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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 29, MAY 11, 2019: Matthew 6:1-4..................................................................9 Day 28, MAY 12: Matthew 6:5-8.........................................................................12 Day 27, MAY 13: Matthew 6:9-15.......................................................................15 Day 26, MAY 14: Matthew 6:16-18......................................................................18 Day 25, MAY 15: Matthew 6:19-21......................................................................21 Day 24, MAY 16: Matthew 6:22-24......................................................................24 Day 23, MAY 17: Matthew 6:25-32......................................................................27 Day 22, MAY 18: Matthew 6:33-34......................................................................30 Day 21, MAY 19: Matthew 7:1-6.........................................................................33 Day 20, MAY 20: Matthew 7:7-11.......................................................................36 Day 19, MAY 21: Matthew 7:12..........................................................................39 Day 18, MAY 22: Matthew 7:13-14......................................................................42 Day 17, MAY 23: Matthew 7:15-20......................................................................45 Day 16, MAY 24: Matthew 7:21-23......................................................................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.”
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 Feast of Pentecost Sundown, Saturday, June 8th thru Sundown, Sunday, June 9th Day off 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)
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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 #29: (May 11, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We are blessed...” As you exhale, whisper, “...to be a blessing.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Videos: http://scripture.live/matthew5-7 http://b.link/KeenerM6A (long, academic lecture)
“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father Who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you,
as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father Who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:1-4, ESV)
http://pages.today/KeenerM7 (long, academic)
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.
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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, 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:
As we continue to count down toward Pentecost and Holy Spirit Re-Launch on June 8, 2019, we are walking down the pathway of Jesus’ teachings found within His “Sermon on the Mount.” Chapter 6 of Matthew’s Gospel opens with a summary statement regarding the three foundational virtues of prayer, fasting, and giving that will be expanded in 6:2-16. In context, all three of these godly practices are to be performed without drawing undue attention to ourselves. The glory and honor belong to God. Our service in giving, praying, and fasting all work together to strengthen our relationship with God through Jesus Christ, empowered by His Spirit, and to demonstrate our collective willingness to lift our eyes and care about the things God cares about most: holy love, justice, restoring creation, loving neighbor, etc. His healing grace helps us look “over the fence” of our self-referenced lives into the wider world that needs to see Jesus in action through us, the church.
5. Reflections:
1. As we see illuminated in Matthew 6, the core of the Jesus-following life is a progressive shedding of the “what’s in it for me” attitude. A self-referenced life will inevitably lead to an insatiable hunger and emptiness that can only be ultimately filled by a growing relationship with our Creator, anchored in Jesus. What areas of your life have been characterized by a “self-referenced” disposition?
Take some time to lift these areas of brokenness before the Lord and ask Him to enter in and heal the fears, hurts, and desires that drive our unhealthy obsession with self.
(Note: We are supposed to love ourselves in healthy proportion to how God loves us. According our Creator, we are beloved, cherished, and worth living and dying for. You are God’s masterpiece. The brokenness we inherited from our First Parents, Adam and Eve has unfortunately left us with a “narcissistic distortion” that can only be tamed and put into perspective as we steadily walk with Jesus every day, who loves us unconditionally.)
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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 #28: (May 12, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We cry out to You...” As you exhale, whisper, “...from the depths of our hearts!”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Article: http://b.link/JesusKavanah 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 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.
“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues
and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father Who is in secret. And your Father Who sees in secret will reward you. And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:5-8, ESV)
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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:
In Jesus’ teaching on how we should not pray, we observe a contrast between those who have their prayers and attitudes focused on the Parental heart of God and those who are focused on “getting something from God” by imitating Greek and Roman methods of pagan prayer that pile up “as many titles of the deity addressed as possible, hoping to secure his or her attention. Pagan prayers typically reminded the deity of favors done or sacrifices offered, attempting to get a response from the god on contractual grounds.... Jesus predicates [centers] effective prayer on a relationship of intimacy [with God], not a business partnership model, which was closer to the one followed by ancient paganism.” (Craig S. Keener, The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament)
5. Reflections:
1. Have you ever viewed God more as a “business partner” rather than as your loving Father? Why or why not?
2. How does knowing prayer is centered on intimate relationship with God change the way you think about prayer? How will it affect the way you pray?
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 #27: (May 13, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “...We rest in You,” As you exhale, whisper, “...our loving Father.”
2. Scripture Reading:
“[Jesus said] Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your Name.
Your kingdom come, Your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:9-15, ESV)
For further consideration: Video: http://prayer.watch/STCModelPrayer
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for the Young Adults in Our Windsor Village Church Family
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:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ____________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
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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 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:
Jesus’ teaching here is a positive admonition on how we should pray. Jesus’ model prayer reflects at least two well- attested Jewish principles common during the time He walked the earth: 1. The ideal of Kiddush HaShem (setting apart and honoring God’s name in how we live), and 2. the Amidah or “standing” prayer that included 18 blessings. In these traditions God’s Name (i.e., His character) and Fatherly relationship toward His people are highlighted, as well as our dependence on Him for provision, forgiveness, perseverance, and hope in His now (revealed in Jesus) and future Kingdom. Further, we see that those who are the recipients of God’s grace and forgiveness are better equipped to extend it to others. If we’ve received the pardoning grace of God, how much more should we pardon— with His help and grace--those who have wronged us?
5. Reflections:
1. What is the most personally meaningful section of Jesus’ model prayer? Why?
2. How does knowing that Jesus’ prayer model is steeped in the ancient traditions of the Hebrew Scriptures and teaching inform how you come before God in prayer?
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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 #26: (May 14, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “You are our Source of strength...” As you exhale,
whisper, “...we hunger and thirst for You.” 2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/PrayFastChan 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:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
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.
“And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may
be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your
Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
(Matthew 6:16-18, ESV)
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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:
In Jesus’ third set of teachings recorded in Matthew 6 we get a glimpse into His perspective on fasting. Traditionally, fasting (abstaining from food and other pleasures) had been coupled with mourning and/or repentance. Here, Jesus reminds us that fasting—like giving and prayer—are good and necessary parts of following Him, but we are cautioned to take note of how and why we give, pray, and fast. Jesus challenges us not to do these things in an arrogant, shallow, or empty manner. Jesus is confronting the tendency of religious people to adopt “a form of godliness without the Power thereof” (2 Timothy 3:5). He’s warning His followers that it is easy to get lost in the weeds of “doing” the religious life rather than focusing on the joy of “being” in relationship with the One Who loves us most! In this way we are then “free indeed” to compassionately demonstrate to others how much God loves them, too!
5. Reflections:
1. As you reflect in Jesus’ teaching over the past few days regarding giving, prayer, and fasting, how has
your perspective or understanding changed about how we practice our faith?
2. Who will you share your new (or strengthened) perspectives with? Make it a point to reach out and share with them as soon as is appropriate.
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 #25: (May 15, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “You, Jesus...” Treasure.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/TreasureHeaven 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Obedience and Self-Control for Media Professionals
As you exhale, whisper, “...are our true
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and
steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves
do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
(Matthew 6:19-21, ESV)
Our Father, thank You for Your love and compassion toward media professionals. Thank You for keeping Your covenant with them throughout the ages. Thank You for Your provision and protection. Lord, You are compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. Your unfailing love toward those who revere and respect You is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. Let the whole world honor You, Lord. Let everyone stand in awe of You. Almighty God, You are so awesome! Father, You are great and most worthy of praise. Media professionals will praise You at all times and constantly speak of Your praises.
Righteous Father, by faith, we declare that media professionals around the world will obey Your commands, walk in Your ways, and honor You. They will confess that Your instructions are perfect, reviving their souls. Your decrees are trustworthy, making wise the simple. Your commandments are right, bringing joy to their hearts. Your commands are clear, giving insight for living. Revering You is pure, lasting forever. Your laws are true and each one is fair. Father, Your Word is more desirable than gold to media professionals, yes, even the finest gold. Your Word is sweeter than honey dripping from the honeycomb. We declare that if they are willing and obedient to You, they will eat the good of the land. They will seek Your Kingdom above all else, and live righteously, and know that You will give them everything they need.
Today, I am praying for media professionals to obey God, our Father, in the following areas:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Omnipotent Father, please let Your ears be attentive to the prayers of media professionals. Holy Spirit, show them individually and collectively where they are consistently missing the mark. Help them to turn from any areas of disobedience such as, infringement of others works, communicating dishonestly and with intent to deceive others, and allowing greed for riches and power to control them. Cause them to fully release their whole hearts to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Help media professionals encourage and mentor others while building each other up on a regular basis. Encourage them to make every effort to respond to God’s vision for their profession.
Compassionate Father, forgive media professionals for all acts of sinfulness, including those mentioned in this prayer. Lord, forgive those who practice half-hearted worship. Forgive them for, at times, treating You irreverently. Forgive those who do not glorify Your Name through their actions and lifestyles. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind media professionals of those they need to 21
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 media professionals not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Triumphant Lord, You are the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. You are the God who is, and who was, and who is still to come – the Almighty One, El Shaddai. All honor and glory belongs to You, God, forever and ever! You are the eternal King, the unseen One who never dies; You alone are God. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 103:8,11, Psalm 33:8, Psalm 96:4, Psalm 34:1, Deuteronomy 8:6, Psalm 19:7-11, Isaiah 1:19, Matthew 6:33, 2 Peter 1:5-7, Matthew 6:13, Revelation 1:8, I Timothy 1:17
4. Concepts to Consider:
Here again, Jesus challenges our status quo. He pushes back against humanity’s “default button” that confuses “stuff” with Him (Romans 1:25). He cautions His followers not to fall into the trap of pursuing wealth, as God alone in the Source of our daily bread. Jesus knows we are too easily drawn away by distracting concerns over money. These concerns can become an idol (aka “mammon”) if we are not diligent to build trust in Jesus and His provision. If we are short on cash we can become obsessed with seeking it and worrying about our lack of it. If we are flush and have money in the bank we can become consumed with how to make more of it and how to protect it. People in Jesus’ time were no less concerned about money than we are today. A distinguishing feature of those who follow Jesus is supposed to be our lack of worry; we trust in God’s provision for each day. We demonstrate our trust in Him when we “lean not to our own understanding, but acknowledge Him in all our ways...” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
5. Reflections:
1. Take a moment to reflect on--and thank Him for--the times that God has provided for your basic needs.
2. Try the following exercise. Over the next 5 minutes (set a timer, if you’d like), invite God to help you make a list of how He is providing for you in this moment, right now.
a. Example: I have breath in my body!
b. Example: As I look around the space where I am right now, I am thankful for...
c. d. e. f. g.
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 #24: (May 16, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “You are the light of the world...” As you exhale,
whisper, “...we are the light of the world.” 2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/SingleEye 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for Our U.S. Military Personnel
Heavenly Father, we thank You for our U.S. Military personnel. We especially thank You for those men and women who sacrificed their lives to defend this nation. Thank You for being a Comforter, Provider and Protector forthosefamilymembersofourU.S.MilitaryPersonnel. Lord,wepraiseandhonorYourName.YourNameis the Lord and we rejoice before You. You have been our home through all the generations. We praise You, the God of Israel, who lives from everlasting to everlasting. Amen and amen! O Lord, what a variety of things You have made. In wisdom, You have made them all. The earth is full of Your creatures. Lord, You are a faithful, loving and compassionate God and we bless You.
Righteous Father, we declare that You are the light and salvation of our military personnel; they will not be afraid. You are their fortress and their protection from danger; they will not tremble. We declare that any enemy or foe who comes to attack them will stumble and fall. We confess that our soldiers will trust in You with all of their hearts and they will not depend on their own understanding. They will seek Your will in all that they do, and we know that You will show them which path to take. We declare that our military personnel are blessed and highly favored. We decree that they will submit themselves to God, resist the devil and he will flee from them. With the authority given to us, we cancel the assignment of anxiety, depression, anger, fear and confusion and declare that no weapon formed against them will prosper. We command God’s order to prevail within the Veteran Affairs system.
Holy Spirit, show me how I can be a blessing to a military veteran:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ _____
Holy Spirit, please strengthen and encourage the family members of those Military Personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. Meet the financial, emotional and relational needs of these families. Help the surviving spouse and children to access the benefits that are afforded to them. Holy Spirit, please comfort those children whose parent is deployed overseas. Calm their fears and remind them that God promised to never leave nor forsake them or their parent. As our soldiers return home, Holy Spirit, help them to process all they have experienced. Heal any physical and emotional wounds. Please help them with their familial, social, and professional relationships. Lord, we ask that the wait times for appointments at the VA Hospital will be shortened and that each veteran will be treated with dignity and respect. Holy Spirit, we ask that You give our government officials
“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, but if your eye
is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
(Matthew 6:22-24, ESV)
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the wisdom on how to cut down on the redtape that ensnares so many veterans from receiving all of the benefits they are entitled to. As a nation, help us to not overlook or discount the sacrifices our military veterans have made for the freedom of our nation.
Forgiving Father, please forgive our active and inactive military personnel for their sins. Forgive them for lying, cheating, stealing, slander, strife, malice, envy, jealousy, selfishness, disobedience and rebellion. Forgive our nation for hypocrisy, slander, greed, racism, injustice, elitism, hatred, and violence. Father, forgive the media for misrepresenting the truth. Father, forgive the Church for not praying consistently for local, national, and world leaders. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind our military personnel 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 show you names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He shows you, 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 military personnel not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Triumphant Lord, You reign. You dwell between the cherubim; let the earth be moved. You are great in Zion and high above all people. Your Name is so great and awesome. You are Holy. Yours is the Kingdom, the power and glory, forever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Test (NKJV & NLT): Psalm 90:1, Psalm 104:24, Psalm 27:1-2, Proverbs 3:5-6, Luke 1:28, James 4:7, Isaiah 54:17, I Corinthians 14:40, Deuteronomy 31:6, Matthew 6:13, Psalm 99:1-3
4. Concepts to Consider:
In ancient times it was thought that the eye itself produced light that allowed us to see. In this teaching Jesus is speaking out against people who are stingy and unwilling to give. This kind of person was said to have a “darkened eye.” They were blind to the needs of others (see: Luke chapters 16 and 21). For Jesus, this type of blindness and servitude to money (“mammon”) does not befit His followers. He is blunt in His statement. We “cannot serve both God and money.”
5. Reflections:
1. Now, some people will try to split hairs and quibble over the word “serve” here in the Biblical text. They will claim they do not “serve” or “worship” money. “That’s absurd!” However, Jesus knows the hearts of humanity all too well. How much time do we spend in a day thinking about, worrying about, managing, etc. money in some way? How to get it, spend it, save it, earn it, etc.? What/who does Jesus invite us to spend our precious time and energy on for the sake of His Kingdom?
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 #23: (May 17, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We breathe in trust...” As you exhale, whisper, “...and exhale fear.”
2. Scripture Reading:
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your
body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.’
(Matthew 6:25-32, ESV)
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/DontWorry 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,
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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:
__________________________________________________________________________ _____________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
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:
In this passage at the end of Matthew 6 Jesus acknowledges our fears and concerns over having our basic needs met. He encourages His hearers—most of whom lived a subsistence lifestyle in material poverty in the Galilee region—to trust in God for their basic needs and to look forward to the Kingdom of God yet to come, where no one will be naked or go hungry! Indeed, we see the earliest church living into Jesus’ vision for Kingdom provision. In the book of Acts His followers “held all things in common” and shared with one another to the point that “there were no needy among them” (Acts 4:34). As you might imagine, this type of radical hospitality had a huge evangelistic impact. Remember, Jesus had said to his disciples not long before, “by this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).
5. Reflections:
1. If you were truly free from worrying about money and having your daily needs met, how would it affect your decisions? What steps might you need to put into place that may help you to better manage your money and/or reduce debt? How might the Lord be leading you to simplify your life?
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 #22: (May 18, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “...” As you exhale, whisper, “....” 2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/MCLARENKingdom 3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer for the United States 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.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
(Matthew 6:33-34, ESV)
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Make clear to them opportunities for jobs, education and promotions. Holy Spirit, please knit all the families of 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
3. Concepts to Consider:
What is “the Kingdom of God” that Jesus keeps referring to in the Sermon on the Mount? In the immediate context, Jesus’ Messianic illumination here of the Greek word βασιλεία (bas-ih-lay-ih-ah; “kingdom”) does not directly refer to people or territory. Instead Jesus is reaching back to the long-anticipated rightly-aligned restoration of the “reign” and “authority” of God and humanity that was marred in Genesis 3. Jesus is stating that the Kingdom of God has—present tense—arrived in Him and He is announcing a future aspect of God’s reignthatisyettoreachitsultimatefulfillmentintheNewHeavenandNewEarth. “Butwait,there’smore...” ☺
So when it comes to God providing for our needs (aka “these things”), Jesus is speaking in kingdom terms. Seeking “the kingdom” means living into our restored, authoritative alignment under the King of Kings. What does that look like? We stop substituting “stuff” for God. We stop chasing after things, prestige, and status and follow Jesus with all that we are. We cease fussing, fighting, and fearing because we are learning to walk in the “now” of His daily provision. All these things—and more—are possible when we truly take in that “
5. Reflections:
1. Reflecting back on all of Jesus’ teachings this week concerning money and possessions, what have you been challenged by? What has encouraged you?
...in all
these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:37-39).
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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 #21: (May 19, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Give us Your eyes...” As you exhale, whisper, “...to see others as You do.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/mackieMatthew7 (long, 54 min)
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.
“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not
notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” (Matthew 7:1-6, ESV)
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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 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:
In context, Jesus’ warning concerning “judging others” has to do with reminding His followers Who the Ultimate Judge truly is. As we discussed yesterday, the “Kingdom of God” is mainly about restoration and realignment. At the final judgement everything will be set in order and all hearts will be open and known “to the One Who sits upon the throne” (see: Revelation 20). In the meantime, be careful how you, as Kingdom people, call others to account. Look at your own life first before pointing out the fault in others. The same scale you weigh their sin on will be used to weight your own. Ouch.
Jesus’ statements about not feeding dogs holy things and throwing precious pears to swine seems to indicate—again in context—that those who won’t humbly receive honest correction or a prudent word are not living up to their God- given human dignity (Proverbs 23:9), and have thus devolved into behaving like beasts. Remember the warning that God gave to Cain before he killed his brother, “sin is crouching [like a beast] at your door” (Genesis 4:7).
5. Reflections:
1. Take a moment to examine your life. Are there things you are critical of in others’ lives that you do yourself? If so, repent of those things right now. Spend some time with the Judge who is also your Loving Parent. Make room for Him to show you His perspective and set your feet back on the “path that leads to life.”
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 #20 (May 20, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We will keep on knocking...” As you exhale, whisper, “...we will keep on seeking You.”
2. Scripture Reading:
”
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/Matt77Song 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!
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you,
if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in
heaven give good things to those who ask him!
(Matthew 7:7-11, 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.
Merciful Father, forgive the business and organizational leaders for any sins they have committed. Forgive us 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:
The audacious claims made by Jesus when He encourages His followers to boldly “keep on knocking,” and “keep on seeking” calls to mind Jesus’ parable of the “persistent widow”(Luke 18) who received justice, and “the godly” in Psalm 37 who are not forsaken nor are their families left without bread. We can observe, then, that Jesus uses the staples of bread and fish to once again emphasize the trust-infused ordinariness of God’s daily provision and the compassionate relationship He desires to have with us. “Opened” in this passage could also indicate a reception of Jesus’ Kingdom wisdom by the hearers, which--as we’ve seen all along--contrasts the thin darkness of the materialistic, power-hungry world around them and us.
5. Reflections:
1. What are you persistently knocking on God’s door for?
2. As you continue to knock and seek, don’t forget to pause and breathe in God’s wisdom and love and also take time to do a little self-care.
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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 #19 (May 21, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We will see others...” As you exhale, whisper, “...as made in Your Image.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/GoldenRuleSong 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. 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
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”
(Matthew 7:12, ESV)
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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:
The “Golden Rule” has been taught by Jesus, other Jewish teachers, and even Roman and Chinese philosophers across the centuries. It seems to be a moral baseline that God has planted within the hearts of humanity as a means of “common grace.” Jesus, of course, goes beyond mere moralizing and actually lives a life characterized by “not doing to others what one would not wish done to oneself.” In essence, when you live by the “Golden Rule” you respect the God-given, image-bearing status of another person and you also respect the same within yourself.
5. Reflections:
1. Do a “Golden Rule” experiment today. See what might happen if you treat the most difficult person in your life with basic human respect and treat them as you would want to be treated.
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 #18 (May 22, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “we seek to walk Your path...” As you exhale, whisper, “...that leads to life.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/ChanRoads 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 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.
“Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”
(Matthew 7:13-14, ESV)
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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:
Here Jesus speaks against spiritual arrogance in His teaching on “the two paths.” Those who think that just because they were born into a certain family, go to a certain house of worship, have achieved a certain level of power or status, that these things guarantee their entrance through “the narrow gate.” “Of course,” they say, “we’ve been chosen and blessed by God; we’ve done good for others; we’re good people.” Sadly, Jesus warns that many who think this way will not do what it takes to follow Him and walk the challenging path “that leads to life.” As we discover later in the Gospels, the road that leads to life, first leads to death. To the death of self. To the death of expecting “the wide and easy road,” and to the death of all those things we cling to, that when brought into the Light of Christ are proven to be mere fleeting shadows and fading hopes.
5. Reflections:
1. Jesus said, “I am the Road; the Truth; the Life” (John 14:6). As you examine your journey today, who’s path are you on? Who’s really directing your steps?
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 #17 (May 23, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Help us to discern...” As you exhale, whisper, “...Your truth and good fruit.”
2. Scripture Reading:
”
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/JMTWolvesSheep 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
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will
recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus
you will recognize them by their fruits.
(Matthew 7:15-20, 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:
In today’s teaching Jesus is warning us against Spiritual naïveté. Don’t believe everything you hear from everyone who calls themselves a prophet of God. Just because someone dresses well, speaks authoritatively, and has a sizable following doesn’t mean they are anointed by God. Test everything, including their fruit, i.e. do they teach Scripture responsibly and humbly—using historical and linguistic contexts--or do they twist the Scripture for their own purposes? Are their lives and their ministries generally characterized by the Fruit of the Spirit (love:
5. Reflections:
1. Have you (or someone you know) ever been led astray by a “false prophet” or a Spiritually or emotionally manipulative person? If so, how did it impact your relationship with God? Others? How did God rescue you? Give God thanks for His Holy Spirit discernment in your life!
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.
joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control)? If not, then run far and run fast.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #16 (May 24, 2019) Matthew 7:21-23
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We desire to know You...” As you exhale, whisper, “...as we are known by You.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/KeenerLordLord
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 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
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of
my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them,
‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
(Matthew 7:21-23, ESV)
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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:
And finally, we arrive today at another of Jesus’ challenging teachings on the difference between “obedience” and “relationship.” One can obey God, perform miracles in His name and still not be saved. The linchpin in this passage is the idea of “being known” by Jesus. This is an intimate term that indicates more than just “doing the right thing,” even for the right reasons. Obedience may be better than sacrifice, but loving relationship is better than both.
A practical example of the type of relationship Jesus envisions here might be demonstrated in a healthy parent-child relationship. Obedience should ideally flow from the relational love a child has for their parent. That relational love is nurtured by the parent who knows the child and cares for the child in a way that allows for love and respect to flourish between them. This relationship is very different from, say, a friend down the street who comes over to play once in a while. The friend is treated kindly, and the friend may even be obedient and do nice things for the parent of the house, but they are not in the same relationship as the child and parent are. The friend is not “known” in the same way that the child and parent are “known” to each other.
5. Reflections:
1. So, how is your relationship with Jesus? How can you get to know Him better?
2. Spend some time in your Loving Parent’s presence today through Lectio Divina or other meaningful spiritual discipline, such as walking and seeing Him in the beauty and wonder of His creation.
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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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