“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Godly Sorrow!

“See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done.” 
2 Corinthians 7:11 (NIV)

Our “Lifestyle of Prayer” emphasis this week will focus on some of the things produced in our life by godly sorrow.  I suspect that most of us are much more aware of the sorrow we experience than the sorrow we cause.  As I read scripture, it appears that both the sorrow we experience and the sorrow we cause can be either godly sorrow or worldly sorrow.  One of the clearest ways to determine the true source of the sorrow is to examine just what the sorrow produces.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you see how a godly sorrow produces in you a variety of necessary things.  Pray that you would be a truthful messenger of God so that any sorrow you produce in others would be of the godly kind.  Pray for a growing desire to endure whatever it takes to bring about a maturity in your thoughts and actions.  Pray that God would use the sorrow you experience in order to help shape you more and more into the image of Christ.  Pray that God would use you to make Jesus known to those who are filled with sorrow.

“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 understanding and accepting the purpose of godly sorrow

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: Producing Earnestness.  Pray that your godly sorrow would produce an earnestness in your communication with God.  Pray for the humility to be earnest with those who have added to your sorrow and with those whose sorrow has been increased by you.  “And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.”  Luke 22:44 (NIV)

Tuesday: Producing Eagerness.  Pray that your godly sorrow would create an eagerness in your life to know real truth.  Pray that you would be eager to understand the accuracy of God’s Word.  “Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”  Acts 17:11 (NIV)

Wednesday: Producing Indignation.  Pray that your godly sorrow would lead you to an indignation that challenges your incorrect attitudes.  Pray for the courage to stand up for those who are being overlooked, neglected, or even rejected.  “People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them.  When Jesus saw this, he was indignant.”  Mark 10:13 (NIV) 

Thursday: Producing Longing.  Pray that your godly sorrow would cause an intense longing to be reconciled with others.  Pray for a growing desire to connect with people that you may not have seen in person for some time.  Pray that your longing for others would help them to know the longing God has for each of us.  “When we were torn away from you for a short time (in person, not in thought), out of our intense longing we made every effort to see you.”  1 Thessalonians 2:17 (NIV)

Friday: Producing Concern.  Pray that your godly sorrow would produce in you a great concern for others.  Pray that you would find ways to express your concern as you serve and care for people.  Pray that your concern for others would bring them great joy.  “He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever.”  2 Corinthians 7:7 (NIV)

Saturday:  Producing Readiness For Justice.  Pray that your godly sorrow would prepare you to know true justice.  Pray that you would grow in your understanding of how justice, mercy, and compassion work together.  Pray about how God would have you share with others the good news of being made right with God through the work of Jesus Christ.  “This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’”  Zechariah 7:9 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Lessons From a Walk!

“As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; but they were kept from recognizing him.  He asked them, ‘What are you discussing together as you walk along?’” 
Luke 24:15-17 (NIV)

Our “Lifestyle of Prayer” emphasis this week will focus on some lessons from a walk with Jesus.  While we tend to gather and celebrate resurrection morning with gladness, that first resurrection morning was filled with much confusion and uncertainty.  It is in that confusion that Jesus joins two disciples for a walk and helps them to understand all that had happened.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you grow in understanding as you walk with Him each day.  Pray for the courage to be honest with Jesus about your questions and the times you lack understanding.  Pray that the lessons you learn would be lessons that you willingly share with others.  Pray for the humility needed to listen to others in their times of confusion.  Pray that you would share the good news of Jesus with others as you join them in their walk.  Pray that the resurrection of Jesus would fill you with a message of hope that you carry with you everywhere you go.

“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 understanding and accepting the work done by Jesus on the cross.

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: Powerful Prophet.  Pray for a growing knowledge of how Jesus fulfilled the prophecies concerning the Messiah.  Pray that you would accept the power of God’s Word as represented in the life of Jesus.  Pray that you would always trust the promises of Jesus.  “About Jesus of Nazareth,” they replied. “He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people.”  Luke 24:19 (NIV)

Tuesday: Crucified By Leaders.  Pray that you would grasp the extent of God’s love for you as He allowed Jesus to be crucified.  Pray for an awareness of how your sin required a penalty you couldn’t afford.  Pray for a heart that is not hardened by the deceitfulness of the enemy.  “The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him.”  Luke 24:20 (NIV)

Wednesday: Hope of Redemption.  Pray that you would live with a confident hope as one who has been redeemed by the blood of Jesus.  Pray that you would trust God’s timing in everything, especially when you feel like too much time has passed for anything good to come out of tragic circumstances.  “We had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place.”  Luke 24:21 (NIV) 

Thursday: Amazing Faith.  Pray for a faith that anticipates being amazed by God.  Pray that the practice of your faith would amaze those who see your faith in action.  Pray about how God would have you share the amazing things you have found in your pursuit of Jesus.  “In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning but didn’t find his body.”  Luke 24:22 (NIV)

Friday: Confirming Discovery.  Pray for an openness in checking out what others have found in their search for Jesus.  Pray that your life would confirm to others that Jesus is exactly who He claims to be.  Pray that your confirmed faith in Jesus would help you share Him with others.  “Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but him they did not see.”  Luke 24:24 (NIV)

Saturday:  Glorious Explanation.  Pray that you would be a student of God’s Word so that you would know what it says about Jesus.  Pray for God’s Spirit to help you understand the presence and prophecies of Jesus throughout the entire Bible.  Pray that you would be faithful in using God’s Word to share Jesus with others.  “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.”  Luke 24:27 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Messages From the Cross!

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” 
Hebrews 12:2-3 (NIV)

Our “Lifestyle of Prayer” emphasis this week will focus on a return to the words of Jesus from the cross.  As we spend the week preparing to celebrate Resurrection Sunday, it is fitting to not only consider the sacrifice Jesus made, but to apply His very words to how we pray.  As you pray this week, use the topics to help you pray through difficulties, through weakness, through loneliness, through concern for others, and most importantly through the eyes of Jesus.  Pray for a greater awareness of the things Jesus went through to bring salvation to you.  Pray about how the words of Jesus will help you know the fullness of His love for you.  Pray that you would realize how you are part of the joy that was set before Jesus as He endured the cross.  Pray that your life would reflect the message of the cross to the people around 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’s help in understanding and accepting the work done by Jesus on the cross.

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: Father, Forgive Them.  Pray for a growing awareness of the fullness of God’s forgiveness extended toward you.  Pray that you would learn to forgive others, just as in Christ you are forgiven.  Pray that the people you see today would realize and accept the Father’s forgiveness.  “Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”  Luke 23:34

Tuesday: You Will Be With Me.  Pray that you would live each day with a knowledge of God’s presence with you through His Spirit.  Pray that your life and words would be an invitation for others to live in the presence of Jesus.  Pray that the people you interact with today would have a desire to know, and be known, by Jesus.  “Jesus answered him, ‘I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.’”  Luke 23:43

Wednesday: Behold, Your Son.  Pray about how God would have you respond to those with no family.  Pray that you would know of God’s care for you when you feel alone.  Pray that you would live as God’s family with those who have no other family.  “When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, ‘Dear woman, here is your son,’ and to the disciple, ‘Here is your mother.’ From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.”  John 19:26-27 

Thursday: Why Have You Forsaken Me.  Pray for the courage to cry out to God whenever you feel discouraged.  Pray for those who feel forsaken by God; that you would represent Jesus well to them.  Pray for the humility to love and serve those who feel abandoned.  “About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?’–which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’”  Matthew 27:46

Friday: I Thirst.  Pray that you would always hunger and thirst for righteousness so that you would be satisfied.  Pray that you would know the value of God’s completed work in satisfying your thirst.  Pray that the people you see today would have a real thirst for the things of God.  “Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, ‘I am thirsty.’”  John 19:28

Saturday:  It Is Finished.  Pray for an increasing appreciation for the work completed by Jesus on the cross.  Pray that you would be filled with a wisdom from God that helps you live life to the full each day that God gives you.  Pray that you would be actively involved in helping people be ready for the time their life on earth is finished.  “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”  John 19:30 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Doing Your Part!

“From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” 
Ephesians 4:16 (NIV)

“If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.” 
Romans 12:7-8 (NIV)

Our “Lifestyle of Prayer” emphasis this week will focus on spending time in prayer regarding the “good works” God created in advance for you to do.  God calls all who take on the name of Christ, as Christian, to be workers in His kingdom!  For the body of Christ to function effectively, each member must do their part.  While not everyone  has the same function in the body of Christ, we all have the same head.  It is as we live in submission to Jesus as our head that we grow not only as individuals, but also as a body.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you live with the humility of submission.  Pray that you would grow in obedience to God’s Word as you serve others with the various gifts and abilities God has given you.  Pray for a desire to do your part without comparisons to what others are doing.  Pray that the local body of Christ would function in a way that lifts up Jesus for the community to be drawn to Him.

“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 doing your part within the body of 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:  Serving.  Pray that God would help you see, and do, your part in serving the needs of one another.  Pray for a growing willingness to serve within the gathering of believers as God gives opportunity and ability.  Pray that you would represent Jesus well as you humble yourself and serve.  “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”  Mark 10:45 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Teaching.  Pray that you would grow in doing your part of teaching others with your words and actions.  Pray that you would recognize your responsibility from the Great Commission to teach the things of Christ.  Pray that you have courage in your teaching because of the presence of Christ in you.  “And teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”  Matthew 28:20 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Encouraging.  Pray that your attitude, words, and actions would be an encouragement to the people around you.  Pray that you would recognize how God encourages you through others and through His Word so you would grow in the ways you encourage others.  “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”  1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV)

Thursday:  Giving.  Pray that you would do you part in giving, first to God and then to others, according to His grace.  Pray that your giving of time, money, and ability would be done cheerfully and in response to God’s great gift of everything through His Son.  “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”  2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)

Friday:  Leading.  Pray that you would do your part in leading those God has given you responsibility for.  Pray that all areas in which you lead would be directed from the very heart of God.  Pray that the leaders of the church would have the knowledge and understanding which comes from God.  “Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding.”  Jeremiah 3:15  (NIV)

Saturday:  Mercy/Visiting.  Pray that you would do your part in visiting others and caring for them according to their need.  Pray for the ability to see Jesus work in the lives of people as you extend mercy to them through your acts of visiting, sharing, and kindness.  Pray that you would do everything as one doing it for the Lord.  “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’”  Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Godly Instruction!

“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.  Do everything in love.”
1 Corinthians 16:13-14(NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will focus on some godly instruction that Paul gives as he wraps up his first letter to the Corinthians.  Many times when we get to the end of a conversation or letter we become much more intentional and concise in trying to get our point across.  It seems to me that Paul has that same tendency as he gets to the end of this letter we know as 1 Corinthians.  These are not really new instructions he is giving but rather they are worded in order to convey urgency and importance to his readers then and to us.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you know the value of receiving, and living by, godly instruction.  Pray that you would seek God’s wisdom as the center of the instructions you live by.  Pray for a heart of understanding for yourself and for those that you share godly instruction with.  Pray that you would not only understand the instructions that are found in God’s Word, but that you would seek God’s help in doing what His Word says.

“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 according to the instructions of God’s Word.

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:  Be On Guard.  Pray that you would be on guard against the attacks of the enemy and all of his deceitfulness.  Pray for an alertness that helps you to not be caught off guard.  Pray for the courage and strength necessary to resist temptation as you guard your heart and mind.  “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”  1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Stand Firm.  Pray for a growing awareness of God’s ability to lift you out of whatever pit you are in.  Pray that you would always find the foundation of God’s Word to be a solid place where you can stand firm.  Pray that your testimony would help others know they can stand firm.  “He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.”  Psalm 40:2 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Take Courage.  Pray that you would live with a courage that comes from the presence of Jesus through His Spirit.  Pray for a courage that helps you to do what is right even when fear wants to lead you in a different direction.  Pray that your life would show others how to take courage when they find themselves fearful.  “But Jesus immediately said to them: ‘Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.’”  Matthew 14:27 (NIV)

Thursday:  Be Strong.  Pray that you would seek a strength that comes from God so that His power can be seen through you.  Pray that you would be consistent in putting on the full armor of God in order to find a strength which has a spiritual basis.  Pray that your actions would lead others to seek out a strength that comes from the Lord.  “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.”  Ephesians 6:10 (NIV)

Friday:  Love One Another.  Pray for a full acceptance of the greatness of God’s love for you.  Pray that your realization of God’s love would direct the way you love others.  Pray that your love for others would continue to grow deeply as you practice giving and receiving forgiveness.  Pray for a love that helps you to forgive the sins done against you just as God forgives the sins you commit against Him.  “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”  1 Peter 4:8 (NIV)

Saturday:  Show Honor.  Pray for a humility in your life that is willing to recognize those who bring refreshment to your spirit.  Pray for a sincere heart which genuinely appreciates those who are encouragers.  Pray for pure motives both in the way you refresh others and in the way you honor those who refresh you.  “For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.”  1 Corinthians 16:18 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

The Good News!

“Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand.”
1 Corinthians 15:1 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will focus on remembering and living the good news of the gospel.  The mind is a fascinating place where many things that we would just as soon forget seem to be etched in place while the things we want to remember slip through without taking root.  This trait has not escaped God’s notice and He continually calls for His people to use various means to remember the things which are of eternal importance — the essence of the good news of Jesus.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you always remember not only the gospel, but also your response to it.  Pray that you would live with an awareness of how your stand on the gospel helps remind others of the power of the good news of Jesus.  Pray that you would actively find appropriate ways to remind others of the gospel you proclaim.  Pray for a consistency in what you share about the gospel and how you live by the gospel.  Pray that you and the people around you would know God’s Word as good news.

“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 and sharing the good news 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:  Good News of Salvation.  Pray that you would always hold fast to the saving power of the gospel.  Pray that you would live as one who is saved by the good news of Jesus.  Pray that your life would proclaim salvation in no other name but Jesus.  “By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.”  1 Corinthians 15:2 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Good News to Share.  Pray that you would always be aware of opportunities to share the good news just as someone shared it with you.  Pray that the essence of the gospel would be of first importance as you share the good news of Jesus with others.  Pray for wisdom in sharing what others need to hear.  “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.”  1 Corinthians 15:3 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Good News from Scripture.  Pray for a growing desire to know and live by the good news found in scripture.  Pray that God’s Word would be alive and active in your life just as it was being lived out by Jesus.  Pray that you would know Jesus as the One who fulfilled scripture.  “That he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”  1 Corinthians 15:4 (NIV)

Thursday:  Good News of Restoration.  Pray that you would know the restoring power of God’s love as He comes to you even after you fail Him.  Pray that you help others know the restoration that is available in Christ.  Pray that the people around you would know of God’s desire to be revealed in them.  “And that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve.”  1 Corinthians 15:5 (NIV)

Friday:  Good News of Hope.  Pray that you would know the hope of Christ which endures beyond the days of this life.  Pray that the good news of hope would spread and grow in the lives of others as the power of God is revealed through Jesus.  “After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.”  1 Corinthians 15:6 (NIV)

Saturday:  Good News at the Right Time.  Pray that you would rejoice in the good news which you heard and received at the right time in your life.  Pray that you would continually grow in your trust of God’s timing in everything — especially in making Himself known to us.  Pray that you would be faithful in sharing the good news of Jesus with people as you trust God to make it grow at the right time.  “And last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.”  1 Corinthians 15:8 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

An Undivided Church!

“I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready.  You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere men?”
1 Corinthians 3:2-3 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will focus on being one who pursues an undivided witness as the body of Christ.  God’s desire is that we all grow into a maturity that values each person for who they are in Christ.  While God’s standards of right and wrong are the same for each person, it is far too easy to find ourselves caught up in quarrels and jealousy based on our own standards of importance.  God wants to use our differences, not to divide us, but to help the world see the power of God in an undivided way.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you see the value you have to Him just the way He has gifted you.  Pray that you would see others with that same sense of being made by God in a way that is just right.  Pray that the things you build your life on would always be centered on the unchanging Word of God.  Pray for a growing unity in Christ that helps the world to see Him in us.

“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 as a part of an undivided body of 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:  Undivided Belief.  Pray that you would live with an undivided belief which is based on God’s Word.  Pray that your sharing the good news of Jesus would lead others to an undivided belief that is centered on Jesus rather than on the messenger.  “What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe — as the Lord has assigned to each his task.”  1 Corinthians 3:5 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Undivided Growth.  Pray that you would be faithful in doing your part in a way that avoids division as God makes your work grow.  Pray that you would learn the value of each person and each part of the process as God brings undivided growth to His body.  Pray for humility that will see the work of God at the core of all growth.  “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow.”  1 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Undivided Purpose.  Pray that you would always look to God as your source of purpose.  Pray that you would grow in an understanding of how God uses each person’s unique work to accomplish an undivided purpose that is rewarded by God.  “The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor.”  1 Corinthians 3:8 (NIV)

Thursday:  Undivided Work.  Pray that God would help you to see how the work of others is combined with your work to accomplish His plans.  Pray for God’s insight into what it looks like for you and those around you to be God’s workers, God’s field, and God’s building.  Pray for a godly focus in all that you do which helps you to interact with others in an undivided work.  “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building.”  1 Corinthians 3:9 (NIV)

Friday:  Undivided Foundation.  Pray that every aspect of your life would be built on one foundation, the foundation of Jesus Christ.  Pray that the way you live would clearly show those around you exactly who your life is built upon.  Pray for a growing unity with those who are also building upon this undivided foundation.  “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”  1 Corinthians 3:11 (NIV)

Saturday:  Undivided Wisdom.  Pray that you would not be deceived by others or by yourself when it comes to what true wisdom looks like.  Pray that you would live with God’s Word as the single standard of wisdom in your life.  Pray that the way you represent Jesus would help others to see an undivided wisdom that comes from God.  “Do not deceive yourselves. If any one of you thinks he is wise by the standards of this age, he should become a “fool” so that he may become wise.”  1 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Powerful Wisdom!

“My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.”
1 Corinthians 2:4-5 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will focus on knowing a wisdom that is powerful because it comes from God.  If you have ever been talked into something that you later regretted, you should have great appreciation for the message of the gospel which relies on the power of God at work in those who hear.  Because the power of God does not reside in the wisdom of man, our actions and words speak with power when they rely on His Word rather than our desires.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you evaluate whose version of power you live by.  Pray that you would choose to live by a faith which grows from the power of God’s Word.  Pray for the humility which chooses not to complicate the message of the gospel.  Pray for the patience needed to allow God’s Spirit to do the work of conviction and transformation needed in your life and the lives of others.  Pray that your life would be a demonstration to others of the power of God’s Spirit.

“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 having a wisdom which comes from Him.

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:  A Wisdom Of Maturity.  Pray that you would grow in a maturity which understands the wisdom of God’s Word.  Pray that your sharing about Jesus would always choose the path of God’s wisdom rather than the wisdom of this world.  “We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.”  1 Corinthians 2:6 (NIV)

Tuesday:  A  Wisdom Of Glory.  Pray that you would seek out a wisdom that has been hidden from those claiming to be wise — a wisdom that results in God’s glory being reflected in you.  Pray that you would share with others about a wisdom that endures all time.  “No, we speak of God’s secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.”  1 Corinthians 2:7 (NIV)

Wednesday:  A Wisdom Of Understanding.  Pray that the power of God’s wisdom would fill you with an understanding that only He can give.  Pray that God’s wisdom living in you would transform you from being an enemy of Christ to a child of God.  “None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.”  1 Corinthians 2:8 (NIV)

Thursday:  A Wisdom Of God’s Word.  Pray that you would know the “hidden wisdom” that has been made known in God’s Word.  Pray that you would live in the midst of God’s great love as He prepares for you things which are indescribable.  “However, as it is written: ‘No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him’”  1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)

Friday:  A Wisdom Of the Spirit.  Pray for a willingness to be still and know the presence of God’s Spirit within you.  Pray for a desire to understand the things revealed by God’s Spirit to those who are His children.  Pray that you would seek a wisdom that could only come from God’s Spirit as you share the good news of Jesus with others.  “But God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.  The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.”  1 Corinthians 2:10 (NIV)

Saturday:  A Wisdom Of God’s Thoughts.  Pray that you would pursue a pure wisdom which has its foundations in the very thoughts of God.  Pray that you would live with a greater awareness of the Spirit of God, who knows His thoughts, living within you. Pray that this powerful wisdom living in  you would direct your life.  “For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man’s spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.”  1 Corinthians 2:11 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Thankful For One Another!

“To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ — their Lord and ours: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
1 Corinthians 1:2-3 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will focus on being thankful for one another.  Who do you think of when you read that line?  I suspect that most of the time we think of those that we are already thankful for and dismiss the idea in our mind that it should apply to anyone else.  Especially within the body of Christ, God’s desire is that we learn to be thankful for every one of the “one anothers”.  A good starting point for learning to do that is to practice being thankful for what God has done, is doing, and will do in their life.  As you pray this week, ask God to  help you grow in thankfulness for all “who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”.  Pray that God would help you to see His work in the lives of others — especially in the lives of those you have difficulty being thankful for.  Pray that your interactions with others would exemplify the grace and peace that God has given through Jesus 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’s help in being thankful for others.

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:  Thankful For God’s Grace In Others.  Pray for a growing awareness of how God’s grace is at work in the lives of the people around you.  Pray that you would learn to be thankful for others as you see them through the eyes of God’s grace.  Pray that you would be a living example to others of how God’s grace leads to thankfulness.  “I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.”  1 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Thankful For God’s Enrichment In Others.  Pray that your knowledge and words would be filled by the presence of God.  Pray that you would be thankful for the people around you as they seek God to enrich them in the depths of knowledge and His wisdom.  “For in him you have been enriched in every way — in all your speaking and in all your knowledge.”  1 Corinthians 1:5 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Thankful For God’s Testimony In Others.  Pray that you would be one who shares your testimony of God’s work in you through both your words and your actions.  Pray that the sharing of your testimony would be confirmed through the lives of those you interact with.  Pray with thanksgiving for the testimony of Christ seen in others.  “Because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you.”  1 Corinthians 1:6 (NIV)

Thursday:  Thankful For God’s Gift In Others.  Pray for contentment with both God’s gifts and His timing in your life and the lives of others.  Pray that you would be thankful for the way God amply supplies that which we lack.  Pray for a growing thankfulness for the way God has gifted others.  “Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed.”  1 Corinthians 1:7 (NIV)

Friday:  Thankful For God’s Strength In Others.  Pray with thankfulness for the strength which God provides.  Pray that the people around you would have a strength of faith that endures.  Pray for a heart that rejoices in the strength and victory others find through Jesus.  “He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  1 Corinthians 1:8 (NIV)

Saturday:  Thankful For God’s Fellowship In Others.  Pray that you would continually walk in fellowship with God and in fellowship with others.  Pray that you would grow in thankfulness for the people around you who trust in God’s faithfulness.  Pray that you would be a messenger of God’s faithfulness in calling people into relationship with Himself through Jesus Christ.  “God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.”  1 Corinthians 1:9 (NIV)

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Restored By God!

“Restore us, O God; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.”
Psalm 80:3 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will focus on our need and desire to be restored by God.  When the darkness of life tries to close in on us, we can call out to God and be saved.  When we become worn down, it is comforting to know that we can be restored as we seek God’s face.  When we turn our face toward God, we find that His face shines upon us with the light of His comforting love.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you know His power and desire to restore.  Pray that you would not only see yourself as a restoration project that God is capable of completing, but that each person you encounter would hear from you of that same hope.  Pray that you would live your life in such a way that God’s restoration work is visible to all.  Pray about how God would use you to shine His light into the lives of everyone you meet.

“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 as one restored by Him.

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:  Restored In Due Time.  Pray that you would learn humility as you submit yourself to God.  Pray that your practice of living in submission to God would lead you to a greater trust of God’s timing.  Pray that you would know the joy of being lifted by God at just the right time.  Pray about how God would have you be His instrument in lifting someone  at just the right time.  “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” 1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Restored Through Anxious Times.  Pray for the courage to turn to God in the midst of all anxiety that you may experience.  Pray that you would be fully aware of God’s care for you.  Pray that you would be aware of God’s presence in all avenues of help that can be available when you experience anxiety for any reason.  “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Restored as You Practice Self-Control.  Pray that you would turn to God for help in living a self-controlled life.  Pray that you would live with an awareness of the enemies desire to destroy you.  Pray that God would help you to always hear and identify the roaring of the enemy.  “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”  1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)

Thursday:  Restored To Resist Evil.  Pray that you would grow in a faith that helps you to resist the evil one.  Pray that an awareness of what others go through would help you remain faithful.  Pray that you would live in a way that helps others be encouraged to resist evil.  “Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.” 1 Peter 5:9 (NIV)

Friday:  Restored After Suffering.  Pray for the ability to endure as you hold fast to God’s promise of restoration.  Pray that your life would reflect the strength which God gives by His grace.  Pray that your steadfast faith would lead others to pursue being restored by God.  “And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”  1 Peter 5:10 (NIV)

Saturday:  Restored To Worship.  Pray that your restored life would always be focused on worshiping God.  Pray that you would be faithful in giving God credit for restoring you to Himself.  Pray for a greater recognition of God’s power at work in your life.  Pray that your restored life would be a testimony to others of the power of God at work in you.  “To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.”  1 Peter 5:11 (NIV)