Tag Archives: Presidential Prayer Team

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Facing the Enemy

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An Army Field Artillery Instructor tells of the dissimilarity in his pupils during two time periods. From 1958-60, the students were lax and slept during lectures. However, the students from 1965-67 were alert and took notes. Class content was the same, so what made the difference? The students from 1965-67 were about to face the enemy in Vietnam.

Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.  I Corinthians 16:13

Paul wrote today’s verse to the church in Corinth. Spiritual enemies were against them then, just as they are against you today. Paul knew to fight the enemy, one must be prepared. There was confusion among believers then and today as to how to behave and what to believe, so Paul gave four simple commands: 1) Be watchful. Stay awake and aware of the enemy and temptations. Don’t let spiritual sleepiness throw you off guard; 2) Stand firm in the faith. Hold on to His truth. Don’t be seduced by false doctrines; 3) Act like men. Grow up into spiritual maturity. Don’t act like children being selfish and uncontrolled; and 4) Be strong. The strength will not come from you, but from God.

Pray today for you, the country, and its leaders to recognize the enemy and follow these commands given by Paul.

Recommended Reading: I Peter 5:5-12

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Rockslide

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Have you ever encountered a rockslide across the road while driving? It’s a travel frustration requiring hours of waiting and possibly a complete rerouting of your trip. Rockslides are triggered when rock, earth, plants and other debris lose their hold on each other and slide down to the lowest point.

Teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.  Acts 28:31

The Bible talks about two things that can cause a spiritual rockslide, greatly hindering your spiritual journey. In essence, these things block your effectiveness as a Christian. They don’t annul your salvation; they deter the results God may be working to accomplish through your prayers and efforts. The two issues are: personal sin in your life, and unforgiveness toward another person.

Are you missing passion, power and effectiveness in your prayers or in your relationship with Christ? Maybe there has been a rockslide in your heart. Ask God to reveal any sin in your life, and humbly request and accept His forgiveness. Then have an attitude of forgiveness toward the person who has sinned against you. Once the road is clear, you can get back on your way; teaching, leading and praying with boldness for others and for America.

Recommended Reading: Colossians 3:12-17

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – Rockslide

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Have you ever encountered a rockslide across the road while driving? It’s a travel frustration requiring hours of waiting and possibly a complete rerouting of your trip. Rockslides are triggered when rock, earth, plants and other debris lose their hold on each other and slide down to the lowest point.

Teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance. Acts 28:31

The Bible talks about two things that can cause a spiritual rockslide, greatly hindering your spiritual journey. In essence, these things block your effectiveness as a Christian. They don’t annul your salvation; they deter the results God may be working to accomplish through your prayers and efforts. The two issues are: personal sin in your life, and unforgiveness toward another person.

Are you missing passion, power and effectiveness in your prayers or in your relationship with Christ? Maybe there has been a rockslide in your heart. Ask God to reveal any sin in your life, and humbly request and accept His forgiveness. Then have an attitude of forgiveness toward the person who has sinned against you. Once the road is clear, you can get back on your way; teaching, leading and praying with boldness for others and for America.

Recommended Reading: Colossians 3:12-17

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – As the Day Nears…Love

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In his ministry, Paul was stoned, whipped and shipwrecked, among other unpleasant experiences. But there was one thing he couldn’t bear – not seeing the people he ministered to and fearing they may have been discouraged in their faith (I Thessalonians 3:1).

For now we live, if you are standing fast in the Lord.   I Thessalonians 3:8

After suffering persecution, he thought the Thessalonians may have become so discouraged that they’d depart from the truth. So he sent Timothy to check up on them. How he rejoiced when he heard that their faith was as strong as ever.

The second greatest commandment is to love people; their salvation, their faith, and their relationships are what matter most. In today’s driven society, you may be tempted to care more about what you have or what you’ve accomplished each day, than about where other people are in their faith. Examine your heart. Have you become distracted by the cares of the world? If so, renew your commitment to pray for the faith of your friends, family and fellow citizens of America. Plus, don’t neglect to meet together, but encourage one another…“and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:25)

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Enabled from Within

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Isaiah 41:10 says: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” To the Israelites, God’s protection was demonstrated in deliverance from external enemies. But His power took on a whole new dimension for New Testament believers.

God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.  II Timothy 1:7

Salvation through Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection meant deliverance from forces hostile to the inner life of man. God still used His power on behalf of His people, but the focus now was its release through Jesus’ people. The apostle Paul wonderfully prayed that the Ephesians would have “the eyes of [their] hearts enlightened” so they could know the hope to which [Jesus] had called them, the riches of His glorious inheritance, and “the immeasurable greatness of his power toward [those] who believe.” (Ephesians 1:18-19)

God can work through you, believer in Christ…in your prayers for your family and this nation, and in your actions. Call upon Him to enable you to do far more than you could ask or think because of the power at work within you (Ephesians 3:20).

Recommended Reading: Ephesians 2:4-10

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Holiday Holiness

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Presidents are criticized for almost everything, including their vacations. George W. Bush had a “lackadaisical approach to the world’s most important day job” according to one newspaper which disapproved of his frequent trips to his Texas ranch. And President Obama has been attacked for expensive and frequent trips to Hawaii. Whatever your opinion, remember this: A president is never really on vacation. One historian wrote this about President Franklin D. Roosevelt: “Even while relaxing…he received mail, reviewed dispatches, signed and vetoed legislation, met with political and world leaders, and delivered press conferences and speeches.”

Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.   I Corinthians 15:58

Does “steadfast” and “always abounding” describe your work for the Lord, or are you given to taking frequent holidays from your prayer life, Bible study and service to others? God’s desire and direction for you is to “be ready in season and out of season.” (II Timothy 4:2)

If you have grown weary in doing good, then you may not be drawing on the proper source for your strength. Today, ask God to increase your faithfulness. And as you lift up your leaders, pray that they govern with godly wisdom – in hectic days and holidays.

Recommended Reading: II Timothy 4:1-8

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Who God Is

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Effective prayer depends on true faith.

Whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.

Matthew 21:22

Think about it. What’s the point of bringing a matter before the God of all creation if you really don’t think He’s going to do something about it? His power, mercy and grace far exceed human expectations. Doubting prayers are unbelieving, fearful prayers. Jesus said you must have faith. Where does that level of faith come from?

Faith comes by letting the Word of God permeate your life. Your regular Bible study engages and strengthens belief within you. Knowing, understanding and submitting to the Scriptures gives insight into the heart of the Lord, making your prayers more in line with His will. As you delight in Him, your heart will be transplanted with new desires that match His own. Your maturing faith will be shown in your total dependence on God.

As you become more aware of who God is, you’ll see your faith deepen and your prayers change. Let your focus become more intent on the One you are praying to. Then, and perhaps only then, will you see great answers to your prayers that will leave you awed, humbled and more in love with your Savior – and make a noticeable difference in your home and nation!

Recommended Reading: Psalm 37:23-31

Presidential Prayer Team; G.C. – WJPF

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What is the WJPF? It’s the World Jigsaw Puzzle Federation, an association following Olympic standards governing jigsaw puzzle competitions around the world. The reigning champion, Sophie de Goncourt, completed a 500-piece puzzle in 53 minutes and 34 seconds to claim her title. How did she do it?

I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.  I Corinthians 3:6

Understandably, she won’t reveal her secret to success, but one thing is certain: all 500 pieces of Sophie’s puzzle had to stay on the table and wait to be plugged in at just the right spot. Imagine how much longer it would’ve taken if half her puzzle pieces were sitting in the box?

The Bible says God has a specific plan in mind for the world. He fulfills His plan through people; the kind of people that are in the right place, waiting to be plugged in at the right time. When each person in God’s Kingdom occupies their unique position, then the gospel is spread, lives are changed, and there is healing in the land.

Are you in your place, available to take your part in God’s plan? If not, pray and ask the Lord to get you out of the box, on the game table…and all set to get in the scene. You are a vital piece to accomplishing His plan for America!

Recommended Reading: Colossians 1:9-14

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – No Substitute

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Over 50 million students are headed back to school in America. Millions of students mean millions of teachers. Unfortunately, of those teachers, some will need to call in sick. An estimated 15,000 educators are ill on any given school day – so substitute teachers must fill in the gaps. Regrettably, students often take advantage of their replacement instructors. So when a returning educator gets a good report in her absence, it’s a big deal.

Rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.   Colossians 2:5

Paul must have felt like one of those absent teachers when he received good news from the church in Colossae. He brags in today’s passage on how the new Christians were in order and standing strong in their faith. Paul knew how easy it was to fall away when the teacher wasn’t around. He’d seen it happen in many other churches.

Christ is the ultimate teacher. What you can learn through Him is limitless. There is no substitute for His truth. Is your life is a reflection of “good order” and firm faith? Ask God to strengthen your character, and then intercede for your nation’s leaders. Pray He will give them discernment when it comes to making choices that affect America. You’ll make Him proud when He returns.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 25:14-29

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – Your Name Here

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Imagine you committed a crime. When you appear before a judge, you will need a lawyer. This attorney will represent you and help give you confidence to face the judge with boldness.

We have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.  Ephesians 3:12

In the same way, Satan accuses you of all your sins to God. Yet the Bible says, “If anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (I John 2:1) Jesus appears before God on your behalf and says, “Father, I know (your name) is a sinner, but repentance has been made and my blood has brought cleansing. (Your name) belongs to me.”

As a result of Christ’s death and resurrection, you have the authority to enter directly into God’s presence with freedom and confidence! He loves you completely – and is always waiting with open arms to welcome you as His child and not as a guilty slave.

The Lord knows you by name…so talk with Him about everything. Intercede for your family, friends and neighbors. Regularly pray that the nation’s leaders will make choices based upon godly principles. Expectedly ask that many of them who don’t have a personal relationship with Christ will turn their hearts toward God. Then thank Him for their changed lives!

Recommended Reading: Romans 8:31-39

 

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P. – Growing Faith

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Like all humans, Robert Ludlow, the tallest man that ever lived at 8 feet 11.1 inches, started out as a tiny embryo. A newborn elephant grows from about 200 pounds to as much as eight tons. A two millimeter mustard seed can become a tall tree.

A grain of mustard seed, which, when sown…is the smallest of all the seeds.  Mark 4:31

Jesus said if you had faith as big as a mustard seed, you could command a mulberry tree to be planted in the sea, or you could move mountains (Luke 17:6 and Matthew 17:21-22). Yet you may become discouraged, thinking, “If mustard seed-sized faith moves trees and mountains, my faith must be microscopic.” Remember…embryos, baby elephants, mustard seeds and faith grow. You may not be able to raise the dead or relocate landscapes, but you can exercise and nurture the faith you do have.

How do you grow your faith? Know God is your authority (Matthew 8:5-13). Pray for faith (Luke 22:32), meditate on who Jesus is (Acts 3:16), and read the Bible (Romans 10:17). Be encouraged by the faith of others (Acts 14:22), and recall answers to your prayers, knowing God can do anything (Romans 4:21). Whatever the size of your faith, thank God for it and use it to seek Him concerning your personal needs, your family, your church…and your country.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 6:25-33

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – Encouraging Attitude

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The people of Israel were trapped between the Red Sea and an advancing, unhappy, powerful army. You likely recall Moses’ command to them: “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today.” (Exodus 14:13)

The gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand.  I Corinthians 15:1

The apostle Paul captured the same sentiment for the Corinthians. He said, in effect: I have preached to you Christ…His death, burial and resurrection. Don’t be swayed by wickedness surrounding you. Hold steadfast to your faith (I Corinthians 15:1-2).

Do you understand how grand a message that is…and the impact that believing it can make upon your life? You are a child of God – accepted by Him and protected by Him. He desires that you have an attitude of cheerful courage, rejoicing in His love and faithfulness. Satan relishes your retreat to the way of the world, but God will have you stand tall, hold to your principles and respond to His guidance.

Bombarded daily with news of government corruption and human failings, remain firm in your faith. Be encouraged in the Word. Pray for God’s leading…particularly for those in national leadership. May they know His grace and truth and act upon it.

Recommended Reading: I Corinthians 15:50-58 

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Persistent Prayer

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Imagine what it would be like to be a famous evangelist who had led more than 100,000 people to faith in Christ, only to have your own brother reject Christianity. That was the predicament for R.A. Torrey. Although he was blessed with a prolific ministry, prayers for his brother seemed to go unanswered. In fact, Torrey prayed for his brother every single day for 15 years…with no result. It was truly like praying for a mountain to move.

Say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move.  Matthew 17:20

Then one day – seemingly out of the blue –Torrey’s brother accepted Christ. Torrey’s mantra became “Pray Through!” He encouraged others not to simply pray for something once or twice, but to keep praying until God answers. “We should be very careful about what we ask from God,” he said, “but when we do begin to pray for a thing, we must never give up until we get it, or until God definitely makes it very clear that it is not His will to give it.”

Has something or someone – a need, a leader, a loved one – dropped from your prayer list because the request seemed hopeless? Today, pray boldly with renewed hope and vigor until your answer comes. “Pray Through!”

Recommended Reading: James 5:13-18

Presidential Prayer Team; P.G. – Consider the Dandelion

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A dandelion’s little yellow blossom matures into a puff ball whose white fuzz attached to the seed acts as a parasol. The wind catches it and can carry the seed sometimes miles from the parent plant.

Behold, the days are coming…when I will sow the house of Israel.  Jeremiah 31:27

Like so many fields of dandelion puffs hit by strong winds of adversity, enslavement and dispersion, the Jewish people spent centuries away from their homeland. Jeremiah foretold their return from Babylonian captivity, but his prophecy is no less true to today as the great diaspora continues their return to Israel. As seeds sown by the hand of God, they have prospered in their covenant land.

In the New Testament, Paul reminds Christians of another day coming. Though warned of future adversity, you are to remain vigilant and encourage one another. God doesn’t expect you to “put on a bold face,” but rather He gives you garments of courage: the breastplate of faith and love and the helmet of salvation.

Therefore, as you intercede for the nation today and offer your prayers for America’s leaders, beseech God to reveal Himself in undeniable ways to them, that they might find boldness to stand when coming winds of trouble blow.

Recommended Reading: I Thessalonians 5:1-11

Presidential Prayer Team; A.W. – Ready or Not

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According to a 2010 poll by the Pew Research Center, 41 percent of Americans believe Jesus will return to Earth by the year 2050.

Stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape. Luke 21:36

In today’s scripture, Jesus is teaching His disciples. He foretells the destruction of the temple and Jerusalem; He tells of wars, famines and signs in the heavens; and He gives the parable of the fig tree. Then He gives specific instructions for being ready for His return. His directive – watch and pray. Watch by being on guard at all times, avoiding spiritual sleepiness (I Thessalonians 5:6). Pray to maintain communion with Him and receive strength to rise above anything that might interfere with your readiness to meet Him. The exact date of His return has been purposefully withheld by God, but He has instructed you how to be ready.

Allow your awareness that His return could happen at any moment to direct your life each day. Let it determine how you spend your time and money. Let it fill you with hope through crises and motivate you towards Godly living. As you do, pray for the leaders of this nation to recognize time may be short and to return to Him in order to be ready.

Recommended Reading: Matthew 22:1-14

Presidential Prayer Team; C.H. – Courage on a Camel

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Often the setting of adventure stories, the Sahara desert has a reputation for danger that is no exaggeration. So why would 20 men choose to load up camels once a month and cross the world’s hottest lands? They are boldly carrying the Word of God to the Islamic people. To avoid their Bibles being discovered, these Christians are willing to risk potentially fatal desert conditions to bring His truth to those who need it.

And he entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly.  Acts 19:8

The apostle Paul also took risks in sharing the good news of Christ. “Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I was adrift at sea.” (II Corinthians 11:25) Sharing Jesus takes courage – even in the relative safety of America, where biblical principles are under more scrutiny than ever.

People question the legitimacy of Jesus as God’s Son as well as the Bible being the true Word of God. Christ followers must have courage to stand in the face of attack. Pray for God to give you the courage to share His truth, even when it’s not the popular viewpoint. Then ask Him to strengthen Christians in the House and the Senate to not bend or sway to opposition.

Recommended Reading: Romans 1:8-17

Presidential Prayer Team; H.L.M. – A Sweet Message

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Corrie ten Boom was a Dutch Christian who risked her life to save Jews from the Nazi Holocaust during World War II. After the war, she visited a prison camp which housed some of the former Nazi female guards from Ravensbruck, where she and her family had been imprisoned. Corrie asked God to shine through her to these women hardened by war.

As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it.  Matthew 13:23

After speaking twice without any visible response, Corrie prayed. Then God spoke to her heart, with one simple word: chocolate. Corrie realized she had a box of chocolates, something unavailable anywhere in post-war Germany and an extravagance for these prisoners. Corrie returned to speak to them and offered the chocolate treats. Suddenly the prisoners were receptive and their hardened hearts softened. Many of the women gave their lives to Jesus Christ that day!

Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:19 “that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel.” As you spend time reading God’s Word and praying for the nation and its leaders, ask Him for creative opportunities to share His love. When you do, you will reap a sweet harvest of changed lives!

Recommended Reading: I Corinthians 3:6-15

 

Presidential Prayer Team; C.P.- Determine to be Determined

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Harry Truman was an example of determination. He was a quiet, unassuming man who found a huge responsibility dropped in his lap when he inherited the presidency. He believed in ending World War II (enough to release the atomic bombs), hoped for America’s recovery, and endured tensions with the Soviet Union and many other problems. “America was not built on fear,” he said. “America was built on courage, on imagination and an unbeatable determination to do the job at hand.”

Love…believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.   I Corinthians 13:7

In the Bible, Daniel interceded for his country, fasting and praying for 21 days, persistently committed to receiving an answer. Ultimately, a man with “eyes like flaming torches” told Daniel his prayers were heard immediately, even though he and Michael were hindered by “the prince of the kingdom of Persia.” (Daniel 10) Even against spiritual opposition, Daniel’s prayers were being honored by God.

In today’s verse, we see three characteristics of love. With God’s love dwelling in you, you can have the determination to believe God can do anything; hope because He answers prayers, and endure to see His answers for this country. In love, determine to be as determined as Daniel and courageous as Truman, praying for America – believing, hoping and enduring.

Recommended Reading: Luke 18:1-8

Presidential Prayer Team; J.K. – An Intimate Relationship

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Sometimes it’s hard to turn down a request from a small, smiling child. That special little one may have captured your heart at the time of their birth, but now that he or she has grown older, you have a much more difficult time refusing them. You know them…you love them…you care for them.

Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do.   John 14:13

And so it is with Jesus. He knows you, loves you and cares for you. Thankfully, He always knows what is best for His child. Additionally, He wants you to understand more of what pleases Him and is beneficial to you. As you build on the relationship that God began with you – through study of His Word and prayer – there is freedom for you to share your intimate thoughts and desires. The Lord will respond and convey to you the wisdom to ask of Him those things that please Him…those things that will bring glory to His name and further His work. After all, that should be your real goal.

Believer, the God who formed you loves you and cares for you. Know Him. Love Him. Then be bold in your prayers for your family, your neighbors and the nation’s leaders. He desires to answer you.

Recommended Reading: I John 5:10-21

Presidential Prayer Team; J.R. – Basket Case

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An investment counselor will tell you to diversify, while your grandmother will advise you not to put all your eggs in one basket. The principle is the same. How was Bernie Madoff – the New York financial advisor who swindled hundreds of investors out of billions of dollars – able to ruin so many lives? Because they entrusted him with everything. They didn’t listen to grandma’s sound advice.

In the morning sow your seed, and at evening withhold not your hand.  Ecclesiastes 11:6

Solomon adds his voice in Ecclesiastes 11:6. After sowing your seed, he says, don’t go sit on the porch and wait for results. Get busy doing something else, “for you do not know which will prosper, this or that, or whether both alike will be good.” Today, consider how you might diversify your finances, your service…and your prayers. Do you need greater wisdom in the way you manage money? Are there loved ones or neighbors you’ve neglected to help? Are you praying only for politicians who share your viewpoint?

Take a bold step and ask God to enlarge your horizons and expand your influence. Withhold not your hand from things you can do to make a difference!

Recommended Reading: Ecclesiastes 11:1-10