Category Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Elements

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Most people cannot name the three most abundant elements found in the Earth’s crust. Can you? You may logically guess the first one: oxygen (47 percent); but silicon (28 percent) and aluminum (eight percent) are less obvious and, unless you’re a geologist, wouldn’t even come to mind.

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find.  Matthew 7:7

In the Bible, Daniel, one of God’s faithful people, was in dire circumstances. He was living in a debauched era of history in a land where daily prayers became a punishable offense. With no regard for his own safety, Daniel prayed anyway. He stood with courage against those seeking to stop him. In boldness, he asked for God’s power and presence…and because of Daniel’s prayers, significant changes occurred in his nation and to its king.

What are the most common elements found in your prayer life? It’s easy to “pray lite” with a mild concern for what’s happening in your country, but if you long to see God move in America, you must go deeper. With boldness, seek the heart of Christ and the will of God. Pursue His presence with prayerful purpose and passion, and when you do, like Daniel, you will see a change…to His glory!

Recommended Reading: Daniel 9:17-23

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Break Time

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Fitness gurus know you don’t build muscles by lifting weights alone. Heavy workouts actually tear down muscle. The strength comes through rest. A period of inactivity is necessary to allow muscles to rebuild – and become stronger than before.

In plowing time and in harvest you shall rest.  Exodus 34:21

God, the Creator of the all things including the human body, was well aware of the benefits of taking a break. Rest isn’t just beneficial; it’s vital. When God gave the commandment to rest, He knew what was best. A respite is not only good for muscles, it helps you lose weight, stay focused, improve memory, increase creativity and even live longer. Your Heavenly Father knew busyness would abound and, therefore, the tendency to skip a day off would surface. So He specifically pointed out, even during the busiest times (plowing and harvest during biblical times), you need to rest.

At least once each week, make time for break time. Stop and observe God’s beautiful creation. List His attributes. But most of all, be still and know that He is God and will be “exalted among the nations.” (Psalm 46:10) Pray today for Christians across the nation – as well as your nation’s leaders – to regularly rest and reflect on the one true God and exalt Him only.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 46

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Courage to Climb

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Craig DeMartino was an avid rock climber. Yet after falling 100 feet during a climb, it was a miracle Craig survived. As he trusted doctors to fix his broken limbs and cure the intolerable pain, Craig soon learned his Creator had a greater purpose. God brought people into his life that helped him make good choices, and he experienced one miracle after another. Now, as a renowned climber and international speaker, Craig uses his story as a powerful platform to declare Jesus Christ.

Who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.  I Corinthians 1:8

“I never intended to suffer nerve damage or have saved an ankle that hurts more than the amputation of the other one,” Craig said. “But I wouldn’t trade any part of the experience for the world. I’ve been able to see that sometimes the greatest thing God gives us isn’t just healing, but the power to endure.”

When you say “yes” to God, He gives you incredible power to influence others beyond anything you can imagine! Allow the Lord to use your challenges to climb spiritual mountains. Then, as you courageously step out and share your testimony with others, pray also for bold believers to be placed in the lives of the nation’s leaders.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:3-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Fast Acting

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At the church of Antioch, prophets and teachers worshipped, fasted and prayed. Besides Paul and Barnabas, there were Simeon, Lucius and Manaen. These men did not go out willy-nilly preaching to whoever and wherever they wanted to. They waited until they received specific instructions from the Holy Spirit, who called out Barnabas and Paul.

And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly.   Acts 13:46

These two men then preached in Cyprus, even though they encountered opposition and rejection. Bar-Jesus, a false prophet, tried to dissuade the proconsul from the truth. Paul called him “son of the devil” and told him he’d be blind for a season – and he was. The proconsul believed and Paul and Barnabas continued their mission. Some Jews embraced the gospel, but as a whole, they did not. So Paul and Barnabas preached to the Gentiles…and many received the message gladly.

Do you ever feel confused concerning God’s will for you? Do you wish to see the amazing happen in your nation, church and family? Are you as bold in your witness as you’d like to be? Follow the example of early believers. As you and other Christians fast, pray and wait on the Holy Spirit before acting, this country will likely see more miracles – and more people come to the Lord.

Recommended Reading: Luke 5:33-38

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Promises Guaranteed

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Almost everything he had ever known was gone – his home, his neighbors, and his land. He had no choice but to begin again. But he was not sorrowful; he did not despair. His countenance showed signs of gratitude and peace…for he was saved and realized it was not of his own doing. This man was Noah.

While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest…shall not cease. Genesis 8:22

All he and his family had left was a big ship, worn and torn after a year on the sea. But his first response upon disembarking was to build an altar and give thanks to God for His protection. Noah didn’t wait for times to get better. He showed himself worthy of God’s confidence in him and gave thanks immediately.

And for that, the promises God made to him are true for us today. Never again will such a calamity envelope the Earth. In fact, the Lord guarantees that “seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.” (Genesis 8:22)

Dear one, no matter your circumstance or the state of this nation, give thanks to God. Attest to all His blessings. Stand strong. Then intercede for those leaders who have turned their backs on God…that they might come to know the truth of His faithfulness.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 104:1-5, 31-34

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Endurance Endgame

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In its day, the Endurance was considered the strongest ship ever built, scrupulously designed to withstand the harshest of conditions. Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew sailed the vessel to the Antarctic in 1914 on an epic expedition. But the Endurance didn’t live up to its name. It was caught in ice, crushed and sank. But not one of Shackleton’s men died. They suffered through bitter cold, brutal storms, starvation and sickness for months until they were rescued. The men endured; the ship did not.

The one who endures to the end will be saved. Matthew 24:13

When you face difficulties, remember that the capacity to endure is placed within you by the Lord. It has very little to do with your circumstances or your possessions. A burgeoning bank account would be nice, as would a flawless family and decades of perfect health. But nobody has all those things…not for long, anyway. The more important consideration is this: will you remain faithful to God?

Pray boldly today for endurance – in your own life and in the lives of your leaders. It will be required for the difficult tasks that lie ahead. And may all Americans remember their strength always comes from the Lord.

Recommended Reading: II Timothy 2:3-13

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Be Bold Today

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Moses knew he was about to die. His days of guiding the people of Israel across the deserts to the edge of the Promised Land were complete. At the command of the Lord, he commissioned the man who’d shown the boldness of a general and the humility of a dove to take his place – Joshua.

He will not leave you or forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

They would soon enter unknown territory…thrust into cultures they’d not experienced before, and among people that could make them fearful. Moses, ever the leader, encouraged Joshua and the people. He reassured them that God would be with them, and they could hold onto their courage.

You, too, might feel there’s unfamiliar ground under your feet in America. You may long for God to give some kind of reassurance that He is near, and sometimes He does. But that’s the exception. He wants you to learn to trust His promise that He hasn’t left you or forsaken you. With that acknowledgment, you can abandon fear and be strong and of good courage.

Be bold today! Take the confident assurance of His presence into your prayer time as you intercede for America and its leaders. And remember, “fear not” isn’t a choice – it’s a commandment!

Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 31:1-8

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Stand and Share

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You see it a lot these days…people making concessions for the sake of compromise, screams for tolerance from those who are intolerant of other viewpoints, and rejection of what is right because the many who dispute it argue loudly. Where are you today? Are you in the midst of a situation that requires you to stand your ground for truth? Do you need encouragement to be unashamed of sharing the gospel of Christ?

I saw…the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God.   Revelation 6:9

Current events in this nation could give you the feeling that the enemy is winning. But know that the Lord will have the last word. The unbeliever trusts that God is gracious, kind and loving. And He is. But He is also a holy and just God who requires punishment for sin and judgment on those who oppose Him.

hen Christ comes a second time, will you be among those who are taken with Him to your heavenly home having stood firm in the truth of His Word? Do not be left behind. Pray now for strength to stand against the schemes of Satan. Then share His love and plead for this nation…that it may turn from its lying and deceitful ways to the truth of God.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18, 23-24

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Stand and Share

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You see it a lot these days…people making concessions for the sake of compromise, screams for tolerance from those who are intolerant of other viewpoints, and rejection of what is right because the many who dispute it argue loudly. Where are you today? Are you in the midst of a situation that requires you to stand your ground for truth? Do you need encouragement to be unashamed of sharing the gospel of Christ?

I saw…the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God. Revelation 6:9

Current events in this nation could give you the feeling that the enemy is winning. But know that the Lord will have the last word. The unbeliever trusts that God is gracious, kind and loving. And He is. But He is also a holy and just God who requires punishment for sin and judgment on those who oppose Him.

When Christ comes a second time, will you be among those who are taken with Him to your heavenly home having stood firm in the truth of His Word? Do not be left behind. Pray now for strength to stand against the schemes of Satan. Then share His love and plead for this nation…that it may turn from its lying and deceitful ways to the truth of God.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18, 23-24

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – A Pattern for Pastors

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Tychicus, an Asiatic Christian, accompanied the Apostle Paul on part of his journey from Macedonia to Jerusalem. He was with Paul in Rome, and sent by Paul to Colossae to build up and encourage the church there. He’s mentioned five times in the New Testament.

Tychicus…is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. Colossians 4:7

He stands as a shining example for ministers and pastors today. First and foremost, he was faithful and reliable in everything. Tychicus was greatly loved and returned that compassion to the Lord and His people. He was God’s servant, not exalting himself with trappings of greatness. Paul called him a “fellow” servant – his equal. Tychicus measured up to the high calling of the Lord in his life.

Is there a Tychicus in your church? A pastor who loves the Lord and His word, who holds out hands to help, who follows Jesus’ admonitions toward the poor, and seeks the lost? Is he growing in holiness? If he is, or even if he seems to fall short, pray for him – that he will have time of refreshment with the Lord daily, and that he will be steadfast to all of God’s Word. Churches will strengthen and America will be enriched as more ministers measure up to the pattern set by Tychicus.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 3:4-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Conversation Starters

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During the very first phone call in 1876, Alexander Graham Bell said, “Mr. Watson, come here. I want to see you.” In reply, his assistant came from the next room and told Bell he heard and understood.

God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.  I Corinthians 1:9

A conversation takes two. That’s obvious, but the same goes with your relationship with God. He calls people into fellowship of His Son and wants people from all over to call to Him (I Corinthians 1:2). When God speaks, He expects you to listen (Psalm 81:8), and when you speak, His “ears are open” to your prayers (I Peter 3:12). He also gave believers the Holy Spirit to aid communication. “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.” (Romans 8:26) Plus, as you commune with God, you’ll keep your love for Him burning bright and hot.

Call on the Lord. He is faithful to hear and answer your prayers. Pray He’ll extend His mercy and grace to the United States. And take a few moments to listen and reply to His words. You’ll enjoy the conversation.

Recommended Reading: Revelation 3:14-22

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M.- Because of Jesus

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Business is not all rosy for Barronelle Stutzman who owns the florist shop, Arlene’s Flowers, in the state of Washington. The Attorney General’s office filed a lawsuit against Stutzman because she refused to provide wedding flowers for a same-sex ceremony. Stutzman told a homosexual customer, “I’m sorry, I can’t do your wedding because of my relationship with Jesus Christ.” The American Civil Liberties Union is also suing her for money damages and lawyer’s fees that could cripple or destroy her business.

Yet you hold fast my name, and you did not deny my faith.  Revelation 2:13

As a faithful follower of Jesus Christ, there are times when you may be viewed as a rabble-rouser. While you should try to live at peace with everyone, conflict with the world and its authorities is sometimes inevitable. However, the Bible says, “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)

Jesus also says, “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man!” (Luke 6:22) God never promises an easy life, but He does promise to be with you through your difficulties. Thank Him today for His faithfulness. Then pray for the nation’s leaders, and that they would choose to honor God in their lobbying and voting decisions.

Recommended Reading: I Timothy 2:1-8

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – No More Accommodation

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All July you’ve been reading about God’s unchangeable faithfulness to you. What about yours to Him?

If we are faithless, he remains faithful.   II Timothy 2:13

American patriot Patrick Henry wrote: “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded not by religionists, but by Christians – not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

As a nation, America has accommodated the world’s values, abandoning Godly paths and principles. Congress has all but legislated God out of existence. Military chaplains can’t have Bibles on their desks. Prayers are forbidden at graduations. Religious freedom is challenged in the courts. And yet, when tornados tear through Oklahoma or hurricanes blast the Gulf Coast, God is suddenly acknowledged…though, sadly – He gets the blame.

It is time for spiritual change in the United States, and that begins with you standing on biblical principles, not giving accommodation to the conspiracy of silence in order to be seen as politically correct. Then tell others the many ways God has been faithful to you. Place yourself and America squarely before the Lord as you pray today. Ask for the fire of revival to fall upon this nation, top down and bottom up – that America might once again become a nation of faithful people.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 14

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – By Name

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If you watch the Oscars, you’ll witness the actors singing each other’s praises. They might say, “His timing is perfect!”, “Her dedication is amazing!” or “Though he is veteran actor, he makes us newbies feel like family.” They don’t say, “Oh, praise Tom Hanks, praise Tom Cruise, praise Meryl Streep!”

Sing to him; sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works!   I Chronicles 16:9

When the author of Chronicles praised God, he listed specific attributes: strength, miracles, right judgments. In the Psalms, David honored God for His loving kindness, His mercies, and for being a refuge in times of trouble. When you praise the Lord for specific things in your life, you will not only please Him, but also testify to others that God is real, loving and answers your prayers. Plus, when you exalt God in this way, you build up your own faith.

Today, give thanks for His specific characteristics and deeds. Worship Him by name, and declare it often! Then pray that Christian leaders in this nation will praise God in such a way that fellow leaders, citizens and all the world will marvel at His goodness.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 100

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Responsibility Reminder

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After President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, new President Lyndon Johnson wanted Earl Warren, then Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, to head up an investigation. When Warren refused, Johnson called him to the White House. “You’ve been in uniform before,” Johnson told him, “and if I asked you, you would put on the uniform again for your country.” “Of course,” Warren replied. “This is more important than that,” Johnson told him. “If you’re putting it like that,” Warren replied, “I can’t say no.”

The words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation. Revelation 3:14

Jesus (through John) opens His letter to the Church in Laodicea – a congregation marked by lackadaisicalness to spiritual matters – by referring them to their Christian obligations. Their focus was not on answering God’s call but was actually on material wealth. “This is more important than that,” Christ was saying.

Are you prepared and willing to “put on the whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6:11) or are you content to be an apathetic bystander? As you pray for America and its leaders, let God know you are ready and desirous to be used however He needs you. You have an incredible responsibility to the Lord and this nation. You can’t say no!

Recommended Reading: Titus 3:1-8

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Positional and Practical Relationship

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Blameless…how is that possible? If you are honest with yourself, you can see where you go amiss in so many ways. But don’t let this condition dishearten you. Old Testament believers like David wrote of his own blamelessness: “I have kept the ways of the Lord…I was blameless before him.” (Psalm 18:21, 23) He based this thought on his motives for his actions. He sought to live God’s way and reject wickedness…but if he did not, he confessed and sacrificed to have restoration.

You shall be blameless before the Lord your God.  Deuteronomy 18:13

Sacrifices are not required today because Jesus was your sacrifice on the cross. He suffered the punishment for all the times you have fallen – and will fall short – of God’s commands for you. Christ has positioned Himself between you and the Father; His view of you is through the spotless, blameless Savior. The practical part of this relationship is that you live with ethical and moral uprightness. The Lord desires it of you.

Today’s cultural climate in government, and maybe even at your workplace, abounds in wickedness and selfish desires. Pray that you would not be drawn into it. Trust God. Then intercede for those who lead…that they may seek the Lord and walk blameless before Him.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 2:3-15

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – No, You Can’t Have It All

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In 1985 Michelob’s light beer commercial proclaimed that “You can have it all!” Other Madison Avenue advertising messages tell you to “Go for the gusto,” or “Have it your way.” They’re enticing offers to a promised richer, fuller life.

Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? James 4:4

But James warns there are necessary choices to be made. He says friendship with the world is the wrong decision if you want peace with God. The Greek verb “phileo” is the root of friendship, and it means “to love, or to have affection for.” It isn’t a casual word. When you have great affection for something, it holds your attention – whether that something is a better career, financial security, a retirement cabin in the mountains, or two rounds of golf each weekend. Whatever it is in the world’s egocentric system, you must not allow its siren song to draw you away from the Lord.

God reacts with holy jealousy when you are enamored with anything other than Him. Do a self-check. Let your love for Jesus and the Father be your priority. As you pray for the nation, intercede that Americans will seek God and experience the blessings He has for those who want all He offers as they submit to His Lordship.

Recommended Reading: James 4:1-10

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Ultimate Say

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Here’s a new word for today: “primogeniture.” While you probably won’t use this word much in conversation, its meaning has impacted you and your world in unimaginable ways.

Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. Revelation 1:5

Primogeniture is the right, by law or custom, of the firstborn son to inherit the entire estate. In its various forms, every culture owes countless marriages, wars, intrigues and alliances to this concept. The role of a firstborn, even today, still determines how inheritance is governed around the globe.

In the Bible, Jesus Christ is presented as the first and only son of God. And when He allowed Himself to be sacrificed at the hands of men, He also became the first one to conquer death. His inheritance is a foundational, universal and all-encompassing power. He has complete authority to rule over everyone and everything in the created universe.

America is not governed solely by elected officials. Christ as ruler of the universe has ultimate say in what is allowed to be. Today, pray fervently for America as a nation. Ask that its people and leaders may find favor in God’s generous mercy…and that the abundant grace of the inherited Son of God, Jesus Christ, will abide upon each one.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 1:1-8

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Reflect Your Trust

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Sometime between 701 and 681 BC, the prophet Isaiah predicted the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14) Seven hundred years later, a young virgin named Mary gave birth to the Son of God.

A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he. Deuteronomy 32:4

As amazing as it is, Christians shouldn’t be surprised when Bible prophecies come true. When God makes a promise, He keeps it. As today’s verse points out, He is a God of faithfulness. You can count on the Lord to do what He says. He will never leave or forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:8). He will give you strength (Psalm 89:21). He will work things out for good (Romans 8:28). He grants new life through Christ (II Corinthians 5:17).

God also promises to heal the nation (II Chronicles 7:14). Do you genuinely believe your Heavenly Father always keeps His word? Be sure to live your life that way. Then pray today your words and deeds will reflect your trust in a faithful God. Ask Him to heal this nation as His people seek Him, and prove to those in political office how just and upright He is.

Recommended Reading: II Chronicles 7:11-22

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – His Replica

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“Like father, like son” can be a good thing…or not! Sometimes positive traits of a parent are passed on to a child, interspersed with some unbecoming characteristics. So how does a child learn these things? Many say that the most effective way it’s taught is by example.

That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord.   I Corinthians 4:17

Today’s verse indicates that Paul taught Timothy well. Paul’s attitudes and actions were right in line with the principles he espoused. He became Timothy’s spiritual father, and had confidence that his faithful son would disciple the Corinthians in the way he had. Timothy was his replica. His Christlike demeanor, character and conduct would remind the people of Paul’s admonitions to live by as imitators of Jesus.

What model are you displaying before your children or to the people with whom you are in contact? Can you truthfully say that you disciple others by living the principles set forth by God? Take time today to pray that you might be the witness for the Lord that He desires…one who is faithful to Him. Let your light shine in this nation – in your neighborhood – where good examples are hard to find.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 5:3-11, 14-16