May-June 2019 Prayer and Study Guide Volume 3

© 2019 Caldwell Ministries.
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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 15, MAY 25, 2019: Matthew 7:24-27...............................................................9 Day 14, MAY 26: Matthew 7:28-29......................................................................12 Day 13, MAY 27: Matthew 28:16-17....................................................................15 Day 12, MAY 28: Matthew 28:18-20....................................................................18 Day 11, MAY 29: Luke 24:44-49.........................................................................21 Day 10, MAY 30, THE ASCENSION: Luke 24:50-53...............................................24 Day 9, MAY 31: John 14:15-17..........................................................................27 Day 8, JUNE 1: John 14:18-21.........................................................................30 Day 7, JUNE 2: John 14:22-24.........................................................................33 Day 6, JUNE 3: John 14:25-27.........................................................................36 Day 5, JUNE 4: John 14:28-31.........................................................................39 Day 4, JUNE 5: Isaiah 11:1-5...........................................................................42 Day 3, JUNE 6: John 1:32-34...........................................................................45 Day 2, JUNE 7: Genesis 11:1-9........................................................................48 PENTECOST BEGINS AT SUNDDOWN, JUNE 8: Acts 2:1-11................................51
V. Daily Power Confessions....................................................................................54
VI. Holy Spirit Re-Launch Expectations..................................................................55
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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 7 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 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 #15: (May 25, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Our house is built...” As you exhale, whisper, “...on the Rock of the Living Word.”
2. Scripture Reading:
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Protection for Our Children and Youth
Righteous Father, we are so grateful that You are all-seeing and all-knowing. You have Your eye on each and every person on this earth, including our children and youth. Thank You for faithfully watching over them every day. We thank You for keeping Your angels stationed around them day and night. Thank You, Lord, for guarding their lives in the face of seen and unseen dangers. Father, we give You glory. You are in Your holy Temple, yet You still rule from heaven. You watch everyone closely, examining every person on earth. We lift our hands and worship You, for You Yourself watch over our children and youth. You stand beside them as their protective shade. All praises to You, our Father and our God!
Awesome Father, when our children and youth are at home, You are there. When they are in school, You are there. Wherever they go, You are there. We believe in the power of Your Word, so we commit ourselves to declaring blessings over our children and youth every day. In the Name of Jesus, we rebuke every foul plot of the enemy to harass, bully, injure, harm, or kidnap our children and youth. The blood of Jesus covers them and guards their steps. We declare that our children and youth live in the shelter of the Most High, and they find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. You alone are their refuge and their place of safety. You are their God, and they trust You. Lord, we expect You to rescue them from every trap (drugs, alcohol, crime, and abuse), and protect them from deadly disease. You promised that You will cover them with Your feathers. You will shelter them with Your wings. These promises are their armor and their protection.
Holy Spirit, help parents to act responsibly when it comes to the welfare of their children. Keep them from being distracted by work, bills, relationships, and other issues. Help them to be open to correction and instruction if they are lacking in good, balanced parenting skills. Lord, help us all to be shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves in the handling of our children and youth. Give us the courage to take action when we see warning signs of impending danger around them. Help us to come together in our communities to cover those children who are runaways and castaways. Empower our law enforcement officers, social workers, attorneys, child advocates, and court judges with the ability to bring to justice those who perpetrate crimes against children and youth. Bring strong conviction upon the hearts of those who have offended our children and youth, and bring them to the point of repentance and deliverance so that they can receive the grace and redemption that Jesus made possible for all mankind.
“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall,
because it had been founded on the rock. And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds
blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.”
(Matthew 7:24-27, ESV)
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List the names of any children and youth who are or may be in danger and pray for them. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you how you can be of help: _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Blessed Father, forgive us for our sins, especially those we have committed against our children and youth. Forgivethosewhodiscourageanddemeanourchildrenandyouth. Forgivethosewhorefusetodotheirpart to protect our children and youth. Forgive those parents and guardians who refuse to seek help for their children when they are spiraling out of control. Forgive those in the Church who judge and ostracize our children and youth instead of seeking to understand them and showing them love. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that You have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us of all those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us all not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Magnificent Father, no one is holy like You! There is no one besides You. There is no rock like our God. You are the Lord, the Mighty One, who has spoken and summoned all humanity from where the sun rises to where it sets. From Mount Zion, the perfection of beauty, You shine in glorious radiance. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 11:4, Psalm 121:5, Psalm 91:1-4, Matthew 10:16, Matthew 6:13, I Samuel 2:2, Psalm 50:1-2
4. Concepts to Consider:
As we approach the end of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount the cycle of choices between two things (e.g., God vs. money [6:24]; narrow vs. wide gates [7:14]; doing stuff for God vs. being in relationship with God [7:21-23]) culminates in “a tale of two houses.” Where will you choose to live? In a “house” built on the solid rock of Jesus’ teachings (His full-throated, lean, love-filled, and Divinely authoritative rendering of the Torah—the foundational first five books of the Bible) or a “house” built on the shifting sands of broken, religio-politically expedient Torah interpretations and institution that rely on the “authority” of religious pedigree and precedent rather than on the relational, re-creating Presence of God? Jesus is clear that a “house” that cares less about people made in God’s image and more about external, rote adherence to a bloated “moral code” (see: 1 Corinthians 13) is on its way to a disastrous fall.
5. Reflections:
1. Jesus doesn’t pull any punches. In Matthew 5, 6 & 7 He sets Himself up to be the definitive Interpreter of Torah and God’s ultimate intentions for humanity and the cosmos. This stance gets Him in a great deal of trouble with the religious establishment, and it ultimately is a factor that leads to His death. When Jesus asks us to follow Him, how far are we willing to go in living out His teachings in humble and loving ways, even if it flies in the face of the status quo? (see: Luke 9:23)
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 #14: (May 26, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “You, Jesus...” As you exhale, whisper, “...are our Authority.”
2. Scripture Reading:
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:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ ____________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
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, sexual immorality, selfish ambitions, envy, drunkenness, division and disobedience. Forgive them for times when they have lost sight of who they are in Christ Jesus. Forgive us as a Church Family where we have not acknowledged or
“And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching
them as One who had authority, and not as their scribes.” (Matthew 7:28-29, ESV)
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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:
With these words declaring Jesus’ unique authority the Sermon on the Mount comes to a close. As we touched on yesterday, Jesus’ teachings did not rely on the “authority” of prior interpreters but rested upon His Own, first-hand knowledge of God’s heart. Torah was originally given to Israel as their covenant document and served as the blueprint for God’s re-creation and restoration project. However, due to the faithlessness of the human heart, this project fell short, and so Jesus arrives on the scene as the definitive Interpreter of Torah to set things back in order and to reconstitute His people, a people that is made up of the descendants of Israel plus others that will hear the voice of Israel’s Good Shepherd (Isaiah 40:11; John 10:11) and rely on Him to lead the way into a life characterized by re- creation, light, and joy!
5. Reflections:
1. Take a few minutes to flip back through the Sermon on the Mount. What spoke to you most? What encouraged you? What challenged you?
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #13: (May 27, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We look up to the hills...” As you exhale, whisper, “...our help comes from You.”
2. Scripture Reading:
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.
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.
“Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they
saw Him they worshiped Him, but some doubted.”
(Matthew 28:16-17, ESV)
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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:
As we near the end of the Gospel of Matthew we have a reoccurrence of the Sermon on the Mount setting. Matthew 28:16 parallels Matthew 4:23 (ministry in the Galilee region) and Matthew 5:1 (God’s authoritative message comes from a mountain [see: Exodus 19:20]). We essentially end where the gospel begins. Jesus is the designated, authoritative interpreter of what God’s desires are for humanity and His creation. One of the most interesting things about this passage is that the disciples—who’d seen and lived it all!—are filled with both worship and doubt in the presence of the risen Messiah. This scene should offer us great hope. Even as “some doubted,” all of those who were “present and accounted for” as Jesus’ issued His parting commission were given the same missional tasks. Notice what Jesus didn’t say. He did not say, “now when you get your act together and stop doubting me, then I’ll tell you what you’re supposed to do.” No. He gave the call to teach and baptize to all of His followers who heard Him that day. What He knew—and we see fulfilled in Acts 2 and beyond—is that as His followers prayed, talked, ate, worked, worshipped and doubted together they grew in their understanding and experience of Who Jesus is. Be of good courage! Don’t abandon the road or throw in the towel. Even if you are struggling with doubt today. Even if you are weary, you are in good company. Take a cue from the early church. Gather with a group of other believers as often as you can to pray, talk, and encourage each other.
5. Reflections:
1. Doubt can be a part of our faith-building journey. Can you recall a time when you doubted and then the Lord rebuilt your faith? Look for opportunities encourage a fellow believer today.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #12: (May 28, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We will go...” As you exhale, whisper, “...because You are with us.”
2. Scripture Reading:
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Obedience and Self-Control for Media Professionals
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 18
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go therefore
and make disciples [student-followers] of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you
always, to the end of the age.’”
(Matthew 28:18-20, ESV)


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:
In His parting commission Jesus charges His followers to “Go... form student-followers.” How? Be on the move. Tell everyone about Me. Don’t decide who is or isn’t worthy of Me. I made all people, and all bear My Image. Initiate the people who desire to follow Me through baptism. Teach them what I’ve taught you. Don’t become static, rigid, and fearful. Resist building a fox-hole faith or adopting a fortress mentality. It’s not an “us vs. them” thing. Remember how we walked everywhere we went throughout the Judean country-side? We were always on the move doing God’s work. Practice a faith that’s on its feet. And remember, as you go, you are not alone. I AM with you.
5. Reflections:
1. As you reflect on Jesus’ commission to go and make student-followers, how will you to begin to fulfill
His call?
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 #11: (May 29, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We desire to be clothed...” “...with Power from on high.”
As you exhale, whisper,
2. Scripture Reading:
“Then [Jesus] said to [His disciples], ‘These are My words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that
everything written about Me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.’ Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, ‘Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His Name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And behold, I am sending the Promise of My Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed
with Power from on high.’”
, ESV)
3. Kingdom Prayer:
(Luke 24:44-49
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 for those family members of our U.S. Military Personnel. Lord, we praise and honor Your Name. Your Name is 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.
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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 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:
Similar to what we heard at the end of Matthew’s Gospel, Luke echoes Jesus’ call to “proclaim... to all nations.” And what are we enjoined to proclaim? That the totality of the Scripture points to Him. Stephen’s Holy Spirit-empowered defense speech before the Sanhedrin in Acts 7 (also recorded by Luke) gives us a peek into what such a proclamation would have been like. It is clear that Stephen, a Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) Jew, knew the Scriptures and he was not afraid to tell the story of Jesus even in the face of death. He eloquently outlines how the people of Israel—his people—had habitually rejected the leaders God sent to them (especially Joseph and Moses) and how they had wrongly idolized “their ancestors,” “the land of Israel” and “the temple.” Stephen’s ultimate point was that Jesus was also a God-appointed Leader that the Jewish authorities had rejected. And more than simply rejecting “just any leader,” they had rejected “The Righteous One,” the Messiah they had all been waiting for, to whom all the previous Jewish leaders, prophets, and kings had pointed. The Sanhedrin had heard enough. They convicted Stephen of blasphemy and had him stoned as a warning to the upstart followers of the renegade Rabbi, Jesus.
5. Reflections:
1. Stephen’s example is challenging. He was just an ordinary guy who was an early follower of Rabbi Jesus, yet he knew the Scripture and its historical context cold. He could stand flat-footed in front of the highest religiouscourtinthelandandexplainwhyhehadchosentofollowJesus,andwhytheyshould,too! Stephen is a testament to Jewish and early Christian catechesis. The Holy Spirit was able to powerfully use what had been deposited into Stephen’s mind and heart. The Spirit made all that information come alive. What are you doing to remain “a student-follower” (disciple) of Jesus? How are you growing in knowledge and understanding of His Word?
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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, THE ASCENSION, Day #10: (May 30, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We receive Your blessing...” As you exhale, whisper, “...and worship You with joy!”
2. Scripture Reading:
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Thanksgiving for Jesus Christ, our Risen and Ascended Lord
“And He led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up His hands He blessed them. While He blessed them, He
parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him and returned to Jerusalem with
great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God.” (Luke 24:50-53, ESV)
Heavenly Father, we praise You, the Lord of hosts. Lord, You are good and Your mercy endures forever. You are the Lord, our Righteousness. We are grateful to You! We thank You that all who choose eternal life are included in Your Church Family. We adore You as Abba Father, with all our hearts. Thank You for being such a loving God. Thank You for being our God and making us Your people. Thank You for being mindful of us and sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Deliverer and Liberator.
Jesus, Your death on the cross, resurrection and ascension into heaven has restored the broken connection between heaven and earth and between humanity and You. We can now have full access to Your Shalom. When we were utterly helpless in our sin nature You came to earth at just the right time and died for us. Most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone mightperhapsbewillingtodieforapersonwhohethoughtdidespeciallygooddeeds. ButtheFather showed His great love for us by sending You, Lord Jesus, to die for us while we were still sinners. As a response to Your great love for us, we now put our whole trust in You! And because of Your saving work we no longer live under the fear of condemnation. E
trespasses, we are now made alive together with You, Jesus—by grace we have been saved—and we have been raised up and have been seated with You in heavenly places, so that in the coming
ven though we were dead in our
ages we might be shown the immeasurable riches of Your grace and kindness.
Living Word inspires us to be all that You have created us to be. Halleluiah!
Father God, Jesus the
Who is Jesus Christ to you? What is your relationship like with Him? ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________
Holy Spirit, inspire us to always remember that Jesus is our Godly Brother who is ascended and seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty where He lives to ever make intercession for us. Remind us to love and appreciate Him. Remind us to confess our love for You, Holy Spirit, and our Heavenly Father, God, and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We yield to be led and guided in our daily
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confession to share as witnesses the goodness of Christ with our families, friends, co-workers and enemies. Most of all, Holy Spirit, remind us that we have a new nature in Christ. Remind us that our self-esteem, both spiritually and mentally, is centered solely in Jesus Christ.
Father, forgive us for not fully pursuing the knowledge of the sacrifice Christ made for our freedom and for not fully appreciating the finished work signaled by His ascension. Forgive us for our overt and covert acts of sin, including stubbornness, arrogance, selfishness, ungratefulness, pride and rebellion. Holy Spirit, inspire our Church Family members who have drifted back into old bondages and enslaved mentalities to know that God forgives those who come before Him out of a pure heart
and ask for forgiveness.
Father, 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 us not to yield to temptation but deliver them from the evil one.
Eternal God, You are mighty and strong. You are the One and Only Creator above all. You are Jehovah Jireh, our God who provides! King above all kings! Jesus, You are God’s Worthy Lamb, slain as God’s sacrifice for the sin of the world. You have all authority, power, riches, wisdom, strength, honor, glory and blessing in heaven and earth. Honor, glory and power belong to You, the One sitting at God’s right hand on the throne. You are the Lamb forever and ever. In Your mighty Name, Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 118:1, Exodus 6:7, Romans 5:19, Philippians 4:7, John 11:40, Romans 5:1-11, II Corinthians 5:21, II Peter 1:4, I Corinthians 11:23-29, Colossians 1:23; Ephesians 2; Hebrews 2:1, Galatians 4:4-5, II Corinthians 9:10, I Timothy 6:17, Revelation 5:12-13, Revelation 22:3-5
4. Concepts to Consider:
The Ascension of Jesus is not a mere after-thought or a post-script to the Resurrection. It is the culmination of all that Jesus came to do on earth. Without the Ascension the final piece of God’s work in reuniting heaven and earth in Jesus was not complete. As He ascends, Jesus’ status as the Human One who is also the Divine One comes into full view. The unveiled reality of His reign as King of kings and Lord of lords is put on magnificent display. The same “Pillar of Cloud” that escorted the children of Israel across the desert and the same “Cloud” that filled the Holy of Holies in the temple is revealed to be none other than the glorious Presence of Jesus Himself! What’s more, as He ascends (following the pattern of Elijah) He commissions His followers to carry on His work empowered by His Spirit. The Ascension kicks off the final countdown to Pentecost...
5. Reflections:
1. In these last ten days before Pentecost, what are you expecting the Lord to reveal or bring to glorious reality in your life? In your family? In the world?
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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 #9: (May 31, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We long for You...” As you exhale, whisper, “...our Helper and Spirit of Truth.”
2. Scripture Reading:
(John 14:15-17
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Prayer of Thanksgiving for the Holy Spirit
”
“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you
another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it
neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.
, ESV)
Heavenly Father, we thank You for saving us through the sacrifice of Your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. We thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to instruct, guide, teach and comfort us. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for empowering us to be effective witnesses for Jesus Christ and being God’s guarantee for the inheritance He promised. Because of You, this guarantee includes that we have been purchased to be His own people. Hallel YAH! Father God, we praise You, our Savior. Each day You carry us in Your arms. You are the God who saves, the Sovereign Lord who rescues us from death. We will sing to You, the One who rides across the ancient heavens; Your mighty voice thunders from the sky. We will tell everyone about Your power. Your majesty shines down on Israel; Your strength is mighty in the heavens. You are awesome in Your sanctuary!
Mighty God, we have not received a spirit that makes us fearful slaves; instead, we have received Your Spirit when You adopted us as Your children. We confess that the same Holy Spirit who resurrected Jesus from the dead now dwells within us. It is the Holy Spirit who gives life to our mortal bodies, just as He gave life to Christ and raised Him from the dead. We decree that You, Holy Spirit, are our Comforter and our Helper. You are Holy. We depend on You to remind us of everything Jesus taught while He lived on the earth. You are God’s power source, and You are the Teacher of all truth. We thank You for being God’s Representative in the earth, the One through whom God relates to all believers, the Producer of the Fruit of the Spirit and our Advocate. We love You, Holy Spirit, and thank You for working through us to perform miracles, signs and wonders so that people will experience the Kingdom of God. As a Church Family, we confess that we will not be filled with wine, but we will be filled with the Holy Spirit; singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among ourselves and making music to the Lord in our hearts.
Holy Spirit, continue to lead and guide our lives. As we study God’s Word, reveal the Kingdom of God to us and within us and help us to share the Kingdom in this dark world. Show us those areas in our personal lives that we need to get in order so that we will not bring You sorrow by the way we live. Help us to get rid of all bitterness, unforgiveness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, show us how to be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God has forgiven us through Christ Jesus.
Holy Spirit, show me which of the fruit of the Spirit that I have yet to cultivate and help me to mature in that area:
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_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ _____
Heavenly Father, forgive those who deny the existence or power of the Holy Spirit. Forgive those who have discouraged others from embracing the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Forgive us for not completely yielding control of our lives to the Holy Spirit. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Almighty God, the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it all belong to You. You are the God of gods and Lord of lords. You are the great God, the mighty and awesome God who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed. You alone are worthy of praise because You alone perform such great miracles. In the majestic Name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen!
Scripture References for the Written Text: Acts 1:8, Ephesians 1:14, Psalm 68:19-20,33-35, Romans 8:15, Romans 8:11, John 14:16, John 14:26, John 16:13, Ephesians 5:18-19, Ephesians 4:30-32, Matthew 6:13, Deuteronomy 10:14,17-21
4. Concepts to Consider:
In the Gospel of John, as Jesus prepares for His death, He gives His disciples final instructions and encouragement. The greatest Promise He provides, of course, is the universal out-pouring of the Holy Spirit. Jesus says that the disciples know Him already (through Jesus) and that He is with them (Immanuel) and will also be in them. This Spirit is His Presence. These interwoven descriptors signal the Triune nature of God. The Holy Spirit is a separate Person from Jesus (“He will be in you”), and He also shares the same Divine Essence or “God-ness” with Jesus (“you already know Him”). What a mighty God we serve, that He does not leave us as orphans (John 14:18) to fend for ourselves, but He walks with us along every step of the way!
5. Reflections:
1. Take a moment to reflect on any area(s) of your life where you may feel alone. Next, take each area and lift it up to the Lord by saying aloud, “I am NOT alone in _______________ (state your area where you feel alone). Jesus, are with me. Your Spirit is my Helper. You are my Truth. I will walk with You, even if I don’t fully understand everything that’s happening right now. I put my trust in You.”
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #8: (June 1, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We are not alone...” As you exhale, whisper, “...You are our Life.”
2. Scripture Reading:
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
“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see Me no more, but you
will see Me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. Whoever has My commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves Me. And he who loves Me will
be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:18-21, ESV)
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and those who need a financial breakthrough to remember God’s Word of promise to those who trust Him. Make clear to them opportunities for jobs, education and promotions. Holy Spirit, please knit all the families of our nation closer together. Empower mothers and fathers, whether married or single, to be good parents, providers, protectors, and leaders of their homes. Let Your love, peace, wisdom, and understanding saturate our families. Unify our communities and help us to love one another.
Merciful Father, we repent on behalf of our nation for our many sins. We acknowledge that our actions have created problems that only You can solve. Forgive us for all sin, including disobedience, rebellion, greed, arrogance, selfish ambition, hypocrisy, jealousy, hatred, violence, injustice, ageism, sexism, racism, and dissension. Father, forgive us for shedding innocent blood and denying Your power. Father, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind all of us of those they need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, as a nation, help us not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
You are the Lord, our God, and there is no other. No one is holy like You. No one is besides You. There is not any rock like You. Lord, You are the King of kings and Lord of lords. You rule and reign forever. Now, unto You, the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 33:6-7, Daniel 2:20, Psalm 76:4, Psalm 47:9, Matthew 6:10, Psalm 127:1-2, John 14:6, John 12:32, Psalm 91:1-2,10-11, Acts 2:1-4, Matthew 6:13, I Samuel 2:2, Revelation 19:16, I Timothy 1:17
4. Concepts to Consider:
Yesterday we concentrated on the fact that in Jesus, by the Spirit, we are never alone. Hallelujah! Today we will explore what it means when one “has Jesus’ commandments and keeps them.” To “have” the teachings of Jesus implies that through the Spirit these teachings can now dwell in us (Ezekiel 36:27), they are no long “foreign objects” to us that our nature will reject. As we grow and learn His teachings they will now find a home in our transformed imagination and daily decision-making processes. Our sinful nature has been resurrected/re- created with Him. The followers of Jesus are being built up into the New Temple (2 Corinthians 6:16; Ephesians 2:19-22) that is called to spread out across the world. To “keep” the teachings of Christ means, of course, to obey them. To obey means more than rote, external, letter-of-the-law adherence. (Remember, our righteous must exceed that of the Pharisees, Matthew 5:20) Obedience means to depend utterly on the Spirit to help us live as God intends. We can’t, all by ourselves, muster up the will-power to bear down and “just do it.” It is the grace and Spirit of God that enables our broken nature to come into alignment with God’s original design specifications for us as human beings, made in His Image.
5. Reflections:
1. How does knowing that the Holy Spirit is there to help us follow the teachings of Jesus offer a fresh perspective on what it means to “keep God’s commandments?”
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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 #7: (June 2, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Give us Your eyes...” As you exhale, whisper, “...to see You as You really are.”
2. Scripture Reading:
3. Kingdom Prayer:
John 14:22-24
“Judas (not Iscariot) said to [Jesus], “Lord, how is it that You will manifest Yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word, and My Father will love him, and We
will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love Me does not keep My words. And the
word that you hear is not Mine but the Father's who sent Me.” (
, ESV)
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 thatYouarefaithfulandjusttoforgivemeandwillcleansemefromallunrighteousness. Lord,IsubmittoYou, my spirit, soul, and body. In Jesus Christ, I have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.
List the people that you know who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Ask the Holy Spirit for the wisdom to witness to them. Trust Him to give you the courage to approach them and the words to say to them. _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Eternal Father, we ask You to clear the way so that Your Gospel may be preached in every city, state, country, and continent. Since the harvest is plentiful, please send laborers to proclaim Your Word of salvation. Father, as Your Word goes forth, touch the hearts of the unsaved to receive it. Circumcise the heart of every man, woman, boy, and girl and draw them to You. Lord, surround them with the counsel of the Godly so that they may be washed in the water of Your Word; putting away the old man and putting on the new. Father, please give me the courage and boldness to witness to the unsaved. Holy Spirit, help me to live in such a way that the light of Christ shines in my private and public life.
Holy Father, forgive the unsaved for not acknowledging You or Your Son. Forgive them for disobedience, hatred, rebellion, murder, idolatry, sexual immorality, greed, racism, injustice, violence, and rejection of Your Gospel. Please have mercy upon them and extend Your grace towards them. Lord, forgive us as a Church
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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:
The “other Judas,” or ”Yudah” in Aramaic, has the courage to ask the question that many followers of Jesus ask today, “So, exactly how will we know it’s really You when You reveal Yourself?” Jesus answers clearly, “Love Me; and as you learn to love Me you will be able to see Me more clearly through the interpretation of the Torah that I have given you. I will come alive to you.” Jesus is the Living Torah and His “light” will push out the darkness of our “false selves.” As we discussed yesterday, we are not alone in trying to “keep” God’s commands. The Holy Spirit enables us to love and to follow.
Pragmatically speaking, when we love something or someone, we treasure and honor it/them. Above all else, we must learn (this is a process) to treasure and honor Jesus. As we work on our relationship with Jesus by opening ourselves to the restorative work of His Spirit, then we are able to stay “inside the fence” of God’s teachings and desires for us. Obedience flows from restored relationship. When we are becoming more restored in our relationship with God then we have more capacity to love others (including the difficult ones!) and begin to rightly love ourselves.
5. Reflections:
1. Take some time to examine your life in Christ. Try Lectio Divina (guide: http://b.link/lectio1) with John 14:22- 24 as a means of allowing Jesus to reveal Himself to you.
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #6 (June 3, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “Jesus, we breathe in...” As you exhale, whisper, “...Your Shalom.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video:
3. Kingdom Prayer:
A Declaration for Pointe 2.3.4.
” (John 14:25-27
http://b.link/god31
http://b.link/HRMultiDimensionalGod (long, scientific, 60+ min)
“These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to
you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts
be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
, ESV)
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!
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List what you enjoy most about Pointe 2.3.4. and give thanks to God for it:
_______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________
Holy Spirit, please surround each business entity with favor. Please continue to make their names great in the land and cause them to be among the first choice of venues for business, community and social gatherings. Holy Spirit, please continue to fill the business leaders and their employees with wisdom, discernment and creativity as they continue to move forward. Show them how to reach clients throughout the city of Houston and continue to supply all of their needs according to Your glorious riches by Christ Jesus. Holy Spirit, we ask that You would give creative ideas to the business leaders and show them how they can reach more clients in the community. Help them to always remain current on industry trends and developments. Remind them to
always provide first class, Godly customer service to help encourage repeat customers. Loving Father, we thank You for bringing forth all additional resources necessary for continual growth and development of Pointe 2.3.4.
MercifulFather,forgivethebusinessandorganizationalleadersforanysinstheyhavecommitted. Forgiveus all for any acts of rebellion and disobedience concerning this project. Forgive those in our Church Family for being ungrateful and unappreciative of what You are doing through our church. Forgive those of us for acting spoiled and arrogant. Forgive those for always wanting more and not counting their blessings. Father, forgive those of us for not frequenting the businesses within Pointe 2.3.4. Forgive those for taking these services and opportunities for granted. Forgive them if they have not sought Your divine purpose and plan for their businesses. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us all of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help us all not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Triumphant Lord, all glory belongs to You, who alone are God. All glory, majesty, power and authority are Yours before all time and in the present and beyond all time! In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 135:3,5-6, James 1:17, Psalm 100:4, Psalm 5:12, Genesis 12:2, Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:13, Jude 25
4. Concepts to Consider:
One of the great benefits of life in the Holy Spirit is that He can help us remember the teachings of Jesus. The catch is that we must first have read and studied His Word. The more we study and learn the more the Holy Spirit has to draw on for use in our daily lives and in the ongoing work of the church in the world.
Also, we once again see in this passage the interdependent yet unmingled Triune God. The Father sends the Spirit in coordination with the still-active character and personality (the “Name”) of Jesus. Everyone in the Godhead has roles and Personhood that is neither diminished nor subordinated to or by any Other. Yet, all share the same Nature or Essence. This is the complex yet unified creating and re-creating God who invites us into loving relationship. Cool.
5. Reflections:
1. Can you recall a time that the Holy Spirit reminded you of something you’d learned that helped you? Take a moment to write it down and thank the Lord!
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2. How does knowing that God (the Source of infinite love) invites you into wholesome, loving relationship make you feel today?
3. What would it look like to share this love with other people today?
Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #5 (June 4, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We will arise...” As you exhale, whisper, “...and follow You.”
2. Scripture Reading:
For further consideration: Video: http://b.link/BoldTVTrinity 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
“You heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved Me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on Me, but I do as the Father has commanded Me, so that the world may know that I
love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.”
(John 14:28-31, ESV)
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spend time with their children and impart Godly values and wisdom into them so that when they have grown up, they will not depart from Your ways. Help our married couples to honor one another and not take each other for granted. Keep the lines of communication open in these marriage so that the marriage bed will not be defiled. Help our married couples to honor their marriage vows and not be so quick to look for a way out when things get difficult.
Merciful Father, please forgive our American families for sin. Forgive us for allowing our jobs to be a greater priority than our families. Forgive us for taking our loved ones for granted. Forgive us for not praying for our family members consistently. Forgive us for strife, anger, envy, jealousy, adultery and for verbal or physical abuse within our homes. Lord, forgive me for (list any sins that you have committed). Holy Spirit, remind us all of those we need to forgive and help us to be quick to forgive. As for me, Holy Spirit, bring to my remembrance those I need to forgive. (Take a moment and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal names or faces of people that you may need to forgive. As He reveals them, say, “I forgive name of person(s).” Now, trust the Lord to heal any wounds in your soul caused by unforgiveness.)
Holy Spirit, help our families not to yield to temptation but deliver us from the evil one.
Sovereign Lord, You are King! You are robed in majesty and armed with strength. The world stands firm and cannot be shaken. Your throne has stood from time immemorial. You are from the everlasting past. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture References for the Written Text: Psalm 5:12, Psalm 51:1 NKJV, Psalm 136:1, Psalm 147:5, Psalm 145:1, Psalm 8:2-4, Ephesians 6:12, Ephesians 6:11, I Corinthians 7:7, Genesis 1:28, Ephesians 5:21, Ephesians 6:1-4, Proverbs 22:6, Hebrews 13:4, Matthew 6:13, Psalm 93:1-2
4. Concepts to Consider:
OK, so hold up. What does it mean when Jesus says, “the Father is greater than I?” Is Jesus subordinate to the Father? Is He “less than” in some way? Here is where context is truly everything. If you read the near context and the Gospel of John as a whole, you realize pretty quickly that Jesus is not jettisoning His equality with God in essence or nature (John 1:1-4; John 10:30; John 17:23). His statement is one of humility and a posture of obedience that He is exemplifying for His followers. (pro tip: it is possible to submit to authority without becoming subordinate to it.) People in Christ, unified by the Spirit, can have different roles and levels of authority in this world yet still operate as one in Christ (Galatians 2:11-22; 3:28). The “bottom line” answer, therefore, to Jesus’ paradoxical statement is that the Father is only “greater” than Him in office or role, not substance.
5. Reflections:
In Philippians 2 the Apostle Paul tags onto John’s ideas about radical love and radical unity being demonstrated through radical humility. “Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of Himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of Himself that He had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, He set aside the privileges of Deity and took on the status of a [servant]; became human! Having become human, He stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, He lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion. Because of that obedience, God lifted Him high and honored Him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise
that He is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father!”
1. How does the call to pursue radical unity through radical love and humility challenge us today in our highly divisive world, even in the church?
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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 #4 (June 5, 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:
Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a Shoot—
yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root.
And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him—
the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and might,
the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.
He will delight in obeying the LORD.
He will not judge by appearance
nor make a decision based on hearsay.
He will give justice to the poor
and make fair decisions for the exploited.
The earth will shake at the force of His Word,
and one breath from His mouth will destroy the wicked.
He will wear righteousness like a belt
and truth like an undergarment.
(Isaiah 11:1-5, NLT) For further consideration: Video:
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.
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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.
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:
In Romans 15:12, the Apostle Paul seeks to proclaim that the reign of Jesus empowered by the Holy Spirit is the glorious fulfillment of the song of the “Shoot of Jesse” found in Isaiah 11. In Jesus, all the world--both Jew and Gentile--finds their ultimate hope. God is “sprouting” a new people (composed of both the ancient Israelite root stock and the “wild olive branch” of “the nations”) in Jesus Christ. Paul closes out his argument near the end of his letter to the Romans with a beautiful prayer of benediction that we can claim as our own today. He says, “I
5. Reflections:
1. What areas or persons in your life need some hope today? Take a little time to pray Paul’s prayer, inserting the area/person into the text. “I pray that You, God the Source of all our hope, will fill __________________ (name the area/person that needs hope) completely with joy and peace because we trust in You. You will overflow ________________________(name the area/person) with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.”
completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of
the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13, NLT)
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pray that God, the Source of hope, will fill you


Optional Time of Centering/Soaking:
If possible, take some time, perhaps 5 to 15 minutes, to get into a comfortable position and simply allow the Lord to minister to you at a deep level (Psalm 42:7). Turn off or put down all distractions. Close your eyes. Hold in your thoughts a meaningful word, phrase, or image from the Scripture you read today. Release all other thoughts and concerns into the Presence of the Lord. If your thoughts wander, that’s okay, just gently return to your Scriptural word, phrase, or image. You may want to set a timer.
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Counting Down the Omer, Day #3 (June 6, 2019)
1. Center Down
Our breath prayer for today: As you inhale, whisper, “We rejoice, Jesus...” As you exhale, whisper, “...that You are the Chosen One.”
2. Scripture Reading:
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 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.
“Then John [the baptizer] testified, ‘I saw the Holy Spirit descending like a dove from heaven and resting upon
Him. I didn’t know He was the One, but when God sent me to baptize with water, He told me, “The One on
whom you see the Spirit descend and rest is the One who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.” I saw this happen
to Jesus, so I testify that He is the Chosen One of God.’”
(John 1:32-34, ESV)
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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 the imagery and words surrounding Jesus upon the occasion of His baptism we see a number of theophanic (“God- appearance”) elements converging. The voice of the Father, the hovering dove of the Spirit, and the Word made flesh all appearing together evokes Creation (Genesis 1:1-2 ) as well as the institution of a new era evidenced by the dove that brought signs of life and hope to Noah after the flood (Genesis 8:11). Additionally, John the baptizer was looking for a specific set of Scripturally-based, Spirit-revealed signs that would indicate the arrival of “the Holy One of God” Who would “baptize” or “douse/pour out” the Holy Spirit on the people of God, a long-anticipated hope among the People called Israel (Isaiah 32:15; Isaiah 44:3; Ezekiel 39:29; Joel 2:28-29). As we near the imminent celebration of Pentecost ask the Lord to sharpen your spiritual eyes and ears to be able to see and hear evidence of the re- creating work of the Holy Spirit happening in and around you. “And He Who was seated on the throne said, ‘Behold, I am making all things new.’” (Revelation 21:5, ESV).
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5. Reflections:
1. What needs some re-creation/renovation in your life or world? Lift those things up to the Lord right now. Breathe in the re-creating presence of the Holy Spirit. Exhale any fear and anxiety. Lean into the Presence of the Lord. Breathe in.... Exhale.... Breathe in.... Exhale....
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 #2 (June 7, 2019)
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:
At one time, the whole Earth spoke the same language. It so happened that as they moved out of the east, they
came upon a plain in the land of Shinar and settled down.
They said to one another, “Come, let’s make bricks and fire them well.” They used brick for stone and tar for mortar.
Then they said, “Come, let’s build ourselves a city and a tower that reaches Heaven. Let’s make ourselves famous so we won’t be scattered here and there across the Earth.”
GOD came down to look over the city and the tower those people had built.
GOD took one look and said, “One people, one language; why, this is only a first step. No telling what they’ll come up with next—they’ll stop at nothing! Come, we’ll go down and garble their speech so they won’t understand each other.” Then GOD scattered them from there all over the world. And they had to quit building the city. That’s how it came to be called Babel, because there GOD turned their language into “babble.” From there GOD scattered them all over the world.
(Genesis 11:1-9, MSG)
For further consideration: Video:
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.
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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 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:
Genesis 11 records the point in human history when God had to mitigate and dilute the concentration of potential human mischief and arrogance by giving them various languages, thus forcing them to spread out over the earth, as they had initially been commissioned to do (Genesis 1:28).
Acts 2 records the point in human history when God sought to bring the scattered nations and languages into “one accord” through the universal out-pouring of His Spirit. Further, we see in the Book of Revelation the culmination of this hope as, “
5. Reflections:
1. This is the final day before “Holy-Spirit Re-Launch” and the celebration of Pentecost commences tomorrow evening and all day Sunday. What areas of confusion or misunderstanding need to be brought before the Lord and given a Holy Spirit re-boot?
every tribe and language and people and nation [are invited to be] made [into] a kingdom and priests to our
God,
and they shall reign on the earth.” (Revelation 5:9, ESV)
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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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