daily prayer

February 16, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: The Correct Path!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

The Correct Path!

“Enter through the narrow gate.  For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.  But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”
Matthew 7:13-14 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer time on finding, walking, and proclaiming the correct path.  If you’ve ever followed a path or road which abruptly ended in a place no where near your intended destination, you likely understand the importance of following the correct path.  While Jesus states few will find the correct path, it is not because the path is hidden but rather many are not looking for it.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you know the path which leads to life so that you can walk on it every day.  Pray that you would actively seek God’s guidance as you spend time in His Word and in prayer.  Pray that your life would be evident to others in a way which points them to Jesus as the path of life.  Pray for wisdom in avoiding all the enticements of the path of destruction.  Pray for the humility to repent and change when you discover the path you are on is not correct.

“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 find, walk, and proclaim the correct path.

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 Guided Path.  Pray that God would help you notice, and follow, His guidance on the path that leads to life.  Pray that you would pay attention to the primary tools of God’s guidance for your life today — His Spirit and His Word.  “By day the pillar of cloud did not cease to guide them on their path, nor the pillar of fire by night to shine on the way they were to take.”  Nehemiah 9:19 (NIV)

Tuesday: A Joyful Path.  Pray that you would know the pleasure of walking the correct path with God.  Pray that you life would be filled with joy as you experience God’s presence with you.  Pray that your joy would be complete as you share with others about the path of life.  “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)

Wednesday: A Good Path.  Pray that you would turn to God, rather than to the world, for an understanding of what is truly right, just, and fair.  Pray that you would find the goodness of God displayed in your life as you walk the path set forth by Him.  Pray that you would know the goodness of a life which treats others fairly.  “Then you will understand what is right and just and fair — every good path.”  Proverbs 2:9 (NIV)

Thursday: A Righteous Path.  Pray for a clear understanding and pursuit of a righteousness which can only be found as you walk with God.  Pray that you would choose to be clothed with the righteousness of Christ which leads to eternal life.  Pray for wisdom in walking the path of righteousness as you seek eternity with God.  “In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.”  Proverbs 12:28 (NIV)

Friday: A Wise Path.  Pray that you would desire godly wisdom as more valuable than all the wisdom of the world.  Pray for a listening spirit and mind which can hear the instructions of God regarding the path you take.  Pray that the emotions of  your heart would  not lead you astray as you choose to listen to the wisdom of God for direction.  “Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path.”  Proverbs 23:19 (NIV)

Saturday:  A Level Path.  Pray that you would see how God levels your path toward Him even when the circumstances of life make the path seem difficult.  Pray that you would look for the good path which, regardless of difficulty, will not bring you harm.  Pray the smoothness of you path would be evident not by the lack of difficulty, but by the presence of God.  “The path of the righteous is level; O upright One, you make the way of the righteous smooth.”  Isaiah 26:7 (NIV)

February 9, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Fasting Made New!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Fasting Made New!

“This is what the LORD Almighty says: ‘The fasts of the fourth, fifth, seventh and tenth months will become joyful and glad occasions and happy festivals for Judah. Therefore love truth and peace.’”
Zechariah 8:19 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer time on growing in the practice of prayer and fasting.  While there are many who believe fasting is simply an Old Testament practice, we find Jesus giving new instruction about prayer and fasting as He teaches in what we call the Sermon On the Mount.  God’s desire is that our practice of prayer and fasting brings us closer to Him in ways that He is made more visible rather than us.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you consider the role fasting should have in your relationship with Him.  Pray that you would practice humility in all spiritual disciplines as you desire relationship with God over the showmanship of the world.  Pray that fasting, or any spiritual discipline, would be a joy rather than a burden as you deepen your desire for the things of God.  Pray that your growing relationship with Jesus would lead to a greater love of truth and peace.

“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 understand the value of fasting in your pursuit of 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 New Listening.  Pray that you would join with others in listening to God when the circumstances of life alarm you.  Pray that God would help you to know how fasting with purpose can lead to a greater listening to Him.  Pray for wisdom in asking others to join you in fasting.  “Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the LORD, and he proclaimed a fast for all Judah.”  2 Chronicles 20:3 (NIV)

Tuesday: A New Humility.  Pray that your seeking of God would be done in humility.  Ask God to help you know the value of fasting in seeking His help and direction.  Pray that your requests of God would always be made with reverence.  “There, by the Ahava Canal, I proclaimed a fast, so that we might humble ourselves before our God and ask him for a safe journey for us and our children, with all our possessions.”  Ezra 8:21 (NIV)

Wednesday: A New Mourning.  Pray that you would be serious about going to God in times of sorrow and heartache.  Pray for the patience to wait before God when life is filled with loss.  Pray that your times of mourning and fasting would prepare you to hear God.  “When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.”  Nehemiah 1:4 (NIV)

Thursday: A New Serving.  Pray that you would regularly spend time of “going without” for the purpose of serving others.  Pray that you would always seek God’s purpose to be accomplished through the fasting you do.  “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?”  Isaiah 58:6 (NIV)

Friday: A New Cry.  Pray that you would cry out to God as you ask others to join you in seeking Him.  Pray that you would know the sacredness of coming together with others in fasting to cry out to God.  “Declare a holy fast; call a sacred assembly.  Summon the elders and all who live in the land to the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD.”  Joel 1:14 (NIV)

Saturday:  A  New Worship.  Pray that you would experience fasting as an act of worship.  Pray for clarity in understanding what God wants to accomplish in your times of fasting.  Pray that you would listen for what God wants you to know and what He wants you to share with others.  “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’”  Acts 13:2 (NIV)

February 2, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Beyond What Was Heard!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Beyond What Was Heard!

“For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 5:20 (NIV)

This week we will focus our prayer time on gazing into God’s Word to discover how His heart ought to define the way we apply that which we have heard.  God’s desire is that we know Him in a way that surpasses the legalistic righteousness of those who know the letter of the law without understanding its intent.  Applying that which you have heard is only useful if you understand what the One speaking meant.  As you pray this week, pray not only for ears which hear the Word of God, but also for a heart which seeks His help in understanding and doing His will.  Pray that you would grow in knowing how God’s laws are meant to help us know Him.  Pray for a compassionate response to people as they learn to apply God’s Word in their life.  Pray for wisdom in overcoming the entanglements of sin before they grow into an overwhelming destructive force in your life.

“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 a pursuit of Him helps you more fully understand what you have heard from His 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:  Beyond Murder.  Pray that you would see beyond the act of murder to know how the harboring of anger also destroys lives.  Pray for the courage and humility to settle differences and forgive those you may be angry with.  Pray for God’s help in learning how to deal with anger in ways that don’t lead to sin.  “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not murder’.”  Matthew 5:21 (NIV)

Tuesday:  Beyond Adultery.  Pray that you would see beyond the unfaithfulness of adultery to know how lust creates a destructive unfaithfulness also.  Pray for a purity of sight and actions which would keep your desires from leading you into sin.  Pray for a growing faithfulness to God in all things.  “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’“  Matthew 5:27 (NIV)

Wednesday:  Beyond Selfishness.  Pray that you would see beyond the rejection of marriage vows to see how selfishness leads to the breakdown of many relationships.  Pray that you would protect the relationships of others.  Pray that you would have the courage to work at maintaining and growing godly relationships.  “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’“  Matthew 5:31 (NIV)

Thursday:  Beyond Promises.  Pray that you would see beyond the distinctions of oaths so that you would know the value of keeping your word at all times.  Pray that you would give careful thought to your words so that your actions are consistent with what you say.  “Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.’“  Matthew 5:33 (NIV)

Friday:  Beyond Revenge.  Pray that you would see beyond the desire for revenge as you choose to consider the needs of others to be more important than your own.  Pray that you would find joy in letting God deal with those who do evil and seek to harm you.  Pray for a growing spirit of generosity to replace the desire for revenge.  “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’“  Matthew 5:38 (NIV)

Saturday:  Beyond Hatred.  Pray that you would see beyond the expectation to hate those who are enemies as you learn to love people the way God loves you.  Pray for those who would persecute and mistreat you.  Pray that the love you have for those who love you would also be displayed in the way you love those you don’t get along with.  “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’“  Matthew 5:43 (NIV)

January 26, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: A Blessed Life!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

A Blessed Life!

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.’”  
Matthew 25:34 (NIV)

This week we focus on part of the Beatitudes as a prayer guide!  Being blessed means a lot of different things to people based often on the things we prioritize.  When Jesus taught about the things that ought to make His children so very happy, He did so in ways that turn the worlds ideals of health, wealth, and comfort upside down.  The real blessings of life that God would have us to pursue are blessings that transcend the things of this earth.  As you pray this week, ask God to give you a greater understanding of His view of being blessed.  As you pray  about each day’s topic, pray that you will see beyond the ordinary and that God will use that characteristic in your life to bring blessing to you and to others through you.  Pray for the people in your life.  Pray for your family, your neighbors, your church family, your co-workers, and anyone else God brings to your mind.  Pray also that the blessings of these qualities would be ever-increasing in your life.

“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 real blessing in the routines of life.

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: Blessed are Those Who Mourn.  Pray that your realization and expression of loss would lead you to the comfort of God’s love.  Pray that your mourning would receive God’s comfort so you may comfort others.  Pray that your life would share the good news of God’s comfort as you interact with those who mourn.  “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”  Matthew 5:4 (NIV)

Tuesday: Blessed are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness.   Pray that your hunger and thirst for the things of God would fill you with His righteousness.  Pray that your desires would always be turned to the things which are right.  Pray for opportunities to share with others from the righteousness which God has filled you with.  “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”  Matthew 5:6 (NIV)

Wednesday: Blessed are the Merciful.  Pray for God’s help in being merciful as you encounter those who are in need.  Pray that God would fill you with an understanding of your need for mercy in such a way that you would show mercy to others.  Pray that God’s mercy would be received by those you pray for today.  “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”  Matthew 5:7 (NIV)

Thursday: Blessed are the Pure In Heart.  Pray that your desire to see God would lead you to a cleansing of your heart through the blood of Jesus.  Pray that your dealings with others would come from a pure heart.  Pray that God would purify the hearts of those you pray for today so that they would see God.  “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”  Matthew 5:8 (NIV)

Friday: Blessed are the Peacemakers.  Pray that you would look for ways to make peace in the situations you face.  Pray that being a child of God would lead you to being a peacemaker where you live.  Pray that your life would be an example to others as they seek peace in all of their relationships.  “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”  Matthew 5:9 (NIV)

Saturday:  Blessed are The Persecuted.  Pray that you would understand the difference between being persecuted for righteousness and just being treated badly.  Pray that God’s blessings would help you to do right no matter what as you live as a citizen of God’s kingdom.  “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”  Matthew 5:10 (NIV)

January 19, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Called To Come!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Called To Come!

“Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”  
Matthew 4:19 (NIV)

Our prayer emphasis this week will focus on responding to the call of Jesus to come, follow Him.  The call of Jesus to follow Him is not meant to be a passive following like is often done on social media.  No, it is a call to action as we come to where He is and then we follow His actions in regard to both where He goes and how He lives.  In fact, Jesus says that if we wish to come after Him we must take up our cross daily and follow Him even in our dying to self.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you grow in your desire to come and follow Jesus.  Pray that you would understand the need for an active following of the ways and teachings of God’s Word.  Pray for an eagerness to become more like Jesus in all your ways.  Pray that your response to God would daily be an active movement toward Him.  Pray for wisdom in living a life that invites others to come and follow Jesus.  Pray that your following of Jesus would result in a great catch of people for God’s kingdom.

“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 respond to His call.

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: Come and Find Rest.  Pray that you would respond to the call of Jesus to find a place or rest in Him.  Pray for all who are weary, that they would find rest in Jesus.  Pray that you would always find the burdens of your life to be lightened as you place them in the care of Jesus.  “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”  Matthew 11:28 (NIV)

Tuesday: Come To Your Senses.  Pray that you would recognize the deceptiveness of sin as you come to your senses with the help of God’s Spirit.  Pray that you would not be ignorant of God or His ways so that you would not be brought to shame.  “Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God — I say this to your shame.”  1 Corinthians 15:34 (NIV)

Wednesday: Come and Be Cleansed.  Pray that you would have the courage and wisdom to leave the things of sin as you approach Jesus to be cleansed.  Pray for a growing desire to live a life set apart to honor God.  Pray for a purity of mind to keep yourself holy.  “Therefore come out from them and be separate, says the Lord.  Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”  2 Corinthians 6:17 (NIV)

Thursday: Come Near To God.  Pray that your desire would always be to come near to God in your thoughts and actions.  Pray that you would know the nearness of God’s response as you approach Him by faith.  Pray for a steadfast mind that desires the nearness of God.  “Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”  James 4:8 (NIV)

Friday: Come To Repentance.  Pray for a growing understanding of God’s patience, both with you and with those around you, as He calls all people to repentance.  Pray that you would learn patience with those who still need to repent.  “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

Saturday:  Come and Drink Life.  Pray that you would always desire to drink of the water of life.  Pray that you would call others to come to Jesus and drink life.  Pray for a growing thirst for Jesus and the life which He gives.  “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.”  Revelation 22:17 (NIV)

January 12, 2025 by Tom

Lifestyle of Prayer: Ready For the Test!

“A Lifestyle of Prayer”

Ready For the Test!

 

“No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.”  
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV)

Our prayer emphasis this week will focus on being ready to face, and overcome, the temptations which come our way.  Temptations, when handled poorly, will often lead us to sin.  When handled correctly, however, those same temptations can serve as a test which illuminates our growth in Christ.  As Jesus was led into the desert to face temptation, He dis so as one prepared for the test through prayer, fasting, and the Word of God.  As you pray this week, ask God to help you be ready for every test you will face.  Pray that you live life preparing yourself to be ready for the temptations which are common to mankind.  Pray that the testing of your faith would always produce a confidence in the faithfulness of God.  Pray that God would fill you with wisdom to know when to stand against temptation and when to follow the way out which God provides..

“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, with His help, to be ready for every test.

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: Tested By Opposition.  Pray that your response to those who oppose the message of Christ would always be based out of humility.  Pray that you would learn to serve with greater humility even as your faith is tested by those who disagree with you.  “I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, although I was severely tested by the plots of the Jews.”  Acts 20:19 (NIV)

Tuesday: Tested For Obedience.  Pray that you would learn godly obedience when faced with testing of any kind.  Pray that you learn God’s Word for the purpose of knowing how He wants you to live.  Pray that your life of obedience to Christ would be an example to all.  “The reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything.”  2 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV)

Wednesday: Tested In Sincerity.  Pray that your response to the needs of others would reflect the sincerity of your love for people.  Pray for an awareness of how your good works done for God are tested not by a comparison of size, but rather by a comparison of desire.  “I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.”  2 Corinthians 8:8 (NIV)

Thursday: Tested Individually.  Pray for clarity in testing your own actions by the standard of God’s presence in your life.  Pray that you would live with confidence in the way you offer the best of yourself to God.  Pray that you would avoid the trap of individual comparisons.  “Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else.”  Galatians 6:4 (NIV)

Friday: Tested To Serve.  Pray that you would prove your faithfulness in the small things on your way to doing greater things for Christ.  Pray that you would use every opportunity to learn and prepare for whatever God would lead you to next.  Pray that you would be faithful in a growing responsibility of service.  “They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.”  1 Timothy 3:10 (NIV)

Saturday:  Tested Through Perseverance.  Pray that you would understand the difficulties of life as a test which shows to you a growing faith.  Pray that you would keep your eyes focused on the eternal prize which awaits all who stand the test of faithfulness.  “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”  James 1:12 (NIV)

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)