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)

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 
 

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

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

Do you know and more Posts

Do you know about how to start a Prayer Ministry?

HOW TO START A PRAYER MINISTRY.

Pray. The proper place to began anything in the church is in prayer, and prayer ministries are no exception.

▪ Have the pastor’s support. No ministry within a congregation is likely to survive without the genuine endorsement of the pastor.

▪ Appeal to the influencers. There are always members of the laity whose opinions carry more weight than most. The greater the number from this group that will support the prayer ministry, the quicker the prayer environment will be changed.

▪ Get a covering. For all the reasons to start a prayer ministry, know up front that Satan will oppose you. You can rest assured that if you are making progress, he will increase his attempts to distract you. It is crucial that you pray for protection, pray for your family, those close to you and the others who are involved in building the prayer ministry. Prayer will cause Satan concern, and prayer is our best defense.

▪ Be careful not to organize God out of your ministry. Leave room for God’s hand in all that you do, but don’t sit around doing nothing.

▪ Teach Prayer. Take any opportunity to teach on prayer. This may include a special Sunday school class, using the first five to ten minutes of your prayer meeting, vacation Bible school and any other opportunity that arises to further the cause of prayer. Your job as a leader is to grow your people in prayer.

▪ Don’t start too many things at once. People will be overwhelmed by too many changes and it will stress your resources as well. It is much better to begin one or two new things at a time, and allow them to become established before adding another activity.

CONTINUES at: https://files.constantcontact.com/aebf4de5001/407be4c0-5dff-4f14-a0df-7ffe66457f30.pdf

Information from: The Prayer Life Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - wnopadmins@upci.org

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Do you know how to receive the Holy Ghost?

What the UPCI Pastor Billy Cole said.

How To Receive The Holy Ghost by Billy Cole BOTT 1991 - Acts 2:1-4, Acts 2:38 and Acts 10: 44-48 KJV YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qnGLCBvRqvc

NOTE: Please do not blame your Pastor or Preacher when someone does not receive the Holy Ghost. There are many different reasons as to why someone my not receive Him. But FAITH is the most critical element - faith on the part of the person seeking the Holy Ghost and from the Saints praying for and with them to receive the Holy Ghost.

AND

Do you know what the Bible says about Jesus and how to be saved?

The Bible says Jesus is God in the flesh. Read 1 Timothy 3 verse 16 KJV that says: ...great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. In Luke 7 verses 48-49 (KJV) we read And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also?

So we know only God can forgive our sins and Jesus forgave the sins of those he met while he was on Earth because he is God seen in human flesh. God is One God (not 3 persons in one) from the Old Testament to the New Testament. The Bible says in the Book of Isaiah 43 verse 10 (KJV) Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.

How to be saved from sins and received Eternal Life was taught, preached and practiced by the Apostles at Acts 2 verse 38 when Peter said: ...Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. So Peter knew what Jesus meant when Jesus spoke the words at Matthew 28 verse 19 and commanded the Apostles. The name from in the name of is Jesus Christ. And no where in the Bible was anyone baptized according to Matthew 28 verse 19 as mentioned. Why? Because Peter knew the correct understanding of that is Acts 2 verse 38 and many people in the Bible were baptized that way.

Read also Acts 2 verse 36, Acts 8 verse 16, Acts 10 verse 48 and Acts 19 verse 5 in the Bible. And there is no infant baptism recorded or taught in the New Testament. Jesus and the Bible also said we must be born of water and the Spirit to receive Salvation and Eternal Life from John 3 verse 5 in the Bible. So were are to seek and receive the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit) to be chosen Saints of God Almighty. Read Romans 8 verse 9 in the Bible.

The Anointed and more Posts

The Anointed Altar

Enhancing the Believers Walk with God!

In Exodus 40:10, 29:36-37, and Numbers 7:88, we find references to the “anointed altar,” a sacred place where believers can encounter Gods presence. This anointed altar in a believers life can add significant value to their walk with God, leading to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with Him.

The anointed altar signifies a consecrated space dedicated to seeking God, offering prayers, sacrifices, and worship. In biblical times, altars played a significant role in the religious practices of Israel. These were places where individuals and the community could approach God, seeking forgiveness, atonement, and communion. The anointed altar was set apart from ordinary objects or spaces and was specifically designated for worship and connection with the divine.

The anointed altar holds symbolic meaning as a place of surrender, intimacy, and divine encounters. Firstly, it represents surrender as individuals brought their sacrifices to the altar, symbolizing their willingness to submit to Gods will and surrender their desires and sins. It signified the acknowledgment that everything belongs to God and that humans come before Him humbly.

Secondly, the anointed altar represents intimacy with God. It was a physical space where people could approach God, seek His guidance, and experience His presence. The act of offering sacrifices, or prayers, at the altar symbolized the desire for a deeper connection and relationship with the divine.

Lastly, the anointed altar signifies divine encounters. Throughout the Bible, various scenes depict the altar as a place where God met with His people. Examples can be seen in Genesis when Abraham built an altar to worship God, or when Moses met with God at the burning bush. The anointed altar was seen as a gateway to experiencing Gods presence and receiving His revelations.

In summary, the anointed altar signifies a consecrated space dedicated to seeking God, offering prayers, sacrifices, and worship. It holds symbolic meaning as a place of surrender, intimacy, and divine encounters; representing humanitys willingness to submit to God, seek a deeper relationship, and experience His presence. Enhance your walk with God by spiritually endeavoring to experience the anointed altar!

Dr. Margaret Banks-Butler

WNOP International Harvest Prayer Coordinator

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

AND

The principle of sowing and reaping

SEEDS TO TREES

Scripture teaches us about the principle of sowing and reaping. From seed, comes plant, a tree, or a field big enough to harvest. What you sow grows. The seed of a tree becomes buried where you cannot see it. Little by little, it is nourished in the ground and sprouts into view, growing into a large tree with deep root systems and wide-reaching branches.

The principle of sowing and reaping doesnt change. If a seed can live, it will grow. In scripture, seeds were often an analogy for the Word of God. As we read His Word it grows in our life bringing forth faith and works of His Spirit. But a seed can also represent things like bitterness, unforgiveness, anger, and vengeance. These are all big issues in someones life, but they all started as a seed.

Its not easy to cut down a tree when its grown. Instead, if we get rid of the seed when its small then we dont have to wrestle with it when it becomes a forest. Its your choice to leave a seed buried.

Pray:

that God would reveal to you any seeds in your life that lay buried and need to be removed. These may be things like bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, revenge, hate, envy, gossip, jealousy, discontent, or doubt.
for forgiveness, for allowing any seed to grow, contrary to His Word.
that God would help you to remove those that have grown up into large obstacles to your faith, and your walk with God and others.
that God would help you find someone to be accountable to during your recovery.
that God would make you aware when you are burying a seed in the future.
that you would replace every sinful seed with a seed from His Word.

See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled (Hebrews 12:15).

Colleen Clabaugh - Guest Writer

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

AND

Its About Time

Time is precious. Let’s pray that God will bless the time He gives us in our day.

“Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you” (Hosea 10:12). Lord, forgive us today and cleanse our hearts from indulging in ease and pleasure for it is time to seek You. Let all corrupt affections and lusts depart from us and let us have a broken and contrite spirit which breaks the fallow ground of complacency. Lord, help us to abound in works that are right towards You and others. For we will seek You this day, and we will sow in righteousness and reap Your mercy. 

“My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me” (Psalm 31:15). Lord, I dedicate my day and time to You for it is in Your hands. Lead and guide me into Your divine will and purpose today. Help me to avoid the enemies of my time. Give me wisdom Lord, to steer clear of fruitless activities, time robbers or issues that don’t concern me. Deliver me from those who wish to cause me harm or hinder my progress and cause me to waste time. 

“Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time” (Colossians 4:5). Lord, I pray that I may walk in wisdom toward those who have no wisdom. Help me to not get caught up in fruitless situations but help me to make the most of the opportunities that You give me today for Your Kingdom’s sake. 

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way” (Psalm 37:23). Let my steps be directed by You, Lord. Let them be firmly established in walking in Your will today. Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me (Psalm 119:133). I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law [is] within my heart” (Psalm 40:8). 

“What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee” (Psalm 56:3). Lord, we praise You for that when we are afraid we can trust You and through Your Word, to speak to our hearts. 

“So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12). Help me, Oh Lord, to remember that time is short and the day is burning, so that my work must count for You. Help me to use wisdom in my endeavors and not to waste time on things that don’t really matter. 

“It is time for you, LORD, to work: for they have made void your law” (Psalm 119:126). Lord, I know that the timing is right for You to work in my life and the lives of my loved ones. Lord, continue to do this work that they might see it’s You who are doing these things. 

“For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; The daughter of Babylon is like a threshing floor, it is time to thresh her: yet a little while, and the time of her harvest shall come” (Jeremiah 51:33). Lord, do what You see fit to bring about a mighty revival in my home, church, family and in my community. We thank You for the mighty deeds You’ve already done and what You’re going to do though me today. In Jesus name, Amen. 

Juli Jasinski District Prayer Coordinator Massachusetts/Rhode Island District

FROM: Prayer Connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com

AND

God has given us a space of time.

A Space of Time

Time cannot be purchased, and once gone, it is gone forever. In His grace God has given us a space of time for repentance, restitution, and restoration. We can see how merciful God has been and have faith that He still has a plan. In fact, it seems our world has become increasingly more wicked and the shedding of innocent blood continues at a horrific rate across our world.

There seems to be no fear of God, in spite of the obvious signs of the times that we are living in. I typically don’t write in the first person, but this is what God has put on my heart, so I will share these things that have inspired me to pray. Around the time of the 9/11 attack, I had a dream. I was walking barefoot on a train track. I remember looking down at the railroad ties, my feet didn’t hurt, but I was carrying some type of package that was heavy. The countryside was beautiful. It appeared to be farmland, and the horizon was speckled with cattle that could be seen far across the horizon. Suddenly, I saw a flash of light so bright that it turned everything white as snow. I heard a voice say, “My coming is soon.”

Having been fairly new to Church and prayer at that time, God speaking was foreign to me. After that dream, I was never the same. Around that same time, I attended a district ladies retreat. Bobbie Wendell was one of the speakers and I remember being deeply moved by her message, but what was ingrained in my memory is what I saw during the call to prayer afterwards. In prayer, I saw a huge black wave that seemed to come from a troubled sea. In the wave, there was a multitude of tormented faces; more than could be counted. I have also been haunted by another dream. In this dream, a man was calling to me from some far-away place, saying, “I don’t want to go to hell”. These visions have left me wondering, am I doing enough?

I am troubled by the thought of not seeking the Lord while He may be found; of getting caught up in the cares of this world, and the distractions that the enemy is clearly putting in the way of God’s people. Many are petty offenses that cause us to stumble. It is time to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God. It is time to know, and live by His word. It is time to seek God daily in prayer, and time to wisely use the talent(s) God has given us. Let’s not be like the foolish servant, who lost everything.

It is high time to consider how much time is wasted, and how little time we may have. Do we have days, years, months, or decades? According to scripture, nobody knows, but we do have the signs of the times and the admonition to pay attention to them from Jesus Himself. This does not only apply to the second coming of Jesus, but the life we are living. The Bible teaches that life is a vapor. It is fragile, uncertain, and precious. Life must be regarded as precious to God’s people, even if it is devalued in the world we live in. This will be demonstrated by how we are using the space of time God has given us. How much are we taking for granted? Do we disregard the fact that eternity knocks at the door? Do we count precious the time we have to spend with loved ones, or time spent doing eternal things for God. Time spent in prayer and time devoted to His Kingdom are things that last. Sincere, heartfelt, fervent, effectual prayer is valuable to God and stored in heaven (see Revelation 5:8). How much time are we actually spending in prayer. Are we consistently seeking God’s Kingdom and His righteousness? Are we doing the things that prayer would lead us to do? Are we acting as a catalyst for what God would do as a result of prayer? Jesus said, “We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work” (John 9:4 AMP).

Beth Marie Evans WNOP Prayer Requests Coordinator International Christian Fellowship Brookfield, Illinois

Info from: Prayer connect Newsletter - World Network of Prayer - floshaw@wnop-upci.ccsend.com

AND

 
Start with Prayer.

Start Your Day With Prayer by Dee Rogers.

“My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up.” (Psalm 5:3 NKJV)

For many years I struggled with prayer. But God in His grace and mercy allowed me to find living for God was not hard. Just take the Bible for what it says, and live by it.

I found that I can talk to God just like I would talk to a friend or my family. The Bible says Abraham was “called the friend of God,” and the Lord spoke to Moses “as a man speaks to his friend.” The Book of Romans tells us we are adopted, and we become children of God. And that we can cry to him “Abba, Father.”

However, after having children, it seemed like I never had enough time to pray. Certainly not for longer periods of time. I began to feel guilty for not praying as much as I had been before marriage and children.

Finding time to pray seemed impossible some days. I heard “get up earlier,” but I found that hard to do. I finally realized that I was leaving prayer out of some days.

So I talked to God about it all. (Like He didn’t already know, but He is not going to fix everything for you, unless you ask Him! He wants to hear from us!) I became totally transparent with Him at that point. And He answered me – “Pray when you can, make time to talk to Me, and I will be there.” I began praying while still laying quietly in bed each day, to not wake anyone up. I was just making time for Him as it was available. I still love those quiet whispers of prayer in my morning and listening to Him.

Start your day talking to Him. Invite Him into your day and He will be with you in every hour of that day. Prayer becomes a conversation that continues throughout the day. We live in a very mobile society. Our days are busy, but, if we want Him to go with us, we need to talk to Him. He is a God who is available - He is everywhere. Talk to Him about everything in your life. Driving down the highway – your car becomes your prayer room. The more you communicate with Him the easier it becomes. He listens and speaks to you. Don’t’ forget to thank Him for the moments shared and life changes that follow.

“The Lord is good to those who… seek Him.” (Lamentations 3:25)

Info from: Ladies Prayer International Newsletter - UPCI Ladies Ministries - ladiesprayerinternational@aol.com