Dear Praying Friends, In August we prayed, “Show us Your glory, Lord as we surrender all!” Perhaps you felt some heartache while praying along with us in August. I believe that prayers of “surrender” mean that I am dying to my own desires to take on the image of Jesus. Scripture reminds us that when a “seed” falls on the ground and dies, it produces much fruit. (John 12:2). It will be exciting to see the fruit of our August 2023 season of prayer. As we continue into September, I invite you to pray SHOW US YOUR GLORY, Lord as WE EMBRACE YOUR “NEW THING”, based on Isaiah 43:18-19. I encourage you to read this scripture daily in September, along with the other scriptures included in the daily posts. Keep praying, friends! ~Gina
Prayer Pointer: …there is a sense in which we must remember the past, in terms of God’s great work on our behalf. There is also a sense in which we must forsake and forget the past, with all its discouragement and defeat, and move on to what God has for us in the future.~Enduring Word Commentary
Prayer “Starter”: Holy Spirit, help me to follow Your leading every day as I look to the future. When I get discouraged, remind me of the great ways that I have been delivered and protected in the past. As I face uncertain days, clarify God’s plans for my life so that I can walk in absolute obedience. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE EMBRACE YOUR “NEW THING.”
Think/Journal/Apply: Looking back, note some places where God has met you with help and hope.
Prayer Pointer: …the Lord is to be waited upon for the manifestations of himself, who sometimes hides himself, but is to be waited for, since he has his set time to show himself again, and his presence is worth waiting for… ~Gill’s Exposition of the Bible
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help me to be obedient in the waiting. Let me know what to do and when to do it. Let me know when to wait for Your further instructions. When I grow impatient, remind me of the importance of waiting upon You. I trust Your timing as I wait upon You. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE EMBRACE YOUR “NEW THING.”
Think/Journal/Apply: In what circumstances is it difficult for you to wait for the Lord? Why?
Praying friends~It is hard to believe that another month is coming to an end. I feel I should continue posting into September. Please pray for a clear “word” from the Lord as to the direction in prayer He wants us to take in September. I have been amazed to see how He is using this for His glory. If you have a prayer “nugget” that you think would be blog worthy, I’d love for you to share that with me. You can send submissions for consideration for the blog to this email: rhythmsofgrace721@gmail.com. Let’s pray August 2023 into the history books: Show us Your Glory, Lord as We Surrender All! ~Gina
Prayer Pointer: As you walk through the valley of the unknown, you will find the footprints of Jesus both in front of you and beside you. – Charles Stanley
Prayer “Starter”: Listen to God Will Make a Way; Pray: Lord, thank You for Your promise to make a way for me through the difficulties of this life. Jesus, You completely understand the difficulties and adversity that we all encounter here. Help my brothers and sisters worldwide in every trial they face today. Be glorified, Lord, in each life. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL.
Think/Journal/Apply: Is God calling you to let go of some old things so that He can bring His new things into your life? (Isaiah 43:18-19) Talk to Him about this.
Prayer Pointer:The riches of God’s wisdom and knowledge manifest His complete, comprehensive, and sovereign ultimate plan. Not only is He omniscient in that plan, but He executes it with wisdom. Whatever wisdom and knowledge man might have, it does not compare to the infinite extent of God’s. Our wisdom is only a passing glance of what God is about.~Verse by Verse Commentary for Romans 11:33
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, I know that my human thinking just barely scratches the surface of Who You are and what You have done for me. I ask You to take me into a deeper understanding of all that You have given me through the Cross. Holy Spirit, come and fill me today afresh and anew with the purposes of Your Kingdom. I pray this for my brothers and sisters all over the world. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Note any words in Romans 11:33 that are speaking to you. Pen a prayer based on your meditation.
As you have time: Worship Song for Today: Romans 11 Doxology; go on a “treasure hunt” in God’s Word, searching out His promises. Here is a place to start: God’s Promises in the Bible
Prayer Pointer: Go deeper and deeper into His Word. You cannot exhaust it. It cannot be comprehended in its fullness in all the days of our lives. So number your days; discipline yourself to be a man of the Word, a woman of the Word. Study it, learn it, know it, believe it, and obey it. Then I guarantee that when the test or the trial or the temptation comes, you will be the overcomer: “This is the victory that has overcome the world–our faith.” (1 John 5:4) ~Kay Arthur
Prayer “starter”: Lord, You have left us in the world to be proclaimers of Who You are to the world. Protect us from the evil one and teach us how to walk in this world the way that You did when You were here. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and help us to be people devoted to living out of Your Word. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: What encouragement do you draw from today’s Bible reading? What words convict you? Pray about these things.
Prayer Pointer: The Spirit of God longs to give you his great power. He will guide, teach and energize you. He will shoulder the burdens you were never intended to carry. Challenges come with life, but they need not define your life. Help is here. ~Max Lucado in Help is Here: Finding FRESH STRENGTH and PURPOSE in the POWER of the HOLY SPIRIT
Prayer “Starter”: Holy Spirit, I want to know You more. Teach me about Who You are and fill me with Your power. Guide me in the decisions I face each day so that I am aligned with the will of God. I’m sorry for times when I try to trudge ahead in my own strength rather than in Yours. Thank You for being my Help and my Comforter. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Think of a time in your life when you felt burned out or overwhelmed. How did you try to cope with that burn out?
Thanks for joining us in August as we prayed SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
I hope you will join us in September as we continue in prayer. New posts will be available at midnight on Friday, September 1, 2023! Pray on, Saints! ~Gina
As I was driving to my home north of town recently, I noticed a tiny plane up in the air. At the model airplane event center that is on my path home, I could see many cars gathered as model airplane enthusiasts enjoyed their hobby. A thought crossed my mind: “What would it take for that model airplane to be knocked down from the heights?” A simple gust of wind could do that. It got me thinking about what could take me down when I get too “high” on my own accomplishments. God warns us that pride goes before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18) This week, let’s keep praying SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL. And let’s add to our prayers a desire for humble hearts to hear Him. Blessings, Gina
Prayer Pointer: The essence of Gospel-humility is not thinking more of myself or thinking less of myself, it is thinking of myself less. ~Tim Keller
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, thank You for showing me how easy it is for pride to slip into my thinking and my heart. You have blessed me with so many beautiful blessings but I know that I can begin to take credit for these good things. Forgive me, Lord, and truly help me by the power of the Holy Spirit to stay in a humble place before You. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: How can I give God praise today?
Prayer Pointer: We may see tears as a bad thing or even a sign of weakness. But Psalm 126:5-6 shows us that weeping “produces”. When the Lord takes me into a time of weeping, I have come to expect the “songs of joy” that will follow. Sometimes my seasons of weeping last a while, but I have found that God carries me in every season.~ Gina
Prayer “Starter” Part 1: Set your timer on your phone for two minutes, pray “Speak, Lord, Your servant is listening.” and then sit in silence with Him. You may want to take note if you hear Him say something that you need to remember.
Prayer “Starter” Part 2: Lord, thank You for this moment of silence with You. It feels so wonderful to slow down for even just a moment to be in Your presence. Holy Spirit, please prompt me today and in the days ahead to pause and wait upon the Lord. Also, please teach me about the spiritual seasons that You lead me through. Help me to see each “season” with Your understanding so that I can rightly discern what You want me to do in every situation. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Can you recall a recent season of weeping? What was the outcome and what did you learn?
Prayer Pointer: The Name Alpha and Omega represents God as the Beginning and the End. The noted historian, H.G. Wells, made a list of the ten greatest men of history and number one on that list was Jesus Christ. Jesus doesn’t belong on that list. He doesn’t belong on anybody’s list. He is Jesus the First and the Last. ~ Names of God Found in the Bible, Love Worth Finding Ministries
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, today I worship You as the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. You know about every day that You have created for my life. Help me to live today with an awareness of Your Greatness. And then help me to do that again tomorrow and the day after that until You return or You take me home to Heaven. Your greatness is indescribable and I’m doing my best today to express my love to You. Thank You for accepting this humble offering! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Do you have questions about Jesus as Alpha and Omega? Use your questions for a continuing conversation with Him.
Prayer Pointer: We spoke about weeping on Tuesday of this week in Psalm 126:5-6. Psalm 40:1-3 also displays a time of great difficulty. But again, in v. 3 we see that “breakthrough” place where the new song appears. I will say this again for whoever needs to hear this today…Weeping and difficulty can bring you into a greater knowledge of God’s love. Will you let them? ~Gina
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, thank You for the reminder again today that difficulty can bring forth a greater knowledge of Your Goodness. I present all of my difficulties, my tears, my struggles to You today. Help me in the midst of these things, to keep worshipping You even with tears streaming down my face. You are GOOD! I trust You! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Make a list of struggles that you are currently facing and then present each one to the Lord. You make want to do this on a page separate from your journal and then destroy the page as an act of faith after you pray.
As you have time: Worship Song for Today: O God Our Help in Ages Past Gina’s note: This hymn deeply ministered to me and I encourage you to listen and to soak in the truths contained here.
Prayer Pointer: “Sin seeks to enter, grace shuts the door; sin tries to get the mastery, but grace, which is stronger than sin, resists, and will not permit it. Sin gets us down at times, and puts its foot on our neck; grace comes to the rescue… Sin comes up like Noah’s flood, but grace rides over the tops of the mountains like the ark.” ~Charles Spurgeon
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, thank You for this reminder in James that grace only comes to the humble. Please help me, in the power of Your Holy Spirit, to remain in a humble stance before You. As You bless me, I see how easy it is to cross over into pride. I want to exalt You and You alone today. Please help me! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/journal/apply: Grace and pride are enemies. Talk to the Lord about places where you are vulnerable to pride. Continue the conversation asking for the Holy Spirit to refine these areas.
As you have time: “Genuine humility, as with true faith, is not self-help or a life hack, but a response to divine initiative and help.” ~David Mathis Read more in his article, How Do I Humble Myself?
Saturday & Sunday, August 26 & 27, 2023: Choose one of the scripture passages from this week’s posts to read again.
Take time this weekend for real rest. Ask the Lord to teach you what the real Sabbath looks like and feels like. I encourage you to gather with others in the House of the Lord for worship. Have a restful weekend!
Check back Monday, August 28th for new posts. They will post at midnight on that day. Blessings to all!
Dear Praying friends, I encourage you to continue joining us here in prayer as you are able. I believe that “prayer changes things” and that God wants us to ask for His Kingdom to come. I believe that too often, our prayer lives are only focused on ourselves, while God has much deeper desires. I have learned over the years that “Kingdom” praying is the deepest kind of praying. I do ask for the Lord to help me with my day-to-day living, but I long for more intimacy than those kinds of requests. I hope that you do, too! Have a blessed week as we continue to pray, “SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL! Blessings, ~Gina
Prayer Pointer: No matter how low down you are; no matter what your disposition has been; you may be low in your thoughts, words, and actions; you may be selfish; your heart may be overflowing with corruption and wickedness; yet Jesus will have compassion upon you. He will speak comforting words to you; not treat you coldly or spurn you, as perhaps those of earth would, but will speak tender words, and words of love and affection and kindness. Just come at once. He is a faithful friend – a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. ~Dwight L. Moody
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, I come to You today just as I am. You see the broken places, the places where I am under attack from the enemy, the places where I am weary and joyless. Thank You for letting me come just as I am. Thank You for being my Rock, my Fortress and my Deliverer. (Psalm 18:2) Thank You for loving me! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Is there anything keeping you from crying out to the Lord today?
Prayer Pointer: “Prayer is the great engine to overthrow and rout my spiritual enemies, the great means to procure the graces of which I stand in hourly need.” ~John Newton
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, today I worship You as the One Who sits on the throne. I pray for all my brothers and sisters worldwide to pause today in true worship, letting go of everything that distracts us from You. You alone are worthy of all praise and honor and glory! I know that someday I will join the throngs from every nation, tribe and tongue who will gather around Your Heavenly throne, arrayed in garments made white by the Blood of the Lamb. Until that day, help each of us to remain faithful here on earth. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD…as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Talk to the Lord about your dreams of a home in Heaven someday.
Prayer Pointer: He is a refiner’s fire, and that makes all the difference. A refiner’s fire does not destroy indiscriminately like a forest fire. A refiner’s fire does not consume like the fire of an incinerator. A refiner’s fire refines. It purifies. ~John Piper
Prayer “Starter“: Adapted from a prayer in Pray the Word for Your Church: Father God, I come before You with praise and thanksgiving in my heart for the great grace You have lavished on me through Christ Jesus. As I have received this day, Lord may I also freely give to those around me. I ask also, for Your Church that we, Your people would become generous in all things. Pry our fingers off or our possessions that we might increasingly share with those who are in need. (add your own prayers). SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Is there somewhere today where I can meet the need of another?
Special thanks to Carol Kobulnicky, Emmaus Road Community Church, Laramie, WY for providing today’s post.
Prayer Pointer: In this account, Jesus sends out 72 of his followers, insisting they be dependent on the Lord and the generosity and kindness of others for provisions and protection. They were to heal the sick and announce that the kingdom of God has come near to those to whom they minister. When they returned, they were filled with joy and told Jesus, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.”
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, just as Jesus’s disciples were back then, I am utterly dependent on You, too, right now. You call me to be salt and light in the sometimes hostile world around me. You call me to speak peace into others’ lives. You call me to live and pray in Your Name. If even the demons submitted, how is it that we do not? Forgive me, Lord, for striving in my own strength and for not always seeking You first and submitting to Your will. Help me to daily submit to Your holy name, Your holy purposes—to live every aspect of this life You have given me as I should—set apart, seeking Your kingdom first. You expect nothing less. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Am I willing to fully submit every aspect of my life, acknowledging my dependence on Jesus? Ask Him for help in doing so.
As you have time: Spend time considering how capable and trustworthy the Lord of the Universe is. Incorporate declarations of this trust into your daily prayer life.
Prayer Pointer: The image of refinement is something God touches on again and again in His Word. He is the true Refiner. We are His silver. And the fire is the fire of His making, for through His fire our Refiner will perfect an awesome work, a divine work. ~Kay Arthur
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help me and my brothers and sisters throughout the world to worship You today, even in the refining process. Remind each of us when we want to complain that You are for us, not against us. Help us to stand against the wiles of the enemy. Thank You for what You are doing in Your Church worldwide…preparing a Bride without spot or wrinkle. (Ephesians 5:27) All praise and honor and glory belongs to You alone! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: What do you discover about God’s refinement process in Psalm 66:10-12?
Suggested reading for more insights on God’s refining process: As Silver Refinedby Kay Arthur.
Saturday & Sunday, August 19 & 20, 2023: Take some time to rest and to review anything from the week that the Lord has been speaking to you. Consider gathering with other believers in worship and fellowship this weekend.
Think/Journal/Apply: Are there any acts of obedience to the Lord that you left undone?
Keep praying and believing! New posts for August 21-27, 2023 will post on Monday, 8/21 at midnight!
Dear Praying friends, As we “pray on”, the news in this realm doesn’t get any better. But remember that the news of this world doesn’t have the final say! Jesus IS LORD! I recently had a troubling dream where a man, obviously influenced by demons, broke in to where I was. I didn’t recognize the location but I felt threatened in the dream. He kept saying, “You need to stop doing what you are doing!” In the dream, I kept resisting him and even called for human help by having someone call “911.” But that availed nothing because the police didn’t show up. I kept resisting and the man finally left. I believe the enemy is trying hard to stop the move of the Holy Spirit worldwide. Let’s take time this week to pray for ourselves and our brothers and sisters everywhere to be strong and courageous. Let’s keep praying: SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL! As an FYI, I am reaching out to others to write prayer posts and I will note that on the days that the “guest” writers share. ~Blessings, Gina
Special thanks to the guest writer for today’s post: Jason Ricks, Emmaus Road Community Church, Laramie, WY
Prayer Pointer: The world at large is experiencing an identity crisis; however, as followers of Jesus, we can know exactly who we are in Him. We are God’s children! We are His beloved sons and daughters, and He promises that nothing will ever be able to separate us from His love. If we will truly embrace our new identity in Christ, then we can be at peace, knowing that we are loved and accepted by God our Creator and Loving Father.
Prayer “Starter”: Father, thank you for the great love you have given me by sending your Son as the atoning sacrifice for my sins, that I might be adopted as your beloved child. Please forgive me for all the time and energy I’ve spent trying to prove my worth and significance to myself and to others. I pray for the grace to rest in my new identity in Christ and to enjoy the peace and joy that comes as the Holy Spirit continues to pour Your love into my heart. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: How does knowing that I’m the beloved child of God change the way I approach my life (relationships, work, temptations, etc.)?
As you have time: Find some quiet space to slowly pray The Beloved Prayer by Arthur LeClair
Sit relaxed and at ease. Have confidence that God’s love will show itself in some way. For the first ten minutes, without fuss, say the following words slowly and fervently:
Jesus, You are the Beloved.
Repeat the words as necessary. Let your heart fill with nonverbal praise and thanksgiving. Let distractions float by, even when they press upon you. After a while the distractions will seem less and less urgent as you let them go. Simply be with Jesus in this precious moment.
Then, gently and without fanfare, move on to the next ten minutes. Paul reminds us in Romans 9:25 that we too are destined to become the Beloved. Another color is added to the beauty of this scene:
Jesus, I am the Beloved.
Let your core-being soak up God’s favor. At first, this shift might seem jarring. But rest in the depth of prayer and let this truth settle in.
Then go on to the next ten minutes. I used to imagine that this part would be a distraction, but I have found it to be a rich and holy connection with others.
Prayer pointer: God always has and always will look for men and women who say to Him, ‘I trust you so much, I’m all in. I want your way not mine. I am willing to live by faith!’ ~Chip Ingram
Prayer “Starter”: This comes from Heartlight.org: Holy God, you are worthy of my life. Of all the competing voices vying for my time, attention, and money, you alone have shown a sacrificial love to redeem me. I trust your truth for my guide. As I seek to surrender to your will, please empower me to live with courage and conviction in a world which often hates and ridicules you. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: What are some of the distractions that are vying for your time, attention, or money? How can you bring those to the Lord more fully today?
Prayer Pointer: Drawing near is not moving from one place to another. It is a directing of the heart into the presence of God who is as distant as the holy of holies in heaven, and yet as near as the door of faith. He is commanding us to come. To approach him. To draw near to him. ~John Piper
O GOD OF MY DELIGHT, Your throne of grace is the pleasure ground of my soul. Here I obtain mercy in time of need, here see the smile of Your reconciled face, here joy pleads the Name of Jesus, here I sharpen the sword of the Spirit, anoint the shield of faith, put on the helmet of salvation, gather manna from Your Word, am strengthened for each conflict, nerved for the upward race, empowered to conquer every foe. Help me to come to Christ as the fountainhead of descending blessings, as a wide open flood-gate of mercy. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: How near do I draw to God? Is He calling me closer? What keeps me from coming boldly and confidently?
Prayer Pointer: If we humble not ourselves under God’s grace, he will humble us under his judgments. Those who patiently submit to him, he exalts in due time; if his hand be mighty to depress, it is also mighty to exalt. ~Clarke’s Commentary
Prayer “Starter”: This is from a prayer by Chuck Swindoll. Be sure to let it soak in and to add your prayers in response:
Teach us in these tender days the value of genuine humility—of a self-forgetful life. We ask this so that we might become for You messengers whose message makes sense because our lives are like Your Son’s life—the One who is gentle and humble of heart. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: This question causes us to “dive deep.” It comes from the Tozer Seminary blog.How does my humility compare to the Son’s humility in coming to earth?
Prayer Pointer: Jesus chose the figure of a vine for several reasons. The lowliness of a vine demonstrates His humility. It also pictures a close, permanent, vital union between the vine and branches. It is symbolic of belonging, because branches belong entirely to the vine; if branches are to live and bear fruit, they must completely depend on the vine for nourishment, support, strength, and vitality.~Grace to You
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help me and help my Christian brothers and sisters worldwide to stay connected to You as our “vine.” Forgive us of any self-sufficiency and remind us moment by moment that we are to depend upon You for strength, wisdom and courage. Thank You for never leaving us alone! As we surrender, help us to experience more of the “Christ-life” that indwells us by the Holy Spirit. (add your own prayers). SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Do you abide in Christ? What steps can you take to help you obey Jesus by abiding in Him?
Take some time this weekend for Sabbath, hopefully gathering with other believers for prayer, worship, fellowship. Consider doing a review of your week, going on a “God-hunt” to find the places where God has spoken and moved.
Think/Journal/Apply: Consider writing down a few things that you are grateful for from your “God-hunt.” Enjoy being with Him and don’t stress!
We’ll be back next week with more Bible and prayer prompts!
Dear Praying Friends, As we look to the end of summer 2023, let’s keep praying Kingdom prayers. I know that we all fight discouragement as the news rarely contains anything positive. But remember that the GOOD NEWS is that Jesus IS LORD! This month our theme will be SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as WE SURRENDER ALL! The word “surrender” may seem a bit intimidating but remember that in God’s Kingdom, the way down is the way up! (1 Peter 5:6) Let’s humble ourselves in prayer and keep pressing on! Blessings~Gina
Prayer Pointer: As Christians, we are to submit to the will of God, that which pleases Him, and pursue truth and righteousness above all else. In this pursuit, we may also cast our distress upon God as we trust in Him in complete surrender. ~From Bible Study Tools
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, as I submit to You, I thank You for giving me Your Spirit of power, love, and sound judgment. You know that sometimes I have been afraid to say that I surrender because that seems like a weak place to be. But I know You as a good Father who wants what is best for me. Help all of my brothers and sisters around the world to submit to Your leading today. Help us to cast all our cares on You, knowing that You care for us. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: What does the word “surrender” mean to you? Does it have a positive or negative connotation?
Prayer Pointer:If we are in any real sense joined to Christ, the power of His death makes us dead to self and sin and the world. ~MacLaren Exposition Of Holy Scripture
Prayer “Starter”: This prayer is an adaptation of one found at Knowing Jesus:
Thank You, Father, for Your indwelling Holy Spirit Who was sent to lead and guide me and all believers through this earthly life, and Who lives in me. Teach me to listen to His voice and recognize His promptings. I pray that more and more, Your will, not mine be done until I can say with Paul, “the life that I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, Who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Put Galatians 2:20 into your own words.
Prayer Pointer: Whether we like it or not, asking is the rule of the kingdom. ~Charles H. Spurgeon
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, remind me and my Christian brothers and sisters today and everyday that our contentment is not found in the things of this world. Help us to say with Paul, “…for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content…I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I am sorry for the places where we have looked to other people, circumstances, material possessions to be the well of our contentment. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Can you give any example where perhaps you were recently, or any time you can remember, not content? What caused this?
Prayer Pointer: Our God is a God of patience. We are often in such a hurry and God often seems to work too slowly for us. Often the purposes of God seem to be delayed but they always are fulfilled. God’s delays are not His denials, and He has a loving purpose in every delay.~Blue Letter Bible
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help me to use the strength that You have given me to serve my Christian brothers and sisters and even those who are outside the Church. I’m sorry for any where I’ve had a “holier than thou” attitude and that I’ve looked down on others. Help me to walk in humble servitude towards others, seeking to help elevate them to higher places with You. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
Think/Journal/Apply: Is there a place where you can support a weaker brother or sister with your strength in the Lord?
Use this weekend to “catch up” on prayer posts if you desire. Ask the Lord help you to physically rest and to be revived in Him. I hope you will meet with other believers in fellowship, study and prayer in a Bible-teaching church this weekend.
Think/Journal/Apply: Where has the Lord been working in your life this past week?
Check back next week for more Bible and prayer prompts!
Dear Praying Friends, The journey with this blog has been a “growing” experience. On so many platforms, we look for people to “like” our posts or to comment on them. One day recently, I was discouraged in writing and I said, “Lord, does this matter at all?” As He has in the past, He reminded me that it doesn’t matter if anyone reads this, it matters that I write it. This is an act of obedience. I hope that you will obey the Lord even in the things that don’t seem to matter to others. I believe that God’s favor follows acts of obedience. You never know how much an act of obedience can impact someone in a special way. So, this week, I continue to pray “SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!” I invite you to pray with me as you are able. Have a blessed week! ~Gina
Prayer pointer: “Despite the heaviness of David’s situation, he was confident that God had the perfect plan for him. We can be confident too. God has the perfect plan for our lives, and no enemy will stand in God’s way.” from 4 Reminders from Psalm 27 to Build a Courageous Faith
Prayer “Starter”: Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, help me in spite of the heavy situations that I face today, to seek You and Your Kingdom first. When I fret, remind me again that this world is not my home. I believe that Your plans are perfect for me and for my Christian brothers and sisters throughout the world. Especially help those who are being persecuted for their faith. Help each of us to have “ears to hear” what You are saying to us today. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: What is the “one thing” David is seeking after according to Psalm 27:4? How does his statement impact you personally?
Prayer Pointer: “One of the ways God heals the soul is by helping us get our minds off ourselves and onto what we can do for other people.” ~Joyce Meyer
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help me understand the importance of making myself available to help people with their difficulties in life, even if it means a sacrifice for me personally. Help me to take my eyes off of myself and to see the needs around me. Teach me what it means to help bear another’s burden and also help me to receive encouragement from others when I need it. As Your Kingdom advances in the earth, help the lost to see that Your people love well and serve well. And let our love draw others to You. Show me places where I can serve others. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: Is there an act of kindness that you can offer to someone in need this week?
Prayer Pointer: ” Simply to say prayers is not to pray; otherwise a team of properly trained parrots would serve as well as men in prayer.” ~C.S. Lewis
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, You showed us a beautiful example of what it means to be a humble servant. Help me, help my brothers and sisters throughout the world, to follow Your example. As we seek Your Kingdom first, help us to let go of our own desires to be filled with Yours! I’m sorry for the places where I’ve been selfish, not wanting to be a servant. Show me the tasks that you have assigned to me. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: Is there a place where I can serve someone today with Christ’s love?
Prayer Pointer: As Christ-followers, we serve a God who is not surprised at all by what we face each day. God is sovereign, so he knows all about panic, pandemics, chaos, and confusion. And he is with us no matter what we face.~ Anne Peterson on Crosswalk.com
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, as I rely on You today as my “Rock”, let all fear be replaced with Your supernatural peace. Please help my brothers and sisters around the world to rely on Your strength in the midst of difficulties. I call to You today as my refuge and fortress. Thank You, dear Savior! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: What other names for God do you find in Psalm 18:2-3?
Prayer Pointer: As Christians we may trip and fall, but as we follow God he will make our way secure. ~Amy Boucher Pye in A Devotional for the Week
Prayer “Starter”: Thank You, Lord, for walking right beside me in this life’s journey. Keep my feet in Your paths. I give You these “uncertainties” today(name them), trusting that You will show me the way through them to the “other side.” (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: Write a “thank you” note to the Lord!
Prayer “Starter”: Take some time to rest this weekend. Use this time to “catch up” on prayer posts if you desire. Continue to ask the Lord how you can seek His Kingdom FIRST in all of your life adventures. SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: If you are keeping a journal, summarize how You have seen the Lord working in your life this week. Are there any tangible steps you can take as you consider these things?
Prayer Pointer: Jesus taught us to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). This is praying for a day when God will bring heaven to earth and bring His rule on this planet. God still has a plan for planet Earth. He will rule and reign here, and as believers, we will rule and reign with Him. ~Christianity.com
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, I want to pray “Kingdom first” prayers everyday. Direct my heart and my thoughts back to Your Word so that I know that I’m praying in Your will. Help me to seek You with my whole heart, soul, mind and strength. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Coming in August: SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SURRENDER ALL!
I recently read a devotional thought by Joyce Meyer that really confirmed that I need to do more “Kingdom First” praying! In her devotional book, New Day, New You…366 Devotions for Enjoying Everyday Life,she says: “Too often we spend all of our time seeking God for answers to our problems when what we should be doing is just seeking God…Do you realize that you don’t even have to worry about your own spiritual growth? All you need to do is seek the Kingdom, and you will grow. Seek God, abide in Him, and He will cause increase and growth.” Good and CONVICTING thoughts, right? I personally have to battle anxiety often. I believe that as I keep seeking Him, anxiety will have to go! Let’s keep praying “Kingdom First” prayers! This week’s scriptures will focus on dealing with anxiety in a fear-driven world. Blessings~Gina
Prayer Pointer: “Running from God does not help us to be at peace with Him.” ~Joyce Meyer
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, when I am anxious, help me to not run from You but to run to You. Turn on the “searchlight” in my heart and show me the source of my anxiety. As you reveal, help me to lay each care at Your feet. And I pray this for my friends and family, too (name them if you feel led) I continue to seek You, knowing that You will add everything I need. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/ journal/apply: How are you dealing with your anxiety?
Prayer Pointer: “Jesus encourages us to yoke ourselves to Him so that we can find rest from carrying heavy burdens.” (Matthew 11:28-30)” ~fromPraying through Anxietyfrom the American Bible Society.
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, as I yoke myself to You, I trust You to help me bear the burdens of this life in Your strength. Bring fresh faith and courage to my Christian brothers and sisters. Help us in a world that is increasingly opposed to You. Empower us to continue to stand boldly for what we know is truth. You are TRUTH! (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: Do you struggle to trust God? Why?
Prayer Pointer: “Jesus doesn’t want you to face life’s trials and worries alone. He offers to walk alongside you as your comfort, strength and hope.” ~from Praying through Anxiety from the American Bible Society
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, forgive me for trying to carry life’s burdens without You. Help me and all my Christian brothers and sisters to cast our cares upon You. Thank You for Your loving care for us. Remind us often that we are never alone. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: Do you believe God is mighty enough to deal with your challenging circumstances?
As you have time: Check out some Christian podcasts on overcoming anxiety here.
Prayer Pointer: Jesus loves you. He does not intend for you to be crushed by anxiety. He overcame death itself! You can live with the assurance that he can overcome anything, including anxiety. ~from Praying through Anxietyby the American Bible Society
Prayer “Starter”: Father, I confess I want to be free from anxiety. Make me willing to take the steps necessary to face anxiety head-on. I need faith to believe that I can truly be healed. When anxiety attacks, help me to hold onto this promise: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6. In this fear-driven world, remind me to take every anxious thought captive through prayer. Help my brothers and sisters throughout this world to turn all their fears over to You today. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: In the passage from Psalm 142 above, the psalmist tells God about all his troubles. Have you done that?
Prayer Pointer: ” Our prayers may be awkward. Our attempts may be feeble. But since the power of prayer is in the one who hears it and not the one who says it, our prayers do make a difference.” ~Max Lucado
Prayer “Starter”: Father, thank you for being a safe place for me to bring all my concerns. I am anxious again as I face ______________. Help me depend on you, God, to be my strong protector. I pray for your peace as I face circumstances I can’t control. Today, I place my hope in you and your infinite wisdom and power. As we watch disturbing events unfold in our world, remind me and my Christian brothers and sisters that You have already won this battle. Help us to be about our Father’s “business” each and every day. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: What will it look like for you to take a step toward depending on God today?
As you have time: Read Psalm 62:5-8 Look for instruction from the Lord, things to confess and places to give thanks. Write your own prayer based on your findings.
Prayer “Starter”: Take some time to rest this weekend. Use this time to “catch up” on prayer posts if you desire. Continue to ask the Lord how you can seek His Kingdom FIRST in all of your life adventures. SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/apply: If you are keeping a journal, summarize how You have seen the Lord working in your life this week. Are there any tangible steps you can take as you consider these things?
I was listening to the song “Waymaker” this past week and the words “Even when I can’t see that You’re working, Even when I don’t feel that You’re working, You never stop, You never stop working.” This was a great reminder for me! Somedays I wonder what God is up to, but I know Him as a trustworthy God and so I wait on Him. I hope that You know that you can trust Him. The scriptures I’ve chosen for this week have to do with God’s “workings.” Let’s keep praying “Kingdom First” prayers! Blessings, Gina
Prayer pointer: “He that keeps Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps. God doesn’t take any day off. God is working in the lives of His people all the time.” ~Chuck Smith
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, I forget sometimes that You are always at work in me and in my church. Forgive me for when I forget this important truth. You never slumber nor sleep. Even though I can’t always see how You are working, I put my trust in You again today. (add your own prayer) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD…as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: How can I participate in God’s “work” in the earth?
Prayer Pointer: “God’s good-will to us, is the cause of his good work in us.” ~Matthew Henry
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, thank You for Your good work in me. Help me and my Christian brothers and sisters to cooperate with the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Forgive us when we grieve You. I confess that sometimes I am afraid to join You in Your work because… (add your thoughts). Empower me by the Holy Spirit to say “yes” to You everyday. (add any other prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD…as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: Is the Lord prompting You to serve Him in some tangible way today?
Prayer “starter”: Lord, help me to see more clearly that You work through me and through my brothers and sisters in different ways. You have made us all for different purposes in Your Kingdom plan. Help us to work together in YOUR WORK! Lead us in Holy Spirit unity! (add your prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD…as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: Do you struggle when people do things differently than you do? Talk to the Lord about this.
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, as I continue to meditate on Your good work in my life today, I thank You for calling me for Your good purposes. When things don’t go as I expect, remind me that You are working things out for my good. Open my eyes to see the wonders of Your work around me today. (add your prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD…as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: As you take a moment to remember God’s blessings, complete this statement: “Lord, as I look at my life, I thank You for these wonderful things…” (name them)
As you have time: If you want to learn more about scripture journaling, check out this resource from Bible Gateway: Journaling Scripture Practice Tips
Prayer “Starter”: This is an adaptation of a prayer found here…
Lord, We take great comfort in the knowledge that you are the same God Who has rescued us and given us the great gift of salvation through Jesus our Lord. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God revealed and given glory by Jesus, your beloved Son, the God of Power and Might, of Majesty and Magnificence. We dwell upon all the wondrous works of your hands and render our gratitude, in songs of praise, for you are our refuge, you are the Ever living God who comforts and assuages our pain in our trials, and with invigorated faith we will give you acclaim amongst all people, spreading the good news of your gospel and glorifying you endlessly, through Jesus Christ our Lord. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD…as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: In Psalm 77:10, the psalmist is expressing anguish. Is there anywhere that you are experiencing anguish? How can remembering God’s wonderful works on your behalf help you today?
Prayer “Starter”: Take some time to rest this weekend. Use this time to “catch up” on prayer posts if you desire. Continue to ask the Lord how you can seek His Kingdom FIRST in all of your life adventures. SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/apply: If you are keeping a journal, summarize how You have seen the Lord working in your life this week. Are there any tangible steps you can take as you consider these things?
I help with the prayer ministry at our church and I have a heart to see EVERY CHURCH become a House of Prayer. In June 2023, I started posting daily Bible and prayer prompts and I feel I should continue this month. But I feel that I should offer these encouragements in prayer beyond the prayer ministry in my own church. We are the Church together and there is power in prayer! I hope that you will join me in prayers of agreement this month as we pray “Kingdom First” prayers. (Matthew 6:33) The world is getting darker and darker, but we know that Jesus is Lord and that He has already gained victory over the forces of darkness. Let’s continue to ask Him to show us His glory, as we pray together this month! Blessings~Gina
Prayer “Starter”: Take some time to rest this weekend. While doing this, ask the Lord how you can seek His Kingdom FIRST in all of your life adventures. SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD as WE SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/apply: If you are keeping a journal, write down thoughts that are prompted by your prayers for “Kingdom First” attitudes. Is there a step that you can take to apply these thoughts?
Prayer Pointer: “God has a plan for His Church upon earth. But alas! We too often make our plan, and we think that we know what ought to be done. We ask God first to bless our feeble efforts, instead of absolutely refusing to go unless God go before us.” ~Andrew Murray
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, forgive me for where I have not been seeking Your plans over my own. Help me to surrender my life for Your use and to keep on praying for Your Kingdom to come and Your will to be done in my life and in the lives of my brothers and sisters in Christ. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as we seek YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: Where are you relying on your own strength and not the Lord’s strength?
Prayer Pointer: Today we celebrate the day that the Declaration of Independence was ratified in 1776. America is 247 years old today. Many of us long for revival in America, but 2 Chronicles 7:14 tells us that revival really begins with God’s people. As you pray for our Nation today, let’s pray that we will all seek God’s plans and purposes.
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help every Christian to humbly seek You and to turn from sinful ways. Let us truly be the “light of the world” to those in our cities, states, and Nation. Move powerfully within Your Church across America empowering us to fulfill Your Great Commission. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: Do you see yourself as one of His people? How does 2 Chronicles 7:14 speak to you?
Prayer Pointer: “Mark it down. God never turns away the honest seeker. Go to God with your questions. You may not find all the answers, but in finding God, you know the One who does.” ~Max Lucado in Walking with the Savior
Prayer “Starter”: from Max Lucado in God’s Inspirational Promise Book We pray, O Father, that in the hours when we find ourselves in the dungeons of doubt, that you will hear our questions. Forgive us for demanding that you answer our questions as we want them answered. Decrease our doubt; increase our faith. (add your own prayers). SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/Journal/Apply: Are you facing fears about the future or doubts about God’s goodness? Talk to Him!
Prayer Pointer: ” When we pray the words of this doxology, we not only acknowledge God’s power; we are also making a statement of faith: ‘Because yours is the kingdom, the power, the glory, O God, I know that you are with me and hear my prayer. I know that you are able to provide for our daily needs. I know that you can rescue us from evil. I know that you forgive the debts that imprison us, freeing us to spread that forgiveness to others.'” Adam Hamilton in The Lord’s Prayer, The Meaning and Power of the Prayer Jesus Taught
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, help me to seek Your Kingdom, not build my own. Teach Your Church throughout the earth to be Kingdom-minded. Help us to care about what You care about and empower us to tell others of the wonders of Your Kingdom. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as we SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think, Journal, apply: Where would you like to be more Kingdom-minded? Ask the Lord for help.
Prayer “Starter”: Lord, please show me what it means to take refuge in You. I want to rejoice in You! I want the praise of Your Holy Name to be upon my lips. (add your own prayers) SHOW US YOUR GLORY, LORD, as WE SEEK YOUR KINGDOM FIRST!
Think/journal/apply: Write down some places where you have experienced God’s protection.
Take some time this weekend to “catch up” on posts and to rest. Revisit your past prayer life this week, noting where the Lord is growing you into a Kingdom prayer warrior! Blessings, Gina
Rhythms of Grace 