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Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Don’t Lie Down

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Planking has become a popular subject of photos on social media. It’s actually the art of “lying down.” But true planking – holding your body straight while resting on your toes and forearms – is a genuine test of strength. It isn’t easy, but it earned 16-year-old Gabi Ury a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. Gabi planked one hour, twenty minutes and five seconds.

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Romans 12:12

She had a goal of breaking a world record and raising money for the Denver Children’s Hospital where she received treatment for a disease called VATER syndrome (the presence of at least three specific birth defects). She achieved both. When asked how she got through the pain and fatigue, Gabi said being surrounded by positivity and fun helped. She also believed in herself. She had hope.

Today’s verse offers a similar life lesson. Have hope. Hang on and pray. When you want to give up, surround yourself with the positivity of other Christ followers. Don’t “lie down.” Instead, “Encourage one another and build one another up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11) As you pray continually, show patience as you wait for the Lord. Then pray for your nation’s leaders to have the same hope in Christ you do.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:11-18

Charles Stanley

Charles Stanley – Jesus, the Perfect God-Man

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Charles Stanley

John 20:30-31

People’s attitudes toward Jesus Christ tend to fall into three categories. First, there are some who don’t believe He is God. They reject, diminish, or ignore His character and lifesaving work, claiming He was simply a good person. Second, there are some who intellectually acknowledge Jesus is God’s Son but have no personal relationship with Him. Third, true followers believe Christ is Savior (Rom. 10:9). Through genuine faith, believers are made part of His family.

Ephesians 2:1-2 says that before salvation, we all are spiritually dead and living according to our sin nature. Those who don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus remain in that state. But when a person places faith in Him, spiritual birth takes place; he or she is made alive in Christ and becomes a new creation who is no longer to live according to the flesh (John 3:3; Eph. 2:5; 4:24).

Our position in the Lord affects everything about us—attitudes, emotions, conversation, and conduct. The ungodliness of our culture no longer fits who we are. As believers, we are to grow in Christlikeness, embracing ideas, thought patterns, and activities that please God, while rejecting all others.

Jesus is the perfect God-man, who willingly took our sins upon Himself and experienced divine wrath in our place. God accepted His death as full payment for our sins, and He raised Jesus from the dead to a position of divine glory (Eph. 1:20). His Spirit now lives within us. So understand who Jesus Christ is, and let that knowledge strengthen your commitment to be like Him.

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Focus on God

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Derek Rabelo’s father prayed that his unborn son would become a professional surfer. Yet when Derek was born blind, that didn’t end the dream. As a teenager, Derek embarked on a three-year journey of rigorous spiritual, physical and mental training. Then 20-year-old Derek surfed some of the world’s most dangerous waves on the Pipeline on Hawaii’s North Shore.

In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.

II Corinthians 7:4

Despite his physical blindness, Derek experiences a life of joy through his relationship with Jesus Christ. “If I surf, it’s because He gave me this gift and I’m really grateful.” Derek says. Recently Derek’s story was made into a documentary based on the theme: “We are to live by faith, not by sight.” The Christian band Audio Adrenaline also says their song “Believer” was inspired by Derek’s faith.

James 1:2-3 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” When the waves of life crash around you, focus on the Lord instead of your circumstances. Then you will experience joy knowing that God is working in and through you! Remember also to pray that the nation’s leaders would find their joy in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:20-26

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Accidental Announcement

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It was a sad moment…one that was broadcast worldwide: Arizona Congressman Bob Stump solemnly announcing, from the floor of the House of Representatives in June 1998, that the comedian Bob Hope had died. The problem was that it wasn’t true. At the very moment Congressman Stump delivered the awful news, Bob Hope was enjoying a leisurely breakfast at his California home. As it turned out, the Associated Press had accidently posted an “advance obituary” of Mr. Hope on its website, and the message had been delivered to the Congressman.

They departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy.

Matthew 28:8

You can imagine the joy experienced by Jesus’ followers when they approached His tomb to discover that He was not dead, but alive. It was a moment that changed them forever, not only because of the miracle of the resurrection, but because the Savior had returned to assign them a task. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,” Jesus said, in what would become known as The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19).

As you pray for America and its leaders today, remember that you are here not just to fill time, but to fulfill His assignment—reaching others everywhere with the joyous news of God’s love. Make today count!

Recommended Reading: Matthew 28:8-20

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Reasons for Rejoicing

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One repentant sinner brings rejoicing to the streets of Heaven. Why? Surely the angels remember the dawn of creation when all Heaven sang, and perhaps they see in the redemption of that wayward one those first days, and thrill that he is now a new creation. Maybe it is a quieter angelic sigh of relief; because they know the future that would have awaited that one had he failed to turn from his wicked ways. Conceivably, the angels are delightfully gleeful watching that person’s name inscribed into the Lamb’s Book of Life and they anticipate greeting him on his blessed arrival.

There is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

Luke 15:10

Whatever their motives, what is your response? The angels of Heaven celebrate, but do you? Rejoicing is easy when you watch a major revival where throngs come to the Lord, but what about when that young man everyone had written off hangs his head in sorrowful repentance and finds salvation in Christ Jesus? Is not God’s mercy just as great?

As you pray today, examine your expressions of joy. Intercede for the members of government who need to find God’s mercy, grace and salvation – so Heaven’s hosts (and you) can rejoice anew.

Recommended Reading: Luke 15:1-10

 

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Filled With Joy

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Godliness is rarely mentioned today, but it should be the goal of every believer. Matthew records Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount to give you steps for that journey (Matthew 5:2-12). Acknowledge your sin and spiritual deficiency – be poor in spirit. Grieve over them – mourn and long for God’s forgiveness. Trust Him in every circumstance – show meekness. Long to do right – hunger and thirst for the righteousness of God. Endeavor to do good – show mercy. Desire inward cleansing – seek to be pure in heart. Actively promote peace – be a peacemaker.

Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.

Matthew 5:12

What reward shall come to you? It may be persecution. “Oh, joy!” you say. And it should be! David, the man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14) suffered greatly, but in the midst of every calamity, he recounted his joy in the Lord. God’s mighty works in his life encouraged David to trust in the One who had always saved him. Joy filled his heart.

Take his attitude to heart, dear one. The June devotionals will remind you that joy is expected of you. Let your testimony and your prayers for yourself and this nation be filled with it.

Recommended Reading: Isaiah 55:6-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. –  Hope That Grows

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On secular college campuses around the nation, students are bombarded with anti-God sentiment. In the workplace, intolerance for Christian ideals has become more obvious. Stand behind a religious principle and reap a backlash.

Born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

I Peter 1:3

Jesus warned His disciples, “You will be hated by all for my name’s sake.” (Luke 21:17) Peter wrote his letter to Christians who would endure fiery trials and persecutions. But his message was “Be Hopeful!” For the believer, it is a living hope – its foundation is the Word of God, and the One who has secured it is the living Son of God who rose from the dead.

Warren Wiersbe wrote that this “living hope is one that has life in it and therefore can give life to us. Because it has life, it grows and becomes greater and more beautiful as time goes on. Time destroys most hopes; they fade and then die. But the passing of time only makes a Christian’s hope that much more glorious.”;

Don’t be a compromising Christian. God’s promises never fail; His grace will keep you when the going gets tough. Rely on Him. Be a strong witness for Christ in a nation that needs your prayers.

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18

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Presidential Prayer Team;  J.R. – Never Fear

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Mordecai Ham was a fearless evangelist. Upon arrival in town prior to his big tent revival services, he would seek out the most notorious citizens – often mafia leaders or influential atheists – and proceed to pray for them and plead with them until they surrendered to Christ. Ham’s meetings were so spiritually effective that he regularly received death threats. Yet nothing would deter him. Good thing, too…one of his converts was a teenager named Billy Graham.

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.

Psalm 31:24

God, through His Holy Spirit, will give you the boldness necessary to declare the truth in love to others. The key is to dismiss your fear. II Timothy 1:7 says “God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” It’s tough to speak out for biblical values in society today. Few people will listen, and many who do may disregard or even ridicule you. But America’s leaders need to hear the voices of those whom God has called.

Who does the Lord want you to pray and plead for? Is it for a notorious work colleague, a troublesome family member, or even a politician with whom you disagree? As He leads, speak with confidence…and never fear! He’ll be with you.

Recommended Reading: Joshua 24:14-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – From Here to Eternity

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A glass half empty or half full? Pessimist or optimist? You can glance across your life and see hurts, hardships, disappointments, even betrayals. Or, you can do as the Apostle Paul, acknowledging his circumstances, but focusing on what was ahead for him.

It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored.

Philippians 1:20

One problem with being a half-empty pessimist is that it becomes difficult to approach the future with any enthusiasm. If you are always a victim, you have little consciousness of the good things God has done for you. The optimist, on the other hand, looks forward with anticipating to seeing Him do even better things in their future. Just check today: Are you living in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ? Are you loving with His love? Are you forgiving as you’ve been forgiven? Are you expectant about the future? Your today is the gateway to your tomorrows.

Pray that God will help you release past hurts and disappointments, and fix your eyes on how He’s at work right now – and will be from here to eternity. Pray, too, for America, and know God is in control…no matter what happens.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 1:12-20

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Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Upgrade on Life

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Arriving at the airport, a newlywed couple was disappointed to find their honeymoon flight seats changed and no longer beside each other. A steward discovered they were just married, and he asked them to get their things and follow him. He led them to first class, informed them they had been upgraded and wished them a happy honeymoon. During the flight, they enjoyed comfortable seats, chilled champagne and an endless supply of food and drinks. They didn’t pay more or get to their destination quicker, but the trip was sure more enjoyable.

I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

John 10:10

Jesus came to Earth so those who believe in Him could have an upgrade on life. When you live life in your own power, it often becomes a monotonous, dull routine – just the time spent between birth and death. However, a life lived through the power of the Spirit enjoys an abundance of peace, love and grace.

Do you feel stuck in the economy section? Jesus has already paid for your upgrade. As you pray today, thank God that He gives an abundant, “first class” life. Pray as well for the nation and its leaders to seek and value life.

Recommended Reading: I John 5:3-15

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Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Open Heart

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Jim Morrison and The Doors – you probably know them as an icon of the sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll movement. What you likely don’t know is that the band’s name was taken from Aldous Huxley’s book The Doors of Perception. Huxley’s work proposed that if perception were cleansed, like cleaning a dirty window, a person could look into the other side of existence – eternity. On that philosophical foundation, an entire generation attempted to open their consciousness to find enlightenment: many times that meant taking psychedelic drugs. Today, we know those drugs are brain damaging rather than a doorway to heaven.

And there I will give her vineyards and make the Valley of Achor a door of hope.

Hosea 2:15

The Bible plainly tells those seeking enlightenment they need only to knock on the door of faith with a believing heart and the Creator of all things will gladly respond; no drugs or other ploys required. Yet many still fall for gimmicks and imitations of hope…because just asking and simply believing seems too easy.

Pray for America’s leadership today. Their jobs are ever more challenging, requiring insight and wisdom. Pray they will avoid dangerous imitations and humbly seek the real God of hope, opening the door of their heart to His ways.

Recommended Reading: II Chronicles 1:8-12

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Honoring Memorial Day

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Five Minutes to Midnight

Small notice was paid last month when Martyl Langsdorf died. In 1947, she designed the Doomsday Clock. In 1953, it stood just two ticks from midnight. By 1991, it retreated to 11:43pm. Today, the scientists who adjust the minute hand according to annual assessments of threats to humanity have set the clock at five minutes to midnight.

At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.

Philippians 2:10

News of wars, famines, earthquakes, spiritual deception, increases in wickedness point toward the imminent return of the Lord. Jesus and Paul both taught Christians to wait and be watchful, ready and sober, especially as you see the day of His return approaching. There will come a time when everyone will face God – when every knee will bow. Jesus’ absolute authority over Heaven and Earth will be acknowledged. There will be no exceptions.

Christian, are you living a watchful life, fully committed in anticipation of His return? Since you may be the only Bible someone else might read, does your witness give hope at five minutes to midnight? Pray for your own closer walk with your Savior, and intercede for your fellow citizens and your leaders that they will bow their knees…not in forced surrender, but in thanksgiving.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 2:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Train Up a Child

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The Barna Group estimates that about 60 percent of young people stop going to church. Those who remain do so because they have been trained with a biblical worldview, both parents attend church regularly and they teach by example. The numbers significantly drop when only one parent is faithful in spiritual matters.

For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.

Psalm 71:5

Often adults get too wrapped up in their own lives and leave most of the training to teachers, peers and media. When the disciples rebuked parents for bringing their infants to Jesus, the Lord scolded them by saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” (Luke 18:16) Another well-known verse says, “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6)

Today, ask God what you can do to help young people become disciples of Christ. Pray that He will send children and youth workers into this harvest field. Pray for the nation’s leaders and citizens (especially the younger ones) to find a church where they can learn, serve and grow in the Lord.

Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-13

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Defenses of Head and Heart

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What a joyous time for the believer! When Jesus comes a second time, the dead in Christ will rise and the living will join them to meet the Lord in the air (I Thessalonians 4:13-17). In the meantime, there is a vicious battle you must fight daily because your spiritual enemies are many, and mighty and malicious.

Put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation.

I Thessalonians 5:8

Put on your spiritual breastplate and stay watchful and sober. Faith in the God who is always with you will guard your heart against the temptations of pride, passion and self-conceit. Fervent love for Him will thwart temptations that might turn you away from Him and to another. Remember your helmet – the lively hope of salvation – your defense of the head. Don’t let the pleasures of sin intoxicate you. Understand the great gift God’s mercy and grace bestow upon you. As one who puts your trust in Christ, be encouraged to live on the path of obedience to Him. Let nothing shake the hope of salvation from you.

He is Lord. Be grounded in His Word. Pray for this nation and its leaders…that none would miss out on the blessings of Jesus’ second coming.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Scripture Subversives

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It was denounced by politicians and religious leaders as a dangerous instrument that would only spread “subversive” ideas. But after Johannes Gutenberg began printing Bibles on his newly invented press, there was no stopping it. “It was one of the great moments in the history of Western civilization,” wrote historian William Manchester, “and printers throughout Christendom flocked to kindle their torches from it.” Soon, presses all over Europe were churning out Bibles, and the Word of God was available to the masses for the first time.

Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Romans 5:2

“Access” is something we take for granted today. Even a trip to the library has been rendered superfluous by modern technology. But it hasn’t always been that way and, in truth, how few of your neighbors and your nation’s leaders have yet obtained the access that is gained “by faith” to God’s grace. Don’t assume that easy access in any way diminishes your responsibility to share the Gospel with others. They still need to hear, from you, about the love of Christ.

As you pray today, ask God to make you a light unto the world – a spiritual torch from which others will be ignited.

Recommended Reading: Romans 10:14-18

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Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Broken Beauty

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Japanese ceramists have a word for it – kintsukuroi. It is the art of repairing pottery with gold or silver resinous lacquer and, with it, the philosophy that the piece is more beautiful for having been broken. There is no hiding the prior damage, no shame in the brokenness.

Hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Romans 5:5

Isaiah 64:8 reminds you that God is your potter, and you are the clay and the work of His hands. But suppose you fall and you break? Can He not pour the golden resin of His Holy Spirit into your life and mend the shattered parts? The poignancy inherent in the mended pot is not lost in your new, restored, beautifully-enhanced life.

Every week the news tells of more broken people across America, including people within government. Make it a matter of consistent prayer that they would acknowledge the Potter’s claims on their lives and then find salvation and hope in Christ. Finally, pray they would allow the Holy Spirit to flood their damaged lives with the golden love of the Father and fellow Christians, turning them into persons of beauty – all to His purpose and glory!

Recommended Reading: Romans 5:1-11

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Presidential Prayer Team;  G.C.- Radical Leap

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Flying silently through the air, soaring on the breeze, at peace yet exhilarated – it’s the reason most hang gliders risk injury and canceled insurance. You might marvel at anyone who would strap on a pair of man-made wings and jump off anything without benefit of a motor or landing gear. Avid gliders believe the experience of flying outweighs the danger.

Since we have such a hope, we are very bold.

II Corinthians 3:12

The Bible is full of stories about a similar type of folk; people willing to make a radical leap of faith, putting their earthly life and eternal hope into the unseen hands of an invisible God. To an unbelieving world it seems ludicrous to jeopardize your most precious positions to follow the teachings of a Jewish carpenter. Without understanding, holy acts of forgiveness and compassion may even seem like unwise choices.

What circumstance has grounded your faith today? Are you afraid the experience of walking in God’s ways will not outweigh the cost? Pray for discouraged believers across America today, that as the world watches, a passionate people of faith will rise up with such boldness that many will come to know the glorious hope of Christ.

Recommended Reading: Acts 10:39-43

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Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Timeless Truth

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God does not change what He says based on opinion polls, focus groups or the latest fad. His Word is timeless. In fact, one study found that of 15,000 writings by America’s Founding Fathers included in newspaper articles, pamphlets, books, monographs and other documents, 94 percent of all quotes either directly or indirectly cited the Bible. As a result, the Founding Fathers produced miraculous results as the U.S Constitution is currently the oldest operating document of any government in the world.

Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word.

Psalm 119:74

Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” (Matthew 24:35) God not only provides timeless truths for governing documents, but also for your life. As read the Bible each day, ask the Creator of the Universe to make His Word come alive to you. When you do, you will experience pure joy and incredible blessings that come from putting your hope in God’s unchanging promises.

Pray also that America’s leaders in the White House and on Capitol Hill personally seek His truth and strive to restore the godly foundation of this nation.

Recommended Reading: John 1:1-14

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Presidential Prayer Team;  C.H. – In His Will

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When loved ones die, emotions run high and feelings are often hurt over inheritances. Even the closest of families can squabble over who gets grandmother’s prized milk glass dishes. Usually, the discord is not a result of the dollar amount associated with an article; it’s about feeling valued.

The hope to which he has called you…the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.

Ephesians 1:18

Today’s verse refers to an inheritance as well. As Christians, you are “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.” (Romans 8:17) Your heritage includes priceless items such as hope, grace, peace, acceptance and eternal life, just to name a few. The good news is you don’t need to worry about sharing. God’s inheritance is never ending. No one has to fight over it, and there’s always enough for one more.

Consider where you’ve placed importance in your own family. Is it in an antique pocket watch or a godly legacy? Allow others to find joy in “the hope to which he has called you” by sharing Christ’s love. Ask God to help you focus on your Christian heritage and lead others to know Jesus. Pray, also, for your nation’s leaders to find their own inheritance in God’s kingdom – each of them are in His will.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 6:19-24

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Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Storing Treasure

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Only half of Americans prepare wills. Fewer people plan their own funerals, though it would spare their families of this added difficulty. Though death’s a difficult topic to consider, it’s important to be prepared. And how much more important is it to plan for eternity?

It is with respect to the hope and the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial.

Acts 23:6

John 3:16 guarantees eternal life if you believe in Jesus…and though good works will not save you, the Bible teaches they will affect your life in heaven. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19-20)

Though having a good life here on Earth is important, eternal things matter so much more. Research “reward” in a Bible concordance. List practical ways you can store up treasures in Heaven and begin doing them. Start by praying for this nation, particularly those you know who haven’t put their hope in Christ for their eternal future.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 6:1-6, 14-18