Weekly Prayer by Rev. Loree Pardi

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For the Week of March 3, 2013

At This Moment
Sometimes we feel like we don’t measure up. We make mistakes, some big, some small and can’t seem to forgive ourselves or others. Instead, we choose to alienate ourselves and go to this dark place of disappointment and misery in our mind, which can easily lead to a separation from God and those we love. Paul encouraged the church not to act like people who don’t know God, that live their life disappointed, miserable and ignorant, which can result in mistaken conduct. He writes, don’t be separated from God because of the hardness that’s in our heart. But give thanks to God, who has already delivered us from the power of sin and moved us into the kingdom of His dear Son; in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-18 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth (no longer) walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity (empty, disappointing misery) of their mind, :18 Having the understanding darkened (difficult to understand), being alienated (cut off) from the life of God through the ignorance (not knowing, which leads to mistaken conduct) that is in them, because of the blindness (hardness) of their heart. Ephesians 2:13 But, now (at this moment) in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes (once) were far off are made nigh (as close as you can get) by the blood of Christ.
Prayer: Father God, Creator of heaven and earth, how is it that You would even consider someone like me? You loved me so much that You gave Your only son so I could live. Father, I pray You will help me understand the magnitude of the gift You gave so freely and how to allow Christ to live in me and through me, so that I might be a witness of Your love to others. Father, I thank You for Your Word and as I grow, I pray for the understanding of it and the wisdom to apply it effectively into my life daily. Thank You for loving me unconditionally, forgiving my sins and for Your many blessings, both now and evermore. I love You Father, I pray all this in Jesus’ loving name and give You thanks. Amen

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For the Week of February 17, 2013

In Jesus’ Name
There isn’t anything wrong with having worldly goods, but when we understand that we came into this world with nothing and we can’t take anything with us when we leave, it gives us a better perspective about the things that matter most. It’s not about how much money we have or don’t have, it’s not about how many possessions we have, it’s about no matter what life brings our way we can do anything, through Christ who gives us the ability. Paul said, I have learned that no matter if I’m full or hungry, rich or poor, whether we’re going through good times or bad, it doesn’t matter because we have access, with confidence, through the faith of Him (Jesus), to all that God has ever promised. Peter made the contrast between the fact that he didn’t have riches that one uses to buy things, but what he did have was far greater than anything money could ever buy.
Scripture: Acts 3:6-7 Then Peter said, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” :7 And he took him (the lame man) by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. Philippians 4:11-13 Not that I speak in respect of want (need or lack): for I have learned (understand), in whatsoever state I am; therewith to be content. :12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. :13 I can do (I am able to do) all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word which truly is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Thank You Father for showing me where I’m at and where I need to be, and for giving me strength through the wonderful name of Jesus Christ. Father thank You for teaching me that no matter what’s going on, I can be content knowing that, in the name of Jesus, I can do all things. Father, I love You, praise You and thank You for all these things and it’s in Jesus’ powerful and mighty name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of February 3, 2013

God Has A Plan
When we think life has dealt us a bad hand, God can turn it around. If life seems uncertain and is not going the way we planned, God has a better plan in store. God can take what seems impossible and make it possible. God can change disfunctional to functional, He is able to bring hope to a hopeless situation and just when we think we’re down in a hole, God will make a way out of it. Joseph had no idea that when his own brothers sought to kill him and throw him down in a pit, God had a plan. So when things aren’t going quite the way we think they should, for whatever reason, in our heart we need to remember, God has a bigger plan for us. Because what our enemy meant for evil against us, even this, God can turn around for good. Let us not be troubled in our heart and mind, but rather trust God knowing that He has a plan. The key to the journey of life is to simply trust God.

Scripture: Genesis 50:19-20 But Joseph told them (his brothers), “don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, to judge and punish you? :20 As far as I am concerned, God turned into good what you meant for evil, for He brought me to this high position I have today so that I could save the lives of many people. (TLB) Psalms 37:5 Commit thy way (journey) unto the Lord; Trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. (KJV)
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, there is none like You, You are an awesome God, unto Thee I give all praise. Father, sometimes I find myself questioning the things You do and I don’t always understand Your plan. Forgive me Father, I pray, for doubting You, and help me to commit myself more than ever before to You and Your plan for my life. And Father, just like Joseph I will trust You knowing that whatever negative others have done to me You can turn it around to a positive result. So Father, thank You that You always have a plan and I will not fear what man shall do unto me but, I will trust and thank You for bringing to pass an outcome that will bring glory to You. I love You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

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For the Week of November 25, 2012

It’s True
It’s true what they say . . . ‘what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger’. When we are surrounded by the trials of life, the Bible says to look beyond the difficulty, knowing that the testing of our faith makes us stronger. So that no matter what comes into our life, we’ll be mature enough to handle it, because each test we get through, causes us to grow a little more. We are too quick to give up our faith. It says in the book of James chapter one, that we need to persevere so we can grow to maturity. As we get through each trial, hopefully we will get to the place where we become skilled in the affairs of life, using practical wisdom, wise management, making the best plans, using good sense, that we may become complete in every way, lacking nothing. So we can either, give up during the test, make the same mistakes again and again, or grow through life’s challenges, in order to reach our full potential.
Scripture: James 1:2-4 My brethren, count (look beyond the difficulty) it all joy when ye fall into divers (different) temptations (trials, challenges); :3 Knowing this, that the trying (testing) of your faith worketh (causes) patience (endurance, perseverance, to be strong). :4 But let patience have her perfect work (let your patience grow, don’t try to get out of your problems) that ye may be perfect (mature) and entire (strong in character, complete in every way) wanting nothing (ready for anything).
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, I stand in awe of Your perfect love and Your mighty power, of how You do the things that only You can do. Father, I pray for Your direction in my life, for helping me through the trials, so that I can truly grow up into You in all things. For Father God, You know exactly what I need.  I ask that You make a way where there seems to be no way. I thank You for opening the right doors and giving me the opportunity to really learn how to be sufficient in all things. Thank You for being my heavenly Father, I love You with all my heart. In Jesus’ powerful and loving name I pray and give thanks. Amen

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For the Week of November 18, 2012

Breath Of Life
God has formed, made and created us just the way we are, for His pleasure and we are a complete finished product that is unique to anyone else in this world (there’s no one else like you). A masterpiece brought into existence by God Himself designed to express beauty, balance and completeness, for the purpose of executing one plan prepared by God after another, from one good work to the next. But, sometimes others see those wonderful qualities God has placed in us as character flaws and try to change us from who we are to something completely different. We have to remember that God has made each of us the way we are for a reason and we can’t allow anything or anyone to come along and try to change what God has created. Because, there are people you can reach that I can’t, there are things I do a certain way, that you would do different, so we must learn to respect each others individuality and understand that we are made just the way we’re supposed to be.
Scriptures: Genesis 2:7 And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (that which makes you, you); and man became a living soul. Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship (finished product), created (to bring into existence something that has never existed before, God’s greatest work) in Christ Jesus unto (one upon another) good works (God’s plan), which God hath before ordained (prepared) that (in order that) we should walk in them.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, there aren’t words to describe how truly amazing You are. You have created me from the foundations of the world for a specific purpose and I pray for the strength to do only those things that will bring glory to Your name. I pray You will lead me and guide me by Your Spirit to be all You have called me to be, so I can be a light in the midst of the darkness, that I might be Your messenger of hope to a lost and dying generation. Father, for all this I give You thanks in advance. I love You, in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

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For the Week of October 28, 2012

You Raise Me Up
Along with our salvation (Romans 10:9) comes many benefits. One of which is God’s exceeding, great and precious promises, by which He has called us to rise up to the standard of His Word (II Peter 1:3-4). But, if we’re constantly held back by the people and things that drag us down, it’s almost certain we will not be able to reach the level of excellence God has called us to. The Bible specifically warns us about being unequally yoked, which basically refers to an old practice of putting a yoke on two animals. A farmer would never yoke an ox with an ass to pull a wagon, because they are two different animals and together could not pull the wagon smoothly. Likewise, it’s difficult for believers and unbelievers to work together in harmony, because they are so different. The apostle Paul asked the church at Corinth, what partnership does Christ have with the devil, light with darkness or a believer with an unbeliever? Sometimes we need to draw the line between us and the things that drag us down, because we all have a specific path to take and when we get off that path we’re going in the wrong direction and could end up in a collision.
Scripture: II Corinthians 6:14-15 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? :15 And what concord (agreement) hath Christ with Belial (the devil)? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel (an unbeliever)?
I Corinthians 15:33 Be not deceived (led astray): evil (bad in nature) communications (associations) corrupt (waste) good manners (good ethics, standards and moral habits).
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word, the instructions in righteousness, everything I need to be successful on this journey You have given me to take. I pray that you will give me the strength to say no to the distractions that are designed to get me off track, so that I can accomplish Your will. For all this I thank You. I love You and praise You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

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For the week of October 21, 2012

Hidden Treasure
One of the wisest men that ever lived was King Solomon and he said in Proverbs 4:5a “Get wisdom, get understanding:” Wisdom is knowledge in operation, it’s the result of what God’s knowledge can produce when it is used.  It’s applied knowledge, because without application there are no results. In chapter 1:7 Solomon says, “The fear (reverence) of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” In verses 20-32 of chapter one he writes about how wisdom cries out saying, how long will you foolish one’s love foolishness, hate knowledge and turn your back on correction? When we finally get a hold of the fact that we need to pay close attention to what God is saying to us in His Word, the sooner we’ll be able to truly experience the life that God intended us to live. Sometimes we have to look beyond our circumstances in order to see the things we need to learn from God.
Scripture: Proverbs 2:1-6 My son, if thou wilt receive (listen to) my words, And hide (more than listening, hide as a treasure) my commandments with thee; :2 So that thou incline thine ear to wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding (putting it together mentally); :3 Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; :4 If thou seekest (seek in order to find) her as silver, And searchest for her as for hid treasures; :5 Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, And find (things that are hidden) the knowledge of God. :6 For the Lord giveth wisdom: Out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.
Prayer: Father God, I will get it together mentally so that I can do the things that are right and just, I will pay close attention to Your instructions and keep them in my heart always. Father, I will not rely on my own understanding, but will depend on You, knowing that You will help me straighten everything out. I will not be distracted by the temptations of this world, my focus will be only on You. Father, I love and thank You. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the week of October 14, 2012

Back To The Future
We canshape our tomorrows by the things we do today.  We can impact our own life as well as the lives of others by doing the things we would like done to us.  We can take the first step in making a difference in our life by making a difference in someone else’s, by literally doing unto others as you would have done to you (Luke 6:31). So if we want to be treated with respect, then we should treat others with respect, if we have a need, then we should be praying for someone who has the same need, if we want people to be friendly to us, then we should be friendly also, etc. It’s in the giving that we receive, it’s in loving others that we are loved and whatever good we do to others, we will receive the same from the Lord. We need to be mindful of what we’re dishing out, because we will receive back the very same thing.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free. James 5:16a Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your great love where with You loved us, forgive me for being so pig headed and stubborn, for not seeing the error of my ways and help me I pray to change my heart so that I can begin to love again and be whole in every way possible. Thank You Father for showing me that I truly can start to change my future by doing what is right today. I pray for the strength to forgive myself and others for the things we’ve done so I can move forward with my life. I thank You Father for a new day with a fresh start, I praise You for the change that has taken place in my heart today and I look forward to all You have in store for my future. I give You all praise, honor and glory, thank You Father for all You have done and all You will do. I love You. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of October 7, 2012

Shining Example
We are the salt of the earth, but if we lose our saltiness, we have lost our purpose for which we exist. We are the light that shines in the darkness, but if our light is covered up and not shining brightly, then how will someone else be able to see the message of hope that lives in us? If we’re not living examples of all that it means to be a Christian (Christ like), then how can others come to the knowledge of the truth? It’s up to us to keep our candle burning bright so everyone can see our good works and glorify God. There’s always going to be something or someone that will try to blow out our flame. So, we must not grow weary in doing good, because in God’s time we will reap, if we don’t give up.
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16 Ye (you) are the salt (capable of producing results) of the earth: but if the salt have lost (loose it’s purpose for which it exists) his savour (ability, strength), wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. :14 Ye (you) are the light (God’s light) of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. :15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. :16 Let your light (the message) so shine (be visible) before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father Which is in heaven. Prayer: Father God, You are my love and my life and I know that the universe is held together by Your Mighty Hand, but yet You have taken the time to know my every need. You are so gracious to me, I don’t deserve Your love, but You gave it anyway and I will forever praise Your Holy Name. Thank You for Your many blessings, for answered prayer and teaching me how to be more like You. In Jesus’ powerful name I pray. Amen

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For the week of September 9, 2012

Practice Makes Perfect
One of the wisest men that ever lived was Solomon. He wrote the book of Proverbs and in chapter 1:5 he said, “A wise man will hear, and will increase learning.” We need to follow his lead and listen with the intent to perform God’s promises, learn more and more, use them daily and let them lead us in the right direction. It’s wonderful to know the Bible and be able to quote the verses word for word, but it’s another thing to believe it enough to make it part of who we are. We have to get the words off the pages of the Bible, begin to put them in our hearts and then into action everyday. We know that faith without works is dead, so we must bring our faith to life by our actions. We need to practice our believing, which means to; perform repeatedly in order to acquire skill, to become an expert, proficient through practice or experience, to be perfected through practice until it becomes a way of life.
Scripture: James 2:14-17 What doth it profit (what good is it), my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?  :15 If a brother or sister be naked, and des- titute (lacking) of daily food, :16 And one of you say unto them, “Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled;” notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit (increase)? :17 Even so (and so) faith (believing), if it hath not works (action), is dead (barren and will not produce any results), being alone.
Prayer: Father, I pray for wisdom and knowledge to understand the principals in Your Word, that I might become skillful as I practice Your promises everyday. Thy Word truly is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path and I thank You for helping me to see the importance of it in my life. Father God, I pray for the strength to do Your will no matter what comes my way and I will forever praise Your holy Name. I love You Father, and thank You for all these things. In Jesus’ precious name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of September 2, 2012

Keep The Faith
Faith is the ingredient that brings to life all the things we hope for and it’s not always easy to “keep the faith”.  When we can’t see any physical evidence of the things we desire, we just have to believe. It can be difficult to remain confident in our believing when there are so many negative distractions around us all the time; like doubt, fear, frustration, impatience, people, saying, “that’s never going to happen” etc. which can cause us to give up hope, when the answer could have been just around the corner. So let’s not throw away our confidence in God and His promises. Let’s stay focused and have a little patience, because after we have believed, the pay off could be huge. We can’t believe one minute and then give up the next, but just like Abraham, let us be fully convinced that what God has promised, He is able also to bring it to pass.
Scripture: Hebrews 10:35 Cast not away (don’t throw away) therefore your confidence (assurance, boldness), which hath great (big, a large amount) recompense of reward (compensation or pay).  :36 For ye have need of patience (endurance), that after ye have done (completed) the will of God, ye might (may) receive (bring to yourself) the promise.
Prayer: Father God, I rejoice in You this day, I am so thankful for Your unconditional love, for looking beyond my faults and seeing the need. Father, thank You for being my hope and anchor in the storms of life and for never leaving me nor forsaking me. Thank You for Jesus, who made all this and more possible for those of us who believe in You and the power of Your Word. I know that without faith it is impossible to please You and so Father I believe, I am fully persuaded that Your promises shall surely come to pass, they will not come back to You without producing results. I praise, honor and glorify You Father, I love You with all that I am and thank You for all these things. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of August 11, 2012

Agree To Disagree
Our mind is a battlefield and sometimes we literally have to destroy the negative attitudes, insecurities, fears and thoughts that can disable our potential. And since our lives move in the direction of our thoughts, we must disagree with the ones that are against the knowledge of God. We can only think one thought at a time, so we need to choose them wisely. The words that we say and the thoughts we think have power to change us, in a positive way, or a negative way. The Bible teaches us that, as a man thinks in his heart so is he and if we believe the things we say, they will surely come to pass. So once in awhile we need to take inventory of the things we are thinking and saying, to be sure our thoughts and words agree with the truth of God’s Word, which is able to save our souls.
Scripture: II Corinthians 10:5 Casting down (take down, destroy) imaginations (thoughts), and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity (bring into subjection) every thought to the obedience of Christ.
Prayer: Father God, I am so thankful for revealing the truth to me in Your written Word, so I can be prepared with everything I need to live in this day and age with a complete understanding of how to prevail in any given situation. And Father, as I continue to mature spiritually, I pray for wisdom and knowledge to perform that which is needed in my life to reach the next step in my spiritual growth. I thank You for being with me every step of the way and for leading me and guiding me by way of Your Spirit. Father, I praise You for all You have done for me and all You will continue to do. I love You with all I am and I thank You that You are not finished with me yet. Father I pray and ask all this in the wonderful name of Jesus Christ my Lord and I give You thanks. Amen

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For the Week of July 8, 2012

Fatal Attraction
From the Bible we can learn all kinds of things about our heavenly Father, one of which is; He is incapable of being tempted, nor would He tempt anyone. But we, on the other hand, give in to temptation when we are lured away by our own lust and take the bait that is set by the adversary to trap us. When we wander away from the truth we could find ourselves in all kinds of trouble. But the Bible says, happy is the one that is able to bear up under the temptation and successfully complete the test, because they will receive the crown of life. So, let us not be attracted by anything that lures us into the trap of sin, because when the process is complete, it could prove to be deadly.
Scripture: James 1:12-16 Blessed (happy) is the man that endureth (stands up under) temptation: for when he is tried (tested and found approved), he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. :13) Let no man (no one) say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be (is incapable of being tempted) tempted with evil (evil things), neither tempteth He any man. :14) But every man (each one) is tempted, when he is drawn (lured) away of his own lust (over desire), and enticed (takes the bait). :15) Then when lust hath conceived (taken root), it bringeth forth sin (to miss the mark in thought, word and deed): and sin when it is finished (complete, full grown), bringeth forth death. :16) Do not err (wander off, stray from the truth), my beloved brethren.
Prayer: Father, forgive me for all that’s in this world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life. Father, I ask for Your shield and garrison of protection around me, my family and my home. I pray for peace that passes all understanding, for comfort and joy that is in the Holy Ghost. Father, give me the strength to bear up under the temptations and the determination it takes to stand up against the trap of the wicked. I will not wander away from the truth, I will stay close to You always. Father, I love You and thank You for everything, in Jesus name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of July 1, 2012

That’s Life
We waste precious time and energy worrying about other people and things we can’t change or do anything about. There’s always going to be someone that irritates us, or things that upset us and people we don’t agree with, but what matters is how we react and deal with unpleasant situations. We need to remember, it’s just life and sometimes bad things are going to happen. We can’t be responsible for anyone else and the things they do, or don’t do, we can only be accountable for our- selves. So don’t worry about the evildoers, God will take care of them. We will do better by focusing our time and energy on a lifestyle that is committed to trusting God and developing our relationship with Him, because that is where we will find all the desires of our heart.
Scripture: Psalms 37:1-4 & 8 Fret not (don’t get heated to the point of being annoyed or irritated) thyself because of evildoers, Neither be thou envious (jealous, or make a move to provoke them) against the workers of iniquity.  :2 For they shall (absolutely) soon (in a little while) be cut down like the grass, And whither as the green herb. :3 Trust (show confidence, have a relationship) in the Lord, and do (perform) good (things that are well pleasing). :4 Delight (be soft, pliable, flexible) thyself also in the Lord; And He shall give thee the desires (petitions) of thine heart. :8 Cease from anger, and forsake (leave behind) wrath: Fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Prayer: Dear Father, my life is in Your hands, mold me and shape me into being a representative of Your love. Father, thank You for opening my eyes to see the truth, that nothing can change Your love for me and that’s all that really matters. For it is in You that I live and move and have my being. Father, I pray You will help me not to worry about the things I can’t change, or what others do or say, only help me attend to the one thing that really matters and that is my relationship with You. Father, I love You and thank You in advance for all these things. In Jesus name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of June 24, 2012

Labour Of Love
God will never forget your labour of love, the things we do that go unnoticed, big or small, He knows them all. The Bible encourages us not to give up in well doing, because in God’s time we will be rewarded for our good deeds. If we can remember what Jesus said to his disciples… when I was hungry, you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me water, I was a stranger and you took me in, naked and you clothed me, sick and in prison and you visited me. And the righteous will reply, Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you drink? A stranger and help you? Or sick and in prison and visit you? Jesus said, I will tell them, when you have done it to the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto me. So when we have the opportunity let us do good to all, especially unto those who are of the household of faith and we shall surely be rewarded, if we don’t lose heart.
Scripture: Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward His Name, in that ye have (having) ministered (served) to the saints, and do minister (service).
Prayer: Father God, thank You for helping me to see that through Your Word and by Your Spirit there isn’t anything I can’t do, because I know that I can do all things through Christ Who gives me strength. I will never give up on doing those things which are pleasing in Your sight. Help me I pray, to follow through on the things You have put in my heart to do. Father, I pray You will make me a vessel of honor to fulfill Your purpose in my life, so I can do good to all, knowing that You will not forget my work and labour of love. You have done so much for me and I ask in Jesus name, what can I do for You today? Help me to be a more effective witness in this world of Your great and mighty love. Teach me Father to love with all that I am. I pray all this in Jesus wonderful name and I give You thanks.  Amen
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For the Week of June 17, 2012

Who Me?
In Matthew chapter 22 Jesus said we make an intentional mistake by not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God, because the entire Bible was inspired by God Himself and is extremely profitable to anyone who believes enough to act on it. It’s God’s desire for us to have great success. So then, what holds us back? Who hinders us from our progress? When do we get ourselves off track? Where do we go wrong? And how can we be free from the things that make us weak? The things that hold me back are my own fleshly desires, the only person that can stop my progress is me, I get myself off track when I’m not putting God first, I go wrong when I turn away from God and go my own way, and the truth will make us free if we would decide to follow it. Just like Jesus when he said, “Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done.” (Luke 22:42)
Scripture
: The apostle Paul wrote to the church in Galatians 5:7 Ye did run well; who did hinder you (you were running well, who stopped you) that ye should not obey (follow) the truth? Galatians 5:16 This I say then, Walk (live) in (by) the Spirit, and Ye shall not fulfill (manifest) the lust of the flesh.
Prayer: Gracious heavenly Father, I give You praise this day, for I know that Your grace is sufficient for me and You will never leave me, but Father, You will always be there when I need You. Father, I ask You to forgive me for not putting You first in my life, I pray for a change of heart and the determination to build a closer relationship with You, that I might learn to love You more. Father, I thank You for not only hearing my prayers, but for the answer also. I thank You for loving me and accepting me just the way I am and I ask that You will help me find it in my heart to love and accept others also. Father, You truly are amazing and I love You with all my heart. Father, I pray and thank You for all this in the wonderful name of Jesus Christ, my Lord.  Amen

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For the Week of May 13, 2012

Empowered Part II – One Size Fits All
 All the struggles we go through and every battle we face in life is just another opportunity to demonstrate the undeniable power of God.  It doesn’t matter what we’ve done or how many mistakes we’ve made, God will never stop fighting for us, He will never let us fall. Sometimes it feels like we just get through one situation and before we know it we’re facing another, but if we will stand together with God and live everyday empowered with the whole suit of armour, there isn’t anything that can take us down.  It’s up to us to put the armour on and keep it on, to be prepared and ready with the truth, stay in fellowship with God and live each day according to the standard of His Word, to bring the good news of peace and above all put on the shield of faith that will annihilate anything that is thrown at us by the wicked one.  Let the faith of Christ, who is our salvation, be our defense, by the Holy Spirit of God and the Word of truth.                                                                              Scripture: Ephesians 6:13-17 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able (strong) to withstand (resist) in the evil day, and having done all, to stand (come out of the battle & are ready again).  :14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;  :15 And your feet shod (to bind on) with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  :16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall (absolutely) be able (empowered) to quench (extinguish) all the fiery darts of the wicked.  :17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Prayer: Father God, I thank You for Your Word, which is the very source of my strength, because I am what the Word says that I am, I have what the Word says that I have and I can do what it says I can do. I give You praise this day and I will put on the whole armour of God that I might be strong enough to stand against all the wiles of the devil. In Jesus’ name I pray and thank You.  Amen

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For the Week May 6, 2012

Empowered
As we learn more about God’s Word and the kind of Christian’s we should become, we realize that at some point in our lives we have to take a stand one way or the other and decide who’s side we’re going to be on. If we don’t take our position and stand with God, we will most certainly not be strong enough to resist the evil forces of the devil. The apostle Paul instructs the church to put on the whole armour of God, which means to clothe ourselves with every piece, just like putting on a complete outfit. If one piece of it’s missing, we will be exposed and vulnerable to the enemy. Our strength and ability is limited at best and can in no wise ever begin to compare with the power of Almighty God. So let us take our position with God, be strong in the Lord, put on our armour, remain in the power of His might, that we might be able to resist the methods of the devil.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-11 Finally (from now on), my brethren, be strong (empowered) in the Lord , and in (in & remaining in) the power (force) of His might (strength). 11 Put on (clothe yourself in) the whole (complete) armour (suit) of God, that ye may be able (strong) to stand (with pressure against) the wiles (methods) of the devil.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You truly are amazing, who can understand the magnitude of Your mighty power, there are no words to describe what a wonderful and awesome God you are. Father, I thank You for even considering me, for loving me and saving me. I pray You will watch over my family, friends and loved ones, and keep them safe. Father God, help me to put on all Your armour, that I might be strong enough to stand against the power of the enemy. I thank You for the strength of mind to resist all the methods of the devil, so I can be a help to others also. Father, I love You and thank You for all You have done for me and all You will do in the future. In Jesus’ powerful name I pray for all these things and with all my heart I thank You.  Amen

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For the Week
April 22, 2012

The Greatest Love
Our greatest commandment is to love God with all of our heart and love our neighbor as ourselves. We should always pursue things that will produce an outcome of peace, things that build one another up, not tear each other apart. Love does not engage in evil toward others, it’s not jealous, or easily provoked, it’s slow to anger, it’s patient, it does not boast and it doesn’t behave unbecomingly. Love does not rejoice in sin, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all, hopes all, believes all and endures all things. The love of God absolutely never fails and the Bible says that without it we are nothing. If we understand all mysteries, if we have all faith, so that we could move mountains, if we give all our goods to the poor and have not love, it profits us nothing. Without God’s love in manifestation, we have become no more than a dead sound that no one will ever hear.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 13:13 And now abideth (endures forever) faith, hope, charity (love), these three; but the greatest (more important, greater) of these is charity (love).
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, my past, present, and future is in Your hands and I know that even from a child You have been with me always. For You have watched over me and carried me through the storms of life and given me the things I need to make it through to the other side. You are a great and mighty God, Who is full of mercy and compassion for Your children. Father, I thank You that You know just what I need, even when sometimes I don’t agree. Father, I trust You with all of who I am and I pray that You will continue to show me the way. Lead me and guide me I pray, down the right path, help me to choose only those things which are profitable for me, help me to love unconditionally, even as You have loved me, Father. That I might be a light of hope to those around me, so they too can know the greatest love of all. I love You Father God, with every fiber of my being. In Jesus’ name I pray and give thanks.  Amen

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For the Week of April 1, 2012

The Big Picture
Our minds assemble individual facts into an organized whole, just like collecting the pieces of a puzzle and putting them together, giving us the ability to grasp the big picture. The Bible tells us not to live our lives as fools, but as wise, understanding what the will of the Lord is and we know that the will of God is the Word of God. Sometimes we have to wake ourselves up mentally in order to understand how all the things we have learned from God come together to reveal His plan for us. The Word of God also encourages us to make the most of every day, because the days are evil. Our lives go by so fast, the days turn to weeks, weeks to months, to years and the next thing we know we’re wondering where all the time has gone. The fact is, we are not getting any younger, so we should make the most of each moment, just as if we paid for each one and try to understand as much as we can about what the will of the Lord is. The more of God’s Word we know, the better understanding we will have of His perfect plan.
Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-17  See then that ye walk (live) circumspectly (accurately, sharply, maturely), not as fools, but as wise. 16 Redeeming (buying up) the time, because the days are evil. 17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding (put together mentally) what the will of the Lord is.
Prayer: Father God, I thank You for Your Word and for teaching me Your ways. I pray You will open the eyes of my understanding, so that I can see more clearly Your perfect plan for my life. Father, I ask for wisdom and the determination to make the most of each day in reverence to You, that I might know what Your will is. I thank You for helping me to make each moment count and I know that Your grace is sufficient for me, so that I can be all that You have called me to be. Father, I love You with all that I am and I give You all praise honor and glory for Who You are, for Your Spirit that leads and guides me, for Jesus and most of all for Your Word. Thank You Father, in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

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For the Week of Feb. 17, 2012

Serving Our Purpose
Even as the rain falls from the sky to water the earth, so it can grow seed; as sure as a pregnant women will bring forth a child, so shall God’s Word advance and press through until It is fulfilled. It will never come back empty, or without serving its purpose. That’s how important it is for us to know, understand and apply the promises of God, so we don’t live empty lives with no purpose, because it sure goes by in a blink.
Scripture: Isaiah 55:10-11 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth (the Word is just as sure as a pregnant woman bringing forth a child) and bud (grow), that it may give seed to the sower, and bread (life) to the eater: 11 So shall My word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return (come back) unto Me void (without being fulfilled), but it shall accomplish (advance) that which I please, and it shall prosper (accomplish) whereto I sent (press through until it’s fulfilled) it.
Prayer: Father God, I thank You for being my heavenly Father and I come boldly before You, thanking You and praising You, that You know me better than I know myself. Father, You know every single hair on my head, You know what I need and what is best for me. Father, I pray that as I grow in You, that You will be my very present help in time of need and I thank You for loving me always. I thank You for Your purpose being fulfilled in my life, so I might be a witness of Your love to others and a light that shines in the lives of those who are lost and without You in this world. Father, I thank You for guiding me and showing me the way and I will love You forever. I pray for all these things in the mighty name of Jesus Christ my Lord and Saviour.   Amen.

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For the Week of Jan. 15, 2012

It’s Your Move
God has taken all the guess work out of believing; we don’t have to wonder if what we believe is true or not, because God’s Word is truth. All we have to do is take God at His Word and trust that what He has promised, He is able also to perform. God didn’t promise us a problem-free life, with no trials or temptations, but what He did promise is that we’ll get through them.  All we need to do is take God at His Word, act on it and it will surely come to pass. The commitment we need to trust God is up to us and the determination it takes to believe enough to act on His promises falls directly in our court, which then makes it “our move”. Once we have done our part, by acting on what we have believed, the ball is back in God’s court, exactly where it should be and we can rest assured that He is faithful to produce what He has already promised.
Scripture: James 1:25 But whoso (he that) looketh (to look) into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth (remains there) therein, he (the one who looks into and continues in the Word) being not a forgetful (doesn’t let it slip away) hearer, but a doer (a performer) of the work , this man (this one) shall (absolutely) be blessed (saturated in God’s blessings) in his deed (actions).
Prayer: Holy Father, I thank You that You are a gracious and loving God, full of mercy and truth. You have done so much for me; You have loved me, forgiven me and saved me even though I don’t deserve it, but You did it anyway.  Father, I could never repay all You have done and I am forever grateful that You considered someone like me. You have taken me out of the darkness into Your marvelous light to show forth the excellence of who You are. Father God, I know You are faithful to perform Your promises, I look forward with great anticipation for the manifestation of them in my life and I will forever give You all the praise, honor, and glory. Father, I love You with all of my heart, mind, soul and strength and I thank You. In Jesus’ wonderful name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of Jan. 1, 2012

Up The Anti
If we want 2012 to be just like 2011 then we shouldn’t change a thing, but if we want the new year to be different, we have the ability to change things, to make it “new” in the truest sense of the word. In Ephesians the apostle Paul encourages us to put away our old fleshly ways, the old behaviors and be “renewed” (to renew our spiritual vitality, make it young again) and to put on the “new” man which basically means to wear on the outside what God has created on the inside, in order that the whole course of life will flow in a “new” direction. Therefore let us be “new” and different, in the way we think, how we choose to live each day and put on the new nature from God, created in righteousness and true holiness.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:22-24 That ye put off (lay down) concerning the former (previous) conversation (behavior) the old man (fleshly ways), which is corrupt (spoiled) according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed (brand new) in the spirit (life) of your mind; 24 And that ye put on (puts on a new character) the new man (the new nature), which after (from) God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the power of Your Word, for the inspiration that it can have in our lives when we believe what You have promised and then begin to live what we have believed. Father, I pray in Jesus’ name that this new year will be more than I could ever hope for, that it will bring an abundance of peace, health and prosperity, that only You can give, more importantly a new beginning, a fresh start. Father, that I might be more committed to You than ever before and to the new man You have created in me. Father God, I am all in, I give my everything to You. I will put away my old ways and live my life for You. Father, I love You and give You all praise, honor and glory. In Jesus’ name I pray and thank You for all these things.  Amen

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For the Week of Dec. 18, 2011

Follow Your Heart
In our lives there are those unmistakable moments when we just have to follow our heart in order to find our way. Sometimes we must go beyond what’s familiar to find the miracle, go the extra mile to reach what seems impossible. In Luke chapter 2 the shepherds were doing their everyday jobs when all of a sudden, an angel of the Lord spoke to them and they immediately dropped everything they were doing to go and see what was told to them. Sometimes we need to be like those shepherds and drop what we’re doing so we can follow God ‘s purpose, because too often we try to get God involved in our plans, when really what we need to do is get on board with His master plan.
Scripture: Luke 2:8, 10-12, 15-16
And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 10 And the angel said unto them, “Fear not: for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” 15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger.
Prayer
: Dear Heavenly Father, I rejoice in the birth of Jesus, for on that day in the city of David was born a Saviour, Christ the Lord, I thank You for life that comes through him, for all he has done and all that he will do. Father God, I will never forget that day. I thank You for saving me and keeping me always with You, Father that I might not fail thee, but only do those things which are pleasing unto Thee. I love You with all that is within me and bless Your holy name. In Jesus’ mighty name I pray.  Amen

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For the week of Nov. 27, 2011

A Name Above All Names
How many times have we felt that we can’t go on? Have life’s pressures and circumstances become unbearable? In John 10:10a, the Bible says, The thief (the devil) cometh not, but for to steal (to take all that you have), and to kill (slaughter), and to destroy (render useless). We must recognize who is behind our feelings of inadequacy. We are designed by God to be an instrument of pleasure unto Him (Rev. 4:11). He has given us a Gift in order to help with our feelings of uselessness or exhaustion from life’s many obstacles (Matthew 11:28). God’s Son, Jesus Christ, is that Gift. He was given to us so that we could have everlasting life (John 3:16) and a life that is more than abundant (John 10:10b). We are to use that Gift, that powerful name, the name of Jesus Christ, the Name Above All Names.
Prayer: Dear God, I thank You for being my Heavenly Father. I thank You for giving me a Gift that I can turn to in my time of need. I thank You for protecting me against the thief and for making available the abundant life and everlasting life through Your Son, Jesus. Father God, help me to become what You have created me to be, an instrument of pleasure unto You. Help me to realize that I can do what You say I can do through Your Word and through that powerful name of Jesus Christ. I rebuke the devil, you cannot take all that I have, you cannot slaughter me, you cannot render me useless. I confess the abundant life and the comfort I have knowing that when I am feeling heavy laden and burdened, I can come unto Jesus for rest. I thank You God for all things and it’s in that Name Above All Names, Jesus Christ, that I pray.  Amen.

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For the Week of Nov. 20, 2011

Straight From The Heart
Most of us are better by nature than we are by grace. But for those of us who have to work a little harder at being kind, loving and generous, it helps to remember that God teaches these very important principals in His Word for our benefit, because He knows that in giving we will receive from the Lord. The apostle Paul writes in Ephesians, to do the will of God from the heart, knowing that whatsoever good thing anyone does the same shall he receive from the Lord. Jesus taught his disciples saying, when I was hungry, you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you took me in. His disciples said, when did we feed you, give you drink and take you in? Jesus said, inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Scripture: Ephesians 6:7-8 With good will (kindness) doing service as to the Lord, and not unto men: 8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing (benefit) any man doeth, the same shall he receive of (from) the Lord whether he be bond or free.
Prayer
: Gracious Heavenly Father, I thank You for the wisdom that comes from knowing Your Word and how it can change the way I see things. Father, I pray that You will change my heart so that I might see the way You see, Father that You truly do look beyond my faults and see the need. Father, I thank You for accepting me just the way I am and in spite of my condition You gave the most precious gift of all, Your only Son. Father, help me I pray, to have such a heart, one that is willing to give beyond measure, knowing that I can never out give You. Father, now I know that when I give to others, I am actually giving to You and it’s in giving that I will receive from You, so help me to give generously, just like You, without partiality or expectation of anything in return. I love You Father God, I praise You for Your loving kindness, for blessing me all the days of my life, for the gift of Your Son Jesus and it’s in his powerful name I pray.  Amen

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For the week of Nov. 13, 2011

The Proof Is In The Pudding
If being a Christian were illegal, could they find enough evidence to convict us? If someone needs food and clothing and we say, “go in peace and be warmed and filled.” What is the profit? There is none, because they would still be hungry and cold. It would be just like saying, “I have an extra coat and some food, but I’m not going to give them to you, have a nice day.” In the very same way we can see how faith without works is dead, we have to put some action behind what we believe in order to produce any results. Believing together with performance is complete and can produce great results. Faith is proven by it’s works, so we must act, or perform what we believe. James said, I will prove my believing through my performance.
Scripture: James 2:22 Seest thou how faith wrought (together) with his works (action), and by works (action) was faith made perfect (complete). James 2:26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith (believing) without works (action) is dead (barren) also.
Prayer: Father, I know that every promise You have made is true. When I take You at Your Word and act accordingly, You are always faithful to perform it. Father, I pray that my actions will prove what I believe, to the point of doing the things that will be profitable to me, according to that which You have promised in Your Word. Father, I pray that my performance will be a direct reflection of faith in You and confidence in the things You have taught me, because I know that Your way will bring the greatest results to my life. Father, help me to believe that no matter what I’m going through You will see me through to the other side and I pray for the strength of heart to never give up. I pray my actions will prove my faith in You and the power of Your love, so others might see it and believe also. Thank You for Your many blessings, for watching over and keeping me always in Your care. I love You and I thank You for all these things, In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of the Nov. 6, 2011

Perfect Strength
The apostle Paul completely understood the dynamic of strength and weakness. He writes about it in his second letter to the Corinthian church (who by the way, were having problems). Paul wrote that whoever boasts, let him boast in the Lord, not in themselves. He says, even though I love to boast, I will not be a fool, in order that no one thinks I’m more than I am. Paul knew it was better to boast about how God’s strength becomes perfect when we are unable to produce results on our own. He explains that he takes pleasure in his human weakness, because then the power imparted by God will be there when the need arises. We should remember to boast about God, how His strength can get us through anything that comes our way and when we face adversity for Christ’s sake; when I am weak, then am I strong.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 12:9 And He (The Lord) said unto me, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength (the power of God) is made perfect (complete) in my weakness (inability to produce results).” Most gladly therefore will I rather glory (take pleasure) in my infirmities (weakness), that the power of Christ may rest (tent over me) upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities (weakness), in reproaches (insults), in necessities (to be in need), in persecutions (suffering), in distresses (worries) for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak (in the natural), then am I strong (powerful, capable, able).
Prayer: Father, I thank You for the promise of Your strength and that it is perfect when I am weak in my own ability. I pray that You will continue to teach me Your ways, so I can grow to be an effective witness of Your love and hope to others. Heavenly Father, I pray You will lead me and guide me everyday by Your Spirit, I thank You for loving me when I am not so lovable and for never giving up on me even though sometimes I give up on myself, because I know Father, when I am weak You are strong in me. I love You Father. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week Oct. 30, 2011

More Than Words Can Say
We’ve all heard the saying, “actions speak louder than words.” It’s so true, because the things we do speak volumes, in fact our actions will support what we say. The Bible encourages us to consider our ways, examine our conduct (behavior) to see whether or not it’s worthy of the gospel of Christ. We should always try to behave appropriately, no matter what the occasion, or who we’re with. Someone’s always watching us; our Father in heaven, the people around us, and those who hear about us from others. We should make every effort to be good ambassadors (representatives) for Christ and let our actions speak louder than our words,. So when people see us, they will see a true representation of the Christ in us the hope of glory.
Scripture: Philippians 1:27 Only (apart from everything else) let your conversation (manor of life, behavior) be as it becometh (is worthy of) the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs (circumstances) that ye stand fast (to be constant), in one spirit, with one mind striving (working) together for the faith of the gospel (good news).
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me how to be a better Christian by learning more about You through the knowledge of Your Word and how to be a good representative of Christ, so that I can be an example to others, especially to my friends and family. Father, I praise You because I know You are not finished with me yet and that You will complete the work You have started in me. I pray You will mold me into someone who can share the good news of Christ with others, not just with the words I say, but also by my actions. So they too might know the power of Your love in their own life and be able to share it with others. Father, I love You with all my heart, I thank You for hearing my prayers and answering them. In Jesus’ loving name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of Oct. 23, 2011

Walk By Faith
So many different things influence the way we think, the decisions we make and how we live our lives everyday. What we hear, the things we see, how we feel, the way something tastes and smells will all help us make our decisions, good or bad, and by our five senses we better understand our human nature. But, it is by faith we realize that God exists and that our decisions should not be based on our five senses, but in the promise of God and the truth of His Word, because things are not always what they seem to be. The Word tells us to walk by faith, not by sight, so instead of looking for the things we can see, we actually should be looking for the things we can’t see, like God. Instead of listening to the wisdom of this world, we should be listening the Word of God, because we know that faith comes by hearing the Word and even though something might feel, taste and smell good, doesn’t mean it will be good for us.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal (temporary); but the things which are not seen are eternal (constant, heavenly).  2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk (live) by faith (believing), not by sight.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your mighty Word which is our map to life and that I can never go wrong when I believe in You. I praise You Father for loving me, for looking beyond my faults and seeing the need. Father, thank You for teaching me how to apply the Word in my life everyday, for the many benefits it brings to me, how it can change the way I see things and from this moment on I will look for You in all that I do. Father, I pray You will help me to live according to Your will and not be moved by what I see, but rather, only be influenced by the truth of Your Word. I love You Father with all that is within me, I thank You for Jesus, For Your Spirit and for Your many blessings. I pray all this in Jesus’ precious and powerful name.  Amen

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For the week of October 18, 2011

Stir Up The Gift
God has not designed us to fail, He has created us to be victorious, He made us with a desire to want more, to be better and be the very best we can be at everything we do. We have an internal drive to succeed, but if our mental focus is always negative and when we continually talk about how we can’t, or I could never, or I’m too old and I’m not good enough etc. then we have defeated ourselves before we even get out of the gate. So when we come face to face with life’s greatest challenges remember to stir up the gift of God that’s on the inside of us which provides; strength, God’s love and sound judgment.
Scripture: 1 Timothy 1:6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up (rekindle) the gift (God given ability) of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. :7) For God hath not given us a spirit of fear (to be timid, or fearful); but of power (strength), and of love (the love of God), and of a sound mind (disciplined, controlled thoughts).
Prayer: Father God in heaven, I praise You for Your loving kindness, for considering someone like me, that You have loved me with an everlasting love and have given Your only son so that I could have life. Father, I thank You for saving me and giving to me Your gift of grace, Your undeserved favor, I thank You for strength, unconditional love and a sound mind. Father, forgive me for doubting in my heart and help me to trust in the gift You have placed within me, I thank You for that God given ability which lives inside me and I pray You will help me remember to keep it stirred up, so I can be a good example, ready and able to share the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. I love You Father and I thank You for all these things. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of October 11, 2011

On The Right Track
The Bible teaches so many wonderful life skills and once in a while we need to be reminded of the basic principles, because they are the foundation of our Christian walk. The apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthian church that it’s okay to do just about anything, but not everything will give us an advantage, or be profitable to us. So when we get off course, we can go back to the basic fundamentals we have learned and get ourselves back on track. There are so many distractions in life and it’s so easy to be tempted with things that will lead us away from God, so we have to give it all we’ve got in order to stay focused on God and keep ourselves on the right track.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient (a profit or an advantage): all things are lawful for me, but all things edify (build) not.
Prayer; Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for teaching me how important Your Word is in my life and that it can truly make a difference no matter how hopeless things might look. Father, I thank You for the realization that with You all things are possible and I have put my trust in You because I know that You are faithful to perform that which You have promised. Father, there isn’t anything that can compare to You, You are everything to me, I ask that You would forgive me for getting off track and I pray for the strength I need to turn my life back around in the right direction. Father God, now I know that not all things are good for me, that even though most things are okay to do, it doesn’t mean they will be beneficial to my life or to the lives of others. Father, I pray that You will lead me and guide me by Your Spirit in all truth, I thank You for loving me always and most of all for Your Word that has taught me the way I should go. Father, I give You all praise, honor and glory for who You are and I love You. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the week of October 2, 2011

Just Around The Corner
Abraham is a perfect example of someone who did not give up on what God promised, after he patiently endured, he received the promise God made to him. We could be like Abraham and demonstrate that same attitude of faith and endurance until we have received the promises God has made to us in His Word. But sometimes we grow impatient waiting for the answer and when it doesn’t come right away we give up without realizing it could have been just around the corner. We must be patient and never stop believing that what God promised He is able also to perform. It’s our job to only (apart from everything else), believe with all our heart, so whatever your hoping for don’t give up too quickly, because it could be just around the corner.
Scripture: Hebrews 6:15 And so, after he (Abraham) had patiently endured (to endure patiently as opposed to losing faith or giving up) he obtained the promise.
Prayer: Father God, I want to thank You for Your Word and all of the wonderful examples You’ve given us to follow, that You have not left us without the instructions we need to be successful in all things that pertain to life and godliness. Father, I know with all my heart Your promises are true and You are faithful to perform them in my life when I believe and don’t give up. I believe in You Father and I thank You for helping me to see that Your promises will never fail. I pray Father for the same strength of heart to believe, even as Abraham believed, he never doubted that what You promised would surely come to pass. Father, forgive me for being impatient sometimes, but I will never give up hope because I know that You are always with me, helping me and guiding me by Your Spirit. Father, I cease not to give You all praise, honor and glory for who You are, for all You have done and for all that You will do. I love Father and will always be thankful to You for loving me. In Jesus’ precious and mighty name I pray and ask all these things.  Amen
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For the Week of September 25, 2011

God’s Masterpiece
We are God’s masterpiece, His crowning achievement, His finished product and He is committed to our success. God has designed each and every one of us to express beauty, balance and completeness, which was His plan from the beginning, in the garden of Eden. When we invest ourselves in God’s plan and purpose for our life, the return will be far greater than we could ever imagine. So let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that holds us back from becoming all that God has designed us to be and move on to spiritual maturity where we will be able realize the maximum of our potential. We are God’s complete, finished product, produced in Christ Jesus unto good works. God never gives up on us and He will always be there to back up His workmanship, which is far greater than any manufacturer’s guarantee.
Scripture: Ephesians 2:10 For we are His workmanship (master- piece), created in Christ Jesus unto good works (God’s plan), which God hath before ordained (prepared) that we should walk (deposit ourselves) in them.
Prayer: Father, I love You with all that I am and all that is within me, bless Your holy name, for You knew me even before the world began and I know there isn’t anywhere I can go that you aren’t with me. Father, I thank You that You are not a God Who is afar off, but You are as close to me as my very breath and You will never leave me or forsake me. I praise You for never giving up on me, even though I have gone my own way, You have never let me down, it is I that have let You down. So Father, I give my life to You and I pray that You will deliver me from the things that keep me from being all that You have created me to be in Christ. I thank You for the work You have begun in me and that You are faithful to complete it until Jesus comes again. Thank You Father for standing with me as I grow and for being committed to my success. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of September 18, 2011

What’s In Your Toolbox?
God speaks to us through the Word and He expects us to know all we can know by eagerly studying His written Word, in order to show ourselves approved unto Him. The entire Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, was inspired by God Himself, it is extremely profitable to us for; right believing, correction and instructions in righteousness, so that we can be fully equipped on the inside for every good work. Just like a handyman with his toolbox, ready to fix any problem he encounters, but if he doesn’t have his tools with him he won’t be able to fix much of anything. We are just like the handyman, we must have our tools with us at all times and be ready to use them to be of any benefit, so the more of God’s promises we know, the more effective men and women of God we will be. Knowledge of God and His Word is the most powerful thing we’ll ever know.
Scripture: II Timothy 2:15 Study (be diligent), to shew (present) thyself approved (accepted after examination) unto (to) God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing (to cut straight and correctly handle) the word of truth (the Word of God).
Prayer: Father God, I give You all praise, honor and glory for Who You are, Father, for Your Word which You have placed, set and magnified even above Your very name. I thank You that it will not come back to You without a perfect end and it will accomplish that which You please. I thank You for showing me how profitable Your Word can be in my life, it truly is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I pray You will teach me how to handle it correctly so that I can learn to use it effectively, Father, not for my temporary gain, but to uplift and encourage others, to bring hope to those in need and most of all glory unto Your Holy Name. Father, I pray for understanding and that You will open my eyes to see the power of Your Word, that it truly is alive, and when I believe it, receive it and act upon it, it will surely come to pass. In Jesus name I pray and thank You for all these things.  Amen
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For the Week of September 11, 2011

Look Up
When you look up into the clear blue sky with its white fluffy clouds and bright shinny sun by day and the beautiful stars perfectly painted across the expanse with the moon that gives a soft glow by night, it makes you wonder where it all came from and how did it get there? We can find the answer in Genesis chapter 1:1, it says that, God in the beginning created the heaven and the earth. God alone conceived, designed and created life, all of it, from mankind, to the earth, to the entire universe and God saw everything that He had made was very beautiful. After all God has blessed us with, surely we can trust in Him to guide our lives and supply our every need. All we have to do is look up and see the beauty of all God has made to realize there isn’t anything God can’t do.
Scripture: Genesis 1:1 God in the beginning created (to bring something into existence that never existed before) the heaven (everything above the earth) and the earth (the earth and everything below it). :27 So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them. :31 And God saw everything that He had made, and, behold, it was very good (beautiful).
Prayer: Father God, Creator of the heavens and the earth, I stand in awe of Your power, I realize that You truly are amazing and I can’t even begin to imagine how You do the things You do. When I see Your mighty works, I can’t help but remember that there isn’t anything You can’t do. Father, I thank You for all You have done, for creating this world we live in, for creating me exactly the way I am supposed to be, which is in Your image, and even though I don’t understand it all, I know that You have designed everything according to Your will. I trust You Lord that You will guide me and keep me always in Your care. In Jesus’ precious and loving name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of September 4, 2011

Home Sweet Home
No matter how far away from God we get, He is always watching and waiting for our return. Just like the prodigal son who threw away his inheritance on riotous living and when he had nothing left he realized that it would be better if he were a servant in his father’s house than feeding pigs and starving to death. When he came to himself (he changed his thinking and made the decision to move in the direction of his Father) he said, “I will arise and go to my Father.” This parable is really about a loving father who was waiting for his son’s return and when he came back home, his father was waiting with open arms to receive him. We’ve all gone down the wrong road at one time or another and found ourselves in places we shouldn’t be, when all that really matters is that we come back home to our heavenly Father.
Scripture: Luke 15:13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted (squandered) his substance with riotous (out of control) living. :14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want (need). :17 And when he came to himself (made a decision in his mind), he said, “How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!” :20a And he arose, and came to his father.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, I pray You will forgive me for all I have done, help me to get my life back on track and straighten out this mess I have made. Father, I thank You that all things are possible to them that believe and even though it seems impossible to repair the damage I believe with all my heart You will make a way where there seems to be no way. I love You Father, thank You for loving me enough to look beyond the faults and see my need. Father God, I will pick myself up and come back home to You where I belong. In Jesus’ wonderful name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of August 28, 2011

Priceless
Salvation comes with so many wonderful benefits to the believer, like; unconditional love, acceptance, forgiveness, joy, protection, power, strength, healing, an inheritance of all God has, blessings beyond measure, abundant life, peace that passes understanding, compassion, comfort, loving kindness, tender mercies that are new every morning, the faith of Jesus Christ that bridged the gap between God and man, the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us and more, but most importantly eternal life with God in heaven. The most amazing part of it all is, there isn’t a thing we can do to earn it, we can’t buy it, it’s not for sale, because it’s a gift of God, freely given to anyone who will receive it, (by grace ye are saved).
Scripture: Ephesians 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith (believing); and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: :9 Not of works, lest (in order that) any man should boast.
Prayer: Father, thank You for saving me, for giving me all that I need and more to live my life according to Your plan and Your purpose. I thank You for Your gift of grace that You have freely given and Father, I know I don’t deserve it, nor could I have ever earned it, but You gave it anyway, and I thank You for that. Father God, I praise You for Your perfect plan of salvation and all the wonderful benefits that come along with it, so that I can be an excellent witness to others, Father, that they might see the light of Your love in me. Father, I pray that You will forgive me of all my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Create in me a heart that loves You first and loves others also, so that I will be a good example to my friends and family of what You can do in the life of someone who believes in You and Your mighty power. I love You Father, thank You for keeping me in the palm of Your hand, for watching over me and my loved ones. I give You all praise, honor and glory. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of August 21, 2011

Easier Said Than Done
We will never be perfect while we’re here on this earth, the apostle Paul said in Romans chapter 7:24, “O wretched man that I am!” who will rescue me from this body of sin. He knew the struggle between his desire to do good and his sinful nature. We face the same struggle today, with our human nature constantly fighting against our spirit. However, if we are born again of God’s Spirit, then we have Christ in us the hope of glory, which is perfect in every way and because of that there is now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus who live not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. Clearly we can see the difference between our sinful nature and our spiritual nature. So the key is to focus our attention on being spiritually minded, because we know that our human nature cannot please God. Easier said than done, right? But we can do it if we allow God to be the center of our attention.
Scripture: Romans 8: 5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. :6 For to be carnally minded (minding of the flesh) is death; but to be spiritually minded (minding of the Spirit) is life and peace. :8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. :9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.
Prayer: Father God, I pray for Your guidance today, that by Your Spirit You will give to me the eyes to see Your truth, the ears to hear when You are speaking to me and the heart to know You more. For You truly are the center of who I am and I know with all my heart that when I put You first in my life, You will put me first. Father, I pray that You will be my strength all the days of my life and I thank You for helping me to be more spiritually minded so that it becomes my first nature to do the things that are pleasing in Your sight. I love You and thank You. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of 8/14/2011

Just One
There is far too much hatred and suffering in this world and if we we can somehow find it in our heart to be the one to make a difference, we surely can make the world a better place to live. It only takes one, “I’m sorry” it could be just one, “I forgive you” maybe even a, “what can I do to help?” or an, “I was wrong and I’m here to make it right” and you know it just might be a smile, or a kind word to someone we don’t even know, regardless of what it might be… it could make a difference. You say, “well I am just one person among many and I’m not going to change the world,” but if we think about all the one’s before us who made the decision to do something, I think we would be amazed at how many succeeded, ultimately Jesus, the one who took our place so that we could have life.
Scripture: I John 4:20
If a man say,”I love God,” and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God Whom he hath not seen? :21 And this commandment have we from Him, that he who loveth God love his brother also.
Prayer: Father in Heaven, I thank You that You know me even better than I know myself and sometimes when I’m not doing the things I should, You will be there to remind me to do them, because they are for my good. I pray Father, that You will help me to be a living, breathing, walking testimony to that which is good and true, that I might be the one to live Your love each and every day. Father, that I might be an exact type of Jesus, Who truly made a difference in the lives of so many and showed us how to be the one’s who can also make a difference in this world. Father God, I thank You for Your Son Jesus, I thank You for salvation and the gift of Your Holy Spirit, Father, for giving me everything I need to live a life that is pleasing in Your sight. I love You Father and thank You, in Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of August 7, 2011

With All My Heart
Every day that we live on this earth we can see it fading away. Things we thought would last forever are like flowers of the field, one day they’re here and the next thing you know they’re gone, which leaves us wondering, how can we trust anything anymore? The Word tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and if we choose God in all our ways, He will direct our paths, He will make our way straight, even and free of obstacles. We need to allow our heavenly Father and His mighty Word be our support system, let our faith and hope be in God and in His Word of truth which endures forever.
Scripture: I Peter 1:24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: :25 But the word of the Lord endureth (remains) forever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your Word that never fails, it will remain forever, even until the end of time. Lord, I know that Your Word of truth will prevail, no matter what and when everything else around me seems to be falling apart, I will remember Your promise, that You will never leave me, nor forsake me, for I have chosen the way of truth. Teach me Lord, in all Your ways, give me understanding, I pray and I will choose Your Word so that my way shall be prosperous. Father, I trust in You with all my heart,You are everything to me. I thank You for directing my path and removing the obstacles that try to get me off track. Keep me O Lord in the very palm of Your hand, where I know I will be safe. In Jesus’ powerful and loving name I pray for all these things.  Amen

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For the Week of July 24, 2011

Earnest Desire
God chastens those He loves, just like a loving father disciplines his children, God will correct us when we get out in left field, because He loves us and knows what’s best for us. God strongly advises us to live our life according to His Word, because He knows it’s exactly what we need to have an abundant life and sometimes we find ourselves halfheartedly going through the motions spiritually, with very little or no enthusiasm at all. It is God’s desire that we have a true change of heart toward Him, with an unwavering dedication to His Word. Scripture: Revelation 3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke (correct) and chasten (instruct): be zealous (have an earnest desire), therefore and repent (change the way you think).

Prayer; Dear Heavenly Father, I love You with all that I am and I thank You for instructing me in the things of Your Word so that I can truly live a life that is more than abundant. Father, You gave everything to save me from a life of sin and shame and I praise You for providing everything I need to have a healthy, prosperous journey through life. Father God, I pray for the endurance to hold up under the chastening and the strength of heart to persevere through the training because I know that afterward I will be stronger. Father, right now in Jesus’ name I rededicate myself to You and I pray that You will help me to be more committed than ever before to do Your will, that I might be a better witness of the gospel of Christ. And Father, it’s with a heart of thanksgiving that I pray and ask for all these things, I give You all praise, honor and glory. In Jesus’ glorious name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of July 17, 2011

Let It Be
The Bible teaches us to be men and women of our word, so before we commit to anything we should make sure that we’re able to keep our commitments and the promises we make. The book of James says in chapter 5, not to make promises we can’t keep. When we say, “yes” to someone or something, let it be yes and when we say, “no” we should mean no. We are God’s children which makes us ambassadors for Christ, we should be different and stand out among the rest as those who not only keep our word, but keep God’s Word as well.
Scripture: James 5:12 But above all things, my brethren swear (promise) not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath, but let your yea be yea; and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for the principals You have placed in Your Word so there can be no doubt as to what I should be doing. Father, I pray that You will help me learn to make good decisions so that I won’t keep making the same mistakes over and over again and when I need to say, ”no” give me the strength I need to stick to it. Father, I thank You for showing me in Your Word that I should consider all the details before I say, “yes” to anything and most of all to seek You for wisdom when I need it so that I can be a better representative for Christ. Father, I praise You because You know exactly what I need precisely when I need it and I know that You will never let me fall. Father God, I ask for Your strength and Your wisdom this very hour and I thank You Father for working in me that which will bring glory unto You. Father, I pray and ask all these things in Jesus mighty name.  Amen
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Weekly Prayer for July 10, 2011

One Thing Is Needful
In the gospel of Luke chapter 10 we read about Mary and Martha. Martha was worried about many things while her sister Mary sat at the feet of Jesus to hear His Word. In this record we can see the contrast of being distracted mentally and choosing to stay focused on what’s really important. Sometimes we get so busy with the activity of everyday life that we tend to neglect the things that are most important. It’s very easy to put them aside until later, then it seems like later never comes and if we’re not careful they can easily slip away from us without noticing. Just like Mary, we need to make God’s Word our first priority; above all else, because we know that faith (believing) comes by hearing the Word of God. Scripture: Luke 10:41& 42 And Jesus answered and said unto her, “Martha, Martha, thou art careful (worried) and troubled (agitated) about many things: But one thing is needful (necessary to provide what is needed): and Mary hath chosen (to make a selection from many other choices) that good (excellent) part, which shall not be taken away from her.”
Prayer: Father, this day I praise for Your magnificent Word, for it is the light of my life, Jesus said, “It is written, that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every Word of God “ and I thank You that Your Word truly is the bread of life. Father, I pray that You will give me the fortitude to make the choice in my heart, like Mary did, to hear Your Word, to make it a priority in my life so that I can learn how it works, that I might experience the fullness of Your power in my life. Father God, I ask for the understanding of it and that You will lead me and guide me by Your Spirit into all truth. Thank You for Your great love and for Your mighty power, I love You with all that is within me. In Jesus’ wonderful name I pray.  Amen
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For the Week of July 3, 2011

A Better Tomorrow
If we want things to be the same tomorrow as they are today, then we shouldn’t change a thing, but if we want tomorrow to be different, then we need to change what we’re doing today, because we know that what we sow (give) is what we reap (harvest). If we want corn, we have to plant corn, the same principle applies in our lives, positive or negative. If we want love, we have to give love, if we want friends, we must show ourselves to be friendly, when we need healing, we need to pray for others to be healed… and so on. On the other hand, if we’re mean and hateful to others, that is exactly how we will be treated. Scripture: Galatians 6:7 Be not deceived (led astray); God is not mocked (ignored) for whatsoever a man soweth (plants), that shall he also reap (harvest).
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your Word of life, that is truly living and real when I believe it and live it. Father, I know that I have missed the mark because of some choices I have made and things I have said, but now I want to change. I want to learn how to begin planting good seed in my life so that I can reap a good harvest. With Your help, I want to be a blessing to others and a good witness for the gospel of Christ. Father God, I am so tired of the way things are in my life and I am so ready to make that change, to start doing the things that will be profitable for myself and others. Father I pray for Your strength and the determination to be a doer of Your Word and not a hearer only, that my life might bring glory unto You. Father I will forever praise You, for Your loving kindness, for being my heavenly Father and I will love You always. In Jesus’ powerful name I pray and thank You for all these things.  Amen
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For the Week of June 26, 2011

Working The Word
Practical application of the Word is essential for a productive spiritual life. The Bible teaches us that an effectual, enthusiastic prayer life can produce great results. James writes in chapter one that, “if any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God”. If we don’t ask, how can we receive anything from God? Active, energized prayer puts God’s influence in effect and is capable of producing powerful results. There are two kinds of opportunities; 1. where we should be and 2. where we could be, the possibilities are endless, it’s up to us. Scripture: Matthew 7:7 & 8 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek (until you find), and ye shall find (obtain); knock (cont. knocking), and it (the door) shall be opened unto you: :8) For every one that asketh receiveth (into manifestation); and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Prayer: Father, I praise You for Your Word, thank You for making it available and showing me how to apply it effectively. I thank You for the integrity of it, how it fits just like a hand in a glove, and that You are faithful to perform it each and everyday. Father, I thank You for teaching me the principals I need to develop and grow to become all that You’ve created me to be. Lord, I thank You for the doors that shall be opened, for all the wonderful things You have in store and that there is no limit to the possibilities when I make my requests made known unto You. Father, thank You for helping me to learn that in order to receive, I must first ask according to Your Word and believe to receive the very things I pray for and it’s in Jesus’ name I pray and ask all these things, I love You Father and thank You in advance for all You will do.  Amen

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For the Week of June 19, 2011

Treasure
We have an abundance of the power of God living inside of us, the same power that raised Christ from the dead, so there isn’t anything we can’t do or overcome when we believe. When we’re faced with life’s toughest challenges we can rest assured knowing that we have everything we need not only to be victorious but also to conquer anything that comes our way.
Scripture: II Corinthians 4:7-9 But we have this treasure (deposit, wealth, eternal life) in earthen vessels, that the excellency (abundance) of the power may be of God, and not of us. :8 We are troubled (pressure of circumstances) on every side, yet not distressed (without direction); we are perplexed (not knowing which way to turn); but not in despair (without a way); :9 Persecuted (to be pursued constantly), but not forsaken (abandoned or left behind); cast down (lost), but not destroyed (killed).
Prayer: Father God, I praise You for Your perfect plan of salvation and all the benefits that come with it both now and in the life to come and even though I face the pressures and stress of this life when it bears down on me… Father, I know that no matter what, You will see me through it all. Father, I thank You that when I feel like I can’t face another day, You will carry me, when I don’t know which way to turn, You will give me direction and when I have no answers, You will shine Your light of hope in my heart and show me the way. For Father, You have made all things possible (Mt 19:26) through Christ to those who believe and I believe that You have placed in me, an abundance of power, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead and with that power I will surely stand and see the salvation of my God this very day. Father, I love You and it’s in Jesus’ loving name I pray and thank You for all these things, for Your glory.  Amen

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For the Week of June 12, 2011

Gifts
God’s love is the carrier for every good thing that comes our way. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16a). Just like parents know what their children need. Our heavenly Father knows exactly what we need when we need it and we can trust in Him to fully accomplish His perfect work in us until Christ comes again. (Philippians 1:6). God is our total source of every good thing that can happen to us, so don’t wander off or stray from the truth, we need to stay on course so we can receive all that God has in store for us.
Scripture: James 1:16 Do not err (wander off) my beloved brethren. :17 Every good gift and every perfect (complete) gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with Whom is no variableness (change), neither shadow (He is always directly above us) of turning.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for being the one constant in my life Who never changes, and I know that I can always count on You to know just what I need. Father, I thank You for all You have done for me, I pray that You will continue to perform Your promises in me so my life can be a good witness to others. Father, I give You my whole heart and ask that You will watch over it and help me stay on track so that I can be in position to receive all that You have for me. Father God, I cease not to give You all praise honor and glory for Who You are, for being my Heavenly Father and for loving me unconditionally. In Jesus’ precious name I pray and thank You for all these things. I love You Father.  Amen

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For the Week of June 5, 2011

A New Attitude
Our “outlook” can have a tremendous impact on the choices we make and the direction we take in life. Our mental “attitude” and the way we see things can change everything. Our “point of view” (the place from where we see things) can either be dark, or full of light, hope and expectation of a future filled with all we could hope for and more. If we allow God and His Word to be our center of reference, the place we direct our attention, the source of our information and the very focus of who we are, then not only will we see things more clearly but we will see them from God’s “point of view” which is very bright indeed.
Scripture: Matthew 6:22-23 The light (illumination) of the body (life) is the eye (outlook): if therefore thine eye be single (clear, focused), thy whole body (life) shall be full of light. :23 But, if thine eye (outlook, attitude) be evil, thy whole body (life) shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness! Prayer: Father God in heaven, I praise You for the power of Your Word, for the way it can change me and give new life to those who believe it. I thank You for Your promise of a life more than abundant and for salvation through Christ Jesus our Lord. Father, I pray that You will help me to grow in Your Word that I might see things the way You do so that I can be a living example of Your love to others. Father, I stand in awe of Your majesty, I thank You for loving me and helping me to know that I truly can change my attitude so that my life can be an example of one who puts You first. I love You Father with all that I am and thank You for the change You have made in my heart and in my life this day in Jesus name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of May 29, 2011

Clear Conscience
It’s in our human nature to judge others based on what we’ve seen, heard or think we know about someone. In the gospel of John chapter eight the Scribes and Pharisees brought a woman to Jesus who had been caught in the very act of adultery, they wanted to stone her and Jesus said to them, “He that is without sin among you, let him cast a stone at her.” They were convicted (shown to be wrong) by their own con- science (knowing one’s own conduct) and they left one by one. Clearly we can see from this record that it’s not our job to pass judgment or form opinions about anyone.
Scripture: Matthew 7:1-5 1) Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2) For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete (estimate), it shall be measured to you again. 3)And why beholdest (consider) the mote (splinter) that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4) Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, “Let me pull out the mote (splinter) out of thine eye; and behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5) Thou hypocrite, first cast (remove) out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye. Prayer: Father, forgive me for being judgmental of others. I pray that You will help me to see things the way You do, so that I can learn to love others even though I may not always agree with them. Father, I pray You will give me the fortitude to “put off” the old man in order that the course of my mind will begin to move in the direction of truth and forgiveness. Help me Father I pray to “put on” the new man with it’s new characteristics, created in righteousness and true holiness. Father, thank You for all these things and for helping me to see the truth of Your mighty Word. I love You and will forever praise Thy Holy Name. In Jesus’ loving name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of May 8, 2011

From the Heart
Have you ever believed in something so strongly only to find out it wasn’t true at all? The book of Proverbs (4:23) teaches us to guard our hearts above all because out of it flow the issues of life. The best way to protect our heart is to be sure we’re putting the right things into it. To ensure a good confession we must store up the Word of God in our heart because we know that “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” and we determine what we let into the door of our heart. Once our mind accepts something as truth our heart will believe it and at that very moment it’s stored in our heart, so we must be really careful of what we think say or agree with.
Scripture: Romans 10:10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for teaching me how important it is to have a good confession and what a huge difference it can make in my life. I pray that You will help me to take the initiative to learn Your Word, to apply Your Promises everyday no matter whats going on around me. Father, I believe Your Word and I accept it as truth and I thank You for the manifestation of it in my life each and every day. Father, I praise You for showing me how to guard my heart and that what I need more than anything else is to keep putting the Word in my mind and in my heart so that I will always be ready to share it with others. Father God, I love You always and thank You for the things You are doing in my life that I might be a better witness of Your love and what You can do in the life of those who believe. In Jesus’ name I pray and give You thanks.  Amen

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For the Week of May 1, 2011

Life and Death
The book of James talks about how that when we put bits in horses mouths, they obey us and we turn their whole body around, it also says that great ships are turned about by a very small rutter. Just like our tongues even though very small, they can stir up great things and that with the same tongue one minute we are blessing God and the next we are cursing. James writes, these things ought not be. Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy just by the things we say.
Scripture: Proverbs 18:21a Death and life are in the power (ability) of the tongue: James 3:13 Who is a wise man and endued (skilled) with knowledge among you? let him show (manifest) out of a good conversation (character) his works with meekness (humility) of wisdom.
Prayer: Father God, I pray that You will forgive me for the things I have said that are unbecoming of the gospel of Christ and for the things I have said that have hurt others. I pray Father that You will help me to change my ways so that I can produce good fruit in my life by speaking Your Word. Father, I thank You for teaching me Your ways, for they are true and upright, and today I will begin to speak the truth in love so that I might grow up into You in all things. I praise You Father for the change that can take place in a life just by one touch of the Masters hand and I thank You Father for touching my life in a special way this very day and this very hour in Jesus’ name I pray. I love You Father with all my heart, mind, soul and strength and will forever praise Your Holy name.  Amen

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For the Week of April 24, 2011

God’s Will
We are Christians, which means to be Christ-like. When Jesus was here on earth he was always doing the will of His Father, even when he was about to be crucified he prayed, “Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will but Thine be done.” Jesus chose to do the will of God ( he could have chosen not to do it), we choose to do the will of God by doing His Word everyday and if we continue therein not allowing it to slip away from us we surely will blessed in all that we do. God expects us to know what we can from His Word and then to apply what we have learned in order to produce the desired results in our lives. He teaches us to be doers of the Word, not hearers only.
Scripture: James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves (deluding yourself). James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word which You have placed above Your Own Name, Father, I thank You that it shall not return to You without it’s purpose being fulfilled, but it will advance until it’s accomplished. Father, I know that when I am a doer of Your Word it will produce good results in my life and I pray that You will help me to understand Your will and give me the fortitude to seek after the Promises, to know them that I might be one who not only hears but listens with the intent to perform it. Father, I praise You for Your written Word, for the things You have taught me so far and all the things I have yet to learn. In Jesus’ name I pray and give You thanks. I love You .  Amen

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For the Week of April 17, 2011

Above All
Why do we try to please others when we know that we can’t please all the people all of the time?  The only one we should try to please is God, Who will never let us down. When we do those things that are pleasing to God, He will do the things that are pleasing to us.  Having the satisfaction of doing the things we do out of the love that we have for God, we know that when we put God first we’re moving in the right direction and whatever we ask we will receive because we keep His commandments which are; love God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength and love our neighbor as our self.
Scripture:  1 John 3: 21 & 22 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then we have confidence toward God; And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight.
Prayer:  Father, I will do the things that are pleasing in Your sight and remember to always love You first. I thank You for teaching me Your commandments; to love You with all that I am and love my neighbor as myself.  Father I ask Your forgiveness for not loving others as I should and I pray that You will help me to forgive those who have treated me wrong. Father,  I pray that You will give me strength to forgive myself as well, because I have made many mistakes along the way. Father, I thank You for being with me always and for helping me learn how to grow in all things that pertain to life and godliness, that I might bring glory unto Your Holy Name. In Jesus’ powerful name I pray for all these things and I thank You for them all.  Amen

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For the Week of April 10, 2011

Heirs
Once we confess Jesus as Lord and believe that God raised him from the dead, not only are we saved, we also become the children of God and joint-heirs with Christ. Now we are the sons of God, who share fully in everything God has, filled with the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, and it will make alive our mortal bodies which were once dead because of sin. Having been made free from sin let us not focus our attention on the things of the flesh, but rather set our minds on the things of the Spirit where we will find life and peace.
Scripture: Romans 8:17a And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.  Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of Him That raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit That dwelleth in you.  Romans 8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
Prayer: Father, in Jesus’ name I thank You for saving me and filling me with Your Spirit, for delivering me from a life of sin and death, for choosing me to be Your child and a joint heir with Christ. I thank You for Your Spirit that now lives on the inside of me and has given me new life. I pray that You will lead me and guide me by Your Spirit every day. I ask for the wisdom and knowledge to make good choices that will be pleasing to You. Father help me to keep my focus on You and I thank You for loving me and being with me always. Father, I love You with all that I am and I thank You for Your many blessings. In Jesus’ precious name I pray and thank You for all these things.  Amen

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For the Week of April 3, 2011

Eternal Life
There is such a wide variety of religions to choose from that teach all kinds of different things, which can be confusing at times, as well as make us wonder if what we believe is true or not. If you’ve ever wondered about your eternal security, and whether your going to heaven or not, the only way to be sure is to find out what God has to say about it in His Word. The Bible teaches us that salvation through Jesus Christ will provide everything we need to complete our journey while we’re here on this earth, and also prepare us for what comes next, which is ultimately eternal life. In order to secure our place in heaven, we must first be saved.
Scripture: Romans 10:9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
Prayer: Father God in heaven, thank You for Your perfect plan of salvation, and the sacrifice of Your only son Jesus, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, and gave his life for me. Father, I confess Jesus as Lord of my life, and believe in my heart that You raised him from the dead. Thank You Father for saving me, and setting me free from the power of sin in my life. Father, thank You for forgiving me my sins, for Your gift of grace, which I could never have earned, and for eternal life with You. I will praise You for loving me unconditionally, and rejoice in the God of my salvation, for this day I have been made new. In Jesus’ loving name I pray, and thank You for all these wonderful things You have done for me.  Amen

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For the week of March 20, 2011

Change
It’s impossible to change other people, even though sometimes we would like to, the truth is we can only be accountable for ourselves. The Word of God encourages us to work out our own salvation, achieving to be effective in the knowledge of God, without complaining, that we may shine as lights in the world. One day, every one of us will give an account of ourselves to God, so let us live honestly, be kind to one another, remembering that we are the ambassadors of Christ.
Scripture: Philippians 2:12b-15 Work out your own salvation with fear (respect) and trembling (tremendous reverence). For it is God Which worketh in you both to will (desire to the point of action on His part) and to do of His good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings (complaining) and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke (blame) in the midst of a perverse nation among whom ye shine as lights in the world.
Prayer: Father I pray that You will forgive me for thinking of myself more highly than I ought to. With a humble heart I stand before You and ask that You will help me to change. You are the Potter, I am the clay, mold me and shape me to take on the characteristics of Who You Are. Even as You have accepted me, help me to accept others, and to demonstrate the qualities that are becoming of the gospel of Christ, that I might be a shining light of hope in this world. Father, I thank You for a real, and genuine change in my life from this day forward, and I will forever love You, and give You all my praise. In Jesus’ name I pray, and thank you.  Amen

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For the week of March 13, 2011

Results
Worrying is one of the worst things we can do when faced with adversity, it’s toxic, unproductive, and most of all God does not hear our worries, He hears our prayers. We always have the choice to stop wasting our energy on worrying, and instead begin producing results by praying. The Bible tells us that the energized, active, fervent prayer of the righteous is capable of producing much (or great) results. Effective prayer not only changes things, it allows God to become involved in a situation that might otherwise be hopeless.
Scripture: James 5:16 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.
Prayer: Father I believe in the power of Your mighty hand to change things, I believe in the power of Your love to heal, I believe in the promise of Your Holy Word that says, all things are possible to them that believe, and Father I truly do believe in You, and Your promises. I pray that You will intervene in this situation, I ask that You will stop the process of destruction, and begin to turn it around to the way it’s supposed to be according to Your Word of truth that promises healing, deliverance, peace, and abundance, through Christ Jesus our Lord. Heavenly Father, I love You with all of who I am, I thank You for hearing my prayer, and answering with an outcome that is far greater than I could have ever hoped for, and I cease not to give You all praise, honor, and glory, in Jesus loving, and powerful name I pray, and thank You for all these things.  Amen.

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For the Week of March 6, 2011

Setting Priorities
Setting priorities is a great way to keep our lives moving in the right direction. The Bible says that our first and great commandment is to love God, and the second is to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22: 36-39). We know that loving God means putting Him first in time, place, and order of importance in everything, and simple logic tells us that if our greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, mind, and soul, then not loving Him would be the greatest sin. If we give our heavenly Father His rightful position in our lives everything else will fall into place, as He has promised in His Word.
Scripture: Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Prayer: Father, I pray that You will forgive me for not putting You first, and from this moment on I will give You first place in my life. Father God, I thank You for Your many blessings, and for all the wonderful things You have done for me, for never leaving me, and for loving me in spite of all my faults. Holy Father, You know my heart, and I will love You always. In the morning when I rise I will seek Thee, and when I lay down at the end of the day, I will praise You, and I pray that You will continue to perform Your Word in me, so that I can be a blessing, and a help to others. Father, I ask all these things in Jesus name, I love You, and I thank You for them all.  Amen

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For the Week of February 27, 2011

Stay the Course
Life goes on everyday with or without us, and each day we live is another opportunity to live life to the fullest, striving for excellence in all that we do, thankful to God that He truly has made us able, through Christ. We have been given everything we need to complete our journey through life, but it’s up to us how we run the race that is set before us. Let us run with integrity, wisdom, and endurance like an athlete who is trained to perfection, so that when we come to the finish line we can be like the apostle Paul who said, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
Scripture: Hebrews 12:1b & 12:2a – 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, looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith, Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that You will lead me and guide me by Your Spirit to make excellent decisions; I ask for the wisdom, and knowledge to do the things that will only please You, so that my life will be a reflection of Your Son Jesus. Who, for the joy that was set before Him persevered, in spite of the obstacles; He stayed the course in the midst of opposition, and He finished the race. Father, I pray for the endurance to be steadfast and unmovable in the things You have taught me, looking only unto Jesus, the author and perfector of my faith, so that when I have finished the race, my life will bring glory to You. Father I thank You that in my weakness, You are made strong, and that You will always be there when I need You the most. Father, I love You, and will trust You through it all. In Jesus’ name I pray, and thank You.  Amen.

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“Draw Nigh”
We know our Bible verses, we learn about God’s Word, and how important it can be to our lives, but sometimes the connection just isn’t there, and we feel distant and far away from God. The Bible reassures us that God is as close to us as our very breath, and that He will never leave us nor forsake us no matter how we feel, or what we’ve done. God is right there with us, so if there is a disconnect in our relationship with God, it’s without doubt on our end. Therefore, what we need to do is reconnect with Him and stay connected.
Scripture: James 4:8 Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
Prayer: Father God, I praise You for being my Heavenly Father, the One in Whom I love, the One I praise; I thank You for loving me unconditionally , and Your promise that nothing in this world can separate me from Your love. Father, I pray that You will draw me closer to You, and that Your righteousness will direct my way. Strengthen my heart, O God to love You more; let integrity, and wisdom be my guide to the way of the Lord. I will rejoice in the God of my salvation, Who delivers me from all my fears. Draw me ever close I pray, O God, that I might know of Your mighty works, and Thy loving kindness that is better than life. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of February 20, 2011

Don’t Give Up
When life gets rough, sometimes we just feel like giving up; when the goin’ gets tough, we want to throw in the towel, and quit. But the apostle Paul said, “fight the good fight of faith” (don’t give up on believing), and he encourages us in the book of Galatians not to lose heart, or lose the courage to do things that are beneficial, and produce good results, because in His (God’s) time we will absolutely be rewarded for them. Whenever we have the opportunity let us do good, and don’t ever give up on your hopes and dreams; only you can keep them alive. The Bible tells us that . . . where there is no vision, the people perish, so let us continue in the faith believing that what God has promised, He is able also to perform.
Scripture: Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, I pray for the strength of heart to continue in the faith, for the will to fight, and not give up on the promises You have given to me in Your Word. For You are the light of my life, in You I live, move, and have my being. I know that with You all things are possible, so Father I won’t give up. I will stand with You forever, no matter what, and I will not doubt in my heart, but will only believe. Father God, I thank You for strengthening my heart this hour, and renewing a right spirit within me. Your Word says, “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, they shall walk and not faint,” teach me Lord, to wait upon You. Father I thank You for doing exceeding, abundantly, above all that I could ask or hope for, I love You , and I thank You. In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen

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Forgiveness is an essential ingredient to our relationship with God and sometimes letting go of past mistakes, poor choices and bad decisions we have made can be the most difficult of all.

The Bible tells us in:

I John 1:9 “If we confess our sins (to God) He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us form all unrighteousness.”

Father I ask you to forgive me for my sins and to help me to realize that the moment I’ve confessed, my sins are as far away from me as the East is from the West.  Father thank you for a brand new fresh start today in Jesus name I pray.  Amen

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For the Week of February 13, 2011

By Faith
We can’t see faith, but the very second we believe, that faith will bring to life the things we hope for.  By faith (believing), Noah built an Ark when he had never seen rain.  By faith (believing), Abraham & Sarah conceived a child when they were past the age of having children.  By faith (believing), Peter walked on water.  Without faith (believing) it is impossible to please God, we must believe he exists, and that when we pray, believe to receive the things we desire of Him.  There are two kinds of believing, positive and negative.  It works both ways, so we must always be sure to believe the truth, which is the Word of God, and be confident that the things we’re hoping for line up with the promises of God.
Scripture: Hebrews 11:1 Now faith (believing) is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You and Your perfect plan of salvation, and all the benefits that come with it.  Father I praise You for Your Word, which you have magnified, set and placed above Your name, and that all things are possible to them that believe.  Jesus said, “Have faith in God”, and when we pray, believe to receive, and we shall have the things we desire, and Father I believe in you , and that everything You said in Your Word is true.  Father I believe that You are faithful, willing, ready, and able to perform Your promises and I thank You for the manifestation of them in my life, in Jesus name, and Father that there is no end to the possibilities, when I believe in the power of Your Word and of Your love.  In Jesus name I pray, and ask all of these things, and I thank You for them all.  Amen.

Rev. Loree Pardi

2 Responses to Weekly Prayer by Rev. Loree Pardi

  1. Rev. Loree Pardi says:

    Life can be so good, but it sure can present it’s opportunities along the way and one of the most impotant things we can do during the good times and the bad is go to God in prayer. It is my hope that the weekly prayers will help motivate us all to pray more often and to pray effectively, thus producing great results in our lives and the lives of those we love. Happy praying. Loree

  2. Linda Walstrand says:

    Thank you Rev. Loree Pardi (Sis) for every single one of your weekly prayers. Of coarse, we all have our favorites- one’s that- hit us right in our heart. Your encouragment is so great and what God is doing with you, so you can reach so many. What is taught at G.T.O.C in Fairborn, Ohio is very good and is filled with truth, love and direction. I sure do miss everyone there and I’m so thankful to beable to have this website to stay ‘aboard’ and receive more teaching. Anyone reading this should know what comes from G.T.O.C is- the word of truth. Thank you again and God bless.
    Sincerely, Linda

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