PRAY FIRST

Pray For Your Local Church

August 8, 2021 • John 1:12–13, Acts 2:42, James 5:16, Ephesians 3:15

How to Pray for Your Local Church The uplifting and refreshing presence of God is upon a church where God’s people have humbled themselves to pray! When we were born again, we were born into a family—our church family (Ephesians 3:15, John 1:12-13). God purposed this inter-relationship for our spiritual good. We need each other in united prayer and prayer warfare. (See Acts 2:42 and James 5:16 .) Every New Testament local church was exhorted to pray without ceasing. Prayer with fasting is practiced. Consider: The church at Ephesus was exhorted to pray always (Ephesians 6:18). The church at Thessalonica was told to “Pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17). The church at Rome was admonished to “be constant in prayer” (Romans 12:12). The church at Colosse was exhorted to “continue in prayer with thanksgiving steadfastly” (Colossians 4:2). The church at Philippi was encouraged to not worry about anything . . . but in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made know to God (Philippians 4:6). The Hebrews were urged to “continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God” (Hebrews 13:15). Around A.D. 400, Chrysotom wrote, “What we cannot obtain by solitary prayer . . . we may by cooperative prayer.” The uplifting and refreshing presence of God is upon a church where God’s people have humbled themselves to pray! By prayer we are talking about more than a few minutes here and there. We speak of focused prayer …groanings . . . cries from the heart . . . fasting . . . seeking God’s face (Romans 8:26). We are keenly aware of spiritual forces at work in the congregation and also outside the church. Preaching, teaching, lecturing, discipling—without prayer—have little impact against these powers (Zechariah 4:6). Every local church must be united in unceasing, intercessory, concentrated, prevailing prayer! There is unusual power in united prayer. Jesus said, “My house shall be called the house of prayer” (Matthew 21:13). When you pray for your local church, pray for: 1. YOUR PASTOR AND HIS FAMILY Pray that God would anoint your pastor and his wife to be the godly leaders that the local church needs (I John 2:27). Pray that they would be strengthened physically and that their financial needs would be met (Phillippians 4:19). Pray that they would have wisdom in rearing their own children in the fear of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). 2. SUNDAY SCHOOL AND CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES Pray that God would anoint and inspire the teachers to reach and teach the children on their level. Pray that the children’s hearts would be tender to the Lord and that they would receive the Holy Ghost even in their classrooms (Acts 2:39). Pray that the children would lead their unchurched parents to know Christ. 3. HOME BIBLE STUDIES AND OUTREACH MINISTRIES Pray that teachers and workers would be sensitive to the needs of those they meet. Pray that the hearts of the contacts would be fertile soil for the Word of God to take root and grow. Pray that the entire church would feel the burden to reach their world with the love of Christ and His gospel. 4. YOUTH MINISTRIES Pray that the youth staff—the youth pastor, youth leaders, Sunday school teachers, and others—would havegenuine love and concern for the youth of the church and city and the wisdom to deal with the manifold problems that face today’s youth. Pray that parents and older saints would be examples of righteousness for the youth to follow. Pray that the youth would learn to put God first in their lives (Matthew 6:33). 5. MUSIC MINISTRIES Pray that those involved in the music ministry would be divinely anointed as they play and sing unto the Lord. Pray that they would be sensitive to the move of the Spirit and complement the ministry of the Word. Pray that they, as more public examples of the church, would walk circumspectly before the Lord (Ephesians 5:15). 6. SINGLE MINISTRIES AND SUPPORT GROUPS Pray that the singles would find the companionship and emotional support they need within the church body. Pray that the other support groups would be understanding and compassionate as they reach out to those in need. Pray that those in material need would be drawn closer to Christ because of their problems. 7. DAUGHTER CHURCHES Pray for the ministers of the daughter church to be anointed and strengthened both spiritually and physically (III John 2). Pray that those attending the daughter work would pick up the burden—both spiritually and financially. Pray that the community surrounding the new work would be receptive to the Word of God (II Thessalonians 3:1). 8. PRAYER MINISTRIES Pray for the leaders of the prayer ministry to be strengthened physically and spiritually—intercession is taxing both to the body and spirit. Pray that they would be sensitive to the leading of the Spirit and to the needs of the church. Pray that others would have a burden to join the prayer ministry. 9. MEDIA MINISTRIES Pray that the media ministries of the church would be tools of evangelism and encouragement. Pray that God would anoint the hearts of those that hear the tapes and see the videos to be receptive to the Word of God. Pray that the church dramas and newsletters would make an eternal impact on lives. Praying for your local church is not only an obligation, it is a wonderful privilege. Heaven and hell respond to those who pray (II Chronicles 7:14; Matthew 16:18). Your prayers can bring revival, healing, reconciliation, and salvation. Please pray for your local church. Produced by World Network of Prayer, United Pentecostal Church International

Put On Your Spiritual Armor

August 9, 2021 • Ephesians 6:11–17

TAKE ON THE WHOLE ARMOR "Put on the whole armour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood; but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God; that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God " (Eph. 6:11-17) The Helmet of Salvation: "Lord, protect my mind. Keep my mind and eyes focused on you. Let me think right. Let me view things through your eyes. Let me not be conformed to this world's way of thinking. Let me be transformed by the renewing of my mind, that I may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Rom. 12:2) "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee." (Isa. 26:3) "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace." (Rom. 8:6). “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 2:5) The Breastplate of Righteousness: "Lord, keep my heart right. Filter everything that comes into or out of my heart through your righteousness. Lead me in the paths of righteousness for your name's sake. (Ps.23:3) Come and rain your righteousness upon us." (Hos. 10:12) "Let me be easily impressed by your Spirit. Let me recognize the unction and guidance of your righteousness in my life. Let me be led by your Holy Spirit in all I say and do." Loins Girt about with Truth: "Lord, put a love of the truth in my heart. Gird me about with truth. Spirit of Truth, wrap yourself around me. Let truth keep me from all lies and all error and every false way. For your Word speaks of those who 'with all deceivableness of unrighteousness http://...perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved' (II Thess. 2:10). So let us love the truth, not just in word, but in deed." Feet Shod with the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace: "Lord, everywhere I go let me bring peace. Grant to me a willingness to be peaceful and to bring peace, a willingness to 'Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Heb. 12:14). Let me be a peacemaker. “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace…” (Isa. 52:7). Let me be a person who publishes and spreads your peace." "Lord, guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1:79). Set my feet in a large place safe from the pit. Send your angels to keep me from dashing my feet against a stone." (Ps. 91:12). The Shield of Faith: "Lord, quench all the fiery darts of the enemy. For you are the author and the finisher of my faith. Let me be able to truly say with Paul, 'I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God; who loved me, and gave himself for me.” (Gal. 2:20). "Your Word declares that, 'He shall cover thee with his feathers and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” (Ps. 91:4). Grant it, Lord! My prayer is that my 'faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” (I Cor. 2:5). Protect us from the enemy's attacks, Lord! The Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God: "I come on the offensive, with your Word as my weapon, against the gates of hell. Anoint your Word in my heart, mind, and mouth. Let your Word do a work in me and through me. Let me be a channel through which your living Word can flow powerfully and effectively." “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12). "The righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, Say not in thine heart, Who shall ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above:) Or, Who shall descend into the deep? (that is, to bring up Christ again from the dead.) But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth and in thy heart: that is the word of faith, which we preach.” (Rom 10:6-8).

Pray Through The Tabernacle Plan

August 10, 2021 • Exodus 25:1, Exodus 31:18

Praying Through The Tabernacle Plan (Heaven to Earth: The Tabernacle Today) THE TABERNACLE In Exodus, Chapters 25-31, God gave detailed instructions to Moses on Mt. Sinai for building the Tabernacle to house His presence. The Tabernacle was a tent-like structure inside a rectangular courtyard, facing East, surrounded by a fence made of pillars and linen hangings, and covered as area 45’ long, and 15’ wide, with a 15’ high covering. In the outer courtyard were the brazen alter nearest the entrance, and the laver of water. Inside the tent were the Holy Place (housing the candlestick, the table of shewbread, and the golden altar of incense) and the Holy of Holies (where the Ark of the Covenant rested). In and above the Holy of Holies, God appeared as a pillar of cloud or fire. Each article of furniture represents a different prayer focus that has a unique meaning corresponding with its original purpose defined by God, and a place in the “types and shadows” that exist between the Old and New Testaments. STEP 1- THE GATE Here, we enter into His gate with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise (Psalm 100:4). PRAYER FOCUS: We begin here. Thank God for every blessing and praise Him for His mighty acts. STEP 2 - THE BRAZEN ALTER For sinful man to even approach a holy God, there must be a blood sacrifice. Jesus died as an atonement for our sins. The brazen alter is where we repent and rid ourselves of sinful deeds and desires. PRAYER FOCUS: No one can repent for us. Jesus became our sacrifice so we could receive the gift of repentance. At the alter we search our hearts, acknowledge our sins, and ask God to forgive us. STEP 3 - THE LAVER OF WATER Once sins were atoned for, cleansing was necessary before serving in the Holy Place. We must daily look into the mirror of; be washed by; and apply His word as cleansing so we may serve and minister before Him. PRAYER FOCUS: Here we take time to read and meditate on God’s Word and allow it to wash over us and through us. When we examine ourselves with his Word as our guide, the Word will sanctify and cleanse us. STEP 4 - THE FIVE PILLARS Each pillar symbolizes one of the characteristics of God named by Isaiah. PRAYER FOCUS: “His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Pray for a revelation of the power of and for the office of each name to be present in our lives. STEP 5 - THE GOLDEN CANDLESTICK This oil is symbolic of the illuminating and revelatory power of the Holy Ghost. The priest’s duty was to keep the wicks trimmed so the lamp would exude pure light without smoke. PRAYER FOCUS: At this source of continuous shinning light ask God for spiritual revelation, direction and guidance. Pray for the anointing of the Holy Ghost to be active in our lives. Jesus said “I am the light of the world...” (John 8:12). STEP 6 - THE TABLE OF SHEWBREAD The table/bread symbolized God’s willingness to fellowship with man and him to be in His presence. PRAYER FOCUS: “I am the bread of life...” (John 6:35, 49-50). This bread of His presence is the “rhema” (God -breathed) Word of God to us. Ask God to speak to our hearts and allow us to commune with Him and hear His voice and follow Him. Pray for those who share His bread with us: missionaries, pastors, evangelists and church leaders. STEP 7 - THE GOLDEN ALTAR OF INCENSE Only the fire of repentance can burn the incense of our intercession. This is a symbol of our prayers and intercession going up to God as a sweet fragrance. PRAYER FOCUS: “Let my prayer be sent forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice” (Psalm 141:2). Here the incense offered is symbolic of our worship. After worship, we make intercession for others and for any situation in our lives that requires His intervention. Biblically, Jesus ever makes intercession for us. The golden altar of incense is where every request can be presented to a prayer-answering God. STEP 8 - THE VEIL It represents the flesh of Jesus rent in the final sacrifice and marked physical separation from the spiritual. Whoever went in the Holy of Holies entered into God’s very presence. PRAYER FOCUS: The veil is symbolic of the barrier of our flesh. Here we ask God to give us power to go beyond ourselves, to operate not on our own faith but on God’s faith. Meditate on the revelation of the name of Jesus and acknowledge Him as the Messiah - God manifest in the flesh as testified in the gospels. We enter into His presence. STEP 9 - THE HOLY OF HOLIES Inside the Holy of Holies was the Ark of the Covenant which contained three symbolic items: a golden pot of manna, Aaron’s staff that budded, and the stone containing the Ten Commandments. The Mercy Seat, where God communed with man, rested as the top of the ark. Because the ark was God’s throne among His people, it was a symbol of His presence and power. PRAYER FOCUS: Only the blood gives us access to the Holy of Holies. The Ten Commandments (The Law) is covered by the blood of the sacrifice. There is only mercy. We are free and without judgment. This is the place of intimacy with God. Now we may act in the authority represented by Aaron’s rod that budded. Through Christ, we take authority over things that work against us. We are surrounded by angels, and the miracle of the manna reminds us that whatever we need, He will supply.

Praise Prayer Plan

August 11, 2021 • Psalm 100

PRAISE PRAYER PLAN Many people consider prayers of praise to be the “highest” form of prayer. Why? A prayer of praise is all about God. We ask for nothing other than ways to please Him, and we seek nothing other than what will bring glory to Him. Our focus is centered on Him alone. “Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD” (Psalm 150:6). “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High” (Psalm 92:1). “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (I Peter 2:9). PRAYER POINTS: Lord, Your Word says You inhabit the praises of Your people. Let my praises create a habitation for you. Lord, You gave me a spiritual birth and created me anew in your image. Praise You for making my life abundant. Let not only my lips praise You, but also let my life and efforts bring glory to You. Help me to show forth your praises. God, help me to be constantly aware of Your presence so that everything I do will please You. I cannot praise You enough for the many blessings You bestow on me daily. I praise You for fulfilling Your promise to provide my every need. You are wonderful, counselor, the mighty God, the everlasting father, and the prince of peace. I praise You because of who You are! You are omnipotent, omnipresent, and omniscient. I praise you because no god can claim to be Your equal- You are incomparable. Thank You for Your name, the strong tower I can run into for safety. Praise You for the power in Your name to heal, to save, and to deliver. Praise the Lord! I praise You, extol You, and lift Your name on high. Wonderful are Your ways and mighty are Your acts. In the midst of trials that come my way, I will praise You as Paul and Silas did at the midnight hour. Lord, you are high and lifted up. Let Your Shekinah glory fall as I praise Your name. “I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works” (Psalm 9:1). “I will bless the LORD at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soulshall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together” (Psalm 34:1-3). “In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me” (Psalm 56:4). “I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations” (Psalm 57:9). “Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations” (Psalm 100)

Praying The Lord's Prayer Pattern

August 12, 2021 • Matthew 6:1–13, Luke 11:1–5

“THE LORD'S PRAYER” The pattern of prayer that Jesus gave His disciples when they asked, Lord Teach us to Pray. "Our Father…” "Lord, we are thankful that we can call you Father by virtue of the blood of Christ and the Spirit of adoption. You are our Father, the authority over us, our care provider, and our counselor. Build your character and attributes into our lives, Lord. Allow us to be partakers of your divine nature." "Which art in heaven…” Your throne is in heaven, Lord. You are high and lifted up. Your thoughts are above my thoughts - but elevate my thoughts by granting to me the mind of Christ. If everyday I declare heaven's priorities by prayer, I trust that your priorities will become my priorities on earth. Your ways are higher than my ways - but elevate my ways by enabling me to walk in the Holy Ghost." "Hallowed be thy name…” "Lord, you are my everything! Everything I need, I find in Jesus! You are Jhvh-Hoseenu, the Lord my maker, my creator. You are Jhvh-Rohi, the Lord my shepherd. Keep me, Lord. Lead me to green pastures and still waters. You are Jhvh-Jireh, the Lord my provider and provision. Supply all of my needs according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus. You are Jhvh-Shaiom, the Lord my peace. Grant to me your peace, that peace that passes all understanding. You are Jhvh-Rophe, the Lord my healer. Grant to me good health in spirit, sow and body. You are Jhvh-Tsidkenu, the Lord my righteousness. You are Jhvh-Shammal, the Lord who is there, never leaving, never forsaking me, a very present help in trouble. You are Jhvh-Nissi, the Lord my banner. I’m on your side, Lord, standing for you and your cause. You are Jhvh-M'Kaddesh, the Lord who sanctifies and makes me clean. You are Jhvh- Tsebaoth, the Lord of host, the captain of the army of the host of the Lord, the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. You are Jhvh-Heleyon, the Lord most high. Keep my focus on you Lords not on the things of earth. "Thy kingdom come thy will be in earth as it is in heaven…” "Hasten the day spoken of in Revelation 11:15 when the kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdoms of our Lord and His Christ. Hasten the day referred to in Daniel 7 when your saints shall possess the kingdom. You said, 'The kingdom of heaven suffereth violence and the violent take it by force.' We come as your great army pushing back the kingdom of the adversary and establishing your kingdom, in Jesus name." "Let your kingdom come and your will be done in me, my family (mate, children, and other family members), and my church family (Pastors, leadership team, faithfulness of people, harvest). Let your kingdom come and your will be done in our nation and world. Put up whom you will and put down whom you will. Let your plan unfold, in Jesus name." "Give us this day our daily bread…” "Lord, supply all of our need according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Give us more than we need for ourselves so that we might have to give to those who ask us of the hope that is in us, with meekness and fear. Let us live today in the will of God. Grant to us good work habits, a spirit of submission and obedience to your will, let us be cheerful and generous givers - for freely we have received, may we freely give. We believe it is your will to prosper us for the cause of the gospel - for your Word declares, "Give, and it shall be given unto you,' good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. As with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measure to you again.” (Lk 6:38) "Beloved I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (III Jn 2) “Forgive our debts as we forgive our debtors…” Therefore I say unto you, “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” (Mark 11:24-26) “And lead us not into temptation.. but deliver us from evil…” "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations…" (II Pet 2:9) "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who, will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”" (I Cor 10:13)" "Lord, I pray a hedge of protection around me, my family, and my church family – in Jesus’ name.” “For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory forever…” “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” (Heb 13:15)

Praying the Prayer of Jabez

August 13, 2021 • 1 Chronicles 4:10

THE PRAYER OF JABEZ Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let Your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request. 1 CHRONICLES 4:10 The Prayer of Jabez is a helpful model of a prayer we can pray every day. 1. BLESSING Jabez begins his prayer by asking God for His blessing. We need more of God’s blessing to be better equipped to make a difference for His Kingdom. We need more provision, more spiritual gifting, more wisdom, and greater understanding so that we can bless others with what God has given us. James 4:2-3 tells us, “You do not have because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.” God wants to bless us, but He is often waiting for us to ask with the right heart. We have a big God, and we can be bold in asking for His blessing. As James points out, God sees our heart, and we get His attention when we ask for blessing with the motivation to help others. “Oh, that You would bless me...”1 CHRONICLES 4:10 Ask God for His blessing. Recognize your need for His provision, and set your heart toward wanting more than you need so that you can be a blessing to others. PRAYER: “God, I pray that You would bless me with more than I need so that I can bless others. I pray for more provision, that You would equip me to give generously to others and meet their practical needs in Your Name. I ask You to give me greater spiritual gifting so that I can strengthen the Church and be more effective for the Kingdom of God. I pray for an abundance of wisdom and discernment so that I can point others to You and make decisions that honor You. I ask You to help me grow in understanding of Your truth and Your heart for people so I can do my part to bring Your Kingdom to earth. Help me keep Your generous blessings in perspective, so that I never become self-serving but stay focused on using what You’ve given me to serve other people.” 2. INFLUENCE Next, Jabez asks for more influence. As God’s blessings increase in our lives, we ask for and experience greater opportunity to influence the world around us for Him. God has the power to bless us greatly, and He also has the power to open doors of opportunity for us to make a difference. We want to walk through doors that only He can open, and He responds when we specifically ask Him to give us more influence for His Name. “Enlarge my territory...” 1 CHRONICLES 4:10 Pray for more influence. Knowing that God can make a way, trust in Him to open doors and lead you on the best path for your life and for His glory. Ask Him for boldness to take the steps He lays out for you. PRAYER: “God, make me effective in my sphere of influence, and open new doors for me to be able to impact and reach even more people for Your glory. Give me a heart to make a difference in the lives of people I have never reached out to before and boldness to walk in obedience to Your calling. Help me to be a good steward of the responsibility You’ve entrusted to me. I pray for greater territory to impact for Your glory.” 3. PRESENCE In order to have lasting influence, we need God’s presence in our lives. Through His power at work within us, God can do more than we could ever ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). As we ask for blessing and influence, we also need to ask for His presence as Jabez did so that we are not operating out of our own strength but through the presence and the hand of our Almighty God. “Let Your hand be with me...”1 CHRONICLES 4:10 In humility, acknowledge your need for God’s presence. Depend on Him and ask for more of Him in your life today. PRAYER: “Lord, I know that without You, I am nothing. I cannot do what You’ve called me to do on my own. I am desperate for Your presence in my life. I depend on You completely. I recognize that the same Spirit that raised Christ Jesus from the dead lives in me. Through the power of Your Spirit, I pray that You will help me succeed in the opportunities You’ve given me. Thank You for being with me. I would never want to face today without You.” 4. PROTECTION Finally, Jabez asks the Lord to protect him. If we are influencing the world for Jesus, we must understand the enemy will try to stop us. This leads us to pray that God will not only help us if the enemy attacks, but that He will protect us from the enemy attacking us in the first place. Jesus has already won the victory, so we don’t need to fear destruction. God promises to be with us and protect us, and because He is with us, we have nothing to fear. “Keep me from harm” 1 CHRONICLES 4:10 Trust God to protect you. Tell Him specific areas where you feel the need for His protection and ask Him to cover areas that you can’t yet see. PRAYER: “God, as I walk out the purpose You have for my life, I pray that You will stop any and every attack of the enemy against me. Please protect my body, my mind, and my emotions. Don’t let the enemy get a foothold in my life. I pray, too, that You will protect my family and community from harm. I know that the One who is in me is greater than the one who is in the world, so I have nothing to fear. Thank You for watching over me. I love You and I trust You.”

Praying Scripture Prayers

August 14, 2021 • 2 Corinthians 10:4

SCRIPTURE PRAYER No weapon formed against me shall prosper, and every tongue that rises against me in judgement I condemn (Isa. 54:17) I am established in righteousness, and oppression is far from me (Isa. 54:14) The weapons of my warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds (2 Cor. 10:4) I take the shield of faith, and I quench every fiery dart of the enemy (Eph. 6:16). I take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, and use it against the enemy (Eph. 6:17). I am redeemed from the curse of the law. I am redeemed from poverty. I am redeemed from sickness. I am redeemed from spiritual death (Gal. 3:13). I overcome all because greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4). I stand in the evil day having my loins girded about with truth, and I have the breastplate of righteousness. My feet are shod with the gospel of peace. I take the shield of faith. I am covered with the helmet of salvation, and I use the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:14–17). I am delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of Jesus Christ (Col. 1:13). I tread upon serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt me (Luke 10:19). I do not have the spirit of fear but power, love, and a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:7). I am blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Eph. 1:3). I am healed by the stripes of Jesus (Isa. 53:5). My hand is upon the neck of my enemies (Gen. 49:8). You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life (Ps. 23: 5–6). I am anointed to preach, to teach, to heal, and to cast out devils. I receive abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness, and I reign in life through Christ Jesus (Rom. 5:17) I have life and that more abundantly (John 10:10). I walk in the light as He is in the light, and the blood of Jesus cleanses me from all sin (1 John 1:7). I am the righteousness of God in Christ (2 Cor. 5:21). I am the head and not the tail (Deut. 28:13). I shall decree a thing, and it shall be established in my life (Job 22:28). I have favor with God and with man (Luke 2: 52). Wealth and riches are in my house, and God’s righteousness endures in me forever (Ps. 112:3). I will be satisfied with long life, and God will show me His salvation (Ps. 91:16). I dwell in the secret place of the Most High, and I abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Ps. 91:1). No evil will befall me, and no plague shall come near my dwelling (Ps. 91:10). My children are taught of the Lord, and great is their peace (Isa. 54:13). I am strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man (Eph. 3:16). I am rooted and grounded in love (Eph. 3:17). I bless my natural enemies, and I overcome evil with good (Matt. 5:44).

Pray Pleading the Blood of Jesus

August 15, 2021 • Exodus 12:23

PLEADING THE BLOOD Leviticus 8:30 KJV And Moses took of the anointing oil, and of the blood which was upon the altar, and sprinkled it upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon his sons' garments with him; and sanctified Aaron, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him. The blood of Jesus Christ is a counter agent to all that is corrupt and sinful in this world. When there is not a blood covering, sin is free to corrupt and destroy whatever it can come close to. "Lord, I come pleading the blood of Jesus over this day and over my time together with you - asking that you would keep this conversation private from the enemy." "I plead the blood of Jesus because it is our only counter agent. When there is no blood covering, sin is free to corrupt and destroy." "The Bible declares, 'When he sees the blood... the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you." (Ex. 12:23) "So we take comfort in knowing that the enemy cannot cross the bloodline of Christ” "And they overcome him (the enemy) by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, (Rev. 12:11) -The greatest spiritual battlefield is your mind! That is why we have to plead the blood over our minds. -Satan, the blood of Jesus is against you. . . -We need to plead the blood of Jesus so that we have the peace of God in our minds. Colossians 1:20 KJV And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. -The enemy wants to put fear and torment in your mind so that he will be able to control you. There is deliverance through the blood of Jesus Christ! -Guilt, shame, condemnation, and humiliation can be removed by the blood of Jesus Christ. This is why the devil is an accuser. He is constantly attempting to draw you into a dark hole of blackness because of something that is long in the past. -Satan, the blood of Jesus is against you. . . "Lord, I plead the blood of Jesus over this day, over my family, over my church family, over my city, state, and nation. I plead the blood of Jesus over all of the people of this world for whom Jesus died. For “he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2) "Paul wrote, 'I exhort... that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all http://men...for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (I Tim. 2:1, 3-4) "Jesus, you said" 'And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” (John 12:32) Grant it, Lord!" “And Lord, I claim the blood of Jesus as it has already been applied in my life. I continue to trust in your mercy. Hide me under your blood and keep me from all unrighteousness. Forgive me of my sins, my iniquities, my wickedness, my evil desires to sometimes step outside the laws of God." "Search me, 0 God and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Ps. 139:23-24) "Cleanse me from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit that I might perfect holiness in the fear of God." (II Cor. 7:1) "Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin... Create in me a clean heart, 0 God; and renew a right spirit within me." (Ps. 51:2, 10) "Lord, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." (Heb. 12:1-2) Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sin; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, 0 LORD, my strength, and my redeemer." (Ps. 19:13-14) If the blood of Jesus Christ has been applied to your life then you have to trust in the mercy of God. Hide me in the blood. Keep me from unrighteousness. Forgive me of my presumptuous sins. Don’t let wickedness have dominion over me. Never let me step outside of the Laws of God. 2 Corinthians 5:19-21 KJV To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. [20] Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. [21] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. -There is nothing that the devil will be able to say or do that will stand against the righteousness of Jesus Christ. -Satan, the blood of Jesus is against you!

Pray 1 Hour (Prayer Wheel)

PRAYER WHEEL (1 Hour) We often desire to develop a prayer discipline in our life but may struggle with knowing what to pray about longer than ten minutes. Though I do not believe God has time requirements with regard to prayer, I do believe that the more we pray, the more we get to know Him, and the more we change our world as we co-labor with Him. The more we know Him, the more we can pray in His will and He can work through us. If you desire to build your prayer time, here’s a way to help you. I have taken the Prayer Wheel prayer guide and expounded slightly upon it to help bring some ideas to you to expand your prayer time easily into an hour. One hour each day equates to more than six weeks a year. Using this guide of twelve prayer areas of only five minutes each, you can easily reach that hour mark and in the process, change yourself and your world. You can adjust the 5 minutes slots as needed. 1. PRAISE (5 minutes): Psalm 22:3; 63:3; Hebrews 13:15 – Begin your prayer with praise. Praise esteems God for His greatness and virtue, focuses on His nature, and builds our faith as we reflect on His goodness and faithfulness. You don’t have to thank Him for the same things or everything you can think of each day. Rather, consider taking one or two of His attributes and talk with Him about how they have affected your life, or the lives of others. Though we should develop a consistent habit of praise unto God, we don’t want to develop a rote method that becomes more rehearsed than meaningful. Praise is not a method to “sugar-talk” God into listening to us; it’s bringing our mind back to seeing WHO He is, regardless of what’s happening in our life. 2. FORGIVENESS (5 minutes): Matthew 6:14-15 – Nothing blocks your spiritual progress more fatally than an unforgiving spirit. Forgiveness is a complete pouring out and release of any negative feeling that might be held against another person, church, or group. It’s not holding a grudge, or desiring revenge. It’s easy for us to become bitter against someone who has hurt us, but remembers that you have also hurt others, including God. We all need to receive forgiveness, and we all need to give forgiveness. Include both of these areas during this time. In addition, accept God’s forgiveness rather than holding onto your past mistakes. When God forgives, He releases, and we need to release ourselves as well. I’ve often prayed for those who were considered my enemies. As I have done that, I’ve seen those enemies and my situation change. There’s too much effort needed to maintain bitterness and strife. 3. CONFESSION (5 minutes): Psalm 139:23-24 Psalm 66:18 – If you hide sin in your heart God will not hear you. Repent of sin and you will clear the road for God to move. When there is nothing to hide or cause hesitation between you and God, you will be free to approach Him without fear and full of confidence. During this time, repent of things you have done that need addressed, but also ask God to show you anything else that He is not pleased with. Wait on Him and open your heart as He shares any issues with you. When He does, don’t revert to feeling condemned. Scripture tells us that God corrects those He loves. He desires to commune with you, so when He shares issues, realize that it’s His love, not Him condemning you for your faults. 4. PETITION (5 minutes): James 4:2-3; Matthew 6:9-13 – This aspect of prayer deals with our personal needs and desires. God is interested in our personal life. He’s interested in more than if we have a job, or good health. He also cares about our dreams, talents, and struggles. When I pray in this area, I talk to God about my frustrations, my thoughts, and things I’d like to do, even if they don’t seem “spiritual”. We need to remember that even the non-spiritual things of life can become spiritual when we bring God into them. When we make all of our lives spiritual, we’ll begin seeing God more involved. He won’t intrude where He’s not invited. 5. INTERCESSION (5 minutes): I Timothy 2:1-2; Matthew 9:37-38 – Intercession is prayer for others. This includes family, friends, our church, city, nation, and world. As you go through your week, write down issues that you hear about in these areas and pray over them during this time. Keep up with the news so you know what issues are happening in your world. Remember that God is bigger than your personal life. He cares about all nations. We co-labor with God to bring about His divine purposes when we pray, give, or go. Consider praying about missionaries, famines, natural disasters, wars, human trafficking. and so on. Try to feel what God would feel in these issues and pray accordingly. I also ask God what He wants prayed for. Sometimes He shares His heart with me about something that never crossed my mind. 6. READ THE BIBLE (5 minutes): II Timothy 3:16; Psalm 19:9 – Read the Bible during prayer. The Word is enlightening to the eyes, giving us direction, understanding, and revelation. It is the primary way that God speaks to us. Don’t rush through your reading. Read scripture slowly, thinking on what you are reading. When you get to a scripture that makes you pause or think, this may be God speaking to you. Reread it again, and ask God to reveal to you what He wants to share. Read scripture for your personal edification, but also be open to scriptures that you can share with others. God often speaks His Word through people to others who need to hear it. We are to be conduits of His truth, in kindness and grace. My bible is full of things I received from God as I read. I write them down in my bible, if possible, so I when I read that scripture later His Word is brought back to my mind again. 7. MEDITATION (5 minutes): Psalm 1:1-2; 46:10; 77:12 – Take time to “think on these things.” This works well right after reading scripture. Ask God to give you understanding of what you read, and believe that He will. You will not hear if you don’t have faith God will speak. You must be open and willing to listen. We have to hear with our ears, and with our heart. Write down scriptures that God is dealing with you about and keep going back to them in your prayer time. I have a notebook full of things God shares with me. Sometimes during my prayer time, I open that notebook and reread those things. Sometimes they speak to me anew, and other times they bring a wealth of thanksgiving as I see how His words affected my life. 8. THANKSGIVING (5 minutes): Philippians 4:6 – Spend time thanking God aloud for His provision and goodness to you. Even the smallest of things are miraculous when we see them as the goodness of God. Consider thanking Him for something you don’t often thank Him for, such as your talents, His thoughts toward you, music, silence, flowers, etc. Sometimes I simply thank Him for coffee, because I really enjoy it. And when God answers prayer, it would be good to record those answers so we can review them later. Sometimes our life situations can seem hopeless, but when we think about what God has done, our faith builds again. God doesn’t change. He is able to do the impossible. It’s natural for our human mind to easily forget what He has done in the past, so journaling and reviewing those things keep our faith fresh. 9. PRAY THE WORD (5 minutes): Personally apply, out loud, the precepts of the Bible. Praying scripture is praying the Word and will of God. When you don’t know what to pray for in a situation, find a scripture and pray it. God will not go against His Word, and is faithful to do what He said He would do. Pray His promises over your life. When we live in obedience to His Word, His promises are sure for us. When we delight in Him and is His Word, He delights in us and is willing to bless us. I used to read my bible as a strict discipline, trying to hurry through my reading to check off another day. Now I read to simply know Him. It may be just a few scriptures, but even one scripture can bring revelation when you are truly searching to know Him. 10. SINGING (5 minutes): Psalm 100:2; Ephesians 5:19 – Singing refreshes the soul. It lifts our spirits, and causes praise to erupt. It releases emotions and gives us words to express what we are feeling. You can sing to God yourself, or sing along with a recorded song. God doesn’t care how you sound; to Him, your praise is always beautiful. Try singing in the Spirit, or writing your own song. I have several songs I’ve written that are mine and God’s alone. They will never be recorded or shared because they are for Him only. And sometimes, we simply need to listen because He may sing a song back to us. 11. LISTENING (5 minutes): I Kings 19:11-12; Psalm 46:10 – Prayer is not all talking to God. Prayer is also listening. Quiet your mind and silence your words, even if it feels awkward. Remember, you will not hear if you don’t have faith God will speak. And you cannot hear if you are doing all the talking. This is personal instruction time. When God shares things with you, consider writing down what He says in a journal. Review this often. If God speaks, it’s worth rereading again, just like scripture. And not everything God shares with you is for all the world to hear. Sometimes what God speaks to me is personal, and other times He speaks, I feel the need to share it with others. The more you listen, the more you will find Him speaking. 12. PRAISE (5 minutes): Matthew 6:13; Psalm 52:9 – Conclude every prayer with praise. It’s not hard to praise Him again after everything you’ve just experienced. When He reveals more of who He is, we can’t help but simply enjoy Him. We need time in our prayer hour to simply be with Him. To enjoy Him and to see Him in our everyday lives. When we do, we change. He no longer becomes a big God in the sky who might answer if we are good enough… He becomes personal – a loving father who delights in us, and we in Him. Though this is a great guide to help you develop your prayer life, don’t feel you have to follow this every time. Allow God to guide you. Sometimes He will take you on a “field trip” and allow you to experience your prayer time in a different way. But regardless of what method you use, enjoy Him. Get to know Him. The more you see His glory, the more you’ll want to be in His presence. by Colleen Clabaugh