Tag Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Fan the Flame

October 24, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

It’s easy to watch today’s news and become fearful. Yet Paul conquered fear by knowing God’s power. “For I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.” (II Timothy 1:12) He persevered by knowing God’s love. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) He overcame fear of those opposed to him with a sound mind. “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God…But we have the mind of Christ.” (I Corinthians 2:14, 16)

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.

II Timothy 1:7

In the passage preceding today’s verse, Paul encouraged Timothy – and you – to “fan into flame the gift of God” because He gives power, love and self-control to offset all fear. You ignite this through studying the Bible, worship and prayer.

So watch the news. Learn what’s going on in America and the world. Then fearlessly take all those issues to God, asking Him to work in the lives of citizens and leaders so they can know Jesus as Savior and abide in His love.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Your Expectation

October 23, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

It’s a privilege, the relationship you can have with God. Charles Spurgeon once said that His Word is as a two-edged sword slicing away your pride with one edge and your despair with the other. In the many forms of His mercy, He counteracts the tendencies of evil. God is ready to respond when you call on Him. He will forgive your sins when you truly repent and turn away from them. The Lord of life wishes to be the treasure of your heart – a full portion of all that you need and all that gives you hope.

You came near when I called on you; you said, “Do not fear!”

Lamentations 3:57

The writer of Lamentations saw the wickedness of the people of Israel and knew that God had withdrawn His hand from them in judgment. Yet he knew that the prayers of a contrite heart reach the ears of this just God. He understood that the Lord would provide daily help for daily needs.

Let this be your expectation as well. Then pray for this nation – its people and its leaders – that they would set aside their wicked, selfish ways and turn to the Lord who will respond to their call with His presence.

Recommended Reading: Lamentations 3:19-26, 31-32

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W.- The Crown That’s Coming

October 22, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Watch the news and you’ll see stories of Christians persecuted in other countries. But are believers in Jesus persecuted in America? According to the recent study “Undeniable: The Survey of Hostility to Religion in America” produced by the Family Research Council and the Liberty Institute, they definitely are. People are receiving fines or going to jail for holding home Bible studies; students are being banned from praying before sporting events; and Christian ministries are experiencing more-than-normal scrutiny from the IRS. Many believers are fearful it will only get worse.

Don’t fear what you are about to suffer…Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.

Revelation 2:10

Today’s scripture was written to the church in Smyrna. Christians there suffered hunger, poverty, imprisonment and sometimes death for their faith. However, Jesus knew this and encouraged them to not be afraid, but look to the “crown of life” they would one day receive.

The same applies to you today. Even in the midst of suffering, testing or persecution, don’t fear. Stay faithful to receive the crown that’s coming. Also pray for the nation and its leaders to recognize the pattern of persecution forming in America and protect religious freedom.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Fast, Pray and Proceed

October 21, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Queen Esther had an intimidating choice to make. Risk her life by approaching the king without a summons or risk losing the entire Jewish people. Her cousin Mordecai thought God placed her in the king’s court for just “such a time as this.” (Esther 4:14)

I and my young women will also fast as you do. Then I will go to the king, though it is against the law, and if I perish, I perish.

Esther 4:16

Perhaps you, too, are in a place to make a difference for the Lord but are experiencing fear. Learn from Esther in today’s verse. First, she fasted and prayed. Fasting is a great way to set aside special time to seek God and His counsel. After looking for wisdom from her Lord, Esther showed courage in the face of danger. She knew only one course of action to save her people – and she proceeded, not even knowing the outcome.

What is causing anxiety in your life? Take some advice from a wise and lovingly remembered queen: fast and pray, and then proceed with courage. Pray, too, for your nation’s leaders to seek God in the decisions they must make for America, and to appreciate and revere the fact that they were chosen for this time.

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W.- Don’t Let Up

October 20, 2014 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

In 1722, Nicholas Ludwig von Zinzendorf, a rich young ruler in Saxony, Germany, was troubled over Moravian Christians being exiled by the Catholic Church. He established a community on his land known as Herrnhut, meaning “Under the Lord’s Watch,” where they could live. By August 1726, 300 Moravians lived there. In August 1727, 24 men and 24 women agreed to spend an hour each day praying around the clock. Others joined and a month passed, then a year, then a decade. The prayer continued for an entire century.

And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you.

Colossians 1:9

They prayed for specific needs, but also for revival and evangelism. In August 1732, they sent out their first missionaries. During the first two years, 22 missionaries perished and two were imprisoned, but others replaced them. The missionaries were fearful, but still they went. In all, 70 missionaries came from Herrnhut. Knowing they were surrounded by constant prayer, they were empowered to do God’s calling.

In today’s scripture, Paul tells the Colossians he hasn’t ceased praying for them. His prayers strengthened the church and allowed them overcome their problems. Are you facing a trial or fearful situation? Start praying now – and don’t let up. Also ask others to intercede for you and for the nation to experience revival.

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Descent to Deliverance

October 19, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

God had a specific mission for Jonah. The Lord directed him to Nineveh to preach to the Assyrians. However, Jonah refused and ran in the opposite direction. The Hebrew text says Jonah went “down” to Joppa, “down” into the hold of the ship, and eventually was tossed “down” into the sea where he was swallowed by a giant fish. This paints a picture of spiritual descent that resulted from his disobedience and rebellion.

I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me; out of the belly of Sheol I cried, and you heard my voice.

Jonah 2:2

In today’s verse, Sheol represented a grave and the fish’s stomach was metaphorically like a tomb. Yet Jonah eventually had a change of heart and thanked the Lord for saving him from drowning in such a miraculous way. God heard Jonah’s prayer from inside the fish and delivered him to continue his mission.

Always know that you can trust your Heavenly Father with your past, present and future. Even when circumstances appear stormy, remember that He is with you, hears your prayers, and will help you fulfill His purposes as you give your humble obedience. Pray also that America’s leaders who are running from God would turn their hearts toward His love, mercy and grace.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Instant Obscurity

October 18, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

President Edmund Muskie? It doesn’t ring a bell, because it never was…though it might have been. Muskie was a 1972 presidential candidate who cried uncontrollably in an interview. When word got out of his emotional breakdown, he was finished as a candidate.

But now for a brief moment favor has been shown by the Lord our God, to leave us a remnant and to give us a secure hold within his holy place.

Ezra 9:8

The pages of American history are replete with “might have beens,” men who seemed destined for the White House until some scandal or weakness was exposed. Once voters turn against politicians, there is seldom any way back. Men accustomed to having every word parsed and praised find themselves immediately forgotten and toiling away in some obscure job or slipping quietly into retirement.

The Book of Ezra records a time when a once-proud people had been abandoned and seemingly forgotten—not by voters, but by God. But His rejection was not irreversible. There was a “brief moment” in which his favor could be rekindled, if the people would change their ways. Could this be such a moment for America? It will be if the nation and her leaders seek the “secure hold” of God and His Word. Pray today that it will be so!

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – What More You Can Do

October 17, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

What do you do when you are stressed out and anxious? If you’re like many Christians, you correctly read the Psalms, or any of His other promises, and your mind is comforted and faith replaces fear. But what more can you do when threats are real, your destruction imminent?

I continued fasting and praying before the God of heaven.

Nehemiah 1:4

Nehemiah was no stranger to danger. One of his jobs as cupbearer was to taste the king’s food and drink to make sure it wasn’t poisonous. When he was given permission to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild the walls, he knew that he would have potentially fatal opposition – so he turned to God in fasting and prayer. In both the Old and New Testaments, when God’s people were hard pressed, they prayed and fasted.

Today, America faces real threats. It’s time to intensify your efforts to do something about it. As the Lord leads, begin a habit of fasting. Couple that with increased and concentrated prayer for America and its people. Plead for revival in these last days. Vanquish your fear and confront your spiritual enemy. Deliverance will be yours!

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K.- Dynamic Force

October 16, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The scuba diver dons his equipment so he can function in a world alien to him: under water. You as a believer in Christ must possess special equipment – the indwelling Spirit of God – to live in this world. He is the guarantee of your future inheritance in Heaven (Ephesians 1:14) and source of benefits while here on Earth. Bible commentator Warren Wiersbe wrote: “In the Old Testament, God promised His earthly people, Israel, material blessings as a reward for their obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-13). Today, He promises to supply all our needs ‘according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.’” (Philippians 4:19)

I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.

Ephesians 1:16

God doesn’t pledge you an absence of poverty or pain, but He does equip you for your earthly walk. Fear and anxiety should have no place in your life. Pray for wisdom that comes in knowing Him, and for the eyes of your heart to be enlightened as you are strengthened in your inner being.

Let the Holy Spirit be the dynamic force in you, working through prayer to give you an exciting, creative life. Then intercede for the leaders and citizens of this nation that their eyes would be opened to see the blessings God has for them…if they only believe.

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Prayer Window

October 15, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Daniel was a godly man surrounded by unbelievers in a foreign nation. Although he knew about the law against praying to anyone except the king, Daniel never hid his regular prayer routine from his enemies in government. In fact, he interceded three times daily with his windows opened toward Jerusalem. However, Daniel’s prayers were not motivated by rebellion toward the king, but solely out of a desire to obey the greater command of God. While Daniel limited his food intake, he indulged in prayer because he hungered for a deeper relationship with his Lord.

He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God.

Daniel 6:10

Acts 5:29 says, “We must obey God rather than men.” Though it often seems like the nation is continually turning against God, He is still in control. Despite the changing circumstances around you, prayerfully live out your convictions each day and trust the Lord for the results. Keep your prayer window open to Him at all times.

Pray also for courage for your local and national leaders who proclaim a relationship with Jesus Christ. Intercede for them to stay strong in their convictions despite any temptations they may encounter.

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C.- Be the Hero!

October 14, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Unlikely success against all odds: an entire American generation spent Saturday mornings cheering along the humble, lovable Shoeshine Boy and his alter ego – speed of lightning, roar of thunder, fighting all who rob or plunder – there’s no need to fear, for Underdog is here!

For nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few.

I Samuel 14:6

Jonathan, the son of the biblical warrior King Saul, didn’t need Underdog to save the day: he was doing it himself! After a time of prayer, Jonathan believed God would deliver the Israelites from the Philistine army. With nothing more than faith and his faithful armor-bearer, he marched right into the enemy camp. His boldness caused such military confusion, Israel’s victory was assured.

As you watch the news tonight, a nation in need of rescue will be evident: calamities abound from rampant disease to violent crime. For most, the blue-caped wonder would be a welcome site, but they don’t need an Underdog; instead, be like Jonathan – pray in faith for God’s will to be done through you, grab your cape, and then get to work. Dedicate yourself to hearing God’s voice and march right into the enemy’s camp, expecting a miraculous victory. Don’t fear! You are here!

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Greater Faith

October 13, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Mosul, the second largest city in Iraq and a historic site for Middle Eastern Christians, fell to Islamic extremists this summer. Thousands fled their homes in fear for their lives. In some areas, Christians have been forced to convert to Islam, pay a tax or face death. Stories are emerging of many executed for not renouncing their faith.

Nevertheless, many even of the authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue.

John 12:42

Being afraid for believing in Christ is nothing new. Today’s scripture tells when Jesus was teaching and performing miracles, many believed but some were afraid to admit their belief for fear of being put out of the synagogue. The following verses say those who wouldn’t admit their belief loved the glory of men more than the glory of God. Christians executed in the Middle East dramatically demonstrate how their faith in God is greater than their fear of men.

How does your faith compare? As you pray today, ask God to help you overcome fear and strengthen your commitment to Him. Then remember those who are being persecuted for their faith abroad, and those who are defending the Christian faith within the halls of government in America.

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – One True God

October 12, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Idol worship. The followers of the pagan god Baal had become so numerous in Israel that God sent the prophet Elijah to confront King Ahab and 450 of his priests. On top of Mount Carmel, Elijah challenged the priests to a contest. Sacrifices were often offered in ancient days to gain the favor of a god. So Elijah proposed that whatever god (or God) ignited and burned the sacrifice would prove to be the true deity who was worthy of the people’s allegiance.

Answer me, O Lord, answer me, that this people may know that you, O Lord, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back.

I Kings 18:37

Elijah prayed to the Lord with courage and faith for a supernatural sign so people would know that “you, O Lord, are God.” The Lord then revealed Himself as authentic and supreme by sending fire from Heaven and miraculously burning the sacrifice.

When you pray, God may choose to answer in a remarkable way or in a soft whisper. Yet always know that He loves you and longs to reveal more of Himself to you each day. Pray also that America’s leaders will turn away from modern-day idols and instead seek the One True God in their personal and public decisions.

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Components of Combat

October 11, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Vietnam veteran and author Karl Marlantes writes that while most people think there is nothing remotely spiritual about warfare, in actuality combat and religious experiences share some common components: constant awareness of one’s own inevitable death, total focus on the present moment, the valuing of other people’s lives above one’s own, and being part of something larger.

For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.

Acts 20:27

The apostle Paul wasn’t a soldier in the traditional sense, but he suffered all the casualties of a combatant: beaten with rods repeatedly, stoned, shipwrecked three times, imprisoned frequently, and his life threatened almost everywhere he went. These experiences heightened Paul’s awareness of eternity and focused his attention on heavenly rewards. “I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself,” he said, “if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord.” (Acts 20:24) This is the perspective that allowed him to conquer fear and speak boldly.

As you pray for your leaders today, remember that you are engaged in spiritual warfare. May you not shrink from the battle, but have the courage and laser-like focus and perspective of one who is fully engaged in the fight.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Christ Focus

October 10, 2014 broboinhawaii 1 Comment

Many Christians know the chorus Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, but they may not know its writer and inspiration. Composer Helen H. Lemmel (1863-1961), as director of a woman’s choral group, wrote the song for the Billy Sunday evangelical meetings in the early 1900s. She was inspired by the words written by author and artist Lilias Trotter. Trotter (1853-1928) turned away from her art, fame and fortune to serve the Muslims of Algeria for 38 years. Certainly, Trotter understood what it meant to look to God and away from her fears.

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father.”

Romans 8:15

In the Bible, Paul traveled through regions that are still in the news today for antagonism toward Christianity. Though his life was threatened moment by moment, his eyes weren’t focused on the physical, but on the spiritual: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

What are you focused on? Set your sights on God, and then think about what you can do in this world that will effect eternity. Begin with prayer for all people, particularly the leaders and citizens of the United States, to yield to Christ’s lordship.

Presidential Prayer Team; – J.K. – Saving Redeemer

October 9, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Bible teacher Dr. J. Vernon McGee once wrote that the book of Ruth is a “story of salvation on the black background of sin.” Compromise, corruption and confusion reigned. God’s judgment for His people was famine. So Elimelech took his wife and sons from Bethlehem to Moab. He thought things would be better; instead, he died. His sons took Moabite women to marry. Then the sons died.

She answered, “I am Ruth, your servant. Spread your wings over your servant, for you are a redeemer.”

Ruth 3:9

And yet this family was a light in the darkness because Ruth, having married one of the sons, accepted Israel’s God as her God. When her husband died, she determined to live with her mother-in-law even if it meant extreme poverty for them. Then the Lord provided a kinsman/redeemer to care for, love and eventually marry Ruth.

America today may not be experiencing a famine of food, but it is certainly undergoing spiritual deprivation. Wickedness abounds – beheadings in other nations, and corruption and constant bickering here at home. Don’t let fear grip you, believer. God will not forsake you. Keep your eyes on Him. Intercede for those around you and for the leaders of this nation…that they may know the one complete Lord and Redeemer who can truly save them.

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C.- Humility Over Control

October 8, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

eHarmony’s dating site claims the biggest red flag to beware of in relationships is control freak behavior. At first, it may seem like they care, but when that new someone begins regulating every detail of your life, it becomes control and loses its charm. In the Bible, Martha was entertaining important people in her home and naturally wanted things to go well, but her worry led her to control, complain and adopt a critical attitude that Jesus admonished.

The Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things.”

Luke 10:41

It’s been said the presence of anxiety is directly related to the absence of humility. In other words, the more you want to control things, the less likely you are to submit yourself to God’s plan. Jesus set the ultimate example in yielding Himself to God’s care. Even in the face of certain torture and humiliation, He prayed, “Father…Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” (Luke 22:42)

As you pray for America today, confess your anxious fears without complaining. Humble yourself before God, being careful to not try to control the outcome of His work. Rest assured – the plan He has for you, and for America and the world, is genuinely caring and motivated by His love.

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Is it True?

October 7, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

People everywhere are seeking truth and the meaning of life – but are they finding it? A Gallup poll conducted earlier this year revealed only 28 percent of Americans believe the Bible is the actual Word of God and should be taken literally. That’s odd when another 77 percent of Americans identify themselves as Christian.

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

In today’s verse, Paul wrote about how some will think the good news of Christ is foolishness. Maybe in the privacy of your thoughts you’ve experienced doubt, wondering, “Could the gospel really be true?” It can, and it is! “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31) As it says in the second half of the key verse, the Bible is “to us who are being saved…the power of God.”

Let the truth of God’s Word sink into your heart. Believe wholeheartedly in the power of the cross, and let it bring you salvation. Ask God to replace your doubt with the assurance only He can bring. Then pray for Him to show President Obama and his cabinet the truth of the gospel.

Recommended Reading: II Timothy 3:14-4:2

Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Faith in His Ability

October 6, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

Recently a sailing championship was held off the coast of Northern Ireland. More than 87 dinghys were in the water when a powerful squall with winds over 60 miles per hour caused several boats to capsize. Many of those rescued said they feared for their lives, but one sailor said the danger was blown out of proportion. He knew the sailors were experts; they were experienced in handling such storms. He had faith in their abilities.

And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.

Matthew 8:26

In today’s scripture, Jesus had just finished the Sermon on the Mount and healed many. He and the disciples were crossing over the Sea of Galilee and Jesus went to sleep. A storm hit and the disciples, afraid for their lives, woke Jesus – who immediately calmed the winds and waves. The disciples learned you don’t have to fear storms in life if you have faith in the abilities of the One who controls everything.

Pray today for God to conquer the fears of many Americans during the ongoing storm of current events, and that both leaders and citizens will trust in Him.

Charles Stanley – Strengthening God’s Church

October 5, 2014 broboinhawaii Leave a comment

The church is in danger of growing weaker every day. False doctrine, apathy, and a lack of discipline work together to diminish the local congregation’s influence in the community and the world. But the apsotle Paul reveals three simple ways to strengthen the church.

Be alert to false doctrine. There is no more effective church-killer than wrong spiritual beliefs. We are living in a culture of immorality and iniquity, and some philosophies mix a bit of truth with falsehood. Believers not firmly planted in God’s Word are susceptible to those lies. Standing firm requires that pure Scripture must be preached from the pulpit and studied by individual church members.
Appreciate God’s servants. Too often church members criticize their leaders more than encourage them. Certainly ministers and others in authority can make mistakes or fall into sin—they are human. But these Christians have devoted themselves to ensuring that people hear and understand Scripture.
The congregation is responsible to show support and love; those who know the Lord most deeply will appreciate the pastor. God will not reveal Himself to those who can’t be bothered with caring for His chosen servant.
Accept one another. Since we are a fellowship of believers, we are to develop a spirit of oneness. Everyone is loved by God and shouls be welcomed. This truth is based not on performance, but on the fact that each believer is the Lord’s child with a unique role in this life.

The church’s great potential lies in its members. Begin today to practice these strength-building exercises.

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