October 31, 2011
These past couple of weeks I have been feeling impressed by God to make November a prayer month. So I asked God to give me a direction for each day. I now have 30 "topics or focuses" that God has put on my heart for each day. Some are very specific while others are general topics which, I believe, encompass much. I've put them in a bowl and will draw the topic/focus each day...other than how God has arranged it, there is no particular thought or order to the topic/focus. Tomorrow, Nov. 1st, I will begin with praying for "The Elderly". Please feel free to join me and chime in on the prayer.
November 1, 2011
“The Elderly”
Bless Your name, Oh Holy God. Thank You that You are the Father of Prayer. You hear each cry and petition…every word. Today, Lord, we pray for the Elderly. This wonderful group of men and women whose own prayers are the very reason many of us are walking with You today. Lord, would You please bless these people…would you constantly remind us that their experiences are valuable to the younger generations and honoring them is as important to them today as it was when they were young. I ask, Father, that You would cause the family and friends to visit and spend time with the elderly. Send reminders that they are not forgotten; that they are very much loved; are appreciated. Today, Jesus, I pray will be a day that many will send messages or go visit their elderly loved ones or even someone they don’t know. May that smile be filled with love. May we send the message of belonging to each elderly person that crosses our path today. Grant them health of body, health of spirit, health of mind. Use each one of us to bring Your message of caring, of love, of concern, of belonging. Lord, bless our elderly generation…thank You for their contribution in the history of the current generation. We pray these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 2, 2011
“The Knowledge of God”
"All I know is I find mercy. All my shame You take from me. All I know Your cross has power, and the blood You shed cleanses me".
Thank you, Lord, for Your work on the cross. Let today be the day that Your message of healing, salvation and restoration is heard by the lonely heart, the orphan, the rebellious one, the proud one, the druggie, the lost one, the angry one, the hopeless one. Father, may the knowledge of You and great love be what pierces hearts today. May Your kindness be realized so that repentance is realized. Change lives today, Lord. I ask for the establishment of one-on-one relationships with You and Your people…not a continuation of religion but a dialogue. Father, give Your people a burden for the lost and hungry. Help us to pass out the food from Your storehouse of never-ending love, mercy and grace. Let us each take a hand of someone needing to drink of Your living water and lead them to the River of Life. Open the windows of heaven and let the Waterfall of Your greatness shower those needing to bathe in Your unconditional love. Today, Father, help us to be instruments not only through our words but through our actions…Ambassadors and Messengers of Your kingdom…not an obligation, but an honor and privilege because of Who You are. “Here I am, Lord. Use Me”. In Jesus’ name. Amen
November 3, 2011
“Entertainment & the Arts”
Good morning Lord! Thank You for orchestrating such a beautiful day! Sun rays kissing everything, birds singing Your songs...a new day indeed! Today, Father, I pray for the songs you put in our hearts, for the stories You desire to tell on stage, in movies, in books, through the air or whatever method You choose to use. Lord, would You bless our artists who are commissioned to tell Your story about Your Love and redemption plan. Father, let these arts be messages of change, too. Speak Your words of forgiveness. Speak Your words of love. Speak Your words of understanding. Speak Your words of salvation and reconciliation. Let everything that is You surround and embrace each heart. Use Your artists to convey what is on Your heart. As we watch a movie or video, as we listen to a song, as we read a poem, Jesus, I pray that as they enter each being may they pierce through all that is not of You and clear away any doubt, misunderstanding, forgiveness, guilt, shame, hopelessness, fear, anger, skepticism. Lord, give Your artists material and skill abounding in Truth…to make people laugh, to make people cry, to make people ask questions…to make people want to change…to expose untruths. I pray, Lord, that we take charge to use these gifts wisely…to express solely what is in Your heart. Remind us, Father, that we are instruments fit and ready for the Master’s use…clay for the Potter. Jesus, help us to touch hearts today to massage wounds and hurts. Help us to be sensitive to Your Spirit. Lord, whatever the tool You desire to use to change a life, put it in my hand I pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 4, 2011
“Finances and Employment”
"Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" (Matt. 6:26 NIV)
Thank You, Father, for Your great love for us. It's always a good feeling knowing that You are right there beside us 24/7. Today, Lord, we pray for financial provision. The economic situation today is very disheartening, but we know Father, that in the midst of turmoil You never abandon us but stand alongside us to see us through…You are the ultimate Friend and Provider. Jesus, would You provide Your people with the finances to meet their obligations. Would you provide employment for those needing a job. Would You bless each and every one of those who are struggling to make ends meet with whatever they need to buy their necessities. I pray, Lord, that we would also learn to be wise with what You give us. We ask for finances to pay for our housing, utilities, food, clothing and all things necessary for our well-being. I pray we would use our supply to live within our means, as well as, give to the furtherance of Your work. I pray that we would all remember how much You care for us and Your desire to bless us. Along with receiving Your abundant supply, we also pray for a diligent responsibility in handing that supply. I pray for an overstocking of our pantries so we may feed our families, as well as, those in need. May we never forget the Source of all we have. And, Lord, I pray we release the pride we hold about employment. Let us look for jobs where we might be able to a light in the darkness. No job is insignificant or beyond our qualifications. We are Your bondservants and messengers…so place us where You need us. Father, we receive Your abundant blessings and await for what You have prepared for us. We stand at the door prepared for our next assignment. I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen
November 5, 2011
“Sons & Daughters”
“'Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward." (Psa. 127:3 NASB)
Father, bless our sons & daughters. Despite how old they get, they will always be our children and always be needing of prayer. Remind us, Lord, that these offspring are or will someday be parents themselves and our prayers will have hopefully paved the way for those moments. Help us to be the right examples for them to follow. Protect our children. Raise up men of valor and women of virtue. Give them wisdom. When they begin to explore, Lord, my they discover Your imprint on everything they touch and everywhere they go. May they grasp Your word and hold it close to their hearts. May they call upon You for guidance and learn the essence of accountability for their decisions. May the older folk learn to take time to spiritually nurture and invest in the children. To encourage them, to direct them, to teach them, to allow them to fail sometimes. Keep our children from the evils of this world. When temptations present themselves, I pray that they turn their backs on these things and choose life. While they are still young, Father, I pray for parents to learn to spend time with them, to demonstrate Your goodness and kindness to them, to help them set goals. Each child is different, and I pray they would not be compared to the other…I pray for the individual growth and development into the person YOU desire them to be, and that we, as parents, do not interfere with Your plans for their lives. Please keep us, as parents, from trying to live our lives through these young ones. Even though a plan may be a good one, it may not be YOUR plan so I ask that You would give each child a vision and dream of Your highest for them. May they learn how to love, to give, how to share, support and know commitment. May Your hand rest upon them and let them know how precious they each are to You. Guild them. Direct them. Bless them, I pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 6, 2011
“Marriage”
Thank You, Jesus, for Your sacrifice. Thank You for restoring us. For making us whole again. For bringing everything together so we could have one-on-one relationships with You. Today, God, we bring the core relationship of the family unit before You...marriage...a partnership ordained by You to exemplify Your relationship with Your bride, the church. Would you bless the marriages, Lord. Would You bring spouses closer together. Would You restore that which has been severed. Would You restore trust, belief, faith, confidence, love. Would You cause spouses to look beyond their own personal comforts and preferences to make the necessary changes to preserve their relationships. Would You help us to understand that marriage is not about ME but about US. YOU first, spouse SECOND, then ME. Help us to prefer one another over our own selfish wants. Father, help us to choose for the side of unity. Give the marriages a deeper sense of purpose. Help the marriages flourish and be an example of Your character to the children, as well as, those outside the household. Let us see that we are on the same side…maybe different views and perspectives on things but not divided. To give us a well-rounded view on certain things we sometimes need to see it from a different perspective…being right is not what’s it’s all about. Give us a renewed sense of commitment. As we mature, help us to keep that love alive that first brought us together. Remind us and help us see the best qualities in one another. Help us to embrace wisdom and understanding in our growth. Lead us to a place of grace and mercy with one another. Father, help us keep that love alive and vibrant in one another. May we always be reminded that You set the ground for us as a couple, and it is You that will lead us through it together. You promised to never leave us or forsake us, and we hold on to that promise whenever things get rough. Let us hold on to the Love that is the glue for our relationships. I know, Lord, that You have a greater plan for us and our marriages. May we never forget to pray together, and keep our eyes set on You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 7, 2011
“Health”
"Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven." (James 5:14-15 NIV)
Lord, sickness is rampant. There is cancer, diabetes, arthritis, osteoporosis, stomach problems, mental problems, infections, viruses, and the list goes on. Father, would You touch the people with these medical issues and heal them. Would You cause these people to call the local churches so that the elders can come and anoint them with healing. Oh Lord, cause our church leaders to go to homes, hospitals, care homes and lay hands on and pray for the sick. Cause Your ministers of healing to busy themselves administering healings of the body and soul. We have so many people hurting and suffering with all types of illnesses. Heal the cancer…of the breast, of the liver, of the throat, of the skin, of the pancreas, of the brain, of the stomach, of every limb and organ. Cause the cell count to balance out and the cancer to cease growth and leave the body. Father, go in and change and strengthen the diabetic’s blood. Heal the person with migraines. Give strength to the arthritic person and cause their pain to cease. Heal the digestive and esophageal problems. Heal the circulatory issues. Heal the mental issues. Heal the overweight issues…give these people the strength and determination to make right healthy choices. I pray for a release from pain for those who have been struggling with pain in their body. Father, we touch the hem of Your garment now and receive Your healing. We grasp on to the Source of Power for restoration to our bodies. Whatever the infirmity, Lord, we know You are willing and able to heal it. We embrace Your love for us and desire to be complete in You. Thank You, Lord, that You hear us even before we ask. Thank You that You are ever present and ever patient to hear our prayers and that You delight in answering them. Father, help us not to take our health for granted. For those who do not have a multitude of health issues, I pray they would acknowledge You and thank You for Your healing hand in their lives. May we never forget Your goodness and Your kindness. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 8, 2011
“Government & All in Authority”
”First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.” (1 Tim. 2:1-2 NASB)
Thank You, Father, for our freedom...that while many nations restrict prayer and worship, we have the liberty of choosing You and following You.Today, Lord, we lift up our leaders…the President, all lawmakers in Washington, D.C., our State, local municipalities, Boards, Councils, Committees, CEOs, et al. Would You bless these men and women who are entrusted with making decisions for the welfare of this country. Would You be their Guide, their Source, their Counselor. Would You take these leaders and give them strength to stand up for the truth and for what is in the best interests of their constituents. In weighing the consequences and outcome of their decisions would You help them in aligning those results with Your word. Would You give them wisdom, integrity and understanding in their decision-making. Would You expose improprieties. Would You bring to light that which is hidden. Lord, help them choose the high road and set higher standards for the world to see. Father, we would like to be a nation truly blessed, healed and led by You. Would You also protect them and their families. Keep them from all harm, I pray. In Jesus’ name I ask. Amen.
November 9, 2011
“Health Care Services”
Lord, we are so thankful for the health care services. We are thankful for the training, skill, and ability for these people that are charged with healing and caring for those who are in need of their services. Father, would You bless them. Would You surround them with Your love. I ask You, Lord, to guide the hands and heart of those people who are caring for the sick. Give them hearts of concern, compassion, patience. Would You place the right people in these positions who are truly interested and willing to help heal…that this is not just a job but a mission to love, nurture and care for those who need healing. Would You place people in these positions who know You and can provide words of comfort from You. Give steady hands to the surgeons. Give wisdom to them when deciding the best methods of treatment. Give caring and concerned nurses and aides to watch over those who are recovering and healing. Would You also provide staff that are willing to go beyond their normal duties by sharing with and caring for those who must seek their medical assistance. Would You also bring people to minister healing to those that are in care homes. I ask that You send Your ministers of companionship to those who are in these care facilities to bring hope to those who feel abandoned and neglected. Father, continue to astound doctors with Your miracles. I pray that when these miracles happen, doctors would know without a doubt that it was through Your touch that these miracles happened. I pray that You would send more prayer warriors to those who are sick to pray away and heal all sickness. Increase and heal our unbelief so that we can lay hands on and heal the sick. Also, Lord, would You provide the necessary funds, research and facilities so that we can find cures for various ailments and diseases. Thank You again, Lord, for these individuals who sacrifice so much for our physical well-being. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 10, 2011
“Media”
Father, thank you so much for those who are in communications. Lord, would You bless and cover those who are out there getting Your word out through the media. Would You bless their efforts. Would You instill in the editors and writers Your values and principles so that sensationalism and enticement is not the driving force. Lord, I pray for more exposure on those things that are wrong and being hidden. I pray for righteous men and women to stand up and bring light to the criminal, iniquitous and unethical affairs of those who are operating against that which is right and just. Though sometimes it is difficult to hear what is really going on in the world today, thank You for those who give us the real truth and expose injustices. And, Jesus, would You put it on the hearts of Your people to report on and write about Your miracles and blessings, too. Thank You for those who go out of their way to report what You are doing today. Despite the opposition, would You open the doors so that we can hear, learn and be encouraged by Your hand active and at work today all over the world. We desire to hear about miracles, healings, forgiveness, mercy, grace. Lord, all of us have the capability to report what You are doing…on a daily basis with our neighbors, family and friends. Help us to get out Your good words and works. Help us to be good reporters of Your greatness. Thank You, God, for the freedom to be able to speak about You. Protect and keep safe those who are out there gathering news in danger zones. Lord, we need to hear and read more of You…in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 11, 2011
“Drugs”
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is true worship." (Romans 12:1 NIV)
Thank You, Lord. Today as we extend our gratitude to our veterans for their sacrifice and service, I pray that we can do more show our appreciation for each one's part in gaining and keeping our freedom. May we never forget their journey.
Lord, many today have turned to drugs to erase memories, take away pain, to hide from the truth, to escape reality…and for some, what may have started as a medical remedy has now become a dependency. Father, would You help these individuals. Would You give them strength and determination to turn their backs on drugs and change their lives. Would You send the right people to them to help them turn their lives around. Would You make it clear to them that their actions are not just affecting them, but the harms extends out to family and friends. Would You fill-in the gap and cause those who are using drugs to look to You for resolution and healing. Would You take away the enablers. Would You cause those who are aware of the problem to take action and not just watch as lives get wasted away. In particular, Lord, would You heal the “ice” problem. Would You cause the makers of this terrible drug to be made known and their facilities destroyed. Would You place people in the lives of the addicts that would help them turn their lives around. Would You help them to see that they are Your creation and their bodies a holy temple. Bring healing, restoration and reconciliation to the lives, hearts and minds of these people. Would You make prayer warriors from those who are just watching. Father, help us to be more involved in resolutions and solutions. Help us to take a firm stand. Help us to lean on Your word and arms in bringing support to those who feel hopeless and abandoned. Also, Lord, would You protect the family and friends of these addicts. Sometimes, Lord, we know that Your best for these addicts involves legal confrontations. Please make facilities available and healing to be victorious. We know that You love these individuals more than we ever could, so Lord we ask for whatever Your plan, do it. Thank You for loving us so much. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 12, 2011
“Mothers”
“Grown don't mean nothing to a mother. A child is a child. They get bigger, older, but grown? What's that suppose to mean? In my heart it don't mean a thing." ~ Toni Morrison
Lord, thank You so much for mothers... for the women in our lives who helped nurture and direct our lives... whoever mothered us in our mother's absence. Father, today we pray for the mothers. Would you give the mothers an extra portion of love. Love…despite all the words being spewed at them by an angry child. Give mothers extra strength. Strength…to stand their ground and not be swayed by pouts, stomping feet or superficial pressures. Give them patience. Patience…to wait until a child grasps truth. Give them grace…to allow a child to make mistakes. Give them mercy…to reach out and know when a child needs forgiveness. Give them understanding…to be able to relate and sympathize with their feelings. Give them hope…to believe that this moment “…too, shall pass”. Give them vision…to see beyond the now and help the child plan for the future. Give them all the tools necessary to combat and distractions and enticements of this world that are being thrown at children today. Jesus, remove the blind eye and give mothers the insight to know when it is time to intervene…when to say “no”. Lord, bless the comings and goings as there are many. Help mothers to become more involved in the children’s lives…to be a part of the daily routine. Help these mothers spend some quality time with their children to teach them about Your character and principles. Lord, I also pray that You would remind these women that time spent with You and in Your word is a necessary and essential part of growth for both mother and child. Help the mothers learn rest and peace in You. Help them to release the child into Your care and Your greatest for them…to know when to pick them up or let them pick themselves up. Hover over the mothers and children, I pray…under Your wings is their place with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 13, 2011
“Cancer”
"Do not be afraid of tomorrow; for God is already there." ~Author Unknown
Thank You, Lord, that wherever we may go...there You are. Today, Father, we pray for those who have cancer. We pray against this awful disease. Many of us have lost dear family and friends to this most angering predator. But, Lord, we shall not fear it any further. Instead we speak annihilation to it...God's order of cease and desist. We speak faith and hope to each individual faced with it Lord. You are in the business of healing and miracles. Would You touch those with cancer. Would You place Your balm of healing upon that body, mind and soul. Would You open up the silos of Your storehouse of faith and just let it drown the souls of these individuals. Make hope their modem operandi. Would You do that to each of us. Would You help us all to have the belief and courage to speak to this ailment and be a vehicle to help it disappear. Would You increase our faith. Jesus, we so need Your strength. Our desire is to be able to conquer that which hinders our faith and hope…to heal, to overcome any obstacle. You said, “Greater things than these shall you do” so Father, I pray that more people will begin to exercise that faith and power and start healing the sick, raising the dead, giving sight to the blind, making the lame to walk, and bring hearing to the deaf. May we be instruments for Your purpose. May the life that in running in Your blood be the force of total wellness in our bodies…help us to disburse Your life. This is a family affair, Lord. Help us all to join in the fight against this thing. Help research gain an upper hand to find a cure. Let cancer be without a place to live. I ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 14, 2011
“Relatives”
Interestingly when I prayed about topics, the Lord put this on my heart. So many times we see and hear that our relatives are really going through stuff so this is a time for us to join together to pray for our `ohana (relatives) outside the immediate household.
" 'Ohana means family - no one gets left behind, and no one is ever forgotten." ~ Lilo & Stitch
Lord, we thank You for every member of our family...related by blood or heart that you have placed in our lives...brothers, sisters, aunties, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, out-laws...etc...so many. And because there are so many, there always are issues that we can thank You about or pray for. Today, Father, we bring these family members before You. First and foremost, we ask that You bring into Your fold those who do not serve You as their Lord and Savior. We ask that You make Yourself known to them. Would You show them that Your love is greater than any love that could be experienced through anyone else. Would You bless our families. Would You stand beside them in their circumstances. Would You provide the necessary healing, housing, finances, employment for them. Would You be their Companion and Friend on lonely days, Counselor in hopeless times, Guide in lost circumstances, Healing in painful moments and a Comforting Father in tenuous instances when we need some steadying and focus. Would You bring peace to shaky ground in direction and relationships. Lord, help those who are unsure and doubting. Bring clarity to them. Show them Your ways and solutions. Bring the families into one accord. Lord, every family member needs to know that they have a place to go…may we keep the lights on and our doors open. You are the Light…You are the Door. We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 15, 2011
“Housing and the Homeless”
"One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple." (Psalm 27:4 NIV)
Thank You, Lord, for your provisions in our lives...that Your desire is to be made known and bless Your people. Today, Father, we ask for provision in housing for those who are searching for places to live. Would You open up these places for them. Would You make available those houses that are empty. Would You change the profit atmosphere to one of Samaritan thinking…helping those in need. Would You provide housing for those in desperate need of shelter. Jesus, I also ask that You put on the hearts of man to be a part of the solution to provide housing for the seekers and the homeless. There are many who feel hopeless and distressed because they have no place to go. Would You release places of housing. Would You place it on the hearts of our government officials to dedicate more time in resolving this issue. Would You bring people to open up their homes to take in those needing a place to live. And Lord, would You also instill in the renters a greater sense of responsibility. Would You let them see that being responsible in caring for these homes goes a long way in helping the landlords in trusting their investment to be maintained. Would You also help those struggling to keep up with their mortgages and avoid repossession. Would You provide the finances to help them keep their house. We know times are hard, but staying together and helping one another out in time of need can help resolve some of these issues. Everyone needs a place they can call home and lay their head knowing that tomorrow is still theirs. I ask these things in the precious name of Your Son, Jesus, who died to give us life…and more abundantly. Amen.
November 16, 2011
“Eating Disorders”
“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 NIV)
Thank You for life, Lord. Thank You that we get to enjoy your abundance for us. Thank You that You constantly watch over us. Your love is beyond measure. Today, Father, we lay before You those who are struggling and suffering due to eating disorders. Lord, would You give these people self-esteem, hope, vision. Would You change their hearts to embrace Your love and vision for their lives. Would You reveal Your best for them. Father, place Your mirror before them so they are able to see the reflection of Your image for their lives. Take the world’s view of acceptability and beauty and replace it with Yours. Pierce the hearts of Your children to encourage and help Your creation take proper steps to supporting and giving confidence to those who are unsure, doubting, weak, despondent. Lord, would You also help those who are struggling with weight control…in the danger zone. Many are on the verge of bringing graver problems upon themselves as a result of their weight…it’s not about beauty but life. Would You help these people in controlling their intake and cause them to choose to exercise more. Take away all the diversions that increase their risks of problems. Help us to replace unhealthy foods with healthy ones. Jesus, keep our eyes focused on You…heal us, oh Lord. We so want to be vehicles used by You and for Your purpose. We don’t want anything to hold us back. Put blinders on us so that we don’t get distracted from our goal in You. Help us, Lord. Bring us back to that place where it was not about us and all about You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 17, 2011
“Church”
"I am the Church, you are the Church,
We are the Church together.
All who follow Jesus all around the world,
Yes, we’re the Church together.”
The church is not a building,
The church is not a steeple,
The church is not a resting place,
The church is a people."
(Hymn)
Thank You, Lord, for our freedom to worship You. Thank You for Your people who minister Your kingdom. Father, today we pray for Your people…Your church. Would You bring down the walls and take Your people to the hurting, the lost, the sick. Would You help us to go beyond the fears and boundaries of our phobias to help bring life to those needing to come out of the dark. Would You cause Your people to begin exercising their liberty and gifts to heal the body and soul of the sick. Would You raise up an everyday people and not just a 2-hr/2-day people. Would You change the hearts of man to see that You want all of them and not just bits and pieces of convenient service here and there. “Make my life a prayer to You”. (K. Green song). Help us to walk as a living epistle directing them to You. Bless those You have placed in the service of leadership, instruction and discipleship rightly teaching Your Word. May they be led by Your Spirit and anointing. Anoint Your people and send them into the places needing light. Help them to spread Your Sonshine. Lord, be by our side as we take to the places You have sent us. Would You take our every step and direct us to be vigilant and sensitive to Your leading. Jesus, we so need to be a demonstration of Your character and love for mankind. Help us to be an expression of You. I pray for more open gatherings, feeding of the masses, miraculous healings and deliverances. Make us a people who are hindered by nothing in spreading Your life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 18, 2011
“Peace in Israel”
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you. May peace be within your walls, And prosperity within your palaces. For the sake of my brothers and my friends, I will now say, May peace be within you. For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.” (Psalm 122:6-9 NASB)
Father, we thank You for the nation of Israel…Jerusalem where You have placed Your name. Bring peace to Jerusalem. Bring peace to its people. Bring the Prince of Peace within its walls. Lord, we know that in doing so other nations will share in its prosperity and rest. Bless it Lord. Restore this nation and land. Redeem its people and return them to their First Love. Father, mobilize us and implant in each of us the responsibility of praying for Israel…so much powerful is prayer when nations join together for this nation’s restoration and redemption. Lord, align us with this nation and its people. It is truly and honor and privilege for us to be a part of this great mandate. We seek support for this task. With so many opposing factors and threats, we engage in the spiritual warfare of Your covering over Israel. We join in the honoring of Your covenant with Israel, and we pray for an outpouring of blessings upon this nation. We demonstrate our love for You and Your chosen through our prayers for this nation and rejoice in the security and prosperity of Your Love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 19, 2011
“Fathers”
"Any man can be a father, but it takes a special person to be a dad” (Unknown)
Thank You, Father, that You are the greatest example that we can ever have of true fatherhood. Today, Lord, we pray for the fathers. At a time when so many do not have fathers and role models, You are there to love us and show us what being a father is all about. Jesus, would You place a special anointing on our fathers and be by their side as they make difficult choices in raising their children. Help them to choose You. Would You let love of You and Your word prevail. Would You give the fathers patience, understanding, grace and mercy. Would You cause the fathers to become more involved in and caring about their children’s lives. And, Lord, for those fathers who do not have a relationship with You, would You bring them to come to know You. Would You place Your hand on their shoulders and impart Your heart. Would You bless those who seek to be like You. Also, Lord, thank You for those fathers are no longer here but left their loving mark on their children and who pointed them to You. Lord, help these children to carry that legacy to their children. And, Lord, many children don’t have or know a father figure. Would You fill that place for them. Would You fill the loneliness, bitterness, anger and hurt. Would You send someone who exemplifies Your Love and character to these children. Would You also heal the hearts of those whose memories of fathers are of pain, hurt and abandonment. Would You touch their hearts with Your love and hold them. Would You minister Your Fatherhood of fulfillment in all that they need. Redeem. Renew. Restore. We look to You, Father, as our all in all. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
November 20, 2011
“Single Parents”
Thank You, Lord, for our single parents. For those who are undertaking the responsibility of raising children on their own. Would You bless them as they seek to find the best means of caring for their children. I pray that You would be the center of their lives. Would You help them to rely upon You to direct them...to seek Your will for their children's lives. Would You demonstrate Your love and magnify Your Presence in these households. Would You show the parents how important it is to spend some quality time with their children. Would You reveal Your wisdom to the parent as he/she endeavors to bring about understanding and discipline. Would You provide finances, food, housing and whatever needs necessary to these households. Would You be the constant Companion and Guiding Light. Also, Lord, will Your surround these single parent families with Your family of believers and ambassadors to assist whenever there is a need. I pray for every provision needed to sustain a spiritually healthy household. Fill the places that need filling and cause Your strength to be the nucleus in these families. I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 21, 2011
“Education”
Thank You, Lord, for our educational system. Bless all our learning institutions. Thank You for our teachers who are dedicated to be the best they can be. Would You bless these people who sacrifice so much in imparting education, caring and who are teaching our children some core values of character and survival. Would You weed out teachers who are not positive examples for our children. Would You change the attitude of those who feel that it is just a job and do not understand the great responsibility upon their shoulders…teachers who are more interested in the growth of the child rather than sharing their personal difficulties. Father, we need teachers who understand the importance of not only academic training, but those who are communicating Your character, Your Love, Your principles. Would You also provide these instructors with adequate supplies, materials, and equipment to do their job. Would You make more funds available to them. Would You encourage the parents to assist these teachers and be more involved. Would You also encourage those teachers who feel they are not making a difference by allowing them to see that their students are indeed absorbing the material being taught and are changing their attitudes. Many students have absent or uninvolved parents. Would You be with the teachers as they observe and give their difficult children that extra bit of encouragement and appreciation they so desperately need. Help them change lives. Bring the parents to give more of their time in supporting the schools by donating their skills, finances, and time in doing some cosmetic and practical repairs when needed. Father, we’re all in this together. Help each of us to do our part in taking responsibility by partnering with the schools to assure that our children receive the best training and education possible. Put us on the same page. Help us to look more to You for all we learn and need. In Jesus’ name I ask. Amen.
November 22, 2011
“World Hunger”
"And if you give yourself to the hungry And satisfy the desire of the afflicted, Then your light will rise in darkness And your gloom will become like midday." (Isaiah 58:10)
Today, Father, we address the issue of hunger...locally and globally. Lord, would send out Your workers to fill the storehouses to be able to feed the hungry. Jesus, there are so many in the world today who don't have means of bringing in food and don’t know where their next meal is coming from. Would You make available the resources to feed these people. Would You set Your people into action to begin reaching outside their household to include those who are hungry or don’t have a place to go. Would You join the nations and bring them together to help resolve our famine problem. Would You provide the means, physically and financially, to bring an end to this issue. Help us to be a part of the solution. Help us to take a more active role. Jesus, let us give of our own resources to help resolve this crisis. Teach us how to properly care for one another. Teach us how to share from our abundance. Give us Your heart for those whose pantries are empty. Remove our greediness and replace it with generous hearts and open hands to those in need. Give us a heart of benevolence. Lord, I pray that during the coming holidays that our gifts will be more action and material…taking action to do more for Your kingdom instead of other rituals we have adopted. I pray for the nations to develop a greater and more effective method of supplying the hungry with means of learning to grow food…machinery, seeds, livestock, irrigation…whatever it takes. Help us to make a difference…help us to start in our neighborhoods and towns. Fill the bellies of those who hunger. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 23, 2011
“Business”
"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men" (Col. 3:23 KJV)
Father, today we pray for the businesses...those who provide goods and services. Lord, would You be their Guide as they attempt to do their business with wisdom and integrity. Would You extend Your hand over the proprietors and employees and cause them to be fair and just. Would You provide clients in need of these good and services. Would You bless the businesses that have pending deals…Father, consummate those contracts and bless the transactions. Prosper Your people. Be there with each worker and cause them to work with honesty and integrity as they perform their duties. Reward Your workers for their labor, Lord. Father, provide the materials, equipment and manpower necessary to accomplish their tasks. Increase the revenue. And Lord, may this prosperity not be used just to pad an account but be able to contribute to Your kingdom work. I pray for owners who are honest and care about the end result…whose work ethics are beyond reproach…who deal with clients as unto You. I pray for bosses who are diligent in their responsibilities and don’t invest in prideful actions…who treat their subordinates with care, grace and mercy. I pray for the workers to give their best as unto You…who go above and beyond to assure the quality of their work is of the utmost skill and importance. Lord, would You bring the work, bring the clients, bring the contracts…as we bring ourselves to You. I ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
November 24, 2011
“Alcohol”
Today, Father, there just are not enough words to convey our appreciation and thanks for all You have done. Suffice it to say that You have not withheld Your Best from us...thank you.
Today, Lord, as we feast together may we reflect on all the things we are thankful for...let our feasting be one of making wonderful memories. Let it not be one of over-indulgence. Let us not forget to pray for and fight against those whose lives are taken captive by alcohol. Would You put a stop to the thinking that “good times” and being “drunk” be dependent on one another. Would you make today, this Thanksgiving Day…November 24, 2011…a day of change for them. Would You be with the alcoholics and give them strength to say “no” to alcohol. Father, would You also cause family and friends to be sensitive and supportive to those who need that extra help in staying away from alcohol by not making it available to them. Lord, so many lives are affected by those who indulge excessively in alcohol. Would You protect the children by covering their eyes and ears to the damaging actions and words of the inebriated. Would You keep them safe from harm. Would You be with the family members as they seek to deal with the alcoholic and not just turn their heads. Would You give them the strength not to be an enabler. Father, sometimes consequences are not realized until something bad happens…I pray that would not be the case. Remove the danger and circumstances for harm to occur. Jesus, it is You that we need. Cause the alcoholics to turn to You to fill their need…to feel that longing for love, friendship and belonging…to heal the hurts, pains, failures, betrayals, disappointments. Fill the void as only You can fill. Lord, I also pray that You would make the means available for these individuals to get the help they need. Let today be the grand beginning of a thankfulness that would be etched in their hearts and memories as the day that an alcoholic’s life was redeemed and changed. I ask all this in Your Precious Name, Jesus. Amen.
November 25, 2011
“Violence”
Today, Lord, as we reflect upon yesterday...a national day of thanksgiving and spending time with loved ones, may we always keep in the forefront of our hearts all that You have done and will continue to do for us when we put You first. We are a people blessed to be able to have the freedom to gather with those close to our hearts and enjoy Your abundance.
Father, we now pray against all the violence that seems to be occurring all over the world. We ask You to intercede and stop the senseless killings and destruction by those whose lives are embedded in selfishness, pride, power, control and hate. Innocent lives are being wasted by these evil acts of violence. Would You begin an invasion and encounter of Your people with these lost souls. Would You pierce the heart, soul and conscience of the violent hearts to reveal Your greatness. Would You make opportunities to these hearts for exposure to see who You are and what Your kingdom is all about. Many young lives have been captured by these villains of violence with threats upon their lives or the promise of getting rich or being great. Lord, we ask for the release of Your power over these young ones and make a way to bring to them out of their predicament and into Your safety. Father, You are the Great Protector and Judge. We know that vengeance is Your territory. May those who seek recompense for their hurt to turn to You for resolution. I ask that You cover and protect Your people from harm. Protect us where there is war around us. Send Your people into action with the greatest weapon we possess…PRAYER. Calm the angry hearts. Deflect the harmful arsenal of destructive artillery of evil…material or spiritual. Bring peace and comfort to those whose families have been affected by this evil. Be our shield and defense. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen
November 26, 2011
“Military and Protective Services”
Thank You, Father, for the great freedoms we are privileged to enjoy today. Yet many of these freedoms have come at great cost. Today, Lord, we stand with those who have defended and currently are defending these freedoms. We pray for our military and protective services men and women who daily put their lives on the line for us. Would You place Your covering over them and protect these individuals. Would You keep them safe. Would You keep them out of harm’s way. Would You be their comfort while they are away from home. Would You cause Your people to enter into daily intercession for these men and women. Would You thwart the enemy plans and set Your shield around each soldier, police officer, firefighter, guard, all those who are involved in a local, state and national level of assuring our safety and protection. Give them rest and strength in undertaking their responsibility. Give them wisdom and understanding. Give them favor in their circumstances and dissipate all peril and threats on their lives. Jesus, may we never forget that these individuals don’t get the holidays and time off we get…they must be vigilant at all times…they live their work. While we take vacations these people are protecting us during those times. Lord, I pray You would reward them for all they do and set Your angels guard over their lives, their families and at the portals of unknown territory which they must sometimes enter. Bring our men and women home alive. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 27, 2011
“The Environment”
"Our time on earth and our energy, intelligence, opportunities, relationships, and resources are all gifts from God that he has entrusted to our care and management. We are stewards of whatever God gives us. This concept of stewardship begins with the recognition that God is the owner of everything and everyone on earth. The Bible says, ‘The world and all that is in it belong to the Lord; the earth and all who live on it are His’. We never actually own anything during our brief stay on earth. God just loans the earth to us while we’re here. It was God’s property before you arrived, and God will loan it to someone else after you die”. – Rick Warren
Father, today we pray for the environment…the precious land which You have so graciously have loaned to us for a season. Many have not been kind to it. Many have abused it. Many have not taken their stewardship seriously. If we were the landlords, we would have ousted our tenants long ago. Lord, teach us to care. Teach us to take our responsibility seriously. Teach us to “pay it forward”. I pray that You would put it on the hearts of mankind this temporary loan must be passed on to the next generation as best we can make it for them. Give us a desire to environmentally increase Your investment in us a hundredfold. Help us to replenish that which has been raided. Help us to join together in efforts to bring back the lost beauty of Your creation…colorful flowers, beautiful fields, tall trees, forests, extraordinary fauna…not just in preserved botanical gardens but in our neighborhoods. Help us to create more ways of preserving without harming. Convict and put a stop to those who seem to have no sense of caring and preservation of Your land. Bring the offenders to justice. Help each of us to speak justice and truth to those around us who carelessly disregard the environment. Thank You, God, for Your gift of life in our environment. Thank You for the beauty of the land. Help us, Lord, to exercise more effort in assuring that future generations can enjoy and relish in past generations’ stewardship of Your land. May we be tools of preservation…gardeners in Your land. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 28, 2011
“Widows and Orphans”
“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.” (Psalm 68:5)
Thank you, Lord, for opportunities to be Your instruments of love. Thank You for redeeming us and giving us all that we need. Jesus, would You bless the widows and the fatherless, the orphans. Would You cause their every need to be met. Would You give us more occasions to represent Your kingdom by responding to the needs of the widows and orphans. Would You supply the means and whatever is necessary for these individuals to experience Your abundance. Would You send people to help out the widow in her home. Would You provide people to clean, to cook, to take them shopping, to assist in whatever capacity is needed. Would You bring people to be a friend…someone to talk to, to go with them on rides/walks, to have coffee with. And, Father, would You also bring men and women to be role models and friends to the fatherless. Would You give Your people a burden to assure our orphans have places to go and are fed. Lord, send out Your workers who will take Your Word and Love to the widows and the fatherless. Help us to take on more responsibility in being good examples and helping to fill the great needs in this area. Help us to not get so busy that we overlook the needs of our widows and orphans. Help us in our attempts to foster loving, caring kids who have no one to turn to. Bless those individuals who have already taken on fostering young people. Provide for them. Help them with the means and ability to feed and care for the children. Increase their love. Widen their borders to be able to provide above and beyond for their families. Father, be with us as we go out as Ambassadors of Your kingdom today. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
November 29, 2011
“A Grandparent’s Prayer”
Went to bed last night without drawing a prayer focus for today so drew one this morning: “Grandparent’s Prayer”. While initially praying for topics I had this one on my mind, but then thought it was more my choosing than God’s. Then I felt the Lord saying to me “Annie, they’re my children, too, and believe it or not, I love them more than you do”. So with that I threw in this topic to the prayer focus list.
Father, thank You for generations upon generations of praying grandparents. Many lives have been influenced and changed because of someone’s prayers. Lord, would You add our grandchildren to that list of changed lives. We thank You for those who have prayed for us…countless people. We now desire to maintain that praying tradition and petition You for the coming generation and our grandchildren. Would You help the grandparents to plant seeds in them and teach them about You in such a way that they do not question or see any hypocrisy in us. Help us to give them a desire to know You. Would You help us to let them go and let You be their Source for strength and comfort. Would You also help us to be there when they need us. Would You reveal Yourself in greater measure to them. Would You lead them to a place where they seek an intimate and loving relationship with You. Would You help them find a place where they can fellowship and learn Your Word. Give them a solid foundation in You so they can stand their ground and have a wholesome fear of You…one where they would value the truth and which will bring them joy in knowing they are firmly grounded in You. Would You give our grandchildren wings to soar above their circumstances to make good and right choices. Would You give them vision for their lives to pursue Your best and the plans You have for them. Would You make leaders and followers who would choose You above all else and who would have a clear understanding between right and wrong. Would You bless them with healthy, loving relationships with family and friends. Would You give them favor in their employment. Bless their finances. Would You also instill in them the importance of being good examples to their family and friends. For those grandchildren who are now grown and plagued with addiction issues, Father, would You deliver them. Would You give them strength and show them how to depart from those ways. Would You help them to desire to be godly examples to their offspring, family and friends. Lord, we open the door to You for their lives and close it to our own plans (however good we might think they are) and (sometimes) selfish needs for them. Richly bless them in You. From grandma’s heart to Yours, Jesus, I pray. Amen.
November 30, 2011
“Natural Disasters”
This morning Kerry asked me what the prayer focus was for today, and I responded “Natural Disasters”. He jokingly responded, “Then be sure and pray for me”. Very funny Mr. Crain…I always do.
As I was praying for and meditating on the prayer this scripture came to me: “All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” (Heb. 12:11 NASB)
Father, I thank You for loving us so much that You never cease to call our attention to the necessity to get things right. Today we ponder on those times when natural disasters afflict us and our response to same. Lord, teach us to rightly prepare. Help us learn how to respond. On a worldwide scope 2011 has thus far been a difficult year with so many catastrophes…Japan, Turkey, Haiti and more. Tsunamis, volcano eruptions, drastic weather changes, floods, wild fires, hurricanes, draught, famine and so much more. Lord, Your word says “weep with those who weep”. Soften our hearts Holy Spirit. Teach us to go to action on our knees. Our prayers are needed and necessary. We pray for all the places which have suffered damages from these natural disasters. Comfort and heal the people who have had to endure and continue to suffer from the effects of these calamities…bless them with shelter, food, and clothing. Comfort the families who have lost loved ones. Bring healing to their hearts and lives. Father, we know that the after-effects of such catastrophic events can go on for many years. Would You astound the scientists, meteorologists and statistical people as You carry out the impossible. Would You cause the radiation factors to vanish. Would You clean out the debris and restore the lands and oceans. Send people and assistance to these places to help restore the damage. We pray for grace and mercy upon these lands. And, Jesus, would You cause people wake up, to repent, and turn their hearts back to You. Would You open up the eyes of the blind. Would You cause people to return to their First Love. Make us a responsible people… a caring people… full of Your compassion…overflowing with Your love, Lord. We speak against the one who has come to steal, kill and destroy. Deliver those people who caught up in his scheme. LET GOD ARISE AND HIS ENEMIES BE SCATTERED!!! Let us hold fast to the name of Jesus so that we responsibly maintain our ground and declare as David did “The earth is the LORD'S, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.“ (Psalm 24:1 NASB) Teach us to rise early and go to You for direction. Teach us to make right that which man has wronged. Father, we look to You from whence our help come from. Our petitions come before You, O God, in the precious name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.
As November comes to an end today, I am reminded of some words to the song, Moulin Rouge…”You’re close to me here, but where is your heart”. Something to think about.
