FBCG WBS 30 Days of Prayer

Day 31

2011-01-04T17:23:00.003-06:00

Our final day of 30 Days of Prayer but I hope not your final day to pray! I hope you have been spurred on by the Holy Spirit to journal some of the details of Andrew Murray's book The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer. I hope you have been spurred on to ask Him who you can be praying for. Intercessory prayer isn't for only 30 days, or every once in a while, it is our privilege as believers in Christ to pray for one another and to carry one another's burdens daily. We were not created to do this thing called life all alone but instead with a community of believers.

I sat in on the Jonah study today and Priscilla Shirer, the author, wrapped up the teaching session by reminding us that if we are coming to Bible study to study God's word then that is good but if we don't do anything with it then what good is it? She encouraged us to be the hands and feet of Christ to a dying nation. To be Christ to those who are lost and have no hope. That is a pretty tall order, but one that is commanded of us to go and tell all the nations. May a revival begin in our own hearts and minds, then to our families, to our neighborhood, our workplace or school, and then to the ends of the earth. A revival happened in Ninevah (modern day Mosul, Iraq) because one man allowed God to do a mighty work first in himself and then to a large city. The prophet preached against a city of nearly 122,000 people and within 24 hours the largest revival in history occurred. You can read the story in The Book of Jonah, found in the Old Testament, only four short chapters. In the four chapters we get a glimpse of ourselves as well as our God from heaven above. May we say yes to God as Jonah did, and watch to see what He does with willing hearts and available bodies.

Day 31
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Spirit of Christ in His People

"I am the vine you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me he can do nothing" (John 15:5).

"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you" (John 13:15).

As branches of the Vine, we are to be so like the Vine, so entirely identified with it, that all may see that we have the same nature, and life, and spirit. When we pray for the Spirit, let us not only think of a Spirit of power, but the very disposition and temper of Christ.

Ask for and expect nothing less. Ask it for yourself and ask it for all God's children. This should be the deepest cry of our heart.

How to Pray: Striving in Prayer

"I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me" (Romans 15:30).

"I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally" (Colossians 2:1).

Paul asked his followers to join him in his trials by praying for him. All the powers of evil seek to hinder us in prayer. Prayer is a conflict with opposing forces. It requires the whole heart and all our strength. May God give us grace to strive in prayer for others, and may we all be blessed with many who pray also for us.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

Pray and ask God to bring to your mind those for whom you can pray. Be intentional, commit to action, and strive to lift up your brothers and sisters in prayer, pray that your world and their world will be changed and transformed for Christ.

John 15:5, listed above, is underlined in my Bible. In my mind it is my life verse. I didn't put a date in my Bible when I underlined it but I remember praying it back to God that I wanted to remain in Him so that I could bear fruit, fruit that will last. Once I came to faith I was fully surrendered and longed to be of some use to God. As I look back over the past 10 years of faith and the nearly 2 years I spent trying to figure out if this was really the real deal, I realize how little I have done personally but how God has been so faithful. So faithful to those I have prayed for and served alongside of. I am in awe and humbled that He would allow me to be called His daughter and serve Him in ministry.

"Christ our intercessor is our life. He is our Head and we are His body. His Spirit and life breathe in us. As in heaven so on earth, intercession is God's chosen channel of blessing. Let us learn from Christ what kind of glory there is in this kind of prayer" (page 109-110).

Thank you ladies for joining us on this journey. Today's lecture at the general level was on intercessory prayer. God is up to something and it is good. We shall serve the King together.

Day 30

2011-01-02T17:45:00.005-06:00

This week we start up Bible study again and I am ready! Tomorrow we will spend the time getting ready to open both campuses for Tuesday and get ready for our evening sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. Nearly 375 ladies will converge on the FBCG campuses this week to study God's word and over 100 children will be in tow. The ladies come from all different churches in the Fox Valley area and beyond, they come from various faith traditions, some gals are in their 20's and some are in their 80's, and many in between. Of the ladies coming there will be some who will study the Bible for the very first time and they are very nervous about this new endeavor. Others will join us who have studied the Bible for years, they are seasoned students. We come because something inside of us draws us to this place. We sometimes want to do something else, anything else, but we cannot stay away. That draw is the work of the Holy Spirit. There is nothing in us that wants to draw nearer to God. Our nature tends to move away from God, that is because of sin. But because of His great love for us He draws us to Himself.

Pastor Jeff mentioned this morning that sometimes he arrives at church but doesn't really want to be there. But once the music starts his heart begins to change and he begins to make the shift from not wanting to be there to a place of worship. Bible study works the same way at times. Once the winter sets in, the snow falls and the wind blows we think maybe staying home is a good idea. Rest assured I am right there with you but may we commit to pray for one another that we will press on and go. As we meet for worship at 9:00 a.m. and sing praises to Him, then our heart begins to soften and we begin to be grateful for being in this place where only an hour earlier it may have been the last place we wanted to be. The snow might fly and the winds might howl but we are in His presence and can't imagine being anyplace else.

God is at work in this place and if we don't go we might just miss something. Our presence isn't always for our benefit but if we are willing and have a heart prepared to receive whatever He allows for that time then He may use our situation to benefit someone else. He may choose you, or me, to speak His truth that impacts someone in our groups.

Day 30
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Holy Spirit With the Word of God

"For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and the deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake" (1 Thessalonians 1:5).

"It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told to you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven" (1 Peter 1:12).

The Word of God is circulated without much difficulty in countries where there is freedom of religion. Most sermons are preached based on the Word of God-or should be. Bibles--including various versions--are being read in homes and in private schools. The Word is powerful and will accomplish what God intends in each place, but how important it is to intercede in these places, that the Holy Spirit will attend the Word in power through those who are filled with the Spirit and who read the Word with the eyes of the Spirit's understanding. Pray for Bible circulation in countries where it is restricted or even prohibited, but pray too for the accompaniment of the Holy Spirit in minds and hearts and in preaching and teaching and reading, that its full effect may be felt in every place. Let every mention of the Word of God awaken intercessory prayer.

How to Pray: Watching and Praying

"Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains" (Colossians 4:2-3).

Do you see how everything depends upon God and prayer? As long as He lives and loves and hears and works, as long as there are souls with hearts closed to the Word of God, as long as there is work to be done in carrying the Word to the ends of the earth--praying without ceasing. "Continue in prayer, watching in the same with thanksgiving." These words are for every Christian. No one is exempt.

Your Own Prayer Requests

~Pray earnestly for those who are currently studying God's word to continue, that the devil will not discourage them and keep them away.
~Pray earnestly for that young believer to join the community of believers and draw nearer to God by studying His word.
~Pray for the unbeliever that He will draw her to Himself and her heart beats faster, she cannot stay away. Her heart and mind long to know more and she responds to His invitation.

These cold, dark months ahead are hard for lots of reasons. But in the context of God's Word the cold, dark months ahead are months where we notice numbers begin to drop off. Women miss a few weeks due to illness and begin to feel disconnected to the group and choose other things instead of studying God's Word. Today's devotion encourages us to intercede in places like this, that the Holy Spirit will attend in power through those who are filled with the Spirit, so that God can impact those around us. Those who are taking the big step to come for the first time NEED to see Jesus in you. Those who are hurting NEED to see Jesus with skin on in those small groups. You NEED His Spirit to be in the women around you to encourage you in this journey of faith, that you will be spurred on by the study and stories shared to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. We need one another, pray for one another that we will not grow weary but instead we will be strong and courageous through the months ahead!!

Andrew Murray, the author of our devotions, gives one more day of devotions for us. Join me tomorrow for our wrap up of intercessory prayer. Review your journal and see me this week to pick up a calendar to encourage us to keep on praying for one another!!
May God bless you this day and in the days and months ahead.

Happy New Year! Day 29

2011-01-01T09:29:00.003-06:00

Welcome to 2011! For some reading this, you are glad to say good-bye to 2010 and look forward to a new year with great expectation that it will be better than the last. Others are sorry to see the end of a good year and wait with trepidation to see what this next year will hold. Either way there is uncertainty and excitement at the possibilities. After having read Murray's book, The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, I have such a hunger for prayer, like no other year, I can't wait to see how God is going to grow me in this area. We are wrapping up our final days of 30 Days of Prayer taken from Murray's book. This little nugget has challenged me to seek God. To be honest, I thought I was seeking God in all things, but now I want more. I love Him, but I want to love Him more. I love prayer but I want to make sure I am praying in the power of His Spirit. I want His daughters to seek Him for all their worries, complaints and heartaches so that his daughters might experience the freedom and joy He intended when He sent His son, Jesus, to die for us. Jesus willing gave His life so that we can be reconciled to a holy God and impact the world around us for His glory. Although lives are busier now than ever before and so many demands are made on us as women than ever before, we cannot become complacent when it comes to prayer. For those things important to us we will accomplish them. If your child has a doctors appointment you drop what you are doing and you take the child. You make it a priority. God invites us to join Him, in the power of His Spirit, to intercede for those in our sphere of influence. Can we make the time to join Him? Can we afford not to join Him? Let us not be satisfied with a mediocre prayer life, let us be intentional for 2011 to seek Him in prayer and study what it means to do so. Join voices with the saints as we seek to have His power reign here on earth as it is in heaven.

Day 29

The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Spirit of Intercession

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name" (John 15:16).

"Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete...In that day you will ask in my name" (John 16:24, 26).

If nothing else, our school of intercession has taught us how little we have prayed in the name of Jesus. He promised His disciples that in the day the Holy Spirit came upon them they would ask in His name. Until we know and understand the work of the Spirit in the life of the intercessor, we grieve the lack of power in prayer. First we lack motivation, then we say we have no time, then we seem to sense we are getting nowhere. But if the Holy Spirit dwells in us, intercession will be natural to us. We will learn to live in His fullness, and to yield ourselves to His intercessory work through us. The church and the world need nothing so much as a mighty Spirit of intercession to call down the power of God on earth. Then we will know His presence as never before and see true revival in our midst.

How to Pray: Abiding in Christ

"If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you" (John 15:7).

Our acceptance with God and our access to Him is only possible through Christ. As we consciously abide in Him we have the freedom to ask whatever we wish-because our old nature has been put to death and our requests are in harmony with our new nature, which is in alignment with the will of God. If we remain in this fellowship, our intercession will be effective. We will not have to be concerned about whether we are being heard and whether our requests will be granted. If we are in the will of God, we can be assured of the answer.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Ask that His Spirit will fill you up, that the world will fade away, and your prayers will be spoken in the power of the Spirit, heard by the Father and answered in a way that demands you continue to pray.

If more of us will intercede for our family and friends, for those in our neighborhoods and schools, for missionaries impacting foreign lands for Christ, then this time next year we will look back with great joy at the answered prayers. Those answers will create a longing in us to continue to pray and encourage us to encourage others to pray. I look back and see the answered prayers and sense a hunger in my heart from God to continue to pray with tremendous fervency and encourage others to join me as we seek to impact this world for Christ.

For Ryan's mom (Day 3 & 5), who has confessed her knees are scabby from praying for her son, keep on praying. His birthday is coming up, 1/07, may 2011 be the year God writes a new chapter in his testimony of faith. May Ryan come to a crossroads and choose Jesus as his guide.

Blessings upon each of you in 2011!!

Day 28

2010-12-31T05:00:00.000-06:00

When I was in middle school I loved slumber parties! I used to look forward to joining a group of girls doing what most junior high girls do…giggle, eat, talk and stay up late. But as the night got later, the giggling would settle down and the girls began talking in softer voices as they anticipated what would come next…the telling of stories—ghost stories! Not only would they tell ghost stories, but on at least one occasion they wanted to try to communicate with a spirit of some sort. I have to admit, I was not a fan of ghost stories and the odd notion of communicating with an unknown spirit seemed very creepy to me. Because the room was usually very dark that late at night, I would try to hide my fears and escape by going to sleep quickly or by pulling my sleeping bag over my ears so I couldn’t hear the scary stories being shared (I still vaguely remember the story about the man with the golden arm!).

Thankfully there’s a different kind of spirit called the Holy Spirit (some faith traditions call him the Holy Ghost!) that is not scary at all but rather offers comfort and counsel. In John 4:16 Jesus says, “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever-the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you"

The word “Counselor” used in scripture means “helper” – it’s a legal term but with a broader meaning than “counsel of the defense”. Jesus tells us that the Holy Spirit stands beside us to guide, give counsel and to direct us.

Scripture also teaches that the Holy Spirit is characterized by truth. It is God’s deep desire that through his son, Jesus, and the work of the Holy Spirit, all people would come to know the truth of God.

A live-in Counselor that reminds us of God’s truth? This is great news for me as a parent who desperately desires wisdom and direction in the oh-so-holy task of parenting. This is great news for me as a woman who needs constant reminders and reassurances of where my security and identity lie. And here’s the best part of all—we don’t need to set an appointment or pay a fee to meet with him, to talk with him or to hear from him!

At this time of year when we celebrate Christmas, we celebrate the baby Jesus, Immanuel, “God with us”. The truth is, we can celebrate every day of the year because God continues to be with us through the gift of his Holy Spirit who not only lives with us but who also lives in us.

Day 30

The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: That All God's People May Know the Holy Spirit

"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever-the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you" (John 14:16-17). "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own" (1 Corinthians 6:19).

The Holy Spirit is the power of God for the salvation of men. He only works as He dwells in the church. He is given to enable believers to live as God would have them live, in the full experience and witness of Him who saves completely. Pray that all God's people will come to know the Holy Spirit and His function in their lives. He will reveal Jesus to us and empower us to be His witnesses. We cannot expect to live as effective Christians in prayer or in service without having the fullness of the Holy Spirit in our lives. If you believe in the Trinity, do not neglect the Holy Spirit.

How to Pray: Laboring Fervently in Prayer

"Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured" (Colossians 4:12).

To a healthy person, work is a delight, and that person works hard at what interests him. The believer who is healthy-has a clear conscience, a pure heart, and a desire to serve God-labors fervently in prayer. True intercession is fervent prayer for others: that they might stand perfect and complete in all the will of God; that they may know what God expects of them; how He calls them to live; and that they might be led by and walk in the Holy Spirit. Labor fervently in prayer that all God's children may know this.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

What do you “labor fervently” in prayer for? Consider praying passionately for:

Ø An openness to the work of the Holy Spirit in your life

Ø A desire to listen and respond to the Holy Spirit’s daily call to obedience

Ø A commitment to “wrestle in prayer” for those in your sphere of influence who do not know Jesus and the power of his Holy Spirit.

Lorene Coffey

Director of Women's Ministries

Day 27

2010-12-30T04:32:00.002-06:00

We have been sharing with you Andrew Murray’s thirty days of prayer – a litany of intercessions that he encourages we ought to rotate through on a monthly basis in his classic book, The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer. If the Holy Spirit has not grabbed hold of your heart any other day, may He do so today, for the future of the Church might very well depend on prayers like these (day 27): THAT GOD’S PEOPLE MAY REALIZE THEIR CALLING.

Now, don’t be misled by his choice of words. Murray is not asking us to pray for those called to future ministry… his deep desire is for all of God’s people – each one of us – to realize our calling.

And what is our calling? Hear the desperate perspective of Murray’s heart: “Plead with God that His people may know this: that every believer is to live for the interests of God and His kingdom.”

From DAY TWENTY-SEVEN of The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray:

What to Pray – That God’s People May Realize Their Calling

“I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all the peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:2-3).

“May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among the nations” (Psalm 67:1-2).

Abraham was only blessed that he might be a blessing to all the earth. Israel prays for blessing that God may be known among all nations. Every believer, just as Abraham was, is only blessed that he may carry God’s blessing to the world.

Plead with God that His people may know this: that every believer is to live for the interests of God and His kingdom. If this truth were preached and believed and practiced, what a revolution it would bring to our churches and our mission fields. What a host of willing intercessors we would have. Ask God to reveal this by the Holy Spirit.

Yes and Amen, Andrew Murray! If that truth were preached and believed and practiced, what a revolution it would bring…!

*If the truth that every believer is to live for the interests of God and His kingdom was preached:

We would take hold of the Word of God and let it dwell richly in our hearts. Scripture would root itself deep into our hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit and we would stand tall and strong on the Word – for in Him we move and have our being. We would forgive others – deeply – from our hearts – and not just cognitively, and thus truly receive the depths of God’s forgiveness for ourselves…and realize more how deep and wide and high and long is His love for us – for me!

*If the truth that every believer is to live for the interests of God and His kingdom was believed:

Each of us would be realizing, embracing, and using our God-given gifts – as He intended! The power of God in us! By His Spirit, it has been given, along with opportunities for us to work in it.

*If the truth that every believer is to live for the interests of God and His kingdom was practiced:

We would be living out the Great Commission! In the fullness of the Holy Spirit, we would be obedient, yielding, and surrendered to the will of God.

The ‘great’ big world of the Great Commission – beginning within your own sphere of influence – would see Jesus in you, through you, and because of you!

We would be advancing the Gospel by touching people’s lives unconditionally (our neighbors AND our enemies)…not going on in our own flesh and in our own power, but in understanding the Word of God, in understanding the world around us, and then living – not as hypocrites – but as compassionate, educated, Spirit-filled, and ready responders to our calling: to make God’s name great so “that [His] ways may be known on earth, [His] salvation among the nations” (Psalm 67:2).

And so we pray as one who has accepted for himself what he asks for others…

How to Pray – As One Who Has Accepted for Himself What He Asks for Others

“As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?” (Acts 11:15, 17).

When God has blessed us and met our needs, we are encouraged and emboldened to ask the same for others. Let any thought of your own weakness or shortcomings only make you more urgent in prayer. As His child, you will be heard, many will be helped, and your own faith will be strengthened.

I have a dear friend whom I minister alongside as an intercessor, and she will often say about or to those for whom we pray: “You can’t give what you don’t have.”

We must first live for the interests of God and His kingdom so that our prayers for the witness of others might have more power and be more effective…availing much more than we might ever ask or imagine.

Your Own Prayer Requests…

Your own prayer requests might begin with a prayer for your own soul to be awakened by the Holy Spirit…for God’s grace to sweep into your heart and call you out…

You might take a few minutes now to dedicate your heart to this prayer with this song:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_J9BI6AFO0

Day 26

2010-12-29T17:45:00.004-06:00

Have you ever tried to break a habit? I am told it takes 21 days to create a good habit. Twenty-one days of consistently trying something new to give it time to take hold. If we are not intentional then the good habit will not take hold. On the flip side, to remove a bad habit, it can take 21 days...or more!! The obvious changes would be for the one who wants to quit smoking or the one who wants to lose weight, a change in behavior is a must and often times a change in routine is the first step. Can you relate? When I came to know Jesus as Lord and Savior my life changed. But part of the change required me to change my behavior and the choices I made. I wanted to go to church on Sundays, I wanted to listen to different music, I wanted to parent differently and I wanted to be a wife that was "better than before." The thing is, I was clueless how to do those things. It was actually easier for me to stay doing what came naturally, the old things. By the grace of God, I was placed in a church that encouraged us to be intentional about our faith. A church that taught us to seek God for direction, how to read and to study His word, to be a doer of the word not just a listener. I am so grateful!! I also know of three people who lifted me up in prayer on a continual basis. They each helped in different areas of my life to keep me moving forward and to keep me excited about my faith.

Day 26
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Holy Spirit on Young Converts

"When they arrived, they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, because the Holy Spirit had not yet come upon any of them; they had simply been baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus" (Acts 8:15-16).

"Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come" (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).

Many new converts remain weak; many fall into sin; many backslide entirely. If you pray for the church, its growth in holiness and devotion to God's service, pray especially for the young converts. Many stand alone, surrounded by temptation; many have no teaching on the Spirit in them and the power of God to establish them. Some are without support of family or friends. Some are in countries that are closed to the Gospel, where Satan has a stronghold. When you pray for the power of the Spirit in the church, pray in particular that every young or new convert may know that he may claim and receive the fullness of the Spirit in his life.

How to Pray: Without Ceasing

"As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right" (1 Samuel 12:23).

We are sinning against the Lord if we cease to pray for others. When we begin to see how absolutely indispensable intercession is, just as much our responsibility as loving God or believing in Christ, and how we are called and bound to do it as believers, we will be convinced that to cease our intercession is a serious sin. Let us ask for grace to take our place as priests with joy and give our life to bring down the blessing of heaven on those who depend on our prayers and supplications.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Ask the Spirit to bring into your life a new believer.

I have chatted with many gals who are new in their faith. They are alone in their homes and alone in their families. They are trying to show their children the love of Jesus but they don't really know how to do that. Some have young children and cannot make it to Bible study, some can barely make it to church without an upheaval at home. Some come to church alone just to hear and learn what the Bible has to say. Do you remember that for yourself? I do, but then again I didn't grow up in a church atmosphere so for me I couldn't wait for Sunday! If you grew up in the church this is an area where you may not be able to grasp how lonely it is to be so new in your faith and not know what to do with this new found faith. Where those around you don't want to hear all that you have been learning. For these gals, it is much easier to slide back to the old ways because the new ways are too lonely and too hard! Satan LOVES to attack our new believers. One of his many daggers is doubt or discouragement. I am so grateful that our God is bigger than he (Satan) who is in this world and our God LOVES to protect us from the enemy. God uses us, His children, and asks us to pray for His Babe's in Christ. If you are new in your faith and want me to pray for you, leave a comment and I will be happy to do that...it will be a privilege!!

Day 25

2010-12-28T16:52:00.002-06:00

While on my 2 year journey to faith, I asked SO many questions. I remember being surprised that no one tried to "convince me" of anything. They would answer my questions and then we would move on. It allowed me the freedom to come back and ask more questions. But now looking back I understand why no one tried to convince me of this thing called faith, it wasn't their job to convince me, it is the work of the Holy Spirit to do the convincing!! I hope you read that and feel relieved. If we are selling someone our faith then we need to stop selling and start sharing. We need to answer the questions and be available to do life with them, but the ultimate convincing comes from the work of the Spirit and in God's ultimate and perfect timing we can pray that the unbeliever comes to faith in Christ Jesus. Our part and privilege is to pray for her, or him. Pray that God will create in the heart of every unbeliever we come in contact with a hunger and thirst for truth. Have you ever walked alongside another as they seek Jesus? Oh, it is a glorious journey and sometimes frustrating. Frustrating from the standpoint that you want the person to surrender, to give it all to Christ because that is when real life begins, you know it and you want it for the other person. But it takes time and that wait can at times be frustrating. But don't stop!! Always trust God hears the prayer for more to move from knowing about Him to surrendering to Him.

Day 25
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For More Conversions

"Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them" (Hebrews 7:25).

"We...will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.
"So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith" (Acts 6:4, 7).

Christ's power to save, and save completely, depends on His unceasing intercession. After the apostles withdrew themselves to concentrated prayer, the number of the disciples multiplied rapidly. As we in our day give ourselves to intercession, we will also see more conversions. Let this be our focus. Christ is exalted to grant repentance and salvation. The church exists for the divine purpose of growth in faith and in numbers. Let us not be ashamed to confess our sin and weakness, and then to cry to God for more souls to be saved both in our midst and in countries where His Word is not preached and people cling to false gods and die without hope.

How to Pray: In Deepest Humility

"'Yes, Lord,' she said, 'but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.' Then Jesus answered, 'Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.' And her daughter was healed from that very hour" (Matthew 15:27-28).

You feel unworthy to pray. You question whether you are praying effectively. Even when you feel this way, come before Him and tell Him how you feel. This is true humility. You are not seeking for yourself, but for others. You are trusting His grace and mercy, not your merits or influence. It is the beginning of a great faith, and an answer is forthcoming. The woman reminded the Lord that the dogs are allowed the crumbs that fall from the table. Let that be your plea as you persevere for someone who is outside the circle of faith or outside the hearing of the Gospel. Do not let your unworthiness hinder you from trusting God's faithfulness and mercy toward someone less fortunate that you.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

Pray and ask the Spirit to reveal to you who you can be praying for. Tell God all your concerns about that person and commit to pray for that person. Expect an answer and don't stop praying until you hear the answer.

I was driving, actually waiting, in traffic when I looked to my right and saw a mom and daughter next to me. Both sitting quietly. I was prompted to pray for her. I said, "Okay, but how shall I pray for her?" The only prompting I had was to pray for her salvation. Her nationality was different than mine, as was her attire, so I prayed for her and her daughter to come to know Jesus as Lord and Savior and then that He would use them to impact their family and country. Hey, nothing is too hard for our great God, especially when it is HIS idea to pray. I won't know until heaven how that turns out but it was a privilege to pray for that mom and daughter. If God will ask me to pray for someone in traffic to come to know Him (I hadn't even asked to pray for anyone), how much more will He accomplish when I do ask for Him to reveal to me those in my sphere of influence of whom I can pray for. It is God's heart that His children come to trust Him as Lord and Savior, that we might understand His great love for us. Although it takes time to see an answer to our prayers, we can trust He hears this one and will respond. May those He calls us to pray for be prepared to surrender...pray for softened hearts.

Day 24

2010-12-27T17:33:00.004-06:00

When you go to church, do you go to the same service each week? Do you attend the same campus each week? Do you sit in the same section or the same seat each week? For some, we don't have so many options but if you answered yes to those questions you are part of a large majority. We tend to be creatures of habit when it comes to church. Since the majority are attending the same campus, at the same time slot, and sit in the same section if not the same seat then we are worshiping together each week and yet we know very little about one another or those outside of the circle we shake hands with each week. A few weeks ago the pastor was talking about a guy who told him he wasn't happy in his marriage, that he had not been happy for a long time and wanted out. Two rows in front of me a woman looked to her right, I presume to her husband, she smiled gently and as the sermon continued, tears rolled down her cheeks. She removed her glasses a few times and wiped the tears from her eyes and cheeks. I am not sure what God was doing in her heart, or in her marriage, but I realized that people all around me in church are hurting.

Lorene Coffey, Director of Women's Ministries at FBCG, gave a book to each of the gals on staff. There are five of us and we meet monthly to check-in with one another, pray for one another and see how our various ministries are functioning. This past month Lorene introduced the book, What Women Tell Me by Anita Lustrea. Anita hosts a radio program on 90.1 WMBI and has hosted the show for the past 20 years. Her book is based on her own life and what women are telling her about their own lives. Because our women's ministries touches the lives of nearly 1400 women, maybe more, in a given year, we have commited to reading and discussing the chapters at our next several monthly meetings. For the five of us on staff, we have experienced much, but in order to minister to the women we want to serve, it is best to have an understanding of what she is dealing with. Chapter 1 starts off with being lonely in the church. I just finished a chapter on what it is to be married to a sexual addict, and I am currently reading the chapter on being a single mom raising a son. What I have determined with each page I have turned is that women are hurting and we are hiding things from others for various reasons, but the secrets are becoming so difficult to bear alone. We want to be free but we wonder if church is a safe place to share real life. We are cautious to share because of how some may react. We don't want to be judged and unfortunately, some women have found church to be a place of critical judgment. Our women's ministries team wants to minister to women and we want to do it well and understand what that means. We may not do it well all the time, but we want to do it well more often and I want to learn from my mistakes. I have asked God to teach me but not at anyone else's expense. In other words, I don't want to hurt any woman, or man for that matter, as I seek to have His eyes, His heart and His compassion for others. Oh, I know I will botch something up but I sure hope I learn it from those who know my heart and help me learn the lessons rather than get upset.

Day 24
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Spirit on Your Own Congregation

"He told them, 'This is what is written: The Christ will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance and forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. I am going to send you what my
Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high" (Luke 24:46-49, emphasis added).

Each one of us is connected with some congregation or circle of believers. They are to us the part of Christ's body with which we come into most direct contact. They have a special claim on our intercession. Let it be a settled matter between God and you that you are to labor in prayer on its behalf. Pray for the minister and all lay leaders or workers within it. Pray for the believers according to their needs. Pray for the conversion of unbelievers. Pray for the power of the Spirit to manifest itself in your services and outreaches. Join yourself with others to pray for specific petitions that are brought to your attention. Let intercession be a definite work in your midst, carried on as systematically as the preaching, the worship, and the Sunday school classes. And when you pray, expect answers.

How to Pray: Continually

"I have posted watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest" (Isaiah 62:6).

"And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly" (Luke 18:7-8).

"Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you again and supply what is lacking in your faith" ( 1 Thessalonians 3:10).

"The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help" (1 Timothy 5:5).

When the glory of God, and the love of Christ, and the need of souls are revealed to us, the fire of this unceasing intercession will begin to burn in us. It will not be hard to pray every time these people and these needs come to mind. If we remain in an attitude of prayer, the Holy Spirit will bring to mind needs as they arise. When we awake at night, we will know for whom we should pray. Prayer is ongoing in the life of the intercessor. It really has no beginning and no end. In the power of the Spirit it is not a tiresome thing, but a source of energy and satisfaction.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

Since we are in the final week of our study on intercessory prayer, let's put some action to our prayer time.

~Commit to God time ech day in these final days to pray. Pray that the Spirit will reveal to you what to pray and for whom, as well as how you can pray.
~The next time you go to church, sit in a different area than you normally would and ask God to draw you to someone that you can be praying for.
~Ask for Him to bring someone into your path this week who shares a struggle with you. Tell her you will pray for her this week. Or, be bold and pray with her right there before you leave.

I don't know if I am called to intercessory prayer, but as Tracy typed earlier in the week, it is each of our responsibility and a privilege to pray for others. When I ask Him for whom can I pray, He gives me a name. When I ask how can I pray, I get some inkling, and if I don't I ask that the Spirit will intercede and take to the Father all that she needs. We do not know all that goes on in our congregation but we can trust there are celebrations occuring for answered prayers, there are others longing to see the answers to years of prayers, and then there are those still trying to figure out how to do life in their own strength. When you stand in line at the grocery store this week, pray for the people in front of you and behind you. Ask God to bless them and reveal Himself to her/him in a way that brings her to her knees in repentance.

Day 23

2010-12-26T08:43:00.003-06:00

Prior to having children and before I met Jesus I worked in the banking industry. In 1991, when our son Evan was born, my husband and I decided I would leave my job and stay home to be a mom. At the time I was an assistant vice president and branch manager of a fairly large branch and found great satisfaction in my work. I really enjoyed staying home, but I struggled when someone would ask me, "What do you do?" My response was somewhat hum-drum, "I just stay at home with my son." I don't know when it changed, maybe after our son Adam was born, but I was phoning in an order of some sort and the woman asked me what my occupation was. I responded, "I am the CEO of our home." We chuckled together but she assured me she would list it. I didn't create that term, I had heard it somewhere but I began to believe the work I was doing by staying at home with our children was of great importance. For those who work inside or outside the home, we are ministers everywhere we work and play.

Day 23
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Holy Spirit in Your Own Work

"To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me" (Colossians 1:29). Each of us has our own work to do each day, however secular or ministry-oriented it may be. It is where God has placed us. We are ministers wherever we are. We are witnesses of His grace and mercy. Make your place of work a place of intercession for those around you. Paul labored, striving according to the working of God in him. Remember, God is not only the Creator but also the Sustainer of all. You can do your daily work effectively only in His strength and by His working in you through the Spirit. Be an example of hard work and patient understanding of the trials and difficulties of others. Co-workers will sense that you have a source of strength and energy that they do not. This can be a platform of testimony for you.

Use your spare moments to pray for those who are over you and any who may work for you. Especially remember those who labor in the church, however solitary or unknown they may be.

How to Pray: In God's Very Presence

"Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded" (James 4:8).

The nearness of God gives confidence and power in prayer. He is never far from us, but waits for us to draw near to Him, to confess any sin and to be cleansed afresh. When our hearts are pure before Him we can focus on the needs of others. It is easy to pray in faith when we know God is near and waiting and there is nothing between us and Him. When God first draws us into the school of intercession, it is as much for us as it is for others. It trains us to love and wait and pray and believe. Learn to rely on His presence, to be assured of it. Then bring your work to Him, your co-workers, your successes, and your failures. Intercede for those souls who do not know Him, but who know you and with whom you are in contact every day. Your compassion for them will grow, and God will equip you to minister to them in their times of special need.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~That the work you do, inside our outside of the house, will impact others for the kingdom of God.
~That you will have His eyes to see the needs of others, His heart to care and His ears to hear their concerns.

At times I have heard women say, "I just pray." If God has called you to serve Him, (BTW, he has called each one of us to serve Him), please remove the word "just" from your vocabulary. Used in the context of work or service "just" diminishes the work He has called you to. Wherever we work, pray for those in our sphere of influence. If you are a stay at home mom, your home and neighborhood may be your sphere to influence. As you pray, please remember the single mom doing double and triple duty to accomplish all that needs to be done for her work, her home and her children.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T20:04:00.003-06:00

What a beautiful Christmas day! May you enjoy friends and family today as well as the greatest gift ever given, Jesus!

Happy Birthday, Jesus!

Join us tomorrow for Day 23 of our 30 Days of Prayer.

Day 22

2010-12-24T12:46:00.003-06:00

What a glorious day to celebrate Christmas Eve. We have snow gently falling and resting on the branches of trees while other areas are piling up beautifully on the arms of the evergreens. Squirrels are flitting up and down the trees, hopping over the little snow drifts left behind by wind but the picturesque morning of snow is so vastly different from today's topic.

I have wondered several times why this blog has had nothing to do with Christmas. I sensed from early on that God was counting on us receiving from church, and reading stories of Jesus, that we would receive the beautiful story of Christmas from other sources. This period of prayer seemed to me to build on what God has already been doing and what He will continue to do. Last February, as we prepared to plan for our curriculum for the '10-'11 year the one area that I believe God impressed on my heart was prayer. I can't tell you how it all transpired but as I look back I smile at what all He orchestrated for us to bring Lord, Teach Me to Pray by Pat Entz. Then to have us blog for 30 days on intercessory prayer during Christmas seemed like an odd time to begin, but we have been obedient with many different authors sharing their stories. A few weeks ago the pastor mentioned that the next series being taught will be on....can you guess??? You are correct if you guessed the next series will be on prayer. Wow, God is up to something. Thanks for joining us on this journey as we seek to know Him better, as we long to pray in the power of the Spirit, and see Him move on behalf of those we pray for.

Day 22
The Ministry of Intercessory Pray by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For All Who Are Suffering

"Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering" (Hebrews 13:3. We live in a world of suffering. Jesus sacrificed everything to identify himself with it-with them. Let us seek to do our part in identifying with those who suffer, empathizing with them in their grief and pain-the persecuted believers around the world, the famine-stricken millions in Africa, the poverty and wretchedness of the developing countries, and so much more; what suffering among those who know God as well as those who do not know Him. Then in smaller circles, in many homes and hearts in our own country, in our own neighborhoods, prayer is needed. There are children who suffer abuse, parents who struggle to provide for their families. Many need our help and comfort. Let us seek them out and pray for a heart that weeps with them. It will stir us to pray, to work, to hope, to love more than we do. And in ways and at times we least expect, God will hear our prayers. He is at work even before we ask.

How to Pray: Praying Always, Not Fainting

"Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up" (Luke 18:1). Do you believe prayer is the solution for this sinful world? If you do, you will also see the need for unceasing prayer! The greatness of the task would overwhelm us and cause us to despair were it not for God's promise of the Holy Spirit's assistance. What can our ten minutes of intercession avail? Even ten minutes is better than no prayer, but after ten minutes we will begin to sense the burden of the Spirit and we will find that more time is needed before we even scratch the surface of the need. God is calling and preparing us every day to give our life to prayer. Give yourself to God for the sake of others and you will not regret that you did. God's work is our work. Let us go to Him with expectant hearts, full of faith and boldness. The Enemy of our souls will not have his way if we pray always, led by the Holy Spirit. It is possible to pray always and not to faint! Don't give up!

Your Own Prayer Requests:

Pray and ask the Spirit to speak truth to your heart and reveal how you can pray for those suffering. Murray has specific topics for us, but maybe God has someone in mind for you to pray for. Do you know someone who is suffering? Pray and do not faint. Don't give up!

Day 21

2010-12-23T15:44:00.002-06:00

A friend and I were recently talking through some struggles she was going through in her life. I asked her, "What have you stopped praying for?" Interestingly, as we dug deeper she realized the root of the problem was the very thing she stopped praying about. It was not related directly but all intertwined spiritually.

This reminded me of my journey and how I was and "am" in fact a product of prayer. I was raised in a Jewish home where prayer was more of an afterthought. We prayed fastidiously on the High Holidays. I "prayed" but was not relational with God. I prayed because I was told to, not because it was authentic. It was not manifested in my heart. Thankfully for five years many, many souls were lifting my name up daily to God asking Him to soften my heart, change my thought process, help me "see" Him, and most importantly accept Him as my Lord and Savior. I have often wondered where I would be if any of these individuals had "stopped" praying for me because they did not see the fruit in a timely manner. Five years is a desert land to some. At the time, it was what I needed. I realized that prayer does not have a timeline. It starts and continues but it is never finished. Yes our prayers are answered...but we are not to be stagnant in our expectations of what the Lord can do.

1,825 days of prayer was what my heart needed to be repaired to see the glory of God in a new way. In a lifetime of countless days it doesn't seem like a lot of time. Is there someone, a situation, a problem, a thorn in your life that you have "stopped" praying about? Be mindful that God has the perfect time frame to answer your prayer. Start praying daily again. God is not on the clock.

I am so thankful that those faithful friends did not give up on me. Their prayers were relentless and unwaivered. May we all approach the throne with our prayers that never cease to end.

Day 21
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For God's Spirit on the Jews

"And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son" (Zechariah 12:10).
"Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved" (Romans 10:1).

Pray for the Jews. Their return to the God of their fathers stands connected in a way we cannot understand, with wonderful blessing to the church and with the coming of our Lord Jesus. It is tempting to think that God has foreordained all this and that we cannot hasten it. But in a divine and mysterious way God has connected the fulfillment of His promises with our prayers. His Spirit's intercession in in us is God's forerunner of blessing. Pray for Israel and for work being done among her people. We can also pray, "Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!"

How to Pray: With the Intercession of the Holy Spirit

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express" (Romans 8:26).
Even when you lack knowledge or feel weak and ineffective, the Holy Spirit indwells you and intercedes through you. Yield yourself to His leading. Make a habit of it. He will help your inadequacies in prayer. Plead the promises of God even when you do not see how they are to be fulfilled or where they fit in. God knows the mind of the Spirit; He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God. Pray with the simplicity of a child; pray with the holy awe and reverence of one in whom God's Spirit dwells and prays.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~In your journal write down the names of those people you can pray for. Ask God to soften his or her heart that he or she may come to know Him as Lord and Savior.

Robin Johnson

Day 20

2010-12-23T11:38:00.002-06:00

*Reminder: The intent of Andrew Murray’s thirty days of prayer (from the “Pray Without Ceasing” section of his classic devotional The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer) is to develop a regular habit of praying specifically for others. Intercessory prayer is the praying that we do for others, as distinguished from the praying we do for ourselves. We share Murray’s desire to inspire our sisters and brothers in Christ to pray for others, and hope that by following this portion of our blog, you might 1) obtain a copy of this commonly read classic in order to learn how to pray more effectively for others, and/or 2) develop the discipline of intercession by taking the 30 Days of Prayer devotions and continue to focus daily each month on praying specifically for others.

As you approach today’s focus for prayer, it might cross your mind to think that the verbiage is a bit antiquated. (Please note that this work was originally published in 1897!) In this day 20 of 30 days of prayer, Murray suggests that we pray for God’s Spirit on the heathen. Because we live in a culture of “political-correctness” – a culture that does not want to ever offend any-one (except for those who ascribe to the Absolute Truth, I think!) - we don’t hear the word “heathen” anymore. (Of course, I am writing from my perspective in the middle-class of Mid-America.) Really, I have regularly worshiped in three different evangelical churches (note, evangelical) of three different denominations for over 20 years, and I have not ever heard a single person use the word “heathen” (myself included). It is probably a word rarely used anymore.

As you’ll read in Murray’s excerpt below, he defines heathen as “those who have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ, or if they have heard it, they have rejected it.” In our 21^st century church culture, by his definition, we would call these people unbelievers. [I have known Christians to jokingly refer to their unbelieving friends as their “pagan friends,” and that breaks my heart. To me, it’s as if they are making light of the (eternally) lost state of their friend’s soul…not being fully engaged in the depravity of their state and their need for the Gospel.]

Whether you think of the word heathen or pagan or unbeliever as you consider those who do not have a personal relationship with Christ is not important for today’s prayers. What IS of utmost importance is your concern for the eternal state of their soul. If you ascribe to common modern theologies that say God is just too kind or too merciful or too nice to destroy the heathen, or that there are other ways to get to God besides believing in the Cross of Christ – the death and resurrection of God’s Son, Jesus – then you are aligning yourself with bad theology. (Read your Bible, and see what it says about this for yourself.)

Which lost soul you pray for is not today’s focus, either. Whether you feel led to pray specifically for your unbelieving neighbor or co-worker or family member; or for the souls deep in the jungles or mountains or plains of the world where there is no running water, no electricity, no literacy; or for the parts of the world where governments are hostile and make rejecting God (our God, the God of the Bible) the law (and not rejecting God punishable by law – even death); or…. Praying for the Holy Spirit to reach the hearts of any-one who does not know life in Christ Jesus should be a priority in your prayer life.

When we consider how many souls need Jesus today, it seems like a daunting task to win them over. But winning the soul over is not our duty! It is the work of the Holy Spirit! It is our duty to understand and to preach and to live out the Gospel (this is our great commission!), but it is the Holy Spirit who has the power to win the soul over for Christ! Therefore, I believe that the power of the church to spread the Gospel rests on intercession. Pray for God’s Spirit on the heathen! He will answer!

From DAY TWENTY of The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray:

What to Pray: For God’s Spirit on the Heathen

“See, they will come from afar – some from the north, some from the west, some from the region of Aswan” (Isaiah 49:12).

>“Envoys will come from Egypt; Cush will submit herself to God” (Psalm 68:31).

“The least of you will become a thousand, the smallest a mighty nation. I am the LORD; in its time I will do this swiftly” (Isaiah 60:22).

Typically, the heathen are those who have never heard the gospel of Jesus Christ, or if they have heard it, they have rejected it. Many of these have been born into other religions and practiced them all their lives. We usually think of the heathen as people in foreign countries, but anyone who rejects the Gospel out of hand could be called a heathen. Pray especially for those who are yet without the Word of God. There are many in the Far East who have never heard and some in the darkest recesses of Africa. Christ gave his life for all of these, and we must be willing to give ours. The least we can do is intercede for them in prayer.

If you have not yet begun, begin with the simple monthly school of intercession. The ten minutes you give will soon make you feel it is not enough. God’s Spirit will draw you on. Persevere, however weak you feel. Ask God to give you some country or tribe or people group to pray for. Can anything be nobler than to do as Christ did? Give your life for the heathen.

How to Pray: With Confident Expectation of an Answer

“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you did not know” (Jeremiah 33:3).

“This is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘Once again I will yield to the plea of the house of Israel and do this for them: I will make their people as numerous as sheep’” (Ezekiel 36:37).

Both texts refer to promises made, but this fulfillment depends upon prayer: God must be inquired of to do it.

Pray for the fulfillment of God’s promises to His Son and to His church. Pray for salvation of the heathen – particularly those who have truly never heard the Gospel. Plead God’s promises. Claim what He says He will do in response to our intercessory prayer.

Your own prayer requests…

[To develop your own specific prayer requests as you pray for God’s Holy Spirit on unbelievers, first give thanks to the God of gods for your faith in Christ Jesus. Pray for the people in your churches to truly understand the Gospel and that they would embrace the Great Commission. Pray that your church would realize their responsibility to pray for those who don’t know the One True God of the Bible. Then, pray as Murray suggests, asking God to reveal some unbelieving souls He wants you to pray for, and ask God how to pray for them (what to pray). You might be surprised at whose lost soul burdens your heart. (His is the burden of the Holy Spirit!) If you don’t know with what words to begin your prayers for these souls, you could begin by praying these verses for them:

Acts 16:14…"Father, open their hearts so that they believe the Gospel."

Ezekiel 11:19…"God, take out of their flesh the heart of stone and give them a new heart of flesh."

Deuteronomy 30:6…"Lord, circumcise their hearts so that they love you."

Ezekiel 36:27…"Father, put your Spirit within them and cause them to walk in your statutes."

2 Timothy 2:25-26…"Lord, grant them repentance and a knowledge of the truth that they may escape from the snare of the devil."]

Tracy Barbel

Day 19

2010-12-21T17:34:00.005-06:00

Today's devotion makes me sad. My heart is heavy, and has been for years, for Christians that profess a faith in Jesus, claim Him as Savior but live as though they are dead. Several years ago I attended a Bible study where the author told a story of a death-row inmate that was waiting for his execution date. The inmate began to sweat profusely one day as he saw the guard coming to his cell, the inmate assumed he was coming to tell him the date of his execution. The guard opened the gate and told the inmate that his sentence was no longer death but instead life, he was free to go. The inmate said thanks, but no thanks, he preferred to stay in his cell. The guard reminded him, but you are free. The inmate said, yea, but I'll stay here. If I have told the story in a way that you can understand then you might feel as I do...sad. Christians who have trusted Jesus with his/her eternal position, are not trusting Him for their earthly stay. They continue to stay in bondage, they stay in their cell. Their lives are not changed.

Day 19
The Ministry of Intercessory Pray by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Descent of the Holy Spirit on All Christendom

"Having a form of godliness but denying its power" (2 Timothy 3:5).

"These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead" (Revelation 3:1).

There are millions of so-called nominal Christians-Christians in name only. They say they are Christians, but they deny the power of God. Their lives are dull and without spiritual vitality. Formality, ritual, performance, worldliness, ungodliness, rejection of service for Christ, ignorance, and indifference all describe this group. We pray for the lost, but do we also pray for those bearing Christ's name who are in worse shape than some who do not claim the name of Christ in any form? If we think much about it, we would say it is a severe problem and an issue that needs a great amount of work and prayer.

How to Pray: In Deep Stillness of Soul

"My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him" (Psalm 62:1).

Prayer has its power in God alone. The nearer a man comes to God, the deeper he enters into God's will. The more he takes hold of God, the more power he has in prayer. God must reveal Himself. We as mere men must take time to receive this revelation. If it pleases Him to make himself known, He can make the heart and mind very conscious of His presence. Our posture must be that of reverence, of quiet waiting and adoration. As you intercede for all those for whom Christianity is a social pastime, be still before God and know His mind and heart. You will receive the power and understanding that is needed to pray with passion for these who are as lost as the pagan.

Your Own Prayer Request:

~With your journal in hand, be still and quiet before the Lord. The friend or family member that is on your heart and in your mind needs your prayers, write the name in your journal with today's date. Pray that hearts will be softened to God's love for her/him. Ask to understand His heart and His mind for this person and pray with passion for his/her faith in Christ to come alive.

"If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:36

Michelle Klisares

Day 18

2010-12-20T20:09:00.005-06:00

My son, Evan, and I left very early this morning for a trip to the hospital. He had an injury from playing high school football that needed to be taken care of and the surgeon scheduled him for this morning. Doctors diagnosed his injury in 2008 as a torn labrum and told him if he didn't have it repaired his quality of life would be diminished due to the possibility of arthritis and the chance of the shoulder continuing to dislocate. Oddly enough, yesterday, a full day before the surgery I had butterflies in my stomach on his behalf. I haven't had too many surgery's but I have had at least one to know that anesthesia can mess up your head and stomach. Anyway, today I had tremendous peace as he was wheeled away. I wondered what the difference was from one day to the next. Well, I set my alarm this morning to make sure I had my time with the Father in order to be in the right place before this day got started. I asked that the Lord would give me peace as I put my son on a hospital bed and watch him get wheeled away for his first surgery. Throughout the morning I can't tell you how much at ease I was, it was amazing. I read a book, made some phone calls and sent a few texts. My friends were praying for me too and I knew God was hearing them and answering on my behalf. "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:7 Evan came out of surgery feeling pretty rough but he kept looking for an opportunity for God to grow him into a stronger person because of this challenge. We got home and he said it was weird, he felt the joy of the Lord. He said with such conviction that with all that happened today he should not be feeling joy. I'd say God guarded is heart and mind (and shoulder) in Christ Jesus.

Day 18
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For Peace

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:1-4).

"He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth'" (Psalm 46:9-10).

The military armaments in which the nations find their pride is an awesome thought! What is worse are the possibilities of what the evil passions of men might at any moment bring about! It is a prospect of suffering and desolation even upon the innocent and the young. But God can, in answer to the prayers of His people, give divine peace. Let us pray for it and for the rule of righteousness on which alone peace can be established.

How to Pray: With Understanding

"So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind [my understanding]; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind [my understanding]" (1 Corinthians 14:15).

We need to pray from our spirit as the vehicle of the intercession of God's Spirit if we are to take hold of God in faith and power. And we need to pray with understanding if we are to truly enter deeply into the needs we bring before Him. Take time to grasp intelligently each subject, its nature and extent, the urgency of the request, the grounds for the certainty of God's promise as understanding and with the mind of the Spirit.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Pray and ask the Spirit how you might pray based on this devotion. Sit quietly before the Lord and wait. Wait to hear His whisper.

If God can be so present in my life to give me a peace that transcends all understanding, He can be so very present with the leaders of our nation. Continue to read and pray 2 Chronicles 7:14. He can heal our land. He can cause wars to cease. God can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us (Ephesians 3:20). Can we join together and ask Him to help? He will hear our prayers and we can trust Him to respond.

Day 17

2010-12-19T16:01:00.004-06:00

Years ago we lived in Indiana and our family lived here in Illinois. The kids and I went on the adventure from Fort Wayne, IN to Normal, IL about once every other month, or so. On one particular trip the kids had fallen asleep while we drove home on Route 24. I knew if I stopped they would wake up....so I kept driving. Well, after a few cups of coffee and several bottles of water, I was ready to be home. On those back roads you don't see too many cars-or police-except for this one particular day. When I saw flashing lights behind me I cringed, the drive was about to get longer. As soon as the car stopped both boys woke up asking "are we home?" No, we weren't. The officer that came to the car door seemed like he was brand new, maybe his first day on the job. He asked if there was an emergency of sorts that would cause me to be driving too fast. I explained that the kids and I were just ready to be home. I think he was asking if someone was injured or dying, not that I'd had too many fluids and wanted to be home! Anyway, he took my license and registration and the wait began. The kids were still in car seats at the time and they had so many questions about the flashing lights, the officer's uniform, guns etc. When he came back to us, he had stickers for the boys and a warning for me to drive safely for the remainder of the trip. I don't think I had the heart to tell the boys that police officers don't usually give out stickers but today was, well it was unique!

Day 17
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For Those in Authority

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

What faith in the power of prayer! At the time this text was written it was a few weak and despised Christians that were expected to influence the mighty Roman emperors and help in securing peace and quietness. But their faith in prayer was what made the difference. It wasn't their own strength or power or influence but that of the Holy Spirit. And so must we pray for our country, our president, his cabinet, our governors, and all those who rule in the affairs of men, that they might rule with integrity and in the fear of God. When God's people unite, they can count upon their prayers affecting all that is done, seen and unseen. Let us pray in obedience to God's Word and be thankful for our freedoms and privileges.

How to Pray: As a Sweet-Smelling Offering to God

"Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, went up before God from the angel's hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake" (Revelation 8:3-5).

Not only is prayer a sweet-smelling offering to God, it is powerful and effective on the earth. God works through the prayers of His people. The prayers that reach heaven have their share in the history of this earth. We need to take our prayer time as seriously as God takes it. Intercession is not a ritual or a pastime. It is the power of God among men. Be assured that your prayers enter God's presence and are used for His glory.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~2 Chronicles 7:14
~Grab your journal and jot down the suggestions made regarding who to pray for. Those in authority over our country need our prayers, ask God to help you to remember to pray.

I once saw a sign in a front yard with the chapter and verse listed above. I knew it was a Bible verse but thought it odd to see it on a sign in a front yard. As I drove through the neighborhood I saw several more. If you ever wonder what you can pray to see results, pray Scripture. Pray back to God His own word with the fervency of need and believe that He will answer. Read 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Day 16

2010-12-18T17:56:00.004-06:00

I wish I could give each of you reading this blog a copy of this book. It might make a GREAT Christmas gift if anyone is looking for a little something for you. The name of the book is The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray. Although we are only working the devotions here, great insight into prayer is captured in the book. Murray challenges us to intercede for others, however, at times we don't know what to pray or how. Read what Scripture has to say:

Romans 8:26-27 In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God.

Murray has given us suggestions on what to pray for and how. I am amazed at the number of suggestions he makes that I have never really considered as areas to pray for, today is one example.

What To Pray: For the Power of the Holy Spirit in our Sunday Schools

"But this is what the Lord says: 'Yes, captives will be taken from warriors and plunder retrieved from the fierce; I will contend with those who contend with you, and your children I will save'" (Isaiah 49:25)

Every part of the work of God's church is His work. Prayer is the confession that He will work in answer to our prayers. One of the often neglected ministries in our church is the Sunday school. This is not a place to leave your children merely so that you can attend worship service. Sunday school should be a place of learning, a place of prayer, a place of instruction in the things of God. Often there is a shortage of volunteers to teach and help in this ministry. We must come to understand how vital it is and how desperately important to the forming of the future leaders of our churches. Pray for teachers, qualified teachers, those who are enthused about the Word of God and awed at the preciousness of children. Pray for the children, that they will be encouraged to attend, desire to learn, and that they will retain what they have learned. Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit on our Sunday schools so that our children may be nurtured and instructed while their minds and hearts are receptive. Pray for the salvation of the children.

How To Pray: Boldly

"'Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need" (Hebrews 4:4, 16).

We can approach the throne with confidence because we know that God delights to hear our prayers. Because of Jesus' sacrifice, we are accepted in Him. We are heard. Let us pray for our children with all boldness and confidence that God desires to bless them and use them. Let us persevere, realizing the value and importance of our subject. The more we pray the more we will lean how to pray, and to believe, and to expect an answer with increasing hope and confidence. Hold fast your assurance; it is at God's command you come before Him as an intercessor. Intercede for the Sunday schools and for the children who attend them.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Pray for an outpouring of the Spirit onto those who He calls to work in the Sunday school classes.
~Ask God if He is calling you to serve in the Sunday school classes.
~For those He calls He will equip, pray the workers will trust in God's ability and merely their own availability.

Our church's children's ministry program needs around 450 workers in order to serve our children on Saturday night and Sunday morning worship services. That is amazing!! We do not want a warm body teaching our children and caring for our children, we want those who are enthusiastic about God's Word and His babes.

WBS uses 20 workers, some teachers are in that mix and others who come to rock babies or assist teachers. When I think of the children of WBS, it is imperative to me that the women who come to care for our kids first love Jesus, and because of that great love, they can care for the littlest ones who mean a tremendous amount to Jesus. Please pray for those who are lovin' on our precious ones and consider your role to benefit the kingdom.

Day 15

2010-12-17T21:55:00.007-06:00

Is it better to send a Christian child to public school or to a Christian school? Is it better for our Christian teens to attend a state college or a Christian college? Not to worry, I will not be answering that question for you. I believe that question stirs up great emotion on both sides and each family must determine what God is calling them to do, what is best for the child and the family. I will tell you our oldest son went to public high school for two years and then spent two years at a Christian high school. After graduation, he settled on a Christian college in Nashville, TN. Our younger son has spent three years in public high school and come next year we will determine if any changes are necessary. One thing I can tell you, without a doubt, no matter where our kids go to school, faith based or public, the teachers and workers in those buildings need our prayers. As Tracy said in a previous blog, it is our responsibility to intercede for others, especially those who influence our children. It is our privilege to place the men and women who have an influence on our next generation at the feet of Jesus. He is the Only One who can truly impact lives for the kingdom. And it is a blessing to see our next generation thriving with joy and great expectation of what their futures look like. If you do not have children, please know you are not exempt from praying for our next generation, they will become the future leaders of this country.

Day 15
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, Andrew Murray
What to Pray: For the Schools and Colleges

"'As for me, this is my covenant with them,' says the Lord, 'My Spirit, who is on you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children, or from the mouths of their descendants from this time on and forever,' says the Lord" (Isaiah 59:21).

The future of the church, the nation, and the world depends-to an extent we scarcely conceive of-on the education of our youth. The church may be seeking to evangelize the lost, while it is giving up on its own children to secular and materialistic influences. Pray for your schools and colleges. Pray for the faculty, those who most influence the young in these halls of learning. The church has an awesome responsibility to lay a foundation for these young people before they are sent away to hear every form of half-truth and false teaching, every doctrine and philosophy of man. May the church also realize its responsibility to pray and support these young people, guiding them to God's truth, and enabling them to make wise choices. Pray too for godly teachers, even in the secular schools.

How to Pray: Not Limiting God
"How often they rebelled against Him in the desert and grieved him in the wasteland! Again and again they put God to the test; they vexed the Holy One of Israel. They did not remember his power-the day he redeemed them from the oppressor" (Psalm 78:40-42).
"And he did not do many miracles there because of the lack of faith" (Matthew 13:58).
"Is anything too hard for the Lord?" (Genesis 18:14).
"Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you."
"I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?" (Jeremiah 32:17, 27)

Above everything, beware of limiting God-not only by unbelief but also by imagining that you know what He can do. Expect the unexpected-more than you could ask or think. Each time you intercede, be quiet first-listen and worship. Think of all He can do, of all He delights to do for His children, of your place in Christ, your identity with Him.

You Own Prayer Requests:

Now that we are halfway through our 30 days of prayer, I want to encourage you to do as Murray says here; first, be quiet-listen and worship. Ask Him for a song that you can sing back to Him to speak of your awe and wonder of who He is. Sit, listen for the words to come to your mind and sing them back to Him, praising Him for His goodness.

First, be quiet. Sit in silence, if your mind begins to wander bring it back by saying, "Jesus, I love you." "Thank you that You are the lover of my soul and I worship you."

Continue being quiet and then ask the Spirit how and for whom can you pray. Then, listen. If you have children pray for their teachers. Pray for the teachers' willingness to know Him. Continue to be quiet and continue to ask the Spirit how to pray. If you do not have children pray for teachers and workers in your local school district.

Have your journal handy to jot down your thoughts and for whom you prayed and how you prayed that day.

Continue to be still before the Lord and know that He is God and is able to do immeasurably more than we can imagine.

Expect the unexpected!

Day 14

2010-12-16T22:35:00.005-06:00

I feel the need to confess that being a mom of teens, volunteering with youth, and just being "too busy" most of the time, praying for the future church doesn't often hit my radar, and being raised in the church, I have heard the phrase with your "whole" heart many times, but was not sure how to define that. Now that I have your attention aren't you all excited to continue reading? Please do though because God showed up and He spoke to me, and I want to share with you!

I have the privilege, joy and sometimes sadness of serving in our high school TREK ministry. Last week our teaching topic was the Gift of God's Peace. One of the leaders asked the students in our community group "what wall stands between you and God's peace?" Then he told them to write that down on an index card so the adult leaders could be praying for them. The answers we received were heart-wrenching. As I have been praying for these students and the deep issues they are dealing with, God revealed to me how I am actually praying for the Church of the Future, and I am to continue praying for them and any other child/young person God allows to cross my path with my WHOLE heart; all of my being, just as I pray and sometimes agonize over my own children. Children and young adults need God-fearing adults to be their prayer warriors; our future and theirs depend on it!

So I asked God this week to give me a fresh perspective on interceding for future generations with my whole heart, and He did in a way that I can understand and relate to. This may be TMI, but God often speaks to me while I am in the shower, and earlier this week He brought Hannah to my mind—kind of random I thought. I went to 1 Samuel and read about Hannah in chapters one and two. What a woman of faith, devoted mother and pray-er she was!! Hannah began as a desperate woman. She was childless and wanted nothing more than to be a mom. She prayed with her WHOLE HEART; with every part of her being, constantly and persistently! It's the mother's heart that helps me to understand what praying with my whole heart can look like, because when I am praying for one of my children about a matter; it engulfs me. I pray without ceasing. I know that my whole heart is in it.

As I am reading about Hannah and Samuel, God reminds me of another mom in Exodus. Her name is Jochebed (Moses' mother). She is resourceful, focused and a fearless woman of faith and prayer. God saw the hearts of these women, heard their prayers and intervened on their behalves. Their fame lives on through the lives of the remarkable children they had so diligently and whole heartedly prayed for. The bigger result is having prayed on behalf of these children for the great tasks God gave to each of them.

Now I realize not all of us reading this have our own children. However, we can still intercede for children and young people that God puts in and around our lives. So many don't have anyone praying for them. I challenge you to ask God over break and into the new year to show you or bring into your life the young ones He wants you to stand in the gap for. The influence of prayers on generations to come is far reaching. We can't see the big picture; but we may be praying for the next Samuel or Moses. Let's choose to be women who pray with our whole hearts for the present and future impact of generations in God's church!!

Day 14
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Church of the Future

"We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. He decreed statutes for Jacob and established the law in Israel, which he commanded our forefathers to teach their children, so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep his commands" (Psalm 78:4-7). "For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants" (Isaiah 44:3).
We must pray for the generations who will follow us. Unless the Word of God, the knowledge of the character of God, and the message of the Gospel are taught to our children and our children's children, what will come of the generations that follow? We can pray with relative ease for our own children, but we must think too of the young children in our churches, our schools, our neighborhoods, and pray for them and all their teachers and instructors and leaders at work among them; that whatever they do, Christ may be honored and the Holy Spirit gain entrance into their lives. The future of the church and the nation depend on it.

How to Pray: With the Whole Heart

"May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord grant all your request" (Psalm 20:4-5). "You have granted him the desire of his heart and have not withheld the request of his lips" (Psalm 21:2). "I call with all my heart; answer me, O Lord, and I will obey your decrees" (Psalm 119:145).
Prayer for future generations is crucial, and God desires to answer our supplications. He lives to hear and grant every petition with regard to souls and their eternal destiny. Each time we pray, the whole infinite God is there to hear us. He asks, as well, that in each prayer we pray, the whole person will be there too; that we will cry unto Him with our whole heart. Christ gave himself to God for us, and so He takes very seriously our call to Him for help. If once we seek God with our whole heart, we will see the difference between this and perfunctory ritualistic prayers. The whole heart will be in every prayer which we come to God. Pray with your whole heart for those who will follow us.

Sometimes we don't know what to pray. A great place to go to is God's word. Here is some Scripture to pray for others: Ephesians 3:14-19; Colossians 1:9-14, Philippians 4:6-7 and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Tammie Jarka
Associate Director of Women's Bible Study

Day 13

2010-12-16T01:32:00.004-06:00

I get to go to Indianapolis this weekend to watch the Colts play (and to spend some much needed alone-time with my husband – that IS why we’re going, right, honey? :) We have tickets in the first row of the first balcony in the end zone. I’ve never been to Lucas Oil Field, but I understand these will be great seats. And it’s sure to be a great game against the Jaguars! Most people razz me if they hear that I’m a Colts fan: “Oooooh…Pey-ton Man-ning…?!” like I’m crushing on him or something. [NOT!] I always clarify: I am not a Peyton Manning fan; I am a fan of good leadership.

A BIG fan.

I am an especially big fan of good leadership in the church.

It’s true. I am wired to root for, to encourage, to support, to lift up – to pray for pastors. This is my calling…

But it is ALL of our responsibility.

We all need to be praying regularly for our churches’ leadership. Today, as we pray alongside Andrew Murray’s “30 Days of Prayer” (in his classic devotional The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer), he asks us to “pray for the power of the Holy Spirit on His ministers.”

If our deepest desire for our churches is that they would be Holy Spirit-led congregations, then we must recognize our responsibility and make it a priority to pray for our pastors and leaders to be led by the Holy Spirit. Just as Paul urges in the Scriptures quoted by Murray below, our pastors and ministry leaders depend on God’s strength and deliverance to come through our prayers. Their passion and vision for the congregations they lead comes from where if not from God? That we would all have fellowship and serve in churches that have leaders who are Holy Spirit-inspired, -led, and -driven! May you feel the burden of their need and responsibly lift them to the Lord!

It is also our privilege to pray for ministry leaders.

It is not by accident where you worship and serve. God very intentionally placed you under specific leadership – not only for your sake, but for theirs! When things seem to running great in your church or ministry, it is easy to just blindly trust that leadership is on track holding everything together. Indeed! These are the days that we must pray for them even more! A church that is seemingly running smoothly is fodder for the devil, and he will quickly and quietly move in to chew us up and spit us out! It is our privilege to pray for the Holy Spirit to continually rest on the shoulders of our leadership…to protect them, to be close in their ears, reminding them of their call to minister. It is our privilege to recognize their need and to take it to the Father - before it becomes a reality. Don’t wait for problems to arise in your church before you intend to pray. Count it a privilege to pray for the ongoing strength and protection of your leadership.

If you don’t realize the responsibility, nor recognize the privilege, consider the blessing you’ll receive for praying for the power of the Holy Spirit to be on your pastor. In what direction would our prone-to-wandering hearts be heading without the guidance of our pastor-shepherd? There is no greater blessing in this world than to be walking in the will of God, led by his Holy Spirit. When we pray for the Spirit’s anointing to rest heavily on our pastors, we will receive the blessing of his anointing as the Holy Spirit deeply touches our hearts: in the explanation of the Word of God, in the wisdom of godly counsel, in the comfort of an understanding ear, and even in the challenging words that bring conviction. The blessing we receive does not come from the minister, but through the minister by the Holy Spirit. Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit on His ministers.

Per the prayer guide we are following:

What to Pray: For the Power of the Holy Spirit on His Ministers

"I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me" (Romans 15:30).

"He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers" (2 Corinthians 1:10-11).

What a great number of ministers there are in Christ's church. And what a need they have for prayer. What strength they might work in if they were all clothed with the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray for this, long and often. Think of your own pastor, and ask especially for him. Connect every ministry in your town or neighborhood or the world with the prayer that all might be filled with the Holy Spirit. Plead for them the promise that they will be clothed with power from on high.

How to Pray: In Secret

"But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Matthew 6:6).

"After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone. Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself" (Matthew 14:23; John 6:15).

Take time to realize when you are alone with God: Here am I, face-to-face with God, to intercede for His servants. Never think you have no influence or that your prayer would not be missed. Your prayer and your faith will make a difference. Pray in secret to God for his ministers of the Gospel.

Your Own Prayer Requests: [Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you how to pray for your pastor in secret.]

What a poignant word for Murray to end this day of prayer: to pray for our ministers in secret. God knows what He intends to do in our churches and through our leaders. Listen! He will inspire a prayer, burden your heart regarding a need, or perhaps lay a Scripture on your heart. Speak His words back to Him, believing Him to do the work He longs to do. He is listening, and He will do His good work in the heart of your pastor.

One thing I will miss on Sunday is the opportunity to watch Tony Dungy coach. I believe he played a significant role in the leadership legacy that’s been built in Indy. I wonder how long that legacy will last now that he’s gone? I am inspired to pray that the legacy of leadership being built in my church would continue in the strength and power of the Holy Spirit, for if it is, it will never fade away. Let’s pray for that – together, in secret!

-Tracy Barbel

Day 12

2010-12-14T17:09:00.004-06:00

Most of you know I spent nearly 2 years trying to figure out if this whole faith thing was for real, I wondered if Jesus was the real deal or if there were more ways to heaven than through Christ. I came to know that He is the ONLY way and I put my trust in Him to save me from my sins. And because of the work He did on the cross I can know, without a doubt, that I have been reconciled with God. Can I hear an AMEN!! What I haven't said too many times is that the first year was spent determining if He was the real deal, the second year I spent trying to hide my sin from Him. I had put my sin on a sliding scale of those that were bad, not so bad and wow, really bad. To God, sin is sin. Our consequences are different but sin is sin and God can have no part of sin. The work Jesus did on the cross is for all sin, there is no sin that is outside the reach of God. All sin can be forgiven when confessed. Read the dialogue that happened recently between a patient and his nurse. The nurse told the patient he no longer went to church. The patient asked, "Why." "I sinned by killing people as a sniper in the war and couldn't be forgiven." The patient said, "What do you think Jesus died on the cross for? He died on the cross to forgive all our sins." Now, that is worth an amen!! The nurse recognizes he is a sinner but doesn't see the work on the cross as sufficient to forgive his sins. May this nurse find His Redeemer has already done the work, it is sufficient and it is finished, may he receive the free gift of salvation.

Day 12
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Spirit to Convince the World of Sin

"But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgement" (John 16:7-8).
Christ's coming, death, and resurrection was to take away sin. The first work of the Holy Spirit is to convict the world of sin. Without conviction there is no repentance. And without repentance there is no salvation. Unless the Spirit moves to convict and convince of sin, no deep or abiding revival and no powerful conversion is possible. Pray that the Gospel may be preached in such power that all may see how they have rejected and crucified Christ afresh, and that they may cry out, "What shall we do?"

How to Pray: Stir Yourself Up to Take Hold of God's Strength

"Let them come to me for refuge; let them make peace with me, yes, let them make peace with me" (Isaiah 27:5). "No one calls on your name or strives to lay hold of you; for you have hidden your face from us and made us waste away because of our sins" (Isaiah 64:7). "For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands" (2 Timothy 1:6). Appropriate God's strength. God is a Spirit. We cannot take hold of Him and keep Him with us but by the Spirit. Take refuge in God and secure from Him what He has promised: conviction of sin. Pray for the power of the Spirit to convince His people as well as the lost of their sins. There is no effective prayer apart from the Spirit. Give your whole heart to Him in prayer and faith that He will work and reveal to those for whom you pray the true state of their hearts and their need to confess their sins and be made right with God.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Don't keep secrets from God. If you are keeping secrets from Him tell Him why, what are you afraid of? Ask forgiveness for the secrets you have kept from Him. Let Him speak the truth of His love to you and into your heart. There is nothing...no thing...that you can do or have done that will have God love you any less or any more than he already does. He doesn't love you for what you do, He loves you because of who you are, He created you.
~Ask forgiveness for comparing yourself to others' sins. Are you using the same sliding scale that I used? We (me included) tend to compare ourselves to others to determine our worth in a positive light and even in a negative light. We see someone else's sin and immediately think we aren't so bad. When we compare ourselves to our sinless Savior we are sinners.

I finally told God my sins, all of them. He wasn't surprised, He already knew them, He just needed me to be in agreement with Him. Oddly enough, the conviction from the Spirit was so gentle and kind and encouraging. Satan wants to keep us quiet. The quieter we remain the more stewing goes on, the more we beat ourselves up and think God could never love us. I praise God for the freedom He offers through Christ. Oh, it is glorious!! Spend some time with God now. If you have already told Him everything, tell Him thanks for His forgiveness. If you are keeping secrets, stop hiding from Him, tell Him everything, He is big enough (and already knows). Once we confess, true repentance has taken hold and our salvation is secure. Amen!!

Day 11

2010-12-13T21:15:00.005-06:00

Sometimes I read ahead in the devotional section and sometimes I just open the book as I sit down to write. I have usually been mulling over a topic in my head for most of the day and then allow myself the time to pray about what to share. Tonight I just opened the book to the topic and I am so excited. You are going to hear my heart on this one because it is near and dear to me. With a ministry like WBS we need women willing to come alongside us to serve the women of WBS. Each year it is a s-t-r-u-g-g-l-e!! Since this is God's ministry I know He will bring together the workers, but it is up to the ones He calls to be obedient to that call. If she responds with a no because she is scared or nervous but God has told her through His Word that He will enable her to do all that He calls her to, and she says no, then the body suffers. She is missed and someone who wasn't to be in that role fills in the gap. Fortunately, God gives her strength and will enable her but it isn't what it could be. Does that make sense? For instance, I heard over the last couple of months that a kitchen coordinator was needed for one of our ministries. The director filled in that first session, and maybe the second session, because she couldn't find someone to fill the spot. A gal who home schools her 4 children, is a leader for another part of Women's Ministries, belongs to various committees in her town along with other responsibilities, said yes to being the kitchen coordinator. She said had she been asked last month she would have to say no because she was really busy. But this month is better. May the Lord bless the work of her hands!! The great part is, she WILL be blessed for her servant's heart. Here is my question, why is it that one woman does so many things to serve God and we cannot find another woman to do just one? This might be a blog that you stop reading but stay with me! I am not going to try and talk you into serving at church or in your community, you might have a great reason, that is fine! However, the Holy Spirit may just invite you to join God in a work that He has already started. Will you join Him?

Day 11
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

How to Pray: For More Laborers

"Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field" (Matthew 9:38). What a remarkable call of the Lord Jesus for help from His followers in filling the need for workers. Again, because of the strongholds of Satan in these lands, it is not an easy task to get young people to answer the call and to go out. It is truly through prayer that we can break through this barrier. Our text proves that God wants us to pray for laborers, and if He wants us to pray, He will hear us, and He will answer. Pray for the young people studying in the theological seminaries, the missionary training centers, and Bible institutes, that they may have the courage and determination to prepare themselves and equip themselves for this great effort-the evangelization of the world. Encourage the faithful in your churches to cooperate in the financial support of those who are willing to go. Raise up prayer warriors who will without fail support the youth who give themselves to the fields that are white unto harvest.

How to Pray: By Faith, Doubting Nothing

"'Have faith in God,' Jesus answered. 'I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, "Go, throw yourself into the sea," and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him'" (Mark 11:22-23).
Have faith in God! Ask Him to make himself known to you as the faithful, mighty God, who works all things out for His glory. You will be encouraged to believe that He can provide suitable and sufficient laborers for all the fields that need them, however impossible this might appear-but remember, nothing is done without prayer and faith. Apply this wherever and whenever a good laborer is needed. The work is God's. He can give the appropriate worker for the appropriate field of service. But He must be asked. This is the method He has chosen. We must wait on Him and ask for laborers.

You Own Prayer Requests

~Ask for forgiveness if God has ever called you to serve but you said no because you were afraid.
~Ask God for another chance to serve Him. Ask Him to provide you an opportunity that isn't too scary to start with, something you enjoy. Then, start looking :)Talk to other people who are serving in their churches and cities, join them on an event or at a task.
~Tell God that you love Him and want to serve Him in any way He sees fit and even if it is scary that you will try something new.
~If you need laborers, PRAY!

One of my greatest joys is putting together our leadership team. We have nearly 60-70 leaders in various capacities that come together for WBS to open and function on a weekly basis. For the last several years we have trained anywhere from 15-25 new leaders in various roles. Most of that leadership is put together in March, April and throughout the summer months. We haven't had enough workers up until the very last moment, at least for the past 5 years that I have been involved. Please know, God is NEVER late. It might seem like the tardy bell (my due date) is ringing but if you really take note of the actual deadline he is never late. Oh, ladies, we are praying for laborers!! I try not to pace and mumble but I pray A LOT and I wait on the Lord. Well, I just got word today that a gal who was invited into leadership 2 years ago and needed to say no, has today said yes. Funny thing is, she is in a group right now where the leader is moving and the co-leader is the woman who invited her into leadership 2 years ago. Oh, I have the BEST job ever. The co-leader will take her under her wing, show her the ropes and invest into her all that God desires.

There is a saying that 20% of the people do 80% of the work, let's change that. Because of your love for Christ begin to pray and ask Him how you can serve Him for His glory! Be one that says Yes to God and watch what happens.

Day 10

2010-12-12T19:48:00.003-06:00

During yesterday's How to Pray section the author says, "Time is one of the primary standards of value. The time we give a thing is proof of the interest and value we place on it. " I have thought about that statement a lot. I have thought about my own behavior and where do I spend my time? What do I place great value on? For the third day in a row the author of our book is asking us to pray for those willing to go out on to the mission field. I think the author has done this because this work is of great value and doesn't come easily. I have been on mission trips outside the country and I have discovered mission fields in the US, as well. My most recent mission field is my neighborhood and my extended family. Frankly, I'd rather go out of the country!!!

Day 10
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For God's Spirit on Our Missionaries

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8)
What the world needs today is not only more missionaries but the outpouring of God's Spirit on all those He has sent out to work for Him in the foreign fields. God always gives His servants power equal to the work He asks of them. Think of the vastness and difficulty of this work. Most fields are under the power and sway of the enemy of our souls. Missionaries enter into Satan's strongholds. Before any significant work can be done, these powers must be broken down. Spiritual warfare is the order of the day. We must pray for those who have made it their life's work to face these difficulties head on and to minister to those who in many cases have never heard the name of Jesus, much less know anything of the Gospel. The work of prayer for missionaries is not easy. It takes dedication, concentration, and persistence. Do not give up the fight. God is with you.

What to Pry: Trusting God's Faithfulness

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful" (Hebrews 10:23). Think of God's promises to His Son concerning His kingdom, to the church concerning the lost, to His servants concerning their ministry, and to you concerning your prayer life. Then pray in the assurance that He is faithful; He waits for prayer and faith so that He can answer and fulfill every request. "Faithful is he that call you [to pray], who also will do [what He has promised]" (1 Thessalonians 5:24 KJV). Take up individual missionaries that you know; make yourself one with them, and pray until you know that you are heard. Intercede on their behalf. There may be times and places where they are unable to pray and count on those at home to bridge the gap!

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Pray for the lost, those who do not have a personal relationship with Jesus.
~If you have friends who are struggling in their marriage, pray for them. Do you have friends who are raising a prodigal child? Pray for them on a regular basis. Pray for strength and wisdom on how to best parent that child and pray that the parents will find any needed help for God to accomplish through them the plans He has for their child.
~Are you raising a prodigal child? Check out a book written by Blaine Bartel titled, "7 Absolutes to Pray Over Your Kids." Pray the prayers the author has written until you are able to pray the prayers the Spirit gives you to pray specifically for your child.

Shortly after I first came to know Jesus as Savior, I was sitting in church listening to a sermon. The pastor was talking about Satan's territory. Satan's territory is the home where no one believes in Jesus. Satan's territory is the neighborhood where divorce is high, abuse is high and he wants those involved to keep it a secret. When the secret is told and prayed over Satan loses that plot of territory. In this particular sermon the pastor mentioned spiritual warfare and when Christians step out in faith to make Jesus known to others that Satan gets mad and tries to quiet us. I was feeling pretty smug because Satan didn't seem to be bothering me. I felt pretty mighty and strong. As I was thinking along those lines the pastor said something like, if you have never experienced spiritual warfare then you aren't doing anything to make Satan mad, you aren't messing with his territory. My smug mumbling became a charge to make Satan mad, to go out into the world with such a passion to serve the One who saved me. The One I had fallen so deeply in love with needed to be known by others. I told the Lord right then and there that I was His to do with as He saw fit. I wanted to impact the world for Christ and make His name known to the lost. I had no idea what I had just asked for. Although I have experienced warfare that I wanted to run from, I also experienced lives being changed because of the love of Christ. Oh the warfare is real and it is really hard to endure at times but as we have stated in the past, "Our God wins!" When the warfare comes up I know it is because God is on the move and Satan doesn't like it. So, na-na-na-na-boo-boo, Satan, look out cuz here comes our God...and He wins! Let's keep praying ladies!!

Day 9

2010-12-11T18:38:00.004-06:00

Several years ago I met with a gal who was celebrating her 5th wedding anniversary and she was miserable. She married her darling husband who served Jesus alongside her while they dated but once the wedding occurred he stopped serving. He became distant from her and their children and spent most of his time at work. She longed to have the man that she dated back again. She longed to have him love Jesus and show it like he used to. She longed for him to be engaged in their children's lives. She said she had been praying but had pretty much given up. We joined together to pray, and invited others to pray. She continued to love Jesus and trust that her husband belonged to Him and that some day (sooner rather than later) her husband would have a renewed faith. A man, a few years older than her husband, began to spend time with him. He shared life with him, built a relationship with him and invested time and energy in him too. Her husband began to show signs of a renewed interest in Christ. He began to attend church again, he didn't want to spend as much time at work because he wanted to be home with his family. This man began to fall in love with Jesus like never before. He and his wife fell in love with each other like never before too. He quit his job, they sold everything and took their children to a land where Jesus wants to be known. They are serving on a mission field in a distant land where everything is new and hard. But the prayers of their brothers and sisters in Christ are strong and mighty because of Christ. Their prayer warriors know the power isn't in the pray-er but the One....do you remember the rest?? The power is in the One who hears the prayer.

Day 9
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray.

"While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, 'Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.' So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off. The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus" (Acts 13:2-4). The evangelization of the world depends, first of all, upon a revival of prayer. Even deeper than the need for workers is the need for prevailing prayer on behalf of those already laboring on our mission fields. Pray that mission work may be done in a spirit of waiting upon God, hearing the voice of the Spirit, and sending workers out with fasting and prayer. Pray that in our churches, our missionary interests may be directed by the power of the Holy Spirit and concentrated prayer. It is a Spirit-filled, praying church that will send out Spirit-filled, praying missionaries, equipped to invade the Enemy's territory.

How to Pray: Take Time

"I am a man of prayer" (Psalm 109:4).
"We will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word" (Acts 6:4).
"Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few" (Ecclesiastes 5:2).
Time is one of the primary standards of value. The time we give a thing is proof of the interest and value we place on it. We need time with God in order to realize His presence, to wait for Him to make himself known, to consider and feel the needs we ask for, to take our place in Christ, and to pray until we truly believe we have received what we ask. Take time in prayer and receive blessing and provision for the mission work of the church.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~Ask God for His heart toward mission work
~Ask God for the name of a missionary that you can support in prayer or financially
~Connect with a missionary in order to understand her/his specific prayer needs (practice from yesterday's entry...pray specifically!)
~Consider how you might reach out and serve someone this Christmas season

Sometimes I look around me and I think Satan is winning. So much bad stuff is happening and it seems like so many are either walking away from faith in Christ, or creating their own savior and calling it their salvation. However, our God wins. I need to type that again, our God wins!!!! Satan has no hold on us and it is time for a revival that allows Jesus to wake up His people. I believe His people are waking up, getting the dust out of their eyes and getting ready. I believe they are getting ready for a revival of faith in our churches, our families, our schools and in the world. A woman said to me last week, as we discussed the demise of our surroundings, "We can't change the world." I said, "Yes we can, we can pray." Ladies, join me in praying for the Spirit to come in power and might and that we will be changed. These are exciting days ahead!! Tell Him you want to pray in the power of the Spirit. Ask Him to teach you to pray so that your prayers will be Spirit-filled. Next, prepare to mess with the Enemy's territory. The Enemy isn't going to like you messing with his territory so pray for God's protection for yourself and for your family.

Be safe with the expected snow tomorrow and go to church with a heart prepared to praise our Heavenly Father!!

Blessings upon you.

Day 8

2010-12-10T21:40:00.005-06:00

Have you ever given away money? Have you ever given your time to Jesus? Have you given until it hurts? Mother Teresa says, "Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go." I have had the privilege of leaving the country on two missions trip. However, we don't have to leave the country in order to minister to others. God can use whatever we are willing to give, time or money. There is a ministry, Feed My Starving Children, located in Aurora, IL., about 10 minutes from my home whose primary purpose is to feed starving children. I have been several times and I am always amazed at what can be accomplished in a short period of time. FMSC (http://www.fmsc.org/) packs food for children in several different countries like Haiti, Zimbabwe, Uganda, the Philippines and more. Packing is done with up to 90 people for about an hour and a half. In that time frame enough meals are packed to allow up to 90 children, sometimes more, to eat one meal a day for the next year. Stories are shared that tug at heart strings, stories that you can't help but be touched by. Children's lives are being changed by God with future purposes in mind.

Day 8
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer by Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For the Spirit on All Christian Workers

"On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many" (2 Corinthians 1:11). There are Christian workers in every walk of life; not only in our churches and missions but also in our schools, our hospitals, our government, our military, our highways, our farms, our markets, in business, and in leisure. God be praised for this! But think what more they could accomplish if each were living in the fullness of the Holy Spirit! Pray for them, it makes you a partner in their work, and you will have reason to praise God when you hear of blessing in their lives and in their work on every front.

How to Pray: With Specific Petitions

"What do you want me to do for you?" (Luke 18:4).
In the above reference, the Lord knew what the blind man wanted and yet He asked him. Verbalizing our desires gives credence to the transaction in which we are engaged with God and so awakens faith and expectation. Be specific in your petitions so as to know what answer you may look for. Think of the great number of Christians you know who are working for God in their various fields and endeavors, and ask and expect God to bless them and prosper them in answer to the prayers of the people. Ask even more specifically for those in your own family and place of work. Intercession is not the breathing out of pious wishes; it is believing, persevering prayer to receive specific answers to specific requests.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~When interceding for others, ask them how you can pray specifically for them and then do it. Be sure to follow up with them at a later date to see how the prayer has been answered.
~When praying for your family pray specifically. Ask God to show evidence of your families spiritual growth and then watch for the answer.
~Pray for an opportunity to be used by God during the Christmas season. Be specific on where and then watch for the opportunity to present itself. He longs to bless you and me, may we look for His answer as we move about our day.

I love praying for specific things. When FMSC first moved to the area, they were in a temporary site awaiting a permanent location to open. There seemed to be obstacle after obstacle that came up and delay after delay. We asked them how we could pray specifically for them. They needed inspections to get done and be approved, they needed specific workers to show up and get specific tasks done in order to move forward. We had so much fun praying for them and then hearing how God answered those prayers. Did God need us to pray in order to accomplish those things? No, He doesn't need us to do anything before He acts, however, He gives us the opportunity to join Him in the work He is doing. If you haven't started yet to pray, just do it!! If your prayer life is feeling a little stale, tell Him you don't want a stale prayer life any longer and ask Him to help you. That is a prayer He will love answering.