Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Open Heart

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Jim Morrison and The Doors – you probably know them as an icon of the sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll movement. What you likely don’t know is that the band’s name was taken from Aldous Huxley’s book The Doors of Perception. Huxley’s work proposed that if perception were cleansed, like cleaning a dirty window, a person could look into the other side of existence – eternity. On that philosophical foundation, an entire generation attempted to open their consciousness to find enlightenment: many times that meant taking psychedelic drugs. Today, we know those drugs are brain damaging rather than a doorway to heaven.

And there I will give her vineyards and make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.

Hosea 2:15

The Bible plainly tells those seeking enlightenment they need only to knock on the door of faith with a believing heart and the Creator of all things will gladly respond; no drugs or other ploys required. Yet many still fall for gimmicks and imitations of hope…because just asking and simply believing seems too easy.

Pray for America’s leadership today. Their jobs are ever more challenging, requiring insight and wisdom. Pray they will avoid dangerous imitations and humbly seek the real God of hope, opening the door of their heart to His ways.

Recommended Reading: II Chronicles 1:8-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Honoring Memorial Day

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Five Minutes to Midnight

Small notice was paid last month when Martyl Langsdorf died. In 1947, she designed the Doomsday Clock. In 1953, it stood just two ticks from midnight. By 1991, it retreated to 11:43pm. Today, the scientists who adjust the minute hand according to annual assessments of threats to humanity have set the clock at five minutes to midnight.

At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.

Philippians 2:10

News of wars, famines, earthquakes, spiritual deception, increases in wickedness point toward the imminent return of the Lord. Jesus and Paul both taught Christians to wait and be watchful, ready and sober, especially as you see the day of His return approaching. There will come a time when everyone will face God – when every knee will bow. Jesus’ absolute authority over Heaven and Earth will be acknowledged. There will be no exceptions.

Christian, are you living a watchful life, fully committed in anticipation of His return? Since you may be the only Bible someone else might read, does your witness give hope at five minutes to midnight? Pray for your own closer walk with your Savior, and intercede for your fellow citizens and your leaders that they will bow their knees…not in forced surrender, but in thanksgiving.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 2:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Train Up a Child

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The Barna Group estimates that about 60 percent of young people stop going to church. Those who remain do so because they have been trained with a biblical worldview, both parents attend church regularly and they teach by example. The numbers significantly drop when only one parent is faithful in spiritual matters.

For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.

Psalm 71:5

Often adults get too wrapped up in their own lives and leave most of the training to teachers, peers and media. When the disciples rebuked parents for bringing their infants to Jesus, the Lord scolded them by saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:16) Another well-known verse says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)

Today, ask God what you can do to help young people become disciples of Christ. Pray that He will send children and youth workers into this harvest field. Pray for the nation’s leaders and citizens (especially the younger ones) to find a church where they can learn, serve and grow in the Lord.

Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-13

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Defenses of Head and Heart

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What a joyous time for the believer! When Jesus comes a second time, the dead in Christ will rise and the living will join them to meet the Lord in the air (I Thessalonians 4:13-17). In the meantime, there is a vicious battle you must fight daily because your spiritual enemies are many, and mighty and malicious.

Put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.

I Thessalonians 5:8

Put on your spiritual breastplate and stay watchful and sober. Faith in the God who is always with you will guard your heart against the temptations of pride, passion and self-conceit. Fervent love for Him will thwart temptations that might turn you away from Him and to another. Remember your helmet – the lively hope of salvation – your defense of the head. Don’t let the pleasures of sin intoxicate you. Understand the great gift God’s mercy and grace bestow upon you. As one who puts your trust in Christ, be encouraged to live on the path of obedience to Him. Let nothing shake the hope of salvation from you.

He is Lord. Be grounded in His Word. Pray for this nation and its leaders…that none would miss out on the blessings of Jesus’ second coming.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Scripture Subversives

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It was denounced by politicians and religious leaders as a dangerous instrument that would only spread “subversive” ideas. But after Johannes Gutenberg began printing Bibles on his newly invented press, there was no stopping it. “It was one of the great moments in the history of Western civilization,” wrote historian William Manchester, “and printers throughout Christendom flocked to kindle their torches from it.” Soon, presses all over Europe were churning out Bibles, and the Word of God was available to the masses for the first time.

Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Romans 5:2

“Access” is something we take for granted today. Even a trip to the library has been rendered superfluous by modern technology. But it hasn’t always been that way and, in truth, how few of your neighbors and your nation’s leaders have yet obtained the access that is gained “by faith” to God’s grace. Don’t assume that easy access in any way diminishes your responsibility to share the Gospel with others. They still need to hear, from you, about the love of Christ.

As you pray today, ask God to make you a light unto the world – a spiritual torch from which others will be ignited.

Recommended Reading: Romans 10:14-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Broken Beauty

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Japanese ceramists have a word for it – kintsukuroi. It is the art of repairing pottery with gold or silver resinous lacquer and, with it, the philosophy that the piece is more beautiful for having been broken. There is no hiding the prior damage, no shame in the brokenness.

Hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Romans 5:5

Isaiah 64:8 reminds you that God is your potter, and you are the clay and the work of His hands. But suppose you fall and you break? Can He not pour the golden resin of His Holy Spirit into your life and mend the shattered parts? The poignancy inherent in the mended pot is not lost in your new, restored, beautifully-enhanced life.

Every week the news tells of more broken people across America, including people within government. Make it a matter of consistent prayer that they would acknowledge the Potter’s claims on their lives and then find salvation and hope in Christ. Finally, pray they would allow the Holy Spirit to flood their damaged lives with the golden love of the Father and fellow Christians, turning them into persons of beauty – all to His purpose and glory!

Recommended Reading: Romans 5:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team;  G.C.- Radical Leap

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Flying silently through the air, soaring on the breeze, at peace yet exhilarated – it’s the reason most hang gliders risk injury and canceled insurance. You might marvel at anyone who would strap on a pair of man-made wings and jump off anything without benefit of a motor or landing gear. Avid gliders believe the experience of flying outweighs the danger.

Since we have such a hope, we are very bold.

II Corinthians 3:12

The Bible is full of stories about a similar type of folk; people willing to make a radical leap of faith, putting their earthly life and eternal hope into the unseen hands of an invisible God. To an unbelieving world it seems ludicrous to jeopardize your most precious positions to follow the teachings of a Jewish carpenter. Without understanding, holy acts of forgiveness and compassion may even seem like unwise choices.

What circumstance has grounded your faith today? Are you afraid the experience of walking in God’s ways will not outweigh the cost? Pray for discouraged believers across America today, that as the world watches, a passionate people of faith will rise up with such boldness that many will come to know the glorious hope of Christ.

Recommended Reading: Acts 10:39-43

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Timeless Truth

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God does not change what He says based on opinion polls, focus groups or the latest fad. His Word is timeless. In fact, one study found that of 15,000 writings by America’s Founding Fathers included in newspaper articles, pamphlets, books, monographs and other documents, 94 percent of all quotes either directly or indirectly cited the Bible. As a result, the Founding Fathers produced miraculous results as the U.S Constitution is currently the oldest operating document of any government in the world.

Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word.

Psalm 119:74

Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35) God not only provides timeless truths for governing documents, but also for your life. As read the Bible each day, ask the Creator of the Universe to make His Word come alive to you. When you do, you will experience pure joy and incredible blessings that come from putting your hope in God’s unchanging promises.

Pray also that America’s leaders in the White House and on Capitol Hill personally seek His truth and strive to restore the godly foundation of this nation.

Recommended Reading: John 1:1-14

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Presidential Prayer Team;  C.H. – In His Will

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When loved ones die, emotions run high and feelings are often hurt over inheritances. Even the closest of families can squabble over who gets grandmother’s prized milk glass dishes. Usually, the discord is not a result of the dollar amount associated with an article; it’s about feeling valued.

The hope to which he has called you…the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.

Ephesians 1:18

Today’s verse refers to an inheritance as well. As Christians, you are “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.” (Romans 8:17) Your heritage includes priceless items such as hope, grace, peace, acceptance and eternal life, just to name a few. The good news is you don’t need to worry about sharing. God’s inheritance is never ending. No one has to fight over it, and there’s always enough for one more.

Consider where you’ve placed importance in your own family. Is it in an antique pocket watch or a godly legacy? Allow others to find joy in “the hope to which he has called you” by sharing Christ’s love. Ask God to help you focus on your Christian heritage and lead others to know Jesus. Pray, also, for your nation’s leaders to find their own inheritance in God’s kingdom – each of them are in His will.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 6:19-24

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Storing Treasure

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Only half of Americans prepare wills. Fewer people plan their own funerals, though it would spare their families of this added difficulty. Though death’s a difficult topic to consider, it’s important to be prepared. And how much more important is it to plan for eternity?

It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial.

Acts 23:6

John 3:16 guarantees eternal life if you believe in Jesus…and though good works will not save you, the Bible teaches they will affect your life in heaven. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19-20)

Though having a good life here on Earth is important, eternal things matter so much more. Research “reward” in a Bible concordance. List practical ways you can store up treasures in Heaven and begin doing them. Start by praying for this nation, particularly those you know who haven’t put their hope in Christ for their eternal future.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 14-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Only One Life

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ppt_seal01The brevity and vanity of life was a theme throughout the Psalms, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. King David, though impatient and distressed by life or his own actions, always came back to the same thing…his hope was in God.

And now, O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you.

Psalm 39:7

Can you say the same thing? Sometimes the burdens of providing for family, raising children or struggling with illness can cause you great worry or despair. But think of it. These Old Testament characters based their faith on the God who had not yet fully revealed Himself through the gospel of the Lord Jesus. David didn’t know the reality of that, yet his only hope was in the Lord and in His Word…the foundation that is real and lasting. How he lived became much more important than how long he lived.

Recognize your hope of life in light of Christ’s life, death and resurrection. Live with eternity’s values in view. However it is possible for you, spread the word to your neighbors and to the leaders of this nation. Life has meaning when your hope is in the Lord. As missionary C.T. Studd wrote: “Only one life, ‘twill soon be past; only what’s done for Christ will last.”

Recommended Reading: Psalm 116:1-9

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – White House Heartbreak

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You think modern presidential campaigns are rough? When Andrew Jackson ran for president almost 200 years ago, his opponents lowered the boom on him in ways that would shock even modern, Internet-numbed critics. Jackson was accused of being a murderer, an out-of-control gambler, and a traitor. They said his mother was a prostitute and his father a “mulatto” man. And his wife, Rachel, was labeled a bigamist. Becoming First Lady should have been a wonderful honor, but Rachel so hated Washington D.C. and all the rancor it produced that when Jackson was elected, a friend noted that her “energy subsided, her spirits drooped, and her health declined.” Rachel died of an apparent heart attack before her husband was inaugurated.

The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish.

Proverbs 10:28

Why should you place your hope in the eternal? Because when your expectations are on earthly things, they will perish…someone will be along shortly to kick you in the teeth and steal your joy. Far better to build your foundation on Jesus Christ – only then can your work survive.

Today, ask for wisdom to be focused on righteous things, and may others in America see your example and seek Him.

Recommended Reading: I Corinthians 3:10-15

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Life’s Map

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In attendance at the Guatemala City seminar were schoolteachers learning about building character into their students so they would become moral assets to society. Over several days, each was encouraged to draw a map of his or her life – a timeline onto which significant events would attach. For many, tragic happenings as well as joyful ones found their spot on their life’s map. Then they were asked, “When did you see God at work?”

Make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.

I Peter 3:15

Perhaps you’ve taken a Christian apologetics class, learning to present a rational basis for your faith and defending it against objections. A highly-touted television debate between an apologist and an atheist drew large audiences earlier this year. For most, however, simply sharing from your “map” how God worked in your life carries more with it than learned rationalizations. People can believe change when they see how and why it happened. Can you point to a specific time when Jesus became real in your life, and you received Him as your Savior?

Pray for Christians in government to be bold in sharing God’s difference for them – to the end that others will want to believe.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 2:9-19

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Still the Same

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A little over 25 years ago, the hit song “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” was released by singer Bobby McFerrin. It’s a catchy tune and once you’ve heard it, you can’t get it out of your head. It also touches on an issue most face every day – the struggle between worrying and happiness.

Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord his God.

Psalm 146:5

The first word in today’s verse is “blessed,” but it is interchanged with “happy” in many Bible translations. Both are used to explain that someone who believes in the “God of Jacob” is fortunate, favored, and can feel content with no worries. Why? Because this one true God saves His people from sin, showers them with blessings of grace, and supplies all their needs. Those who trust in Him have not only strength for each day, but hope for eternity.

Are you overwhelmed? Remember, the “God of Jacob” from over 2,000 years ago is still the same God in control today. Pray for Him to release you from worry. Also petition Him to make Himself and His power known to the citizens and leaders of the nation.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 6:25-34

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Focus Above

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Legendary college basketball coach John Wooden is thought by many to be the greatest coach of any sport. Coach Wooden still holds many records that may never be broken. His teams won 10 championships, and no other coach can claim more than four. However, though Wooden is revered for his achievements as a coach, his winning record did not define his success.

You were called to the one hope that belongs to your call.

Ephesians 4:4

“I made up my mind in 1935 to live by a set of principles and I never wavered from them,” Wooden once said. “They are based on the Bible and the teachings of Jesus.” He also told his players: “Discipline yourselves so others won’t have to. Never lie, never cheat, never steal. Earn the right to be proud and confident.”

Colossians 3:2 says, “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” As you interact with others daily, ask God to show you opportunities to focus on the eternal rather than the temporal in each thought and action. Pray also that the nation’s leaders would make their personal and professional decisions based on God’s perspective and principles.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 3:12-21

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Set the Captives Free

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At 17, Maurice and his girlfriend shared a townhouse with his sister. He sold drugs to help pay the bills. No surprise that soon Maurice was in the county jail. But when a visiting minister suggested he read the gospel of John, things changed. Maurice gained a new understanding of Christ’s sacrifice and unending love. He was redeemed.

O Israel, hope in the Lord! For with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption.

Psalm 130:7

Today’s verse talks about that same “steadfast love” and “plentiful redemption.” The nation of Israel was also living a life of sin and shame. In Psalm 130, David recounts how no one could stand before God without his forgiveness. But He not only forgives, He exchanges a bad life for an abundant one. Maurice, still in prison, is now enrolled in a prison ministry degree program. God is using him to minister to others right from his cell.

America can experience that same kind of redemption. God’s love is never ending, and He will always take the broken and make it new again. Pray for America to place hope in His unfailing love. Ask Him, too, to redeem the lives of men like Maurice, as well as your nation’s leaders.

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 61:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Child of God

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Often it’s easy to recognize parents in their children, both in the way they look and in the way they act. If you believe in Jesus, you are a child of God. You may not sport a beard or robe, but every day you should strive to copy Christ in your behavior.

And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.

I John 3:3

Preceding today’s passage is the teaching: “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” (I John 3:1) People don’t recognize Christians when they don’t recognize Jesus, though God’s children are easy to spot; those who hope in the Lord will live pure lives and not entangle themselves in sin.

Do you ever feel like the odd man out at work or in a social situation because of your values? It’s only to be expected. “Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.” (I John 3:13) Stand strong. Don’t be ashamed of who you are in Christ. Ask God to open the eyes of the people around you – and of this nation – to who Jesus is, and why they should know Him.

Recommended Reading: John 15:18-27

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – One and Only

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ppt_seal01Once a year: that was the only time the high priest could enter the room designated as the Holy of Holies. He had to pass behind a thick, high curtain which separated the room from the outer section of the temple. In that place he pleaded for forgiveness of sins for the people of Israel. Then Jesus came; He died – once for all to pay the price for sin.

We have this…a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain.

Hebrews 6:19

As He hung the final three hours on the cross, “there was darkness over the whole land…and the curtain of the temple was torn in two.” The Savior, still in control even at death, declared that His work was finished, and His human spirit went directly into the Father’s presence (Luke 23:44-46). Jesus, the Hope of mankind, the God-man…now sits on His throne in Heaven as your intercessor. The curtain is open; you can talk to Him directly!

It should give you a security unlike any other. Your redemption has been accomplished by the Holy One. Nothing further is needed except your belief. In this time of great doubt and insecurity, pray that the people of this nation would trust in their one and only hope, the Savior Jesus Christ.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 9:11-15, 22-28

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Paper Towns

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Had you walked the streets of any of America’s eastern cities during the second half of the nineteenth century, you would have soon been approached by a farmer or entrepreneur offering to sell you land in the west. A brochure would be presented containing a map illustrating an impressive new town complete with schools, stores, factories, churches and many fine homes. Literally thousands of Americans found this offer irresistible. Unfortunately, after leaving everything behind and making the journey west, buyers usually found the land they had purchased was real enough, but the “town” existed only on paper. They were in the middle of nowhere.

Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.

Psalm 33:22

Doubters may say trusting in Christ and a future home in Heaven is a blind hope – like buying land sight unseen. But yours is a much more substantial hope than that. “For we did not follow cleverly devised myths,” writes Peter, “but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (II Peter 1:16) And God promises to make the truth known to all those who diligently seek him (Proverbs 8:17).

Today, pray that America’s leaders might turn away from myths…and to the truth of God and His Word.

Recommended Reading: John 8:31-38

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Not a Slug

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Slugs are the bane of many gardens. At night, they’ll ooze their way through your plants, chewing off leaves and fruit. They’re sneaky little gastropods, say extermination experts: baiting them, trapping them, even sending in lizards and chickens might help. Still, slugs won’t go away. They can only be managed.

We desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end.

Hebrews 6:11

The writer of Hebrews cautions that you not become sluggish, but earnestly imitate faith’s heroes. There are ways to avoid becoming a spiritual slug. Make a daily habit of spending time in the Bible – diligently read, study, and journal your thoughts to expand your knowledge of God and the certainty of His promises. Then pray. Your prayers are a sweet aroma to the Lord (Psalm 141:2). Be ready also to give an answer to everyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that you have (I Peter 3:15).

Pray today for the leaders in your church working to manage the spiritual slugs in the midst. Include in your prayers Christian members of the Obama Administration, Congress and the judiciary who know the Lord to develop the same earnestness and share their hope.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 6:1-12