Prayer Guides

January 5, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: A Prepared Path!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Prepared Path!

 

“A voice of one calling in the desert,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.'”  
Matthew 3:3 (NIV)

Our prayer emphasis this week will be to pray about the prepared path that Jesus walked, and that He calls you to walk as you follow Him.  The Bible makes it clear that there is a way, a path, that leads to life eternal and one that leads to destruction.  The path we choose to travel each day reflects where we are headed and helps others to see the goodness of God as we follow His path.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you see the path that grows brighter each day.  Pray that you would always look for, and stay on, the path of the righteous.  Pray about how your choices in life reflect the path you are traveling on.  Pray that God would help you avoid the distractions and detours the enemy uses in an attempt to get you off the path that is right.  Pray that the people around you would know of the good path and that they would follow it as they observe your life in Christ.

“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 help you walk the path prepared by Jesus.

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: Prepared For Life.  Pray that you would be filled with joy as you walk the path of life.  Pray that your joy would lead others to seek the path of life through Jesus.  Pray that the path you travel would seek pleasures that last through eternity.  “You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”  Psalm 16:11 (NIV)

Tuesday: Prepared For Protection.  Pray that you would follow God’s path and trust Him to broaden it beneath your feet so that your walk is steady.  Pray that those around you would not stumble on the path they are choosing to travel.  Pray for God’s protection from both physical and spiritual dangers that exist as you travel through life.  “You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn.”  Psalm 18:36 (NIV)

Wednesday: Prepared For God’s Way.  Pray that you would be a student of God’s way so that your path would not be disrupted by the enemy.  Pray that you would teach others the way of God.  Pray that those who stand against you would actually help you travel in a way that pleases God.  “Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.”  Psalm 27:11 (NIV)

Thursday: Prepared For Freedom.  Pray that you would daily experience the freedom of walking in the path of God’s commands.  Pray that the people around you would see a heart set free in Christ.  Pray that you would learn to run free from bondage as you travel in the path of God’s commands.  “I run in the path of your commands, for you have set my heart free.”  Psalm 119:32 (NIV)

Friday: Prepared For Light.  Pray that you would use God’s Word to illuminate the path you walk each day.  Pray that you would shine the light of God’s Word on the path that those around you walk.  Pray for the wisdom and desire to shine the light of God’s Word upon the path you travel so that your way would be clear.  “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”  Psalm 119:105 (NIV)

Saturday:  Prepared For Justice.  Pray that your practice of administering mercy and justice would lead you on a path that is good.  Pray that you would continually grow in your understanding of God’s definition of justice.  Pray that you would treat the people around you in a way that helps them desire a path that is good.  “Then you will understand what is right and just and fair — every good path.”  Proverbs 2:9 (NIV)

December 29, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: When God Says Go!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

When God Says Go!

 

“When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. ‘Get up,’ he said, ‘take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.’”  
Matthew 2:13 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer emphasis on how we ought to respond when God says go!  While there are times when God gives specific direction as to where we ought to go, as He did with Joseph and Mary, other times the direction is more about just taking Jesus with us wherever we go.  As children of God, He has called us to be active in sharing the good news of Jesus everywhere we go.  Sometimes we lose sight of where all “everywhere” might mean so this week’s prayer focus should remind us that everywhere means everywhere.  As you pray this week, consider the how and why of God saying to you, “Go!”.  Pray that you would learn obedience to the directions of God’s Word and His Spirit.  Pray for wisdom to understand when God says go and when He says stay.  Pray that you would courageously take the message of salvation everywhere you go.  Pray about how God would use your testimony where you are at now, and also in every place He may lead you.

“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 help you share Jesus wherever you go.

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: Go To the Street.  Pray that you would see all people as valuable.  Pray that you would take the message of Jesus to where the people are who still need to hear it.  Pray for a spirit of humility to fill your message of good news to all people.  “Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.”  Matthew 22:9 (NIV)

Tuesday: Go To Your Family.  Pray that you would not neglect to talk to your family about all that Jesus has done for you.  Pray others would known of God’s mercy upon your life.  Pray for wisdom in sharing the good news of Jesus with those who know you well.  “Jesus did not let him, but said, ‘Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.’”  Mark 5:19 (NIV)

Wednesday: Go and Show Mercy.  Pray that your understanding of God’s mercy would compel you to be merciful.  Pray that you would be willing to extend mercy to the people around you.  Pray that the good news of Jesus would be listened to because of your willingness to show mercy.  “The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’ Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.’”  Luke 10:37 (NIV)

Thursday: Go and Leave Sin.  Pray that you make a deliberate decision to remove yourself from the places of sin in your life.  Pray that God’s forgiveness would always be cause to leave sin behind.  Pray for wisdom in communicating a message which doesn’t condemn a person, but also doesn’t make sin acceptable.  “‘Then neither do I condemn you,’ Jesus declared. ‘Go now and leave your life of sin.’”  John 8:11 (NIV)

Friday: Go and Bear Fruit.  Pray that your life would bear much lasting fruit as you follow the call of Jesus to go.  Pray that God’s will for you to bear fruit is evident in what you ask for.  Pray that the good news of Jesus would produce much fruit both in your life and in the lives of those you share it with.  “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit — fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.”  John 15:16 (NIV)

Saturday:  Go Find the Missing.   Pray that you would notice people who are missing, and then actively search for them.  Pray that you would have the heart of Jesus in regard to people who are missing.  Pray with thankfulness that Jesus came to seek and to save those who are lost.  “What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?” Matthew 18:12 (NIV)

December 22, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Seeking the King!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Seeking the King!

 

“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”  
Matthew 2:2 (NIV)

This week’s prayer focus will be on various aspects of seeking Jesus as your King.  Because I enjoy photographing wildlife, I am often asked where I find the various subjects of my photos.  The basic answer is really quite simple — “Where I look.”  The more complex answer involves knowing both where to look and where not to look, but also in not being surprised at the occasional appearance somewhere unexpected.  For me, the process of seeking God is similar — While I may find Him where I look, if I’m not looking with an expectation of finding Him I will probably walk away thinking He’s not there.  As you pray this week, ask God to increase your desire to seek Him at all times.  Pray that you would look for Him, and find Him, in all the details of the life He would have you live.  Pray that the seeds of righteousness being planted would bear great fruit in your life and the lives of others as you seek God.  Pray that a life of seeking God would help you to find Him in both expected and unexpected places.

“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 help you seek and know Jesus as King.

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:  Seek Earnestly.  Pray that God would help you evaluate just how earnestly you seek Him.  Pray that your seeking of God would constantly be moving from casual desire to a greater longing for His presence.  “O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.”  Psalm 63:1 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Seek Humbly.  Pray that your pursuit of God would be filled with a humility that leads to obedience.  Pray for the courage to seek God from a position of humility that recognizes His great love for you.  Pray for the wisdom to help others see themselves as God sees them.  “Seek the LORD, all you humble of the land, you who do what he commands.”  Zephaniah 2:3 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Seek Wholeheartedly.  Pray that God would cleanse your heart of anything that would get in the way of your seeking Him fully.  Pray that your desire to seek God would lead you to do so with all your heart.  Pray that you would be an example to others who need to find God.  “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”  Jeremiah 29:13 (NIV)

Thursday:  Seek While You Can.  Pray that you would know God’s willingness and desire to be found by you.  Pray for a greater recognition of God’s nearness to you.  Pray that the people around you would seek God while the opportunity exists and that they would find Him to be very near.  “Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near.”  Isaiah 55:6 (NIV)

Friday:  Seek Joyfully.  Pray that you would find joy in the process of seeking God, as well as in finding Him.  Pray for a spirit that is turned toward God so you have reason to rejoice when you encounter Him.  Pray that the people around you would see the joy that you have in the Lord and seek Him.  “Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.”  Psalm 105:3 (NIV)

Saturday:  Seek From Wherever You Are.  Pray that you would always seek God no matter where you are.  Pray that the people around you would know that God can be found from wherever they are if they would only seek Him fully.  “But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul.”  Deuteronomy 4:29 (NIV)

December 15, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: The Gift of Jesus!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

The Gift of Jesus!

 

“Do not be deceived.  Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”  
James 1:16-17 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will wrap around some of the real gifts of Christmas — gifts we have been given through Jesus Christ.  As you consider the gifts you give and receive this Christmas season, my prayer is that each of us would recognize God as the source of all good gifts.  You’re ability to fully give to others will increase as you accept and share that which has been given by God.  As you pray this week, ask God to increase your awareness of the gifts you have been given through Jesus.  Pray each day that these gifts will grow in your life even as you learn to share them with others.  Pray about how your gifts to others will reflect the gift of Jesus.  Pray for courage and humility as you share the real gift of Christmas with others.  Pray for a spirit of unity among brothers and sisters in Christ as we grow in our love for one another.  Pray each day for the individuals of your church congregation as well as 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 help you know and share the gift of Jesus.

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: Gift of Self.  Pray about how your life reflects an acceptance of the sacrifice of Jesus for your sins.  Pray that your remembrance of the gift of Jesus would help you to consistently help others to accept the gift of Jesus for themselves.  “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’”  Luke 22:19 (NIV)

Tuesday: Gift of Understanding.  Pray that God would open the gift of understanding in your life as you seek Jesus with a whole heart.  Pray for a growing understanding of Jesus as the One who is true.  Pray that you would accurately represent the truth of Jesus.  “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true.”  1 John 5:20 (NIV)

Wednesday: Gift of Rest.  Pray that you would always look to Jesus as the One who desires to give you real rest.  Pray for the  humility needed to approach Jesus in the midst of your weariness.  Pray for wisdom in helping others to always go to Jesus with their burdens as they seek to find rest.  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”  Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Thursday: Gift of Peace.  Pray that you would know Jesus as the prince of peace.  Pray about how peace will look in your interactions with others.  Pray that the peace you experience in life would reflect the peace that Jesus brings between you and God.  “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)

Friday: Gift of Strength.  Pray that God would help you to use the strength that is found in Jesus.  Pray for courage in doing the things God desires from you.  Pray that your service to others in the name of Jesus would be done in the strength which God provides.  “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service.”  1 Timothy 1:12 (NIV)

Saturday:  Gift of Eternal Life.  Pray that you would daily rejoice in the gift of eternal life that is made possible by Jesus.  Pray that your life would be lived as a testimony to the eternal life that is found through Jesus.  Pray about how God would have you share the good news of life eternal with the people around you each day.  “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” 
1 John 5:11 (NIV)

December 8, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Following the Promised Child!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Following the Promised Child!

 

“’She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’  All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:  ‘The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ — which means, ‘God with us.’”
Matthew 1:21-22 (NIV)

This week’s prayer focus will be wrapped around the present that was given to us — the promised child, Jesus!  Each day we will focus our prayer time on a different name, title, or description that was given to the Son of God as He came to earth as the One promised from God.  The promise of Jesus began in the garden of Eden in response to the sin of mankind.  We celebrate the birth of Jesus as the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promise to crush the head of Satan.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you consider not only what child is this that we worship, but how you will worship Him throughout your life.  Pray that each aspect of who Jesus is would impact your life in such a way that you experience Him more fully each day.  Pray that you would live with a greater appreciation of what Jesus accomplished on our behalf.

“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 help you follow Jesus as the One who was promised to us.

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: Wonderful Counselor.  Pray that your relationship with Jesus reveals His presence, the Wonderful Counselor, living in you.  Pray that you would seek God’s counsel in everything you do.  Pray that God’s Spirit would continually remind you to share the good news of Jesus.  “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”  John 14:26 (NIV)

Tuesday: Mighty God.  Pray that your life submits fully to the authority and might of God.  Pray that all people would experience salvation which comes through the might of God working in Jesus.  Pray that your life would show to others that you believe in a mighty God.  “But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.”  Luke 22:69 (NIV)

Wednesday: Everlasting Father.  Pray that your life shows a trust in an eternal Father and Savior.  Pray that the eternal nature of Jesus would help you look to the future with confidence.  Pray that the people around you would know true eternal hope because of an everlasting Father.  “’I tell you the truth,’ Jesus answered, ‘before Abraham was born, I am!’”  John 8:58 (NIV)

Thursday: Prince of Peace.  Pray that you would seek peace with God who desires to bring all people to peace with Him through Jesus.  Pray that the “Prince of Peace” would reign in your life as you find in Him a peace that surpasses all understanding.  Pray that the people around you would see God’s peace evident in your life.  “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”  Luke 2:14 (NIV)

Friday: Jesus.  Pray that you completely experience the cleansing power of the name of Jesus who came to save His people from their sins.  Pray about how you can make the name of Jesus known.  Pray that the people around you would call on the One who saves.  “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners — of whom I am the worst.”  I Timothy 1:15 (NIV)

Saturday:  Immanuel.  Pray that you would know the help of God with you in the midst of every aspect of life.  Pray that God’s help would fill you with awe as you praise Him..  Pray that your life is a constant reminder to those around you that God is with us and has come to help His people.  “They were all filled with awe and praised God. ‘A great prophet has appeared among us,’ they said. ‘God has come to help his people.’”  Luke 7:16 (NIV)

December 1, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Following the Past!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Following the Past!

 

“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 will be on remembering the past so that we may learn from it and follow it in appropriate ways.  The past is so important to God that Matthew’s Gospel opens with a recollection of people who were the ancestors of Jesus.  While we each have events take place which seem like they will be forever etched in our mind, experience says that without a consistent reminder we will likely forget most of those memorable events.  For this reason, God is constantly calling us to remember as He gives us reminders and memorials to help us do so.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you understand your own weaknesses and seek His help in remembering the things that are of utmost importance.  Pray that you would pass along to others the things that God has done in and through your life.  Pray that the reminders of God’s work in the past would give you great confidence and hope regarding His work now and in the future.  Pray for the wisdom needed to hold on to that which ought to be remembered and to let go of the things which would hinder your life in Christ.

“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 help you remember the things of the past which help you grow.

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 Through Worship.  Pray that all of your times of seeking God would remind you of the need to worship Him for He is worthy.  Pray that you would fill your mind with songs that help you remember the things of the Lord.  Pray that the people around you would be lifted up by the way you worship God.  “I remembered my songs in the night.  My heart mused and my spirit inquired.” Psalm 77:6 (NIV)

Tuesday: Remember Through God’s Deeds and Miracles.  Pray that you would not forget the mighty works of God from days of long ago, nor from your own days.  Pray that your remembrance of God’s work would help you grow in faith.  Pray that the people around you would hear of the mighty works of God from you.  “I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” Psalm 77:11 (NIV)

Wednesday: Remember Through God’s Laws.  Pray that you would find comfort in remembering the laws of God.  Pray that your path each day would be lived according to the laws of God.  Pray that the people around you would know you as one who remembers God’s laws because they see you keeping them.  “I remember your ancient laws, O LORD, and I find comfort in them.”  Psalm 119:52 (NIV)

Thursday: Remember Through God’s Name.  Pray that God’s name would always be on your mind as He draws you to follow His ways.  Pray that a remembrance of God’s name would lead you to honor that name with your life in everything you do.  Pray that the people around you would see you as keeping God’s name holy.  “In the night I remember your name, O LORD, and I will keep your law.”  Psalm 119:55 (NIV)

Friday: Remember Through God’s Warnings.  Pray that you would remember the warnings of Jesus when trouble comes so that you are prepared to trust Him.  Pray that the people around you would remember both the promises and warnings of God.  “I have told you this, so that when the time comes you will remember that I warned you. I did not tell you this at first because I was with you.”  John 16:4 (NIV)

Saturday:  Remember Through The Lord’s Sacrifice.  Pray that you would always take the Lord’s Supper seriously as you remember the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.  Pray that you would value the reminder God has given us about the sacrifice of Jesus.  Pray about how your participation in the Lord’s Supper will proclaim His death, and resurrection, until He comes.  “And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’” 1 Corinthians 11:24 (NIV)

November 24, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: A Vision of Victory!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Vision of Victory!

 

“The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 15:56-57 (NIV)

This week’s prayer focus is not just on the victory we have in Christ, but how we ought to live victorious lives each day.  Living in a college town I do not have to follow sports to know if the local football team wins or loses on a particular weekend.  But it’s not just in sports that our lives reflect our identification with being, or not being, victorious — most churches I visit give off a clear impression of whether the body as a whole feels victorious or defeated.  Yes, there are losses that may be noticeable but they don’t have to define us.  Loss of people.  Loss of influence.  Loss of finances.  Loss of freedoms.  Loss of peace.  Loss of joy.  The list could go on, but the point is that when we focus on the losses, we tend to forget that God has already declared us victorious and calls us to live like victors!  As you pray this week, ask God to help you always remember the victory you have in Christ.  Pray that you would be aware of the tools God has given to help you know victory in Christ.  Pray about how you can help others seek eternal victory.

“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 help you know and share the victory found in Christ.

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:  Victory For the Faithful.  Pray that you would cling to the victory that awaits those who walk in blameless ways.  Pray that God would guard your path as you walk in faithfulness to Him.  “He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.”  Proverbs 2:7-8 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Victory Through Wise Counsel.  Pray that you would live victoriously because of the quality of counsel you surround yourself with.  Pray that you would always seek advice from God first and be sure your human advisers give godly advice.  Pray that your guidance to others would always be filled with godly wisdom.  “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.”  Proverbs 11:14 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Victory By the Lord.  Pray that you would live with an understanding of where true victory comes from.  Pray that your preparations for battle would always understand that it is the Lord who will be able to give victory.  Pray for the wisdom to be made ready even as you trust God for the victory.  “The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.”  Proverbs 21:31(NIV)

Thursday:  Victory For Justice.  Pray that your hope for a justice which prevails would rest fully in Jesus.  Pray that your life would reflect the heart of Jesus as you seek victory for justice.  Pray that God would help you make things right.  “A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory.  In his name the nations will put their hope.”  Matthew 12:20-21 (NIV) 

Friday:  Victory Over Death.  Pray that you would live a life that reflects your knowledge that the power of death has been defeated.  Pray that you would be able to grieve as one with great hope, knowing that the victory over death has been won by Jesus.  “Death has been swallowed up in victory.  Where, O death, is your victory?  Where, O death, is your sting?”  1 Corinthians 15:55 (NIV)

Saturday:  Victory That Overcomes the World.  Pray that you would live each day in your life with a faith that overcomes.  Pray that the appearance of success in the world would not distract you from true victory that is found through faith in Christ.  Pray that your faith would  show others how one born of God should live.  “Everyone born of God overcomes the world.  This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.”  1 John 5:4 (NIV)

November 17, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: A Vision of Mourning!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Vision of Mourning!

 

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
Matthew 5:4 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer emphasis on God’s promise that those who mourn will find comfort from God in all circumstances so that we can share that comfort with others.  When life is a struggle for you, take the time to notice how God comforts you so that you would be better prepared to comfort others in their difficulties.  We also must learn to mourn and be sorrowful about the sin in our life.  It is in our godly sorrow that we repent and find God’s comfort.  As you pray this week, ask God to make you more aware of the comfort that He has provided to you.  Pray that you would actively look for ways to share that same comfort with others.  Pray that the troubles of this world would not overwhelm you or the people around you.  Pray for the wisdom needed to share God’s comfort with those experiencing the troubles of this world.  Pray for discernment and wisdom to see beyond and through the divisiveness of this world so that you would love others as God loves both you and them.

“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 help you mourn and be comforted.

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:  Finding Comfort When Facing Death.  Pray that the guidance and discipline of God would bring you comfort when the shadow of death surrounds you.  Pray that the people around you would be comforted by the presence of God when they mourn.  “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”  Psalm 23:4 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Finding Comfort During Suffering.  Pray that you would be comforted by God’s promises during times of suffering.  Pray for a greater understanding of how God’s promises preserve your life beyond your current suffering.  Pray that you would share God’s promises with the people around you who are suffering.  “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”  Psalm 119:50 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Finding Comfort In God’s Laws.  Pray that your knowledge of, and obedience to, God’s laws would bring you comfort.  Pray that the foundation and stability of God’s Word would dwell within you in such a way that you find comfort in remembering His truth.  Pray that you would comfort others through God’s laws.  “I remember your ancient laws, O LORD, and I find comfort in them.”  Psalm 119:52 (NIV)

Thursday: Finding Comfort Through God’s Love.  Pray that God’s love would fill you with great comfort.  Pray that you would find comfort in the unfailing nature of God’s love that endures beyond our worthiness.  Pray that you would have opportunity to share God’s love with others to bring comfort to them.  “May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.” Psalm 119:76 (NIV)

Friday:  Finding Comfort Through Our Relationship with Christ.  Pray that you would experience overflowing comfort through your relationship with Christ.  Pray that your identity in Christ would be reflected in the comfort you share.  Pray that the comfort you have received will overflow into the lives of others.  “For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.”  2 Corinthians 1:5 (NIV)

Saturday:  Finding Comfort Through Forgiveness.   Pray that you would be comforted by the process of forgiveness.  Pray that you would find comfort in knowing the forgiveness that first comes from God so that you would fully forgive yourself and others.  Pray that your forgiveness of others would be a comfort to them.  “Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.” 2 Corinthians 2:7 (NIV)

November 10, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: A Vision of Ruin!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Vision of Ruin!

 

“For I will no longer have pity on the people of the land,” declares the LORD. “I will hand everyone over to his neighbor and his king. They will oppress the land, and I will not rescue them from their hands.”
Zechariah 11:6 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer emphasis on a vision of ruin so that we would avoid it.  While there are numerous things which can cause sudden ruin, more common for most things which fall apart is the gradual lack of care and maintenance.  Anyone that has ever been in a battle understands the need for constant vigilance — to always be on guard.  But the truth is, we are all in a daily battle that is taking place over the eternal destination of our souls.  Paul writes of our need to wage war, not with the weapons of the world, but with the spiritual armor of God.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you be aware of the attempts of the enemy to destroy you.  Pray that your relationship with Jesus would fill you with His presence in a way that gives you the strength, wisdom, and courage to always be on guard.  Pray that your desire to know Christ and the power of His resurrection would be greater than any other desire which would lead you to ruin.

“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 help you avoid ruin.

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:  Avoid Ruin From Betrayers.  Pray that God would protect your heart and mind from the ruin caused by betrayers.  Pray that your trust of God would fill you with peace when people seek to harm you.  Pray that you would not be one who betrays others by your words or actions.  “Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues.”  Matthew 10:17 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Avoid Ruin From False Teaching.  Pray that God would help you to be devoted to His teachings so that false teaching would not deceive you.  Pray that nothing false would have room to dwell in your life.  “For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and miracles to deceive the elect — if that were possible.  So be on your guard; I have told you everything ahead of time.”  Mark 13:22-23 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Avoid Ruin From Hypocrisy.  Pray that God would surround you with people whose lives match their words.  Pray that you would always be on guard against the temptation to be someone different than who God says you are.  “Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: ‘Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.’”  Luke 12:1 (NIV)

Thursday:  Avoid Ruin From Greed.  Pray that you would always be on guard against the desire to measure yourself, and others, by the things that are owned.  Pray that you would see clearly the many ways that greed can ruin a life.  “Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.’”  Luke 12:15 (NIV)

Friday:  Avoid Ruin From Opposition.  Pray that God would help you to see the source of any opposition you face.  Pray that you would be on guard against those who would oppose the message of the gospel.  “Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done.  You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.”  2 Timothy 4:14-15 (NIV)

Saturday:  Avoid Ruin From Error.  Pray that the confidence you have in Christ would not make you blind to the temptation of error others may entice you with.  Pray that God would help you notice the errors that would lead you to ruin.  “Therefore, dear friends, since you already know this, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of lawless men and fall from your secure position.”  2 Peter 3:17 (NIV)

November 3, 2024 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: A Vision of Care!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Vision of Care!

 

“I will strengthen them in the LORD and in his name they will walk,” declares the LORD.”
Zechariah 10:12 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer emphasis on living with a growing understanding of God’s care for us so that we would reflect that care to others.  When we gaze into God’s Word, we discover the ongoing example of His care for people.  In love, God calls us to Himself and takes care of the sin which separates us from Him.  When we care for people the way God cares for us, we walk with Him.  As you pray this week, consider they many ways you have experienced God’s care.  Pray that your care for others would grow as you desire for them to know God’s care.  Pray that you would know how to care for the things which are your responsibility and how to trust God with the things which aren’t your responsibility.  Pray that God’s care, and your care, would strengthen people in the Lord so that together we may walk in His name.  Pray that the body of Christ would grow in the ways we experience and express God’s care.

“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 help you experience and share His care.

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:  Care For Creation.  Pray that you would know how to care for the things God has created and has given you stewardship of.  Pray that you would understand how much God cares for His work as He gives value both to creation and to the one He calls to care for it.  “The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.”  Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Care For the Place of Worship.  Pray that you would know how to be involved in caring for the places we gather at to worship God.  Pray that you would care about God being represented well in your life.  Pray that you would care for yourself as the sanctuary of God’s Spirit.  “Others were assigned to take care of the furnishings and all the other articles of the sanctuary, as well as the flour and wine, and the oil, incense and spices.”  1 Chronicles 9:29 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Care For the Poor.  Pray that you would have a right attitude toward things being made right for the poor.  Pray that you would know how to live with godly justice toward all who might struggle to be seen and heard.  Pray that you would be filled with compassion and concern for the poor.  “The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.”  Proverbs 29:7 (NIV)

Thursday:  Care For God’s People.  Pray that you would consider the needs of others to be more important than your own.  Pray that those under your care would know you one who cares for them even more than you care for yourself.  “’This is what the Sovereign LORD says: ‘Woe to the shepherds of Israel who only take care of themselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock?’” Ezekial 34:2 (NIV)

Friday:  Care For the Hurting.  Pray that you would be moved to compassion in a way that compels you to help the hurting.  Pray that you would be willing to give of yourself to care for the hurting rather than expect someone else to do it.  “He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.”  Luke 10:34 (NIV)

Saturday:  Care For Your Family.  Pray that you would be diligent in caring, to the best of your ability with God’s help, for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of your family.  Pray that the care you have for your family would be an example of how God wants His family cared for through you.  “If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God’s church?”  1 Timothy 3:5 (NIV)