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Volume 1 (April 27-May 10, 2019) of our special Holy Spirit Re-Launch study guide, as we count down the Omer toward Pentecost.

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Published by WVUMC, 2019-04-26 13:37:20

May 2019 Prayer and Study Guide Volume 1

Volume 1 (April 27-May 10, 2019) of our special Holy Spirit Re-Launch study guide, as we count down the Omer toward Pentecost.



© 2019 Caldwell Ministries.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publisher or in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 or under the terms of any license permitting limited copying issued by the Copyright Licensing Agency.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are taken from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®),
copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission.
All rights reserved.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. Counting of the Omer........................................................................................4
II. Schedule at a Glance............................................................................................ 5
III. Counting of the Omer Calendar...........................................................................7
IV. Daily Prayer & Study Guide
Day 43, APRIL 27, 2019: Matthew 5:6..................................................................9 Day 42, APRIL 28: Matthew 5:7.........................................................................12 Day 41, APRIL 29: Matthew 5:8.........................................................................15 Day 40, APRIL 30: Matthew 5:9.........................................................................18 Day 39, MAY 1: Matthew 5:10-12.......................................................................21 Day 38, MAY 2: Matthew 5:13...........................................................................24 Day 37, MAY 3: Matthew 5:14-16.......................................................................27 Day 36, MAY 4: Matthew 5:17-20.......................................................................30 Day 35, MAY 5: Matthew 5:21-26.......................................................................33 Day 34, MAY 6: Matthew 5:27-30.......................................................................36 Day 33, MAY 7: Matthew 5:31-32.......................................................................39 Day 32, MAY 8: Matthew 5:33-37.......................................................................42 Day 31, MAY 9: Matthew 5:38-42.......................................................................45 Day 30, MAY 10: Matthew 5:43-48.....................................................................48
V. Daily Power Confessions...................................................................................51
VI. Holy Spirit Re-Launch Expectations.................................................................52
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COUNTING OF THE OMER
You shall count for yourselves -- from the day after the Sabbath, from the day when you bring the Omer of the waving -- seven Sabbaths, they shall be complete. Until the day after the seventh Sabbath, you shall count, fifty days... (Leviticus 23:15-16.)
God instructed His people to count the days between Passover and the Feast of Pentecost (see Leviticus 23:16). This 50-day period is known as “Counting of the Omer,” which reminds us of the link between Passover and Pentecost, which celebrates the Giving of the Law in the Hebrew Scriptures (Torah) and the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. An "Omer" [OH-mer] is a unit of measurement for grain in ancient Israel. Counting the Omer began with the symbolic offering of an omer, or sheaf, of barley (i.e., "First Fruits") in the Temple and continued up until the day before an offering of wheat was brought to the Temple on the day of Pentecost or Shavuot [sha-voo-OAT]. Use the Omer “Count-Down Calendar” on page 13 below to assist in your celebration of this important “in between time.” Also, watch for special “Counting the Omer” instructions in the upcoming Prayer & Study Guides, beginning April 20/21, 2019.
THE FEAST OF PENTECOST “Shavuot”
The Feast of Pentecost (or the Feast of Weeks) celebrates the giving of the Torah (the first five books of the Bible), and the universal outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament. This feast is to be filled with joy and thanksgiving for God’s bountiful harvest blessings. During the celebration of Pentecost believers will bring the first fruits of any financial income since the Passover. Traditionally, this offering was the “the latter first fruit offering” of wheat and gave thanks for God’s continuing provision. The Church Family will offer its special latter first fruits monetary offerings (not your tithe) during the Pentecost Worship Celebration, Saturday, June 8, 2019, 6:00 p.m. (You may, of course, also give your offering via the Windsor app, at the computer kiosks in the KBC, or by mail.)
Also, it is tradition to eat dairy products during Pentecost because the law was compared to milk and honey. When the Israelites were awaiting the arrival of their new commandments and were unsure as to what their new dietary laws would be, they ate only dairy products and vegetables. Eating cheesecake and blintzes is a particular favorite during this feast. During this time, you may also choose to decorate your home with flowers and greenery, which represent the latter spring harvest and the Law as a “tree of life.”
“God’s Holy Days”
As our Church Family prepares to celebrate the Spring Feasts, consider scheduling the following days off from work. In Leviticus 23, God instructs the Israelites to “do no customary work” on specific days associated with the feasts because He considers them Holy days. The general interpretation of “no customary work” is taking the day off from your job or any activity that contributes to your income. Any work that is done in preparation of the feast is acceptable. The Lord understands if you have to work, but if you can, take the day off to enjoy the Lord and your family.
Remember, all Holy days begin at sundown the evening before the calendar date listed.
Holy Day Day off Saturday, April 27th (Day 7, Feast of Unleavened Bread)
Holy Day Feast of Pentecost Sundown, Saturday, June 8th thru Sundown, Sunday, June 9th
Then celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the LORD your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the LORD your God has given you. (Deuteronomy 16:10)
Day off Sunday, June 9th
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References:
A Family Guide to the Biblical Holidays by Robin Sampson & Linda Pierce The Messianic Church Arising by Dr. Robert Heidler
The Jewish Holidays: A Guide and Commentary by M. Strassfeld, 1985
A Family Guide to the Biblical Holidays by R. Sampson and L. Pierce, 2004 www.hebrew4christians.com
www. Jewishholidays.com
www. Judaism101.com
Feasts and Holidays of the Bible by Rose Publishing, 2008 http://therefinersfire.org
Christ in the Passover, by Moishe Rosen
SCHEDULE-AT-A-GLANCE
FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD WORSHIP CELEBRATION
Saturday, April 27, 2019, 6:00 p.m.
FEAST OF PENTECOST
Sundown, Saturday, June 8th, thru Sundown, Sunday, June 9th
FEAST OF PENTECOST WORSHIP CELEBRATION
Saturday, June 8, 2019, 6:00 p.m.
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MY “HOLY SPIRIT RE-LAUNCH” NOTES:
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HOW TO COUNT THE OMER
1. Each night gather to pray this prayer: "Blessed are You, O Lord our God, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us concerning the counting of the Omer."
2. Next, read or review the Bible verse(s) associated with each day. Take a few moments to discuss or to reflect (Lectio Divina).
3. Next, pray Jesus' "Model Prayer" ("Our Father...") together.
4. Finally, color in or mark out the appropriate day of the Omer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #43: (April 27, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We hunger and thirst...” As you exhale, whisper, “...for Your righteousness, O Lord.”
2. Scripture Reading:
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (Matthew 5:6, ESV)
For further consideration: Video: study.watch/NefeshBibleProject
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Holy Spirit
Heavenly Father, we thank You for saving us through the sacrifice of Your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. We thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to instruct, guide, teach and comfort us. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for empowering us to be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ and being God’s guarantee for the inheritance He promised. Because of You, this guarantee includes that we have been purchased to be His own people. Hallel YAH! Father God, we praise You, our Savior. Each day You carry us in Your arms. You are the God who saves, the Sovereign Lord who rescues us from death. We will sing to You, the One who rides across the ancient heavens; Your mighty voice thunders from the sky. We will tell everyone about Your power. Your majesty shines down on Israel; Your strength is mighty in the heavens. You are awesome in Your sanctuary!
Mighty God, we have not received a spirit that makes us fearful slaves; instead, we have received Your Spirit when You adopted us as Your children. We confess that the same Holy Spirit who resurrected Jesus from the dead now dwells within us. It is the Holy Spirit who gives life to our mortal bodies, just as He gave life to Christ and raised Him from the dead. We decree that You, Holy Spirit, are our Comforter and our Helper. You are Holy. We depend on You to remind us of everything Jesus taught while He lived on the earth. You are God’s power source, and You are the Teacher of all truth. We thank You for being God’s Representative in the earth, the One through whom God relates to all believers, the Producer of the Fruit of the Spirit and our Advocate. We love You, Holy Spirit, and thank You for working through us to perform miracles, signs and wonders so that people will experience the Kingdom of God. As a Church Family, we confess that we will not be filled with wine, but we will be filled with the Holy Spirit; singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among ourselves and making music to the Lord in our hearts.
Holy Spirit, continue to lead and guide our lives. As we study God’s Word, reveal the Kingdom of God to us and within us and help us to share the Kingdom in this dark world. Show us those areas in our personal lives that we need to get in order so that we will not bring You sorrow by the way we live. Help us to get rid of all bitterness, unforgiveness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, show us how to be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God has forgiven us through Christ Jesus.
Holy Spirit, show me which of the fruit of the Spirit that I have yet to cultivate and help me to mature in that area: _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
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Heavenly Father, forgive those who deny the existence or power of the Holy Spirit. Forgive those who have discouraged others from embracing the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Forgive us for not completely yielding control of our lives to the Holy Spirit. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Almighty God, the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it all belong to You. You are the God of gods and Lord of lords. You are the great God, the mighty and awesome God who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed. You alone are worthy of praise because You alone perform such great miracles. In the majestic Name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen!
Scripture References for the Written Text: Acts 1:8, Ephesians 1:14, Psalm 68:19-20,33-35, Romans 8:15, Romans 8:11, John 14:16, John 14:26, John 16:13, Ephesians 5:18-19, Ephesians 4:30-32, Matthew 6:13, Deuteronomy 10:14,17-21
4. Concepts to Consider:
As we continue to walk in this Passover and Resurrection Season, what do you need the Holy Spirit to “re-launch” in your life? Perhaps it’s a new hunger for His Word and His Presence. Perhaps you need a “re- launch” in your marriage or with your health. During this time of “counting the omer,” ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of your life and relationships that need to be “re-launched” with His Power. Let’s see what the Lord will do over the next 43 days as we count down to our Pentecost celebration!
“Hungering and thirsting for righteousness” is all about whetting our spiritual appetites by realizing our utter dependence upon our Creator (see: Psalm 39). Our “nephesh,” which can mean “being” or “throat” (often unfortunately translated in the Hebrew Scriptures as “soul”—see: Psalm 42), is alluded to here in Jesus’ famous sermon from the mount. As an outgrowth of being “poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3; aka: humility), we begin to recognize that we are not “self-made,” but rather wholly (and holy!) dependent on the life-sustaining Presence of His Holy Spirit.
5. Reflections:
1. Have there been times in your life when you may have “forgotten” God’s Presence? If so, when? What happened?
2. Set at least one calendar reminder today that will prompt you to pause, take a breath, and thank the Lord for His sustaining presence in your life. For what time(s) will you set this/these calendar reminder(s) today?
3. List at least two areas of your life that need to become more “hungry and thirsty” for God’s Presence, then offer them on the altar of your heart to the Lord.
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Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #42: (April 28, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “I will be merciful...” As you exhale, whisper, “...because You, O Lord, are merciful.”
2. Scripture Reading:
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. (Matthew 5:7, ESV)
For further consideration: Video: http://justice.video/BibleProject 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for the United State of America
Almighty Father, we thank You for blessing the United States of America with abundance and prosperity. Thank You for surrounding our nation with Your favor, grace, and mercy. Thank You for our military personnel who sacrifice greatly to protect our nation. God, You merely spoke and the heavens were created. You breathed the Word, and all the stars were born. You assigned the sea its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. We praise Your Name forever and ever, for You possess all wisdom and power. Lord, You are glorious and more majestic than the everlasting mountains. You sit on Your holy throne and reign above the nations. All the kings of the earth belong to You. You are highly honored everywhere.
Heavenly Father, let Your Kingdom come and Your will be done in our nation. Father, unless You build the house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless You protect our nation, guarding it with sentries will do no good. While many citizens may worship other god’s in our nation, we proclaim that Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, andthelife. Byfaith,wedeclarethatasJesusChristisliftedupinournation,allpeoplewilltobedrawntoHim. We decree that we live in the shelter of the Most High and we find rest in the shadow of You, the Almighty. God, You are our refuge, our place of safety. Lord of Heaven’s armies, You are our God and we will trust in You. Lord, we confess that no evil will come upon our nation; neither will any plague come near us. Your Word states that You have given Your angels charge over us to keep us in all our ways. We expect that You alone, will make us dwell in safety. Father, we expect Your Spirit to be poured out upon our nation. On today, the National Day of Prayer, we are expecting to receive Your Spirit abundantly. We declare that people in our nation will be set free today; for where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. Come, Holy Spirit, come!
Today, I commit to praying and interceding on behalf of our nation for the following:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________________ ____
Holy Spirit, unite the body of Christ to pray continually for our nation. Guide President Trump and our national leaders as they govern and remind each person that they are working together for the good of the nation and not for the advancement of self. Lord, strengthen them as they tackle the many issues that confront our nation. Help them to stay focused and patient. Give them creative ideas and strategies concerning the economy, environmental, educational, health, and social dilemmas of our nation. Holy Spirit, we ask that You would minister to our military personnel and encourage their families. Help those in our nation who are unemployed and those who need a financial breakthrough to remember God’s Word of promise to those who trust Him. Make clear to them opportunities for jobs, education and promotions. Holy Spirit, please knit all the families of
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our nation closer together. Empower mothers and fathers, whether married or single, to be good parents, providers, protectors, and leaders of their homes. Let Your love, peace, wisdom, and understanding saturate our families. Unify our communities and help us to love one another.
Merciful Father, we repent on behalf of our nation for our many sins. We acknowledge that our actions have created problems that only You can solve. Forgive us for all sin, including disobedience, rebellion, greed, arrogance, selfish ambition, hypocrisy, jealousy, hatred, violence, injustice, ageism, sexism, racism, and dissension. Father, forgive us for shedding innocent blood and denying Your power. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind all of us of those they need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, as a nation, help us not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
You are the Lord, our God, and there is no other. No one is holy like You. No one is besides You. There is not any rock like You. Lord, You are the King of kings and Lord of lords. You rule and reign forever. Now, unto You, the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 33:6-7, Daniel 2:20, Psalm 76:4, Psalm 47:9, Matthew 6:10, Psalm 127:1-2, John 14:6, John 12:32, Psalm 91:1-2,10-11, Acts 2:1-4, Matthew 6:13, I Samuel 2:2, Revelation 19:16, I Timothy 1:17
4. Concepts to Consider:
“Being merciful” carries with it the connotation of showing compassion toward others, even when they may not deserve it. In Ephesians 2:4-6 we hear the Apostle Paul affirming, “
5. Reflections:
1. Think back on a time when someone showed you compassion when you didn’t feel like you deserved it. Stop and thank God for the ministry of compassion that was shown to you in that moment.
2. Try doing an online search (biblegateway.com) in the English Standard Version (ESV) for the word “mercy.” How many times does the word appear in the Bible?
3. Next, try looking up the word “mercy” in the Mounce Reverse-Interlinear New Testament. Choose any verse in the search results. Click on the Greek word found under the word “mercy.” Once you’ve clicked the Greek word, a Greek Dictionary (Lexicon) entry will appear near the top, right side of your screen. What is the word for “mercy” in Greek?
What does the Dictionary entry tell you about “mercy”?
How might this entry inform the way you think about the use of “mercy” in the New Testament, and how might it affect your relationships, decisions, and interactions today?
great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved—and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” (ESV) Our ability to show compassion toward others extends from the compassion God has shown us. As we savor the resurrection of Jesus, let us endeavor, by His grace, to be ambassadors of God’s mercy to those around
But God, being rich in mercy, because of the
us.
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Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #41: (April 29, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Create in me...” As you exhale, whisper, “...a clean heart, O God.”
2. Scripture Reading:
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8, ESV)
For further consideration: Video: http://heart.video/BibleProject
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for People Who Have Not Accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord (Leader) and Savior (Forgiver)
Magnificent Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You for enlightening our hearts to say “yes” to You when You called us. We thank You for Your tender mercies and unfailing love. Lord, You are very great. We will praise You, Lord, with all that we are and we will never forget the good things You have done for us. You are the One who forgives all our sins, heals us from diseases, redeems us from death, and crowns us with love and tender mercies. We honor You as our Lord and Savior. Lord our God, Your majestic Name fills the earth. Your glory is higher than the heavens!
Heavenly Father, we declare that Your Word, as it is spoken, will move swiftly through the earth and save the lost. We confess that as the Gospel is shared, Your Word is operative in the lives of those persons who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord (Leader) and Savior (Forgiver). As people confess with their mouths, the Lord Jesus, and believe in their hearts that You raised Him from the dead, they will be saved. Father, we declare that they will know the Truth, and the Truth will set them free. As I confess my sins, today. I am confident that You are faithful and just to forgive me and will cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Lord, I submit to You, my spirit, soul, and body. In Jesus Christ, I have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
List the people that you know who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Ask the Holy Spirit for the wisdom to witness to them. Trust Him to give you the courage to approach them and the words to say to them. _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ ______
Eternal Father, we ask You to clear the way so that Your Gospel may be preached in every city, state, country, and continent. Since the harvest is plentiful, please send laborers to proclaim Your Word of salvation. Father, as Your Word goes forth, touch the hearts of the unsaved to receive it. Circumcise the heart of every man, woman, boy, and girl and draw them to You. Lord, surround them with the counsel of the Godly so that they may be washed in the water of Your Word; putting away the old man and putting on the new. Father, please give me the courage and boldness to witness to the unsaved. Holy Spirit, help me to live in such a way that the light of Christ shines in my private and public life.
Holy Father, forgive the unsaved for not acknowledging You or Your Son. Forgive them for disobedience, hatred, rebellion, murder, idolatry, homosexuality, greed, racism, adultery, fornication, injustice, violence, and rejection of Your Gospel. Please have mercy upon them and extend Your grace towards them. Lord, forgive
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us as a Church Family for not sharing Jesus and the Gospel with more people. Forgive me for being timid and reserved about one of the greatest miracles known to humankind. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us all of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us all not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Blessed Lord, You are the King of glory. You are the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. You are worthy to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 103:2-4, Psalm 8:1, Psalm 147:15, Romans 10:9, John 8:32, I John 1:9, Ephesians 1:7 NKJV, Matthew 9:37-38, Deuteronomy 30:6 NKJV, Ephesians 5:26, Colossians 3:10, Matthew 6:13, Psalm 24:10, Revelation 4:11
4. Concepts to Consider:
Being “pure of heart” hearkens back to Psalm 24:3-4, which states, “
and does not swear deceitfully." (ESV) Here we observe the progression of the one who earnestly seeks the Lord. He/she decides to “ascend,” i.e., make a move toward the Lord. Next, the earnest seeker desires to stand (unafraid and in dignity, as a human being, made in God’s image, to worship) in the Presence of the Lord. How can someone stand before the Lord with such confidence? Because that one treats other persons rightly. They do not seek to harm them (“clean hands”), nor do they harbor any ill will or animosity toward others in their thoughts and imaginations (a “pure heart”). Our right relationship with God is inextricably linked to our right relationship with others. This is why just a few verses later in Jesus’ sermon He will say, “So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother [or sister] has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:22-23, ESV)
5. Reflections:
1. “Purity of heart” is bigger than what goes on just between “me and God” alone. I can’t say I’m in good standing with the Lord if I haven’t done all within my power--with the help of God’s grace, and as is appropriate--to make things right in my relationship with others. What relationship(s) in your life need resolution and holy attention?
2. Ask the Lord to give you the Holy Spirit-infused power to forgive and release others.
a. What situations do you need to release into His grace?
b. Who do you need to release into His grace?
(Disclaimer: Do not stay in abusive relationships where you or someone you love is being psychologically, physically, or sexually brutalized. Call the police and/or the Texas Abuse Hotline (1-800-252-5400) if you ever feel you or someone you love is in immediate or imminent danger.)
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the
Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
shall stand in his holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
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Who shall ascend the hill of the LORD?
who does not lift up his [being] to what is
And who
false


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Counting Down the Omer, Day #40: (April 30, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Today, we seek Your peace...” As you exhale, whisper, “...and we will pursue it.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/PeaceBP 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Declaration for Pointe 2.3.4
LovingFather,wethankYouformanifestingYourKingdomonearththroughPointe2.3.4. ThankYouforthe wonderful board members, staff and diligent volunteers who maintain the operations of The Prayer Institute. Thank You for The Kingdom Builders’ Center - Phase I. Thank You for the educational opportunities offered through Neighborhood Centers and the Victory Preparatory Academy. Thank You for the entrepreneurial opportunities offered through The Entrepreneurial Learning Center and Office Works. Thank You for empowering our community financially through the Empowerment Community Development Federal Credit Union. We thank You for the Corinthian Pointe Plaza Business Parke. Thank You for using this commercial venture to bring employment into our community. Thank You for ABC Dental, Texas Children’s Pediatric Practice and TSO Optical. Thank You for Taco Bell, McDonald’s, CVS, Walgreens and Advance Auto Parts. Lord, thank You for Corinthian Pointe Residential Subdivision, Jean Hines Caldwell Elementary School, the YMCA, and Corinthian Village Independent Living Facility. Lord, we praise Your Name for You are good! We celebrate Your lovely Name with music. We know that Your greatness is greater than any other god. Lord, You do whatever pleases You throughout all heaven and earth and on the seas and in the depths. We bless Your wonderful Name!
Mighty Father, we confess that every good and perfect gift, including all entities of Pointe 2.3.4., comes from You. We declare that Corinthian Pointe Residential Subdivision, Corinthian Pointe Plaza Business Parke, Jean Hines Caldwell Elementary School, the YMCA, Corinthian Village Independent Living Facility and The Kingdom Builders’ Center are blessings to the Houston community. We declare that The Kingdom Builders’ Center is a destination point for worship, recreation, education, entertainment and relaxation. We thank You that our children have a safe and healthy place to grow in Your Word and grace. We thank You for the Victory Preparatory Academy where the youth and young adults of this community are receiving an excellent education. We thank You for blessing the children in our community through the Neighborhood Centers program. Thank You for providing a safe place where our youth are growing and maturing in the Godly environment of the Youth Hangtime area. Thank You for The Entrepreneurial Learning Center, Office Works, the Empowerment Community Development Federal Credit Union, Project Church and M.D. Anderson. We declare that Your vision for The Prayer Institute will continue to be revealed in the hearts and minds of its leaders and that they will faithfully carry it out according to Your will. We decree that every need will be met according to Your riches in glory. Lord, we are so grateful for the opportunity You have given us to celebrate life together as a Church Family through the manifestation of Pointe 2.3.4. You are truly great and greatly to be praised!
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called [the children] of God.”
(Matthew 5:9, ESV)
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List what you enjoy most about Pointe 2.3.4. and give thanks to God for it:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ _____________________________________
Holy Spirit, please surround each business entity with favor. Please continue to make their names great in the land and cause them to be among the first choice of venues for business, community and social gatherings. Holy Spirit, please continue to fill the business leaders and their employees with wisdom, discernment and creativity as they continue to move forward. Show them how to reach clients throughout the city of Houston and continue to supply all of their needs according to Your glorious riches by Christ Jesus. Holy Spirit, we ask that You would give creative ideas to the business leaders and show them how they can reach more clients in the community. Help them to always remain current on industry trends and developments. Remind them to always provide first class, Godly customer service to help encourage repeat customers. Loving Father, we
thank You for bringing forth all additional resources necessary for continual growth and development of Pointe 2.3.4.
MercifulFather,forgivethebusinessandorganizationalleadersforanysinstheyhavecommitted. Forgiveus all for any acts of rebellion and disobedience concerning this project. Forgive those in our Church Family for being ungrateful and unappreciative of what You are doing through our church. Forgive those of us for acting spoiled and arrogant. Forgive those for always wanting more and not counting their blessings. Father, forgive those of us for not frequenting the businesses within Pointe 2.3.4. Forgive those for taking these services and opportunities for granted. Forgive them if they have not sought Your divine purpose and plan for their businesses. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us all of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us all not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Triumphant Lord, all glory belongs to You, who alone are God. All glory, majesty, power and authority are Yours before all time and in the present and beyond all time! In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 135:3,5-6, James 1:17, Psalm 100:4, Psalm 5:12, Genesis 12:2, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:13, Jude 25
4. Concepts to Consider:
In the context of Jesus’ sermon, “peacemaking” may be understood in the following ways. 1. Since “peacemakers” is a plural noun it can be construed that peacemaking is not a task that can generally be accomplished alone. Effective peace-making is a Body of Christ (team) effort. 2. Also, “peacemaking” is an active and positive life- posture that stands ready to choose and work toward peace instead of the human default positions of anger, strife, and victimization. You see, “peace” is not merely the absence of conflict, it is a pattern of decision-making that embraces resolution, wholeness, healing, and restoration as a way of life. Those who reflect God’s character best (i.e., “children of God”), do so when they stop, breathe, pray, consider, and then act in ways that imitate Jesus’ actions; for, “
.” (Ephesians 2:14, ESV)
5. Reflections:
1. Are there areas in your life that need a little peace? If so, list them below. How can you begin to be a peacemaker in the situation? What small steps can you take today? Who can you call on to assist you in your peace-making efforts?
He Himself is our peace, Who has made us both one and has broken down in His flesh the dividing
wall of hostility
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Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #39: (May 1, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Today, we seek Your peace...” As you exhale, whisper, “...and we will pursue it.”
2. Scripture Reading:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12, ESV)
For further consideration: Open Doors report on the Persecuted Church: http://b.link/OpenDoors2019 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Declaration of Restoration of the American Family
Heavenly Father, our souls honor You. Thank You for our family relationships. We thank You for Your peace umpiring our familial relationships and interactions. Lord, we thank You for fulfilling Your plans and purposes in our lives and for surrounding us with favor like a shield. Thank You for blessing us continually with Your loving-kindness and tender mercies. Lord, Your mercy endures forever. You are great and Your power is absolute. Your understanding is beyond comprehension. We love You and extol Your Holy Name. Out of the mouths of babes and infants, You have ordained strength. What are mere mortals that You should think of them, human beings that You should care for them?
Omnipotent Father, we rebuke every enemy that is coming against American families including: domestic violence, divorce, adultery, incest, selfishness, poor communication and broken homes. For the first time in recorded history, there are now more single adults than married adults. We understand that not all are called to be married, but we rebuke the spirits of pride, stubbornness, fear and greed that prevent those who are supposed to be married from fulfilling their purpose. Lord, You told Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply; to fill and subdue the earth and to have dominion. Lord, it is Your will that the people created in Your image be in charge here and not the forces of darkness. We cancel the assignment of the enemy against the wombs of married women causing them to be barren. Children will obey their parents because they belong to the Lord and this is the right thing for them to do. They will honor their fathers and mothers so that things will be well for them and they will have a long life on the earth. Fathers will no longer provoke their children to anger by the way they treat them, but they will bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from You, Lord.
List those families that you know are in trouble. Now ask the Holy Spirit how you can pray for them:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________
Holy Spirit, help us, as a nation, to make the family a priority again. Help parents to stop being so focused on material items, that they fail to spend time with their children and impart Godly self-esteem and emotional stability into them. Remind us that God’s Word should be our guide and not the norms and customs of the world.
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Help our parents to stop allowing the television, internet or video games to raise their children, but instead to spend time with their children and impart Godly values and wisdom into them so that when they have grown up, they will not depart from Your ways. Help our married couples to honor one another and not take each other for granted. Keep the lines of communication open in these marriage so that the marriage bed will not be defiled. Help our married couples to honor their marriage vows and not be so quick to look for a way out when things get difficult.
Merciful Father, please forgive our American families for sin. Forgive us for allowing our jobs to be a greater priority than our families. Forgive us for taking our loved ones for granted. Forgive us for not praying for our family members consistently. Forgive us for strife, anger, envy, jealousy, adultery and for verbal or physical abuse within our homes. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us all of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our families not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Sovereign Lord, You are King! You are robed in majesty and armed with strength. The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. Your throne has stood from time immemorial. You are from the everlasting past. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 5:12, Psalm 51:1 NKJV, Psalm 136:1, Psalm 147:5, Psalm 145:1, Psalm 8:2-4, Ephesians 6:12, Ephesians 6:11, I Corinthians 7:7, Genesis 1:28, Ephesians 5:21, Ephesians 6:1-4, Proverbs 22:6, Hebrews 13:4, Matthew 6:13, Psalm 93:1-2
4. Concepts to Consider:
For obvious reasons the subject of persecution is not a popular one, but it is an ever-present reality for many of our sisters and brothers in Christ around the world. As the above report from the ministry Open Doors indicates, “1 in 9 Christians experience high levels of persecution worldwide,” which is about 245 million followers of Jesus who are experiencing these elevated levels of persecution in their home countries. May this information inform your fervent, strategic prayers and make us keenly aware of our need to seek justice, act compassionately, and “do good to everyone... especially to those of the family of faith.” (Galatians 6:10, ESV)
5. Reflections:
1. As you have a moment today, flip through the Open Door report above. Ask the Holy Spirit to lift up a country and/orpeoplegroupforwhichyoufeelledtopray. Forwhomdidyoufeelledtopray?Setacalendar reminder for the next three days that prompts you to stop and prayer for them.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the
Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #38: (May 2, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “I am the salt...” As you exhale, whisper, “...of the earth.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/EarthSalt 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Our Pastors and Their Families
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the men and women You have appointed as our Pastors. Thank You for blessing our Pastors with their leadership and wisdom. Thank You for leading, directing, and protecting their families. Lord, You are our Good Shepherd, our High Priest. You are a great God and a great King above all gods. You hold in Your hands the depths of the earth and the mightiest mountains. The sea belongs to You, for You made it. Your hands formed the dry land, too. Today, we bow down and worship You. We kneel before You and acknowledge You as our maker. You are our God and we are the people that You watch over and have taken under Your care.
Almighty Father, Your Word says that those who fear You and delight in obeying Your commands will be joyful. You promised that their children will be successful everywhere. We declare that the descendants of our Pastors are mighty on earth and blessed because they are the generation of Godly people. We confess that our Pastors are wealthy and their good deeds will last forever. We decree that their peace is great and their composure is undisturbed. Our Pastors’ families experience the Kingdom of God here on earth; people see their good works and glorify You, our Father in Heaven. Our Pastors obey Your commands, therefore, their families are blessed in the city and in the fields. They are blessed when they come in and when they go out. Lord, we expect that You will continue to cause their enemies who rise against them one way to be defeated and flee seven ways. Lord, it is our expectation that You will command Your blessing upon their storehouses and in all that they set their hands to do and You will bless them in the land. We confess that our Pastors and their families are the head and not the tail; they are above only and not beneath. We declare that You, Father, will perfect, establish, strengthen and settle our Pastors and their families.
Holy Spirit, show me how to pray specifically for my Pastors and their families:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ ______________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Faithful Father, we joyfully lift up the families of our Pastors. Holy Spirit, we ask You to fill their homes with Your gentleness, peace, joy, and Godly order. We lift up their marriages and we ask You to bless them psychologically, emotionally and sexually. Bless their children to mature academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually. Lord, strengthen and encourage those families who feel overwhelmed by the ministry. Lord, we ask
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good
for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet.”
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(Matthew 5:13, ESV)


that You protect our Pastors and their families from the onslaughts of the devil and the disrespect of people. Please help them to maintain balance in their public and private lives.
Merciful Father, forgive us for not being steadfast in praying for our Pastors and their families. Forgive those in our Church Family for speaking ill against our Pastors and rebelling against their teachings. Forgive those who gossip, murmur, complain, and whine. Please forgive our Pastors and their families for any acts of sinfulness including: anger, wrath, envy, jealousy, or dissension. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our Pastors and their families to forgive each other and other people, and please help them to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our Pastors and their families not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Triumphant King, blessing and honor and glory and power belong to You, the One sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text (NKJV & NLT): John 10:11, Hebrews 3:1, Psalm 95:3-7, Psalm 112:1-3, Isaiah 54:13 AMP, Matthew 5:16, Deuteronomy 28:3-8,13, I Peter 5:10, Galatians 5:19-21, Matthew 6:13, Revelation 5:13
4. Concepts to Consider:
Salt in ancient Israel was often used for lining ovens and as a soil enhancer because of its high level of magnesium content. Even today, we sometimes enhance our garden soil with Epsom® salt, which contains magnesium (see: http://b.link/EpsomRoses). Given this context, Jesus seems to be indicating that our job as His followers is to “add value” to the world and lives around us. We’re to be “ignition points” for the fire of Holy Spirit to spread around us and create oases of shalom. And we are to enhance and facilitate growth around us, as well. We can’t simply ascribetoachecklistofreligiousandpoliticalbeliefsandrightlyclaimthatweareaChristian. “Faithwithoutworks is dead” (James 2:20).
5. Reflections:
1. If you can, go get about a 1/4 teaspoon of table salt, OR a bit of Epsom® salt. 1. Put some of the salt into the palms of your hands. 2. For a few seconds rub the salt between the palms of your hands. What does it feel like? 3. Open your hands and smell the salt. What does it smell like? 4. Taste a tiny bit of the salt. What does it taste like?
2. Jesus said that living the kingdom life is like having the characteristics of “salt.” Think about it. How do others experience you when they are with you? What do you “feel” like? “smell” like? “taste” like? Do people leave your presence encouraged and re-kindled? How can you work with other “salt and light” folks (other believers) to bring encouragement and re-kindled hope for those around you?
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the
Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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26


Counting Down the Omer, Day #37: (May 3, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We reflect...” As you exhale, whisper, “...Your light, Jesus.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://choir.church/Siyahamba (“We are Marching in the Light of God”) 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Declaration of Miracles for Our Windsor Village Church Family
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the Windsor Village Church Family. We thank You for manifesting Your mighty miracles throughout our congregation. We thank You for salvation, which is the greatest miracle of all. Thank You for blessing us with Your presence. You are our God; we earnestly search for You. Our souls thirst for You; our bodies long for You in this parched and weary land where there is no water. Lord, we have seen You in Your sanctuary and gazed upon Your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how we praise You! We will praise You as long as we live; we will lift up our hands to You in prayer. You are more satisfying than the richest feast and we will praise You with songs of joy.
Awesome Father, according to Your own will, You ministered with signs and wonders, various miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we expect miracles to manifest during all of our worship celebrations. Lord Jesus, as You performed so many miracles during Your ministry, we rejoice that You said that we would do greater works than You did because You were going to the Father and were sending the Holy Spirit. As a congregation, we confess that we will move to the “greater things.” Lord, just as You turned water into wine, spoke and healed the ruler’s daughter and the woman with the issue of blood, touched the casket and the dead man rose, called Lazarus from the dead, and cast the demons out of Legion; so we expect to have miraculous encounters with You in our public and private lives. We decree that Your marvelous works will follow the Windsor Village Church Family so that people will see Your glory in our lives and confess Jesus Christ, as their Lord and redeemer.
Father, I thank You for performing the following miracles in my personal life. List them and begin to praise God: _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________ ______
Holy Spirit, have Your perfect way during our worship celebrations, children and youth worship celebrations, Bible study classes and ministry meetings so that miracles, signs and wonders can flow freely. Stir up the gift of faith within each pastor, leader, member, ministry volunteer, and visitor to expect great manifestations of Your power, not only during the worship experience, but every day of their lives. Lord, allow us to have personal
“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 a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine
before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
(Matthew 5:14-16, ESV)
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and direct access to Your glory so we will proclaim as the Samaritan woman, “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did!” Holy Spirit, empower us so that we are effective witnesses of Jesus Christ.
Merciful Father, forgive those people who have doubted Your Word and works. Forgive those for operating in fear and unbelief. Forgive those who have not taken the time to say “thank you” for the miraculous works You have done in their lives. Forgive all of us for not comprehending with all the saints the breadth, length, depth, height, and love of Christ which passes all understanding and knowledge. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us all of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us all not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Sovereign Lord, You are Holy, Holy, Holy. You are the God who is, who was, and who is to come. You are the Almighty. You are the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. You are the Eternal King, the Unseen One who will never die; You alone are God. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 63:1-5, Hebrews 2:4, John 14:12, John 2:1-11, Matthew 9:18-26, Luke 7:14-15, John 11:43-44, Mark 5:9-13, Ephesians 3:18-19, Matthew 6:13, Revelation 4:8, Revelation 1:8, I Timothy 1:17
4. Concepts to Consider:
WearethelightoftheworldbecauseJesusisthelightoftheworld(John8:12). Ithasalwaysbeenthecallof the people of God to be the conduits of His re-creating character and restorative heart out among all the peoples of the earth. In Exodus 19:6 the Lord says to the people of Israel, “
I
5. Reflections:
1. If you can, light a candle in a dim or darkened room. Notice how the light--even though it’s small--can improve your field of vision and provide a bit of warmth and beauty. Next, imagine you are sitting in the Presence of “the Light of the World/Jesus.” Take a deep, cleansing breath. Choose one or two of the Biblical passages featured in today’s “Scripture Reading” and/or “Concepts to Consider” and use them to create a prayer. If you’ve taken Prayer 101, use the “six-sections” model to write a prayer. If this process is new to you then simply insert personal pronouns into the Scriptures and pray them back to the Lord. (e.g., “The Lord has called me in righteousness; The Lord will hold my hand and keep me...”)
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a
meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
...you shall be My treasured possession
among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
And again in the Prophet of Isaiah 42:5-7 we hear God saying to His people, “Thus says God, the LORD,
who
created the heavens and stretched them out,
who spread out the earth and what comes from it,
who gives
breath to the people on it
and spirit to those who walk in it:
I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness;
will take you by the hand and keep you;
I will give you as a covenant for the people,
a light for the nations, t
o
open the eyes that are blind,
to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon,
from the prison those who sit in
darkness.” As gentile followers of Jesus we are grafted-in extensions of the First People of God. And as such, we are still called to carry His light, truth, and restoring love into the darkness of the world around us (Revelation 1:6). If we are worried about the darkness in our world today, then let’s make sure that the candle we’re carrying
looks and smells like Jesus! ☺
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #36: (May 4, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Our righteousness depends...” As you exhale, whisper, “...on You, our Living Torah.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/MBrownTorah 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Caregivers of Persons with Special Needs
Blessed Father, we thank You for those within the Body of Christ who care for persons with special needs. Thank You for the grace You give them to remain faithful to those they care for day in and day out. Thank You Lord for the shining example of unselfish love and mercy they are to all who have the privilege of knowing them. Father, we give You thanks with all our hearts. We will sing Your praises before the gods. We bow before Your holy Temple as we worship. We praise Your Name for Your unfailing love and faithfulness. Your promises are backed by all the honor of Your Name. As soon as we pray, You answer us, encouraging us and giving us strength. Though You are great, You care for the humble, but You keep Your distance from the proud. We exalt You, Lord! There is truly no other god worthy of our total praise but You!
Heavenly Father, those who care for persons with special needs, whether it be a family member or someone they have been hired to look after, hold a special place within Your Kingdom. We, the Body of Christ, declare that Your joy is their strength. They are able to face the demands of caring for persons with special needs by the power of the Holy Spirit who equips and enables them each day. Lord, we confess that when they face times of stress and frustration, You will comfort them as a mother comforts her child, and they will be comforted. We decree that they have the wisdom and compassion to encourage those they care for and that they will inspire them with hope through the love they show them. Certain aspects of their daily tasks may be unpleasant, but we believe that the joy of Your salvation is restored to them and they are willing to obey You. We declare that in everything they do for those they care for, they do it all for Your glory.
List any caregivers to persons with special needs that you know and pray for them by name today:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Holy Spirit, we ask that You help the caregivers within our Church Family to be wise about taking care of themselves so that they will be prepared to meet the needs of those they must care for. Remind them that their
“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the [Torah] until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the
scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
(Matthew 5:17-20, ESV)
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body is Your temple, the place where You, the Spirit who was given to them by God, lives. Help them to get proper rest and nutrition for their own well-being. Show them how to stay consistent in the study of Your Word, for it is a lamp to guide their feet and a light for their path. May they never be too prideful or stubborn to receive help from others when they need it. Keep them humble and help them to be fully aware of their personal limitations. Teach them to depend upon You to do what they cannot do, for themselves and for those they care for. Open new doors of opportunity to help them gain access to resources, information, and equipment that they need to give quality care to those in their charge. Touch the hearts of their family members and friends to recognize when they need a break, and to be unselfish and cooperative when they give assistance. Let our caregivers know that they are not alone, but that You are with them.
Merciful Father, forgive our caregivers for any sins they have committed, including complaining, murmuring, lying, anger, wrath, selfishness, and rebellion. Forgive those who have slacked in their caregiving responsibilities. Forgive those who have unforgiveness and resentment in their hearts. Forgive those who have not kept their word to help our caregivers. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that You have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our caregivers of all those they need to forgive and help them to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our caregivers not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Royal King, salvation and glory and power belong to You. You are the Lord our God; the Almighty who reigns. True wisdom and power are found in You. Counsel and understanding are Yours. You are a Father to the fatherless, defender of widows. This is who You are, and Your dwelling is holy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 138:1-3,6, Nehemiah 8:10, Isaiah 66;13 NKJV, Psalm 51:12, I Corinthians 10:31, I Corinthians 6:19, Psalm 119:105, Matthew 6:13, Revelation 19:1,6, Job 12:13, Psalm 68:5
4. Concepts to Consider:
The opening sentence for the Gospel of John tells us that Jesus is our “Living Torah” (John 1:1). This means that He is the walking, talking, breathing embodiment of what God meant when He gave the people called Israel His instructions and teachings (aka, “the Torah” or “the Law”) on Mt. Sinai. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is setting out His Torah agenda. In essence He’s indicating that “fulfilling the law” means to infuse all the “thou shalts” and “thou shalt nots” in the Torah with His life. He’s saying, “Watch what I do. Watch what I say. Watch how I do it all. Then, go and do likewise! Love. Pray. Give. Serve. And oh, by the way, My Spirit will be with you as you go! This is how you live Torah, now.”
5. Reflections:
1. What is the difference between thinking the Torah is “dead” and believing it is alive in Jesus and in the church?
2. How can we live the heart and Spirit of Torah rather than “the letter?”
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the
Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #35: (May 5, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We will release...” As you exhale, whisper, “...our anger to You.”
2. Scripture Reading:
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother [or sister] has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother [or sister], and then come and
offer your gift.
Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until
you have paid the last penny.”
(Matthew 5:21-26, ESV)
For further consideration: Video: http://anger.social/JesusMatthew 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Protection for Our Children and Youth
Righteous Father, we are so grateful that You are all-seeing and all-knowing. You have Your eye on each and every person on this earth, including our children and youth. Thank You for faithfully watching over them every day. We thank You for keeping Your angels stationed around them day and night. Thank You, Lord, for guarding their lives in the face of seen and unseen dangers. Father, we give You glory. You are in Your holy Temple, yet You still rule from heaven. You watch everyone closely, examining every person on earth. We lift our hands and worship You, for You Yourself watch over our children and youth. You stand beside them as their protective shade. All praises to You, our Father and our God!
Awesome Father, when our children and youth are at home, You are there. When they are in school, You are there. Wherever they go, You are there. We believe in the power of Your Word, so we commit ourselves to declaring blessings over our children and youth every day. In the Name of Jesus, we rebuke every foul plot of the enemy to harass, bully, injure, harm, or kidnap our children and youth. The blood of Jesus covers them and guards their steps. We declare that our children and youth live in the shelter of the Most High, and they find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. You alone are their refuge and their place of safety. You are their God, and they trust You. Lord, we expect You to rescue them from every trap (drugs, alcohol, crime, and abuse), and protect them from deadly disease. You promised that You will cover them with Your feathers. You will shelter them with Your wings. These promises are their armor and their protection.
Holy Spirit, help parents to act responsibly when it comes to the welfare of their children. Keep them from being distracted by work, bills, relationships, and other issues. Help them to be open to correction and instruction if they are lacking in good, balanced parenting skills. Lord, help us all to be shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves in the handling of our children and youth. Give us the courage to take action when we see warning signs
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of impending danger around them. Help us to come together in our communities to cover those children who are runaways and castaways. Empower our law enforcement officers, social workers, attorneys, child advocates, and court judges with the ability to bring to justice those who perpetrate crimes against children and youth. Bring strong conviction upon the hearts of those who have offended our children and youth, and bring them to the point of repentance and deliverance so that they can receive the grace and redemption that Jesus made possible for all mankind.
List the names of any children and youth who are or may be in danger and pray for them. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can be of help: _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ ______________________________
Blessed Father, forgive us for our sins, especially those we have committed against our children and youth. Forgivethosewhodiscourageanddemeanourchildrenandyouth. Forgivethosewhorefusetodotheirpart to protect our children and youth. Forgive those parents and guardians who refuse to seek help for their children when they are spiraling out of control. Forgive those in the Church who judge and ostracize our children and youth instead of seeking to understand them and showing them love. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that You have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us of all those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us all not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Magnificent Father, no one is holy like You! There is no one besides You. There is no rock like our God. You are the Lord, the Mighty One, who has spoken and summoned all humanity from where the sun rises to where it sets. From Mount Zion, the perfection of beauty, You shine in glorious radiance. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 11:4, Psalm 121:5, Psalm 91:1-4, Matthew 10:16, Matthew 6:13, I Samuel 2:2, Psalm 50:1-2
4. Concepts to Consider:
At the core of Jesus’ teaching on anger and reconciliation is the admonishment to stop and examine the self. Where does our anger come from? What’s driving our responses to people and situations around us? Is it our own fears, anxieties, or hang ups? Or is there something to be genuinely angry about that needs to be met with a compassionate tone in love and truth? We can, with God’s help, be angry and not sin (Ephesians 4:26). We can be angry and not hate. We can be angry and not wish someone dead. Jesus was angry with the teachers of the Torah who had steered so many people away from understanding that they too were worthy of experiencing the love and joy of their Creator, even if they hadn’t met some arbitrary standard of traditional religiosity (see: Matthew 23:1-11). The key is not to allow anger to get lodged in our thoughts. Anger is dangerous and corrosive. It may be natural, but unless it is tamed and tempered by the love of Jesus it can become a destructive force that can take root (Hebrews 12:15) and rot the Godly fruit in our lives.
5. Reflections:
1. If I’m honest with myself, my general level of anger right now is...
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2. Take a few moments right now to breathe. Next, ask the Lord to reveal to you what’s behind your anger? Fear? Doubt? Anxiety? List those things:
3. Finally, offer up your level of anger to Jesus. Picture yourself handing the reasons for your anger to Him. Say, “Jesus, You are my defender in Whom I put my trust.” Leave the anger with Him to manager. Come back to this altar as often as you need to today.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #34 (May 6, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We dedicate our eyes...” As you exhale, whisper, “...to Your service.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/W8ofSin 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Students Taking Final Exams
Majestic Father, we thank You for our students who are preparing for Final Exams. Thank You for crowning each of them with wisdom and honor. Thank You for the educators who have a genuine interest in seeing our children and youth succeed. O God, You are our God; we earnestly search for You. Our souls thirst for You; our bodies long for You in this parched and weary land where there is no water. We have seen You in Your sanctuary and gazed upon Your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how we praise You! We will praise You as long as we live. We will lift up our hands to You in prayer. You satisfy us more than the richest feast. With songs of joy will we praise You.
Royal Father, we confess that our students are well versed in every area of learning; gifted with knowledge and good judgment. We declare that just as You anointed Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego with an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom, that You will anoint our students to excel in their academics and to conquer their Final Exams. We decree that our students understand the value of knowledge; they understand that wisdom is more profitable than silver and her wages are better than gold. We confess that they will not be anxious about these tests, but they will pray and tell You what they need. They will thank You for all that You have done for them; then they will experience Your peace which exceeds anything they can understand. We declare that our students can do everything through Christ, including excelling on these Final Exams, because You give them strength. We expect that as they study and apply themselves to their academics, that Holy Spirit, You will bring all things to their remembrance when they sit down to begin their Final Exams. We decree that our students are the head and not the tail; they will always be on top and will never be at the bottom academically.
List the names of students who are taking Final Exams. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can support them: _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ ______________________________
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you
lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.”
(Matthew 5:27-30, ESV)
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Holy Spirit, please help our students to hunger and thirst after knowledge. Help them to shed every false label, expectation and preconceived notion that society has placed upon them. Help them to see themselves as more than conquerors in every aspect of their lives. Holy Spirit, please help our parents and guardians to understand how important it is for them to have an active role in their child’s education. Show them how to partner with their student’s teachers to encourage and help their child to learn. Lead and guide our students to scholarship and grant opportunities to help pay for their educational expenses. Please open new revenue streams for those parents who are sending their children to college.
Loving Father, forgive the sins of our educators and students. Forgive us, as parents and guardians, for being negligent in teaching our students to first reverence You which is the beginning of wisdom. Forgive those of us for sacrificing our students to excessive television, video games, music and to the ways and customs of the world. Forgive those for devaluing the worth of teachers and education. Forgive us all for not being more insistent on quality education in our school systems. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our students of those they need to forgive and help them to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our students not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Awesome Lord, Your right hand is glorious in power. Your right hand smashes the enemy. In the greatness of Your majesty, You overthrow those who rise against You. You unleash Your blazing fury; it consumes them like straw. Who is like You among the gods, glorious in holiness, awesome in splendor, performing great wonders? You are God alone! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 63:1-5, Daniel 1:4,17, Proverbs 3:14, Philippians 4:6-7,Philippians 4:13, John 14:26, Deuteronomy 28:13, Matthew 5:6, Romans 8:37, Proverb 9:10, Exodus 15:6-7, Exodus 15:11
4. Concepts to Consider:
Lust. Insidious. Addictive. Lust for sex, power, ease, money, etc. The truth is, the ancient world of Jesus was no less fraught with sexual issues than ours today. As a matter of fact, worship of some of the Roman deities included sexual behavior (e.g., Pan). Jesus in the passage is addressing more than the physical acts. He is also more deeply addressing the heart of lust. Like anger, what is the seedbed of our lust? Where does is come from? Is sexual (or other types) of lust used as a drug to numb us from the other pressures of life? Is it borne of frustrations and unhealthy appetites? If we’re honest, all of us have a seed of lust for something or someone hiding in our imaginations. Lust is at its heart an “out-of-bounds” desire. Because sex, power, rest, and money IN THEIR PROPER CONTEXTS (i.e., sex in marriage, power with accountability, rest as Sabbath, money tempered through tithing) are all good things, but sex, power, rest, and money sought OUTSIDE of the Biblical boundaries will always land us in circumstances we wish we could reverse. Jesus, in the passage from Matthew, is trying to “head us off at the pass” and protect us from ourselves. The question is, are we willing to allow Him to heal our broken perspectives so that we are set free from “the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, the pride of possession”
(1 John 2:16) so that we can serve and walk in His joy? 5. Reflections:
1. What are the differences between love and lust?
2. List any areas of lust you struggle with:
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3. Lift these areas up to the LORD right now in prayer. Seek the help you need to overcome your lusts from a qualified Christian counselor, support group (e.g., https://slaafws.org/; http://www.spenders.org/, etc.) and/or trusted Spiritual Leader.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #33 (May 7, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We can be faithful...” As you exhale, whisper, “...because You are faithful.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://scripture.live/HoseaAdultery 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Our Graduates
Gracious Father, we thank You for our graduates. Thank You for being the source of all wisdom. Thank You for the plans that You have for each of their lives; plans for good and not evil, so that they will each have a future and a hope. We give thanks to You, Lord. We call upon Your Name and make Your Name known among the people. We will sing psalms to You, Lord, and talk about all of Your wondrous works.
Blessed Father, we declare that our graduates will not turn away from Your Word. They will meditate on it day and night so that they will be successful in everything they do. As they continue their education or enter the job market, we confess that they will trust in You with all their hearts and not depend on their own understanding. They will seek Your will in all they do, so that You will direct their paths. Lord, many of our youth are leaving home for the first time. We declare that they have been taught to choose the right path, so now that they are older, they will remain on that path. They will choose Christ over culture and holiness over worldliness. Godly wisdom will lead and guide each graduate so that in all they do, they will not gain the world and lose their souls. We expect favor to surround each of our graduates as they enter this new phase in life.
List the names of those persons you know who are graduating. Now ask the Holy Spirit how you should intercede for them: _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________ ______________________________
Loving Father, please help our graduates to surround themselves with like-minded individuals. Holy Spirit, please remind them that the decisions they make today will have an impact on their future. Open doors for them that no man can shut. Help them to identify and take advantage of scholarships, grants, internship opportunities and job leads. As they begin this new season in their lives, remind them to continually seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously so that the Father will provide them with all that they need.
Merciful Father, please forgive our graduates for any acts of sinfulness that they have committed. Forgive them if they have made poor decisions during their time in high school or college that is now limiting their future. Forgive them for any illicit, illegal or inappropriate behavior that they engaged in while they were in school. Forgive those who have disrespected their parents, teachers, friends or themselves. As for me Holy Spirit,
“It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and
whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
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(Matthew 5:31-32, ESV)


forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our graduates of those they need to forgive and help them to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, please help our graduates not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Triumphant King, You are the Lord, our Redeemer and Creator. You are the Lord who made all things. You alone stretched out the heavens. You made the earth and everything in it by Yourself. You reign forever! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Jeremiah 29:11, I Chronicles 16:8-9, Joshua 1:7-8, Proverbs 3:5-6, Proverbs 22:6, Mark 8:36, Psalm 5:12, Matthew 6:33, Matthew 6:13, Isaiah 44:24
4. Concepts to Consider:
Jesus does something revolutionary here in the Matthew text: HE DOESN’T BLAME THE WOMAN! In His ancient context women were almost always vilified as the ones who seduced poor innocent men to go astray. Here Jesus puts the onus equally on both parties. He uses dramatic language to emphasize the point that marriage (and wives) should not be cast aside for trivial reasons. Since women had little protection outside of marriage or their families of origin, Jesus once again emphasizes the “posture of the heart,” and challenges that status quo that allowed divorce “on a whim” in ancient Jewish and Roman society. In the broader context of this passage of Scripture we’ve seen the progression from the admonition to “be salt and light” on to how one demonstrates their Jesus-following “saltiness” and “light” through submitting anger, lust, and the trivializing of marriage and women to the heart of God that desires wholeness and restoration for all. Our God is in the re-creating business! Hallelujah!
5. Reflections:
1. Have you ever “trivialized” (belittled; under esteemed; thought less of) a person or group of people? If so, who? And why?
2. Lift this person (or these people) to the Lord in prayer. Ask Him to help you see them as equally loved by God and made in His image.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister
to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #32 (May 8, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Today we have integrity...” As you exhale, whisper, “...because You mean what You say.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Our Mothers
Heavenly Father, we thank You for blessing our mothers. We declare our thanks and devotion to You for Your goodness and loving kindness towards them. We thank You for creating each of them in Your image. Thank You for Your plans for good and not for disaster, to give them a future and a hope. Lord, You are our God and there is none other, we worship You in the beauty of Your Holiness. You are the true and living God to whom all honor and glory belongs. We will love You, Lord our strength. You are our rock, our fortress and our deliverer. You are our God, our strength in whom we will trust.
Wonderful Father, we declare that our mothers are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus. We confess with holy boldness that our mothers will give their children the Word of God, daily structure, love, discipline, encouragement,healthylifestylepracticesandagoodeducation. Asmothers,theywilltrainuptheirchildren in the way they should go and when they are old they will not depart from it. We confess that our mothers will not copy the behavior and customs of this world, but they are transformed by the Holy Spirit to do what is good and pleasing and perfect in Your sight. We decree that the fruit of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control is operable in their lives. The light of Jesus is reflected in their actions. We confess that they are virtuous women and their price is far above rubies.
I will pray the following for a mother this month:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Our Father, we ask You to fill our mothers with the knowledge of Your Word in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Please order their days so that their daily activities are balanced and fruitful. Make the crooked places in their lives straight and perfect those things that concern them. Teach our mothers to develop the individual spiritual gifts and talents of their children. Restore the broken or struggling relationships between mothers and children. Increase Your love in those mother/child(ren) relationships that are doing well. Holy
“Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything
more than this comes from evil.”
(Matthew 5:33-37, ESV)
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Spirit, comfort those who have experienced the death of their mother and equip us as a Church Family to provide the support that they may need.
Loving Father, forgive our mothers for sins, such as jealousy, gossip, malice, back biting, bitterness and unforgiveness (list any additional sins). Forgive them for not trusting You with their lives. Forgive those for quick tempers and lack of patience. Forgive those mothers who are not raising their children according to Your Word. Forgive those who allow the television, radio, video games, music, older siblings and activities to raise their children. Forgive those mothers for negative words and deeds against their children’s father. Forgive those who are still holding on to past hurts and offenses and refuse to let them go. As for me, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our mothers of those they need to forgive and help them to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our mothers not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
All glory belongs to You, the only God and Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authorityareYoursbeforealltime,andinthepresent,andbeyondalltime! InJesus’Name,Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 29:2, Jeremiah 29:11, Psalm 18:1-2, Proverbs 22:6, Romans 12:2, Galatians 5:22- 23, Matthew 5:14, Proverbs 31:10, Colossians 1:9, Matthew 6:13, Jude 1:25
4. Concepts to Consider:
Here Jesus is reminding His followers that our word should be enough to seal our integrity. Oath-taking is unnecessary. Also, in His Roman context, oath-taking often assumed taking an oath “by a deity,” which would have been impossible for a Jewish or Jesus-following person. Jesus is not forbidding any oaths ever, just ones that involve false gods or the Lord God’s possessions in things He may not want to have anything to do with! He is simply stating that our word should be our bond. If you don’t think you can do it, say no. If you can, with integrity, say yes. Period.
5. Reflections:
1. “I swear by Almighty God, I will never do that again!” And then, you do it again. We humans are often well-meaning but fickle creatures. Jesus says it’s better not to take oaths. Just do what you say you’ll do. Or, just say no. Have you ever taken empty oaths? If so, repent of them and ask the Holy Spirit to help you “let your yes be yes and your no be no.”
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Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #31 (May 9, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “With Your strength...” As you exhale, whisper, “...we will turn the other cheek.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://gospels.social/kingdom
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for the Young Adults in Our Windsor Village Church Family

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him
two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
(Matthew 5:38-41, ESV)
Marvelous Father, we thank You for the young adults in our Church Family. Thank You for the bright and prosperous future that You have for each of them. Thank You for the blood of Your precious Son, Jesus Christ, that brought us all near to You. Great is Your faithfulness. Your mercies are fresh every morning. We praise Your great and awesome Name. Your Name is holy! It is because of Your faithfulness that our young adults are kept strong in You and the power of Your might.
Faithful Father, we declare that the young adults in our Church Family are confident they have been raised from thedeadalongwithChrist,andtheyareseatedintheheavenlyrealmsbecausetheyareunitedwithHim. They are new people. Their old lives are gone, and a new life has begun! Lord, it is Your will that they be joyful always, ceaseless in prayer, and thankful in all circumstances. In Jesus’ Name, we declare that they are free from the power of sin and have become slaves of God. They do only those things that lead to holiness and result in eternal life. We declare that wisdom will enter their hearts, and knowledge will fill them with joy. Wise choices will watch over them and understanding will keep them safe. We decree that they are living wisely and making the most of every opportunity.
Father, I commit to encouraging and praying for the following young adults:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ _____
Holy Spirit, help our young adults to strip off every weight that slows them down; especially the sins that so easily trips them up. Teach them to run with endurance the race God has set before them. Search them, O God, and know their hearts. Test them and know their anxious thoughts. Point out anything in them that offends You, and lead them along the path of everlasting life. Help them to daily trust in the Lord with all of their hearts and not lean to their own understanding, to seek His will in all that they do so that He can show them which path to take. Show them how to make divine connections with others who will hold them accountable and help keep
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them focused and pressing toward the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling them. Lord, show them the place and position that You have ordained for them in Your Kingdom. Help us as a Church Family to embrace and empower our young adults to stand strong in their Kingdom faith.
Compassionate Father, forgive our young adults collectively and individually for the sinful acts that they have committed against You, including: idolatry, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, homosexuality, selfish ambitions, fornication, envy, drunkenness, division and disobedience. Forgive them for times when they havelostsightofwhotheyareinChristJesus. ForgiveusasaChurchFamilywherewehavenotacknowledged or embraced our young adults. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our young adults of those they need to forgive and help them to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our young adults not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Almighty God, You alone are God. You are the First and the Last. It was Your hand that laid the foundations of the earth; Your right hand that spread out the heavens above. When You call out the stars, they all appear in order. Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is Yours, O Lord, and this is Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Ephesians 2:13, Lamentations 3:23, Psalm 99:3, Ephesians 6:10, Ephesians 2:6, II Corinthians 5:17, I Thessalonians 5:16-18, Romans 6:22, Proverbs 2:10-11, II Corinthians 6:14, Colossians 4:5, Hebrews 12:1, Psalm 139:23-24, Proverbs 3:5-6, Philippians 3:14, Matthew 6:13, Isaiah 48:12-13, I Chronicles 29:10-11
4. Concepts to Consider:
Here we see Jesus laying out the heart of His “non-resistance” doctrine that persons such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Bishop Desmond Tutu, and Ghandi all saw as a revolutionary and world-changing stance. They were right. The followers of Jesus were and are to be radically different than those around them, especially when it comes to hospitality, humility, relationships, and service. These mandates from Jesus have not been altered. Right relationship with God and others--even when “the other” mistreats and insults us--is a hallmark of the Christian life. When we do not act “like everyone else,” or like the world expects Christians to act (judgmental, angry, corrupt, and sour), then we surprise people with the love of Christ. That radical stance changes lives.
5. Reflections:
1. Have you ever had to show radical non-resistance in a situation? If so, when? Thank God for His help in that situation.
2. If you have time, do a little research on the three men listed above and see how they used Jesus’ non- resistance doctrine in their world-changing movements.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a
meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #30 (May 10, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “By Your grace...” As you exhale, whisper, “...we will love our enemies.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Videos: http://b.link/JesusAgape
http://b.link/LoveUrEnemy (long lecture, but excellent; 1hr 10min)
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Wives Who are Desiring To Get Pregnant
Our Father, we thank You for the blessing of children and family. Thank You for each wife who stands in faithful expectancy of a child to hold in her arms. Thank You for Your creative power which is able to open closed wombs and cause them to thrive with new life. We will praise You, Lord, with all our hearts. We will tell of all the marvelous things You have done. We will be filled with joy because of You, and we will sing praises to Your Name, O Most High. May Your glorious Name be praised! May it be exalted above all blessing and praise!
Exalted Father, we believe that just as You were attentive to Hannah’s pleas for help, You hear the cries of every wife who longs to become a mother. We, the Body of Christ, declare that their prayers will not go unanswered, for You promised that You would withhold no good thing from those who do what is right. We confess that these wives will not grow weary and lose hope. In Jesus Name, we declare that bodies of each husband and wife in our Church Family are whole and complete, lacking nothing. We confess that they have victory over doubt, fear, and unbelief. We believe that You will connect them with those people who will love and support them as they trust You for children of their own. We decree that they will be parents who are full of wisdom and patience. They will train their children up in the way they should go, and when their children are old they will not depart from it. These expectant couples will do all they can to nurture their marriages so that the atmosphere of their home will be ready to receive children into a loving, peaceful environment.
List the names of any wives you know who desire to have a child and pray for them by name today:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ _____
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You
therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
(Matthew 5:42-48, ESV)
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Holy Spirit, we ask that You would prompt the wives who are desiring to get pregnant to disconnect from any negative influences in their lives. Lead them to develop strong, healthy relationships with faith-filled believers who will stand in agreement with them and their husbands. Teach them how to take care of themselves physically, mentally and spiritually. Help them to rest and trust in the Father’s perfect timing. Keep them from becoming envious of others who have already conceived a child. Heal their hearts and deliver them from any guilt or shame they may be feeling. Help their husbands to show compassion and be patient and understanding toward them as they wait to conceive. Once they do conceive, strengthen them against the temptation to worship or overindulge their children. May they always be thankful and give glory to God, keeping Him first in their lives.
Loving Father, forgive the wives who desire to get pregnant of any known or unknown acts of disobedience. Forgive the wives and husbands for any past sins they may have committed. Forgive them for holding unforgiveness in their hearts toward others. Forgive them for giving in to frustration, anger, or outbursts of wrath. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that You have committed). Holy Spirit, remind the wives and husbands of those they need to forgive and help them to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help the wives and husbands who desire to get pregnant not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Sovereign Lord, You are the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for You? You are mighty, but You do not despise anyone. You are mighty in both power and understanding. You are greater than we can understand. Your years cannot be counted. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 9:1-2, Nehemiah 9:5, I Samuel 19:20, Psalm 84:11, Proverbs 22:6 NKJV, Matthew 6:13, Jeremiah 32:27, Job 36:5, 26
4. Concepts to Consider:
Everyone likes the idea of loving our enemies, but very few people actually want to or know how to do it. Radical love for “the other” cannot be done outside of a supernatural infusion of the presence of Jesus’ Spirit. And it is precisely this radical love that is supposed to set the followers of Jesus apart from all others. This teaching is the peak of the rhetorical crescendo that began in Matthew 5:13-16 with “you are the salt... and the light.” It is this same radical love that Jesus demonstrates toward us, “in that while we were yet sinners, He died for us” (Romans 5:8). In this act He proves His love for us. In our world that seeks ease and comfort as the highest good, how far are we willing to go “to love our enemies?”
5. Reflections:
1. Indeed, how far would you extend yourself to love someone who not only ignored you, but actively hated you?
2. Have you ever been the recipient of radical love? If so, how did it change your perspective?
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Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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