Christian life

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A Life That Overcomes (Week Two)!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Life That Overcomes (Week Two)!

“Why are you downcast, O my soul?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
Psalm 42:5 (NIV)

This week we finish a two week focus on living a life that overcomes.  While the time period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is often filled with many celebrations, for many it is a time that is not nearly as festive on the inside as what the outside might represent.  While I believe all of these prayer guides can be useful well beyond the week they are written for, this topic of overcoming may be one of the most needed on a continual basis as we pray for ourselves and others in our times of difficulty.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you be more aware of those who struggle.  Pray that you would be better equipped to overcome as you learn from God’s Word.  Pray for a greater confidence in God’s desire and ability to help you overcome even in the midst of life’s difficulties.  Pray that you would be an instrument of God in helping others know that in Christ they can live as one who overcomes.

“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 a life in Christ which overcomes the world.

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: Overcoming Abandonment.  Pray that you would overcome in a way that gives you a permanent place of belonging with those who are pure.  Pray that you would live with a confidence in a God who will never abandon you.  “He who overcomes will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before my Father and his angels.”  Revelation 3:5 (NIV)

Tuesday: Overcoming Through Deliberate Praise.  Pray that your hope in God would lead you to praise Him even in the midst of despair.  Pray that your life would be lived in a way that leads others to praise God for the hope He offers.  “Why are you downcast, O my soul?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”  Psalm 43:5 (NIV)

Wednesday: Overcoming Wandering.  Pray that you would find a place of belonging as the temple of God so you would have no need to wander away from Him.  “He who overcomes I will make a pillar in the temple of my God. Never again will he leave it. I will write on him the name of my God and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which is coming down out of heaven from my God; and I will also write on him my new name.”  Revelation 3:12 (NIV)

Thursday: Overcoming Through Time With Jesus.  Pray that your despair would lead you to a closer walk with Jesus.  Pray that God’s Word would burn within you as you examine it during times of despair.  “He asked them, ‘What are you discussing together as you walk along?’  They stood still, their faces downcast.  They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?’”  Luke 24:17, 32 (NIV)

Friday: Overcoming Weariness.  Pray that you would overcome everything that would keep you from being able to sit and rest at the throne of Jesus.  Pray that you would find the strength through Christ to persevere with confidence when the troubles of life are many.  “To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame and sat down with my Father on his throne.”  Revelation 3:21 (NIV)

Saturday:  Overcoming Through the Comfort of Others.  Pray that you would experience the comfort of God through the presence of His people.  Pray that your presence would be a comfort to others who feel downcast for whatever reasons.  Pray that you would notice those who need to be comforted by your presence.  “But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”  2 Corinthians 7:6 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A Life That Overcomes (Week One)!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Life That Overcomes (Week One)!

“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.”
Revelation 2:7 (NIV)

This week we begin a two week focus on living a life that overcomes.  While the time period between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is often filled with many celebrations, for many it is a time that is not nearly as festive on the inside as what the outside might represent.  While I believe all of these prayer guides can be useful well beyond the week they are written for, this topic of overcoming may be one of the most needed on a continual basis as we pray for ourselves and others in our times of difficulty.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you be more aware of those who struggle.  Pray that you would be better equipped to overcome as you learn from God’s Word.  Pray for a greater confidence in God’s desire and ability to help you overcome even in the midst of life’s difficulties.  Pray that you would be an instrument of God in helping others know that in Christ they can live as one who overcomes.

“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 a life in Christ which overcomes the world.

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: Overcoming the Power of Death.  Pray that you would listen to the message of God’s Spirit as He calls you to overcome in a way that gives victory over death.  Pray for a continued faithfulness that helps you live with confidence in the resurrection.  “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death.”  Revelation 2:11 (NIV)

Tuesday: Overcoming By Doing Right.  Pray that you would accurately examine your life for sin that could be causing your despair.  Pray for the courage to repent of sin and do what is right.  Pray that your life choices would give you confidence in being an overcomer.  “Then the LORD said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast?  If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?”  Genesis 4:6-7 (NIV)

Wednesday: Overcoming Your Past.  Pray that you would feast on the spiritual manna and rejoice in a new name that frees you from your past.  Pray that you would listen to what God says about you being a new creation.  “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.”  Revelation 2:17 (NIV)

Thursday: Overcoming Through Answered Prayer.  Pray that you would be diligent in going to God in prayer during times of despair.  Pray that God’s faithfulness in answering prayer would lift you from your despair.  “Eli answered, ‘Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him.’  She said, ‘May your servant find favor in your eyes.’ Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.”  1 Samuel 1:17-18 (NIV)

Friday: Overcoming Oppression.  Pray that you would be faithful in doing God’s will as He empowers you to overcome oppression with His authority.  Pray for a growing obedience to God’s authority.  “To him who overcomes and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations — ‘He will rule them with an iron scepter; he will dash them to pieces like pottery’ — just as I have received authority from my Father.”  Revelation 2:26-27 (NIV)

Saturday:  Overcoming By Remembering God’s Presence.  Pray that you would be reminded of God’s presence when your despair comes from feelings of being alone.  Pray that the presence of God, which surrounds you everywhere, would lift your soul.  “My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon — from Mount Mizar.”  Psalm 42:6 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A Thankful Life (Week Four)!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Thankful Life (Week Four)!

“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 celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday this week and move toward the celebration of Christ’s birth, our thankfulness should not only remain but should grow each day as we consider the gift of Jesus.  Giving thanks really ought to be a lifestyle for God’s children every day that we live.  Our level of thankfulness will say a lot to the people around us who need to know of the hope that is found in Jesus.  This week we will focus on being thankful for the various aspects of the church family.  Each day will emphasize a category of people to pray for that are, or could be, a part of your church family.  Pray specifically for the people you know in each category.  As you pray, listen for what God would have you to do.  Pray each day for the individuals of the congregation you attend as well as for the gathering of believers throughout your area and around the world.

“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 a life that expresses genuine thankfulness.

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 Visitors That Come.  Pray that you would notice visitors and be welcoming.  Pray that visitors would be encouraged to pursue Jesus and grow in connections.  “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ.”  Colossians 2:2 (NIV)

Tuesday: Thankful For Members.  Pray that each member would be growing in faith and equipped to share their faith.  Pray that your involvement in the body of Christ would be an encouragement to others.  “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”  Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)

Wednesday: Thankful For Deacons.  Spend time thanking God for deacons who serve with diligence and faithfulness.  Pray that they would receive the respect due them.  Pray for a heart of service to be found in each person whether in a leadership position or not.  “Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.”  1 Timothy 3:8 (NIV)

Thursday: Thankful For Elders.  Thank God for elders who desire a noble task.  Pray that their task is made easier by a congregation that lives out a connection with God.  Pray that God would continually raise up and make known those He is preparing to shepherd His flock.  “Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.”  1 Timothy 3:1 (NIV)

Friday: Thankful For Teachers.  Pray for God’s wisdom and protection for those who teach.  Pray that all teaching would remain true to God’s Word.  Pray for a spirit of humility to continually grow in the lives of all who teach whether they do so formally or informally.  “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”  James 3:1 (NIV)

Saturday:  Thankful For Visitors To Invite.  Pray for those God would have you share your faith with.  Pray for the courage to invite people to attend church with you.  Pray that those you invite would be moved by God to come.  Pray that they would find a welcoming atmosphere that helps them to grow in connection and worship of God.  “Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.”  Matthew 22:9 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A Thankful Life (Week Three)!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Thankful Life (Week Three)!

“Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 
Ephesians 5:19-20 (NIV)

Giving thanks really ought to be a lifestyle for God’s children every day that we live.  Our level of thankfulness will say a lot to the people around us who need to know of the hope that is found in Jesus.  And I might add, the genuineness or lack thereof of our thankfulness will be noticed by many who are watching.  We all go through struggles that test our faith and we may endure things that no one would be thankful for, but it can be in those times that finding ways to give thanks anyway can speak volumes to others.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you examine your current level of thankfulness.  Pray that you would always look for reasons to give thanks and that you would learn to give thanks even when the reasons seem hidden.  Pray that your faith would grow as you daily practice an attitude of gratitude in your relationships with one another and with God.  Pray that you would find ways to express your thanks to those who need to hear it.

“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 a life that expresses genuine thankfulness.

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 Through Sacrificial Offerings.  Pray that the offering of yourself and your possessions to God would be done with a thankful heart.  Pray that your promises to God would be fulfilled as you give sacrificially.  Pray for a growing generosity that reflects a growing thankfulness in your life.  “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High.”  Psalm 50:14 (NIV)

Tuesday: Give Thanks Through Singing.  Pray that you would learn to express your thanks to God through the songs you sing, whether sung privately or publicly.  Pray that God’s name would be lifted up through the music you listen to as well as through the music you share with others.  Pray for a spirit of thankfulness that is expressed.  “I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.”  Psalm 69:30 (NIV)

Wednesday: Give Thanks For What the Lord Has Done.  Pray that you would pay attention to what God has done in your life so that you would give Him thanks for doing so.  Pray that you would use every opportunity you have to thank the Lord so that the people around you would know of His great work.  “Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.”  Psalm 105:1 (NIV)

Thursday: Give Thanks Which Glorifies God.  Pray that you would live in such a way that your life would lead to an overflowing of thanksgiving which brings glory to God.  Pray that you would know God’s grace and willingly share it with others so that they too would have a reason to be thankful.  “All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.”  2 Corinthians 4:15 (NIV)

Friday: Give Thanks For One Another.  Pray that you would learn to be thankful for the people God brings into your life.  Pray that your thankfulness for one another would lead you to always remember them in prayer.  Pray about how God would have you express your thankfulness for others to them as well as to Him.  “We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers.”  1 Thessalonians 1:2 (NIV)

Saturday:  Give Thanks In All Circumstances.  Pray that you would look for reasons to be thankful in each and ever circumstance you face.  Pray that your desire to be within the will of God would lead you to be a more thankful person.  Pray for a spirit of joy as you grow in thankfulness.  “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)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A Thankful Life (Week Two)!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Thankful Life (Week Two)!

“Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 
Ephesians 5:19-20 (NIV)

As we approach the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday later this month, our prayer focus for the next few weeks will take another look at some of our previous prayer guides on giving thanks.  As with all of these prayer guides, this is not something that we should pray about for a week or so and then dismiss.  God’s desire is that we give thanks in all circumstances at all times.  It is too easy to let the cares of the world steal our joy and thankfulness, so this week we will pray about a variety of reasons to be thankful as well as things to be thankful for.  God connects our attitudes and conversations with one another with our life of thankfulness to Him.  As you pray, ask God to help you live a life of thankfulness each day.  Pray that you would see His gifting in your life as reason to be thankful.  Pray that your sharing of God’s gifting in your life would cause others to give thanks to God.

“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 a life that expresses genuine thankfulness.

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 Faithful Reputation.  Pray that the trait of faithfulness would be valued by you and those around you.  Thank God for those people who inspire you because of their reputation of faith in Jesus.  Pray that you would be one whose faithful reputation inspires others.  “First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world.”  Romans 1:8 (NIV)

Tuesday: Thankful for Changed Lives.  Thank God for the desire and strength to turn from sin and live obediently to the truth.  Pray that the people around you would wholeheartedly obey the teaching of the gospel and be changed.  “But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted.”  Romans 6:17 (NIV)

Wednesday: Thankful for Received Grace.  Thank God for His amazing grace that He offers to all who would accept it.  As you pray, recognize it is that same grace extended to you that allows you to be thankful for the people around you.  Pray that the people around you would see God’s grace extended through you.  “I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.”  1 Corinthians 1:4 (NIV)

Thursday: Thankful for Real Victory.  Pray for the wisdom to know what real victory looks like.  Thank God for the victory over sin and death, as well as for the daily victories, through Jesus.  Pray that the people around you would experience true victory through a relationship with Jesus.  “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  1 Corinthians 15:57 (NIV)

Friday: Thankful for Shared Concern.  Thank God that He draws believers to a common concern for one another and pray that you would always remember it.  Pray that you would be filled with a concern for others.  Pray about how God would have you make your concern for others known.  “I thank God, who put into the heart of Titus the same concern I have for you.”  2 Corinthians 8:16 (NIV)

Saturday:  Thankful for Generous Giving.  Thank God for the ability, and opportunity, to supply the needs of one another through His provision.  Pray for a heart of generosity that would reflect God’s love for the people around you.  Pray that your giving would lead others to give thanks to God.  “This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”  2 Corinthians 9:12 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A Thankful Life (Week One)!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Thankful Life (Week One)!

“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 later this month, our prayer focus for the next few weeks will take another look at some of our previous prayer guides on giving thanks.  As with all of these prayer guides, this is not something that we should pray about for a week or so 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.

“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 a life that expresses genuine thankfulness.

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.  Pray that others would thank God for His righteousness.  “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.  Pray that the people around you would be thankful for the presence of God they see in you.  “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.  Pray that your life would help others to see and know the goodness of God that endures forever.  “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.  Pray that others would be thankful that it is God who qualifies them for His kingdom.   “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.  Pray that your life in Christ would be lived so that others are thankful for you.  “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone.”  1 Timothy 2:1 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A God Of Compassion!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A God Of Compassion!

“I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” 
Jonah 4:2 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis returns to a focus on compassion as we take another look at God through the book of Jonah.  Sometimes we are like Jonah who seemed to be okay with God’s compassion toward him but wasn’t too fond of God having compassion toward his enemies.  God’s desire is that we would grow in compassion not just toward those “on our side”, but toward all people everywhere.  As you pray this week, ask God to help  you grow in your understanding and appreciation for His compassion.  Pray that you would not only know the compassion of God, but that you would represent that compassion to others in the way you treat them.  Pray for God’s help in reflecting His characteristics more fully as you practice being “slow to anger and abounding in love”.  Pray that the people around you would experience the compassion of God from Him . . . and from 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 a life that reflects the compassion God has extended to you.

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:  Compassion Through True Justice.   Pray for a greater understanding of how God’s compassion has made it possible for you to be made right with Him.  Pray that you would see justice through the eyes of mercy and compassion.  Pray that you would learn to see justice as the process of making things right rather than a desire for revenge.  “This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’”  Zechariah 7:9  (NIV)

Tuesday:  Compassion for the Helpless.  Pray that you would know the compassion of God as the Good Shepherd of all who know and follow His voice.  Pray that you would have a heart of compassion for the people around you who have no spiritual leader.  “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”  Matthew 9:36 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Compassion for the Sick.  Pray for eyes that see people who are hurting and for a heart that is moved to compassion for them.  Pray that you would find ways to minister to and serve the sick.  Pray that your compassion for them would be genuine and helpful.  “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.”  Matthew 14:14 (NIV)

Thursday:  Compassion for the Hungry.  Pray that you would recognize the ways God has satisfied your hunger.  Pray for eyes that see the true hunger experienced by the people around you.  Pray for the compassion to share both physical and spiritual food with the people who hunger.  “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat.”  Mark 8:2 (NIV)

Friday:  Compassion for the Lost/Missing.  Pray that you would be filled with a tender compassion for the people you know who are lost and/or missing from the fellowship of believers.  “So he got up and went to his father.  But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”  Luke 15:20 (NIV)

Saturday:  Clothed with Compassion.  Pray that you would daily put on the clothing of compassion and the characteristics that are fitting for God’s chosen people.  Pray that people would recognize you as belonging to God as they experience the way  you treat them.  “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”  Colossians 3:12 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A God To Be Believed!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A God To Be Believed!

“The Ninevites believed God. They declared a fast, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.” 
Jonah 3:5 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will have us praying about responding to God with belief.  It has been said that we can tell what a person really believes by closely observing what they do.  While our words may say what we want to believe, our actions tend to reflect our true beliefs.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you refine and solidify what you know and believe about Him.  Pray that you would grow with God’s help in your times of disbelief.  Pray that your response to God and His Word would show those around you that you really believe what God says.  Pray that your life would reflect what you say you believe about God.  Pray for wisdom in the way you share your belief in God with others so that they too would believe.  Pray that you would not only have a belief in God, but that you would gaze into His Word and actually believe what He 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 a life that reflects your belief in, and of, God.

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 Belief That Leads To Repentance.  Pray that you would believe God when it comes to knowing what is right and wrong.  Pray that today would be the time to know the nearness of God.  Pray for hearts that would respond in repentance to a belief in the good news about Jesus.  “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”  Mark 1:15 (NIV)

Tuesday:  A Belief That Can Grow.  Pray that you would be aware of both your strengths and weaknesses in the area of believing God.  Pray that your desire to believe would not keep you from admitting times of unbelief.  Pray that you would always call out to God for help in growing through any areas of unbelief.  “Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!’”  Mark 9:24 (NIV)

Wednesday:  A Belief That Leads To Worship.  Pray that the things you know and believe about God would always lead you to an attitude of worship.  Pray that others would know about your belief in God by the way you live a life that worships Him.  Pray for the courage to worship God at all times no matter where you are.  “Then the man said, ‘Lord, I believe,’ and he worshiped him.”  John 9:38 (NIV)

Thursday:  A Belief That Obeys.  Pray that your response to belief about the good news of God’s kingdom would always lead to obedience.  Pray for the courage to obey God’s Word simply because you believe Him.  “But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.”  Acts 8:12 (NIV)

Friday:  A Belief That Results In Action.  Pray that your belief of what God says would be seen by others through the things you do.  Pray for a growing faith that puts your belief of God into action.  “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do.  You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that — and shudder.”  James 2:18-19 (NIV)

Saturday:  A Belief That Brings Joy.  Pray that you would daily know the joy that comes from believing God.  Pray that your belief of God, and your belief in God, would help you to know His love in ways that bring joy to you and to those around you.  Pray that your joy would be an expression of your love for God.  “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)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: A God Who Hears!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A God Who Hears!

“In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me.
From the depths of the grave I called for help,
and you listened to my cry.”
Jonah 2:2 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will have us praying about knowing a God who  hears.  It is a great comfort to know God’s promise that no matter where we are, He will be found by us when we seek Him with a whole heart.  He can be found by us because He hears us from wherever we are.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you grow in a confidence that He not only hears you, but that He wants to hear you!  Pray that you would live as one who is not only heard by God, but also as one who is listened to.  Pray that this awareness of God hearing you would help you to be more consistent in talking with Him and in listening to Him.  Pray for the courage to cry out to God no matter what circumstances you find yourself in.  Pray that God would help you be one who hears others as you seek to reflect His nature 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 a growing relationship with the God who hears.

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 God Who Hears My Requests.   Pray that your consistency in making your requests known to God would grow as your faith in Him hearing those requests also grows.  Pray that you would learn the value of both expecting and waiting as you trust God to hear your requests.  “In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.”  Psalm 5:3 (NIV)

Tuesday:  A God Who Hears My Integrity.  Pray that you would live with an integrity in all things so that no deceit would be found in your conversations with God.  Pray that God would purify your life and your prayers as you seek to communicate in all righteousness.  “Hear, O LORD, my righteous plea; listen to my cry.  Give ear to my prayer — it does not rise from deceitful lips.”  Psalm 17:1 (NIV)

Wednesday:  A God Who Hears My Words.  Pray for words which would accurately express yourself to God.  Pray that God would set a guard over you mouth so the words that He hears would be pleasing to Him and beneficial to others.  Pray that your speech would be filled with such purity that you boldly ask God to hear the words of your mouth.  “Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth.”  Psalm 54:2 (NIV)

Thursday:  A God Who Hears My Thoughts.  Pray that you would find comfort in knowing that God can hear your thoughts even when you are unsure of how to express them to Him.  Pray for God’s help in taking every thought captive as you realize He hears those thoughts.  “Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me.  My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught.”  Psalm 55:1-2 (NIV)

Friday:  A God Who Hears My Promises.  Pray that you would live as one whose promises are heard by God.  Pray that you would be careful and deliberate about the things you promise to God and to others.  Pray that your respect of God would help you to find strength in Him to keep your promises.  “For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.”  Psalm 61:5 (NIV)

Saturday:  A God Who Hears My Need.  Pray for the faith that helps you to know that God hears your need.  Pray for courage and clarity in expressing your needs to God.  Pray that God would help you to be filled in your poverty and need as you turn to Him.  Pray for wisdom in recognizing God’s answers to your need . . . and wisdom in being God’s answer to someone else’s need.  “Hear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.”  Psalm 86:1 (NIV)

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Lifestyle of Prayer: An Ever-Present God!

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“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

An Ever-Present God!

“But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the LORD.”
Jonah 1:3 (NIV)

This week’s prayer emphasis will have us praying about God’s presence being everywhere — even in those places we go to try to hide from Him.  While God promises to be “an ever-present help in time of need”, there are times we either try to run from God or feel we have somehow escaped His notice and are no longer able to be helped.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you live with a greater awareness of His presence — both in the times you want to be in His presence and in the times you think you are hidden.  Pray that you would learn to pay attention to God’s presence and find comfort in it.  Pray for greater courage to live life in obedience to God as you acknowledge His presence.  Pray about how you can more effectively represent God’s presence to others.

“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 grow in your awareness of His presence.

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:  Ever-Present In Spirit.  Pray that you would live with a greater awareness of God’s Spirit dwelling within you.  Pray for the courage to live by the Spirit in ways that help others to know God is ever-present.  Pray that you would experience God’s presence even in the times you attempt to hide from Him.  “Where can I go from your Spirit?  Where can I flee from your presence?”  Psalm 139:7 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Ever-Present In Heights or Depths.  Pray that you would seek God and know His presence in all the high points of your life.  Pray that you would find comfort and encouragement in God’s presence even in the deepest woes of life.  Pray that you would share God’s presence with others wherever they are.  “If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”  Psalm 139:8 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Ever-Present From Horizon to Horizon.  Pray that you would know the presence of God in every place that you go.  Pray about how God would have you to share in His presence everywhere you go.  Pray that you would be guided by God’s presence.  “If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.” Psalm 139:9-10 (NIV)

Thursday:  Ever-Present In Darkness and Light.  Pray that the light of God’s presence would illuminate your path in the darkness of this world.  Pray that your life would be a light to others because of God’s presence in you.  “If I say, ‘Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,’ even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.”  Psalm 139:11-12 (NIV)

Friday:  Ever-Present As You Were Formed.  Pray that you would always know the great value you have as one knit together by God.  Pray that you would value life because of God’s presence in its creation.  Pray about how God would have you live in ways that acknowledge His presence as you were being formed.  “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.”  Psalm 139:13 (NIV)

Saturday:  Ever-Present In Your Thoughts.  Pray that God’s thoughts would fill your thoughts as you spend time with Him in prayer and His Word.  Pray that you would live with eyes that see just how precious the thoughts of God are.  Pray for an increasing awareness of how vast the knowledge of God is as you contemplate the goodness of His presence.  “How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!  How vast is the sum of them!”  Psalm 139:17 (NIV)