Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Eternal Freedom

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Well, it’s over! The World Series has been played and there was a winner. Some players received the glory. But in a very short time, they and their team will be forgotten.

Give thanks to the Lord…proclaim that his name is exalted.

Isaiah 12:4

It should not be that way for the God of your salvation! In what could be characterized as a psalm, Isaiah proclaims that the Lord should be praised and His name should be exalted. From the time of the Exodus of Israel from Egypt to the celebration of Passover each year, God’s chosen people give thanks and praise to their deliverer.

That should be your song as well, believer. You are delivered – redeemed and saved from the fate of sin! When you realize the joy of reconciliation to the One against whom you have sinned, sing your praises to God and speak of it to those around you. As they come to faith, they can make this song their own, knowing the reality of His saving grace.

Intercede for America…that many will come to faith and understand their deliverance. May they give thanks to God for the freedoms He has given – in this great country and for eternity. The praises should never die; the glory is always the Lord’s.

Recommended Reading: II Corinthians 3:12-4:6

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Mystery Man

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Even to this day, no one really knows why he did it, although millions annually visit the complex of museums bearing his name. When Englishman James Smithson died in 1829, his will provided for his estate of about $500,000 to be gifted to “the United States of America, to found at Washington, under the name of the Smithsonian Institution, an Establishment for the increase and diffusion of knowledge.” Smithson was an obscure scientist known by few. You may not know much about Smithson, but you certainly know of his deeds.

Give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!

I Chronicles 16:8

If the Lord is your Savior, his works and wonders are obvious to you. Yet most of the world knows no more about Jesus than they do about James Smithson. In this month of thanksgiving, how will you “make known his deeds among the peoples?”

Today, pray that your life might be used to draw others to the gift of eternal life offered by God. James Smithson, the mystery man, impacted generations of Americans with his thoughtful generosity. As you follow God’s perfect will for your life, your spiritual legacy shall be even greater!

Recommended Reading: I Timothy 4:4-10

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Group Dynamics

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Affinity groups are frequently small clusters of people who engage in a common activity. Working alone can be a daunting task in which you could feel somewhat powerless. But when you put your activities together with those of others who are like-minded, strength is consolidated and multiplied exponentially.

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you.

Colossians 1:3

Paul knew this. On his missionary journeys, he watched people band together in the cause of Christ and His Kingdom, amplifying their purpose and expanding his efforts. It’s no wonder, then, that when he wrote to them, he gave thanks for them. And he always prayed for them.

Perhaps you are part of a small prayer cell at church or are in a community Bible study. You have experienced exponential results in working and serving together, and have seen an increase in the power of prayer by being united as you call upon the Lord. In this month of Thanksgiving, give your gratitude to God for them, and for America where you can still gather. Then today as you pray, whether by yourself or in the company of others, intercede for the nation’s leaders to grasp both the significance and importance of public and private prayer.

Recommended Reading: Colossians 1:3-14

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; – J.K. – His Hand of Comfort

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Halloween is a time when scary things are prevalent – skeletons come to life, ghostly sounds emanate from unlikely places, and people dress in frightening costumes. Much time is spent making light of death.

He laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last.”

Revelation 1:17

However, there is no comfort in death if you have not the certainty of life eternal with Jesus Christ. He loved beyond any other when He died to take away the sin of the world. He rose again, and it was this glorified Jesus that John saw in his vision. John fell at His feet “as though dead” in awe of His glory (Revelation 1:17). But Christ extended His hand of comfort and gave John the assurance that no one else could give. Jesus was the divine Son of God, “the first and the last.” He is before all things and will be in control at the end of all things, having authority over all. You need not fear.

Apply this glorious truth to every situation in your life, including the effects of the chaotic conditions in government. Intercede for the nation’s leaders…that they may discover the certainty of life with Christ and be guided by Him. Then rest in His presence.

Recommended Reading: Revelation 1:9-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – God’s Superstars

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America’s wowed by its sports stars. Names like Babe Ruth, Joe Namath and Michael Phelps are practically spoken with reverence. God’s perspective is a little different. “He’s not impressed with horsepower; the size of our muscles means little to him. Those who fear God get God’s attention; they can depend on his strength.” (Psalm 147:10-11, The Message)

The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.

Psalm 147:11

In His eyes, superstars are those who are well acquainted with their own weaknesses, hope in the Lord and rely on His strength. Hebrews 11 describes the faith “hall of fame.” In the list of people like Rahab, Samson and David, you recognize them as individuals with human flaws, yet they did great things when they relied on the Lord.

You’re probably faced daily with your own shortcomings…and the difficulties of the nation seemed to be magnified as time goes by. Know that, like America takes joy in its sports heroes, the Lord delights in you as you turn to Him in faith and prayer…for yourself and for your country. Rejoice that the God of Heaven and Earth actually enjoys hearing from you – and sees you as His star!

Recommended Reading: Philippians 2:1-15

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Perfect Place

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“I’m not afraid to die,” quipped the venerable screenwriter Woody Allen, “I just don’t want to be there when it happens!” He’s not alone in that sentiment. For most people, the thought of death is fearful – certainly a thought to be avoided. The majority of Americans, for example, have not prepared a Last Will and Testament, and a shocking number of people never bother with life insurance even though they may have loved ones who would be left in the lurch when they pass on.

There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.

I John 4:18

Are you gripped by a fear of death? Meditate today on God’s “perfect love.” If you have made Christ the Lord of your life, you can be fully confident in your destiny when the day of judgment arrives. You truly have nothing to fear, for the Heaven awaiting you will far surpass any meager joys Earth can offer.

As you pray for America today, thank God you live in a nation where you may freely share the news of Christ’s perfect love. And ask Him to put someone in your path today who needs to know about the wondrous place He has prepared – where there will be no more suffering or sin.

Recommended Reading: II Peter 3:8-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Whose Longing Is It?

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King David wrote 73 psalms. Some were prayers or offers of thanksgiving, but Psalm 145 is a psalm of praise. In it, David praises God for His power, personality, provision and presence. In verse 19, David praises Him for fulfilling his desires and hearing him.

He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.

Psalm 145:19

How could David say God fulfilled his desires? After all, David desired revenge on Nabal (I Samuel 25), and he desired the life of his baby with Bathsheba (II Samuel 12), but God didn’t fulfill David’s wishes…or all of yours. Why? Some desires are sinful or not good for you. Others are outside of His bigger purposes. A desire is something you long for. God meets them when they are in accordance with His will, so the question becomes a matter of your heart. A holy heart only wants what a holy God can give. This is why David wrote Psalm 51. He needed a clean heart so his desires would affirm God’s.

Are you longing for something but wondering why the Lord isn’t answering? Examine your motives, then ask God to cleanse your heart so your wishes will match His. Pray, too, for the hearts of the nation’s leaders to be purified and to fear God…so He might hear and save them, too.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 51:1-12

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Suffering

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It’s a bittersweet reality. People suffers. There is no one on Earth with enough money, power or prestige to delegate their share of life’s grief. The tabloids are rife with the stories of the celebrated, rich and powerful trying to buy peace of mind; yet they, too, still suffer from calamity and misfortune.

But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake…have no fear of them, nor be troubled.

I Peter 3:14

The Bible has a lot to say about earthly sorrow. Interestingly, Jesus says suffering as a believer is not to be feared or avoided. Why? Suffering causes you to develop endurance in your faith, and that enduring faithful strength produces a Christ-like character in your life. The ultimate outcome of character in life is hope. Miraculously, when a believer in Jesus suffers, the end result is hope!

If you are enduring difficulties today, be assured it is not pointless misery. Every tear you shed is known by your loving Father. Some sorrow will be redeemed in this life on Earth, transformed into a soulful peace. Other travail will be counted as righteousness to your soul and exchanged for joy in Heaven. Regardless of your situation, don’t fear; the One who called you by name will, by His name, redeem all pain.

Recommended Reading: Romans 5:1-8

 

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Healthy and Amazing

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When the Lord was giving the children of Israel the Ten Commandments, He spoke to them from a fire on Mount Sinai. They were afraid because they realized they were in the presence of their awesome Creator God. He commanded them to fear Him.

Let those who fear you turn to me, that they may know your testimonies.

Psalm 119:79

Proverbs 9:10 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” What does fearing God really mean? His magnificence brings forth reverence, honor and praise. In a society where the Lord is no longer revered, He certainly is not a “buddy,” “the Man Upstairs,” or a profanity word. God is your Heavenly Father and you are His beloved child. He wants you to approach Him with an attitude of humility, submissiveness and respect.

Allow your Creator’s greatness, holiness and gracious love to captivate you every day. As you cultivate a healthy fear of God, you will be changed forever. People will notice amazing changes in your life and be drawn to Him as a result. Pray and believe God, too, for a daily fear of Him in the lives of our nation’s leaders. Your bold prayers will make a difference!

Recommended Reading: Psalm 111

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – World Power

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In August 2013, many Egyptians were killed in a clash between the Muslim Brotherhood and security forces of the government. Everyone watched to see what side America would take. Other nations recognize the weight of a world power backing it. But President Obama was firm in saying, “We don’t take sides.”

We can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”

Hebrews 13:6

People assume if America is on their side, they can’t lose. While that’s not necessarily true with this nation, it is true with the Lord. He can win any battle. With God, Daniel was saved from the mouth of the lion. With God, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were not singed in the fiery furnace. With God, Moses was able to lead the Israelites away from Pharaoh and through the Red Sea on dry ground. “With God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)

Whatever you are facing today, whoever your enemies may be – do not fear. When the Lord is your helper, He will provide you with the strength to do what needs to be done. Ask God to cast away fear and help you stand strong. Then ask Him to reveal Himself to President Obama and his cabinet so they know God is the only true world power.

Recommended Reading: Joshua 23:1-10

 

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R.- Another Fine Mess

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Film comic Stan Laurel of “Laurel and Hardy” was hugely successful as an actor. As a husband…not so much. Here is the short version of his biography – but be warned: it’s difficult to follow. Stan first married Lois. Then he married Virginia. Then he married Vera, a Russian singer he said had “a terrific temper.” There were questions about whether their earlier divorces were legal, so he actually married Vera three separate times. They divorced after Stan dug a hole in their backyard and tried to bury her alive. Then he married Virginia for a second time, divorced her again, and married Ida.

Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”

Psalm 118:4

Laurel and Hardy’s trademark phrase “another fine mess” could certainly describe Stan’s personal life, but really, that’s true for all of us. We live in a fear-filled world filled with messed up and broken relationships. For many people, love is fleeting, not permanent. But thank God, His love “endures forever.” Nothing can ever shake it.

Today, pray for help in loving others faithfully and unconditionally. The state of things in Washington might be “another fine mess,” but with God’s blessings, that won’t be the state of your home or your heart.

Recommended Reading: I John 3:11-23

 

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Proper Recognition

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A phobia is an inexplicable and illogical fear of something. If you look up types of phobias, you will find an A to Z list of fears ranging from aerophobia, the fear of flying, to zoophobia, the fear of animals. Some fears seem almost comical, but they’re anything but funny to the person experiencing them.

God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. II Timothy 1:7

Phobias, anxiety, worry, or a sense that a disaster or crisis is about to occur are all forms of the “spirit” of fear. Today’s verse says this does not originate with God. It comes from the enemy, Satan, with the specific purpose of paralyzing Christians and keeping them from the purpose the Lord intends for them. When you find yourself plagued by fear, remember God has commanded His followers countless times in His Word to “fear not.”

What is it you are afraid of? Recognize it doesn’t come from God and pray for His help to use the power and self-control He gives you to overcome it. Pray also for the nation’s leaders and Christians to overcome their fears and stand up for what is right.

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 41:8-13

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Bodyguard

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Today, the ultimate status symbol for executives, politicians and celebrities is not a luxurious home, a custom gold watch or a designer dog; more likely, it’s a tall, hulk of a man standing silently over their left shoulder. Because of paparazzi and the incessant notoriety the Internet brings, the rich and famous often live in constant fear, so their most prized possession has become a trusted bodyguard. Personal protection, they feel, is the best way to discourage or confront the threats against them.

You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.

Psalm 115:11

The Bible is full of examples of ordinary people who faced their fears – by trusting in God’s protection. Daniel prayed in public even though it was against the law. Peter was told not to preach about Jesus Christ by the most powerful court in the land, yet he did it anyway. Neither of these men were immune to mortal fear, but they chose to act in faith.

The first step in conquering your fears is to acknowledge God’s supremacy. There is no force or power of evil that is not already conquered by His Spirit. Today, as a Christian American, if He asks you to stand for Him, be assured He is standing with you…just over your shoulder.

Recommended Reading: Mark 13:5-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – No Intimidation

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Daniel Webster is considered one of the greatest orators in American history. He was a famous attorney, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, and Secretary of State for three presidents.

And most of the brothers…are much more bold to speak the word without fear.

Philippians 1:14

One evening Webster was dining with a group of literary men in Boston. The conversation turned to Christianity and Webster confessed his faith in Jesus Christ. One of the men asked, “Mr. Webster, can you comprehend how Christ could be both God and man?” Webster replied, “No, sir, I cannot comprehend it. If I could comprehend Him, He would be no greater than myself. I feel I need a supernatural Saviour.”

Colossians 1:10 says, “Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.” When you speak the words of God without fear and live faithfully for Him, you encourage others to do the same. Don’t be afraid or intimated into silence. Look for opportunities every day to tell others how the Lord has changed your life. Pray also that Christians on Capitol Hill would boldly share their faith in Christ through their words and actions.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:21-30

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – All Praise

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In September 2000, the largest meeting to date of world leaders took place in a three-day event called the Millennium Summit. The group, meeting in the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, consisted of 100 heads of state, 47 heads of government, three crown princes, five Vice Presidents, three Deputy Prime Ministers and more.

Nations will fear the name of the Lord, and all the kings of the earth will fear your glory.

Psalm 102:15

During the summit, 189 member states of the UN not only came together but agreed to bring aid to those countries experiencing extreme poverty in hopes of creating better lives by 2015. Today’s Psalm also refers to a day where all nations will come together to agree on something. They will collectively acknowledge and fear the Lord.

“Every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:10-11) What a day that will be! Pray today not only for your nation’s leaders, but for all world leaders to come to know the one true God. Then take a minute to praise Him for all that He is and all that He’s done.

Recommended Reading: I Chronicles 16:25-36

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Passionate to Persuade

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Motivation is that which makes you do what you do? Have you thought about it lately? The student may work for good grades so his chosen college will accept him. Many adults labor just to exist, but others are prompted by fame, power or money.

Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others.

II Corinthians 5:11

Paul wanted the Corinthians to be motivated to please the Lord in this life. Why? Because of a holy fear, a reverent awe, of God. All believers will stand before Christ at the judgment seat. The genuineness of their faith and actions will be revealed and they will be rewarded accordingly. It is this principle that emphasizes that present-day actions have eternal consequences.

But there is more. It relates to your actions toward your fellow man. Know that the unbeliever is lost. That fact should make you passionate to persuade them of the saving faith of the gospel of Jesus. God desires that none should perish. It is your job to spread the Word.

Stand with the distinctive mark of the believer. Pray for all who hear the message of Christ to believe, especially the leaders of this country. Trust God to convict hearts so they are motivated to please Him in all they do.

Recommended Reading: Romans 10:5-17

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Real Refuge

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The horror movie industry is a multi-billion dollar business. Why do people enjoy scaring themselves? Perhaps it’s interesting to watch someone in a frightening yet ridiculous situation, or maybe it’s just a blessing to know that the horrible things that happen in those outlandish movies – chainsaw massacres or hockey-mask clad murders – will never really happen to you.

You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day.

Psalm 91:5

Today’s verse says you don’t have to be afraid of things that go bump in the night or of any dangers by day. Instead, you can find very real refuge in your God, and come against terrible things through prayer. Before the crucifixion, Jesus told Peter, “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” (Luke 22:31-32) The evil one wanted to put an end to Peter’s faith – and though Peter did deny Jesus three times, he found forgiveness and served God faithfully thereafter.

Regard worries and fears as signals to pray. Thank God for all the blessings this nation still has, and, as the Lord leads, pray against those things that threaten freedom, prosperity and peace.

Recommended Reading: James 5:13-20

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Returning to Faithfulness

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Scholars believe this chapter in Psalms was written after the Jews returned from exile in Babylon. Because of disobedience, God allowed Babylon to destroy Jerusalem and take its people captive. Cyrus, who defeated Babylon, allowed the Jews to return home, but things were still bad. They hadn’t rebuilt the temple. There wasn’t much food. Enemies were still attacking. So once again, they asked God for help. They were reminded of God’s promise that He’ll always come to the aid of those who praise and fear Him.

Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land.

Psalm 85:9

There’s a pattern in Israel that all of God’s people can learn from. When Israel was faithful, blessings on the nation followed; when disloyal, strife and trouble arose. But God always sent help when His people returned to Him in true worship and reverence.

Do you feel taken captive? Are you experiencing trial or discord? Examine yourself to make sure you are being faithful in all God has called you to do. Then pray for yourself and the country to turn to God and praise Him with holy fear so He will allow blessings and glory to come once again to you and the nation.

Recommended Reading: Zechariah 1:2-6, 12-17

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Returning to Faithfulness

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Scholars believe this chapter in Psalms was written after the Jews returned from exile in Babylon. Because of disobedience, God allowed Babylon to destroy Jerusalem and take its people captive. Cyrus, who defeated Babylon, allowed the Jews to return home, but things were still bad. They hadn’t rebuilt the temple. There wasn’t much food. Enemies were still attacking. So once again, they asked God for help. They were reminded of God’s promise that He’ll always come to the aid of those who praise and fear Him.

Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land.

Psalm 85:9

There’s a pattern in Israel that all of God’s people can learn from. When Israel was faithful, blessings on the nation followed; when disloyal, strife and trouble arose. But God always sent help when His people returned to Him in true worship and reverence.

Do you feel taken captive? Are you experiencing trial or discord? Examine yourself to make sure you are being faithful in all God has called you to do. Then pray for yourself and the country to turn to God and praise Him with holy fear so He will allow blessings and glory to come once again to you and the nation.

Recommended Reading: Zechariah 1:2-6, 12-17

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Times Table

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Do you remember the first time you saw the multiplication table? You flipped a page in the math book and there it was – an intimidating grid of scary numbers. At first glance, committing that table to memory seemed like an impossible task. But with a closer look and some explanation, your perception changed. You also discovered that, in contrast to simple addition, multiplication of two numbers tremendously magnifies the result. The table was not really a frightening beast, but actually a powerful tool.

Walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.

Acts 9:31

The Bible promises multiplied peace and joy for those that fear God. Fearing God in this context does not mean hiding under the bed afraid. It means being filled with respect, awe, wonder and reverence for His holiness. When you approach God from this perspective, His presence and power are magnified in your life.

Before you pray for America, your neighborhood or your family today, stop and confess your fear of God. Acknowledge His attributes of loving kindness, generosity and peace. As you walk in this kind of fear, even the most menacing monster will be met with multiplied assurance.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 6:10-14