Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – The King’s Place

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When Ahaziah king of Israel died, his mother Athaliah took over the throne. To ensure her reign, she killed all of her male family members and continued her evil ways thereafter. However, Jehoshabeath, Joash’s aunt, saved Joash and hid him until he was old enough to be king at eight years old. When the priest Jehoiada anointed Joshua king, the people rejoiced. The new regime had Athaliah executed.

When she looked, there was the king standing by his pillar at the entrance, and the captains and the trumpeters beside the king.

II Chronicles 23:13

When you yield your life to Jesus, you are allowing the Heavenly King to take His rightful place in your life, and you put to death the lusts of the flesh. And in answer to your prayers, God performs His will on the Earth. A kingdom is where the king rules. The kingdom of God is “righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17)

Some day Jesus will physically take His rightful place on the Earth. Until then, pray for God’s will to be done on Earth as it is in Heaven…which will produce righteousness, peace and joy in your life and in this nation.

Recommended Reading: Colossians 3:1-14

 

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Devoted to God

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The Olympic Games reward the top three winners by positioning them on a platform of honor. But a fourth podium would have to be erected to give praise to King David’s warrior Abishai. His place came beside David’s “mighty three,” but was one earned because of his courage and loyalty to the king.

Now Abishai…wielded his spear against 300 men and killed them and won a name beside the three.

I Chronicles 11:20

David’s men differed from those who followed his predecessor Saul. Saul’s armies couldn’t be trusted and had to be bribed to do his bidding. Devoted men risked their lives for David because of his honest character and stature in leadership. They understood that the Lord’s hand was upon him and wanted to be a part of what God was doing.

David’s bravery, as well as his humanity, made him worthy of mention in the Bible over 1,000 times. His sinfulness is not hidden, but neither are his confessions and turning back to God.

And so it should be today. Be devoted to God…an example to those around you. Give testimony of the Lord’s goodness – His mercy and grace – in your life. Pray that those in leadership would turn from their sinful ways and look to God for guidance.

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 45:18-22

 

 

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R.- Straight Talk

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The final tapes from the Nixon White House were released by the National Archives last month, and they reveal a President with a blind spot similar to the one of King Ahab, the subject of today’s scripture. The tapes include once-secret Oval Office recordings of conversations between Nixon and his aides. Time after time, Nixon surrogates are heard reassuring the President that the Watergate scandal will pass. Of course, it didn’t pass at all – Nixon was soon forced to resign.

I saw the Lord sitting on his throne, and all the host of heaven standing beside him on his right hand and on his left.

I Kings 22:19

King Ahab, likewise, surrounded himself with “yes” men. But there was one prophet, Micaiah, who was willing to give it to him straight…even though the truth was unpleasant. Micaiah told the king that the Lord and the “host of heaven” beside Him had forecast disaster for Ahab.

Are you willing to speak the truth in love to others? As you come beside America’s leaders today in prayer and seek ways to influence them, remember that while tact, timing and diplomacy are important qualities, the truth must never be surrendered. When you ask boldly, God will give you the wisdom and courage to say what must be said!

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 4:17-25

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Trust in Tragedy

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King David and his wife had a gravely ill newborn. In desperation, David did what any God-fearing parent would do: he bombarded Heaven with prayers. He rejected all creature comforts. His advisers urged him to eat, but he wouldn’t even do that. The King’s period of grief began while the baby was still alive. Ultimately, David was informed of the infant’s death. Then he did something not every parent would do: he got up, took a bath, dressed in clean clothes, went to the house of the Lord, and worshipped.

And the elders of his house stood beside him, to raise him from the ground, but he would not.

II Samuel 12:17

Puzzling reaction? Not when you consider that David was likely comforted by knowing he’d see his son again. He was confident the infant would spend eternity with the Lord – and with his child.

When you have occasion to be beside someone watching their child fight a mortal illness, the only comfort you can offer them is God’s eternal promised love for children. Encourage them to do as David did, and examine their own mortality and relationship with the Lord. Pray, too, for the children and families of your nation’s leaders…that they would find the God in whom David could trust in tragedy.

Recommended Reading: II Samuel 12:15-24

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Stronger Together

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“You’ve gotta know someone.” Whether you’re trying to break into the music industry, get a contract for your book, or just want a new job, you may hear this phrase. When friends are willing to vouch for you, doors are more likely to open.

I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where you are, and I will speak to my father about you. I Samuel 19:3

True friends don’t expect benefits from a relationship, but are certainly willing to help when they can. David and Jonathan had that type of friendship. King Saul was wildly jealous of David and ordered his attendants and even his own son to kill David. But Jonathan willingly stood up for David to Saul, telling his father, “His deeds have brought good to you.” (I Samuel 19:4) As a result, the envious king backed down and allowed David back in his presence.

This nation is in desperate need of people who will stand alongside national leaders who choose to follow Jesus. They are stronger with your help. Pray for the courage to stand beside Christian leaders in political offices. As you speak out to bring them encouragement, reach out to lift each other up as well.

Recommended Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:7-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Fear Not

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The Old Testament Ark of the Covenant was the earthly throne of God where He met with the children of Israel. When God gave Moses instructions for building the Ark, metal loops were put on its sides so poles could be used to carry the chest. In this way, no one would touch it because doing so meant death. The people were to fear the power of God’s presence.

And the Levites took down the ark of the Lord and the box that was beside it, in which were the golden figures. I Samuel 6:15

Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” The phrase “I am with you” describes the covenant relationship between God and His people today. Because of Christ’s sacrifice, you no longer have to fear God’s presence. He is with you every moment. No person or circumstance can separate you from your Heavenly Father.

As you spend time with God, thank Him that He is always beside you during times of fear and uncertainty. Claim this promise as you also pray for the future of this nation and your leaders.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 138

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Unexpected Answer

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In the passages surrounding today’s verse, Eli was going about his business, most likely oblivious to the change about to take place in his life.

Eli the priest was sitting on the seat beside the doorpost of the temple of the Lord.  I Samuel 1:9

He watched a woman move her mouth with no audible speech. He said, “How long will you go on being drunk?” (v.14) She told him she was not drunk, but deeply distressed and pouring her heart out to the Lord. He said, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant your petition that you have made to him.” (v. 17)

Eli probably didn’t give the woman’s prayer a second thought – but years later, she showed up with a toddler to lend to the Lord. The Bible doesn’t say how Eli felt about this unexpected gift, only that he trained the child. Unlike with his two “worthless” sons, Eli must have done a good job raising this child: Samuel became a great prophet of God.

As this nation remembers September 11, 2001 and as you pray for yourself and your country, it may seem like little good is happening. God’s answer may not be a toddler on your doorstep, but be assured the Lord is creating change in your life and in the nation through your prayers.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21

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Open Letter – A Call to Prayer on 9-11.

       Dear Prayer Team:

Today, the United States has marked the 12th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington DC. The nation has also paused to remember the one year anniversary of the September 11, 2012 attack against the U.S. consulate in Benghazi that killed four Americans, including the U.S. Ambassador to Libya.

THE NEED…

       Leading up to these somber milestones, the eyes of the nation and indeed the world have been focused on Washington, DC as the U.S. Congress considered whether to authorize the use of American force to strike Syria over that government’s alleged use of chemical weapons against its citizens.

While the world awaits the U.S. decision on Syria, believers in Christ should keep in mind what is written in Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.” And, God often turns the heart of the king in response to prayer.

WHAT IS NEEDED?

This truth was recently echoed by Leith Anderson, President of the National Association of  Evangelicals, which represents 40 Christian denominations and more than 45,000 local churches in the U.S. Anderson said that while the political issues regarding Syria are complicated, one thing is crystal clear: now is the time for Christians to pray.

“The Bible teaches us to pray for our leaders,” Anderson said. “This is a week for extra prayers as our Congress and President Obama decide what to do about Syria. And, let’s add Syrian leaders to our prayer list. Our request is that God will give wisdom to make choices for a lasting peace in the region.”

Anderson’s call to prayer is pertinent and timely. The Apostle Paul also admonishes believers to “pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17) and Jesus reminded his followers – in regards to temptation – to “watch and pray.” That latter admonition also holds true as you see current events unfolding and the world’s desperate need for Christ.

WHAT YOU CAN DO…PRAY NOW

As you remember the events of 9-11 and Benghazi and pray about the unfolding drama in Syria, focus your hope on heaven. “You will hear of wars and rumors of war,” Jesus said, “See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet” (Matthew 24:5-7). And remember, above all, God is in control of this seemingly out-of-control world.

PRAY FOR:

1) Comfort for those who were personally affected by the 9/11 terror events and the Benghazi attack

2) For a spirit of revival to sweep across America

3) For wisdom for America’s leaders in dealing with the Syria crisis and other world trouble spots

An excerpt of the “Inside Washington” article by Dave Ficere
featured in this upcoming Thursday’s Weekly Update.

       Your Prayer Team

If you would like to sign-up to receive our
Weekly Update free by email  – Click Here

PLEASE FORWARD THIS EMAIL ARTICLE TO YOUR
FRIENDS, CHURCH AND FAMILY MEMBERS. LET’S PRAY!

      “The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.“–James 5:16

 

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Rest at His Feet

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A very powerful man inviting a lowly foreigner to sit with him and his workers for meals each day was the most generous of invitations. Ruth was to eat beside the reapers – a sign of acceptance into Boaz’ family, the inner circle.

And at mealtime Boaz said to her, “Come here and eat some bread and dip your morsel in the wine.” So she sat beside the reapers.   Ruth 2:14

The meal provided a time of rest from the day’s work and renewed strength for the remaining hours of labor. Boaz offered her protection from any ill treatment and provisions as she gathered grain from anywhere in the fields. Later he offered her rest at his feet.

Can you see the parallel in Christ’s invitation? “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) God’s Son, your Savior, invites you to have rest in Him as a member of His family. His forgiveness relieves your load of sin. His provision supplies your every need, and His protection allows you to be free from fear.

Come alongside the Lord. Rest at His feet and learn from Him. Pray, as Jesus did, with boldness…for your families, your neighbors and this nation’s leaders.

Recommended Reading: Lamentations 3:21-26, 55-57

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Never Outnumbered

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When Harry Truman defeated Thomas Dewey to win the 1948 presidential election, many people were in shock. The New York Times had declared Dewey’s victory a “foregone conclusion” and virtually all the experts predicted a lopsided defeat for Truman. But it turned out the prognosticators had it all wrong.

Then Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) and all the people who were with him rose early and encamped beside the spring of Harod.

Judges 7:1

When Gideon’s army of 32,000 camped beside the spring of Harod, they could not have known the significance that little body of water was about to play. First, God directed Gideon to allow those who were fearful to go home. That eliminated 22,000. Then the remainder were sorted based on how they drank water from the spring. In the end, Gideon went to war with just 300 men – and God gave him a great victory that could never have been predicted.

It’s a great reminder as you pray for America and its leaders today. You may find little hope for spiritual revival based on polls or popular opinion. But when God is beside you, you can never be outnumbered or outflanked. You are certain to make an eternal impact if your trust is in Him.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 59:1-10

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G – Flourishing and Useful

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Balaam was an interesting Old Testament character. A sorcerer who was willing to let God show him marvelous things, Balaam acknowledged God’s awesome power, but refused to change his life. Still, when Balaam was taken to a high vantage point, the Spirit of God came upon him and he spoke words of blessing: “How lovely are your tents, O Jacob, your encampments, O Israel! Like palm groves that stretch afar, like gardens beside a river, like aloes that the Lord has planted, like cedar trees beside the waters.”

Like aloes that the Lord has planted, like cedar trees beside the waters.   Numbers 24:6

Not only were the flourishing plants diverse, they were useful. Cedar grows strong, straight and solid. Its aromatic, repels insects, and has been used for eons for respiratory ailments, skin rashes and infections. Aloe, too, possesses healing properties for burns, inflammations, and topical bacterial infections. The juice is a strong antioxidant, hunting down free radicals and protecting the body.

As a part of God’s garden, are you flourishing? Are you useful? Consider these things today, asking the Lord to keep you firmly planted in Him so you can come alongside others with a word of healing, encouragement or exhortation. Pray, too, for Christians in government to find their spiritual political usefulness.

Recommended Reading: Numbers 24:1-14

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Over There

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It is the morning of April 6, 1917. The headlines proclaim the United States has declared war on Germany. Most people are reeling with concern – but one man begins humming a tune.

Balaam said to Balak, “Stand here beside your burnt offering, while I meet the Lord over there.”

Numbers 23:15

George M. Cohan, actor, singer, dancer, songwriter, playwright and Broadway producer responsible for hundreds of songs including “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” “Give My Regards to Broadway,” and “I’m a Yankee Doodle Dandy,” began composing a song in his mind. By the afternoon, the anthem for World War I was written, the classic song “Over There.”

In 1936, Cohan was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for writing the words: So prepare, say a prayer / Send the word, send the word to beware / We’ll be over there, we’re coming over / And we won’t come back till it’s over – over there. Cohan wrote about America’s determination to do whatever it would take to win liberty for the oppressed.

As a believer in Christ, you are enlisted in God’s army. Your orders are to stand beside your nation in prayer while God completes His plan to conquer death and darkness. Hold your position today with courage and determination. In His timing, God will win the war and take His people into a glorious eternity…over there.

Recommended Reading: Luke 21:9-19

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – No Gumball Answers

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The first ever reference to a vending machine was from the work of Hero of Alexandria (c. AD 10-70). You may be surprised to know it was designed to dispense holy water. Over the years, the popularity of vending machines has grown steadily. Now you can attain anything from gumballs to plastic rings to canned drinks and snacks.

Then a wind from the Lord sprang up, and it brought quail from the sea and let them fall beside the camp.  Numbers 11:31

Why the popularity? People like instant gratification. While wandering in the wilderness, God provided the Israelites manna each day. But the people complained to Moses because they wanted meat. Like so many children aiming for the golden vending machine prize, the Israelites were dissatisfied with God’s provision and asked for more. The Lord sent so much quail, it took two whole days to gather it. He provided, but soon His anger burned against them.

Prayer cannot be treated like coin-operated machines. God doesn’t work that way, but He will come alongside you if you ask. Take your concerns for the nation and its leaders to your Heavenly Father. Be assured He will be with you. Just remain grateful, and don’t expect Him to dispense answers like gumballs.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 4

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – No Pit So Deep

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Corrie and Betsy ten Boom, two Dutch sisters, hid Jews during the Nazi occupation of their country during World War II. As a result, the Nazis sent the two elderly women to one of their dreaded concentration camps where they endured horrible suffering. Yet Corrie and Betsy courageously ministered to hundreds of other prisoners who needed God. Their barracks were transformed into a Bible study and prayer center, and many prisoners embraced a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Take no interest from him or profit, but fear your God, that your brother may live beside you.

Leviticus 25:36

When Betsy became deathly ill, Corrie leaned down to hear her whisper, “You must tell people what we have learned here. We must tell them that there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still.” Betsie died the following day. Soon Corrie was miraculously discharged from the camp only days before all women her age were killed. Corrie later traveled the world – telling her story of God’s presence even in the worst of places.

Whether it’s your health, relationships or finances, God is with you during every crisis. Remember also that no matter the condition of this country, the Lord is beside you as you revere Him and courageously pray for the nation’s leaders.

Recommended Reading: Joshua 1:1-9

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Common to Holy

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In this chapter of Leviticus, Aaron’s sons had just offered an unacceptable sacrifice to God and were consumed by fire. Now their brothers had taken their place. God told Aaron (and his sons), “You are to distinguish between the holy and the common, and between the unclean and the clean…” (Leviticus 10:10)

Take the grain offering that is left of the Lord‘s food offerings, and eat it unleavened beside the altar, for it is most holy.  Leviticus 10:12

This is the inherent problem of a loving, holy God. He loves people, but He is Holy, and cannot look on sin. Mercifully and graciously, God the Father provided the answer in God the Son by the power of God the Holy Spirit through a common woman, Mary.

By faith, sinful people become holy through Jesus. The apostle Paul talks about how faith makes humans holy: “Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.” (Romans 14:18) Because of Jesus, the Holy Spirit now comes alongside common people to pray to the Father and receive uncommon answers.

Come before the Lord in faith, believing He hears and answers your prayers for your loved ones and your nation. He’ll be pleased with your sacrifice of intercession.

Recommended Reading: Romans 12:9-21

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Standing Faithful

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More than likely, they always accompanied her…perhaps for protection, perhaps to keep her company. Any way you look at it, Pharaoh’s daughter had ladies in waiting – always beside her, attending her every need. What a privilege!

Now the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, while her young women walked beside the river.  Exodus 2:5

Few people have others who answer their beck and call. But you are blessed if you have a friend who stands beside you…to comfort you, help you finish a job, or simply fellowship with you. A faithful friend will remain with you in difficult times, especially those periods when all others flee. Is it not a gift of God that He is one friend that will never, ever fail you?

It is possible that a person may abandon the Lord, but the opposite is never true for the believer. Know that God will “never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) He desires an ever-developing relationship with you – a relationship won by Christ and accepted by faith.

Take time to know Him. Walk beside Him in His Word. Let your prayer time be a heartfelt conversation. Listen to His guidance. Then intercede for this nation and its leaders that they might return to the Lord.

Recommended Reading: II Thessalonians 2:15-3:5

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Constant Care

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Dickie Brown, a British sheep farmer, says sheep will not drink from moving water. When he brought his flock to a small stream, he used rocks to dam up a shallow portion providing a place where the water was “still” so that the sheep could – and would – drink and be refreshed. Even though thirsty, his directionally-challenged sheep had to be led to the water. Dickie’s care for his sheep was constant.

He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.  Psalm 23:2

Jesus has provided living water to satiate your spiritual thirst. He gently leads you to Himself and then stays constantly beside you. In John 10, He calls you sheep, and reminds you that He is the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for you.

Give gratitude in your prayer time today for His everlasting presence with you. Then boldly stand in prayer beside others who need to experience the Good Shepherd’s love…whether family or friends. And be particularly inclusive of all who serve in America’s federal government, from President Obama to the lowest intern, that they, too, might find the Lord’s still waters and green pastures.

Recommended Reading: John 4:7-15

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Fully Persuaded

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Only certain people have direct access to the President of the United States. He guards his privacy and is approachable only on his own terms. But you can draw near to the Lord – who is far greater in every way – with only an uplift of your eyes. It’s a wonderful right of entry that cannot be denied to you as a believer. But do you understand what all of this means?

We have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus. Hebrews 10:19

Think of Jesus’ relationship to His disciples. He was their Master. And yet, right before He went to the cross, He washed their feet. Christ was humble; He had no identity crisis. He knew exactly who He was and where He was going…He knew His purpose on Earth. His humility that night and throughout His life was born of this confidence.

Thirty-one times the New Testament speaks of the confidence you can have…the freedom and the boldness given to you in your relationship through Jesus. Be fully persuaded that you have access to the Lord at any time.

Therefore, let your prayers ascend to Him with intercessions for this nation, for your family and for yourself to have the courage to do and be that which the Lord asks of you.

Recommended Reading: 1 John 3:16-24

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Powerful Preaching

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They called him the “Prince of Preachers,” and Charles Haddon Spurgeon often spoke to crowds of more than 10,000 at London’s Metropolitan Tabernacle. He was a wonderful orator, but the secret to his success was not in his skills.

Strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ.  Romans 16:25

Visitors who came to observe Spurgeon’s methods were often escorted by the pastor to a basement prayer room below the church. There, scores of people would be found on their knees praying. “Here is the powerhouse of this church,” Spurgeon informed the visitors. He once boldly said, “If any of you should ask me for an epitome of the Christian religion, I should say that it is in one word – prayer. Live and die without prayer, and you will pray long enough when you get to hell.”

The preaching of Jesus Christ is not a one-person operation. Preaching is only made powerful and effective by the consistent and faithful prayers of the body of Christ. Before you criticize a pastor’s Sunday sermon, ask yourself whether you were bold and strong in prayer for him in the week preceding. Remember, also, that America will remain a beacon of home and freedom to the world only to the extent you are on your knees, pleading for God’s divine blessing upon her leaders.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Who’s Coming for Supper?

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The congregation at the church in Laodicea was an insipid lot. They were satisfied with themselves just the way they were – wealthy enough, healthy enough, life was good. The trouble is that Jesus didn’t see them that way! He knew they were “wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked.” (Revelation 3:17) But of the seven churches addressed in Revelation, the Laodiceans were the ones chosen for intimacy. You can imagine Christ saying, “I’m knocking at your door. Why don’t you let me in and we can sit down and have supper together and talk about these things?”

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. Revelation 3:20

Are you a ho-hum, lukewarm, limp Christian offering tepid prayers and looking at your Bible reading as a bland routine? Wouldn’t you prefer to be refreshed and exhilarated after the time you’ve spent with your Lord? Start by not taking your devotional time for granted. Remember it is the God of the Universe who seeks to be close to you! Keep your focus on Him, motivated by your love for each other. Two-way communication over your spiritual supper table is essential. Don’t rush.

While you are communing in prayer, be sure to intercede for those in authority over you to find their relationship with the One who knocked at your door today.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 63:1-8

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Facing the Enemy

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An Army Field Artillery Instructor tells of the dissimilarity in his pupils during two time periods. From 1958-60, the students were lax and slept during lectures. However, the students from 1965-67 were alert and took notes. Class content was the same, so what made the difference? The students from 1965-67 were about to face the enemy in Vietnam.

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.  I Corinthians 16:13

Paul wrote today’s verse to the church in Corinth. Spiritual enemies were against them then, just as they are against you today. Paul knew to fight the enemy, one must be prepared. There was confusion among believers then and today as to how to behave and what to believe, so Paul gave four simple commands: 1) Be watchful. Stay awake and aware of the enemy and temptations. Don’t let spiritual sleepiness throw you off guard; 2) Stand firm in the faith. Hold on to His truth. Don’t be seduced by false doctrines; 3) Act like men. Grow up into spiritual maturity. Don’t act like children being selfish and uncontrolled; and 4) Be strong. The strength will not come from you, but from God.

Pray today for you, the country, and its leaders to recognize the enemy and follow these commands given by Paul.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 5:5-12