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Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – A Woman of Influence

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In 1999, Time published a list of the 100 most influential people of the twentieth century – individuals known for changing the world. Based on its popularity, the magazine made it an annual event. In 2014, a record 41 women made the list. One woman, however, should top the list since the beginning of time: Eve.

When the woman saw the tree was good for food… she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.

Genesis 3:6

In today’s verse, Eve made a decision that affected not only her future, but the future of all mankind. God had given instruction to Adam and Eve about which fruits they could eat in the garden, but Satan twisted God’s words and convinced Eve to go against God’s command. Eve then influenced her husband to do the same. The consequences have influenced every other human since.

Like Eve, each decision you make has a ripple effect that influences others. As you pray today for your own decision making, also ask God to help the nation’s leaders resist the temptation of going against His commands and to guide each decision they make.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 4:1-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Giving While You’re Living

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Much of what the Bible says about money and its role in your life was written by King Solomon, perhaps the wealthiest and wisest man who ever lived. But, honestly, what is your reaction when a man who is already filthy rich tries to tell you money is not so important? Easy for him to say, you might think. In a way, Solomon’s staggering prosperity makes his advice – were it not in Scripture – seem suspect, if not completely disingenuous.

He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income.

Ecclesiastes 5:10

But consider this historical fact: though Solomon spent his whole life accumulating treasures, a mere five years after his death the Egyptian king Shishak invaded Israel and carried all the gold away. It’s possible that a few artifacts now collecting dust at the Cairo museum, discovered in the tombs of the Pharoahs, were originally seized from Solomon’s holdings. Otherwise, his riches are lost and long gone.

An old Southern preacher of decidedly more modest means put it this way: “Do your giving while you’re living so you’re knowing where it’s going!” Today, pray that your leaders will understand America’s future is not in money, but in the Master.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 4:10-19

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Believe to Receive

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When the Queen of Sheba heard about Solomon’s greatness, she didn’t treat it as a passing rumor. She (along with her entourage and camels loaded with riches) went to see for herself. The queen was left breathless at Solomon’s wisdom and splendor. She gave him gifts and when he asked her what she wanted, she didn’t say, “Oh, no thank you, I’m good.” She asked and received.

And when the queen of Sheba had seen all the wisdom of Solomon, the house that he had built…there was no more breath in her.

Kings 10: 4-5

You serve a breathtaking God! Solomon’s riches and splendor was insignificant compared to God’s glory. Jesus said, “Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” (John 16:24) and “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

Like the Queen of Sheba, don’t take man’s word for it. Dig deep in prayer and the Scriptures and see who God is and what He offers. What is it that you desire for this country? Ask for His will, do not give up, and believe to receive.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 7:7-12

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Presidential Prayer Team;  J.R. – Last Chance Saloon

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The term “Last Chance Saloon” has become a metaphor, but the name was popular back when many U.S. jurisdictions were “dry,” meaning that the sale and consumption of alcohol was prohibited by law. Travelers who came upon a “Last Chance Saloon” on a county or state line knew they were about to enter “dry” country and this would be the final opportunity, for many miles, to buy a drink.

Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles.

Acts 13:46

Scripture speaks of a “last chance,” and it involves a more sobering decision than any involving liquor. Barnabas was the apostle Paul’s partner on his first missionary journey. Together they preached in synagogues across Asia. But when the Jews rejected the message, Paul and Barnabas were directed by the Lord to leave and turn instead to the Gentiles.

When will your “last chance” come to accept Christ or to share His love with others? God is patient and gracious, but inevitably your opportunities will come to an end. Unlike a visit to the Last Chance Saloon, there will be no sign to provide advance warning. As you pray for America today, ask God to help you make “the best use of the time” you have left. (Ephesians 5:16).

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 5:15-21

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Storybook Ending

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Though Naomi certainly had her moments of negativity, saying “the hand of the Lord has gone out against me” (Ruth 1:13) and “the Almighty has dealt very bitterly with me” (Ruth 1:20), her daughters-in-law positively loved her and did not want to leave her side. Ruth loved Naomi so much she determined she’d follow her, no matter what: “May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.” (Ruth 1:17)

But Naomi said, “Turn back, my daughters; why will you go with me?”

Ruth 1:11

Naomi served God faithfully, though she couldn’t understand why He would allow her husband and sons die, and seemed unaware of His loving kindness and His good intentions toward her. In the end, God turned Naomi’s misfortune into blessing when Ruth married Boaz and gave her a grandson who was in Christ’s lineage.

At times, you may feel God has forgotten you. Serve Him anyway. Regardless of your circumstances, He is always worthy. As America goes through turmoil, pray God will work in this country for the good of His people. Remember the words of Habakkuk when things went wrong: “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:18)

Recommended Reading: Romans 8:18-28

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Unshakable

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Tertullian, an early Christian author, once wrote, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” It can be said that Saul, later called Paul, was affected by the dying testimony of martyred Stephen. He stood by and approved it. But on the road to Damascus, Jesus revealed Himself to Saul and called him to account for it.

For you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard.

Acts 22:15

Blinded for three days, Saul must have rehearsed all the Scripture he had learned as a boy, searching for the truth. Ananias, a disciple of Christ, brought a message to him: “The Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” The scales fell from his eyes; Saul believed and was baptized. He immediately “proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues.” (Acts 9:10-21) His faith in the person of Christ became unshakable and unalterable, leading him to witness to everyone.

Paul’s greatest joy was to win souls for the Lord. This should be your desire as well. The world will war against you, but be faithful…pray for neighbors and leaders alike, that they may know the Lord and rejoice.

Recommended Reading: Acts 16:23-34

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Practicing Discernment

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Corrie ten Boom once said, “Discernment is God’s call to intercession, never to faultfinding.” A discerning person intercedes through prayer or action rather than laying blame.

Now the name of the man was Nabal, and the name of his wife Abigail. The woman was discerning and beautiful, but the man was harsh and badly behaved.

1 Samuel 25:3

A perfect example is Abigail. Abigail was a wise woman married to a foolish man. In the scriptures surrounding today’s verse, David was running from Saul. In need of supplies, he sent men to Nabal asking for provisions. Nabal rudely dismissed David’s request and insulted him as well. David responded by sending his army to wipe out Nabal’s household. Then Abigail entered the story. Learning what happened, she interceded for her husband and her household. Gathering food and gifts, she set out to meet David. Finding him, she bowed to the ground, asked for forgiveness, took the blame for the situation, and praised David’s character while reminding him of God’s promises. This act diffused the situation and saved Nabal’s household.

When other’s make poor decisions, do you find fault or fall to your knees in prayer on their behalf? Start showing discernment today by interceding for the nation’s leaders as they make decisions that affect the country.

Recommended Reading: Proverbs 31:10-12, 25-31

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Presidential Prayer Team – G.C. – Let It Happen!

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In today’s verse, Mary of Nazareth is a young Jewish girl encountering an angelic messenger. He announces that, although she’s a virgin, she is going to have a child who will occupy the ancient throne of King David, ruling the house of Judah forever. Young Mary responds to the incredible news by saying, “Yes, let it happen!”
And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”
Luke 1:38
As Mary’s life unfolds, she is entwined in her son’s dangerous world as His message challenges the corrupt religious and political leaders of the day. Things seem to go from bad to tragically worse when Mary finds herself at the foot of a Roman cross, a witness to His savage execution. Days later, her heartbreak was replaced by hope as the angel’s promise was confirmed by the impossible: His resurrection.
America’s leaders face challenges that seem impossible, too. Mary did not know in advance how God would fulfill His promises; she had to live out her faith a day at a time – and so do you. Today, pray for God’s faithful people serving and leading America. Ask that they will remain steadfast in their hope regardless of circumstances, and rest certain that God’s plan will indeed be confirmed.
Recommended Reading: Hebrews 11:1-6

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Flight by Night

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The Wise Men had just departed, leaving gold, frankincense and myrrh. Mary, Joseph and young Jesus must have been in awe of the scholars who followed the star and appeared at their door. The gifts alone were worth more than Joseph had probably ever seen in one place.

And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt.

Matthew 2:14

But that night as they slept, an angel awakened Joseph, telling him to go to Egypt. Egypt – the land where his forefathers had spent so many years in captivity. The Bible doesn’t tell how Joseph packed the next morning and left, or even how he questioned the angel. Today’s verse simply states his response. Joseph got up from his bed, took Mary and Jesus, and left that night. The man chosen to be Christ’s earthly father exhibited the characteristic of immediate obedience.

When was the last time God spoke to you and you obeyed without question? Not many can claim such a feat. But that’s what your Heavenly Father longs to see in your life. Ask God to create a desire in you to follow His lead in an instant. Then pray the president and his cabinet would be able to hear and follow Him as well.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 2:13-23  Click to Read or Listen

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Deepest Well

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The Woman of Samaria – a nameless woman who was both an outcast to the Jews and an adulteress – was thirsty. So, as every day, physical thirst brought her to Jacob’s well to fill her water pot.

Whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again.

John 4:14

However, this Samaritan woman’s life changed forever with an unexpected visit from Jesus. The Lord asked her for a drink. More important, He showed her God’s unconditional love was beyond all religious and racial prejudices. Jesus offered her “living water” – eternal life through a relationship with God, and she gratefully drank of His unconditional deep well of love. With her heart and mind overflowing with this new truth, the Woman of Samaria abandoned her water pot along with her sinful lifestyle and ran to tell others about Jesus Christ.

In the Bible, God is referred to as having the “fountain of life.” Dive in and lavish yourself each day with His Word. Remember also to pray over America’s spiritual condition as you continually evaluate your reflection in the fountain of God’s truth. Thirst after Him with all your heart, mind and soul…and pray that your local and national leaders will do the same.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 36:1-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Capacious Compassion

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A few things known about Timothy – from the letters written to him by the apostle Paul – are that he had a weak stomach and many ailments (I Timothy 5:23) and that he apparently suffered from fearfulness (II Timothy 1:7). Could it be that Timothy’s family history contributed to these conditions? It’s impossible to know for sure, but as the product of a mixed marriage, Timothy almost certainly would have faced ostracism and discrimination. His Jewish mother was wed to a Greek man, a prohibited marriage under Jewish law. Then she and Timothy became Christians: another strike against them.

Pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

I Timothy 2:3-4

Plenty of people would have deemed Timothy as disqualified for service, but Paul had no interest in majoring on such minors. He equipped Timothy for ministry and encouraged him to “fight the good fight of faith.” (I Timothy 6:12) Perhaps Timothy, more than most others, appreciated that Jesus came so that “all people” might be saved.

Human history is filled with one sad tale of prejudice after another. As you pray for America today, ask God to help you look beyond those in your own neighborhood, church or political party, and give you His compassion for all people.

Recommended Reading: II Peter 3:4-9

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Beyond Reproach

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Elizabeth bore reproach from her friends and relatives because she was barren. For many years, she endured criticism, accusations and shame, but God describes her as “walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord.” (Luke 1:6)

Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.

Luke 1:25

The angel revealed heady stuff about Elizabeth’s son John. “Many will rejoice at his birth…He will be great before the Lord…He will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb…He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord.” (Luke 1:14-16) Yet when Mary, three months along in her pregnancy, came to visit her, Elizabeth humbly asked, “And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” (Luke 1:43)

In her lifetime, Elizabeth had many reasons to be proud, bitter or depressed, but instead she walked humbly with God. The Father not only took reproach from Elizabeth – He also removes it from all who trust in Christ. Give thanks for this precious gift. Ask God to move the citizens and leaders of this country to humble themselves and pray.

Recommended Reading: James 4:1-10

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – No Questions Asked

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Three words come to mind when speaking of God’s Old Testament military commander Joshua – courage, obedience and faith. His story should be your encouragement. Have courage when times get tough, stay obedient to the Lord when tempted to stray, and keep the faith in good times and bad.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

It took courage for Joshua and Caleb to encourage Israel to push forward into the Promised Land when the majority expressed fear (Numbers 14:6-9). Unshakable faith sustained Joshua as he wandered with Israel for 40 years because of their stubbornness. Moses knew of his faithfulness and kept him by his side (Exodus 33:7-11). Lastly, Joshua obeyed the Lord. At Moses death, God instructed Joshua, “Arise, go over this Jordan.” (Joshua 1:2) Immediately he commanded the people of Israel to prepare and go…no questions asked. His great leadership and mighty victories came because of his faith, courage and obedience.

How’s your spiritual life? Unmovable faith in God can give you courage to obey Him when those around you would have you falter. When the outlook for this country is dim, don’t be discouraged, for the Lord is with you.

Recommended Reading: Hebrews 11:30-40

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – No Winner

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ppt_seal01Have you ever won the battle, only to lose the war? Rachel and Leah, two sisters married to the same man, engaged in a perpetual competition that neither one could truly win. Their complicated relationship detailed in Genesis 29-35 is an appropriate picture of today’s political landscape: two major parties vying for power over control of one government, yet battling in such as way that no one really wins in the end.

Then Rachel said, “With mighty wrestlings I have wrestled with my sister and have prevailed.”

Genesis 30:8

Election season is heating up again. Before you put up the yard signs and post your political fireballs on Facebook, take a moment and consider your unbelieving neighbors and friends. Ask yourself if your communications are creating opportunities to share your hope in Jesus Christ and bring about healing – or merely drawing battle lines for ongoing disagreement and hurt.

Like living in the tent with Rachel and Leah, the conflict going on mainly damages those that would otherwise benefit immensely from working together. Start praying today for believers seeking office in the next term. Pray they will handle members of the opposite party thoughtfully and maintain an effective witness for Christ. There’s no reason to win the election but lose the race.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 9:1-13

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Mothers Behind the Men

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Many of our nation’s presidents recognized the impact of godly mothers – as evidenced in these quotes. “All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the…education I received from her,” George Washington. “I remember my mother’s prayers and they have always followed me,” Abraham Lincoln. “From my mother I learned the value of prayer, how to have dreams and believe I could make them come true.” Ronald Reagan. These leaders guided the country through difficult circumstances and attributed their success in part to their mother’s teachings.

I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well.

II Timothy 1:5

In today’s verse, Paul also recognizes the importance of godly mothers and grandmothers. His letter to Timothy mentions Lois and Eunice who taught Timothy scripture from childhood and modeled sincere faith despite a less than ideal environment (Timothy’s father wasn’t a Christian). Their influence led Timothy to become Paul’s traveling companion in spreading the gospel and ultimately a leader in the early church.

As you pray for America’s future, remember mothers and grandmothers and their impact on the next generation of leaders.

Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 6:1-9

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Reflection of God’s Face

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Anna had a heart overflowing for God. She was the daughter of Phanuel, whose name also means “the face or appearance of God.” Anna’s life reflected this as she was devoted to praying, fasting and praising the Lord continuously in the Temple.

She began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

Luke 2:38

As a prophetess, Anna proclaimed divine messages from Yahweh. In fact, God used her to confirm that He was keeping His promises to Israel and the world by sending a Savior. Anna also became the first missionary as she gazed upon the face of baby Jesus and then shared the Good News to everyone who had been waiting for the Messiah to rescue them!

As you spend more time in the Lord’s presence, you will naturally fall more in love with Him. Allow His love to flow out of your heart so you become a reflection of God’s face to everyone you encounter. Then look for those opportunities to tell others about His love. Pray also that believers on Capitol Hill have boldness to tell their co-workers about the Messiah.

Recommended Reading: II Corinthians 5:11-17

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Presidential Prayer Team;  J.R. – Old Camel Knees

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James, the brother of Jesus, wrote an epistle. In five chapters, he catalogues the weaknesses afflicting the human condition. These flaws will be familiar to you—some, perhaps, a little too familiar. Among them: a lack of faith, succumbing to temptation, discriminating against others, talking a good game without backing your words up with action, losing your temper, saying things you wish you could take back, impatience, pride, and loving money more than you should.

Who is wise and understanding among you?

James 3:13

After you slog through this list, you might be discouraged about ever living a godly life. But consider this: When James asks, “Who is wise and understanding among you?” he is pointedly highlighting the reality that you can’t attain God’s standards in your own power. The key, James writes, is to seek wisdom from the Lord. And how do you find that? The answer is revealed in James’ nickname—not found in Scripture, but well known among believers in his day. They called him “the man with camel knees.” James, you see, spent so much time in prayer his knees became rough and calloused like a camel’s.

 

Today, be resolved that whatever may happen in your life and in America today, it won’t be because you didn’t pray.

Recommended Reading: James 5:13-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – An Act of Kindness

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Moses’ passion for his suffering people moved him to kill an Egyptian who had been beating an Israelite. Yet Moses had a lot to learn before he could act on behalf of God’s people. He fled to Midian. There he met Jethro’s daughters, fought off their attackers and drew water for their flocks.

And Moses was content to dwell with the man, and he gave Moses his daughter Zipporah.

Exodus 2:21

When Jethro heard what had happened, he took Moses in and gave him his daughter Zipporah as a wife, who, in some of the most unusual verses in the Bible (Exodus 4:24-26), returned his kindness by saving him. She interceded, saying, “Surely you are a bridegroom of blood to me,” and God spared Moses. The Lord had a more complicated plan to save His people than Moses had. Because of Zipporah’s act of compassion, He was able to implement it.

God often uses little acts of kindness in our lives to bring about His plan. Do something nice for someone today, entrusting outcomes to the Lord…and intercede for this nation’s leaders, praying that they will not follow their own passion or reasoning, but instead be submissive to God’s will.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 4:25-32

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – A Heart for God

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Today’s verse is part of a message that Moses delivered to the people of Israel. They had just forsaken God to worship the golden calf. Chosen by God, their faithlessness was met by His faithfulness. He used His messenger – an ordinary man – to be a channel through which He accomplished so much.

What does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways.

Deuteronomy 10:12

It was by faith that Moses left Egypt only to return under God’s direction to guide Israel out of captivity. It was by faith that he led them to cross the Red Sea. F.B. Meyer, in his book Moses, calls it the marvelous faculty of faith…the capacity of the human heart for God! It is putting self aside so that the Lord can work through you. With no thought about your human qualifications, the attitude of your heart will desire to become an organ through which He can work out His purposes.

Knit your soul to God by sensing your helplessness. Dedicate your whole self to Him. Let Him act through you to accomplish His purposes. Then pray that the leaders of this country would turn to the true God in whom to put their faith.

Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 10:12-11:2

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – A Buttress for Barak

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A buttress is an architectural term referring to a structure built against a wall to support or reinforce. While seemingly insignificant, without it the wall would fall. In the period of the judges in the Old Testament, one might call Deborah a buttress of sorts. The only female judge, Deborah stood out – and stood firm – among her peers.

And Deborah said to Barak, “Up! For this is the day in which the Lord has given Sisera into your hand. Does not the Lord go out before you?”

Judges 4:14

She called the commander Barak with a message from God: to gather his troops and head to the river Kishon, where the Lord would deliver his enemy Sisero to him. Even with God’s guarantee of success, Barak wouldn’t go without Deborah. Some people are so full of the Spirit of God, just being around them makes you feel more confident. Deborah obliged Barak and offered the wise counsel of today’s verse.

She reminded him that God had already given him victory and had gone before him into battle. Remember the faithfulness of Deborah and consider who might need your encouragement today. Ask God to point out people who need to hear how He has gone before them. Then pray for Christians who hold political offices to be encouraged as well.

Recommended Reading: Romans 1:8-17