According to a recent study, an estimated two-thirds of American prisoners were arrested for a new crime within three years of prison release, while three-quarters were arrested within five years. Recidivism, the act of a person repeating a crime or undesirable behavior, is a real problem in the United States today.
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Galatians 5:1
While recidivism may currently be a buzzword in the justice system, it’s not a new problem. Paul speaks of it in today’s key verse. He refers to the old behavior as a yoke of slavery. “Jesus answered them, ‘Everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.’” (John 8:34) Romans 3:23 says “all have sinned.” So if everyone sins and is, therefore, a slave to it, where’s the freedom? Today’s verse says freedom comes from Christ. “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36)
From America’s past to its present, there’s a pattern of unrighteous behavior, but this nation can have freedom in Jesus. Rise up, oh Christian! Rise up and pray for freedom from bondage. Ask God to break the chains holding Americans and its leaders in the slavery of sin.
Recommended Reading: John 8:31-38
Tag Archives: Presidential Prayer Team
Presidential Prayer Team; – A.W. – Eyes Wide Open
In 2001, Michael W. Smith released the song Open the Eyes of My Heart. The song, originally written by Paul Baloche, was inspired by Ephesians 1:18 in which the apostle Paul prayed for the Ephesians to have the eyes of their heart enlightened.
Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
II Kings 6:17
Today’s scripture also involves a prayer for eyes to be opened. The King of Syria sent an army to kill Elisha because, as a prophet, he was able to direct the King of Israel how to fight against them. As they surrounded the city of Dothan where Elisha was staying, his servant became frightened about what they would do. Elisha knew they were protected and prayed for his servant to see that those for them were greater than those against them.
Do you feel surrounded by the enemy? Know with God on your side, you are protected and need not fear. Pray for God to open your eyes to see and understand His Word and power. Pray also for the country and its leaders to do the same.
Recommended Reading: John 9:30-39 Click to Read or Listen
Alistair Begg – This Man
This man receives sinners. Luke 15:2
Observe the condescension of this fact. Jesus, holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners, who towers above all other men—this Man receives sinners. This Man, who is no other than the eternal God, before whom angels veil their faces—this Man receives sinners. It requires an angel’s tongue to describe such a mighty stoop of love. That any of us would be willing to reach the lost is nothing wonderful—they are, after all, our own race; but that He, the offended God, against whom the transgression has been committed, should take upon Himself the form of a servant and bear the sin of many and be willing to receive the worst of sinners—this is marvelous.
“This man receives sinners”; not in order for them to remain sinners, but He receives them in order that He may pardon their sins, justify their persons, cleanse their hearts by His purifying word, preserve their souls by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and enable them to serve Him, show forth His praise, and have communion with Him. Into His heart’s love He receives sinners; He takes them from the refuse pile and wears them as jewels in His crown; He snatches them like branches from the fire and preserves them as costly monuments to His mercy. None are so precious in Jesus’ sight as the sinners for whom He died.
When Jesus receives sinners, He does not have an outdoor reception, no public square where He charitably entertains them in the way men treat passing beggars, but He opens the golden gates of His royal heart and receives the sinner right into Himself. He admits the humble penitent into personal union and makes Him a member of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. There was never such a reception as this! This fact is certain. Even this evening, He is still receiving sinners: It is our prayer that sinners will receive Him.
The family reading plan for September 13, 2014 * Ezekiel 16 * Psalm 58, 59
Devotional material is taken from “Morning and Evening,” written by C.H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg.
John MacArthur – Pursuing Truthfulness
“Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth” (Eph. 6:14).
Truthfulness is the best defense against Satan’s lies.
The first piece of armor Paul mentions in Ephesians 6:14 is the belt of truth. Roman soldiers of his day wore a tunic, which was a large square piece of material with holes for the head and arms. A belt kept the tunic from flying loosely and getting in the way in the midst of battle.
The phrase “having girded your loins” was commonly used for gathering up the loose material of one’s tunic or robe when preparing for battle or travel. It speaks of preparedness, as in Exodus 12:11, where God tells the children of Israel to gird their loins for their exodus from Egypt. Jesus used it in a figurative sense in Luke 12:35, where He warns us to gird our loins or “be dressed in readiness” for His second coming. Peter said we’re to gird our minds for action (1 Pet. 1:13).
The Greek word translated “truth” in Ephesians 6:14 can refer either to the content of that which is true or to an attitude of truthfulness. Both are implied in the verse. In Ephesians 4 Paul combines both aspects in warning us not to be “tossed here and there by waves, and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming” (vv. 14-15). Instead, we are to embrace sound doctrine and always speak the truth in love.
The way to defend yourself against the cunning deceptions of Satan is to gird yourself with a thorough knowledge of God’s Word and a firm commitment to obedience. Yet many Christians remain vulnerable because they’re unwilling to do that.
Just as Paul exhorted the Philippians to excel in knowledge and discernment and to remain sincere and blameless until in Christ’s presence (Phil. 1:9-10), so you must also do the same. Never be content with your present level of spirituality. Keep learning and growing. Demonstrate an attitude of truthfulness that reveals your commitment to God’s Word and your readiness for battle.
Suggestions for Prayer
Is your life characterized by truthfulness? If not, you’re a ready target for Satan’s schemes. Confess it to the Lord and ask Him to cleanse your heart and give you a love for His truth. Begin today to apply His Word to your life.
For Further Study
Read verses 1-4 and 13-15 of 2 Corinthians 11, noting the tactics of Satan and his servants.
Presidential Paryer Team – G.C. – Out to Sea
Four-year-old Jemima Chambers was rescued recently off the Jersey shore after drifting half a mile out to sea on a body board. Her mother says she had a false sense of security while watching over Jemima because everyone was just paddling around in shallow water. But when she checked again, her daughter was a speck in the distance. Rescuers jumped on a jet ski and approached the little girl, finding her relaxed and unaware she was in great danger.
You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.
II Corinthians 1:11
In II Corinthians, Paul exhorts his fellow Christians to pray for him and his mission to spread the gospel. As with little Jemima, Paul knows it’s easy to drift. Anyone might be pulled out into a sea of error without the watchful prayers of God’s people.
Today, pray for believers working in governmental leadership in Washington D.C. and in your community. Be a watcher in the water for those proclaiming the name of Christ on the public platform. Ask God to protect their character, keeping them safely close to His shore and away from the dangers of the deep.
Recommended Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7
Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Praise Him, Praise Him
A study from the Center for Disease Control shows 1.5 million women in the U.S. are infertile. Americans spend three to five billion dollars a year on this ancient problem. In the Bible, Sarah didn’t give birth until she was ninety. Jacob’s wife Rachel also struggled with the inability to conceive. Another biblical account of barrenness was Hannah’s.
And Hannah prayed and said, “My heart exults in the Lord; my horn is exalted in the Lord. My mouth derides my enemies, because I rejoice in your salvation.”
I Samuel 2:1
Her prayers for a child were so desperate, the priest Eli thought she was drunk. Hannah promised if God granted her wish, she would give the child back to Him in service. There’s a lesson in Hannah’s prayer after the birth of her son Samuel. First, she followed through with her promise to God and dedicated her son to the Lord. And, as today’s verse shows, she offers praise for an answered prayer.
Christians never hesitate to “take it to the Lord in prayer.” But have you praised Him lately for answering your requests? Take some time today just to thank God for all He has done, both in your life and in your nation. He is still in control.
Recommended Reading: I Samuel 2:1-11
Presidential Prayer Team; J.K.- Cloud of Darkness
Today is a day of mourning. Designated by Congress and approved by the President, September 11 is a discretionary day of remembrance for the 2,977 people who died on this date in 2001 at the hands of men who wished only death and destruction for the United States. Their hatred of this country – its prosperity and its Judeo-Christian values and beliefs – caused them to wreak destruction upon this nation.
Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.
Romans 10:1
Hatred for Christians is not new. The apostle Paul talks in Romans about Israel’s unbelief in Jesus as Messiah; their zeal for the Lord did not lead them to the knowledge of His Son. In fact, instead of believing, the Jews sought to kill those who followed Christ. It was Paul’s desire that his own people would be saved by understanding God’s promises and believing in Jesus as their Savior.
Let your prayers be the same. Evil abounds when people go their own way. Hearts must turn to Christ for good to overcome. Only a people saved by God’s grace can impact others who despair and hate…whose understanding is clouded by Satan’s darkness. Remember those who are lost; desire and pray to God that they may be saved.
Recommended Reading: Romans 10:1-13
Presidential Prayer Team; J.R.- Death Defying
“I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!” When Patrick Henry made that plea, urging his fellow Virginians to cast their lot with the revolutionaries, it was serious business. Many of them, in fact, got death. In contrast, today’s politicians calculate each word based on opinion polls. They don’t fear death so much as they fear failing to get reelected. Henry, though, believed some things are worth dying for – and some people worth dying with.
Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.
Ruth 1:16
Ruth is an enigmatic little book of Scripture. Theologians disagree about what message it is trying to convey. But it contains perhaps the most beautiful declaration in all of literature. Naomi, a widow, urges her daughter-in-law Ruth, also widowed, to return to her own family to find another husband. In that day, a woman without a husband lacked the means to survive. But Ruth pledged her loyalty to Naomi. She prayed God would allow nothing short of death to separate them.
Who would you die for? What would you die for? As you pray today, may you – and America’s leaders – be driven not by convenience, but by Godly conviction.
Recommended Reading: Romans 6:5-11
Charles Spurgeon – The death of the Christian
“Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in his season.” Job 5:26
Suggested Further Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:1-8
Wait a little, beloved. In a few more years you and I shall be carried through the heavens on the wings of angels. When I die, the angels approach. I am on the wings of cherubs. Oh, how they bear me up—how swiftly and yet how softly. I have left mortality with all its pains. Oh, how rapid is my flight! Just now I passed the morning star. Far behind me now the planets shine. Oh, how swiftly do I fly, and how sweetly! Cherubs! What sweet flight is yours, and what kind arms are these I lean upon. And on my way you kiss me with the kisses of love and affection.You call me brother. Cherubs; am I your brother? I who just now was captive in a tenement of clay—am I your brother? “Yes!” they say. Oh, hark, I hear music strangely harmonious! What sweet sounds come to my ears! I am nearing Paradise. Do not spirits approach with songs of joy? “Yes!” they say. And before they can answer, behold they come—a glorious convoy! I catch a sight of them as they are holding a great review at the gates of Paradise. And there is the golden gate. I enter in; and I see my blessed Lord. I can tell you no more. All else were things unlawful for flesh to utter. My Lord! I am with thee—plunged into thee—lost in thee just as a drop is swallowed in the ocean—as one single tint is lost in the glorious rainbow! Am I lost in thee, thou glorious Jesus? And is my bliss consummated? Is the wedding-day come at last? Have I really put on the marriage garments? And am I thine? Yes! I am.
For meditation: Are you looking forward to this time (Philippians 1:23)? You can if you are a Christian.The unbeliever has another prospect ahead (Hebrews 10:27). See the contrast in Luke 16:22,23.
Sermon no. 43
9 September (1855)
Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Cycle Breaker
The book of Judges records a turbulent period in the history of Israel. All throughout it, the cycle of sin is repeated. Some call it the ABC’s of Judges. God’s people would lose sight of His commands and “abandon” them. As punishment, the Lord would allow them to be taken into “bondage” by their enemies. Then the people would repent and “cry” out to God. He would hear their prayer and “deliver” them. Then the cycle would begin again.
But when the people of Israel cried out to the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer for the people of Israel, who saved them.
Judges 3:9
Unfortunately, many people do the same cycle today in their Christian walk. The enemy wants you to believe once you sin, there is no way out. God’s Word tells a different story. I John 1:9 says if you confess your sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive them and cleanse you from all unrighteousness.
Praying for forgiveness begins to break the cycle of sin. Take time today to intercede for the country and its leaders to realize how they have abandoned God’s commands and for Him to deliver the land.
Recommended Reading: Leviticus 26:3-6, 12-17
Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Spiritual Birthday
Happy Birthday to you…Happy Birthday to you… That’s the song you often hear on that special day you celebrate your physical birth and were placed in your parents’ family. Yet even more important is the day that you prayed and invited Jesus Christ into your heart and your life. You were reborn spiritually, receiving new life from God. Through faith in Christ, this new birth changes you from the inside out, makes you spiritually alive and puts you in God’s family!
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
John 1:12
As His child, God has given you the greatest privilege to receive His blessing, favor and eternal life. However, did you know that God sings over you? Zephaniah 3:17 says, “He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you by His love; He will exult over you with loud singing.” That’s an amazing way He celebrates you every day!
Think of someone who does not have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Commit to pray for that person every day. Look for opportunities to share God’s love through your actions and your words. Pray also for America’s leaders who don’t know Him to embrace a spiritual birthday!
Recommended Reading: Galatians 4:1-7
Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Making a Miracle
Five of the most powerful kings on Earth gathered together to destroy the children of Israel. The fighting was intense and Israel was winning, but the day was winding down. Darkness would soon allow the enemy a reprieve to regroup. Joshua, the leader, went before the people and prayed for something inconceivable. He asked that the sun would stand still over the place they were fighting to allow Israel to complete their victory. Zap! A miracle occurred; the sun didn’t move until God’s men triumphed.
Joshua spoke to the Lord…and he said in the sight of Israel, “Sun, stand still at Gibeon, and moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.”
Joshua 10:12
Joshua’s bold prayer is often used to encourage people to have faith and pray for a miracle. Before you do, rewind Joshua’s story a few verses and understand the foundation of his audacious request. Joshua 10:8 says, “The Lord said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have given them into your hands. Not a man of them shall stand before you.”
Joshua was not just bold in his request; he was standing on a specific promise from God. Want to see a miracle today? Pray for His Word to be fulfilled in your life and in America.
Recommended Reading: Psalm 105:1-11
Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Worship over Worry
Thelma Johnson, a resident of Craig Methodist Retirement Community in Amarillo, Texas, turned 106 years old in March 2014. This Texan claims the secret to longevity is God. “People need to quit thinking they’re in control. They’re not. God is.”
And then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.
Luke 2:37
Johnson, who is fondly referred to as “Granny,” spends her days sharing her faith and singing gospel songs to the other residents. In other words, she is praising God. Anna, a prophetess in the temple, was only eighty-four…but also spent her time worshiping the Lord. Today’s verse tells how she didn’t even leave the temple, devoting her entire life to fasting and prayer. Guess what? While spending her time in service, Anna got to see young Jesus when Mary and Joseph brought Him to the temple. Sometimes the biggest blessings come when we worship.
The current climate of world affairs is enough to give anyone a scare. Dedicate yourself to fasting and prayer for America and especially for the country’s leaders as they make decisions that will affect your future. Praise God – for He is the ruler over all nations.
Recommended Reading: Psalm 32:6-11
Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – In the Midst
It seemed as if he was alone. Moses led millions of Israelites from Egypt out of the depths of slavery, but their angst with him resulted in complaints about the food, their water supply and their total situation (Numbers 11:1-10). Only because of his faithful communion with God was Moses able to lead this stiff-necked, sinning nation to the Promised Land.
And he [Moses] said, “If now I have found favor in your sight, O Lord, please let the Lord go in the midst of us.”
Exodus 34:9
It’s a problem that has not gone away. Many today complain about their circumstances. They live in the most prosperous nation of the world, blessed by God with plenteous food, a standard of living higher than any other, and opportunities abounding. Even in these times when jobs are scarce and making ends meet difficult, the Lord continues to provide for those who lean on Him.
Moses’ plea was that the Lord go in the midst of them – that He not help them from afar, but that He remain close. The Lord covenanted to do just that and the people were blessed. It is a prayer for you today…though the sin is great and the hearts are stubborn, Lord, do not forsake this nation.
Recommended Reading: Exodus 34:1-10
Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Rejected Prayers
“Remember…two of these or you die!” It was an unusual Christmas list, written by 13-year old Mekeeda Austin. Discovered by her mother and later appearing in British tabloids, Mekeeda demanded a new smartphone, sunglasses, a designer sweater and cash. If Santa failed to come through, the youngster wrote she would not only kill the jolly old fellow, but also hunt down his reindeer, cook them and serve them to homeless people on Christmas Day. One can only hope that Mekeeda’s mother did not accede to her wishes.
And he said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”
Mark 14:36
Sometimes the prayers of God’s people must sound in Heaven every bit as outlandish as Mekeeda’s demands. No one has the Lord’s unlimited wisdom and perspective. Will you trust that He has your best interests, and your eternal good, in mind even when He says “no?” Consider the greatest unanswered prayer ever: God denied Jesus’ request for the cup of suffering to be removed. Had that prayer been answered in the affirmative, you would be without hope.
As you pray for America today, thank God He often gives us not what we want, but what is best.
Recommended Reading: Romans 8:18-25
Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Way Ahead of You
Millions of singles in the U.S. have tried online dating sites. In just the past year, 17 percent of newly married couples met through the Internet – this despite the risks of meeting someone who only wants to take advantage of the lonely and vulnerable.
Before he had finished speaking, behold, Rebekah…came out with her water jar on her shoulder.
Genesis 24: 15
Abraham sent his servant on a matchmaking mission of sorts…to go to Abraham’s homeland and find a wife for his son Isaac from his relatives. Obviously, the servant had no online assistance and dangers threatened, but he did have help from Love Himself. The servant went to the well outside the city and prayed. Before he finished speaking, Rebekah arrived on the scene in answer to His plea.
Jesus said, “Your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Matthew 6:8) Approach God with boldness, knowing He already knows what you desire and may already have the answer on the way. Ask the Lord to give you the vision to see the answer when it comes, and pray for America and its leaders to have ears to hear His will for this nation.
Recommended Reading: Romans 8:26-34
Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Knocking on the Gate
Jesus both taught and modeled a radical life of prayer for His disciples. He urged them to always pray and keep asking, seeking and knocking with confident assurance of the Father’s loving heart. Jesus knew this would draw them to the true center of prayer, which is not something but Someone. Persistence would deepen their relationship with God through exercising patience and faith.
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.
Matthew 7:7
Of course, the most important demonstration of persistence in prayer is for the salvation of others. In Matthew 7, the word “door” is not in the Greek text. During biblical days people also knocked on gates as well as doors to request entrance. So “knock” probably refers to knocking on the gate of His kingdom.
Remember each day to practice persistent prayer, particularly for those who need to discover a personal relationship with Christ Jesus. Whether it’s a family member, coworker, neighbor or government leader, never give up praying for them. You can have a positive impact on their eternity!
Recommended Reading: Luke 11:5-13
Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Worry-free Approach
Nearly one in five Americans – 40 million adults – suffer from a reported anxiety disorder. From personal life issues to concerns over governmental affairs, according to the World Mental Health Survey, American’s are the most anxiety-riddled people in the world.
She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.
Proverbs 31:21
Do you suffer from fear and worry? If so, you will identify with quite a few Bible characters who faced circumstances seemingly out of their control and beyond resolve. For example, young David was pursued by the most powerful man in his world, Saul the King. The apostle Paul was literally shipwrecked in the middle of his most important missionary journey. Both situations were genuinely life threatening!
Proverbs 31 describes a woman who is the opposite of an anxious soul. Her lack of fear and worry come from two basic and vital attributes: she did what she could with what she had, and then left what she could not control in the hands of God. As you intercede for America today, take a Proverbs 31 approach. Do all you absolutely can through prayer, then diligently prepare and take your peaceful rest in the providence of God’s care.
Recommended Reading: Philippians 4:4-9
Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – You Cannot Know
Oh, if you could only examine your life in light of what God has planned for you! Would your faith be stronger? Have you given every part of your being over to the One who takes care of you in every situation?
Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Revelation 2:10
Looking at the apostle John, imagine what he thought as his life unfolded. One of the youngest of the disciples, he witnessed Jesus’ miracles and was close to Him throughout His ministry. He faithfully stood nearby during Christ’s suffering and death on the cross. John experienced the exhilarating resurrection moments and Pentecost. He and Peter preached in Samaria. Then persecution took the lives of his friends. Sometime later, he took up Paul’s work in Ephesus. Biblically obscure for many years, John then was inspired to write his exceptional Gospel, the epistles and Revelation.
Beloved, John could not have imagined what his life would be like…and you cannot know how God will use you if you are faithful to Him. Turn yourself wholly over to Him and let Him work through you. As you do that, intercede for this nation and its leaders that they may do likewise…for great is the reward!
Recommended Reading: II Corinthians 5:1-10
Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Recognizing Him
In 1976, the Statler Brothers released a song entitled Would You Recognize Jesus? The chorus asks “Would you recognize Jesus if you met Him face to face? Or would you wonder if He’s just another one you could not place?”
Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!”
John 20:16
Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus’ closest followers, had many personal encounters with Him. He cast seven demons from her, she anointed His feet with her tears and expensive perfume, she contributed financially to His ministry, and she was present at His crucifixion. In the scripture leading to today’s verse, Mary Magdalene visited the tomb of Jesus and found His body missing. Peter and John also visited the tomb to find the body gone. The disciples leave, but Mary lingers. As she’s standing outside the tomb weeping, Jesus appears. Mary thinks He’s the gardener, but when Jesus calls her name, she immediately recognizes Him.
Have you had personal experiences with Jesus but sometimes still fail to recognize His presence? Listen for His voice. As you pray today, ask for the voice of God to speak loud and clear to you. Pray also for His presence to be made known across the nation.
Recommended Reading: John 10:1-5, 14-18
DAILY DEVOTIONS, NEWS AND INFORMATION 