To some the Bible is just a Book

" I Can Speak HIS Word " by Tara Dillon
    

To some, the Bible is just a book with a lot of words that some say they don’t understand. But to a desperate child of God, it is life and hope.

I am a mother to four very wonderful people. I have two beautiful girls who are married to wonderful ministers of the gospel and two handsome young men still at home. My husband and I have been very fortunate in the child-rearing area of teenagers and young adult stages of life. This year, however, the devil attacked our family in a new deceptive way that we never could have imagined.

In this crisis, I became desperate for God’s direction and leading in our family and home. We prayed more, fasted more, sought counsel, and began to re-evaluate some things in our lives.

We both work, myself part-time and my husband full-time, on top of Hyphen ministry, Bible quiz coaching, church leadership team, and jail ministry. If you asked us what we enjoyed, we would tell you all of it. However, did we love it more than family? Nothing matters more than our family and home.

We realized that while we were working for the Kingdom, but we were not ministering where it was the most important: our family. We began evaluating every area of our lives. As a result, we kept the same ministries, but we tweaked how they affected our daily lives. During this time, God quickened me to pray the Word over my children and home. This concept was not foreign to me. After all, I have years in Bible quiz ministry. I encourage young people to pray the Word, and I have prayed the Word many times.

I prayed constantly throughout the day and part of the night. Although things changed, it was still a battle. I woke up and anointed my boys’ clothes, prayed over their pillows, prayed over the house, and rebuked any hindering spirits in my home. But I needed something stronger.

When I felt the nudge of God to pray the Word, HIS Word, my thoughts first went to Proverbs for instruction. I placed my child’s name in the scripture. For example, in Proverbs 1:8 you can pray, “Let (child’s name) hear the instruction of their father and not forsake the law of their mother.” In Proverbs 4:13 you can pray, “Lord, help my children to ‘Take hold of instruction; let her not go; for she is their life.’” Make scripture personal when you pray over your kids!

In closing, after praying the Word over my children and my home every night, things began to fall into place. Sister Joy Haney’s, PRAY the Word, became my best strength. God began leading and guiding us step by step. He was moving before, but my words are not HIS Words!! For example, I had prayed Hebrews 4:12 many times before, but this time I prayed that verse with tears pouring down my face. During this time, I realized that HIS Words are exactly what I need.

 “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”

This scripture incorporates it all, for the Word is what I need spiritually, physically, and mentally all the time. When I don’t know what to pray, HIS Word is the answer.

(Information from: Ladies Prayer International Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesprayerinternational -aol.com@shared1.ccsend.com) 

Many still do not recognize Jesus

"Recognizing Jesus" by Mary Loudermilk

“And their eyes were opened, and they knew him . . . .” (Luke 24:31a). 

I’ve heard people say how exciting it would be to have lived at the time of Jesus—to see Him, follow Him, hear Him teach. What an incredible experience! Yet I wonder, would I have recognized Him? Would I have believed? Been indifferent? Scoffed? I hope I would have recognized and accepted Him as Messiah, but many did not.

“What about the prophecies?” we may ask. Jesus fulfilled all the Old Testament prophecies. Didn’t they see? Didn’t they understand? We are looking back, putting all the pieces of the puzzle together and seeing the whole picture. They, with their preconceived ideas of how those prophecies would be fulfilled, did not recognize what was taking place in their midst.

No doubt other infant boys were born in Bethlehem around that time. Unusual circumstances? Yes, but those were unusual times. Oh, there were stories about shepherds seeing angels and strangers arriving from the East who talked about a bright star, but things were so chaotic with the crowds and the taxation. Who knows? Then one day the family was just gone. No one knew where. People soon forgot the couple and their baby.

Nor was Jesus the only iterant rabbi (teacher) who walked the dusty roads of Israel, teaching any who followed Him. Others had claimed to be Messiah, and no doubt others would come later. As the folks of Nazareth said, “Isn’t that Jospeh’s son?” (Luke 4:22). And in their minds they may have added, “And wasn’t there a question about His mom and a rushed wedding?”

Consider the times when even Jesus’ own disciples did not recognize him.

    He walked on the water toward them, and they were afraid (Matthew 14:25-27).
    Mary Magdalene saw Him at the tomb and thought He was the gardener (John 20:14-16).
    Two disciples walked with Him on the road from Jerusalem to Emmaus, some seven miles, and did not realize it was Jesus (Luke 24:13-35).

We live in a world where many still do not recognize Jesus. They do not look with eyes of faith, much like those in Nazareth who thought He was “just Joseph’s boy.” But it’s not just the non-Christian who does not recognize Jesus. We too may be guilty of overlooking Him in our life’s situations.

Perhaps one reason we do not see Jesus in our circumstances is because we have fixed ideas of how He will work. This mindset—putting Him in a box—limits our vision of Him and His power in our lives.

Jesus is waiting for us to see Him for who He is. He wants to move outside the boundaries we have set that limit Him. We must open our eyes. God is at work.

(Information from: Pure Ministry - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesconnections-upci.org@shared1.ccsend.com) 

Do I wait and watch for the Lord

Waiting by Caitlin Walker

“My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.” (Psalm 130:6)

We often associate night with trials, and darkness with struggle and rough seasons of life. I don’t know about you, but I certainly do not enjoy harsh seasons. Rather I see them as something I need to suffer through and claw my way out of, barely surviving.
    

The above scripture in the New Living Translation says, “I long for the Lord more than sentries long for the dawn, yes, more than sentries long for the dawn.” A sentry is a soldier who stands guard all night to watch for enemy attacks, fires, unauthorized people, etc. They are members of the first line of defense, and their main goal is to signal to the people they are protecting that danger isn’t too far off.

Imagine a soldier standing at the ready with drowsy eyelids, forcing himself to stay awake. The people’s very survival depends on this man watching the horizon all night. I would be terrible at night shifts, so I can only imagine how hard the job would be and the tremendous pressure. I can hear the sigh of relief when the first ray of sunshine peeks over the horizon.

I have to ask myself: do I wait and watch for the Lord as these men did? Am I anticipating His arrival, anxiously awaiting to see miracles, signs, and wonders? Do I see deliverance off in the distance, or am I consumed with frustration because I can’t seem to see Him working?

Lift your eyes today! Just as the sentries watch for the sunrise, wait and watch for the Lord. He will show up, He will work it out, and He is coming back for His people! Keep hoping, believing, and praying. He is always on time.

(Information from: Pure Ministry - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesconnections-upci.org@shared1.ccsend.com) 

The Spiritual Captive

" Prayer Guide for the Spiritual Captive "
 Prayers for the spiritual captive should be passionate prayers. Interceding for others in need should be done with prayers that pour out of you like the cries of a mother in travail (Isaiah 26:16-17). As you pray for the spiritual captive, pray earnestly and specifically for them by name and for their specific needs.

 
This prayer guide is based on the actions of the church in Acts 12 as they prayed for Peter who was bound in chains in prison. Their continuous prayers led to his miraculous release. May we follow their lead and pray accordingly.

 
Concerning the Spiritual Captive:

    Pray for understanding and for their eyes to be opened to see truth, their true condition, and to see the Lord's helping hand reaching for them.
    Pray for the Lord to "wake them up," shake them, startle them, and get their attention!
    Pray for the Lord to speak to them–speak to their soul, their needs, and their hearts. 
    Ask the Lord to bring them to the point of repentance, causing them to cast off all they used to be. "Draw them to You! Call them to follow You!"
    Pray that the Lord would do a miraculous work in them that even they can't believe! 
    Specifically name a miracle they need.
    Pray for the spiritual prison doors to be opened around them, for their chains to be loosed, and for them to be set free. Ask Jesus to remove any obstacles that stand in the way of their victory. "Order their steps with Your Word, dear Lord!" 
    Pray for the Lord to give them boldness to tell others about their deliverance and for the Kingdom to grow through their testimony. 
    In an act of faith, declare victory in their life. Instruct their chains to break, their prison doors to be opened, and their pathway of life to be made straight. Pray in the authority of the Word of God. Quote scriptures that are applicable to their situation.  
     Thank God for all He is doing in their life. Rejoice over their salvation!


"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16). 

  
Rick Lovall                                                                                                                             
Director
UPCI Stewardship Group
(Information from: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com)

We live in such a dark world

"LIGHT"

We live in such a dark world, yet we are filled with the light of Jesus Christ. We must learn to let that light shine bright in every place we go. Matthew 5:14 and 16 says, "Ye are the light of the world ... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

 Please Pray:
    we will not fear the darkness of this world
    we will learn to be a light no matter where we are
    that those who want to leave the darkness will be drawn to God’s light in us

You will be ready to be a light to those who are seeking.

Tiffini Countaway, Conference Services Manager
MyHopeRadio Web Producer
United Pentecostal Church International 
(Info from: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com)

The Blind

"The Country of the Blind"

"And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha" (II Kings 6:17).

I heard a story mentioned by Rev. Ken Gurley during a daily devotion session that caught my attention.

H.G. Wells wrote a short story called “The Country of the Blind.” It has such a parallel to our battle in helping our world to see Christ!

A mountain climber gets hurt during climbing and stumbles into a village that has been separated from the rest of civilization.

As he began stumbling down to the village late in the day, he called out to the people he could see in the village. They turned toward the sound of his voice, but did not really see him.

As he came closer, he noticed no windows in the homes, ropes along the walking paths, and discovered that they were all blind.

They helped minister to his wounds and were kind, but when he tried to tell them about what he saw on his climb, they didn’t believe him, because they never could see.

Decades ago, a disease had begun to strike the children with blindness, and as time went on, all who could still see, died off. With them the stories of vision died also.

So, as he told of what he saw, they didn’t believe him. As time went on, he healed up and began to work with the community. They thought he was crazy when describing what he would see. They would do work at night as the heat of the day was uncomfortable.

He fell in love with the leader’s daughter, and wanted to marry her, but they thought his craziness of seeing things was too much. They finally had the doctor of the community check him out. When examining him, he felt the darting and movement of his eyes and determined that this was the cause of his craziness. So, he would be allowed to marry the daughter, if he would let them remove his eyes and be like them. He agreed.

However, at sunrise on the day of the operation, while all the villagers are asleep, He saw the morning, like a golden armored angel coming down the steps, it seemed to him, that before this splendor he and his blind world in this valley, and his love were no more than a pit of sin.

He then understood the following: My world is sight! He then climbed out of the village, and left the Country of the Blind.

Our world wants to remove our eyes, what we have seen in Christ, what He has told us in prayer, what we have seen in His glory!

Your world is seeing the truth of God’s power, promises, and truth. The world has forgotten the sights of Christ, His promises, and love. Because they have walked in the world so long, they may have forgotten how to see Christ. Don’t let them remove your eyes that see, but pray that God restores their sight. Spiritually, pray for The Country of the Blind.

Rev. Patrick Alvarez
WNOP NW Regional Prayer Coordinator 
Washington District Prayer Coordinator 
(Info from: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com)

Run with patience the race that is set before us

The Scripture says...
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

4 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

5 And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:

6 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.

7 If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

8 But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?

10 For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.

11 Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.

12 Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees;

13 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord...

From the Scriptures: Hebrews 12:1-14 KJV 

What God told him to receive his healing

Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the Lord had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.

2 And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman's wife.

3 And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy.

4 And one went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maid that is of the land of Israel.

5 And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment.

6 And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.

7 And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that he rent his clothes, and said, Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? wherefore consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me.

8 And it was so, when Elisha the man of God had heard that the king of Israel had rent his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, Wherefore hast thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.

9 So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha.

10 And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.

11 But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.

12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.

13 And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?

14 Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

15 And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and stood before him: and he said, Behold, now I know that there is no God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a blessing of thy servant.

16 But he said, As the Lord liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive none. And he urged him to take it; but he refused.

From the Scriptures: 2 Kings 5:1-16 KJV.

The Glory of God

" Seeing the GLORY of God! "

As the coming of the Lord approaches, now is the time to move from the natural to the supernatural. God led His people by a pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night (Exodus 13:21). He is still leading us today by His Spirit (John 16:13). Prayer is a vital key in our endeavor to see the glory of God manifested today.

The supreme purpose of prayer from God’s vantage point is to accomplish His perfect will in His kingdom, in our lives, and in the lives of others. Some key components in helping us see the glory of God are:
 
Put God First and Practice Self-Discipline in Prayer

We must wake up and realize that the time is short; we must watch and pray. We should endeavor to fulfill God’s great purpose on earth in our lives.

Practice a Consecrated Lifestyle and Living a Crucified Life in Christ

We must “put on Christ” and commit totally to Him. The more we crucify the flesh by prayer and fasting, the more we will see the supernatural. When we love God and one another and allow the fruit of the Spirit to operate, we will see God’s glory manifested.

Pray the Will of God in All Situations

Many people are so busy telling God how they want Him to answer that they never allow Him to reveal how He wants them to pray. Find out what God’s will is, pray it with faith, and it will be done.

Position Yourself to Always Obey the Voice of God

Get in one mind and one accord with the Spirit of God. Obey His Word. Worship Him. Get into alignment with God. Get into fellowship with other believers to reap the harvest. Choose to be a vital link of prayer that unites rather than being part of a chain of prayerlessness that binds. Nothing is impossible as we unite in prayer, believing in one God, one church, and one mission.

Permit the Spirit of God to Flow and His Glory to Be Manifested in Your Life

Allow God’s Spirit to prevail in prayer. Do not be limited by programs or protocols, but allow His Spirit to move. God responds to the prayers of His people.

In the Book of Acts prayer preceded great demonstrations of God’s glory. We must go back to the foundation of prayer to see a great end-time harvest.

Because their prayers in the past were not answered to their satisfaction, some may ask, “What is the use of praying?” The Bible says that Elijah “prayed again” (James 5:18). If he had not prayed again he would not have seen the downpour of rain. So is it with us—we must be persistent in prayer. Paul said, “Pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17). Determine that what is of utmost important in your life is “seeing the glory of God!”

Flo Shaw
Director
World Network of Prayer
Info from: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com 

Praying Fervent and Effectual to God

" FERVENT AND EFFECTUAL PRAYER " 

There are important aspects to prayer that make our praying fervent and effectual unto God:
    Prayers that focus to know Jesus in an intimate way to know His ways, His character and His resurrection love.
    Prayers to become like Him where the Word becomes flesh in our own character and value system.
    Prayers that relationally serves others and transfers His nature to those we love and are committed to.
    Prayers that focuses on reaching the hurting and the lost. Our prayers must mature beyond just our personal needs and our personal self-interest to becoming conduits for God’s presence and to pray through us, for others, according to His sovereign divine plan.
    Prayers that oppose the kingdom of darkness. We were commanded to occupy until Jesus returns. These are prayers that stand our ground for holiness living. Prayers that stand our grounds against immorality and perversion. To exalt the name of Jesus in the face of all evil.

These five prayers make our act of prayer biblically fervent and effectual for kingdom living.

“That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death” (Philippians 3:10);

Effectual, fervent praying is growing in the maturity and knowledge of his word and nature, relationally, with Jesus Christ and with others.

It’s possible to perfect one area and neglect the others. Effectual, fervent praying seeks balance and the heart of God intimately.
Ultimately, our goal is to pray His heart and not a regimented catechism of repetitious praying that Jesus warned us not to do.
    God’s number one goal is to have access to our heart as His throne room for operating on earth.

“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13):

Pastor Don Rogers                                                                                                                                           
The Pentecostals of Wisconsin                                                                                                        
WNOP North Central Regional Prayer Coordinator
Info from: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com

We live in a world that wants everything

"Waiting on the Lord" by Anne Johnston.
    

“But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

We live in a world that wants everything to happen immediately. We do not want to wait. The advertisements shout “Buy Now, Pay Later.” So many people are deep in credit card debt because they listened to this appeal. We no longer make meals from scratch but rely on frozen prepared foods that will heat quickly in the microwave.

How many times have you made a phone call asking for information or help and been put on hold? We all hate that message: “Your call is important to us, please stay on the line and someone will be with you shortly.” We usually hang up in frustration because we do not have time to wait.

In the Bible we have examples of people praying, asking God for an answer, and having to wait before they received what they needed. Abraham and Sarah waited for years for Isaac. Isaac and Rebekah were married for years before Jacob and Esau were born. Joseph served faithfully as he waited for God to fulfill his dreams.

As we pray for children who have wandered away from the Lord, we would like for them to return to the fold “today.” Often, we suggest ways to the Lord that He could reach them. When waiting seems hard, remember that the Lord has a perfect plan for us and them. He knows the future. We must never cease praying for their salvation, but we must leave the “where, how, and when” to Him.

I found this interesting quote about Isaiah 40:3l.

“At first sight, we should have expected that it would advance from walking to running, and so to flying. But that order is reversed. It is more difficult to walk than to mount! Every cyclist will tell you that the hardest task is to keep your cycle at a walking pace.”

God’s ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best. It is not His will that any should perish. He loves that wayward son or daughter far more than you and I do. If you have earnestly sought the Lord and received a promise from Him, stand firm upon it and trust Him to work out the details. We do not know what tomorrow holds, but He does. Just keep walking and waiting.

Philippians 1:6 tells us, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”

( Information from: Ladies Prayer International Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesprayerinternational-aol.com@shared1.ccsend.com ) 
 

They that wait upon the Lord

"Wait on the Lord" by Kay Burgess.
    

“They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

In Spanish the word for “expect” and “wait” is the same—esperar. It means to wait with expectation and is synonymous with trust (confiar) and believe (creer).

We commonly say in English that a woman who is pregnant with a child is “expecting.” While we know that the miraculous work of creation taking place within her womb is somewhat out of her human control, a wise woman knows that she must be busy and responsible while waiting. She should be eating properly so that her child will be nourished. She should be preparing a nursery, clothing, and the many different items and changes necessary for the arrival of a new baby. What she should not be doing is just sitting around waiting nine months for her child to arrive without making the necessary preparations. 

We “wait” on the Lord, but with active expectation. We “wait” trustingly for Him to do His sovereign work in our children, but we must be busy while waiting! We must be about the business of nurturing, teaching, guiding, building, and “raising up” our children so that they are properly prepared and positioned for God´s plan in their lives. More than ever today, we cannot be found sitting around waiting helplessly for an outcome that is sure to disappoint if we have not invested the time and effort necessary for their salvation.

I see many women in the Bible who kept busy while waiting and therefore saw the miraculous results in their children. Jocabed gave birth secretly, kept him hidden, built an ark, and made a plan for young Moses all while knowing that her time with him was short. Yet her time with him was so effective that later he refused his royal heritage and chose rather to be known as a child of God.

Hannah prayed, got her answer from God, and returned to home to prepare for childbirth. She also took advantage of the short time she had with her son before returning him to the House of God – so much so that Samuel grew up to become the last judge and greatest prophet in Israel.

Even Mary, so young, was wise enough to actively seek out an older cousin who could understand her situation and give her godly counsel.

We mustn’t be guilty of trying to help God out with His sovereign part – think Sarah and Hagar – which will yield us disastrous results just as it did for Sarah. If God has promised, it will come to pass in His time and in His plan – without our human intervention in the process. But it does require our faithful and consistent walk with God and our conviction that He will do what He has promised.

So keep praying, believing, and working while you are waiting. Prepare the way for the promise that God has given you. Keep the home fires burning for the prodigal that will be returning. God is not slack concerning His promises, and it is His desire that our children be saved.

( Information from: Ladies Prayer International Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesprayerinternational-aol.com@shared1.ccsend.com ) 

Intercessory Prayer

"The Power of Intercessory Prayer" by Angela Overton.

 "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groaning which cannot be uttered.” (Romans 8:26)

Several years ago in Bible College, I developed an undeniable burden for a family member who had fallen away from God. I entered into a season of fasting and prayer for this individual, believing that God was going to do something miraculous in their life. One afternoon, I entered the prayer room, and a spirit of intercession came over me.

I prayed for almost five hours; it was physically exhausting, and I felt like an iron ball was in my stomach, weighing me down, causing me to remain tethered to the floor. In those few hours, it was as though I felt all of the shame, heartache, fear, regret, and pain of my loved one. My burden was great. In my desperation, I cried out to the Lord, “Take this burden from me, it’s too heavy for me to bear anymore.”

At that moment the Lord spoke to my spirit so beautifully said, “What you have felt for your family member, I have felt for the whole world.”

I proceeded to weep and thank God for His great love for humanity.



We serve a God who is touched with the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15), meaning everything you have gone through, our Savior has carried it personally on the cross.

There is a power of intercessory prayer because when we pray in our understanding, we pray our prayer; we pray our own will. However, intercessory prayer lends oneself completely to God. Essentially, you say, “God, pray your prayers through me, I desire to be a vessel.”

I’m thankful to share with you that the person I prayed for that day years ago is now back in church and actively serving in ministry. God hears every prayer you pray and He loves your family and friends even more than you do. Continue to seek His face and yield your spirit to God’s.

(Information from: Pure Ministry Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesconnections-upci.org@shared1.ccsend.com)

Faith is my favorite seed

"Dormant Seed" by Jennifer Brooks.

Every year it’s inevitable that my garden will produce a plant that was sown in a previous year. The bountiful surprise always leaves me with a smile on my face. The precious seed needed time for whatever reason to blossom. However, the growth would have never taken place had a seed not been sown.
    

I can’t recall how many times I’ve rehearsed over and over in my mind the seeds of prayer that others have placed in my heart. Seeds that lay dormant for countless years with no indication of growth, no matter how much they were watered. But God!

It can be frustrating to select a new vegetable to add to your seasonal crops, only to discover that the germination failed. Planting seeds in others can leave us kicking and screaming inside as we wait for the growing season. It’s a very beautiful breathtaking moment when a loved one gives their heart and soul to Jesus. But what do you do when you’ve prayed, you’ve planted seeds for a very long time, you’ve done all you could do, and you never witnessed the moment?

The answer is you keep doing you. People are watching you. Trust me, there is someone you are shining a light for and you’re making a difference for that person. My dear grandmother who raised me in a UPCI Apostolic Church since I was age five, went to her grave never knowing if the seeds she planted would ever take root. Thank the Lord they took root!

Faith is my favorite seed that sprouted. The intense feeling of strong faith is what kept me adamantly focused on the Lord during the hardest battles a person can face. The sudden death of our 18-year-old son as a result of a homicide left me bruised and broken. However, the Lord picked me up and rebuilt all the pieces. I often get asked, “How can you speak so calmly about your son after everything that happened?” My answer without hesitation, “We are a family that has strong faith.”

Strong faith simply implies that you believe in the one that can move those mountains. It’s rarely a casual assumption that the Lord can remove obstacles from your life that will leave you feeling complete, but instead it must be an absolute knowing. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t still have those moments where memories of my baby boy will flash in mind, causing an emotional uproar in my heart. It was a devasting thing to go through. Strong faith doesn’t mean you never break down into a sobbing mess. On the contrary, sobs usually lead to stronger faith.

To plant seeds or ideas into a person is going to require a process of germination, so to speak. The process will require nurturing, commitment, prayer, and the right season to flourish.

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9)

I don’t know about you, but I have absolutely no intention of giving up on others. Now let me clarify some situations will call for a small dose of wisdom. If you proceed to witness to a person with a persistence too strong, you could run that person further away from truth. On the other hand, if you're not persistent enough at various times, that could also lead to failed attempts. The best approach is God’s timing.

“A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!” (Proverbs 15:23)

Sometimes you plant seeds by saying nothing at all. The way you carry yourself, the way you put God first no matter what, and the way you live, all speak of your life and how you believe. Even when trials manifest in your situations, and they leave you hurt, crying, and devastated, others are watching how you respond to such pain. Handing over the hurt to the Lord while going through the motions of your mundane everyday tasks, speaks volumes of your character and your faith.

(Information from: Pure Ministry Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesconnections-upci.org@shared1.ccsend.com)

Improve communication in your Marriage

Life Coach Lakelie Lopez explains how understanding your own personality can improve communication in your marriage.
"The Key to Better Communication"

Have you ever wondered why you click with some people almost instantly, while, with others, every conversation feels like a struggle? The answer often lies in our personalities. Personality encompasses the unique blend of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that make us, us. It is a collection of characteristics and behaviors that make each person and their response to the world around them unique. Our personality also shapes how we communicate and relate to others.

Effective communication can be challenging when two uniquely different personalities are joined together. A married couple may sometimes feel they need a translator to help decipher what their mate is trying to communicate. According to an article published in The Journal of Divorce and Remarriage in 2012, 53 percent of couples cite not being able to communicate effectively as a reason for divorce.

Understanding our personality improves communication and enhances our marriage and other relationships. As the saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” Peter Scazzero, author of Emotionally Healthy Spirituality, states, “The vast majority of us go to our graves without knowing who we are. We unconsciously live someone else’s life, or at least someone else’s expectations for us.” Recognizing our unique traits and emotions can empower us, placing us firmly in control of our interactions.

Being tuned in to who we are is key to effective communication within marriage, enabling us to become the whole person God created us to be. Consider what energizes you, brings you joy, or drains you. How do you best learn and receive criticism or praise? Are you in control of your emotions, or are they controlling you? The more we understand why we are the way we are, the more we can adapt, adjust, and improve—putting us in the driver’s seat of our emotional and mental health. 

The following are practical steps to self-discovery.

Take a Personality Assessment: Taking a personality test with your spouse can be enlightening. Remember, the goal is not to find excuses for our behavior or to label each other, but to uncover opportunities for personal growth and deeper connection.

Develop Emotional Intelligence: This involves improving skills in five key areas.

    Self-Awareness: Understand your strengths and weaknesses.
    Self-Regulation: Monitor your thoughts and emotions and accept responsibility for your actions.
    Motivation: Aim for realistic goals and embrace change.
    Social Skills: Be adaptable and ready to compromise.
    Empathy: Enhance your listening skills and strive to understand others' perspectives.

Understanding ourselves better and taking the time to understand our spouse more fully can open the door to better communication and a fuller realization of our potential. With better self-understanding and emotional intelligence, enhancing communication isn't just a goal—it’s a journey. 

What steps will you take today to start this journey with your spouse?

(Information from: Family Life Ministries Newsletter - UPCI Family Ministries - family@upci.org) 

Some useful Videos

Access some useful Spiritual Videos Information
Most videos are from YouTube Channels online. Just use the link provided to see the videos. We are sharing some useful videos to help others who may be seeking Information that are relevant and connected to the Bible Scriptures and Teachings.
  
When Revival Comes 
by Johnny Godair BOTT 1990
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QJxMb2XgZg

The Progression of the Word
by Dr. Gerald Jeffers - Song of Solomon 2: 8-14 KJV
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtKnPFnlCuw

Yoked up with God. 
(RE: God will not put a Spiritual with a non Spiritual, Donkey and Ox, he cleaned Church toilet before preaching, etc)
by Dr Gerald Jeffers
YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW5khzEkgZg 

What the Word of God says about The Leviathan 
Dr Gerald Jeffers with his wife Sister Jeffers Music/Singing Ministry
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDgy3V-TFC0 
NB: To win the battle over sin and the devil each day ...you have to agree with God that God is right, your flesh and the devil are wrong! (See Amos 3:3 KJV).

The Power of the Spoken Word
by Dr Gerald Jeffers with Sister Jeffers Music/Singing Ministry
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rx-lGe8Qsko  

To win the battle over sin and the devil each day ...you have to agree with God that God is right, and your flesh and the devil are wrong! (See Amos 3:3 KJV). Our Faith and Love will work with God (Galatians 5:6 KJV) but our fear and worry mean we are working with the devil our enemy. We need to remember and do what the Word of God says.

5 Fold Agenda of God and Satan- Part 1 
by Dr. Gerald Jeffers
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnzXJQGP210

There Is Revelation In Your Situation - Part 1 of 2
by Dr. Gerald Jeffers - Exodus 3:13-17 KJV
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2TsF_L4vZzk

Let God burn out the sins in our lives - Catch On Fire 
by Rev. Pastor Mark Morgan
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERgYlmKXVXg

The Word Of Faith 
by Marvin Bembry
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t29NYR9isNk

Ministry Seminar (with the 5 Fold Ministries)
by Dr Gerald Jeffers
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtUMcLFqk2w

END of Information

Biblical Expressions of Worship

Do you know some of the Biblical Expressions of Worship?
"Biblical Expressions of Worship"
We pray together aloud because in the Bible we read, "They lifted up their voice to God with one accord" (Acts 4:24).
We lift our hands in praise because in the Bible we read, "Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord" (Psalm 134:2).

We sing with all our hearts because in the Bible we read, "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth:  make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise" (Psalm 98:4).

We play musical instruments because in the Bible we read, "And all the house of Israel played before the LORD on all manner of instruments" (2 Samuel 6:5).

We clap and shout unto God because in the Bible we read, "O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph" (Psalm 47:1).

We dance before the LORD because in the Bible we read, "Praise Him with the timbrel and dance:  praise Him with stringed instruments and organs" (Psalm 150:4).

We testify publicly because in the Bible we read, "I will declare thy name unto my brethren; in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee" (Psalm 22:22).

We anoint with oil for divine healing because in the Bible we read, "Is any sick among you?  Let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord" (James 5:14).

We allow the operation of the spiritual gifts because in the Bible we read, "When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation" (1 Corinthians 14:26).
(Information from: UPCI Oneness Apostolic Organization)

The Prayer Process

Do you know what is the Prayer Process? If you are someone who believes in the Christian Bible and praying, then the following information will be of great help to you and others.

There is a process we can all follow when praying to achieve real results. The process include some Christian Bible Scriptures that are relevant to the pattern presented here. During your personal prayer session, if you spend five minutes, for example, praying with each point mentioned in this presentation in mind, then you will most likely have spent about 60-70 minutes in praying in during your prayer session.

Praise. In the Christian Bible, Psalms 34 verse 1, Psalm 63 verse 3 and Psalm 150 verse 6 in the Old Testament refer to this point. You will also see related information at Hebrews 13 verse 15 in the New Testament. Praise simple refers to starting your prayer session with praise to Jesus. 
 
Kingdom Praying. We can find a related scripture for this point at Matthew 6 verse 33 in the Bible. Basically, this means paying more attention to the priorities of the Church or Christian Ministry rather than on our own needs. By doing so, we can expect God to help us solve our human daily problems or needs because we have taken care of his Church needs first. 

Forgiveness and Confession of Sins. Read Matthew 6 verses 14-15 and Psalms 139 verses 23-24 for related scriptures on this point. Pastors and Church Leaders will often tell Christians that an unforgiving mind-set or spirit will most certainly hinder us from receiving answers to our own prayers. 

Petition. According to this point, some will say prayers of petition should always include willingness to accept God's will, even if he answers the prayer or not. Read Matthew 6 verses 9-13 and James 4 verses 2-3 for related scriptures. For my experience, the will of God must always prevail over all prayer requests base on human knowledge, current situation or experience.

Intercession. This is similar to Kingdom Praying mentioned above. Matthew 9 verses 37-38 and I Timothy 2 verses 1-2 have helpful scriptural information about this point. Intercession is simply about praying for the needs of others, for example, the poor, homeless, sick, unemployed and others. 
 
Bible Reading. For my experience, some have found this to be unusual or surprising during a prayer session. However, if we read 2 Timothy 3 verse 16 we will discover that this should not be so. If you are a regular bible reader, you will know or eventually discover, that God can and will speak to Believers through his divine word - the Christian Holy Bible.
 
Meditation. Many people I know like this very much. Some even prefer to do this than pray at all. Psalms 1 verses 1-2 and Psalms 77 verse 12 have more information on this. Meditation is just quiet focusing on and dwelling on the things in your life that are related to the bible and why we need to pray. From meditation, we can achieve greater insight, knowledge understanding of many issues that may be bothering us. 

Thanksgiving. We know that praise is important but so is thanksgiving. This is focusing on all things that we are thankful for in our lives and that of our families, neighbors and friends. This often include things that are not pleasant because the Bible says we are to give thanks for all things at all times. 

Praying the Word of God. I have always given special attention to doing this during my time to pray. Praying the word of God from the bible is very powerful praying because we are saying what God said or what was stated through his apostles, prophets and others from the Old and New Testaments. Read John 15 verse 7 for scriptural related information. By praying the word, we can repeat and claim God's divine promises to all humans and Christians for our situations in life. 

Singing. This is another unusual point during our prayer time. However, the famous scripture Psalm 100 verse 1 and Ephesians 5 verses 19 will help us understand why we do this. At our Church, we often sing at the start of our Services to invite the presence of God in our hearts and minds. Therefore, it helps to do likewise in our special private prayer session. 

Listening. We often focused on praying for what we want or desire, for others needs and and so. However, very few of us really listen to hear from God after we pray. This is not a simple matter. It will require a sincere heart and mind that is focused on really hearing from God and accepting what he will say to our minds or hearts from our praying. Read 1 Kings 19 verses 11-12 for information. 

Praise. As it was in the beginning, so it should be towards the end of our prayer session. Read Matthew 6 verse 13 for more information. After we have done all of the above, we again need to praise God for his presence and blessings in our lives. 

In ending, some may not follow the exact process above when praying. However, when we do it will produce better results. At no time can we pray without confessing our sins and with forgiveness in our hearts. We must learn to listen to God and accept his will in from our answered prayers.
AMEN.
( Inspired Information from the "Prayer Wheel" from UPCI )

Prayer Checkup

" A Prayer Checkup " by Liane R. Grant.
Preparing to write an article about praying according to God’s will caused me to examine some of my typical prayer requests. Do they really line up with what the Bible says about God’s will? A prayer checkup can be very enlightening… and convicting! Let’s look at a few Bible verses about God’s will and see how they apply to prayer.

“For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” (James 4:15)

There’s a phrase I used to hear all the time growing up that doesn’t seem very common anymore. “We’ll see you next month, Lord willing” or “I am starting a new job soon, Lord willing.” We tend to make our own plans as we see fit, forgetting to invite the Lord to direct our lives. We rush ahead to the next thing on our schedule, seeing how many things we can check off on our to-do list. How would our prayer life change if we put James 4:15 into practice at the beginning of each day?

“That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed.” (Romans 15:32)

If anyone ever had a right to get moody and tired of travelling, it would be the Apostle Paul, but he chose to do God’s will with joy, and so can we. It’s easy to let annoyances, frustrations, and discomforts consume our prayer time. But if we truly believe that circumstances beyond our control have passed through God’s approval process, then we are in the middle of His will. Let’s pray that God will help us to respond with joy and let our faith and faithfulness be a living testimony that refreshes those around us.

. .

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2)

“That’s just my personality.” “You know redheads have a temper.” “I’ve never been able to tolerate . . .” and so on. Hmmm . . . are these just excuses for bad habits we have developed? The scripture above emphasizes our need to change so that we can live out the will of God. His will is that we demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.

Regardless of our personality, our childhood or experiences, we should pray daily that God will shape and change us according to His will. And His will is good, it’s acceptable, and it’s perfect!

“Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” (I Peter 4:19)

This one is difficult. We love to talk about God’s will when it pertains to comfortable, fulfilling, and exciting things; but sometimes His will is for us to suffer. We can’t choose when and where to do God’s will; it is a total commitment. So how do we suffer “according to the will of God”? This can only happen in prayer, by throwing ourselves into His arms, in total trust that He really does know what is best for us. He is our Creator and He WILL be faithful to us. Remember that God has His eye on the end result. When all is said and done, what really matters is that our souls are saved. Let’s pray sincerely and let Him choose what suffering is needed to accomplish our salvation.

 
These are just a few scriptures that can guide us as we pray according to God’s will.
We need to remember that our Heavenly Father is in control and that He loves us more than we could ever comprehend!

Info from: Ladies Prayer Int Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesprayerinternational-aol.com@shared1.ccsend.com

According to His Will

" Pray, According to His Will " by Mary Catherine Beek.
 The word control means, “To determine the behavior or supervise the running of.”

When we say we have control over something, it can make us feel quite powerful. Sometimes it can be hard for us to either hand that control over or, even worse, have it taken away from us. This is how our humanity can feel. Handing control over to someone can be difficult, and there can even be resistance.

When it comes to handing over control, or our will, over to God, we may resist. We may feel that we know better than God. We can start to problem-solve, plan, and organize our lives and situations around our own strength and wisdom. 

I have experienced in my own life that when I begin to pray, “Not my will, but Yours be done,” a burden lifts off me. I have come to the realization that God’s ways ARE higher than my ways and His thoughts ARE NOT my thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). We must understand, and accept, that our will and tight control over our lives is nothing in comparison to the great things God has in store for us. 

A life verse of mine is Proverbs 3:5-6.

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Our paths, will, control—whatever we want to label it— will only lead to problems. We must trust in God with all our emotions (heart) and lean not to what makes sense to our own minds (understanding). Then, when we acknowledge God in all our ways and release that control over to Him, His promise to us is that He will direct our paths. This is how we can pray the will of God into our lives. We need to release the tight grip we have over our lives, making sure everything is just right and acceptable for everyone to see. 

When we truly live a life that is in His will, the stress, anxiety, and frustrations of life will start to fade. We will then live our lives knowing, trusting, and believing that His will is what’s best for us. 



“Therefore, take no thought, saying, what shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:31-33)

Info from: Ladies Prayer Int Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesprayerinternational-aol.com@shared1.ccsend.com 
 

He did in fact recover

All For One…

“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ” (Ephesians 4:15...).

Many years ago, in the late 1980s at our General Conference, I heard a message that greatly affected me. I do not recall the name of the minister speaking that night, but I profoundly remember the message he preached. He was recalling a story he had read in a magazine.

The story went something like this: A man was in a terrible car accident and was paralyzed from the neck down. He was unable to speak or move, but he had all of his mental faculties. His wife would come faithfully every day and visit with him, talk, and comfort him.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. She came in one day to explain that she was divorcing him and marrying another man. He said that in his mind he was screaming “NO, NO, NO! Im going to get better, Im going to walk again!” He wanted to scream out of frustration because she could not hear his desperate cries nor respond to him.

He did in fact recover, but he never forgot the horrible vexation of being fully aware of everything around him but unable to move or express himself.

CONTINUES at: https://files.constantcontact.com/aebf4de5001/a2e5f7da-d66b-480c-9c0d-4bed8ef096a5.pdf

From the beginning of the Spirit-filled

Gathering the Generations to Pray.

From the beginning of the Spirit-filled New Testament church, cross-generational
involvement was clearly pronounced.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the brothers of Jesus gathered in the upper
room. According to Mark 6:3, Jesus had four brothers, James, Josses, Juda, and
Simon. He also had some sisters (at least two or more) who were numbered with the women gathered there.

Among His earthly family, Jesus was the oldest of Marys children. His crucifixion occurred when He was in His early thirties; so we can assume that His brothers and sisters probably ranged in ages, from their late teens into their thirties. From its beginning, young people have been at the center of the book of Acts church.

The first activity of young people in the New Testament church was prayer. These all continued with one accord in prayer. We thank God for our talented, educated, hardworking, enthusiastic young people. Their musical ability is a big plus for reaching this generation. Their contagious enthusiasm, confidence, and commitment serves the church well. However, with the Apostle Paul, we must place prayer in its proper place of priority. ... first of all ... prayer ... (I Timothy 2:1).

Post CONTINUES at: https://files.constantcontact.com/aebf4de5001/87e49b50-e1ee-47c6-a269-019828eae6e8.pdf
Info from: World Network of Prayer Newsletter
 

There was a prophecy that went forth

The Ingathering.

There was a prophecy that went forth in Zechariah saying, “Thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘In those days ten men [as representatives] from all the nations will grasp the robe of a Jew, saying, “Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you” (Zechariah 8:23 AMP). It has been said that this prophecy is referring to the ten lost tribes that will return to Jerusalem.

We cannot be sure who they are, but we can be sure that the Word of God will come to pass.

He has promised His people, both Jews and Gentiles, that the latter house would be greater than the former house, and that the gospel would be preached to all nations through the lineage of Abraham, who was promised that through him, all nations would be blessed. God does not forget His promises. He has not broken His covenant with Israel. One day He will return as promised to Jerusalem. In that day, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that He is Lord. “So many peoples and powerful nations will come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem and to ask the Lord for His favor” (Zechariah 8:22).

There will be an ingathering of the multitudes, but in this present time our concern is the multitudes in the valley of decision. It is for these multitudes of souls that we must fast, pray, and sacrifice for. It is the will of God that every nation hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. Without the people of God there can be no finished work. The enemy is taking advantage of the crises going on in the world. He is working through division, witchcraft, and sorceries. There are many forms of witchcraft that are at work. Rebellion, manipulation, drugs, and even the abuse of pharmaceuticals. 

Post CONTINUES at: https://files.constantcontact.com/aebf4de5001/7e38c251-0698-4525-976b-22906bbd0e23.pdf
Info from: World Network of Prayer Newsletter

Hearing God Voice

Prayer for Hearing Gods Voice

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27).

We should remember that prayer is a dialog between the believer and God. It’s a two-way communication that involves both talking and listening. Prayer is not complete when we do all the talking and expect God to do all the listening. True prayer requires both. Let’s pray to hear God’s voice. Hearing God also represents a readiness to obey what He says. God does not speak just to give people a chance to decide if they want to obey. God speaks to those who take Him seriously and who stand ready to respond to whatever He says. Let’s learn to listen to the Shepherd’s voice.

Pray the following:

    Lord, I praise You as my Shepherd for You are the one who speaks so that I may hear Your voice and follow You were you lead.
    Lord, I Thank You, Oh God, for telling us the truth about Yourself, and about ourselves. 
    Lord, I confess any lack of desire or any personal failure in hearing Your voice. Help me to have ears to hear what Your Spirit is speaking today.
    Lord, give me listening ears to hear and discern Your voice from the many voices that are speaking.
    Lord, open my heart to Your impressions and please help me close my ears to the whisperings of the evil one.
    Lord, today I stand as an intercessor for those who are not listening to Your Word or Your Spirit and are straying from truth.
 

Rev. Stephen M. Harris, Christian Life Church, Port Washington, Wisconsin
Information from: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com 

The Voice

The Voice of the Lord by Pastor Don Rogers .

“The voice of the Lord echoes through the skies and seas. The Glory-God reigns as he thunders in the clouds. So powerful is his voice, so brilliant and bright—how majestic as he thunders over the great waters. His tympanic thunder topples the strongest of trees. His symphonic sound splinters the mighty forests. Now he moves Zion’s mountains by the might of his voice, shaking the snowy peaks with his earsplitting sound! The lightning-fire flashes, striking as he speaks. God reveals himself when he makes the fault lines quake, shaking deserts, speaking his voice. God’s mighty voice makes the deer to give birth. His thunderbolt-voice lays the forest bare. In his temple all fall before him with each one shouting, Glory, glory, the God of glory!” (Psalms 29:3-9 TPT).

We live in a time with many voices competing for our attention, but the voice of the Lord prevails over every other voice when we choose to intimately respond to Him, through love and faith, in His love.

The voice of the Lord may produce four major kinds of responses:

Stubborn response – Like Cain (sometimes we like what we are doing and we resist God and wrestle to obey His voice) Hiding response – Adam hid when he heard God’s voice (fear and shame can cause us to hide from God’s voice). His voice becomes a terror to us.

Resentful response – One may ask, “why won’t God let me do what I want? I just want to be happy. I should be free to do what I want.” These are people who have a shallow reverence for God’s Word, especially if they feel His will opposes their desires.

Welcoming response – One would have the words of eternal life and would be delighted to hear His voice. These are people who see God’s Word like a honeycomb. They place their carnal appetites under the subjection to the voice of God’s Word and His Spirit.

Do you have a welcoming spirit and attitude towards the voice of the Lord? Is the voice of the Lord stronger than the voice of your carnal appetite? Is the voice of the Lord stronger than the ambitions of your personal aspirations? Is the voice of the Lord stronger than the offenses that occur relationally in your life?

Can you discern God’s rehma (utterance) voice during this endtime? Are you driven by fear and the affirmation of humanity or by the voice and the affirmation of God? His voice brings finality and authority to the inner man. It produces strength and peace in the midst of chaos. It is the highest voice among all other raging voices. We find God’s voice by spending quality time with Him and listening attentively for it. His voice helps to discern the times that we live in and to guide us in all things!

Pastor Don Rogers, The Pentecostals of Wisconsin, WNOP North Central Regional Prayer Coordinator

Information from: Prayer Connect - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com