Tag Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Focus Fix

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Suppose, for a moment, you are the president, and you have made the decision to respond to all your critics. You’ve determined that to protect your character, an immediate rebuttal is required for every lie, allegation and disparaging word. Here is what you are up against: there are 1,700 television stations in the United States; about 14,000 radio stations, and 1,000-plus daily newspapers. If each of them publishes just one criticism of you per week, you would need to address thousands of criticisms every single day…and that’s before you begin tackling the criticism on hundreds of thousands of websites.

Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

Colossians 3:2

It can’t be done, and any good president would not waste his time on it – there are more important things to do. So why do you waste time responding to criticism, trying to get even, or wallowing in the misery others would foist upon you? There are more important things to do…heavenly-focused things.

Today, ask God to help you look beyond the earthly and unimportant to the eternal and the extraordinary. That’s the way you’ll make a difference in your neighborhood, and your nation, today!

Recommended Reading: II Corinthians 4:7-18

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Facing Tomorrow

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Her village was seized by Islamic State and she’s now living a rough life in an unfinished mall in Kurdish-protected Northern Iraq. This displaced nine-year-old Christian refugee child asked God to forgive the ISIS militants. Little Myriam said, “God provides for us. He loves us. Jesus will be with us no matter where we go.” Though a child, Myriam understands faith in Christ and the power of His resurrection in her life. Unfortunately, she may yet be forced to face untimely death at the hands of Islamic State.

That I may know him and the power of his resurrection.

Philippians 3:10

In America, some Christians are being harassed for their values or facing legal bullying for standing for biblical principles. But the persecution that faces Myriam and others like her in the Middle East has not yet arrived in this nation. Pray, indeed, that it does not!

Your charge as you face whatever tomorrow brings is to press on – to strain forward – toward the eternal citizenship in Heaven awaiting all who believe, and it takes resurrection power to do that. Avail yourself of that as you pray for America and those in authority…that they, too, might find the strength to endure through God who loves them.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 3:8-16

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Blinded

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In his commentary, Matthew Henry observed: “A good man is ashamed to speak that which many wicked people are not ashamed to act.” Coincidentally, a great many of those acts take place in darkness.

Walk as children of light.

Ephesians 5:8

Darkness is a powerful scriptural image. Believers are to put aside “the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.” (Romans 13:12) But more than a lifestyle, darkness is an evil power which can hold you in its claws. No fate is as grim as that which awaits those who march behind “the prince of the power of the air.” (Ephesians 2:2) It is Satan who would lead you to destruction under the divine wrath of God. The only hope for the one in the grip of darkness is the light provided by Jesus (John 1:5). Those who believe in Him are rescued from the realm of darkness to become children of light. As that child, let your lifestyle and conversation of what is good and right and true testify to the joy you have in Christ (Ephesians 5:9).

Satan blinds the lost so they cannot see the light of the truth. Intercede, then, for this nation and its leaders that God will open their eyes to see and trust in Jesus as Lord.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 5:3-11, 18-21

 

Our Daily Bread

Our Daily Bread — Hope Lives

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Read: 1 Peter 1:3-9
Bible in a Year: 2 Samuel 19-20; Luke 18:1-23

Your faith, being much more precious than gold . . . may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ. —1 Peter 1:7

When unspeakable tragedy shatters people’s lives, they search for answers. Recently, a mother who had lost a teenager said to me, “I can’t figure it out. I don’t know if I can believe anymore. I try, but God doesn’t make sense to me. What does it all mean?” There are no easy answers to such big concerns. But for those who have trusted Christ, there is hope—whether we are basking in blessings or grinding through grief.

Peter spells this out in his first letter. In glowing terms, he praises God for our “new birth into a living hope” (1 Peter 1:3 niv) through our salvation. That hope can bring joy even in the middle of tragedy. He also assures us of the permanence of this hope (v.4). He then tells us of the heart-breaking reality that we may “suffer grief in all kinds of trials” (v.6 niv). Those who have suffered loss turn hopeful hearts toward Peter’s next words: These come so that “your faith . . . may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (v.7).

Trials—seemingly random and inexplicable—can be seen differently in the light of these words. In the midst of tragedy, the power and beauty of our salvation can shine through because of our great Savior. And that may be just enough light to get a troubled person through another day. —Dave Branon

The light of salvation shines clearly even in the darkest night.

Lord, You assure us that the grand salvation You provided is proved genuine in our pain and that it leads to glory for You. Help us to begin each new day with renewed hope in You.

INSIGHT: The hope that Peter describes in today’s reading is also a major theme of Paul’s letter to the Romans. In Romans 5:5 he describes this hope as a reality that flows from our growth in Christ. In Romans 8 he discusses our hope as something we anticipate from our salvation. Romans 12:12 reminds us that hope is grounds for great joy. Romans 15 describes hope as something we learn through trials, yet something that is characteristic of our God (v. 13). Clearly, to Paul and to Peter, hope is very important in the life of faith.
Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – We Are Family

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Nobody knows where it started, but many years ago in some dastardly corporate boardroom somebody came up with the idea of referring to employees as “family.” It was a way to make workers feel more connected to their jobs. No doubt you have experienced this in places you have worked: “Welcome to the (name of company) family,” or, “We are one big family here!” It’s a nice sentiment, but false. With a real family, you don’t clock in or clock out, you usually don’t worry about getting fired or laid off, and your parents didn’t jettison you the moment your “return on investment” looked shaky.

So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.

Galatians 4:7

In truth, the term “family” is used loosely these days. Certain people in government and society are working feverishly to water down the definition of family to mean almost anything. But when God calls you His child, it has special, permanent meaning. You cannot be discharged from the family, and you have an inheritance that cannot be lost.

As you pray for America today, ask God to use you to welcome others into the only family that really matters – and will last for all eternity!

Recommended Reading: I John 3:1-11

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Personal and Shared

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For years, Oprah Winfrey would occasionally give gifts of her favorite things to her studio audience. Many will recall when she surprised a group of military wives with gifts so astounding it brought them to tears. Some gifts were personal: spa visits or lingerie; but others were meant to be shared, like trips and truffles.

Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!

II Corinthians 9:15

If you’ve received God’s inexpressible gift of salvation through Jesus Christ the risen Lord, then you know it is both personal and to be shared. Abounding, immeasurable grace is God’s promise to you when you open your sharing heart. His intent is not only that you share the gift of salvation, but that you generously give financially to others who are in need or are in the business of pointing others toward Christ. Giving is a responsibility to be pursued with cheer.

As you pray today, thank God for His abundance toward you, then inquire about your giving efficiency to your local ministries and for your Prayer Team. Intercede boldly for President Obama and America’s leaders to find that favorite gift for themselves – the best and greatest gift ever given and at so great a cost – Jesus!

Recommended Reading: II Corinthians 9:6-15

 

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Outcomes

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Millennials, the generation born between 1980 and 2000, have been accused of being lazy – but what generation hasn’t? By nature and through readily accessible technology, Millennials expect “efficiency of effort for maximum impact”…in other words, the best outcome with the least work.

No one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit.

I Corinthians 12:3

Robert A. Heinlein’s story, “The Man Who Was Too Lazy to Fail,” tells of an enterprising hero charged with milking cows. He didn’t enjoy being up at dawn, but he’d been told it was the time of day cows required milking. This Millennial-thinking guy soon discovered cows didn’t actually care about the time of day; they cared only about frequency and results. Ultimately, he had the cows’ schedule and a successful business on his terms.

Coming generations will have to overcome a cultivated tendency to do things in their own way to understand God’s plan for their salvation – because there is no other way to know God than through His risen Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Today, pray that Holy Spirit will move upon America’s future leaders so they will be open to welcoming God’s way to know Him, submitting their lives and the nation they will lead to the power of the risen Lord…the very best outcome of all.

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 60:1-5

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Set Free

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Roman Gutierrez vowed to die of a heroin overdose just like his dad. At age 11, Roman jabbed a needle in his arm. Then his rage continued with an arrest, violence and more suicide attempts. By age 25, Roman was living under a freeway and participating in cage fighting. After another failed attempt to end his life, Roman promised his mother he would go to church.

Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.

Romans 14:9

When Roman walked into the church, he felt something happen in his heart: “If you will call on His name, you will be free,” the pastor said. Roman prayed, “God, I am sorry for all my sins. I need your forgiveness. I believe Jesus died in my place and shed blood to cleanse me. I believe you rose from the dead and are alive to help me. I give you my life.”

The Lord left His closest friends – and all believers – with these last words of instruction: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19) As you pray for the nation, look for opportunities to share the message of eternal freedom with your friends, neighbors and co-workers…so they may be set free!

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Glorious Sequel

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When movies are box office hits, audiences crave a sequel. When the President of the United States has a great four-year term, you can most assuredly expect him to run for a second. When dinner is delicious, you may ask for another helping. When people experience things they love, they always want a continuation of a good thing.

Some mocked. But others said, “We will hear you again about this.”

Acts 17:32

Some of Paul’s listeners in today’s key verse felt the same way when they heard the incredible story of Jesus and about His resurrection from the dead. This has always been the case when the gospel is presented – some mock and others want more. “For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (I Corinthians 1:18)

Many Americans disregard the name of Christ, but don’t let that dissuade you from sharing about His resurrection and love. Ask God to open the hearts of your fellow Americans and its leaders to the good news of Jesus…and get excited! Christ’s return – His glorious sequel – is coming!

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 9:19-28

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – It’s All About Life

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He wasn’t a journalist or a biographer. His aim was not just to give you the facts. He wanted you to understand the person and purpose of the man who claimed to be the Son of God. Thus, two-thirds of the disciple John’s book focuses on the last week of Jesus’ life. His narrative spotlights the redemptive aspect of this individual called the Messiah – the One who came to save you from your sin.

These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.

John 20:31

This Jesus was with God at creation and gave up glory to be confined to a fleshly body (John 1:1-18)…only to suffer the greatest shame and death. But Scripture tells you, and the believers of generations confirm, that He rose from the dead, appeared to hundreds, and now sits at the right hand of God (Romans 8:34).

Jesus came so you might believe, “and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:31) Bible scholar R.C. Sproul wrote: “People who don’t have Christ, don’t have life, and they don’t even know it.” Pray for the Lord to work in the lives of the people of this nation and its leaders…so they might believe and have life.

Recommended Reading: John 20:24-31

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – In Come Free

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Do you remember playing hide and seek as a child? “It” stayed at home base while the rest of the players hid. As soon as “It” was done counting, he yelled, “Here I come, ready or not!” When players couldn’t be found, he shouted, “Ollie, Ollie, in come free!”…and they’d come in free and clear.

Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen.

Luke 24:5-6

In today’s verse, the angel who waited at the tomb had a slightly humorous question for the women who brought the burial spices. Jesus was not with the dead, but the living…and that’s where He is now. When you received Christ, you became spiritually alive. You were reborn with the Holy Spirit living inside you. You are equipped for the new life, and when your body dies, you will live with Him forever in Heaven.

Thank God for eternal salvation. Pray for those who still are looking for their hope among the dead, that they will seek out the living Lord and receive His eternal life. Pray for the people of the United States to hear the call to freedom.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 10:19-25

 

 

Study in Psalms for 2015

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Service Sidestep

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Many voters prefer a presidential candidate who has served, and served heroically, in the military. Bill Clinton drew scorn after it was learned he had once said he “loathed” the military, George W. Bush was criticized because he allegedly joined the National Guard to avoid Vietnam. But the history of future presidents sidestepping military service goes way, way back. Chester Arthur and Grover Cleveland both paid a “substitute” the sum of $300 to take their place in the Union Army during the Civil War. It was perfectly legal – though certainly lacking in patriotism by today’s standards.

If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.

Mark 9:35

There is no “substitute” permitted when it comes to the work God has called you to do. It cannot be left to another and it must not be deferred. Supporting the work of the Lord financially – whether it’s the church you attend, a local food pantry, or a missionary on a foreign field – is important, but your first instinct should always be like that of the prophet Isaiah, who said: “Here I am! Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)

As you pray for America today, tell God you are willing to be a “servant of all.” Be fervent, constant, and rejoicing in your service.

Recommended Reading: Romans 12:9-21

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G.  – When is Soon?

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Christian author Tim LaHaye wrote in a recent book, “Christ could come today, and no prophecy of the end times necessary for His coming would go unfulfilled.” In His discourse at the Mount of Olives, Jesus outlined many of the essentials that would precede His return – and He cautioned that the time would be soon. For over 2,000 years, believers have been asking, “How soon is soon?” and the answer the Lord gives today is the same as it was then: “Stay awake!”

Therefore, stay awake.

Matthew 24:42

A rehashing of the signs of the end times isn’t necessary – you are living it! Ready, on the other hand, does not seem to be an apt description of what was gloriously once called “Christian America.” Readiness first requires repentance and faith…acknowledgment and sorrow for sin and belief that Jesus died and rose again to save sinners. Only then is a person positioned to go about the business of sharing the message of God’s love.

Don’t be an asleep-in-your-comforts Christian. Stay watchful so as not to be deceived or robbed of your faith. But don’t be in a panic, either. Live out your salvation by pursuing the power of prayer for your family, friends, community, and national leaders…while “soon” still delays.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 24:32-44

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Cloudy Days

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On April 5, NBC launched a miniseries entitled “A.D.” a follow up to the “The Bible” produced by Roma Downey and Mark Burnett. It was reported during filming that while the actors were depicting a scene from Acts, they noticed clouds in the sky formed in the perfect shape of a cross. Downey said they felt it was a sign and a blessing over the work they were doing to bring the Bible to the screen.

Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him.

Revelation 1:7

Clouds are mentioned often in the Bible. A cloud guided the Israelites through the wilderness (Exodus 40:36). God spoke from a cloud to Moses on Mt. Sinai (Exodus 24:16) and to the select witnesses at the transfiguration of Jesus (Matthew 17:5). Jesus ascended to Heaven after His resurrection in a cloud (Acts 1:9). Today’s verse tells how Christ will return – on clouds of glory.

How many will be ready for His return? Pray today for the nation’s citizens and leaders to trust Christ as their Savior. Ask, too, for revival…so that all may hear of and prepare for His coming.

Recommended Reading: Mark 13:4-13, 24-27

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Someone Out There

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America is a nation founded and nurtured on prayer. However, according to a recent Pew Report, prayer in America has “gone rogue.” In other words, anything goes: from spirit drumming to mystical chanting. People across the USA are praying, but most confess they are merely addressing “someone out there.”

We always pray for you, that our God…may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith.

II Thessalonians 1:11

In 1787, about five weeks into the Constitutional Convention, the framers were frustrated in their attempts to draft the U. S. Constitution. Benjamin Franklin challenged them to return earnestly in prayer to God on behalf of their nation. He asked, “If a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? We have been assured that ‘except the Lord build the House, they labor in vain that build it.’”

God is still shaping America’s future in the hearts of those who seek Him. Today, pray specifically for those blindly praying to “someone” that they may discover the true identity of God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ; placing all hope for themselves, and for America, in His great power.

Recommended Reading: I Timothy 2:1-8

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Cry Out

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Keith Thibodeaux was cast in 1956 as Little Ricky, the drum-playing son of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz on the hit series “I Love Lucy.” Thibodeaux’s abilities led him to a national tour and various acting stints on many shows. Yet the former child star left Hollywood at age 15 after his parents’ divorce. He joined a band called David and the Giants and got involved with drugs. That’s when Thibodeaux realized he needed help.

His Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus…delivers us from the wrath to come.

I Thessalonians 1:10

“I needed a Savior because I got down to the end of my rope when I was playing rock,” he said, “and just went down into the drug world and I was clinically depressed. It was at that point God answered my prayer – my cry. I found Jesus. And God did the work in my life.”

“For God has not destined us for wrath,” I Thessalonians 5:9 says, “but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Every person has the opportunity to turn from sin and embrace the love of God for eternity. Pray that all Americans and their leaders would, like Thibodeaux, cry out to the Lord as the source of their eternal peace.

Recommended Reading: Romans 13:8-14

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Pre-qualified

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Want a new job? You must meet the position qualifications. Want to compete in the Olympics? You’ll have to qualify. Thinking of running for office? Qualifications are necessary there, too. You must qualify for a loan, college, health insurance, food stamps and club memberships.

Thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.

Colossians 1:12

But there is one thing for which you have earned pre-qualified status – an inheritance in Heaven. Jesus Christ qualified you for that with His own blood. God wanted you to spend eternity with Him so much, He allowed His own child to die in order for you to be deemed worthy. You qualify! There isn’t a list of requirements in order for you to receive salvation. All you have to do is accept the gift.

In a world where restrictions are placed on every position and opportunity, your salvation is pre-qualified. Take time now to thank God for His free gift. Praise Jesus for paying the price for you to share in His inheritance. Pray, too, for your national leaders to accept their pre-qualification status.

Recommended Reading: Romans 10:5-13

 

Campus Crusade for Christ

Campus Crusade for Christ; Bill Bright – As Much As We Need 

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“But you should divide with them. Right now you have plenty and can help them; then at some other time they can share with you when you need it. In this way each will have as much as he needs” (2 Corinthians 8:14).

I like Paul’s emphasis on spiritual equality. In his letter to the church at Corinth, this principle is clearly expressed:

“You can help them…they can share with you…each will have as much as he needs.”

Not one of us is a total body within himself; collectively, we are the body of Christ.

The hand can accomplish only certain kinds of functions.

The eyes cannot physically grasp objects, but they can see them.

The ears cannot transport the body like feet can, but ears can hear many sounds.

The hand needs the eye, and the eye needs the hand. All parts of the body need each other in order to function as a healthy body.

Are the parts the same? No. Do they have equality? Yes.

While the Christians at Corinth possessed all the spiritual gifts, they were not glorifying Christ or building up one another. Instead, they were glorifying themselves, glorifying their special gifts, and exercising their gifts in the flesh instead of in the power and control of the Holy Spirit.

Time and again, the apostle Paul stressed to the Corinthians that an atmosphere of godly love, agape, must prevail or the exercising of their gifts would be fruitless.

Bible Reading: II Corinthians 8:7-15

TODAY’S ACTION POINT:  I will be content with my place in the Body of Christ, whether it be large or small, realizing that every part of the body is vitally important in God’s kingdom.

 

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Message First

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The apostle Paul knew there was more than one way to get things done. He was in Rome, imprisoned, and false friends and enemies were taking advantage of that situation. In fact, they were preaching Christ out of envy and rivalry, wishing only to cause more grief to Paul. But his response was one of joy – not in their motivation, but in the results…to advance the gospel and save souls.

Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed.

Philippians 1:18

He was not the first to realize that Jesus and His message must come first. John the Baptist spoke of Christ’s coming and announced, “Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:29-30) Each man knew his message: to let others know the salvation offered through Jesus, their Lord and Savior.

Do you have that desire? Let Christ be magnified in you. Be transformed to the will of God that you might be His instrument, not discouraged by others, but encouraged by the Holy Spirit through prayer for yourself and for the leaders of this nation. May they learn to know and trust in Jesus as Lord.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:12-21, 27-28

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – With Him

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When Jesus went into the grave, your sin went with Him (Ephesians 2:2). When He rose, if you believe, your spirit rose with Him (2:5). When He returned to Heaven, spiritually speaking, you are seated with Him in heavenly places (2:6). Now His Spirit lives inside of you (I Corinthians 6:19) and “if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11)

Made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved.

Ephesians 2:5

Until that day, what are believers to do? You are not saved by good works, but you are called to do them (Ephesians 2:8-10). You are to use whatever gift you have to serve others (I Peter 4:10). Consider your skills, talents and resources, and how you can use one of them to help someone this week – not to earn your salvation, but in gratitude for it.

Pray, too, for your leaders and the citizens of this nation to receive the free gift of salvation and do the good works they are called to do.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-17