"Pray without ceasing" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Father, as we celebrate this day of thanksgiving please help us to see that all we have, all we enjoy, and all hope comes from you.
PR: Father, as we end these forty days of prayer, we thank you for the commitment of all those who have participated. We thank you for all of our prayers you have answered in the past. We praise you for all the prayers you will answer in the future. We thank you for inviting us to turn our cares into prayers and to bring them to you. We praise you for providing this means of communication and allowing us to share our concerns with you.
SG: Father, help us to maintain the discipline of our devotion to you; to continue to come before your throne daily; to remain dependent on you day by day for our every need. Help us, Father, to grow spiritually as a result of these forty days, and to deepen our faith and love for you.
________
SUNRISE PRAYER
GOD, make us as the sun. Let the light of your love shine through us. Let your joy shoot from our bodies so we are shining.
Let us take your love into a world of darkness. There are so many people out there who are lost and waiting for someone to light the way. On this new day, make us your servants, God.
Let people look to us for light. The sun shines on everybody, Lord. Anyone can stand in its warmth and see by its light. Make us like the sun, God.
Help us to be worthy of the job. When people look to us, let us show them the light of your love. Let us light the path so that they can find you, too. Amen
-Steven L. Case
Thursday, November 28, 2013
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
DAY 39 (WED 11/27)
"Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know your labor in the Lord is not in vain" - 1 Corinthians 15:58
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Today we ask God's blessings on Gary and Cindy Anzalone as they teach our class for youth parents this evening.
MN: Pray today for all of the missionaries whose work we support, as they share the good news of God's grace in difficult fields. Pray that we ALL will see ourselves as missionaries in the field God has placed us in. Seek wisdom and guidance from God as He uses us to grow His Kingdom.
CF: Father, we know that we often make poor use of our time, and when we do we waste our days in worldly and trivial pursuits. Help us to be more disciplined, that we might be more effective in our discipleship. Help us to make the most of every opportunity. And help us to order our priorities in such a way that you become who we are. Then in everything we do and every decision we make we will glorify your name.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Today we ask God's blessings on Gary and Cindy Anzalone as they teach our class for youth parents this evening.
MN: Pray today for all of the missionaries whose work we support, as they share the good news of God's grace in difficult fields. Pray that we ALL will see ourselves as missionaries in the field God has placed us in. Seek wisdom and guidance from God as He uses us to grow His Kingdom.
CF: Father, we know that we often make poor use of our time, and when we do we waste our days in worldly and trivial pursuits. Help us to be more disciplined, that we might be more effective in our discipleship. Help us to make the most of every opportunity. And help us to order our priorities in such a way that you become who we are. Then in everything we do and every decision we make we will glorify your name.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
DAY 38 (TUES 11/26)
"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands" - Psalm 19:1
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: Father, we praise you today for your awesome creation: for giving us so many glimpses of your glory in the beauty of nature around us; for making a fruitful world which abundantly provides for our every need; and for creating us, even though you knew, in advance, how ungrateful we can be.
SG: We ask, Lord, for more faith to rely on You. Help us to seek Your guidance first, rather than trying to rely on our own strength and wisdom and only turning to You after we messed our life up. Give us more faith, Father, that we might walk with You in trust and confidence each day, instead of seeking your help only in a time of crisis.
IN: Father, we commit the future of our young people into your hands for safekeeping. We especially pray that you would be raising up, even now, a future Christian mate for them, a partner with whom they may one day establish a Christian home. We pray that they might be encouraged to purity by the assurance that you are working to honor the desires of their heart.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: Father, we praise you today for your awesome creation: for giving us so many glimpses of your glory in the beauty of nature around us; for making a fruitful world which abundantly provides for our every need; and for creating us, even though you knew, in advance, how ungrateful we can be.
SG: We ask, Lord, for more faith to rely on You. Help us to seek Your guidance first, rather than trying to rely on our own strength and wisdom and only turning to You after we messed our life up. Give us more faith, Father, that we might walk with You in trust and confidence each day, instead of seeking your help only in a time of crisis.
IN: Father, we commit the future of our young people into your hands for safekeeping. We especially pray that you would be raising up, even now, a future Christian mate for them, a partner with whom they may one day establish a Christian home. We pray that they might be encouraged to purity by the assurance that you are working to honor the desires of their heart.
Monday, November 25, 2013
DAY 37 (MON 11/25)
Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity" - Colossians 4:5
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
MN: Pray today for our outreach efforts this week; for
our meals that were delivered yesterday, the Grief Recovery Class, the Sewing for the Master Ministry, those who invite others to worship, to a Growth Group, or to a personal Bible study; for the unsaved who are now considering the claims of Christ, and who are faced with their decision about whether to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
IN: Pray for those individuals whose names were on yesterday's prayer list: for the sick, the grieving, and the shut-ins. We pray for healing, comfort, and strength for all those who are unwell.
SG: Father, make us more sensitive to the needs of others, and especially of those people who are lonely, lost, and left out in society. We know that Jesus always showed his love and compassion to those who were overlooked- help us to be more like Jesus in our attitudes towards the disadvantaged, the poor, and the powerless.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
MN: Pray today for our outreach efforts this week; for
our meals that were delivered yesterday, the Grief Recovery Class, the Sewing for the Master Ministry, those who invite others to worship, to a Growth Group, or to a personal Bible study; for the unsaved who are now considering the claims of Christ, and who are faced with their decision about whether to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
IN: Pray for those individuals whose names were on yesterday's prayer list: for the sick, the grieving, and the shut-ins. We pray for healing, comfort, and strength for all those who are unwell.
SG: Father, make us more sensitive to the needs of others, and especially of those people who are lonely, lost, and left out in society. We know that Jesus always showed his love and compassion to those who were overlooked- help us to be more like Jesus in our attitudes towards the disadvantaged, the poor, and the powerless.
Sunday, November 24, 2013
DAY 36 (SUN 11/24)
"Because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf" - 1 Corinthians 10:17
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank you, Father, for the honor of gathering around the Lord's table today, that we might celebrate your son and the salvation he brings to each of us. We pray that this communion will be a daily reminder that we are the Body of Christ, united with him and with each other.
CF: Father, we recognize that we often allow our worship to become routine. Help us, this day, to gain a sense of Your presence through our worship. Build a desire within us to long for your presence and to be overcome by the praise you so deeply deserve. Forgive us, Father, for just being present, just speaking the words, and just saying the right things.
MN: Father, we pray that you will bless the meals that will be distributed by our Foundations class today! Thank you, Lord, for all those who have given so freely to make this ministry of blessing possible. Father, fill the deliverers with grace and love that will be evident to all those who are receiving the meals from them.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank you, Father, for the honor of gathering around the Lord's table today, that we might celebrate your son and the salvation he brings to each of us. We pray that this communion will be a daily reminder that we are the Body of Christ, united with him and with each other.
CF: Father, we recognize that we often allow our worship to become routine. Help us, this day, to gain a sense of Your presence through our worship. Build a desire within us to long for your presence and to be overcome by the praise you so deeply deserve. Forgive us, Father, for just being present, just speaking the words, and just saying the right things.
MN: Father, we pray that you will bless the meals that will be distributed by our Foundations class today! Thank you, Lord, for all those who have given so freely to make this ministry of blessing possible. Father, fill the deliverers with grace and love that will be evident to all those who are receiving the meals from them.
Saturday, November 23, 2013
DAY 35 (SAT 11/23)
"Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus"- Ephesians 6:24
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray today especially for those who must come to church alone because they have been widowed or have been abandoned by their mates. Bless them, Father, and grant that they might find a place of welcome in this church family. We thank God for the growth of our "Single on Sunday" class and pray that it might continue its good work.
IN: We thank You, Father, for the loving care provided to small children in our nursery during each service, and pray that You would bless the work of all the sweet ladies who serve in this ministry. We pray, Father, for our children's ministries that will meet tomorrow afternoon and for all those dedicated workers who staff them. We especially ask your blessings on Chris Reaves as he directs the Junior High Open Door group.
MN: We thank God for the many guests who visit our worship services each week, and pray that we might be missionaries in our congregation by extending a genuine welcome to them.
THE SERENITY PRAYER
The “Serenity Prayer” has been prayed by millions since it first appeared in the 1930’s:
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
It has been used in Alcoholics Anonymous since 1941. In 1953 William Spence added a section:
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
As it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
If I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life
And supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next.
At some meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, the line "Just for today" is added to the end of the prayer, in keeping with the statement of Jesus in Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray today especially for those who must come to church alone because they have been widowed or have been abandoned by their mates. Bless them, Father, and grant that they might find a place of welcome in this church family. We thank God for the growth of our "Single on Sunday" class and pray that it might continue its good work.
IN: We thank You, Father, for the loving care provided to small children in our nursery during each service, and pray that You would bless the work of all the sweet ladies who serve in this ministry. We pray, Father, for our children's ministries that will meet tomorrow afternoon and for all those dedicated workers who staff them. We especially ask your blessings on Chris Reaves as he directs the Junior High Open Door group.
MN: We thank God for the many guests who visit our worship services each week, and pray that we might be missionaries in our congregation by extending a genuine welcome to them.
THE SERENITY PRAYER
The “Serenity Prayer” has been prayed by millions since it first appeared in the 1930’s:
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
It has been used in Alcoholics Anonymous since 1941. In 1953 William Spence added a section:
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
As it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
If I surrender to His Will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life
And supremely happy with Him
Forever and ever in the next.
At some meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous, the line "Just for today" is added to the end of the prayer, in keeping with the statement of Jesus in Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Friday, November 22, 2013
DAY 34 (FRI 11/22)
"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit" - Ephesians 5:18
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank You for the power and presence of your Holy Spirit, and His sanctifying work in our hearts..
IN: As the weekend approaches we know many here in Union County will be seeking fulfillment in a bottle or at a bar. We pray, O God, that You will redirect their hearts to find true satisfaction in being filled with your Spirit. Until then, we ask that You enable the police to be successful in keeping the intoxicated off the streets.
MN: We thank you, Father, for all those who work with our Recovery Ministry. We pray also for the staff of the South Arkansas Substance Abuse Center. Bless the work of everyone who assists in these vital programs.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank You for the power and presence of your Holy Spirit, and His sanctifying work in our hearts..
IN: As the weekend approaches we know many here in Union County will be seeking fulfillment in a bottle or at a bar. We pray, O God, that You will redirect their hearts to find true satisfaction in being filled with your Spirit. Until then, we ask that You enable the police to be successful in keeping the intoxicated off the streets.
MN: We thank you, Father, for all those who work with our Recovery Ministry. We pray also for the staff of the South Arkansas Substance Abuse Center. Bless the work of everyone who assists in these vital programs.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
DAY 33 (THUR 11/21)
"Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." - Psalm 51:12
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Restore to us the joy of Your salvation, that we might continue to serve You with even more gladness; remind us, God, of the wonder we felt when we first realized that Jesus died for us, taking OUR place on that cross; help us to recall the terror of feeling our lostness, that we might once again feel the relief of being saved. We pray for revival: make our old, calloused hearts tender once again, that we might give You the joyful praise You deserve.
IN: We pray today for those Christians who were once faithful, but who have now wandered away from the Lord and no longer are practicing their faith. We pray, Father, that You will touch their hearts, and that we might have the opportunity to speak a word of concern to them, that they might be restored to Your grace.
MN: We are thankful for the work of Gail Albritton and Joan Holmes in our church office, and ask God to bless them as they support our ministries and represent our congregation to the many folks from the community who call or visit our offices.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Restore to us the joy of Your salvation, that we might continue to serve You with even more gladness; remind us, God, of the wonder we felt when we first realized that Jesus died for us, taking OUR place on that cross; help us to recall the terror of feeling our lostness, that we might once again feel the relief of being saved. We pray for revival: make our old, calloused hearts tender once again, that we might give You the joyful praise You deserve.
IN: We pray today for those Christians who were once faithful, but who have now wandered away from the Lord and no longer are practicing their faith. We pray, Father, that You will touch their hearts, and that we might have the opportunity to speak a word of concern to them, that they might be restored to Your grace.
MN: We are thankful for the work of Gail Albritton and Joan Holmes in our church office, and ask God to bless them as they support our ministries and represent our congregation to the many folks from the community who call or visit our offices.
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
DAY 32 (WED 11/20)
"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners- of whom I am the worst.....but by the grace of God, I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect."
- 1 Timothy 1:15, 1 Corinthians 15:10
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Father, help us to be more honest in our prayer life. Remind us, Lord, that we can't fool You, anyway, so there's no sense in trying to pretend to be something that we're not when we talk to You. Dear God, today we bring our weaknesses before You. Help us to learn from our sins that we are absolutely dependent on Your grace, and when we have learned to trust in You, enable us to see Your grace at work in our lives.
IN: We pray for parents who are raising their children in a society saturated with sensuality, violence, and greed. Bless our homes, Father, that in them we might create a counter-culture based on Christian values. Bless the ministries of this church that they might strengthen and support the work of godly parents.
- 1 Timothy 1:15, 1 Corinthians 15:10
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Father, help us to be more honest in our prayer life. Remind us, Lord, that we can't fool You, anyway, so there's no sense in trying to pretend to be something that we're not when we talk to You. Dear God, today we bring our weaknesses before You. Help us to learn from our sins that we are absolutely dependent on Your grace, and when we have learned to trust in You, enable us to see Your grace at work in our lives.
IN: We pray for parents who are raising their children in a society saturated with sensuality, violence, and greed. Bless our homes, Father, that in them we might create a counter-culture based on Christian values. Bless the ministries of this church that they might strengthen and support the work of godly parents.
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
DAY 31 (TUES 11/19)
"Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other" - Galatians 5:25-26
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: We ask today that the fruits of the Spirit might grow in us. Help us to be willing to yield to Your Spirit, Father, so that we might increase in love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, and faith.
CF: We confess that we sometimes judge people by their external appearance, rather than their hearts. Help us, God, to see others as You see them.
MN: Lord, please bless all our Bible class teachers as they prepare their class for tomorrow night, that they might communicate God's Word effectively and faithfully. We pray for our education deacon Lewis Whatley, his wife Carol, and Jason Baker as they work with our Education program.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: We ask today that the fruits of the Spirit might grow in us. Help us to be willing to yield to Your Spirit, Father, so that we might increase in love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, and faith.
CF: We confess that we sometimes judge people by their external appearance, rather than their hearts. Help us, God, to see others as You see them.
MN: Lord, please bless all our Bible class teachers as they prepare their class for tomorrow night, that they might communicate God's Word effectively and faithfully. We pray for our education deacon Lewis Whatley, his wife Carol, and Jason Baker as they work with our Education program.
Monday, November 18, 2013
DAY 30 (MON 11/18)
"How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?" - Psalm 13:1
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Father, we confess that sometimes You seem so far away from us, and the sense of Your presence we felt on Sunday morning in the assembly somehow has evaporated by the time we go to work on Monday. Dear God, in those times when our feelings are fading, we pray for revival. Remind us of Your past blessings, strengthen our commitment, and refresh our spirit.
IN: We pray today for the teachers in all of the schools here in Union County. Grant them wisdom and patience as
they instruct their students and bless their work as they develop the minds and lives of young people.
IN: We pray today for the poor in our community, and especially for those children who are destitute because they have been abandoned by one or more of their parents. We especially ask that you would lead us to ways to be a blessing to them.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Father, we confess that sometimes You seem so far away from us, and the sense of Your presence we felt on Sunday morning in the assembly somehow has evaporated by the time we go to work on Monday. Dear God, in those times when our feelings are fading, we pray for revival. Remind us of Your past blessings, strengthen our commitment, and refresh our spirit.
IN: We pray today for the teachers in all of the schools here in Union County. Grant them wisdom and patience as
they instruct their students and bless their work as they develop the minds and lives of young people.
IN: We pray today for the poor in our community, and especially for those children who are destitute because they have been abandoned by one or more of their parents. We especially ask that you would lead us to ways to be a blessing to them.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
DAY 29 (SUN 11/17)
"I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you" - John 17:20
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray today for the church of Jesus Christ. As followers of Jesus assemble around the world in his name today, we know that the Lord is grieved by personal disputes and denominational doctrines that divide believers.
We pray that we might be more successful in our goal of following Christ rather than the traditions of men, and might be able to communicate that goal more clearly. We pray that we might more perfectly strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Help us to remember to exhibit true love for every sincere believer, while also seeking common ground for all believers on the Word of God, and it only. Enable us to model, in our own lives and in our mutual relationships, that unity for which Jesus prayed.
MN: Ask God's blessings today on the work of Grief Recovery Class, and on Jenny Duncan, Karen Langston, and Gay White as they lead it.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray today for the church of Jesus Christ. As followers of Jesus assemble around the world in his name today, we know that the Lord is grieved by personal disputes and denominational doctrines that divide believers.
We pray that we might be more successful in our goal of following Christ rather than the traditions of men, and might be able to communicate that goal more clearly. We pray that we might more perfectly strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Help us to remember to exhibit true love for every sincere believer, while also seeking common ground for all believers on the Word of God, and it only. Enable us to model, in our own lives and in our mutual relationships, that unity for which Jesus prayed.
MN: Ask God's blessings today on the work of Grief Recovery Class, and on Jenny Duncan, Karen Langston, and Gay White as they lead it.
Saturday, November 16, 2013
DAY 28 (SAT 11/16)
"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and
admonish one another with all wisdom" - Colossians 3:16
PR: We praise God today for His Word, which convicts our soul and directs
our path. We pray that we will be open to God as He speaks to us in His Word in
the worship assembly tomorrow.
SG: Father, we ask that each of us longs for true riches which only come
from you. Thank you for your Spirit that dwells within us. Father, give us the
guidance we need to see that our true riches come from you alone and not from
this world.
MN: Pray for our Growth Groups as they meet tomorrow. Pray that they
might be a blessing of fellowship and spiritual growth for our members and also
those who are visiting.
Friday, November 15, 2013
DAY 27 (FRI 11/15)
"Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!"- 2 Corinthians
9:15
PR: We praise God today for our own salvation; for the assurance that
the blood of Jesus cleanses us of all sins.
CF: Search us, O God; examine our hearts and innermost thoughts; convict
us of wrong and cleanse us of secret sins, that we might love and serve You more
fully.
MN: Ask the Lord to bless those members of our church family who are
struggling with addictions to alcohol, drugs, gambling, or pornography. We pray
that they might be willing to accept help; that they might seek the power of
God's Holy Spirit to resist tempations; and that they might experience victory
over the destructive power of these sins. We also ask God's blessing on all our
members who are ministering at the Recovery Center.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
DAY 26 (THUR 11/14)
"You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous
on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to
God" - 2 Corinthians 9:11
SG: Father, make us more generous, and less grudging, when we offer our
gifts to you. Help us to be cheerful givers so that we might be doubly blessed
with continued prosperity AND spiritual riches. Open our eyes to new
opportunities of service that we might experience the joy in sharing our
blessings with others.
CF: We confess that we are not always as bold as we should be in speaking
up for Christ; that we have not always taken the opportunities given us by God
to share our faith. Give us more courage and more compassion for those who are
unsaved.
IN: Ask God's blessings today on the older members of our church family,
that they might continue to be examples to us in faith, hope, and love. We pray
the Lord will bless them physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
DAY 25 (WED 11/13)
"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world" - Galatians 6:14
PR: We praise God today for the Cross of Christ, which convicts us of the sinfulness of sin while assuring us of the Lord's love for us.
SG: We ask for greater courage and boldness to speak up for Biblical truths in a society that is becoming increasingly hostile toward Christian values.
MN: Ask the Lord to bless Katie and Kelcey Simpson as they teach English to students in China. Pray that these young women will be able to reach the lost through their Christ-like spirits and the lessons they are teaching.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
DAY 24 (TUES 11/12)
"Be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints" -
Ephesians 6:18
CF: Father, we admit to you that we are often too lazy, busy, or
distracted to truly focus on you. Forgive us for going through the motions when
we pray; for forgetting that we stand in your awesome presence; and for
allowing our minds to wander untamed during our prayer time.
SG: We humbly ask you to bless our prayer life; to make us more
disciplined in our devotion; to help us to be more dependent on your power, and
more aware of your presence in our life today.
IN: Through the discipline of prayer we seek to be a people alert to our
surroundings. We ask that you open our eyes and hearts to the spiritual needs
of those we come in contact with on a daily basis.
Monday, November 11, 2013
DAY 23 (MON 11/11)
"I urge...that requests, prayers, intercession and
thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we
may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" - 1 Timothy
2:1-2
IN: We pray today for the leaders of our nation; that they might be
God-fearing men and women; that they will lead our nation towards greater
security and peace; that they will make decisions that are just and right.
MN: Pray today for our youth and family ministry. We especially pray that
our young people will have the strength, the wisdom, and the desire to withstand
the temptations they face each day and that they will find the proper examples
to follow in us.
MN: Pray that our Passion for Purity teachers (Amy Turbeville, Magen
Olive, Leanne Harrell, Chris Reaves, Paul Choate, Mark Moore, Jason and Melissa
Laird, Chris and Lori Ann Yeager, and Steven and Lynsey Bates) will have energy,
wisdom, boldness, and love as they teach our youth.
DAY 22 (SUN 11/10)
"The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the
Lord of harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field"- Matthew
10:37-38
PR: Father, we thank You for Your goodness to us; for our homes, our
family, our jobs, our freedom, and most of all, our salvation. God, you have
given us so much, that we ask for only one thing more: grant us a grateful
heart, that we might always give You praise.
MN: Our shepherds ask that we pray for our missionaries worldwide: that
they will find more open doors and receptive hearts and that we will never
neglect our biggest mission- our own backyard.
CF: Father, we confess that we often fail to speak up when we have
opportunities to share our faith. Give us boldness to speak for Christ;
compassion for the lost; and wisdom to say what we should.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
DAY 21 (SAT 11/9)
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy" - Matthew 5:7
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Today pray for wisdom, a caring spirit, and strength, so we might truly put into practice the teachings of Jesus in His Sermon on the Mount.
IN: We thank God for the many acts of Christian love and concern that come through the efforts of our Bible classes; and for the work of those who are serving as care coordinators in each of the classes.
IN: We ask your blessings today on our shut-ins, and pray especially for Bob Adcox, Bill Allen, Hazel Duggar, Phillip Gunter (son of Keith & Jamie Gunter), Josephine Lee, Penny Ralston, Jean Silliman, Geneva Sullins, Lucille Thompson, Judy Wilhelm, and Dot Winans.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Today pray for wisdom, a caring spirit, and strength, so we might truly put into practice the teachings of Jesus in His Sermon on the Mount.
IN: We thank God for the many acts of Christian love and concern that come through the efforts of our Bible classes; and for the work of those who are serving as care coordinators in each of the classes.
IN: We ask your blessings today on our shut-ins, and pray especially for Bob Adcox, Bill Allen, Hazel Duggar, Phillip Gunter (son of Keith & Jamie Gunter), Josephine Lee, Penny Ralston, Jean Silliman, Geneva Sullins, Lucille Thompson, Judy Wilhelm, and Dot Winans.
Friday, November 8, 2013
DAY 20 (FRI 11/8)
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak" - Matthew 26:41
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Today as we are half-way through our "40 Days of Prayer" we remember these words of Jesus to his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. Grant us, Father, the strength and resolve to fulfill our commitment to you in this prayer campaign.
PR: We thank God today for the answers to prayer that we have experienced, and especially for the many He has healed, both physically and spiritually.
IN: As the weekend begins we know many young people will be on the highways, traveling to football games and other activities. We ask for their safety as they travel.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Today as we are half-way through our "40 Days of Prayer" we remember these words of Jesus to his disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. Grant us, Father, the strength and resolve to fulfill our commitment to you in this prayer campaign.
PR: We thank God today for the answers to prayer that we have experienced, and especially for the many He has healed, both physically and spiritually.
IN: As the weekend begins we know many young people will be on the highways, traveling to football games and other activities. We ask for their safety as they travel.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
DAY 19 (THUR 11/7)
"Praise the Lord, O my soul; and forget not all his benefits" - Psalm 103:2
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank you today for the incredible privilege of living in this land of liberty, where we may worship freely. We pray that we might use our freedom to be salt and light in our nation and our world.
PR: Praise God today for all of His material blessings: name as many as possible. Try to give Him thanks for things you have never specifically mentioned before.
IN: We realize many of our fellow-believers around the world are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus. We pray especially for those Christians in the Middle East during this time of unrest. Keep them safe and strengthen their faith.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank you today for the incredible privilege of living in this land of liberty, where we may worship freely. We pray that we might use our freedom to be salt and light in our nation and our world.
PR: Praise God today for all of His material blessings: name as many as possible. Try to give Him thanks for things you have never specifically mentioned before.
IN: We realize many of our fellow-believers around the world are being persecuted for their faith in Jesus. We pray especially for those Christians in the Middle East during this time of unrest. Keep them safe and strengthen their faith.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
DAY 18 (WED 11/6)
"Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name" - Psalm 103:1
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank You, Father, for creating us, instructing us, saving us, protecting us, guiding us, and loving us.
IN: In a world of immorality we pray today for the faithfulness of husbands and wives. We ask, Father, that You would preserve the marriages of our church family from the attacks of Satan; that the hearts of mates might be turned to each other, and away from distractions. Help those who are married remember their promises to each other and to You when they are tempted.
MN: We ask that You use us to build up Your church at College Avenue; that You will stir up within each of us the desire to grow, both spiritually and numerically; bless our outreach efforts and the recipients of these efforts; especially bless the work of Rick Brown, Jason Laird, Joe Turbeville, and Knox White as they work with our Growth Groups.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank You, Father, for creating us, instructing us, saving us, protecting us, guiding us, and loving us.
IN: In a world of immorality we pray today for the faithfulness of husbands and wives. We ask, Father, that You would preserve the marriages of our church family from the attacks of Satan; that the hearts of mates might be turned to each other, and away from distractions. Help those who are married remember their promises to each other and to You when they are tempted.
MN: We ask that You use us to build up Your church at College Avenue; that You will stir up within each of us the desire to grow, both spiritually and numerically; bless our outreach efforts and the recipients of these efforts; especially bless the work of Rick Brown, Jason Laird, Joe Turbeville, and Knox White as they work with our Growth Groups.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
DAY 17 (TUES 11/5)
"Live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature....those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires" - Galatians 5:16, 24
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We praise You today, Father, for Your indwelling Spirit of holiness. We thank You for not leaving us alone in this world, but giving us the comfort and strength of Your presence in our lives. We are in awe of Your perfect nature and give You thanks for sharing that nature with us through the Holy Spirit.
CF: We confess that we often quench the power of Your Spirit in our lives by seeking to please our flesh rather than pleasing Your Spirit. Help us, Father, by the power of Christ Jesus to crucify the passions of the flesh and to live by Your Spirit.
SG: Father, we especially ask You today to enable us to better control our tongues. Help us to resist the temptations of gossip, of grumbling, and of ugly words. Make us more sensitive to the needs of others, that we might speak words which build up, and not tear down. Give us more patience and discretion, that we might be quick to hear and slow to speak.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We praise You today, Father, for Your indwelling Spirit of holiness. We thank You for not leaving us alone in this world, but giving us the comfort and strength of Your presence in our lives. We are in awe of Your perfect nature and give You thanks for sharing that nature with us through the Holy Spirit.
CF: We confess that we often quench the power of Your Spirit in our lives by seeking to please our flesh rather than pleasing Your Spirit. Help us, Father, by the power of Christ Jesus to crucify the passions of the flesh and to live by Your Spirit.
SG: Father, we especially ask You today to enable us to better control our tongues. Help us to resist the temptations of gossip, of grumbling, and of ugly words. Make us more sensitive to the needs of others, that we might speak words which build up, and not tear down. Give us more patience and discretion, that we might be quick to hear and slow to speak.
Monday, November 4, 2013
DAY 16 (MON 11/4)
"Give us each day our daily bread.” -Luke 11:3
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank You, Father, for our daily bread; for the abundant food on our tables that we so often take for granted; the variety of healthy and wholesome food that is ours freely to enjoy. We praise You for the abundance we experience in this most blessed of nations.
SG: We ask that we will be less self-centered, and more aware of the needs of others, and of our own need for God. We especially pray that all of us who are going through these “40 Days of Prayer” might grow in our faith and our relationship with our Lord.
MN: Ask God's blessings today on the work of deacons Gary Anzalone with special events and Leroy Shelton in benevolence.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We thank You, Father, for our daily bread; for the abundant food on our tables that we so often take for granted; the variety of healthy and wholesome food that is ours freely to enjoy. We praise You for the abundance we experience in this most blessed of nations.
SG: We ask that we will be less self-centered, and more aware of the needs of others, and of our own need for God. We especially pray that all of us who are going through these “40 Days of Prayer” might grow in our faith and our relationship with our Lord.
MN: Ask God's blessings today on the work of deacons Gary Anzalone with special events and Leroy Shelton in benevolence.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
DAY 15 (SUN 11/3)
"Pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message…pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.” Colossians 4:3-4
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Ask God to bless the public and personal ministries of Kent & Jason; ask the Lord to give them a spirit of wisdom and of power as they preach and teach.
IN: Father, we pray for the search process as we seek to hire a Discipleship Minister. Please guide those involved in the process and make the choice abundantly clear. Be with the family chosen and may the transition be smooth.
MN: There are many deacons who help to plan our worship services, prepare our Family Life Center for worship, and manage our assemblies. We thank God today for the work of Tony Jones, Eric Moree, Gary Morton, and Clint Rhodes.
___________________________________
Friday Fasting
This week serves as the half-way point for our 40 days of prayer campaign. Our shepherds have called us to this campaign of prayer so that we might follow the example of Jesus. This week we will once again pray for the specific needs identified in this prayer guide by the overseers of our church family. The following prayer items for this week are labeled either: PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs).
This Friday, the 20th Day, has been designated as a day of prayer and fasting, as we earnestly seek God's blessings for revival in our congregation and in our community. You are invited to join in a lunch-time prayer service on Friday, November 8th anytime between from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. in the Auditorium.
And, if you are able, to join in a day of fasting as we ask God to bless our church. You will find information about fasting below.
FAST FACTS ON FASTING
Why are we fasting as a congregation? It is the mid-way point of our 40 Days of Prayer, in which we are praying for revival. We will be asking God to bless our country and our community, to revive our faith, and to convict and convert the unsaved among us.
What does fasting accomplish for us? It humbles our soul (Psalm 35:13), disciplines our body (1 Corinthians 9:27), intensifies our focus on prayer (1 Corinthians 7:5), strengthens our prayers (Ezra 8:23), and reminds us of spiritual priorities (Matthew 4:4, 5:6).
How do I go about it? Decide in your heart you will dedicate that day to God and spend extra time in prayer. Tell your family what you are doing, so they will not expect you at the dinner table. Some may choose to abstain from food all day on Friday; other may wish to follow the practice of Biblical times and fast from 6 p.m. on Thursday to 6 p.m. the next day. Drink plenty of liquids during your fast, and abstain from vigorous exercise.
Do I have to fast? No one is taking roll and no one will be required to fast. Like the discipline of prayer, it flows out of your own relationship with the Lord. God's blessings are bestowed upon those who freely choose to serve Him (2 Corinthians 9:6-11).
This emphasis on fasting seems uncomfortable to me- I have been in the church all my life and I'm not used to it. If your discomfort is spiritual, it may be because you have not been taught. Jesus fasted (Matthew 4:2), gave instructions to His disciples about fasting (Matthew 6:16-18), and expected His disciples to fast (Matthew 9:14). If your discomfort is physical, you should understand fasting has never been easy, because it requires us to tame and discipline our body (1 Corinthians 6:12, 9:27).
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Ask God to bless the public and personal ministries of Kent & Jason; ask the Lord to give them a spirit of wisdom and of power as they preach and teach.
IN: Father, we pray for the search process as we seek to hire a Discipleship Minister. Please guide those involved in the process and make the choice abundantly clear. Be with the family chosen and may the transition be smooth.
MN: There are many deacons who help to plan our worship services, prepare our Family Life Center for worship, and manage our assemblies. We thank God today for the work of Tony Jones, Eric Moree, Gary Morton, and Clint Rhodes.
___________________________________
Friday Fasting
This week serves as the half-way point for our 40 days of prayer campaign. Our shepherds have called us to this campaign of prayer so that we might follow the example of Jesus. This week we will once again pray for the specific needs identified in this prayer guide by the overseers of our church family. The following prayer items for this week are labeled either: PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs).
This Friday, the 20th Day, has been designated as a day of prayer and fasting, as we earnestly seek God's blessings for revival in our congregation and in our community. You are invited to join in a lunch-time prayer service on Friday, November 8th anytime between from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. in the Auditorium.
And, if you are able, to join in a day of fasting as we ask God to bless our church. You will find information about fasting below.
FAST FACTS ON FASTING
Why are we fasting as a congregation? It is the mid-way point of our 40 Days of Prayer, in which we are praying for revival. We will be asking God to bless our country and our community, to revive our faith, and to convict and convert the unsaved among us.
What does fasting accomplish for us? It humbles our soul (Psalm 35:13), disciplines our body (1 Corinthians 9:27), intensifies our focus on prayer (1 Corinthians 7:5), strengthens our prayers (Ezra 8:23), and reminds us of spiritual priorities (Matthew 4:4, 5:6).
How do I go about it? Decide in your heart you will dedicate that day to God and spend extra time in prayer. Tell your family what you are doing, so they will not expect you at the dinner table. Some may choose to abstain from food all day on Friday; other may wish to follow the practice of Biblical times and fast from 6 p.m. on Thursday to 6 p.m. the next day. Drink plenty of liquids during your fast, and abstain from vigorous exercise.
Do I have to fast? No one is taking roll and no one will be required to fast. Like the discipline of prayer, it flows out of your own relationship with the Lord. God's blessings are bestowed upon those who freely choose to serve Him (2 Corinthians 9:6-11).
This emphasis on fasting seems uncomfortable to me- I have been in the church all my life and I'm not used to it. If your discomfort is spiritual, it may be because you have not been taught. Jesus fasted (Matthew 4:2), gave instructions to His disciples about fasting (Matthew 6:16-18), and expected His disciples to fast (Matthew 9:14). If your discomfort is physical, you should understand fasting has never been easy, because it requires us to tame and discipline our body (1 Corinthians 6:12, 9:27).
Saturday, November 2, 2013
DAY 14 (SAT 11/2)
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves” - Romans 12:10
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: Thank you for your idea of a church family. When our family is experiencing problems, it is refreshing to know that we have a spiritual family working towards the same goals of God and heaven.
CF: We confess that we are too self-centered to notice or meet the needs of others; help us to become more sensitive and more caring towards our brothers and sisters.
MN: Ask God to bless our incredibly devoted Bible class teachers. Pray that God will fill them with love, compassion, and the hunger to teach his Word in the morning.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: Thank you for your idea of a church family. When our family is experiencing problems, it is refreshing to know that we have a spiritual family working towards the same goals of God and heaven.
CF: We confess that we are too self-centered to notice or meet the needs of others; help us to become more sensitive and more caring towards our brothers and sisters.
MN: Ask God to bless our incredibly devoted Bible class teachers. Pray that God will fill them with love, compassion, and the hunger to teach his Word in the morning.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Friday, November 1, 2013
DAY 13 (FRI 11/1)
“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” - Romans 12:16
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Ask God for the ability to accept others as our equals and as brothers and sisters even though they are different from us. Pray that this might always be a church family where all who seek the Lord are welcomed.
IN: Pray today for the ministry of Kent & Cara Jobe, as they work to strengthen our families. Ask God to bless them with wisdom, enthusiasm, and the continued support and participation of our whole church family.
MN: Pray for the parents of children in our congregation: that we might guard our speech, watch our steps, and live our best always. May our hands be strong to provide for them, and our hearts be strong to bring them up in the ways of God.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: Ask God for the ability to accept others as our equals and as brothers and sisters even though they are different from us. Pray that this might always be a church family where all who seek the Lord are welcomed.
IN: Pray today for the ministry of Kent & Cara Jobe, as they work to strengthen our families. Ask God to bless them with wisdom, enthusiasm, and the continued support and participation of our whole church family.
MN: Pray for the parents of children in our congregation: that we might guard our speech, watch our steps, and live our best always. May our hands be strong to provide for them, and our hearts be strong to bring them up in the ways of God.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Thursday, October 31, 2013
DAY 12 (THUR 10/31)
“If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ”- 1 Peter 4:11
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: We ask that God help each of us to discover and develop our talents, that we might each take our place in the body of Christ and become more involved in his work in the world. We thank God for the strength and abilities he provides, and pray that we might always use them to bring glory to Christ. Pray today for the work of Clint Meadows, our Deacon for New Members.
SG: Pray that God will position all of us to serve this week. Pray that our comfort zones will be broken down so that we can serve the broken. Ask for wisdom and guidance as we struggle to make this a part of who we are in Christ.
IN: Pray today for the church-planting work of Wes and Ariel Woodell in St. Louis, Missouri. Pray for their children Naomi, Conrad, Eden, Juliana as they grow up in the ministry. Pray for the safety of their family, and the success of their team in planting and nurturing churches in the city.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
SG: We ask that God help each of us to discover and develop our talents, that we might each take our place in the body of Christ and become more involved in his work in the world. We thank God for the strength and abilities he provides, and pray that we might always use them to bring glory to Christ. Pray today for the work of Clint Meadows, our Deacon for New Members.
SG: Pray that God will position all of us to serve this week. Pray that our comfort zones will be broken down so that we can serve the broken. Ask for wisdom and guidance as we struggle to make this a part of who we are in Christ.
IN: Pray today for the church-planting work of Wes and Ariel Woodell in St. Louis, Missouri. Pray for their children Naomi, Conrad, Eden, Juliana as they grow up in the ministry. Pray for the safety of their family, and the success of their team in planting and nurturing churches in the city.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
DAY 11 (WED, 10/30)
“Love the brotherhood” - 1 Peter 2:17
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray today not only for our congregation but for all the churches of Christ in south Arkansas and northern Louisiana; we pray for revival throughout our brotherhood. Pray today specifically for those who are working hard in smaller communities, that God might encourage their souls and bless their work.
MN: Pray for the continued success of our Prime Timers group. Pray that Steve Saulsbury and Belinda Brown can continue to bless our group through their leadership skills.
MN: Thank God for the many strengths of the College Avenue church, and pray that we might find more ways to use our resources to support area churches.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray today not only for our congregation but for all the churches of Christ in south Arkansas and northern Louisiana; we pray for revival throughout our brotherhood. Pray today specifically for those who are working hard in smaller communities, that God might encourage their souls and bless their work.
MN: Pray for the continued success of our Prime Timers group. Pray that Steve Saulsbury and Belinda Brown can continue to bless our group through their leadership skills.
MN: Thank God for the many strengths of the College Avenue church, and pray that we might find more ways to use our resources to support area churches.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
DAY 10 (TUES 10/29)
“Restore us, O Lord God Almighty; make your face shine upon us, that we may be saved” - Psalm 80:19
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Pray for all 36 of our deacons by name (they are listed on the back of the issue of UpWords (you receive at the first of the month). Ask God to bless their ministries.
MN: Pray for our Sunday afternoon youth ministries this fall- for our Children’s Bible Hour, Backyard Bible Club, and our Youth Groups Open Door Bible Study. Pray for all who are working with these invaluable ministries on a weekly basis.
CF: We confess that we often get so busy that we don’t have sufficient time for church, for service, and for spiritual growth. Help us, Father, to examine our priorities and spend our life on things that last.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Pray for all 36 of our deacons by name (they are listed on the back of the issue of UpWords (you receive at the first of the month). Ask God to bless their ministries.
MN: Pray for our Sunday afternoon youth ministries this fall- for our Children’s Bible Hour, Backyard Bible Club, and our Youth Groups Open Door Bible Study. Pray for all who are working with these invaluable ministries on a weekly basis.
CF: We confess that we often get so busy that we don’t have sufficient time for church, for service, and for spiritual growth. Help us, Father, to examine our priorities and spend our life on things that last.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Monday, October 28, 2013
DAY 9 (MON 10/28)
“Revive us, and we will call upon your name” - Psalm 80:18
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We praise you, O God, for your greatness; that we can call you “Father”; for the many blessings you have given us, both spiritual and physical; for the opportunities you have given us to serve you; for Jesus, and the great sacrifice made by the Trinity; for our congregation here at College Avenue; and for Your grace.
MN: Many have been brought to Christ in the past twelve months, but others are still studying the Bible or considering their response. Pray for our outreach efforts, and ask God to bless His Word that many more might be brought to saving faith.
CF: We confess our sins, both of commission and of omission; our thoughts are not always what You want them to be; we are often not kind and patient with others when we should be; we have let material things have priorities over spiritual things. We ask that you forgive us, cleanse us, strengthen us, and renew us.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We praise you, O God, for your greatness; that we can call you “Father”; for the many blessings you have given us, both spiritual and physical; for the opportunities you have given us to serve you; for Jesus, and the great sacrifice made by the Trinity; for our congregation here at College Avenue; and for Your grace.
MN: Many have been brought to Christ in the past twelve months, but others are still studying the Bible or considering their response. Pray for our outreach efforts, and ask God to bless His Word that many more might be brought to saving faith.
CF: We confess our sins, both of commission and of omission; our thoughts are not always what You want them to be; we are often not kind and patient with others when we should be; we have let material things have priorities over spiritual things. We ask that you forgive us, cleanse us, strengthen us, and renew us.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Sunday, October 27, 2013
DAY 8 (SUN 10/27)
“He will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, ‘God is really among you!’” - 1 Corinthians 14:25
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray for revival in our nation, that Americans might be shaken out of their spiritual complacency and moral indifference and might truly trust in God.
IN: We pray for revival in our church, that we might genuinely be known as a place of grace, of holiness, and of praise. Help us, Father, to come to worship with a sense of expectancy and a desire to experience your presence in our worship today.
IN: We pray for revival in us, that we might fully allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us.
MORNING PRAYER
Eternal Father of my soul, let my first thought today be of you, let my first impulse be to worship You, let my first speech be Your name, let my first action be to kneel before You in prayer.
For Your perfect wisdom and perfect goodness;
for the love with which You love mankind;
for the love with which You love me;
for the great and mysterious opportunity of my life;
for the indwelling of Your Spirit in my life;
I praise you and worship You, O Lord.
Yet let me not, when this morning prayer is said, think my worship ended and spend the day in forgetfulness of You. Rather from these moments of quietness let light go forth, and joy, and power, that will remain with me through all the hours of the day.
–John Baillie
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
This week’s prayer guides were prepared by Jason Baker.
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), or MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: We pray for revival in our nation, that Americans might be shaken out of their spiritual complacency and moral indifference and might truly trust in God.
IN: We pray for revival in our church, that we might genuinely be known as a place of grace, of holiness, and of praise. Help us, Father, to come to worship with a sense of expectancy and a desire to experience your presence in our worship today.
IN: We pray for revival in us, that we might fully allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and through us.
MORNING PRAYER
Eternal Father of my soul, let my first thought today be of you, let my first impulse be to worship You, let my first speech be Your name, let my first action be to kneel before You in prayer.
For Your perfect wisdom and perfect goodness;
for the love with which You love mankind;
for the love with which You love me;
for the great and mysterious opportunity of my life;
for the indwelling of Your Spirit in my life;
I praise you and worship You, O Lord.
Yet let me not, when this morning prayer is said, think my worship ended and spend the day in forgetfulness of You. Rather from these moments of quietness let light go forth, and joy, and power, that will remain with me through all the hours of the day.
–John Baillie
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
This week’s prayer guides were prepared by Jason Baker.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
DAY 7 (SAT 10/26)
"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his Glory"- Isaiah 6:3
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Search our hearts, O God, and know our anxious thoughts; deliver us from worry and give us more faith.
IN: We pray today specifically for the doctors and nurses at the Medical Center of South Arkansas and for the attendants in the nursing homes here in El Dorado and Union County. Bless the sometimes difficult work they do in ministering to the ill and infirm. Guide their hands that they might bring healing to those who are hurting.
MN: We pray today for our Fall Bible classes. Ask God's blessings on all the teachers as they prepare themselves to share the riches of God's Word with their classes tomorrow. We pray especially that our children's classes will continue to grow, and that even more young people will be blessed by this ministry.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
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PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Search our hearts, O God, and know our anxious thoughts; deliver us from worry and give us more faith.
IN: We pray today specifically for the doctors and nurses at the Medical Center of South Arkansas and for the attendants in the nursing homes here in El Dorado and Union County. Bless the sometimes difficult work they do in ministering to the ill and infirm. Guide their hands that they might bring healing to those who are hurting.
MN: We pray today for our Fall Bible classes. Ask God's blessings on all the teachers as they prepare themselves to share the riches of God's Word with their classes tomorrow. We pray especially that our children's classes will continue to grow, and that even more young people will be blessed by this ministry.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Friday, October 25, 2013
DAY 6 (FRI 10/25)
"Devote yourselves to pray, being watchful and thankful" - Colossians 4:2
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: Father, we praise You today for our jobs. We thank You for the opportunity to work, to make an honest living, and to provide for our families. We recognize that there are many throughout the world who are not so blessed. We thank You for the opportunity to be useful and productive, and ask that You give us opportunities to be witnesses in our workplace.
IN: Some in our church family are looking for employment; pray specifically today that they will find the work they need.
IN: Intercede today on behalf of Benny & Donna Baker as they further the gospel in Nicaragua. Ask God to give them strength and wisdom; to give their team a spirit of unity and love; and to open doors for their ministry.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: Father, we praise You today for our jobs. We thank You for the opportunity to work, to make an honest living, and to provide for our families. We recognize that there are many throughout the world who are not so blessed. We thank You for the opportunity to be useful and productive, and ask that You give us opportunities to be witnesses in our workplace.
IN: Some in our church family are looking for employment; pray specifically today that they will find the work they need.
IN: Intercede today on behalf of Benny & Donna Baker as they further the gospel in Nicaragua. Ask God to give them strength and wisdom; to give their team a spirit of unity and love; and to open doors for their ministry.
_____________________
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www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Thursday, October 24, 2013
DAY 5 (THUR 10/24)
"Restore to me the joy of your salvation" - Psalm 51:12
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Our shepherds ask that we pray today for the families of our congregation, and especially those families that are experiencing difficulties. Ask God to bless troubled marriages and bring healing and peace and reconciliation where there is conflict. Ask God to bless parents as they seek to raise their children, that they might exercise a healthy authority balanced by love. Pray especially today for those children who are growing up in homes that are broken by discord or divorce.
MN: Ask God to bless each of our elders as they lead and shepherd this church. Pray today, by name, for Bret Garrett, David Hogg, Mike Meadows, David Ponder, Bruce Simpson, Jim Welch, and Allen White.
SG: Father, we confess that we are often inattentive to Your leading in our lives; that we can be blind to needs of even those close to us, and often grumble about the service that we do render in Your name. Help us to be greater servants; to be cheerful givers; to be willing workers in Your kingdom. Prevent us from falling in love with the pleasures and possessions of the world and neglecting our own spiritual growth or the opportunity to serve others.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Our shepherds ask that we pray today for the families of our congregation, and especially those families that are experiencing difficulties. Ask God to bless troubled marriages and bring healing and peace and reconciliation where there is conflict. Ask God to bless parents as they seek to raise their children, that they might exercise a healthy authority balanced by love. Pray especially today for those children who are growing up in homes that are broken by discord or divorce.
MN: Ask God to bless each of our elders as they lead and shepherd this church. Pray today, by name, for Bret Garrett, David Hogg, Mike Meadows, David Ponder, Bruce Simpson, Jim Welch, and Allen White.
SG: Father, we confess that we are often inattentive to Your leading in our lives; that we can be blind to needs of even those close to us, and often grumble about the service that we do render in Your name. Help us to be greater servants; to be cheerful givers; to be willing workers in Your kingdom. Prevent us from falling in love with the pleasures and possessions of the world and neglecting our own spiritual growth or the opportunity to serve others.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
DAY 4 (WED 10/23)
"If my people, who are called by my name, will 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 will heal their land"- 2 Chronicles 7:14
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Father, today we pray for our nation. Pray for our government and its leaders, that they might have wisdom. Pray for our armed forces, who are protecting our freedom. Pray for those who are grieving over loved ones lost in the line of duty. Pray for those firefighters and police in our country and our community who continue to put their lives on the line for us.
In keeping with the instructions and the example of our Lord, we pray today for our enemies. We ask that you purge our hearts of hatred and prejudice so that we might truly demonstrate the love of Christ, who prayed from the Cross for His tormentors. We pray that You will continue to raise up with a heart for Muslims, and that you will open doors in that area of the world for the gospel to enter. Help us to counter fanaticism and hatred with a demonstration of faith and love, so that we might show those who would kill others (and themselves) for Islam what it means to truly live for Christ.
MN: Ask God's blessings on our mid-week service tonight. Pray that the Lord will enable us to be "salt and light" in our country; that we might be more active in sharing the gospel with the lost; that we might be bolder in our witness to the right, and that God might be able to truly bless America through us.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
IN: Father, today we pray for our nation. Pray for our government and its leaders, that they might have wisdom. Pray for our armed forces, who are protecting our freedom. Pray for those who are grieving over loved ones lost in the line of duty. Pray for those firefighters and police in our country and our community who continue to put their lives on the line for us.
In keeping with the instructions and the example of our Lord, we pray today for our enemies. We ask that you purge our hearts of hatred and prejudice so that we might truly demonstrate the love of Christ, who prayed from the Cross for His tormentors. We pray that You will continue to raise up with a heart for Muslims, and that you will open doors in that area of the world for the gospel to enter. Help us to counter fanaticism and hatred with a demonstration of faith and love, so that we might show those who would kill others (and themselves) for Islam what it means to truly live for Christ.
MN: Ask God's blessings on our mid-week service tonight. Pray that the Lord will enable us to be "salt and light" in our country; that we might be more active in sharing the gospel with the lost; that we might be bolder in our witness to the right, and that God might be able to truly bless America through us.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
DAY 3 (TUES 10/22)
"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me" - Psalm 51:10
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Father, as we examine our hearts we recognize we are not always as gracious and patient with our loved ones as You have been with us; help us to reflect the grace we have received from You in a relationship with a loved one today. Give us a forgiving spirit, Lord, that we might be forgiven by You.
PR: Today we praise God for the increase of our women's ministries, both in numbers of participants, in outreach, and in spiritual growth. We thank God for the two Ladies' Bible classes which are continuing their Fall study. We ask that God continue to bless these classes and the work they do; we pray that these classes will continue to grow, to serve, and to be a blessing to its members. Ask for a spirit of wisdom for Jane Reynolds, Susan Turbeville and others as they lead these classes.
MN: Father, we thank you for the good work being done in our Sewing for the Master ministry, and ask your blessings on all of these ladies that participate and on the over 2,000 children who have received dresses through their efforts.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Father, as we examine our hearts we recognize we are not always as gracious and patient with our loved ones as You have been with us; help us to reflect the grace we have received from You in a relationship with a loved one today. Give us a forgiving spirit, Lord, that we might be forgiven by You.
PR: Today we praise God for the increase of our women's ministries, both in numbers of participants, in outreach, and in spiritual growth. We thank God for the two Ladies' Bible classes which are continuing their Fall study. We ask that God continue to bless these classes and the work they do; we pray that these classes will continue to grow, to serve, and to be a blessing to its members. Ask for a spirit of wisdom for Jane Reynolds, Susan Turbeville and others as they lead these classes.
MN: Father, we thank you for the good work being done in our Sewing for the Master ministry, and ask your blessings on all of these ladies that participate and on the over 2,000 children who have received dresses through their efforts.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Monday, October 21, 2013
DAY 2 (MON 10/ 21)
"When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." - Matthew 6:6
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Father, we confess that we are too often too busy; that we have cluttered our lives with trivial things and neglected eternal realities; that we so easily become weighed down with the cares and troubles of this world and neglect our relationship with You.
SG: Dear God, in these 40 days of prayer, we come before You to claim the blessings You have promised: we ask that You give us the peace that comes from trusting You; the power that comes from Your Spirit in us; and the joy that accompanies our salvation.
MN: Ask God to bless the outreach of our Growth Groups; to give all our group leaders wisdom and insight as they direct our discussions; to lead us to someone today who is seeking the Lord; to give us the wisdom and courage to invite them to share in the fellowship of our group as we draw closer to God through the Psalms.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
CF: Father, we confess that we are too often too busy; that we have cluttered our lives with trivial things and neglected eternal realities; that we so easily become weighed down with the cares and troubles of this world and neglect our relationship with You.
SG: Dear God, in these 40 days of prayer, we come before You to claim the blessings You have promised: we ask that You give us the peace that comes from trusting You; the power that comes from Your Spirit in us; and the joy that accompanies our salvation.
MN: Ask God to bless the outreach of our Growth Groups; to give all our group leaders wisdom and insight as they direct our discussions; to lead us to someone today who is seeking the Lord; to give us the wisdom and courage to invite them to share in the fellowship of our group as we draw closer to God through the Psalms.
_____________________
www.cacoc.org
www.facebook.com/cacoceld
www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Sunday, October 20, 2013
DAY 1 (SUN 10/20)
"Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?"- Psalm 85:6
PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We praise you, Father, for the gift of prayer; for the blessing of being able to talk to You at any time and to be confident that You hear, You care, and You are willing and able to answer our petitions. We especially give thanks for the mediation of Jesus, our High Priest, who speaks before Your throne on our behalf.
SG: Father, we boldly ask in the name of Jesus that You bless us in the next 40 days with a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline; through our High Priest we claim Your promise to draw near to us as we draw near to You; we ask that You grant us more faith and a deeper sense of Your presence in our lives in the days ahead.
MN: Revive us again; fill each heart with Your love; may each soul be rekindled with fire from above. Revive us, O God, that we might serve You joyfully, not grudgingly.
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This week's prayer guides were prepared by Kent Jobe.
www.cacoc.org
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PR (Praise), IN (Intercession), CF (Confession), SG (Spiritual Growth), MN (Ministry Needs)
PR: We praise you, Father, for the gift of prayer; for the blessing of being able to talk to You at any time and to be confident that You hear, You care, and You are willing and able to answer our petitions. We especially give thanks for the mediation of Jesus, our High Priest, who speaks before Your throne on our behalf.
SG: Father, we boldly ask in the name of Jesus that You bless us in the next 40 days with a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline; through our High Priest we claim Your promise to draw near to us as we draw near to You; we ask that You grant us more faith and a deeper sense of Your presence in our lives in the days ahead.
MN: Revive us again; fill each heart with Your love; may each soul be rekindled with fire from above. Revive us, O God, that we might serve You joyfully, not grudgingly.
_____________________
This week's prayer guides were prepared by Kent Jobe.
www.cacoc.org
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www.twitter.com/cacoceld
Saturday, October 19, 2013
7 Practical Suggestions for Using the Daily Prayer Guides
"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak"- Matthew 26:40-41
You are about to embark on one of life's greatest adventures: the life-changing discipline of fervent prayer! To ensure your successful completion of the 40 Days, consider these practical suggestions:
You are about to embark on one of life's greatest adventures: the life-changing discipline of fervent prayer! To ensure your successful completion of the 40 Days, consider these practical suggestions:
1. Choose a specific time when you will pray each day (Daniel 6:10); be sure it is a time you will be alert (Matthew 26:40-41). Choose a specific place to be when you pray each day; make sure it is one where you will be undistracted (Matthew 6:6).
2. Decide now where you will keep your prayer guide so that you can find it readily. For example, consider leaving it by your bedside or in your Bible.
3. Each day during your devotional time, read aloud the specific prayer requests for that day. This will help your mind focus on the petitions you will be offering. To track your progress, check off the box by each date after you have completed that day's petitions.
4. If you are married or have a family, consider praying together (1 Peter 3:7.)
5. The prayer guide also contains daily scripture readings. Take a moment to read each day's scripture aloud before praying, to clear your mind and prepare your heart for your conversation with God (Psalm 19:14).
6. The prayer guide is designed to expand our prayer time by going beyond routine requests (Ephesians 6:18); therefore, be sure to include ALL of the petitions in your devotions.
7. Finally, remember that our Father wants to speak to US, too! Ask God to help you be sensitive to the leading of His Spirit (Romans 8:12-27, Galatians 5:16-18) and alert to the answers He sends in your life (Acts 12:12-16)!
Subscribe to College Ave. Church of Christ - 40 Days of Prayer by Email
www.cacoc.org
Subscribe to College Ave. Church of Christ - 40 Days of Prayer by Email
www.cacoc.org
40 Days of Prayer Starts Sunday!
40 Days of Prayer
2014
Revival
comes only when we humble ourselves before God (2 Chronicles 7:14). Throughout the history of God's people,
outpourings of spiritual power have been preceded by periods of intense prayer
(Acts 1:14). In this evil age we believe the Lord's church needs to be revived
by God's power. Therefore the theme of
this year's prayer campaign is "Revive Us Again."
All
who are willing to participate are asked to use each week's prayer guide to pray each day for 40
days, and to pray for the specific needs identified by the overseers of our
church family. Prayer items are labeled either PR (Praise), IN (Intercession),
SG (Spiritual Growth), CF (Confession), or MN (Ministry Needs).
This
year you are also encouraged by our shepherds to participate on the 20th Day (Friday,
November 8) as a day of both prayer AND fasting. Look
for more details in regard to that day very soon!
***If you were subscribed to e-mail updates of previous prayer campaigns with College Avenue Church of Christ, you are still subscribed now and should be receiving the 2013 daily e-mails. If you know of others who may also like to receive their daily prayer guides over the 40 days via e-mail, please share this with them and so they may click on the link below to sign up. Thank you.***
Subscribe to College Ave. Church of Christ - 40 Days of Prayer by Email
www.cacoc.org
***If you were subscribed to e-mail updates of previous prayer campaigns with College Avenue Church of Christ, you are still subscribed now and should be receiving the 2013 daily e-mails. If you know of others who may also like to receive their daily prayer guides over the 40 days via e-mail, please share this with them and so they may click on the link below to sign up. Thank you.***
Subscribe to College Ave. Church of Christ - 40 Days of Prayer by Email
www.cacoc.org
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