Purpose in praise and prayer, illustrated in salt and light (Psalms 34; Matthew 5:12-19)

Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose... purpose is achieved...obey God’s laws and teach them... Matthew 5:17,18-19

Blessings and promises have purpose as salt and light have purpose. 

• Accepting/Receiving/follow-through: 
• Remember God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, theirs in the kingdom of heaven. 
• This progresses through mourning and comfort, humble except inheritance, thirst for righteousness and filled/satisfied, merciful shown mercy, 
• Leads to "born again" faith
• Pure heart sees God, peacemaker children, persecuted for righteousness -> theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Reading Blessings of Moses, explained by Jesus (Deuteronomy 28:1-14;Matthew 5:1-19) and enjoying memories of National Day of Prayer, how when we intercede for people we are joining Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the Father. When I close my eyes I can see heaven, like trees walking - the Lord restores my sight and my soul is filled. I'm blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms. Joy comes in the morning. Thank you Lord. 

Psalm 34:1-3) I praise the Lord, time, voice, boast - the helpless take heart, Lord's greatness, exalt his name (oh, magnify the Lord with me, he is worthy to be praised). Matthew 5:12) Be happy, very glad! great reward awaits you in heaven, remember prophets persecuted in the same way. 

• This verse is a reminder of the power of collective worship and the importance of sharing our appreciation and reverence for God with others, as we uplift His name together. 
• This Psalm has been on my heart since Teen Challenge Spiritual emphasis week. "I trust in God, my Savior the One - who will never fail... I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered - that's why I trust Him."
• The world is full of Spiritual believers but not followers of Jesus Christ, yet the Lord is winning people over, restoring hearts, minds, souls, strength when we love God and love one-another. 

Psalm 34:4-7) I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me, freed me from all my fears. Looking to Him for help makes me radiant with joy, the shadow of shame disappears. In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; He saved me from all my troubles. The angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. 

• Develop a prayerful outlook, Quiet time with the Lords Prayer

Psalm 34:8-10) Taste (salt) and see (light) the Lord is good - joy in refuge, Father/child trust/fear, have all we need, lacking no good thing. Matthew 5:13-15) Salt and Light have purpose

Psalm 34:11-14) children listen, learn to fear the Lord - live a good life, don't speak evil or tell lies, turn away from evil and do good, search for peace and maintain it. Matthew 5:16)- let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Psalm 34:15-16) Eyes of Lord watch over those who do right, ears open to their cries for help. But the Lord turns against evil doers and erases their memory from the earth.

17 The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help.

    He rescues them from all their troubles.

18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;

    he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

19 The righteous person faces many troubles,

    but the Lord comes to the rescue each time.

20 For the Lord protects the bones of the righteous;

    not one of them is broken!

21 Calamity will surely destroy the wicked,

    and those who hate the righteous will be punished.

22 But the Lord will redeem those who serve him.

    No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned.

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Using ChatGPT to embrace Christian faith and living according to its principles

I was watching a documentary called the Unbelievers that outlines the speaking careers of famous anti-religious atheist. The basic premise I got from them is that belief in God is a cop out because "it isn't true." That asking certain questions that point to God are non sensical like "What is the color of envy?" One thing I do agree with these atheists is the value in questioning your beliefs and even testing them. A great way to do this is through the Alpha Course in community with people, another tool that seems to be "unbiased" is ChatGPT.

See the whole thing here: https://chat.openai.com/share/72f340b0-1905-4fe0-827f-18ec8f036d81

Or do it yourself:

Non Biblical Reality of Jesus Impact on the World you live in:

• What are historical non-biblical sources about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ?
• Why is modern time (BCE and CE) associated with the birth of Jesus?
• What industries wouldn't work without a shared calendar?
• What industries were developed by Christians because of their Christian faith?
• Expand on Education and it's influence on political forms of government. (PS I'm getting ready for national Day of Prayer in a few days)

Biblical truths on Being a Christian:

• What does the Bible teach are the reasons for all the benefits you listed about being a Christian?
• Why is asking God for forgiveness, accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior and welcoming the Holy Spirit to come into my life necessary to be a Christian?
• According the Bible what makes asking God for forgiveness, accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior and welcoming the Holy Spirit to come into my life a permanent like birth, marriage or dying?

Biblical truths on living a new life with God:

• If I'm a Christian, what are external proofs of my faith that would testify to the world that I believe in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ?
• What are the reasons the Bible gives for people who are unbelievers? How can an unbeliever become a believer?
• Can you explain how the Father draws us, Jesus knocks on the door and Holy Spirit guides us?
• What does it mean that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved? Saved from what?

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Prayer for the Military and the Gospel of Peace

National day of prayer is tomorrow and I've been thinking about the eternal reign of Jesus Messiah.

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV).

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace

Today, my friend and I talk about war, how war happens when a group of people economic welfare is at stake. What would happen if Military and government took the view in the power of the Holy Spirit to solve problems with wonderful counseling that ended in peace?

Abraham, the great father of our faith (Romans 4:11-12), waged war to rescue Lot (Genesis 14:13-16). Joshua waged war against Jericho (Joshua 6). Moses led the Israelites against the Amalekites (Exodus 17). David, the man after God’s heart, fought against Goliath and the Philistines (1 and 2 Samuel). - War in the Old Testament 

Christian Code of Conduct for the Church Militant

• While we Christians on earth could be described as the "Church Militant" in heaven we will be the "Church Triumphant".

Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God, persecuted for righteousness (breastplate), theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:9-10

• Church Militant: Christians living in the struggle against (not with) sin and spiritual forces of evil.
• Not against people but spiritual forces of evil (Eph 6:12)
• Called to stand (Eph 6:13), not fight or flight (Daniel 3)
• Secure in the truth, supernatural protective clothing (righteousness Eph 6:14)
• Prepared to preach the Gospel of Peace (Eph 6:15)

Jesus says in Matthew 5:9 that people who have become sons of God have the character of their heavenly Father. We know from Scripture that the heavenly Father is a “God of peace” (Romans 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 13:20), that heaven is a world of peace (Luke 19:38), and most important of all, that God is a peacemaker (2 Corinthians 5:19; Colossians 1:20) - Jesus Made Peace

Additionally hold up your faith, take salvation and God's word with you (Eph 6:16)

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Prayer for family

Purpose for family
It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him" ...with every animal created none was suitable for him, So God made woman from man. For this reason a man shall leave his father and his mother, and be joined to his wife; and they shall become one flesh.  (Gen 2:18,20,21-22,24). Jesus and the early church taught this truth (Matthew 19:5,Mark 10:7-Mark 10:8,1 Corinthians 6:16,Ephesians 5:31). God blesses homes where he is put first and the family is "in the Lord" (1 Cor 11:11-12). "In the Lord" is to love one another as Jesus loves us, experiencing unity with God and complete joy (John 13:34-35;15:5-11). The first commandment with a promise is to honor your father and mother that it may go well with you (Ex 20:12).
 - We praise you for your plan and see your faithfulness in the world population
 - Help us to value our extended family as you value them
 - Help us to experience true forgiveness in forgiving others
 - Help us to see the foreigner as a distant relative

In Christ we are adopted into God's eternal family
In Christ you have redeemed us (Eph 1:7, Psalm 49:8, 111:9, 130:7, Luke 1:68,2:38), adopted us in your family (Eph 1:5, Gal 4:5), we've received your Spirit (John 3) and we eagerly wait for the redemption of our body (Romans 8:15,23). Through this adoption, we receive the promises given to Israelites (Romans 9:4). Thank you for all the gracious gifts you given us to live in the light and bring your message of redemption to others. In Christ we have everything needed to heal broken family relationships in our homes, church and community. Give us grace to follow where you lead. In Jesus name.

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Whoever would draw near to God... those who seek him (Why we pray)

Preparing for NDofP this week, came across this great help from https://www.nationaldayofprayer.net

Worship and praise is prayer, not just confession of sins and repentance. God receives our requests, we learn His will as we seek His help. He gives us grace and peace as a result of believing in him through prayer. Prayer plays a part in bringing others to faith in Christ. Prayer can heal nations and grant us the strength to endure trials. The best scripture that comes to my mind is Heb 11:1,6

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen...And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

1. Instructed to pray:  Matthew 5:44,Matthew 6:5,Romans 12:12,1 Thessalonians 5:17,James 5:16
2. Jesus prayed regularly: Luke 11:1,John 17,Matthew 11:25-26,Luke 3:21,Luke 5:16,Luke 6:12,Luke 9:18-28
3. Prayer is communication with God. : Philippians 4:6,1 Thessalonians 5:17
4. Through prayer, God allows us to participate in His works: Isaiah 40:29-31,Hebrews 4:15-16,2 Chronicles 7:14
5. Prayer gives us power over evil: Mark 9:29,1 Timothy 4:8,Matthew 26:41 
6. Prayer is always available to us: Psalm 139:7,Romans 8:38-39
7. Prayer keeps us humble before God: Jeremiah 32:17,John 15:5,Romans 8:28,1 Peter 5:5-7,Colossians 3:12,James 4:6-7
8. Prayer grants us the privilege of experiencing God, our faith is experiential: Acts 1:3,Acts 26:25,John 14:16-17
9. Answered prayer is an incredible witness to unbelievers: James 5:16,Colossians 4:2
10. Prayer strengthens our bond of love with one another: Jude 20,1 Timothy 2:1-2,1 John 5:15-16
11. Prayer brings success: Proverbs 3:5-6,1 Chronicles 16:11,James 5:13-15

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Bible study without prayer is light without heat

I love all the tools we have at our disposal for study, analysis, and learning. I'm preparing for the National Day of Prayer and have been focusing on the family. I've thought about the real struggles we all have in family and the many Biblical examples of family dynamics. As Christians, we are "brothers and sisters in Christ". We also have a family "in law" and "extended family" and "friends as close as blood family".

Believers frozen in wickedness
I've been thinking about words Jesus said, "Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold" Matthew 24:12 NIV. The love Jesus is talking about is Agape Love, God's love - the Churches love and that it will grow COLD for MOST. And the love of most grows cold because of increase of WICKEDNESS.

What is wickedness? The verses before tells us Matthew 24:10-11
At that time many will fall away and will betray and hate one another, and many false prophets will arise and mislead many.
 - In the old days, people would gather to hear prophets, today we turn on the t.v. or the radio or internet media.
 - To fall away is to have at one time believed God, then by listening (or being led) to another, you go another way, resulting in betrayal and hating one another.

Matthew 24:13
But the one who perseveres to the end will be saved.

1 John 2, is awesome when thinking "how can I persevere?"

At the same time, it is a new commandment that I am writing to you, which is true in him and in you, because the darkness is passing away and the true light is already shining. Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling (John 15:4, Galatians 5:22-23). But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes. 1 John 2:8-11

True Light is already shining
Think of all the light we have in the world. We light every street, every building and the light is not fire - it has no heat. I'm reminded of the sun, that even a blind person can know they are in the sun. The heat lets you know you are in the presence of this great day light. Just like abiding in Christ, being in him we can know it by the fruit of our heart and mind. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.

Be Guided by the Spirit
The Lord led his people out of Egypt in a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, he gave the church "flaming tongues" at Pentecost after the resurrection of Jesus. The Holy Spirit guides us in all truth, we "trust and obey" as we walk with both legs, to be guided in truth is to listen learn and experience the truth. We do this and it goes well for us in life, work and ministry.

Question: "What does it mean that the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:12)?

Jesus last words of first importance
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35 ESV

1 John 2:7, 8; 3:11; 2 John 5; John 15:12, 17; 1 John 3:23; 4:21; Lev. 19:18; Rom. 13:8; Col. 3:14; 1 Thess. 4:9; 1 Tim. 1:5; 1 Pet. 1:22; Eph. 5:2; 1 John 4:10, 11

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Know that prayer changes things

Years ago (2005), I had the opportunity to be mentored by Daniel Henderson because my brother in law invited me to a leadership training meeting at my church. We read several books and discussed what they meant and how we would apply the teaching as leaders of ourselves, families, church and work. It was life giving and life changing to participate with such a group of godly men. Daniel now works full time to mentor pastors and congregation on the strategic renewal of prayer ministry.

On my flight home yesterday from a weekend of prayer ministry with my other brother in law I watched this excellent teaching on the power of prayer from the perspective of misunderstandings people have about the Sovereignty of God and Immutability of God.
 - In God's sovereignty, he's given us authority
 - God does repent/relent - in other words, he's immutability is of character not of mind.

Pastor Morris does a good job showing scriptures that support the truth that we when we pray and truly repent (not just confess), God will change the direction and relent from the curses that were previously brought upon our lives. Think of when we are saved, everyone is on a path to hell - when we receive Jesus as Lord and Savior, God relents from that plan and includes us in his Sovereign plan of redemption. We are "grafted in" and "adopted", his Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are saved. We've given our lives over to God, we are his property. Similarly, when we cast our cares upon the Lord, we should leave that prayer without those cares - otherwise, we've just spent our prayer time complaining to God. When you've understood the power and purpose of prayer - you'll have confidence at the end of your time with God that he's received your cares and given you "the tailor-made grace for everything you face" - Daniel Henderson.

Videos below have practical, helpful teaching to grow in maturity and faith. God bless you!
Power of Prayer

Purpose of Prayer

Why keep praying

Let the church pray with you
http://gatewaypeople.com/ministries/prayer/request-prayer
http://www.grace.church/submit-prayer-request-0

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Prayer for Media

Jesus you said that my eye is the lamp of my body. When my eye is healthy, my whole body is full of light, but when it is bad, my body is full of darkness. Lord help us to have eyes that are healthy, so that our whole body will be full of light (Luke 11:34 ESV; Matthew 6:22-23 ESV )

Father you have given us every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms, that we can test everything; Help us to hold fast what is good and abstain from every form of evil (Ephesians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 ESV)

Lord strengthen your people so that we will set no worthless or wicked thing before our eyes. That the practice of those who fall away from the right path would not grasp hold of us. Cleanse us Lord, renew in our heart the joy of your salvation and remove perversity from our hearts, in Jesus Name (Psalm 101:3-4 AMP; Psalm 53:1-5 NLT; Psalm 51:1-17, 12)

In social media, Lord we know bad company ruins good morals and you have warned us not to follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. Thank you for watching over the path of the godly, and warning us the path of the wicked leads to destruction (1 Corinthians 15:33 ESV; Psalm 1:1-6).

In our written words in posting and email help us to hold our tongue and respond to strangers, friends, family and coworkers with gentleness, humility, and respect. We know we are sinners and as you forgave us we forgive others (James 3:5-11 ESV...)

Let our words be life-giving, beautiful and sweet. Let us be salt that changes the bland to delicious. Let us refresh those around us as living water, that is given without charge. Let those who are thirsty come and know the Lord. The Creator of Heaven and earth and everything in the earth. (...). Let your people be known as those who publish peace, who brings the good news of happiness, who publishes salvation (Isaiah 52:7 ESV).

Let us addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with our heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (Ephesians 5:19-20 ESV)

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things (Philippians 4:8 ESV)

AMEN

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Spirit lead, scripture fed prayer of Condoleezza Rice

My sister posted this prayer by Condoleezza Rice on Facebook and I was immediately struck by scriptures she was praying. 1 Peter 4:11 came to my mind (though she didn't say this one), I wanted to document the scripture I heard invoked along with timings of the video. Condoleezza certainly has the gift of speaking and in this example speaks as though God himself were speaking through her. She is helping others with all the strength and energy that God supplies and in this prayer she brings glory to God through Jesus Christ. Here's the scriptures and video of Condoleezza praying for our nation.

A Prayer for Our Nation | Condoleezza Rice from Menlo.Church on Vimeo.

.09 Pray together as a church 

• Hebrews 10:24-25 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another–and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
• Matthew 18:19-20 - "If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”
• 1 John 5:14-15 - "And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for."

.16 Bow your heads and seek repose 

• Philippians 2:5-8 "Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus..."
• James 4:10 "Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord..."
• 1 Peter 3:8 "Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble."

.20 seek the peace that passes understanding

• Philippians 4:4-7 verse 7: "Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus."

.26 heavenly father we come to you with heavy hearts

• Matthew 6:9-13 "Pray then like this: 'Our Father in heaven hallowed be your name..."
• Psalm 34:18;147:3 "Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit"; "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds"

.35 knowing we can always count on you, we are so grateful as a people and as a church

• Philippians 4:6 "do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
• 1 Thessalonians 5:18 "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

.46 to have a friend in you

• James 2:22-23 "You see that his faith was working with his actions, and his faith was perfected by what he did. And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “- Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called a friend of God. "

.51 we can bring all of our concerns, trials and tribulations 

• 1 Peter 5:6-7 "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you. Cast all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you."

.57 we pray for the victims of the violence

• Romans 12:15 "...weep with those who weep."

1.21 protect those who protect us

• 1 Peter 2:13-14 "...sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good."

1.40 we acknowledge our dark past

• Jeremiah 14:20 "We know our wickedness, O LORD, The iniquity of our fathers, for we have sinned against You."

2.02 wounds and pain and stain still linger today - shadows our relationships

• James 5:16 "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail. "

2.18 we don't want that division

• Philippians 2:2 "Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind."
• 1 Peter 3:8 "Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."

2.30 we turn to you for answers

• Colossians 4:6 "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."

2.50 we pray for guidance and wisdom...for our leaders and everyone of us

• Psalm 25:1-22 verse 8-9 "Because the Lord is righteous and good, he teaches sinners the path they should follow. He leads the humble in the right way and teaches them his will."

3:00 justified by faith

• Romans 3:22,26-28,30; 5:1,9,18;10:10 "We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are."; "There is only one God, and he makes people right with himself only by faith"; "we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us."; "by openly declaring your faith that you are saved"

3:10 Secure and confident in your deep love for us

• John 3:16-18;5:24 "For this is how God loved the world: He gave[a] his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.";"There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son"; "those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life."

3:20 We will go out in the world with your peace, reconciliation and your love

3:30 that we can be blessing to one another as you have blessed us

3:40 we ask these things in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

Bible verses about praying together
Attitudes Of Humility
How-to-become-a-christian
What are practical ways to depend on God alone?
James 2:23 - Friend of God
What does the Bible say about government?
Do we need to confess our sins to those we have sinned against?
Acknowledge, Sin
Causes of Suffering
Unity and Love

Why is justification by faith such an important doctrine?

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National Day of Prayer for Government

You are with us here Lord, We know Christ intercedes on our behalf and the Holy Spirit pleads for us in harmony with Your will. Help us Lord when we don’t know what to pray. We confess our sins and you are faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from unrighteousness. We humbly come before you God and seek your face.

We come to you to pray for the Government, that you would help those who serve in all branches. Specifically the executive branch, thank you for the peaceful transition of power you’ve blessed our people with. We thank you for the Legislative branch for the Senate and the House of Representatives. There are many who work long hours doing good work for our nation, world and the future generations.

Each of us is blessed with peaceful, quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity – we are grateful for the religious freedoms we have to share the good news of eternal life and redemption in Christ you’ve given to us. May you be glorified in our lives and let us share Christ boldly with all in our government.

We believe in one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity – the man Christ Jesus. Jesus you gave your life to purchase freedom for everyone and now we cast our anxieties and cares on you regarding the elections and the judicial branch of government.

We will submit to the government and its officers, knowing that all authority comes from you God and those in positions of authority have been placed there by you. Help us to always be ready to do what is good, to not slander anyone and avoid quarreling. We repent from these actions and attitudes so present in our government and ask for your power in us to be gentle and truly humble to everyone.

Lord God, give us the clothing of tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience as we trust in you, remembering that you forgave us, so we must forgive others.

Lord we are deeply troubled by the moral decline we see in our government and ask for your mercy on us.  Give us justices who will stand for life, abolish human abortion, who will not allow assisted suicide and protect the vulnerable from “mercy killing”. We know those killed unjustly cry out to you as Abel cried out from the ground and the souls of the martyrs cry out to you, even now.

Thank you for the godly examples of leadership in your word for government officials to follow. Let the government officials be as faithful, responsible and trustworthy as Daniel, always seeking the welfare of the cities they govern. Like Joseph using their power and influence wisely.

You are completely sovereign over all governments of the world.  You have revealed yourself to us through your word and through nature. You are the God of our fathers and your name is blessed forever and ever. Even as we are praying you are showing us your plan of redemption. We are the holy nation of God, called out of darkness into his marvelous light. We look forward to your eternal government to come as Isaiah said your government and its peace will never end. And there will be no more death and corruption.

Back ground info, scripture basis for prayer

Verse	Word (NLT)	Prayer
Matthew 18:20	For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”	You are with us here Lord, We know Christ intercedes on our behalf and the Holy Spirit pleads for us in harmony with God’s will. Help us Lord when we don’t know what to pray. We confess our sins and you are faithful to forgive us and cleanse us from unrighteousness
Hebrews 7:5	Therefore He is able also to save forever those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them
Romans 8:26-27	And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. 27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers[a] in harmony with God’s own will.
1 John 1:9	If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
2 Chronicles 7:14	If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.	We humbly come before you God and seek your face.
1 Timothy 2:1-6	I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. 2 Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. 3 This is good and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. 5 For, There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. 6 He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time.	We come to you to pray for the Government, that you would help those who serve in all branches. Specifically the executive branch, thank you for the peaceful transition of power you’ve blessed our people with. We thank you for the Legislative branch for the Senate and the House of Representatives. There are many who work long hours doing good work for our nation, world and the next generation. Each of us is blessed with peaceful, quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity – we are grateful for the religious freedoms we have to share the good news of eternal life and redemption in Christ you’ve given to us. May you be glorified in our lives and let us share Christ boldly with all governing bodies. We believe in one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity – the man Christ Jesus. Jesus you gave your life to purchase freedom for everyone and now we cast our anxieties and cares on you regarding the elections and the judicial branch of government.
1 Peter 5:7	Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.
Titus 3:1-2	Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good. 2 They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.	We will submit to the government and its officers, knowing that all authority comes from God and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. Help us to always be ready to do what is good, to not slander anyone and avoid quarreling. We repent from these actions and attitudes so present in our government and ask for your power in us to be gentle and truly humble to everyone.
Romans 13:1-7	Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. 2 So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. 3 For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. 4 The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. 5 So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience. 6 Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.
Colossians 3:12-14	Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.	Lord God, give us the clothing of tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience as we trust in you, remembering that you forgave us, so we must forgive others.
Proverbs 28:2	When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise and knowledgeable leaders bring stability.	Lord we are deeply troubled by the moral decline we see in our government and ask for your mercy on us.  Give us justices who will stand for life, abolish human abortion, who will not allow assisted suicide and protect the vulnerable from “mercy killing”
Gen 4:8-11	One day Cain suggested to his brother, “Let’s go out into the fields.” And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother, Abel, and killed him. 9 Afterward the Lord asked Cain, “Where is your brother? Where is Abel?” “I don’t know,” Cain responded. “Am I my brother’s guardian?” 10 But the Lord said, “What have you done? Listen! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground! 11 Now you are cursed and banished from the ground, which has swallowed your brother’s blood.	We know those killed unjustly cry out to you as Abel cried out from the ground and the souls of the martyrs cry out to you.
Rev 6:9-11	When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of all who had been martyred for the word of God and for being faithful in their testimony. 10 They shouted to the Lord and said, “O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long before you judge the people who belong to this world and avenge our blood for what they have done to us?” 11 Then a white robe was given to each of them. And they were told to rest a little longer until the full number of their brothers and sisters[a]—their fellow servants of Jesus who were to be martyred—had joined them.
1 Kings 9:22	But Solomon did not conscript any of the Israelites for forced labor. Instead, he assigned them to serve as fighting men, government officials, officers and captains in his army, commanders of his chariots, and charioteers.	Thank you for the godly examples of leadership in your word for government officials to follow.
Daniel 6:4	Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy.	Let the government officials be as faithful, responsible and trustworthy as Daniel, always seeking the welfare of the cities they govern.
Jeremiah 29:7	But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.
1 Peter 2:17	Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.	You are completely sovereign over all governments of the world.  You have revealed yourself to us through your word and through nature. You are the God of our fathers and your name is blessed forever and ever.
Daniel 2:20-23	Daniel answered and said: “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; he reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him. To you, O God of my fathers, I give thanks and praise, for you have given me wisdom and might, and have now made known to me what we asked of you, for you have made known to us the king's matter.”
Job 12:23-25	He makes nations great, and he destroys them; he enlarges nations, and leads them away. He takes away understanding from the chiefs of the people of the earth and makes them wander in a pathless waste. They grope in the dark without light, and he makes them stagger like a drunken man.
Deepest prayer Daniel 9:3-19 Answered Daniel 9:20-23	12 You have kept your word and done to us and our rulers exactly as you warned. Never has there been such a disaster as happened in Jerusalem. 13 Every curse written against us in the Law of Moses has come true. Yet we have refused to seek mercy from the Lord our God by turning from our sins and recognizing his truth. 14 Therefore, the Lord has brought upon us the disaster he prepared. The Lord our God was right to do all of these things, for we did not obey him. while I was speaking in prayer, the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision at the first, came to me in swift flight at the time	Even as we are praying you are showing us your plan of redemption
1 Peter 2:9	But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.	We are the holy nation of God, called out of darkness into his marvelous light.
Philippians 2:14	Do all things without grumbling or questioning,
Isaiah 9:6-7	For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen!	We look forward to your eternal government to come as Isaiah said your government and its peace will never end.
Revelation 11:15	Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.”
Rev 20:11-15	11 And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. 12 I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up its dead, and death and the grave[b] gave up their dead. And all were judged according to their deeds. 14 Then death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. 15 And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.	And there will be no more death and corruption.

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http://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-interceding.html

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