughout history, people have tried to get rid of the living God by getting rid of His followers. In fifth century BC Persia, Haman was a particularly arrogant and evil government official who took up the quest. Like others before him, however, he underestimated the power of prayer.

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

Esther 4:14

God placed two praying people in Haman’s world: Mordecai, a brave and politically savvy man; and Esther, his beautiful orphaned niece. When faced with Haman’s overpowering plot for evil, Mordecai and Esther both fell on their knees before God. Mordecai’s prayer went something like this: Lord, King and ruler, everything is in your power, and there is no one, even Haman, able to oppose you when it is your will to save us. Esther’s prayer: My Lord, you alone are our King, save us from the power of the wicked and deliver me from fear.

As you read the news today, are you concerned over the nation’s distaste for what is holy and good? Consider that God has placed you, like Mordecai and Esther, in this specific time to pray for America. Take courage in a powerful God…and know those setting themselves up to destroy His people will eventually fail.

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 41:8-13

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Start a Band

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King Solomon said, “Two are better than one.” Together, they can complete more work, watch each other’s backs and keep each other warm. “For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” (Ecclesiastes 4:10) Indeed, friends are a gift.

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.

Philippians 1:3

Paul recognized that gift. In his letter to his Philippian friends, he thanks God every time he thinks of them. His memories make him joyful. Working together for the kingdom of God is rewarding and creates lasting bonds. There are Christians in every city of every state in America. While from many different denominations, together you share a common bond in Christ; yet so often believers argue over small stuff instead of praising God and thanking Him for fellow workers.

What if every Christian prayed today and thanked God for all of His followers? Lift one another up instead of tearing down. Pray that “he who began a good work in [each of] you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6) Ask God to help you band together and lift His name above all other names so that those in political office will bow down and worship Him.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:1-11

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Pray First

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The news was disheartening. Nehemiah came back to Jerusalem to a small remnant of Jews who had survived the exile. The walls of the city had been broken down and fire had destroyed its gates. There was a job to be done. But progress was slow because the people were feeble and the enemies were many.

And we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night.

Nehemiah 4:9

Even under these circumstances, they did not quit. Understand the way they prioritized their task: they prayed, they set a guard and they worked. As one commentary described it, “When…any man of God discovers that God’s work and his work are one and the same thing, the aspect of affairs is changed. The contest is then spiritual. The forces arrayed are light and darkness, truth and error, and God and the devil…Prayer first, then work, in the assurance that the prayer will be answered and the work successful.” Nehemiah and the remnant succeeded.

Let it be the same for you. Study God’s Word to know Him better. Learn what He desires for you and others. Pray first and then work with confidence to accomplish your task. In like manner, may the leaders of this nation seek the Lord and do His will.

Recommended Reading: Nehemiah 4:7-14

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Unanswered or Unoffered?

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Suppose you are approached by an acquaintance who offers to serve as your mentor. “I want to take you under my wing,” he says, “but you must agree to spend three hours with me every day, including holidays and weekends.” This sounds like a big commitment, and you are also concerned because your prospective mentor has some character flaws. He is foul-mouthed, loves to talk about illicit sex, is prone to bursts of violence, and is constantly trying to sell you – for his own personal enrichment – things you really don’t want and certainly don’t need.

I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.

Ephesians 1:16

Meet your friend and mentor: the television set. A recent study found that Americans average 2.8 hours every day glued to the tube, many of them Christians who say, “I just can’t find the time to pray.”

The key to the apostle Paul’s success was his vigilant prayer life. And the key to America’s future is prayer. Will you allow the unimportant things of life to separate you from interceding faithfully and ceaselessly on behalf of your nation and your neighbors today? “The great tragedy of life,” said the famous minister F.B. Meyer, “is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer.”

Recommended Reading: Colossians 4:2-6

Presidential Prayer Team – C.H. – No Turning Back

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According to a recent study, an estimated two-thirds of American prisoners were arrested for a new crime within three years of prison release, while three-quarters were arrested within five years. Recidivism, the act of a person repeating a crime or undesirable behavior, is a real problem in the United States today.
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1
While recidivism may currently be a buzzword in the justice system, it’s not a new problem. Paul speaks of it in today’s key verse. He refers to the old behavior as a yoke of slavery. “Jesus answered them, ‘Everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.’” (John 8:34) Romans 3:23 says “all have sinned.” So if everyone sins and is, therefore, a slave to it, where’s the freedom? Today’s verse says freedom comes from Christ. “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
From America’s past to its present, there’s a pattern of unrighteous behavior, but this nation can have freedom in Jesus. Rise up, oh Christian! Rise up and pray for freedom from bondage. Ask God to break the chains holding Americans and its leaders in the slavery of sin.
Recommended Reading: John 8:31-38

Presidental Prayer team – C.H. – No Turning Back

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According to a recent study, an estimated two-thirds of American prisoners were arrested for a new crime within three years of prison release, while three-quarters were arrested within five years. Recidivism, the act of a person repeating a crime or undesirable behavior, is a real problem in the United States today.
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1
While recidivism may currently be a buzzword in the justice system, it’s not a new problem. Paul speaks of it in today’s key verse. He refers to the old behavior as a yoke of slavery. “Jesus answered them, ‘Everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.’” (John 8:34) Romans 3:23 says “all have sinned.” So if everyone sins and is, therefore, a slave to it, where’s the freedom? Today’s verse says freedom comes from Christ. “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
From America’s past to its present, there’s a pattern of unrighteous behavior, but this nation can have freedom in Jesus. Rise up, oh Christian! Rise up and pray for freedom from bondage. Ask God to break the chains holding Americans and its leaders in the slavery of sin.
Recommended Reading: John 8:31-38

Presidential Prayer Team; – A.W. – Eyes Wide Open

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In 2001, Michael W. Smith released the song Open the Eyes of My Heart. The song, originally written by Paul Baloche, was inspired by Ephesians 1:18 in which the apostle Paul prayed for the Ephesians to have the eyes of their heart enlightened.

Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

II Kings 6:17

Today’s scripture also involves a prayer for eyes to be opened. The King of Syria sent an army to kill Elisha because, as a prophet, he was able to direct the King of Israel how to fight against them. As they surrounded the city of Dothan where Elisha was staying, his servant became frightened about what they would do. Elisha knew they were protected and prayed for his servant to see that those for them were greater than those against them.

Do you feel surrounded by the enemy? Know with God on your side, you are protected and need not fear. Pray for God to open your eyes to see and understand His Word and power. Pray also for the country and its leaders to do the same.

Recommended Reading: John 9:30-39  Click to Read or Listen

Presidential Paryer Team – G.C. – Out to Sea

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Four-year-old Jemima Chambers was rescued recently off the Jersey shore after drifting half a mile out to sea on a body board. Her mother says she had a false sense of security while watching over Jemima because everyone was just paddling around in shallow water. But when she checked again, her daughter was a speck in the distance. Rescuers jumped on a jet ski and approached the little girl, finding her relaxed and unaware she was in great danger.
You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.
II Corinthians 1:11
In II Corinthians, Paul exhorts his fellow Christians to pray for him and his mission to spread the gospel. As with little Jemima, Paul knows it’s easy to drift. Anyone might be pulled out into a sea of error without the watchful prayers of God’s people.
Today, pray for believers working in governmental leadership in Washington D.C. and in your community. Be a watcher in the water for those proclaiming the name of Christ on the public platform. Ask God to protect their character, keeping them safely close to His shore and away from the dangers of the deep.
Recommended Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7

Presidential Prayer Team;  C.H. – Praise Him, Praise Him

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A study from the Center for Disease Control shows 1.5 million women in the U.S. are infertile. Americans spend three to five billion dollars a year on this ancient problem. In the Bible, Sarah didn’t give birth until she was ninety. Jacob’s wife Rachel also struggled with the inability to conceive. Another biblical account of barrenness was Hannah’s.

And Hannah prayed and said, “My heart exults in the Lord; my horn is exalted in the Lord. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation.”

I Samuel 2:1

Her prayers for a child were so desperate, the priest Eli thought she was drunk. Hannah promised if God granted her wish, she would give the child back to Him in service. There’s a lesson in Hannah’s prayer after the birth of her son Samuel. First, she followed through with her promise to God and dedicated her son to the Lord. And, as today’s verse shows, she offers praise for an answered prayer.

Christians never hesitate to “take it to the Lord in prayer.” But have you praised Him lately for answering your requests? Take some time today just to thank God for all He has done, both in your life and in your nation. He is still in control.

Recommended Reading: I Samuel 2:1-11

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K.- Cloud of Darkness

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Today is a day of mourning. Designated by Congress and approved by the President, September 11 is a discretionary day of remembrance for the 2,977 people who died on this date in 2001 at the hands of men who wished only death and destruction for the United States. Their hatred of this country – its prosperity and its Judeo-Christian values and beliefs – caused them to wreak destruction upon this nation.

Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.

Romans 10:1

Hatred for Christians is not new. The apostle Paul talks in Romans about Israel’s unbelief in Jesus as Messiah; their zeal for the Lord did not lead them to the knowledge of His Son. In fact, instead of believing, the Jews sought to kill those who followed Christ. It was Paul’s desire that his own people would be saved by understanding God’s promises and believing in Jesus as their Savior.

Let your prayers be the same. Evil abounds when people go their own way. Hearts must turn to Christ for good to overcome. Only a people saved by God’s grace can impact others who despair and hate…whose understanding is clouded by Satan’s darkness. Remember those who are lost; desire and pray to God that they may be saved.

Recommended Reading: Romans 10:1-13