40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 34: Legislation)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 34: Legislation)

 

"Therefore, be careful to observe them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statues, and say, "Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.

"For what great nation is there that has God so near to it, as the LORD our God is to us, for whatever reason we may call upon Him?

"And what great nation is there that has such statues and righteous judgments as are in all this law which I set before you this day?"  ---- Deuteronomy 4:6-8

 

    

 

 

 What makes a nation great? Its military forces or it's growing economy? Great natural resources or an industrious people? All of those certainly contribute to the greatness that nations strive for. But the Bible shows us a different perspective. It's a fascinating national concept found buried in Deuteronomy 4:6-8, which proves the greatness of a nation is directly related to the righteousness of its laws and rules.

     As our nation began, our laws were made in recognition of God. Even though a number of our founding fathers were not active Christians, they all had a respect for the laws of God and literally based the new nation's laws upon what they considered Divine law. God blessed their decision and greatness was achieved.

     Over the years the making and understanding of law has drifted from that strong godly perspective. Increasingly, lawmakers are looking to other nations or cultural trends for guidelines in laws. It could be argued that our greatness as a nation is drifting with that trend. It's time to begin praying for a return to laws that have their basis in God's Word.

 

• Thank God for a good foundation for this nation in the nature of its laws and pray for a return to that solid foundation.
• Pray for the judges of this nation that they would seek God's wisdom.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 33: Scandal)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 33: Scandal)

 

 

"Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them."

--- Ephesians 5:11

 

     Most serious political scandals involve cover-ups. It isn't always the misdeed that's the worst, so much as the lying and manipulation of trying to hide it from the public. Cover-ups always try to keep things in darkness, away from the light, so people can't really see what has happened.

     Followers of Jesus ought to hate cover-ups. We're called to be children of the light, avoiding the deeds of darkness. Darkness doesn't push back light; it's simply the absence of light. It's time to shine, church. It's time for the Light of Christ to be lived out in our neighborhoods, schools and cities. We don't need to rail against the darkness, we just need to shine. The Light of the world lives within us and our nation desperately needs His Light to shine in every dark corner.

 

• Ask the Lord to shine through you today so others will see Him in all that you do.
• Pray for an explosion of Light in the church, transforming to our communities.
• Pray that our leaders, in both government and the church, understand that they are examples and live up to their responsibilities with godly character.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Thank You, Light of the World, for coming to live in me. Shine brightly in me today. Forgive me for hiding Your Light. Forgive me for the times when I preferred the shadows to the brilliance of Your Presence. Shine through Your church in America. Help us to live and to love as You did, so that the darkness in our land will flee and Your Light will shine brightly upon us again. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

POEM (The Joy of Unselfish Giving)

 

 

 

 

The Joy of

Unselfish Giving

 

 

Time is not measured

by the years that you live,

But by the deeds that you do

and the joy that you give--

 

And each day as it comes,

brings a chance to each one,

To love to the fullest,

leaving nothing undone.

 

That would brighten the life

or lighten the load,

Of some weary traveler

lost on Life's Road ---

 

So what does it matter

how long we may live,

If as long as we live

we unselfishly give.

 

---Helen Steiner Rice

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 32: Envy and Selfish Ambition)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 32: Envy and Selfish Ambition)

 

"For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." 

--- James 3:16

 

 

     James speaks with authority and insight as he points out what will happen to a society or group when people begin to envy each other and have ambition that puts self ahead of others. The result is a breakdown of society in which you find disorder and all kinds of evil practices. This can and does happen in local churches, social groups, etc.

     As bad as that is, it becomes even more devastating when it happens at a national level. Ultimately, this is a Spiritual problem and the only solution is Spiritual. America needs Jesus and needs Him badly!

 

• Ask the Lord to reveal if you are holding on to any envy or selfish ambition. If so, repent of it now.
• Pray for the Salvation of those who are in leadership of our nation. Ask the Lord to remove all envy and selfish ambition from them.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 31; Freedom)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 31: Freedom)

 

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."   --- Galatians 5:1

 

     Freedom has a high value in God's Kingdom --- not a freedom to do as you please, but rather a freedom to please God. Freedom is a gift of God and is to be treasured. As you pray for America, pray that the Spirit of Freedom would be rekindled. Paul encouraged the Galatians to "stand firm" against any attempt to take away their freedom. There are certainly many today who fear that our freedom to live lives pleasing to God is being eroded by growing governmental control over many aspects of our lives. Praying for freedom is praying a Kingdom value into our nation.

 

• Pray for vigilance over any erosion of freedom.
• Pray that we will not again be burdened with the yoke of slavery.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Thank You, Lord, that You have set us free from bondage. Thank You for the founders of our nation who built that love and respect for freedom into the core of who we are. Amen.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

POEM (This Is MY Prayer)

 

 

 

This Is My Prayer

 

 

Bless me, Heavenly Father,

forgive my erring ways,

 

Grant me strength to serve Thee,

put purpose in my days...

 

Give me understanding,

enough to make me kind

 

So I may judge all people

with my heart and not my mind...

 

And teach me to be patient

in eveything I do,

 

Content to trust Your Wisdom

and to follow after You...

 

And help me when I falter

and hear me when I pray...

 

And receive me in Thy Kingdom

to dwell with Thee someday.

 

--- Helen Steiner Rice

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 30: Repentance)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 30: Repentance)

 

"Nevertheless, I will bring health and healing to it; I will heal my people and will let them enjoy abundant peace and security."   --- Jeremiah 33:6

 

     There is a real wave of discouragement and despondency sweeping through America these days. For many, it seems as though our nation is on the path of no return. There is a legitimate concern that we have drifted too far from God and that we might never again see a nationwide Spiritual awakening. It certainly is posible for a people to go too far in their rebellion.

     The Lord has many who are crying out to Him. While a global prayer movement is emerging like never before, there is also a growing movement of prayer here in America that is focusing on repentance and turning back to God. (Check out OneCry.com for an encouragingviewpoint.)

     God's Word to Judah many years ago was both bad news and good news. The people were going to suffer for their rebellion against God. But amid those tough times, God made a promise showing that He wasn't done with Judah. He promised health, peace and security to a people who didn't deserve it. But such is His mercy and love --- both then and today!

 

• Make a commitment to pray daily for a Spirit of Repentance to come upon the church in the United States.
• Thank the Lord that His mercy triumphs over judgment.
• Pray for healing, peace and security for this nation.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, we certainly deserve Your judgment. As a nation, we have sinned against You in virtually every way. We have deliberately tried to remove You from the public life. We have squandered wealth, chosen convenience over life, abused the weak, dishonored the poor, and allowed our prejudices and hatreds to divide us. Forgive us! Instead of judgment, pour out Your mercy. We need the healing that only You can provide. Bring again to our nation Your health, Your peace and Your security. In Your Son, Jesus' Merciful Name. Amen.

 

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 29: Truth)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 29: Truth)

 

     Jesus declared in John 8:32, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." A nation must believe truth. The authors of our Declaration of Independence appealed to certain self-evident truths. A love of truth is seen as essential to our rights and liberty. These days, it seems that truth often takes a backseat to partisan bickering and positioning. Those who pray for the nation must learn to love truth and pray for it to come forth in power.

• Pray for thruth to become valued again in American society.
• Pray for truth to be an established standard in our country's news media.

 

 

PRAYER

 

I thank You, Lord, that You are the Truth! You are the Only One able to set men free. Thank You for the freedom we have in You. I thank You that many of our founding fathers understood that freedom ultimately is a gift from You and therefore, is dependent upon Your Truth. Please restore truth to our nation. Lord, expose the lies of the enemy! Bring a fresh love for truth to those who report the news. Give discernment to those who watch, listen or read the news, so that truth might always prevail. In Jesus' name. Amen

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 28: Education)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 28: Education)

 

     Lascivious behaviour, drugs and alcohol have all become strongholds within the American school system. At the same time, we've removed prayer and Scripture from curriculum. Is it any wonder why U.S. students are losing academic ground in comparison to other young people around the world?

     We must ask God to forgive us for pushing him out of our schools. As we ask for His presence to be restored in schools, know that He is able topromote leaders in the education system who fear Him and will fight to return godly principles to the classroom. Let's commit to praying for godly teachers and administrators.

 

• Pray that God would protect our students from the attacks of the enemy.
• pray that educators would teach godly principles.
• Pray that our government officials would be able to make wise decisions with regard to our children.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 27: Purity)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayers to Change America

(Day 27: Purity)

 

 

"Joshua told the people, 'Consecrate yourselves for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.'"   --- Joshua 3:5

 

 

     Who of us would not like to see the Lord do amazing things in our midst? We certainly need that supernatural work of God in our nation today. Israel received that promise; yet it was a conditional promise. God would do miraculous things if His people consecrated themselves.

     Our nation desperately needs a consecrated church, a people set aside for the Lord's purposes. We are the way God has chosen to communicate His Will to nations. But if we are not a consecrated, holy people, the communication becomes garbled and mixed with our unholiness. As you pray today, would you consecrate yourself, so that we might see the Lord do amazing things in our midst?

 

• Repent of a lack of consecration and purpose in your life.
• Pray for a Spirit of Consecration and Holiness to be spread throughout the church in America.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Father, I am so grieved over my lack of consecration. I have believed and loved You, but I've been trying to do Your work in my own strength, and so often for my own purposes. In the Name of Jesus, I consecrate myself unto Your purposes. Here I am, Lord. Use me as You will. And what I pray for myself, I pray for Your church. Lord, help us to be holy. Our nation desperately needs a holy people to speak Your Word in these days. Pour out your Holy Spirit upon us that we might be empowered to be used by You. Lord, we need You to do amazing things in our nation.

 

(Reprinted from Charisma magazine.)

MORAL STORY (How Much Does A Prayer Weigh?)

 

 

 

How Much Does A Prayer Weigh?

 

      Louise Reddin, a poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat in her face, walked into a grocery store. She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries. She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work. They had seven children and they needed food.

     John Longhouse, the grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store. 

     Visualizing the families needs, she plead, "Please sir! I will bring you the money just as soon as I can. Please have compassion on us and allow me to get some food. At least, enough to feed my children. Please!"

     John told her he could not give her credit because she didn't have a charge account with the store.

     Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocer that he would pay for whatever the lady needed for her family.

     John told the woman in a very reluctant voice, "Do you have a list?"

     "Yes, sir. I do." Louise replied.

     "Okay," he said. "Put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs I will give you that amount of groceries."

     Louise hesitated for a moment with her head bowed as if she were praying. Then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled on it. She then placed the piece of paper on the scale carefully, doing this while her head was still bowed.

     The eyes of the grocer and the customer showed amazement when the scale went down and stayed down --- with ONLY the weight of this piece of paper that she quickly scribbled something on. The grocer staring at the scales, turns slowly to the customer and begrudgingly said, "I can't believe this paper weighs so much. She just quickly wrote something on the paper. How is it possible to weigh so much?"

     The customer never said a word. He just smiled as the grocer began putting groceries on the other side of the scale to get them to balance evenly. The scales took a long to time balance. As the grocer would add a grocery item the scales would just barely move, until finally the scale was overflowing and it balanced. The grocer stood in utter disgust and disbelief.

     Finally the grocer grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement. It was not a grocery list. It was instead, a prayer which read, "Dear Lord, You know my needs and I am leaving this in Your hands."

     The grocer gathered the groceries that were on the scale and stood in stunned silence as he held them out to Louise. She thanked him with a grateful smile and left the store.

     The customer handed the grocer a fifty dollar bill and said, "It was worth every penny."

     It was sometime later that the grocer discovered the scales were broken.

 

 

MORAL: ONLY GOD knows how much a prayer weighs. When we place ALL our trust in Him, he will provide abundantly.

 

 

(e-mail submitted by Wendy Tafoya)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 26: Wealth and Prosperity)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 26: Wealth and Prosperity)

 

 

"Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil." --- Proverbs 15:16

 

     Is there  a better picture of the truth of this passage than Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol? Poor Bob Cratchit with son Tiny Tim and his impoverished family are filled with joy and faith, contrasted with wealthy Ebenezer Scrooge's miserable existence. The novel isn't so much against money as it is failing to live a life that uses what we have for others.

     The U.S is in a curious place regarding wealth. We have affluence that is virtually unimaginable. Our ethics regarding the ways we obtain wealth are often highly suspect. Yet, for all our failings in this area, we're a nation known for generosity. When tragedy strikes, the greatness of America's generosity kicks in. We have sent American dollars around the world to help those in need. We even provide tax credits for those who give charitably. Yet we can do better --- not just in giving, but in our attitudes toward wealth.

 

• Repent for any greed or wrong attitudes concerning money.
• Pray for an increased Spirit of Generosity in the church.
• Ask the Lord to pour our Godly fear of the Lord throughout our land.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 25: Godliness)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 25: Godliness)

 

 

"Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the word of his servant? Let him who wa;ks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God." --- Isaiah 50:10

 

 

     The Bible tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning place for wisdom. That just might qualify us for being one of the least wise places ever, We live in a day where even something as basic as the Ten Commandments is being removed from public places. This is simply foolish. Perhaps it is time once again to begin to teach and preach about the law of the Lord

• Come before the Lord, confessing that you are one who fears Him.
• Ask Him for the strength of His Holy Spirit to enable you to obey His Word.
• Pray for a fresh wave of the fear of the Lord to fall upon the church in America.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Father, I come before You with fear and trembling. It is because of Your great mercy and love that I fear You. I know You are always right in Your judgments. Help me to be one who obeys 

Your Word. Enable me through your Spirit to do what I hear. Lord, our nation needs the moral and Spiritual backbone of a people who fear You. May the fear of the Lord fall upon Your people. In Jesus' Name. Amen

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine0 

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 24: Racism)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 24: Racism)

 

 

"There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus."   --- Galatians 3:28 (NIV)

 

 

     In Luke 10, Jesus uses the parable of the Good Samaritian to give us a model of how to treat one another. He has made it clear that we should love our neighbor, without regard for their race.

     Though we've come a long way with race relations in America, there is still work to be done --- as the nationwide race-related protests to the tragic Trayvon Martin shooting earlier this year proved. The church must lead the way in racial reconciliation, setting an example of unity that crosses ethnic and social lines.

 

 

• Pray that God would reveal and remove any area of racism in your heart.
• Pray that there would be unity in the body of Christ among races, so we might be a modal of true reconciliation in Christ.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

MOTIVATIONAL STORY (The Bible and the Coal Basket)

 

 

 

 

 

 

A  modern day parable about reading the Bible:

 

     The story is told of an old man who lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Every morning, grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading from his old worn-out Bible. His grandson who wanted to be just like him tried to imitate him in anyway he could.

     One day the grandson asked, "Papa, I try to read the Bible just like you but I don't understand it and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. So what good does reading the Bible do?"

     The grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and said, "Take this coal basket down to the river and bring back a basket of water."

     The boy did as he was told, even though all the water leaked out before he could get back home.

     The grandfather laughed and said, "You will have to move a little faster next time. Then he sent the boy back to the river with the basket to try again.

     This time the boy ran faster but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was impossible to carry water in a basket and he went to get a bucket instead.

     The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water, I want a basket of water. You can do this. You're just not trying hard enough." He then lead the boy out the door to watch him leave again toward the river.

     At this point, the boy knew it was impossible but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would still leak out before he got very far at all. The boy scooped the water and ran hard but when he reached his grandfather, the basket was again empty.

     Out of breath, he told his grandfather, "See, papa! It's useless!"

     The old man said, "So you think it is useless? Look at the basket."

     The boy looked at the basket and for the first time he realized that the basket looked different. Instead of a dirty old coal basket, it was clean.

     "Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything but when you read it, it will change you from the inside out."

 

 

That is the work of God in out lives... to change us from the inside out and to slowly transform us into the image of His Son.

 

~ One Love ~

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 23: Wisdom)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 23: Wisdom)

 

 

 

"Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her and she will watch over you." 

--- Proverbs 4:6 (NIV)

 

 

     Biblically speaking, wisdom is looking at things from God's perspective and making the right choices based on that perspective. How critical it is for a nation that wants to experience God's protection to love and embrace wisdom. As the United States increasingly accepts a secular mindset and rejects Divine revelation as a basis for our laws, we move further away from the protection offered by wisdom.

• Thank God for the gift of wisdom, and for the ability to see things from His perspective as we turn to His Word.
• Repent on behalf of our nation, because we have turned from making Scripture the basis of law, leaving behind wisdom and looking to ourselves for truth.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Father, we ask You for wisdom this day. We embrace the wisdom from above that allows us to see matters from Your perspective. In Jesus' Name. Amen

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 22: God's Wrath)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 22: God's Wrath)

 

"The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness."  --- Romans 1:18

 

 

     Do you suppose that the above verse, speaking of the wrath of God, is true for every nation except the United States? Is there some way that we are somehow exempt from the wrath of God? We don't like to think about this, but the truth is that there is no exempt nation. Godlessness and wickedness will attract God's wrath of God, both for individuals as well as for a nation. When godlessness and wickedness are embraced by a nation, then the wrath of God will be directed against that nation.

     In the last 50 years, we've seen a serious attempt at surpassing the truth in the U.S. An artificial wall of separation between church and state has been built with the intent of removing God completely from the public square. And this is just one of the ways that truth is suppressed. Because of this, according to the Word of God, the wrath of God is being revealed.

     There are a number of ways we can pray over such situations. First, we ask that God's wrath bring about its purpose of leading people to repentance. Ask that our sufferings not be wasted but be brought to their redemptive purposes. We should also ask that God's truth be restored to public consciousness and acceptance, so that there be no divorce between the Spiritual and secular.

 

• Repent on behalf of our nation because we have allowed the suppression of God's truth.
• Pray that God's wrath on the wicked will bring about repentance.
• Ask the Lord for a boldness in the church to stand for truth in our nation.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Father, I tremble as I read Your Word today. I fear for my nation as I see godlessness and wickedness on the rise and the increased suppression of truth. I pray for mercy in the midst of Your wrath. Pour out a Spirit of Repentance, that the people of America may turn our hearts back to You. In Jesus' Name . Amen.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 21: Israel)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 21: Israel)

 

 

"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; 'May they prosper who love you.'"  --- Psalm 122:6 (ESV)

 

     Throughout Scripture we are told to bless Israel and the Jewish people. Simultaneously Israel has long been at the center of wars and rumors of war. It is disheartening to see the threats of violence and bloodshed that have become a part of everyday life for those living in the city of Christ's return. We must continue to pray for the peace of Jerusalem as the news media highlights war brewing between Israel abd Iran.

 

• Ask the Lord for peace and protection for the inhabitants of Israel.
• Pray that the truth of God's Word would shine brightly in this region.
• Pray that Salvation would be brought to the Jewish people living in this nation and throughout the world.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, please extend your mercy and grace to Israel. We ask You to bless its people and cause them to prosper. Let its leaders turn to You, Jesus, for hope and protection and not trust in man.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 20: Generosity

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 20: Generosity)

 

"And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"

--- Acts 20:35 (NLT)

 

     God never has and never will need our wealth. He owns the cattle on a thousand hills. He is Spirit and needs none of the things we need. Giving to the Lord has never been about His needs, but ours. We need to honor the Lord with our wealth. Giving back to God is about restoring our understanding of God as our provider. It places us firmly under His care and Lordship.

     When the church in a nation tithes to God and recognizes His provision, that nation is blessed. God is honored and we find ourselves in a place where God can begin to trust us with more because we are correctly using what He already has given us. Could much of the our nation's economic turbulence be caused by the failure of God's people to honor Him with their wealth? The average Christian gives 2.7 percent to his or her church! What might happen in our nation as we offer ourselves and our wealth back to the Lord?

• Ask the Lord if you are properly honoring Him with your wealth.
• Pray for a Spirit of generosity to well up within the church in America.
• Pray for God to be honored as we give abundantly and with right attitudes to Him.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Father, I thank You that You are the giver of every good and perfect gift. All that we have comes from Your hand. I am grateful to You. Help me, Lord, to honor You with my wealth and to give back with a joyful Spirit. Please pour out a Spirit of generosity within the lives of Your people so that You might be honored and our nation might be blessed. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

 

 

INSIGHT:  Too many people spend money they don't have, to buy things they don't need or want, to impress the people they don't like. The church of this nation needs to start spending that money on the less fortunate.

 

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 19: Social Justice)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 19: Social Justice)

 

"Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow."    --- Isaiah 1:17

 

 

     The church must emulate Jesus, who always sought out the least and the lowest. If we listen to Isaiah and seek justice, encourage the oppressed, defend the cause of the fatherless and plead the case of the widow, we would be thought of in a much better way in our society. We might not have such nice buildings or such fancy programs but our reputation would surely be better. And our nation would be changed!

     Ask the Lord to show you those who are hurting and need you to reach out to them with the love of Jesus. Pray for a Sprirt of compassion to come over the church in the U.S. so that we will begin seriously to live out the lifestyle of Jesus in our communities.

• Ask Him for the strength of His Holy Spirit to enable you to obey His Word.
• Pray for a fresh wave of fear of the Lord to fall upon the church in America.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, forgive us. We have so often made church about us and our needs and wants. In the process we have ignored those who were hurting right down the street from our buildings. Please help us to see people, really see them, as You do.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

CHECK OUT THE SISTER PAGE (One God One Earth on Facebook)

 

 

 

 

Be sure to check out:

 

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on Facebook!

 



40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 18: Peace)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 18: Peace)

 

"I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."     ---- John 16:33 (NLT)

 

 

     In John 16:33, Jesus speaks of peace and trouble in the same phrase. We will assuredly encounter trouble, whether on an individual basis (illness, finances, etc.) or a national scale (war, economic crisis, etc.). Yet our peace can be found not by avoiding trouble, but in embracing the Prince of Peace. The peace Jesus spoke of is literally a commodity given  to those who follow Him. It is intended to mark His followers. His disciples will be those who have experienced His peace in their own lives and who seek to bring it to the nation in which they live.

 

• Pray that you will be a person who brings the peace of Christ into others' lives.
• Pray that the church in America will live in such a way that the peace of Christ comes into the councils of our nation.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Forgive me, Lord, when I walk in anxiety and stress, failing to allow Your peace to rule in my life. Breathe Your peace into my heart, Help me to bring that peace with me into every situation. Lord, may Your peace so pervade Your church in America that it begins to mark us as a nation. Help us in a miraculous way to experience Your peace amid these troubling times.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

 

 



TIME TO TESTIFY (God's Grace for Good Works)

 

 

 

 

 

God's Grace for Good Works

 

     I can recall a time when I lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico I fell upon hard times. For years, I had worked two full-time jobs but due to my reckless lifestyle I lost both jobs and was basically left with nothing. Fortunately, I was able to collect unemployment from one job but the was was not sufficient to pay all my bills. I was reduced to applying for food stamps.

     Accepting food stamps crushed my pride and really humbled me. But I realized I was actually blessed because my friend, who was on Social Security Supplimental Income, also known as SSI, had two daughters she was raising alone and yet, she only qualified for $75.00 monthly in food stamp benefits wheresas, I, living alone, qualified for $138.00. So instead of feeling ashamed, I greatly thanked God for the abundant blessing.

     For the first 2 1/2 months, I used all my benefits to stock up my cabinets, my freezer and my refrigerator with food., Daily, I thanked the Lord for the food I had to eat. But by the end of the third month, with the kitchen overflowing with food, I still had funds left over which would roll over into the next month. By now, I only used the funds to buy little commodities. i.e. milk, eggs, bread, etc.

     By the 5th month, I had more than enough for myself in my account. I read an article in the newspaper that a food bank was seeking donations due to the rise in families needing help. I had to pray hard on this because when you are accepting food stamps, the funds are only  to be used by whoever's name is on the application, which at this time was only myself. But I felt the need to help so, at this particular time, one of the grocery stores was having a caseload sale. I went to the store and I purchased a few cases of canned vegetables, cereals, soups, flour, noodles, spaghetti sauce, etc. Then I drove to the food bank to deliver the merchandise.

     At the food bank, as they were helping me unload my car, they asked what organization I was with and when I responded, "None. This is just coming from me." They looked at me with amazement.

     After unloading my car, as I drove off, I had this overwhelming sense of joy, happiness, peace and calm all at the same time. I couldn't help but smile and thank God for His grace in allowing me to do such a charitable act.

     By the next month, I was blessed with a very good job that paid very well and had great benefits. I called the welfare office and told them I was now employed and they could discontinue my benefits, in which they closed my case.

     I feel so honored that God called me to do His work. I could have easily hoarded the food benefits. But once I was sufficiently supplied with all the food I used the extra funds to help others who were less fortunate and in a bind such as myself. I truly believe God blessed me with the benefits and after I had enough He placed others in my life so I was able to help them also.

     Having the ability to bless, not just one, many strangers gave me such a wonderful feeling. When you help a friend or even a family member it doesn't give as much joy because it seems more like an obligation. I would have to say that, before taking care of my deaf nephew, it has been my ultimate blissful moment.

     I have Spiritually matured in the knowledge of how God can use me. He has shown me that He abundantly blessed me because He knew my heart. He knew I would not be selfish with the funds and that I would share my blessings to bless others who needed it so badly. And the best thing is ... to this day, He continues to abundantly bless me so that I am able to bless others --- all for HIS honor and glory.

 

 

2 Corinthians 8:2    They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity.    (NLT)

 

~ One Love ~

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 17: Poverty)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 17: Poverty)

 

 

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."    --- Matthew 6:33 (NIV)

 

 

     In a culture that continually strives for more and more, these are radical words. Rather than focusing on our clothes, food or shelter, Jesus said our focus must be on the things of God. With a proper focus on God's Kingdom, we will live in a nation that can care for those who are hurting and still have abundance. This won't happen because the government has mandated, but because we are seeking first that which is eternal and are then content to allow the Lord to provide everything else we need.

 

• Pray for a right focus in America --- back to God and away from material things.
• Pray for the church to be the hands and feet of Christ as we minister to those in need, both spiritually and materially.
• Pray for a Spirit of seeking God first to pervade the church in America

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

 

PRAYER

 

Lord Jesus Christ, in You and through You all things are possible. As Your dedicated servant, I ask that You allow me to do great things in Your Name. There is too much want and strife in this world and I'm insignificant and powerless without You. I am here, with hands open and outstretched arms, hoping that You will enable me to spread Your grace to others. It would be my greatest joy to be able to relieve the pain of others on Your behalf. Please use me to do Your Will. In Jesus' Loving Name, I pray. Amen

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 16: Spiritual Warfare)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 16: Spiritual Warfare)

 

 

"When you go to war in your land against the enemy who oppresses you, then you shall sound an alarm with the trumpets, and you will be remembered before the Lord your God, and you will be saved from your enemies."   --- Numbers 10:9

 

 

     The above Scripture speaks of fighting battles within our own land. And though it was written to Israel, we are certainly in a war in our own land. There is a war in the Spirit realm for the soul of America.

     Trumpet blasts typically called the Lord's people together for battle. But the blowing of trumpets (shofars) was also a call to prayer. Today, I believe the two are merged into one. The trumpet is being blown to fight this battle on our knees.

 

• Thank the Lord for His promise of remembering us and of rescuing us from our enemies.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, awaken Your people to the reality of what the enemy is doing to destroy our foundations. Let us heed the trumpet's call to pray as never beefore, and help us not to wage war in the flesh but in the Spirit.

 

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAY OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 15: Nuclear War)

 

 

40 Prayer to Change America

(Day 15: Nuclear War)

 

"'No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is from Me,' says the Lord."  --- Isaiah 54:17 (NKJV)

 

 

     We live in a day of terrible weaponry. A push of a button from far away can destroy whole cities. No longer is war confined to the combantants, but to entire populations. Years ago, President Ronald Reagan directed our military scientists to develop a shield to protect us, especially from nuclear attack. The "Star Wars" shield certainly could provide some protection, but it couldn't keep us from attacks.

     What if there was something (Someone) who could shield us from all attack? The promise of God to His people is astounding.

     No one would suggest that the Scripture above from Isaiah gives a nation some kind of Divine protection from physical weaponry or attack. On the other hand, men and women of God through the years have stood upon this verse to handle the attacks of satan and have experienced the astonishing protection of God.

     what if the unified church began to pray prayers of Spiritual protection over our nation? Could we as believers, in prayer, blunt the attempt ot the enemy of our souls to sideline our nation and remove us from our place in God's plan?

• Thank the Lord for His promise of protection for the servants of the Lord.
• Ask the Lord to raise up a shield of protectionover our nation.
• In the Name of Jesus, declare a resistance against the enemy's attacks on the godly foundations of the United States.

 

 

PRAYER

 

 

Father, Your promises are always sure. Thank You that You give Your servants privilege of walking in victory and refuting every word spoken against us. Now, Lord, help us in wisdom to do this on behlf of our nation. Lord, awaken Your people out of apathy and help us to stand against the attacks of satan against our nation. May no weapon of the enemy prevail against our nation, but may each of those weapons come to naught against our Shield and Deliverer!

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 14: Politics)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day14: Politics)

 

 

     We often forget that it was the politics of His day that were the immediate cause of Jesus' death. The Roman occupation of Israel, coupled with the jockeying of power among several Jewish sects, created a tension that simply couldn't allow for a popular miracle-working preacher who offended all of the powers that were present. Much of Jesus' teaching dealt with how to live in such a politically tense situation.

     As we look at Hebrews 12:2, we are reminded how hard it was for Jesus as He struggled with the political system of His day. It led to a cross. We can't assume that just because we pray for our nation everything will immediately get better and we'll all live happily ever after. The truth is, though our prayers can and do make a difference, we must still pay a price.

• Fix your eyes on Jesus and thank Him for enduring the cross on our behalf.
• Ask the Lord to show you how to pray for our nation --- especially a political system that seems increasingly ineffective.

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)



40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 13: Same-sex Marriage)

 

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 13: Same-sex Marriage)

 

     Same-sex marriage has been one of the hot-button issues around the country throughout the year and heading into the November election. Six of the 50 states in the U.S. have legalized same-sex marriage and gay-rights advocates continue to push for laws to make it legal nationally.

     Leviticus 18:22 and 20:13, along with other Scriptures (e.g. Deut. 23:17, 1 Cor. 6:9-10), clearly state God's position on the issue, which is not open for interpretation. God defines marriage as being between one man and one woman --- period. It's unfortunate that even those within the church claim otherwise, yet believers must stand firm on biblical standards while also walking in love and compassion for those struggling with same-sex attraction. We must also pray in unity for our nation's leaders not to be intimidated by activists trying to redefine the fundamental building block of our society.

• Pray that Jesus convicts the hearts of those in the homosexual community and helps them escape from that lifestyle --- and that believers will love them into the Kingdom instead of condemning them.
• Pray that advocates of traditional marriage are able to witness effectively to those advocating same-sex marriage with Jesus' love and kind words.
• Pray that the hearts of our country's leaders are convicted and that they come to realize that God's Truth must be our standard, not a minority's agenda.

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, we repent of our wicked ways as a nation when it comes to distorting Your definition of marriage. Cleanse us from our unrighteousness. Help us as believers to walk in Your love, even when our biblical values oppose others. Forgive us for when we have judged the sinner and not the sin, and give us strength to stand up for Your Truth. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 12: Religious Liberties)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 12: Religious Liberties)

 

 

     According to the First Amendment to the United States Constition, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." The Pilgrims escaped from England in the early 1600's for that very reason, but it wasn't until the Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791 that the ideal would come to fruitation. Our founding fathers considered freedom of religion to be a fundamental human right, but it has come under fire in recent years by those who cite the concept of separation of church and state.

• Pray that our freedoms guaranteed in the First Amendment, including that of religion, remain protected.
• Pray that our government officials do not use their power for their own agenda, and that they respect the ideals of our founding fathers.

 

PRAYER

 

Father, we know that You are sovereign and in control of everything. Forgive us for taking the simple things for granted, such as those freedoms guaranteed in our nation's Constitution. Help us to stand up and fight for our freedom while glorifying You every step of the way. In Jesus' Name. Amen

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine) 

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 11: Finances)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 11: Finances)

 

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

--- Matthew 6:21

 

     What are we seeking as a nation? God or gold? We've often been known as a nation interested more in money and things than in God and people. This attitude has infected the church as well as the nation. Undoubtedly, the love of money is a major idol in the U.S. standing in the way of another great move of God in our midst.

• Ask the Lord to reveal clearly to you where your treasure is.
• In Jesus' Name, tear down the idol of Mammon (money) that has taken up residence in America.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magzine)

 

PRAYER

 

Heavenly Father, this world puts so much emphasis on material gain that it's so hard not to get caught up in worldly things. This world teaches us that to be successful we must be wealthy with money and material possessions. Lord, help me to stay away from these things the world teaches. Remind me that worldly riches can disappear in any moment but the riches of Your Kingdom is eternal. It is Your heavenly riches that gives us joy, peace and happiness. Lord, I do not want these worldly riches. Lord, I am willing to give up all my worldly possessions for You. Amen.

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 10: Waiting on God)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 10: Waiting on God)

 

 

"I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I put my hope."

--- Psalm 130:5 (NIV)

 

     Ultimately, a nation that has learned to wait upon the Lord is a nation that has renewed its hope. No longer rushing about in response to the latest poll or whim, there is a dependence upon the Word of God and eternal matters. A sense of the solid and the stable replaces the fleeting fancies of our current status. Hope is removed from being a campaign slogan to being a lifestyle that centers on the Word of God.

• Pray for the church in America to begin to model the stable lifestyle of waiting on the Lord.
• Pray for a movement of the Spirit that creates a dramatic cultural transformation in the United States, bringing about a nation that has learned to put its hope in the Word of God.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, it isn't easy to wait. Forgive me for not waiting on You and for running ahead to do those things that seem good to me. Teach Your church to be a good model of those who don't rush into every trend or fashion but who have learned to wait upon You. Lord, show us how waiting on You isn't an activity, but rather an active life style of drawing near and of keeping our eyes upon You. May You so transform Your church that it flows over into the life of this nation. Slow us down, Lord. Teach us to wait on You, so that Your purposes and plans might be lived out in America. In Jesus' Name. Amen

 

 

(reprinted from Charismna magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 9: Church Unity)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 9: Church Unity)

 

 

"I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgement."    --- 1 Corinthians 1:10 (ESV)

 

      It's been said that combining church denominations is comparable to mixing oil and water; they simply don't mix. God's Will however, is that His people be of one accord, Jesus prayed that we would "be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You" (John 17:21). 1 Peter 3:8 says, "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."  Think of what a mighty weapon a body of people united in Christ would be against the enemy!

• Pray that denominational barriers are torn down and that believers stand as one in the body of Christ.
• Pray that petty differences and the spirit of divisiveness --- both tools of the enemy --- are defeated in the name of Jesus.

 

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, we know it is Your Divine Will that the body of Christ stands in one accord. Protect us from the wiles of the enemy and help us to recognize his evil schemes so that we remain vigilant and stand together to fight against him. Let us be in harmony with each other as we walk in the fruit of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 8: National Security)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 8: National Security)

 

 

'You must not fear them, for the Lord your God Himself fights for you.'

---Deuteronomy 3:22

 

 

     Fear can paralyze a nation, or it can cause its people to react in inappropriate ways. In Deuteronomy 3:22, God gives us a direct command when we face our enemies; "Do not fear them" (NIV). We don't have to give in to fear. God promises to fight on our behalf--- when a nation has committed itself to honor Him and follow His ways.

• Ask the Lord to pour out a Spirit of Repentance on our nation.
• Ask the Lord to help the United States to line up with His purposes so that He will choose to fight on our behalf.

 

PRAYER

 

Father, we turn from fear and turn to You. We indeed have enemies, as a nation, who seek our destruction. We have attempted to stand against them in our own strength, all the while rejecting Your Lordship over us. Forgive us, Lord. heal our land. help us to turn to You, so that You will fight for us.



40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 7: Terrorism)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

(Day 7: Terrorism)

 

You are my hidng place;

You shall perserve me from trouble,

You shall surround me with stories of deliverance.

--- Psalm 32:7

 

 

     Many things can strike fear into the heart of a nation. In the years following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, we have feared off course planes, envelopes with white powder and threats from extremists around the world. We take precautions, all the while fearing that something, sometime, will slip through and cause harm. Fear is tough to live with and causes a nation to rect in man-made ways that aren't always godly.

     The Bible often warns us not to be afraid. The reason given is that God is our salvation. Salvation doesn't always refer to eternal life or heaven. It often means deliverance from the enemy

     Isaiah 12:2 (Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.) reminds us that when a nation (or person) trusts in the Lord, He steps in and brings salvation. When we experience the Lord's deliverance, fear is replaced by songs of joy. Has the Lord become your song?

• Ask the Lord to help America to learn to trust Him for our salvation as a nation.
• Confess (agree with God) that the Lord is indeed the salvation for our nation.
• Pray for a hedge of protection around our nation from the enemy's plans to attack our nation through terrorist attacks --- and the fear these can bring.

PRAYER

 

Lord, I agree with Your Word that You are our salvation. I believe that for my nation. Help us as a nation to cast aside fear abd trust in You. Lord, do a mighty work in the hearts of Your people in the United States that brings about a national shift in priorities and confidence. We trust in You, Lord. Become our strength and our song! In Jesus' Name. Amen.

 

 

(reprinted from Charisma magazine)



 



40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 6: Justice)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

Day 6: Justice

 

     Have you considered the fact that a nation committed to justice for all is a nation that God can bless? God is passionate about justice because it is in accordance with His nature to be just in all His dealings.When nations base their laws and institutions on principles of justice for all, the God of justice is pleased.

     Of course, this means that the contrary is true as well. When injustice creeps in, it brings with it the displeasure of God. God especially seems to look out for the welfare of those whom society overlooks; the poor, the less privileged, the stranger and the outcast. The nation that wants the blessing of God will ensure justice for ALL.

 

• Thank the Lord that He is a God of justice and shows no favoritism.
• Pray for our judicial system and lawmakers, that justice for all, tempered by mercy and compassion, will guide our nation.

 

 

PRAYER

 

I thank You, Lord, that You are perfectly just in all Your ways. You deal with us impartially, imparting justice while showing mercy and compassion. Help us to be like You in this way. Help us as a nation to offer justice to all and no discriminate in the way that justice is administered. I pray for the judicial system of this nation. Restore Godliness to our courts. May a river of righteousness sweep across our nation. In Jesus' All Powerful and Mighty Name. Amen

 

*** reprinted from Charisma magazine

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 5: Family)

 

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

Day 5: Family

 

"Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it."

---Proverbs 22:6 

 

 

 

 

 

     The enemy's attack on the family unit is anything but subtle these days. From legalized abortion to redefining marriage, to high divorce rates, to Internet porn addiction, satan has successfully assaulted the family from all angles with an overt agenda to pull it apart and even negate its value. To combat these attacks, families must put Christ above ALL things and make Him a solid foundation. And no weapon is stronger in this war than prayer.

 

• Pray that parents will adhere to Proverbs 22:6 and train their children in the ways of the Lord.
• Pray that families won't succumb to the worldly ideals coming from Hollywood but instead, stay true to Biblical principles of living.

 

*** reprinted from Charisma Magazine

 

 

PRAYER

 

Almighty God, please guide parents to bring their children to You. Encourage them to have daily and nightly family prayer time. Remind the parents that it is You who blessed them with their children. Give them wisdom so they may know that it is only when You are in their lives and the lives of their children that they will forever be protected and well cared for. In Jesus' All Mighty Name. Amen.

40 DAYS OF PRAYER TO CHANGE AMERICA (Day 4: Abortion)

 

 

40 Days of Prayer to Change America

Day 4: Abortion

 

     "For You formed my inward parts; You covred me in my mother's womb, I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made."         ---Psalm 139:13-14

 

 

 

     Nearly 55 million abortions have been performed in America since its legislation in 1973 following the historic Roe v. Wade decision by the U.S. Supreme Court. Put in perspective, that's 20 million more people than the nation's most populous state, California.

     In fact, it would take almost 450 Hiroshima-like nuclear attacks to kill as many people as have been murdered in the U.S. through abortions since 1973. God's heart is to see the act of abortion completely abolished, so we must pray adamantly that hearts and attitudes are drastically changed on every level, from pregnant women to those in legislation.

• Pray that God convicts the hearts of women who have conceived, that they realize the new human life inside their bodies.
• Pray that the hearts our Supreme Court justices are turned so that Roe v. Wade is overturned and abortion is made illegal.
• Pray that God's love is heard when sharing opinions with those who do not agree.

 

PRAYER

 

Lord, You have conquered death with Your Resurrection. Therefore, in Your Name we come against the forces of hell and to the spirit of abortion that has gripped this country for the past 39 years. We break the spirit of indifference surrounding those who work at clinics that perform abortions. We pray that the women who are faced with this critical decision will seek Your guidance. May Your Spirit of Life reign in their hearts so that they not only see that abortion isn't an alternative, but that You have made each life uniquely precious. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen

 

*** reprinted from Charisma Magazine