“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Open Your Eyes!

“’Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered. ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’  And Elisha prayed, ‘O LORD, open his eyes so he may see.’ Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”
2 Kings 6:16-17 (NIV)

As we turn the page of the calendar and begin a new year, this week’s prayer focus is about the need to open our eyes.  As an amateur photographer, I constantly find things that are “hidden in plain sight” — things that are often missed because no one is looking for them.  As we walk with God, it is important that we ask Him to open our eyes to the work He is doing — work that is often unnoticed by us as it takes place in the heavenly realms.  When we pray with our eyes wide open, we allow our prayers to align with God’s will and desire so that we join with Him in the work He has called us to do.  As you pray this week, ask God to open your eyes to see Him.  Pray that you would see God more clearly, others more fully, and yourself more accurately.  Pray that you would live with open eyes as you interact with God and with people.  Pray that your open eyes would help you to see others as God sees them — and yourself as God sees you.  Pray that God’s presence would always be noticed by you and through you.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God to open your eyes to the things He would have you see.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Open Your Eyes to Your Need.  Pray that you would see the nakedness that is brought about by sin.  Pray that your eyes would be open to your need for a lasting covering that only  God can provide.  “Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they realized they were naked; so they sewed fig leaves together and made coverings for themselves.”  Genesis 3:7 (NIV)

Tuesday: Open Your Eyes to God’s Provision.  Pray that your eyes would be opened in order to see God’s provision in your life.  Pray that you would see how you could be the instrument of God’s provision in the lives of others.  “Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink.”  Genesis 21:19 (NIV)

Wednesday: Open Your Eyes to God’s Messengers.  Pray that God would open your eyes to see the messages that He delivers.  Pray that you would respond with appropriate worship to the message of  God’s Word.  “Then the LORD opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road with his sword drawn. So he bowed low and fell facedown.”  Numbers 22:31 (NIV)

Thursday: Open Your Eyes to Wonder.  Pray that your eyes would be opened in order to see the incredible wonder that God delivers each day through His Word and through creation.  Pray that your eyes would be opened in a way that sees God’s law in a whole new light.  “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.”  Psalm 119:18 (NIV)

Friday: Open Your Eyes to  God’s Promises.  Pray that you would see God’s promises as you meditate on His Word.  Pray that you would never tire of looking into the Word of God to consider the incredible promises God makes to His children.  “My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises.”  Psalm 119:148 (NIV)

Saturday:  Open Your Eyes to the Harvest.  Pray that your eye would be open to the opportunities that exist around you to share the gospel message.  Pray that you would see the urgency of sharing Jesus with the people around you.  “Do you not say, ‘Four months more and then the harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”  John 4:35 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: The Greatest Gift!

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails.  And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13 (NIV)

The greatest gift of Christmas is the one God gave to mankind when His love was expressed in the sending of Jesus to save people from their sins.  This week our prayer focus will be about our expression of that greatest gift as we experience and share God’s love with others.  The world has tried to define and explain love in a lot of ways, but nothing comes close to matching Jesus as the definition and 1 Corinthians 13 as the explanation.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you experience the greatest gift ever given.  Pray that you would learn to love in the way that God has loved.  Pray for the courage to grow in the attributes of true love.  Pray that you would live with the Christmas spirit all year as you love others as Christ has loved you.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in receiving and giving the greatest gift of love.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Love That is Patient and Kind.  Pray that God’s kindness would be expressed to others as you patiently show them His love.  Pray that you would experience, and show to others, a love that longs for people to be right with God.  “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

Tuesday: Love That is Humble.  Pray that you would experience the grace of God as you humbly love the people around you.  Pray that God would remove the pride from your life that causes love to not be expressed.  “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’”  1 Peter 5:5 (NIV)

Wednesday: Love That Cares About Others.  Pray that you would take the time to learn about the true needs of the people around you.  Pray that your desire would be to express love that truly cares about the needs of others above your own.  “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”  Philippians 2:4 (NIV)

Thursday: Love That is Truthful.  Pray that you would always be mindful about how your words and actions match . . . or don’t match.   Pray that the love you have received from Christ would be shared with others in ways that are practical and in words that are truthful. “Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.”  1 John 3:18 (NIV)

Friday: Love That Overcomes.  Pray that you would be filled with a love from God that helps you to overcome the trials of life.  Pray that the love you share with others would help them to persevere through difficulties.  “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”  James 1:12 (NIV)

Saturday:  Love That Never Fails.  Pray that you would fully know the love of God that never fails.  Pray that you would grow in compassion as you express your love for others in ways that do not fail.  “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.”  Lamentations 3:22 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Living With Joy!

“If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.  I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.”
John 15:10-11 (NIV)

As we continue in this Christmas season, my thoughts return to the words of the angel to the shepherds long ago, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”  This week’s prayer focus will be about how we live with the presence of that great joy and how we let the joy of Christ be seen in us each day that we live.  The joy that comes from a relationship with Christ should supersede the circumstances that we face each day.  In fact, one day this week we will pray specifically about considering it pure joy when we face trials of many kinds.  As you pray this week, ask God to reveal His joy in you so that you would reveal His joy to the people around you.  Pray that you would live with a joy produced by God’s Spirit that doesn’t depend on circumstances.  Pray that your joy would be made complete through your obedience to the commands of God.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in living with joy.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Joy That Produces Generosity.  Pray that you would have a joy that is not dependent on your possessions.  Pray that the joy you have in Christ would result in great generosity toward others.  “Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.”  2 Corinthians 8:2  (NIV)

Tuesday: Joy That Comes From God’s Spirit.  Pray that you would allow God’s Spirit to produce a joy in you such that nothing could stand against it.  Pray that your joy would be expressed to others in ways that reveal God’s Spirit in you.  “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”  Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

Wednesday: Joy That Is Complete.  Pray that you would know a joy that is complete by being united with others in Christ.  Pray that God would help you to live with the attitude of Christ in order to have a joy that is complete.  “Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”  Philippians 2:2 (NIV)

Thursday: Joy In the Midst of Trials.  Pray that you would look beyond the hardships of various trials and be able to see the joy God wants you to have.  Pray that your joy would grow as you see how God uses trials in your life to increase your faith.  “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.”  James 1:2 (NIV)

Friday: Joy From a Faith in Christ.  Pray that your faith in Christ would produce joy that is beyond words.  Pray that your love of Jesus would be expressed with such joy that others would seek Him.  “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.”  1 Peter 1:8 (NIV)

Saturday:  Joy In Seeing Others Walk in Truth.  Pray that you would know the joy of instructing others in how to walk in the truth of God’s Word.  Pray that your children — whether physical, spiritual, or both — would always walk in the truth and bring you great joy.  “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 1:4 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Peace!

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:27 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis is about peace.  As Jesus taught His disciples, He promised to give peace that would be different from what the world could offer.  Unfortunately, we have a tendency to pursue peace according to the world’s standards rather than knowing a peace that only God can give.  The world says that peace comes by a removal of all conflict while Jesus offers peace in the midst of conflict.  The prince of this world is waging a war that has already been won by Jesus.  Part of his goal is to disrupt the peace that God gives you so you become fearful and filled with worry.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you accept the peace that He gives.  Pray that you would do your best to resolve conflict, but also know a peace even when others keep conflict alive.  Pray that you would live as a peacemaker as you represent the One who made peace between you and God.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in living with peace.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Peace That Transcends Understanding.  Pray that you would accept a peace that comes from God even when it surpasses your understanding.  Pray that you would allow God’s peace to guard both your heart and your mind.  “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

Tuesday: Peace That Rules Your Heart.  Pray that your emotions and actions would be ruled by the peace that comes from Christ.  Pray that you would live up to your calling in Christ to be at peace with one another.  “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”  Colossians 3:15 (NIV)

Wednesday: Peace That is Just Right.  Pray that you would know a peace that is just right in all times and all places.  Pray that God’s presence would be evident in your life as He makes His peace known to you in a variety of ways.  “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”  2 Thessalonians 3:16 (NIV)

Thursday: Peace That Takes Effort.  Pray that you would work in all ways to live at peace with the people around you.  Pray that your efforts in pursuing peace would lead you to holiness that prepares you to be in God’s presence.  “Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”  Hebrews 12:14 (NIV)

Friday: Peace That is Sown.  Pray that you would be aware of the seeds of peace which have been sown in your life.  Pray that you would live as a peacemaker who sows those same seeds of God’s peace into the lives of others.  “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.”  James 3:18 (NIV)

Saturday:  Peace That is Sought.  Pray that you would turn from the evil which is at odds with true peace.  Pray for the courage and desire to seek a peace that will overcome evil.  Pray that you would pursue peace as you do the good God has created for you to do.  “He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it.”  1 Peter 3:11 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Living With Hope!

“There is one body and one Spirit — just as you were called to one hope when you were called — one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”
Ephesians 4:4-6 (NIV)

I pray that you continue to be thankful throughout each day that God gives you.  One of the reasons we have for being thankful is the hope that we have in Christ.  A Christian’s hope is all about a confident expectation that God has, does, and always will keep His promises.  Our prayer focus this week will be centered around living with hope.  In the above passage, God says that hope is one of the things Christians have in common that should unite us.  As you pray this week, spend time reflecting on true hope — the hope that is found through Jesus Christ.  Pray that you would seek greater unity with fellow believers because of your common hope.  Pray that you would have such confidence through your hope in Christ that it would fill you with the courage to share that hope with others.  Pray that your hope would be based on the things God has done as you look forward to the things He will do.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in living with hope.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Living With the Hope of Glory.  Pray that Christ’s presence in you would fill you with the hope of glory.  Pray that you would be involved in making others aware of the glorious riches that are a mystery to those without Christ.  “To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”  Colossians 1:27  (NIV)

Tuesday: Living With Hope that Inspires.  Pray that your hope in Christ would inspire you to endure all things as you live a life in Christ.  Pray that this hope would be an inspiration to others as they see your hope put into action.  “We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”  1 Thessalonians 1:3 (NIV)

Wednesday: Living With Hope that is Steadfast.  Pray that God’s faithfulness would cause your hope to remain steady through all things.  Pray that you would hold onto the promises of God as you refuse to waiver in proclaiming your hope in Him.  “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”  Hebrews 10:23 (NIV)

Thursday: Living With Hope that Prepares You.  Pray that hope would always be part of your preparation for the actions God is calling  you to take.  Pray that hope would prepare you fully for the grace to be given when Christ is fully revealed.  Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.”  1 Peter 1:13 (NIV)

Friday: Living With Hope that Has a Reason.  Pray that you would always be aware of the reason for the hope within you.  Pray that you would always be ready to share that reason in appropriate ways.  “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.”  1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

Saturday:  Living With Hope that Purifies.  Pray that you would allow the hope of God within you to purify your life.  Pray that the hope of Christ in you would be as pure as He is.  “Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure.”  1 John 3:3 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Being Content!

“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”
Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV)

It is amazing how quickly a focus on Thanksgiving turns to a pursuit of “stuff” here in the United States.  We immediately follow Thanksgiving Day with “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday” where many people run out to buy the “latest and greatest stuff” that they absolutely have to have.  In fact, it has gotten to where many can’t even wait to finish a day of thanks before they run out to find the latest and best bargain possible.  Fights often break out and credit card debt piles up as we soon forget all that we were thankful for just a few hours earlier.  It’s not that there is anything wrong with wanting to get the best value we can in purchasing the things we need and want to provide for our family; but contentment is found, or not found, in our attitude and motives in everything we do.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you examine your level of contentment.  Pray that your motivation in obtaining the things you have would always be pure.  Pray that your contentment would be centered in your relationship with God and not be based on material things you have or don’t have.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in being content.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Being Content in Rest.  Pray that you would live with a life-giving fear of the Lord that keeps trouble from defining who you are.  Pray that you are able to be content in rest as you trust God to handle your troubles.  “The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.”  Proverbs 19:23  (NIV)

Tuesday: Being Content with Your Income.  Pray that you would be content enough with your income that you are not using sinful ways to increase it.  Pray that your efforts to increase your income would always be done with an attitude of contentment with what God provides.  “He replied, ‘Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely — be content with your pay.’”  Luke 3:14 (NIV)

Wednesday: Being Content in All Circumstances.  Pray that you would learn contentment in the midst of all circumstances even as you seek God’s help in changing some of them.  Pray that your requests of others would be pure and not come from a spirit of discontentment.  “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.”  Philippians 4:11 (NIV)

Thursday: Being Content with Godliness.  Pray that your pursuit of godliness would be filled with contentment.  Pray that you would know the “great gain” God promises as you pursue Him from a heart filled with contentment.  “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”  1 Timothy 6:6 (NIV)

Friday: Being Content with Necessities.  Pray that  you would know and understand the difference between necessities and wants.  Pray that even in the pursuit of the things you want, you would learn to be content with having what you need.  “But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.”  1 Timothy 6:8 (NIV)

Saturday:  Being Content with God’s Presence.  Pray that you would live with a confidence of God’s presence always being with you.  Pray that you would learn contentment with what you have as you realize there is nothing greater than knowing God will never leave you.  “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”  Hebrews 13:5 (NIV)

Bonus thought:  Pray that your contentment would be visible in the way you share with others.

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Giving Thanks!

“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

As we approach the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday, our prayer focus this week will be on giving thanks.  As with the vast majority, if not all, of these prayer guides this is not something that we should pray about for a week and then dismiss.  God’s desire is that we give thanks in all circumstances at all times.  Giving thanks shows our appreciation not only for what God has done, but for what He is doing and what He will do.  This week we will focus each day on something different the Bible says God’s people should give thanks for.  As you pray, examine your typical level of thankfulness and ask God to help you grow in gratitude.  Pray that you would grow in a godly reputation of being a thankful person.  Pray that you would be diligent about looking for things to be thankful for in all circumstances.  Pray that the life you live would be reason for others to be thankful.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in being a thankful person.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday: Give Thanks for God’s Righteousness.  Pray that you would be thankful because of the righteous work of God in Jesus.  Pray that God’s righteousness would fill you with a gratitude that leads to praise.  “I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness and will sing praise to the name of the LORD Most High.”  Psalm 7:17 (NIV)

Tuesday: Give Thanks for God’s Presence.  Pray that you would live with an awareness of God’s presence at all times.  Pray that the work of God in your life would make you thankful for His presence.  “We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks, for your Name is near; men tell of your wonderful deeds.”  Psalm 75:1 (NIV)

Wednesday: Give Thanks for God’s Goodness.  Pray that you would both receive and acknowledge God’s goodness in your life.  Pray that thankfulness would always be your response to God’s goodness and love.  “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.”  Psalm 118:1 (NIV)

Thursday: Give Thanks for a Kingdom Inheritance.  Pray that you would be filled with gratitude as you consider how God has qualified you for an eternal inheritance.  Pray that you would be thankful for all those who will share in this inheritance.  “Giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light.”  Colossians 1:12 (NIV)

Friday: Give Thanks for the Work God Gives You.  Pray that you would recognize God’s hand in providing with the opportunities for all you do.  Pray that you would be thankful for every word and deed that God allows you to do through Jesus.  “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”  Colossians 3:17 (NIV)

Saturday:  Give Thanks for Everyone.  Pray that you would find ways to follow God’s instruction to be thankful for everyone.  Pray that your level of thankfulness would contribute greatly to a peaceful and quiet life.  “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”  1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Stewardship!

“For who makes you different from anyone else?  What do you have that you did not receive?  And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?”
1 Corinthians 4:7 (NIV)

This week’s prayer focus is about God’s desire that we live as stewards of His.  Perhaps the most difficult part of doing that is the first hurdle of acknowledging His ownership of everything.  Many people hear the word stewardship and their first reaction is to tune out the person speaking because “they’re just wanting my money.”  There are two problems with that thought — one, it assumes stewardship is only about money; and two, it assumes your ownership of whatever money, or anything else, you’ve been entrusted with.  Godly stewardship recognizes that we do not have anything that we have not received from God, and what we have received God expects us to use for the benefit of others as He advances His kingdom through us.  As you pray this week, ask God to fill you with His perspective on the purpose of “things”.  Pray that you would seek to be a good steward as you spend time listening for how the Owner would want His things used . . . and yes, that includes the money that you think is yours.  Pray that you would learn to live with a loose grip on the things you have been entrusted with.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in being a faithful steward of all He entrusts you with.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday:  Stewardship of People.  Pray that you would be known as both faithful and sensible in the way you deal with the people God surrounds you with.  Pray that part of your stewardship would involve giving to others as they have need.  “And the Lord said, ‘Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time?’”  Luke 12:42 (NASB)

Tuesday:  Stewardship of God’s Mysteries.  Pray that you would recognize the mysteries of God that He has entrusted you with.  Pray that even when the nature of God remains mysterious, you would be known as one who is a good steward of those mysteries.  “Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.”  1 Corinthians 4:1 (NASB)

Wednesday:  Stewardship that is Trustworthy.  Pray that the way in which you use the things God has entrusted you with would be worthy of His trust.  Pray that others would know you as trustworthy because of the visible way you use the resources you have received from God.  “In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.”  1 Corinthians 4:2 (NASB)

Thursday:  Stewardship of God’s Word.  Pray that you would view God’s Word as a valuable resource He expects you to be a wise steward of.  Pray that you would use God’s Word fully as you serve people.  “Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God.”  Colossians 1:25 (NASB)

Friday:  Stewardship that is Above Reproach.  Pray that you would be known as one who uses God’s resources for the good of others above your own.  Pray that your lifestyle would show you to be above reproach as you manage the things God has given you.  “For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain.”  Titus 1:7 (NASB)

Saturday:  Stewardship of God’s Grace.  Pray that you would know the gifting of God in your life and be a good steward of each aspect of that grace.  Pray that you would serve faithfully with the grace God has given you.  “As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”  1 Peter 4:10 (NASB)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Growing Strong!

 “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
Ephesians 6:10-11 (NIV)

This week’s prayer focus is about some important elements that we need to grow in as we seek to be strong in the Lord.  It is important to note that this strength is not of our own doing, but it is the power of God at work through our weaknesses.  But that doesn’t mean that we can sit back and take a passive role in growing strong.  No, God has work for us to do as we grow in the characteristics that His Spirit produces in our life.  We grow strong when we put on the full armor of God so that we are equipped to stand against the schemes of the devil.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you see strength from His perspective.  Pray that you would not only put on the full armor of God, but that you would check it each day to make sure you are still using it.  Pray that you would pursue the things of God that make you strong — not necessarily strong by the world’s standards, but strong according to God.  Pray for the wisdom to live with the strength only God can give.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in growing strong by His might power.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday:  Grow in Submission.  Pray that you would have the strength to submit not only to Christ, but also to the needs of others.  Pray that your strength will allow you to submit even when others fail due to weakness.  “We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.”  Romans 15:1 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Grow in Truth.  Pray that you would grow in godly strength as you pursue truth.  Pray that you would grow strong as you speak the truth in love and as you listen to truth spoken in love.  “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ.”  Ephesians 4:15 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Grow in Repentance.  Pray that you would grow strong as you learn to repent of sin and of all the times you fail to do what you have received and heard from God’s Word.  Pray that your strength in repentance would prepare you for the return of Jesus.  “Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; obey it, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.”  Revelation 3:3 (NIV)

Thursday:  Grow in Observing.  Pray that you would gain strength as you grow in the practice of observing the commands of God.  Pray that the strength of observing God’s laws would keep you from being afraid or discouraged as you learn success from God’s perspective.  “Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the LORD gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.”  1 Chronicles 22:13 (NIV)

Friday:  Grow Naturally.  Pray that you would have the strength to “wait upon the Lord” and grow naturally as you live life in Christ.  Pray that you would be filled with wisdom and strength as you enjoy the natural process of growing as a child of God.  “And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.”  Luke 2:40 (NIV)

Saturday:  Grow in Grace.  Pray that you would know the grace of God that is given through His Son, Jesus.  Pray that the grace you have received would be the grace you give to the people around you.  Pray that you would live with the strength that comes from sharing God’s grace with others.  “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”  2 Timothy 2:1 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

This week’s prayer focus: Things to Remember!

“And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things.”
2 Peter 1:15 (NIV)

This week’s prayer focus is about some things God wants us to remember.  Five years ago, I began writing these weekly prayer guides with a series called “A November to Remember”, where each day was focused on praying for specific people by name.  The idea was that when God’s people commit to praying for one another as we ought, the starting point would become a point of remembrance as we looked back and saw what God had begun.  Our forgetfulness doesn’t surprise God — throughout scripture we see Him instituting memorials and means for His people to remember the important things He has done for them.  This prayer guide is written with that in mind, to help you pray about some things to remember.  As you pray, ask God to help you use the reminders and memorials He has established so that you do not forget Him, nor the work He has called you to do.  Pray that your life would be lived in a way that shows that you not only remember the work of God, but that others would be able to remember His work by observing you.  Pray for the wisdom to correctly use the things God calls you to remember.  Pray each day for the individuals of your congregation and for the body of Christ as a whole.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Ephesians 6:18 (NIV) 

Please pray each day for God’s help in remembering the things He doesn’t want you to forget.

Sunday: Pray for your church staff, the preaching and teaching that takes place, the church leadership, the volunteers that are helping in so many areas, the spiritual and financial health of the congregation, and the work of the missions ministry of the church.  Pray for me (Tom Lemler) and the work of Impact Prayer Ministry.

Monday:  Remember the Mighty Works of God.  Pray that you would have a greater remembrance and understanding of the work God has already done in your life.  Pray that this remembrance would fill you will a greater boldness in your trust of Him.  “Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered?”  Matthew 16:9 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Remember to Be Generous.  Pray that you would remember that the “laws of nature” are really the way God has established things to be.  Pray that you would remember to be generous as you expect and desire a great harvest of righteousness.  “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”  2 Corinthians 9:6 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Remember to Pray for One Another.  Pray that your awareness of the faith of others would lead you to remember to pray for them.  Pray that God would help you remember to lift up the needs of others with joy and thankfulness in your prayers.  “I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.”  Philemon 1:4-5 (NIV)

Thursday:  Remember a Life Worth Imitating.  Pray that you would remember those whose way of life produced godly results.  Pray that you would live life in a way that would be worthy of being remembered.  “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”  Hebrews 13:7 (NIV)

Friday:  Remember the Height God Has Lifted You To.  Pray that you would remember how high God has lifted you before you are tempted to fall.  Pray that when you do fall, you would remember the goodness of the height God can restore you to.  “Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.”  Revelation 2:5 (NIV)

Saturday:  Remember Godly Instruction.  Pray that God would help you to not only remember His instructions, but obey them.  Pray that your obedience to God would prepare you for the return of Jesus.  “Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; obey it, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.”  Revelation 3:3 (NIV)