November 30, 2020 Prayer - Perfect Timing for Truth

 

God of Perfect Timing,

We thank you that you are I AM, the same yesterday, today, and forever.  Your faithfulness doesn't change and your Love and Truth endure forever.  We thank you that the plans for our lives and for this nation have been designed and set in motion from before we were born - plans for a future with hope.  We thank you that what you have planned will be revealed and will not prove false.  Today we pray that your plans for righteousness for this nation would be obviously revealed.  Pour out your Truth-giving Spirit upon all who are investigating corruption and fraud in government and media, especially in the vote-counting and tallying process.  Give them supernatural wisdom, courage, and doggedness to find Truth.  And may that Truth be shown to the world with irrefutable evidence.  May that Truth be revealed before the voting of the Electoral College, avoiding further Constitutional chaos.  Help us who pray not to fret when it seems people succeed in carrying out wickedness, but to trust in your timing to expose all the darkness of the enemy.  Turn this nation back to you and your righteousness by a move of your Spirit in each individual heart and in the society at large - send Revival in your Church and an Awakening in this culture.  Help those of us who pray to stand in faith, waiting patently for your plans and purposes to be fulfilled.  In Christ's name we pray, AMEN.  

"For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay." (Hab. 2:3)

"Be still before the Lord
    and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when people succeed in their ways,
    when they carry out their wicked schemes." (Psalm 37:7)

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you." (Jer. 29:11-14)

November 29, 2020 Prayer - Arrogance vs. Justice

God of Justice,

Surely, Lord, you are good to your people, to those who are pure in heart.  Remind us of that  - remind us that you hold us and guide us by your counsel - when we see the arrogance and the prosperity of the wicked.   They seem to have no struggles and to be free from common human burdens and ills.  Their callous hearts and evil imaginations have no limits on the violence, malice, arrogance, and oppression they threaten.  Their thoughts and actions - sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly - come from hearts that are set on darkness and evil.  It is hard for your children to watch the power and influence of these evil ones without feeling downtrodden; it seems there are no repercussions for those who overtly work against you and your Kingdom.  Yet, we know you see their thoughts and deeds.  Your word tells us you will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins; you will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless.  So today we pray that you would stop the arrogance of those in positions of power and authority in government, media, education, business, arts & entertainment, the family, and especially your Church.  We bind this spirit of arrogance, in the name of Jesus.  Instead we pray for a spirit of Truth and Justice to be poured out on this nation.  We pray the leaders and influencers come to a place of humility before you and are turned away from their arrogant actions.  We pray your Church's light shines brightly in the mist of the darkness and chaos of our day so that others may see the good deeds that come from hearts and spirits centered in you.  We pray in the name and for the honor and glory of Jesus our savior.  Amen. 

"I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless." (Isa. 13:11)

"For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and defile a person.” (Mark 7:21-23)

"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

“Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 18:18)

1 Surely God is good to Israel,
    to those who are pure in heart.
2 But as for me, my feet had almost slipped;
    I had nearly lost my foothold.
3 For I envied the arrogant
    when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.
4 They have no struggles;
    their bodies are healthy and strong.
5 They are free from common human burdens;
    they are not plagued by human ills.
6 Therefore pride is their necklace;
    they clothe themselves with violence.
7 From their callous hearts comes iniquity;
    their evil imaginations have no limits.
8 They scoff, and speak with malice;
    with arrogance they threaten oppression.
9 Their mouths lay claim to heaven,
    and their tongues take possession of the earth.
10 Therefore their people turn to them
    and drink up waters in abundance.
11 They say, “How would God know?
    Does the Most High know anything?”
12 This is what the wicked are like—
    always free of care, they go on amassing wealth.
13 Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure
    and have washed my hands in innocence.
14 All day long I have been afflicted,
    and every morning brings new punishments.
15 If I had spoken out like that,
    I would have betrayed your children.
16 When I tried to understand all this,
    it troubled me deeply
17 till I entered the sanctuary of God;
    then I understood their final destiny.
18 Surely you place them on slippery ground;
    you cast them down to ruin.
19 How suddenly are they destroyed,
    completely swept away by terrors!
20 They are like a dream when one awakes;
    when you arise, Lord,
    you will despise them as fantasies.
21 When my heart was grieved
    and my spirit embittered,
22 I was senseless and ignorant;
    I was a brute beast before you.
23 Yet I am always with you;
    you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
    and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
    And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
    but God is the strength of my heart
    and my portion forever.
27 Those who are far from you will perish;
    you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.
28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
    I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge;
    I will tell of all your deeds.  (Psalm 73)

November 28, 2020 Prayer - Rescued from the River of Fear

 God of Perfect Love,

Thank you that you are faithful to us - you never leave or forsake us and you are our deliverer in times of trial.  Thank you that you have not given us timidity, but power, love and self-discipline. Thank you that, just as in the Bible you repeatedly tell humans, "Do not fear," you continue to call us to a place of confidence and fearlessness when we operate in the movement of your Spirit.  God, there are many people right now caught in a river of fear.  This river was poured out by the enemy of our souls and threatens to drown anyone whose spiritual ears are not concentrated on you and your Word.  Give us ears to hear only your beautiful voice of Hope, Peace, and Love.   Drive out the darkness of this corrupt world, and tune our eyes to see the Light of your plans for our future.  Help us to rescue others out of the river of fear so that they may have courage for the facing of this hour.  Replace our fearful hearts of stone with hearts of love alone so that we may come thirsty to your living and healing River of Life and live in the fullness you call us to live.  For the glory and in the name of Jesus we pray, Amen. 

"For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline." (2 Tim. 1:7)

"The Lord will deliver them to you, and you must do to them all that I have commanded you. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”  (Deut. 31:5-8)

"This is how love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment: In this world we are like Jesus. There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us."  (1 John 4:17-19)

"Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.  There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever." (Rev. 22:1-5)

"Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive." (John 7:37-39)

November 27, 2020 Prayer - Anchor of Hope

God of Hope,

Thank you that you have given us a future with hope and that you are the anchor for our souls.  In this challenging season, many people are looking for hope because life can be difficult, at times even feel brutal. A pandemic has stolen jobs and destroyed the dreams of many, ravaging the health of some and taking the lives, livelihood, and hope of others. We pray that when we experience fear, disillusionment, and the underlying sense of unrest in our nation, you would be our sustaining force of hope. Enable us to overcome the pain of loss and the paralyzing power of fear. Remind us that are not at the mercy of life’s unpredictable winds and currents; the storms won’t destroy us. Show us the power of your hope where our faith is formed. In Christ's name we pray, Amen.*

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)

"[W]e who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." (Hebrews 6:18-19)

“I know the plans I have for you…to give you a future and a hope” Jeremiah 29:11

*adapted from https://www.givehim15.com/post/november-27-2020

November 26, 2020 Prayer - Legacy and Light

Guiding God,

Among the Europeans who settled North America were several groups of deeply committed Christians who sought freedom from religious persecution.  You gave them vision, resources, and courage to leave Old Europe and come to a new continent, filled with opportunities and dangers, in order to live out the call to Righteousness that you had placed on their lives.  While we confess that these groups of settlers were by no means perfect in the way they interacted with often-helpful native peoples, we also know that you use imperfect people through all times and places to further the work of your Kingdom.  Thank you for watching over these, our spiritual forefathers and foremothers, as they came and their civic descendants eventually created a place where peoples of many faiths could worship freely.  You have used this nation as a launching point to spread the Gospel throughout the world.  We pray that you will help us as a nation to remain in you, to bear fruit for you, and to be a light for truth, justice, and your Kingdom in this world. Thank you for the gift of this nation; help us to be good stewards of her past, present, and future.  In Jesus's name we pray, Amen. 

"Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."  (John 15:4)

"Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn." (Isaiah 60:3)

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house."  (Matthew 5:14-15)

November 25, 2020 Prayer - God of the New

God of New Life,

You are the same yesterday, today, and forever; yet you call us to sing a new song and to watch for the new things that you do.  In the midst of living real life it can be hard to see what you may be doing. When we are unemployed - when we are divorcing - when we are lonely - when we are ill - when we are hurting - when we are fearful or worried - when we are concerned for someone - when we are walking through the valley of the shadow - it can be hard to see where you are. Yet, we know you do something new or unexpected to show your glory and power and to rescue your people. Help us to see that whatever we may be going through, you may be preparing to do - or already doing - something new. It may not be what we expect, but it is just like you to make a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.  Help us to be willing to use new wineskins for the new wine of your Spirit you want to pour into us.  Help us to see the new thing(s) that you are calling us to do and the new "song" you are calling us to sing. Help us to understand what in that "song" that will cause others to see and fear you and to put their trust in you.  In the powerful name of Christ we pray, Amen. 

"No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins." (Mark 2:21-22 NIV)

This is what God says, the God who builds a road right through the ocean, who carves a path through pounding waves, "Forget about what's happened; don't keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I'm about to do something brand-new. It's bursting out! Don't you see it? There it is! I'm making a road through the desert, rivers in the badlands. Wild animals will say 'Thank you!' —the coyotes and the buzzards— Because I provided water in the desert, rivers through the sun-baked earth, Drinking water for the people I chose, the people I made especially for myself, a people custom-made to praise me. (Isa. 43:16, 18-21 MSG)

November 24, 2020 Prayer - Power to Choose

 

Inviting God, 

Thank you for the amazing and intricately complex Creation you have designed and set into motion. Thank you for placing humans in that delicate and perfect life-sustaining Creation. Thank you for your arms of love constantly trying to woo people so that they not only believe in you, but follow your will and your ways.  Thank you for the simplicity of our choices - to believe or not; to trust you or not, to seek you or not, to live life serving you and other people or not.  Thank you that when we ask, you hear us; that when we seek, we will find; that when we knock on your metaphorical door, you will answer.  Thank you that each moment of each day we can choose to serve the Lord and to say, "Thy will be done."  Give us realization to know these choices as they come up and the courage and conviction to choose you every time.  Then pour out your Spirit on those convictions so that we can live life as Salt and Light to this world that desperately needs you.  Christ Jesus, we pray in your name, Amen. 

The Teacher explains our power to choose: ‘There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, “Thy will be done,” and those to whom God says, in the end, “Thy will be done.” All that are in Hell, choose it. Without that self-choice there could be no Hell. No soul that seriously and constantly desires joy will ever miss it. Those who seek find. To those who knock it is opened.’ From The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15 NLT) "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you." (Matthew 7:7 NIV) “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends." (Rev. 3:20 NLT) “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-16)

November 23, 2020 - Avenging Corruption

Avenging God,

We pray your justice would be poured out on this nation's darkness, corruption, and evil.  We pray you would bring into your Light all corruption, fraud and lies that go against your plan for this nation.  Regardless of what political party, what media organization, what race or class, what influence, what governmental role, or what part of the Church they might be, expose with irrefutable evidence anyone and everyone who may be plotting against righteousness, truth, and justice - especially in the vote counting process.  Bring forth courageous whistleblowers where Truth needs to be shown.  Cut off the pride and schemes of those who seek to circumvent or corrupt the lawful, transparent, and truthful vote counting process.  Instead, may you appoint, guide, and protect lawyers, judges, and others who will steer the investigations into fraud, expose corruption, show irrefutable evidence where there is criminal activity, and appropriately convict the guilty.  It is not might or power but by your Spirit the mountains will be moved, so we pray for a move of your Spirit to expose all mountains of darkness and corruption.  We know that you do not forsake your people or this nation that you began it to be a launching point for the Gospel to go to all the world.  So we pray for you to shine forth, Judge of the earth, and pay back the proud, wicked, and arrogant for what they have done.  Bring this nation to righteousness and may the upright in heart follow you.  In the strong name of Christ we pray, Amen. 

“The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve. How long, Lord, will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant? They pour out arrogant words; all the evildoers are full of boasting. They crush your people, Lord; they oppress your inheritance. For the Lord will not reject his people; he will never forsake his inheritance. Judgment will again be founded on righteousness, and all the upright in heart will follow it.” (Psalm 94:1-5; 14-15; NIV)

 “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel saying, ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of hosts. ‘What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain; and he will bring forth the top stone with shouts of “Grace, grace to it!”’ (Zech. 4:6-7 NASB) 

November 22, 2020 Prayer - Praying for Pastors

Shepherding God, 

Today we pray for the pastors of your Church - for those men and women you have entrusted to lead congregations of your followers.  We pray that you would give them a deep hunger for You - your righteousness, your justice, and your love.  We pray they would be totally led by your Holy Spirit and not by the other spirits of this world.  We pray their ministries would be protected from temptation to sin - especially temptations to power, money, fame, or sexual sins.  Protect their marriages and children from the prowling of the enemy of our souls.  Help them to be good shepherds for the flocks they lead - giving them good spiritual food from the Word and always leading in such a way that encourages spiritual growth and service in their communities. Help us to not neglect to pray for them, as we know they are under your strict supervision and are held to a high standard.  We pray you would guide them personally and in their ministries into the right paths, for the honor and glory of your Name. For Jesus's sake we pray, Amen. 

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.  “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—  just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. (John 10:11-15)

"He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake." (Psalm 23:3)

 7-8 Appreciate your pastoral leaders who gave you the Word of God. Take a good look at the way they live, and let their faithfulness instruct you, as well as their truthfulness. There should be a consistency that runs through us all. For Jesus doesn’t change—yesterday, today, tomorrow, he’s always totally himself.

17 Be responsive to your pastoral leaders. Listen to their counsel. They are alert to the condition of your lives and work under the strict supervision of God. Contribute to the joy of their leadership, not its drudgery. Why would you want to make things harder for them?

18-21 Pray for us. We have no doubts about what we’re doing or why, but it’s hard going and we need your prayers. All we care about is living well before God. Pray that we may be together soon.  (from Hebrews 13, MSG)

November 21, 2020 Prayer - For Children Everywhere

God, 

Thank you for all the beautiful and amazing children you create.  Today we pray that your protection and blessing would be upon all children.  We pray you would help us to help them grow in wisdom, stature, and the favor of the Lord. We pray your Word would be known to them and they would have their needs met. And we pray for hope and peace through Jesus Christ.

- for children who do not have enough food to eat
- for children who spend their lives in orphanages or foster care
- for children who never are held, or laughed with, or smiled at, or hugged, or who never know what it means to be loved
- for children growing up and learning to hate other people
- for the millions who have been aborted over the last forty years
- for children in unstable or ungodly family situations
- for children whose circumstances force them to grow up long before they should
- for children pressed into military or terrorist organizations
- for children used or sold in the world sex trades

- for Barron Trump, growing up in the artificial bubble of the White House
- for children whose parents are ill, divorcing, or otherwise going through trauma
- for children whose differences or disabilities are seen as liabilities by others
- for children who are being uprooted when parents have to relocate to support the family
- for children who have never heard of the love, grace, hope and peace offered through Jesus Christ

God in heaven, I make my prayer
For all the people everywhere
Who live in fear or pain or doubt;
Whose homes are gone, and hopes run out.

God in heaven, I make my prayer
For all the children everywhere
Who live in terrible, warring places;
Who live with hunger and strange, sad faces.

God in heaven, I make my prayer
For all good people everywhere
Who live in comfort, love and peace,
And pray sincerely for strife to cease;
But who do not always hear the call
Of those who live with nothing at all.

God in heaven, hear my prayer!
Help all people everywhere
To come closer together in plenty and need,
And to make our world your home, indeed. *
AMEN

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”  (Matthew 19:14)

"And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." (Luke 2:52)

*("Prayer for Today" By Margaret Tucker, text by Mary M. Coulson)

Prayer for November 20, 2020 - Prayer for the Caregivers

 God of the Caregivers,

Today we remember and lift up those among us who care for others.  Just as Jochebed cared for baby Moses, Ruth cared for her mother-in-law Naomi, Mary cared for the infant Jesus, and John cared for Mary, we thank you that we have many models of how to care for each other.  Yet, in this time and place, we pray specifically for those who care for others in medical facilities, elderly care facilities, orphanages, foster and struggling kids' homes, developmentally-challenged adult care, homeless shelters, prisons, and other facilities in which the weak, infirm, or destitute are cared for.  We pray for strengthening of the hearts, resolve, and courage of those who work with vulnerable populations.  We pray they would be blessings to those who are alone and isolated. We pray for protection of their immune systems, their families, their livelihoods, and especially that you would encourage them and strengthen them in this time.  Help them have soft hearts with wisdom, courage, and confidence to care for their charges.  Be their refuge and fortress, their God in whom they trust. Save them from the snare of discouragement and exhaustion and from deadly pestilence.  Cover them with your protective wings, and give them refuge and peace.  We pray in Jesus's name, Amen. 

"You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted;
    you encourage them, and you listen to their cry,
defending the fatherless and the oppressed,
    so that mere earthly mortals
    will never again strike terror."  (Psalm 10:17-18)

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.  Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you."  (1 Thes. 5:11-12)

"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
    my God, in whom I trust.”
Surely he will save you
    from the fowler’s snare
    and from the deadly pestilence.
He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart." (Psalm 91:1-4)

November 19, 2020 Prayer - Trusting Eyes on God

Trustworthy God,

Thank you for your faithfulness, your goodness, and your loving-kindness to us, your children.  Thank you that we don't need to fear because you know us and have called us into relationship with you.  Thank you for providing ways through hard things, even when we see no way.   You are with us when it seems we are passing through metaphorical waters or walking through metaphorical fire - you said you would never leave us or forsake us.  Remind us to immerse ourselves in the reality of who YOU are - not the "reality" we see in the world around us.  Help us to give our attention to what you are doing right now and not to worry about what may or may not happen tomorrow.  Teach us to trust in you - that you will help us deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.  Teach us to trust in your promises, in your Word, but especially your Character.  You are the Lord our God, the Holy One, our Savior.  Thank you for the spirit of Peace that comes upon us when we trust you.  In Jesus's name we pray, Amen. 

"People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.  Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.  (Matthew 6, MSG)

But now, this is what the Lord says—
    he who created you, Jacob,
    he who formed you, Israel:
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
    I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
2 When you pass through the waters,
    I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
    they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
    you will not be burned;
    the flames will not set you ablaze.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.  (Isa. 43:1-3)

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deut. 31:6

November 18, 2020 Prayer - Thundering Still, Small Voice

 

Thundering God of Quiet,

Thank you for your Voice that speaks to us in the midst of what can seem like chaos.  Thank you that your Voice is powerful and majestic, thundering over the mighty waters of this life, guiding us in the ways we should go.  Thank you that even when the paths we travel are blind and unfamiliar, you guide us by your Light. Thank you for your Presence which makes our rough places smooth because you won't forsake those you love.  Like Elijah, there seem to be noisy winds, powerful earthquakes, and terrible fires in life.  Help us to remember that these voices of media, social media, and other "experts" or "prophets of the land" are not your Voice. Sovereign Lord, quiet us so we may sense your Holy Spirit within us and know your shepherding Voice. Lead us, guide us, whisper to us in your thunder, that we may know your Truth and act upon it.  As we know your leading, give us wisdom to know what to do, courage to go where you call us to go, and peace that we are following you, our Lord and Savior.  In the powerful name of Christ I pray, Amen. 

"The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”  Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave."  (1 Kings 19:11-13)

"I will lead the blind by ways they have not known,

    along unfamiliar paths I will guide them;

I will turn the darkness into light before them

    and make the rough places smooth.

These are the things I will do;

    I will not forsake them." (Isa. 42:16)

“‘Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Because of your false words and lying visions, I am against you, declares the Sovereign Lord. My hand will be against the prophets who see false visions and utter lying divinations. They will not belong to the council of my people or be listed in the records of Israel, nor will they enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Sovereign Lord." (Ezek. 13:9)

"The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
    the God of glory thunders,
    the Lord thunders over the mighty waters.
The voice of the Lord is powerful;
    the voice of the Lord is majestic."  (Psalm 29:3-4)

"He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;

    I will be exalted among the nations,

    I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress."  (Psalm 46:10-11)

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me." - Jesus  (John 10:27)

November 17, 2020 Prayer - Righteousness and Rulers

Righteous and Just God, 

We pray for a returning to you and your Righteousness in this nation, and especially in her government.  You have spoken about our rebellion and sin against you; we know our collective guilt is great as we have turned our backs on you.  Our nation is spiritually desolate, our cities burned by fire, our morals and values stripped by ideas and worldviews that are foreign to your righteous principles.  Sometimes it seems that when we approach you in prayer you hide yourself from us and do not listen.  Yet, we come, trusting that when we confess our sins, you will be faithful to forgive us as individuals and as a nation.  You will wash us in the blood of Christ and, by your Spirit, we can learn to live in a way that is right, true, and just. So, we plead with you to make our sins that are like scarlet whiter than snow.  Help us to be willing and obedient to hear what your Voice speaks and to act accordingly.  Help us not to resist and rebel, but to hear how your mouth has spoken to us, even in our unfaithfulness.  Restore us to right relationship with you.  By your Spirit and your Church, convict our rulers who are rebels - partners with thieves - those who love bribes and chase after gifts.  Break rebels and sinners so that they can turn toward you. Give courage and protection to whistleblowers, their families, and livelihoods so that they may stand for truth, justice, and righteousness in our governmental systems.  With irrefutable evidence, bring into your Light and the consciousness of this nation any fraud, corruption, and injustice being perpetrated by government officials at any level.  May this exposure lead to convictions and lead to righteousness in our nation.  Help godly leaders to defend the causes of those who do not have power in this nation.  Thoroughly purge away our impurities and restore leaders to us who will lead this nation in Righteousness, Faithfulness, and Justice.  In the strong name of Christ I pray, Amen.  

Hear me, you heavens! Listen, earth!
    For the Lord has spoken:
“I reared children and brought them up,
    but they have rebelled against me.
3 The ox knows its master,
    the donkey its owner’s manger,
but Israel does not know,
    my people do not understand.”
4 Woe to the sinful nation,
    a people whose guilt is great,
a brood of evildoers,
    children given to corruption!
They have forsaken the Lord;
    they have spurned the Holy One of Israel
    and turned their backs on him.
5 Why should you be beaten anymore?
    Why do you persist in rebellion?
Your whole head is injured,
    your whole heart afflicted.
6 From the sole of your foot to the top of your head
    there is no soundness—
only wounds and welts
    and open sores,
not cleansed or bandaged
    or soothed with olive oil.

7 Your country is desolate,
    your cities burned with fire;
your fields are being stripped by foreigners
    right before you,
    laid waste as when overthrown by strangers.
8 Daughter Zion is left
    like a shelter in a vineyard,
like a hut in a cucumber field,
    like a city under siege.
9 Unless the Lord Almighty
    had left us some survivors,
we would have become like Sodom,
    we would have been like Gomorrah.

15 When you spread out your hands in prayer,
    I hide my eyes from you;
even when you offer many prayers,
    I am not listening.
Your hands are full of blood!
16 Wash and make yourselves clean.
    Take your evil deeds out of my sight;
    stop doing wrong.

17 Learn to do right; seek justice.
    Defend the oppressed.
Take up the cause of the fatherless;
    plead the case of the widow.
18 “Come now, let us settle the matter,”
    says the Lord.
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
    they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red as crimson,
    they shall be like wool.
19 If you are willing and obedient,
    you will eat the good things of the land;
20 but if you resist and rebel,
    you will be devoured by the sword.”
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

21 See how the faithful city
    has become a prostitute!
She once was full of justice;
    righteousness used to dwell in her—
    but now murderers!
22 Your silver has become dross,
    your choice wine is diluted with water.
23 Your rulers are rebels,
    partners with thieves;
they all love bribes
    and chase after gifts.

They do not defend the cause of the fatherless;
    the widow’s case does not come before them.
24 Therefore the Lord, the Lord Almighty,
    the Mighty One of Israel, declares:
“Ah! I will vent my wrath on my foes
    and avenge myself on my enemies.
25 I will turn my hand against you;
    I will thoroughly purge away your dross
    and remove all your impurities.
26 I will restore your leaders as in days of old,
    your rulers as at the beginning.

Afterward you will be called
    the City of Righteousness,
    the Faithful City.”
27 Zion will be delivered with justice,
    her penitent ones with righteousness.
28 But rebels and sinners will both be broken,
    and those who forsake the Lord will perish. (Isaiah 1)

November 16, 2020 Prayer - Hope

 God of Hope,

This day we praise you for the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Thank you for our eternity that is secure in you. Thank you for your Word that gives us hope in the times and places that seem dark, dreary, and even hopeless. Pour out your Spirit on us so we can remain hopeful. Encourage those whose health, job situation, family relationships, or other struggles seem overwhelming. Build up your prayer warriors to continue to persevere with hope as they pray for the Church, the election process, and this nation. May your will be done and your Kingdom come. In Jesus's name, amen.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with those who are in need." (Romans 12:12)

November 15, 2020 Prayer - Just Law System

 God of Righteousness,

Today we pray for those in the legal profession who are entrusted with the system of justice in our nation.  We pray that they may be trustworthy, accurate in analysis, correct in conclusion, able in argument, loyal to clients, honest with all, courteous to adversaries, and ever attentive to conscience.  May they have godly friendships and courage, cheerfulness and charity, diligence in duties, counsel in adversity, and patience in sufferings.*  Mostly, we pray they would honor their oath to support, uphold, and defend the Constitutions of the United States and the states in which they serve.  May their efforts be used to root out corruption, fraud, and lawlessness, and replace it with truth and justice.  May their work further the cause of Your Kingdom's Justice and Righteousness in this time and place.  For the honor of Christ we pray, Amen. 

"When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers." (Proverbs 21:15)

"Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent.  Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you.  "  (Deut. 16:19-20)

"The Lord is known by his acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands." (Psalm 9:6)

"Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you." (Psalm 89:14)

* adapted from "A Lawyer's Prayer" to St. Thomas More 

November 14, 2020 Prayer - God Laughs at the Nations

God of the Nations,

Thank you for your sovereignty over this nation and the world. Even when we don't see it, we know you are working things out for our good.  Thank you for laughing at those in earthly power who scheme to cast off your sovereignty.  Pour out your Spirit on this world and reveal your eternal purpose for this nation. We ask you to give us the nations for the Kingdom of Christ - that the earth will be filled with the glory of the Lord and be your legacy. We know that your dominion stretches to the ends of the earth and that in your timing you will shepherd them with authority and crush their rebellion.  May nations turn to you, serve you, and worship you; may they recognize your greatness and bow in reverence before you.  May your blessings be poured out on all those who turn from ungodliness and hide themselves in you.  In the strong name of Christ I pray, Amen. 

"How dare the nations plan a rebellion.
Their foolish plots are futile!
Look at how the power brokers of the world rise up to hold their summit
as the rulers scheme and confer together against Yahweh and his Anointed King, saying:
“Let’s come together and break away from the Creator.
Once and for all let’s cast off these controlling chains of God and his Christ!”

"God-Enthroned merely laughs at them; the Sovereign One mocks their madness!
Then with the fierceness of his fiery anger he settles the issue and terrifies them to death with these words: “I myself have poured out my King on Zion, my holy mountain.

“I will reveal the eternal purpose of God.
For he has decreed over me, ‘You are my favored Son.
And as your Father I have crowned you as my King Eternal.
Today I became your Father.
Ask me to give you the nations and I will do it,
and they shall become your legacy.
Your domain will stretch to the ends of the earth.
And you will shepherd them with unlimited authority,
crushing their rebellion as an iron rod smashes jars of clay!’ ”

"Listen to me, all you rebel-kings
and all you upstart judges of the earth.
Learn your lesson while there’s still time.
Serve and worship the awe-inspiring God.
Recognize his greatness and bow before him,
trembling with reverence in his presence.
Fall facedown before him and kiss the Son
before his anger is roused against you.
Remember that his wrath can be quickly kindled!
But many blessings are waiting for all
who turn aside to hide themselves in him!" (Psalm 2, TPT)

November 13, 2020 Prayer - Trustworthiness

God, the Way, the Truth, and the Life,

Right now it seems that many things in our world are untrustworthy.  Our society used to trust in media to inform us, education to enlighten us, government to protect us, the family to support us, and the Church to guide us toward you.  Over the generations that trust has degraded, even dissolved altogether.  And now we wonder if the vote counting process in this nation is fair, free, and trustworthy.  The reports of fraud and corruption are mounting and it can be hard to know whether the reports are truthful or not.  In the midst of all this distrust and upheaval, take us to the Truth in your Word.  Guide us to trust that your Name is True and your Truth will set us free.  Thank you for being our Way, our Truth, and our Life - especially when we realize the institutions and systems of this world are not trustworthy.  Thank you for the confidence we can have in you as we rely on you - not our own insight or understanding - and acknowledge you.  Make our paths towards you straight and smooth.  And as we know your Truth in our individual lives, may we also know what is Truth in the life of this nation.  Then guide us to the righteous response so that there can be abundant life, liberty, freedom, Truth, and justice for all.  In Jesus's name we pray, Amen. 

Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
    but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.  (Psalm 20:7 NIV)

"Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32 NIV)

"Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." (John 14:6 AMP)

"Trust in and rely confidently on the Lord with all your heart
And do not rely on your own insight or understanding.
6 In all your ways know and acknowledge and recognize Him,
And He will make your paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block your way]." 

(Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP)

November 12, 2020 Prayer - God's Chessboard

Omnipotent, Omnipresent, and Omniscient God,

We thank you and praise you for who you are and how you orchestrate the workings of this world.  We thank you that you have a plan for our futures - both for individuals and for this nation - like a master chess player who can see all moves coming.  We know you will not leave us or forsake us when we continue to seek you with all our heart.  In this world we can get truly tangled in our circumstances or the lies the enemy uses to deceive us from your Truth.  Guide us in all truths for your name's sake; lead us to the Rock that is higher than us - you whose thoughts and ways are higher than ours.  When we cannot see where you are taking us or the spiritual chess moves you are making, help us to trust your goodness and your promise to prosper us and to give us a hope and a future.  Help us to trust that when we don't dwell on the past but look to you, we will see the new things you are doing in our lives and in the life of this nation.  We know that you make ways where there seems to be only wasteland.  We know that you provide water in the desert and give drink to those you love.  We proclaim your praise because we know your plans are good.  So, help us to trust you as you guide this nation, guide our individual lives, and move the spiritual chess pieces as you battle the enemy of our souls.  In the strong name of Christ we pray, Amen.  

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11-13)

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.
See, I am doing a new thing!
    Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
    and streams in the wasteland.

The wild animals honor me, the jackals and the owls,
because I provide water in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland,
to give drink to my people, my chosen,
  the people I formed for myself
    that they may proclaim my praise.  (Isa. 43:19-21)

November 11, 2020 Prayer - Providers and Protectors

 
Jehovah Jireh, Our Provider,

Today we give thanks for those who have gone before us and have fought for us.  

We thank you for mothers who bravely gave birth to us, parents and grandparents who lovingly raised us, teachers who carefully guided us, and others who generously stewarded us as we were growing. We pray that their efforts to invest in future generations will be richly rewarded.  

We thank you for soldiers, police officers, and other first responders who have sacrificed family time, physical capabilities, mental strength, and even their lives in an effort to keep our nation free and safe. We pray your hand of blessing and your wings of protection be upon each military person and each first responder and their families and that their sacrifices will help to build a freer and safer world. 

We thank you for fathers and mothers in the Faith who have gone before us - fighting theological battles against heresy, physical battles against governmental or societal opposition, and spiritual battles in prayer to help to bring each of us into your Kingdom.  May their efforts to plant spiritual seeds be abundantly fruitful.

And we thank you that you have entrusted us, for such a time as this, to continue to fight for your will and your ways. Help us to not only pray but to act in ways that bring mercy, justice, and freedom in this nation and the world. Help us to walk humbly with you, our Good God, and to always rejoice and give thanks to you, our Provider and Protector.  

In the strong name of Christ we pray, Amen.

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." (1 Chron. 16:34) 

"God helped them as they fought. God handed the [enemies] and all their allies over to them, because they cried out to him during the battle. God answered their prayers because they trusted him." (1 Chron. 5:20)

"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

    And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
    and to walk humbly with your God." (Micah 6:8)

"Guard my life, for I am faithful to you;
    save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God; have mercy on me, Lord,
    for I call to you all day long." (Psalm 86:2-3)

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thes. 5:16-18)