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February Prayers for Evangelical Christians

February 1

by Ed Vasicek

 

Creator of All,

 

I praise You that literally everything that I see has been made by You. The only thing not made by You is You, the uncreated One. All creation occurred by a conversation within the Persons of the Godhead. You said, "Let us make man," or "Let there be light." And by Your Word, You created all things out of nothing. You created space, dimension, time, matter, and spirit beings: angels. Then You created man, a being who is both physical and spiritual.

 

Although we humans cannot create something out of nothing, we do recombine what You have created. In that sense, we too are creative. When our creativity is wholesome, it showcases Your image in us. Help me, therefore, to welcome godly creativity and to nurture it in my life. Help me to think outside the box.

 

Thank You, Lord, that creation is heading somewhere. We wait for the return of Christ to rule during the Kingdom Age, and we anticipate the New Heavens and the New Earth.

 

I ask You to help me to think as a Christian should. Help me renew my mind. When I am anxious, help me present my burdens to You and trade them for Your peace. May I have Your calm when appropriate, and Your zeal and energy when appropriate.

 

Lord, I empty myself before You so that Your Spirit may fill me. I find my strength in His power, not my own. May Your Spirit control me today.

 

Lord, thank You for working in the African Republic of Benin. Even though only about 4% of the population claims to be born-again, the number of believers is rising sharply. Thank You for using the Jesus film and youth ministries to bring in the harvest. We pray that the church in Benin would become the strongest in Africa, and that the believers there would be bold and consistent. Lord, there are many completely unreached people groups in Benin; burden the Christians there to reach out to them.

 

Father, I remember Chosen People Ministries, as they seek to share Yeshua (Jesus) with the Jewish people. We pray that growing numbers would receive Him as Messiah. Bless their efforts, give them wisdom, and provide them with much fruit for their labors.

 

Today I remember our nation's teachers: public school teachers, private school teachers, home schooling parents, and tutors. It is more and more difficult to teach children in groups these days because of all the broken homes. May our teachers feel appreciated.

 

Direct my paths this day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 2

by Ed Vasicek

 

El Shaddai,

 

You are pure. You are not corrupted in any way or by any means. You are not mostly pure but completely pure. There is no sin within You; You are completely light with not even a hint of darkness. Lord, You are very much unlike us, a people of unclean lips who dwell among a people of unclean lips. Even the good we do is often contaminated by sin or ulterior motives. But You are completely innocent of all wrongdoing.

 

Thank You for the stewardship You have given me. You gave Adam and Eve the responsibility to reign over the earth. Help me to be faithful to the degree of my influence to rule well. Help me realize that all that I have belongs to You; I may possesses it, but I do not own it. And one day, I will give an account for what I did with what You gave me.

 

Part of the stewardship You have given me is managing my funds. Help me to be wise in this area, to faithfully support Your church, and to manage my money in a way that bears testimony to the fact that this world is not my home. May my integrity and value system be such that others know that I do not associate money with happiness, and I take seriously the command to owe no one anything.

 

And so, Lord, I pray that You would help me to be properly responsible. Help me gladly accept the responsibilities of my station in life, but help me not feel false guilt for that which is not my responsibility.

 

I ask You, Lord, to help me get along with all of my family members. Sometimes this is not possible, but help me to walk the extra mile and to pursue peace--but not to the point of being taken advantage of beyond that extra mile.

 

Father, today I pray for the nation of Bermuda. The country is fairly wealthy, and many of them, nearly 20%, claim to know Jesus. Lord, help the Christians in Bermuda to be burdened for missions. Help the evangelical churches to work together for common causes that would benefit Your kingdom. Lord, infuse the church in Bermuda with Your Spirit's power and zeal.

 

Today we pray for Christar Mission in their attempts to reach the least-reached people throughout the world, including Asia and Africa. The challenge is great, the dangers many, and the resources never enough.  We pray that the missionaries would work together harmoniously and efficiently, that You would open the doors and prepare the hearts, and may many, many come to Christ and mature through their efforts.

 

We pray for the CEOs of our towns, villages, and cities. Whether we call them mayors or presidents, please, may many come to know You, espouse Your values, and influence their communities in accord with Your will and the good of the region.

 

Shower Your grace on me today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 3

by Ed Vasicek

 

God my Father,

 

You are light, and in You is no darkness at all! You are pure, You are overpowering, You are distinct from Your creation. You entertain no dark ways. We have a dark side to us, hearts that are deceitful and desperately wicked. But You have no dark side, not hidden evils, not corrupt ways. You are light, and You shed light upon those who humble themselves before You. You expose us – and all creation – for what it is. Because You are light, we cannot hide from You.

 

I thank You, Lord, that Your Spirit is convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Thank You that Your Spirit also restrains evil. We appreciate that, though men and women without Christ are lost, they are still in Your image, damaged as that image is because of the Fall. Therefore, things are not nearly as bad as they could be.

 

Lord, help me be a person of discernment. There are many false teachings out there, many schemes to trick or confuse me. Help me not be gullible but discerning, discreet, and perceptive. Many I know the truth so well that I easily recognize error.

 

Father, I pray for the health needs of friends and family members, including: ______________. I also pray for a few other needs: ______________.

 

Today I pray for the Asian nation of Bhutan. Less than one half of one percent of the people are born-again. Such a small number! We know that it is against the law to try to convert a Buddhist or Hindu in the Buddhist monarchy. Christians are barely tolerated, demonism abounds, and this nation is one of the least evangelized in the world. We know the country is closed to missionaries. Help the Christians to share Christ, and help the church there to grow exponentially. Bless the evangelists from India who reach out near the border areas.

 

I pray for Crossover Communications as they train and multiply church planters in Russia, Georgia, Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and the Ukraine. May their work be effective, their cooperation exemplary, their fruit monumental. May Your Spirit pave the way as they seek to establish local churches in this region. May the churches flourish, and, dear Lord, please raise up individuals for this task.

 

Today we pray for school principals everywhere. May many come to know and follow You, and help them to influence others for Christ. May they promote values that honor You and bless others.

 

And now, Lord, remind me of Your presence throughout my day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 4

by Ed Vasicek

 

My Father in heaven,

 

Lord, You are described in many ways, and one of them is as a "consuming fire." As a fire is pure, so You are completely clean and holy. As a consuming fire cannot be quenched, so You have infinite energy and none can stand in Your way. As a fire separates the impurities from fine gold, so Your gaze sees through all and sorts through all. As a fire represents Your wrath and judgment, so it is right for all creation to fear You.

 

Father, I thank You that one day Jesus Christ shall return to the clouds, and we will meet Him in the air. The dead will be raised and those of Your children alive on earth will be changed into immortality as they ascend upward to meet You, all in the twinkling of an eye. We eagerly await this "blessed hope."

 

So, Lord, help me to have endurance as I wait for Christ's return. Sometimes life becomes overwhelming and I become disappointed in circumstances, disappointed with people, and, frankly, disappointed with myself. Sometimes, I confess, I even feel disappointed with You. So help me to endure, to persevere in faithfully serving You, because I know my labor in You is not in vain.

 

Lord, I have many things for which I can thank You. A few of them are: ______________.

 

Father, help me to be content with the things I have and my lot in life. At the same time, help me take initiative and deliver me from passivity. Help me not be like the servant who fearfully hid his talents. Help me to boldly invest myself in Your work. Keep me from comparing my skills and talents to others.

 

Today I pray for the nation of Bolivia. Thank You for the 12% of the population who claim to be born-again, and we pray that that percentage will soon reach 30. We are grateful, Lord, for the growth You have given the Bolivian Church. But we know that the major income for many Bolivians is growing coca and cocaine. Christians are stressed: if they grow cocaine, they can support their families; if they do not, they live in poverty. We pray that You would make a way for the believers to provide well for their families while not violating their consciences at the same time.

 

Today I remember the ministry of CrossWorld, formerly known as UFM. As their 400 missionaries help reach and disciple thousands, we pray that You would keep them walking with You, true to Your Word, safe, and amply supplied. May Your Spirit bless their labors, and help them to relate well to one another in ways that please You.

 

We pray for our nation's emergency radio dispatchers and those who work the 911 emergency lines. Give them accuracy, clarity, and wisdom. We pray that many would come to know You.

 

Strengthen me for the challenges of this day, and, Lord, help me to apply my heart toward wisdom, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

February 5

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great God and Father,

 

I celebrate Jesus Christ as my Great High Priest. Because God the Son became a man, He can understand my human weaknesses and the plight of life in a fallen world. Because the Son of Man is also the Son of God, He is the perfect High Priest, completely experiencing both divinity and humanity.

 

Therefore, Father, He presents my needs before Your throne. But unlike human high priests, He is neither sinful, mortal, nor limited. He not only offers sacrifices, He IS the sacrifice!

 

Thank You that the church is built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets (Ephesians 2:20). A foundation is only laid once, and they did so. We now have that foundation in Your written Word, the Bible. Like the Berean believers, help us to use the Scriptures to prove whether a teaching is true or false.

 

Lord, as Your child, You call upon me to be light in this dark world. Actually, I am to reflect Your light as I am transformed, moment-by-moment. May I cultivate Your daily transforming grace.

 

Your Word tells me that if I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me of them, and You will cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). So I bring my sins before You now. I do not excuse them, but I freely admit them and ask for Your forgiveness. They include: ______________.

 

Lord, help me to control my moods and attitudes by conviction and Your Spirit. Help me not to anchor myself in the vacillation of feelings, but in the bedrock of truth. Help me to do Your will, whether I feel like it or not.

 

Father, I pray for the tragic nation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This land has been devastated by war and bitter hatred between people groups. The poverty is unimaginable. The spiritual darkness is even greater, with less than one in a thousand people claiming to be born-again. Thank You, Lord, the number of churches has grown since the war, however, and thank You that the small evangelical church has a good reputation for being a fellowship of racial reconciliation. Help the church to multiply one hundred fold over the next twenty years, I pray.

 

I ask You, Lord, to prosper the missionaries from the European Christian Mission. Help them as they partner with the evangelical churches of Europe to share Christ and disciple believers on the continent. Break the bonds of secular humanism and anti-supernaturalism; may the number of believers in Europe double within the next decade.

 

Today I pray for those who organize chambers of commerce and downtown organizations that help nurture prosperity and business within a community. Help them to uphold businesses that will add positive contributions to a community but to hinder businesses that would offend You.

 

Help me to walk with You this day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 6

by Ed Vasicek

 

Mighty God, Abba Father,

 

I thank You that Your Son took upon Himself the role of Savior. A savior is one who delivers or saves another from danger or disaster. The Lord Jesus Christ is our Savior from sin and from Your wrath. Our sin provokes You to anger and demands justice. Our Savior has delivered us from the demands of Your justice by satisfying the just penalty for our sins. He did this while on the cross, when He – the sinless one – became sin for us. Thank you that He bore our sin in His body on the tree.

 

Father, I thank You that You have grace for all. Your common grace causes it to rain for the just and the unjust. You feed the birds and sustain life, though You have no obligation to do so. Your special grace is showered upon those who know You.

 

Help me to respond to Your grace by trusting You, and thereby I affirm Your character and glorify You. As I experience Your saving grace and Your sustaining grace, help me, in turn, to be gracious to others, not exacting my due.

 

Lord, I have many needs to bring before Your throne. Provide me with people who will support me in life’s bad times and celebrate with me during life’s good times. I have many other needs, a few of which include: ______________.

 

Today I pray for the nation of Iran. This country, formerly known as Persia, has a long history. Unfortunately, there are very few in this land who know Jesus Christ as personal Savior. Lord, change the government in this land and establish one that recognizes human rights, including the right to share and propagate religious beliefs that are not in the majority. Help the few Christians there to be wise, and open doors for the Gospel. Bless radio broadcasts and other avenues of communication for the Gospel. May the number of believers in Iran increase exponentially.

 

Lord, today I remember FIM, The Fellowship International Mission. Bless them as they minister to difficult areas, like Morocco and Niger. Missionaries serve on a number of continents, and are doing a vital work. Please, Lord, give them fruit for their labor, safety, provision, and help them to relate well and work with one another well. May Your Spirit use them greatly as they share the faith and disciple believers.

 

I also remember the counselors in our community, especially the Christian ones. Help them to direct their clients into Your truth, and may they impact many lives for the good.

 

Now bless me this day, I pray, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

 

February 7

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great God,

 

You are Adonai, You are Lord of the Estate known as all creation! You are the Master, You have dominion over all things and are worthy of our allegiance, respect, and obedience. You own all.

Although we possess many things for a time as Your stewards, we own nothing. You are the Lord Adonai, our true and most worthy King and Master.

 

Lord, thank You for saving me from sin. Sin is not just what I do, it is also what I fail to do to please You. Sin is not just my action, but it is part of my nature. My heart is deceitful and desperately wicked.

My attitude is contaminated by sin, so it is out of my heart that sinful actions flow. As You help me grow, my new nature becomes more dominant, and my heart of flesh begins to overtake my heart of stone. Help me to remember that sin is not just what I do, but it is part of who I am, the old me.

 

So, Lord, I want to see more holiness in my life. I want to be set apart for Your use, and I want You to feel completely at home in my life. Help me to be special for You.

 

Today I pray for my marriage (if I am married) and the marriages of those around me. Marriage has fallen on rough times, but it is near to Your heart, since You instituted it. Help me to encourage growth in my own marriage (if I am married), to find the right mate (if that is Your will), or to be content with my single estate (if that is Your will). But whatever my lot, help me to be social and proactive, because I cannot really love people if I evade them.

 

Help me be alert to Satan's schemes. Help me to take up the full armor of God and to draw near to You, O Lord. Help me to resist the devil, and he will flee. Place a hedge around me so the evil one cannot hinder my service to You, Father.

 

Thank You for the African country of Botswana. Although the Gospel has penetrated this society, the church is often made up of nominal Christians. AIDS is a serious problem in this country, and churches that promise healing are drawing people away from more Biblically-based congregations. Tribal religions are often unyielding to the Gospel, and many Botswanians combine Christian belief with tribal religion and superstition. Help the truly saved to become firm and uncompromising in their beliefs. May Christians maintain a high moral standard and may they participate in Biblically sound congregations. May the number of genuine believers double over the next five years, and Lord, please raise up strong leaders from within the church there.

 

Today I pray for Galcom International as they supply equipment to help reach people with the Gospel, particularly through short wave radio opportunities. They have provided 400,000 fix-tuned radios in 117 countries, radios that remained tuned to Christian stations only. As a result, thousands are being reached and discipled. Provide for this ministry in every way: financially, relationally, and spiritually. Use them to impact many for Jesus Christ.

 

Today I pray for our local district attorneys. These individuals perform an important function as they seek to keep criminals behind bars. Help them to seek justice and have your priorities. Keep them from wrongly condemning the innocent, and give them wisdom in rightfully and successfully prosecuting the guilty.

 

Lord, this world is challenging. Help me never to fear, but to remember that You are by my side.

I pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

February 8

by Ed Vasicek

 

Precious Lord,

 

You are Yahweh, the great I AM. When Moses asked Your Name, You told Him, "I AM." I Am that I Am is Who You are, the eternal God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You had no beginning, and time is nothing to You because You transcend it. You are not, "I Was," nor are You, "I Will Be," but "I AM."

 

As Jesus said, "Before Abraham was, I AM" (John 8:58), thus identifying Himself as Yahweh, the LORD. Although You have many titles, the Name by which You are known is YAHWEH. We so reverence that Name that we translate it as LORD, all in upper case letters.

 

Lord, You have been good to me. I am grateful for your blessings, a few of them include: _____________________.

 

I praise You and am overjoyed that You have adopted me into Your family. We all dread being alone, and had You not adopted me, my future would be a lonely eternity indeed. Thank You that now I will enjoy Your company, the company of other believers, and even myriads of angels. I am so glad to be in Your family.

 

Help me, Lord, to reflect the family to which I belong, the family of God. May others see Christ in me. Help me to be both bold and kind, realistic yet a person of faith.

 

Lord, I empty myself before You so that Your Spirit may fill me. I find my strength in His power, not my own. May Your Spirit control me today.

 

Dear God, help me to find meaning in the details of life. Sometimes I wonder what the purpose of it all is. Yet I remember that even the little things of life bring You glory. So help me not get discouraged or demoralized.

 

Today I pray for the large nation of Brazil. Lord, You have drawn many people to Yourself in that land, but many evangelical churches are shallow and legalistic. Pastors are often untrained, and there are a lot of ego issues that Satan uses to break up unity or justify sinful behavior. Help the believers in Brazil to espouse Christianity worth reproducing. Thank You for the increased training of leaders through Bible Institutes and seminaries.

 

Today I remember Global Outreach Mission and their 346 missionaries serving in 39 countries around the world. Help them as they share the Good News of Jesus Christ and make disciples. Keep them true to You, help the missionaries to get along well with one another, provide for them, dear Lord, spiritually, financially, and with Your Spirit's power. Keep them safe, and may the individual families be strong.

 

Today I remember those who work in the food service industry. Help Christians who are employed in this area to be a good testimony and to demonstrate a servant's heart that glorifies God.

 

Help me to depend upon Your supply of grace this day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 9

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great Father,

 

You are El Shaddai, God Almighty. You are not merely a strong God, You are infinitely strong. The billions of stars in billions of galaxies were merely spoken into being. Nothing is too difficult to You. You have packed more energy in a single atom than we expend in our entire lifetime. Unlike the false gods of this world, You can deliver on Your promises.

 

Since You are all powerful, I can bring my request before You and submit them to Your will, confident that my requests which are consistent with Your plans will be addressed. They include: __________________.

 

Lord, I thank You for the angels You have created. They are ministering spirits, ministering to us, the heirs of salvation. Please send guardian angels to watch over my loved ones and me.

 

Dear God, help me to have a heart and mind that want to learn. Help me participate in church not just to get a spiritual lift, but also to serve and to learn and grow.

 

I am a needy person. I ask that You would give me peace of mind as I struggle through life. Help me offer my fears and worries to You and leave them before Your throne.

 

Today, Lord, I pray for the nation of the British Virgin Islands. Although over a fourth of the population claim to know you, and 86% profess some sort of Christianity, yet 75% of the births are out of wedlock. We pray that the profession of believers would better match their walk, and that you would help them to grow in spiritual maturity and stay pure in a tourist area famous for worldly pleasures.

 

I ask Your to bless Greater Europe Mission as they send out college students, short-term and long-term missionaries in an attempt to reclaim Europe for Christ. We pray that these individuals would have a positive influence upon the Kingdom of God, encouraging local Christians, witnessing and discipling others. May Your Spirit prepare and use Greater Europe Mission, and may You revive Your church in Europe, partly through their efforts.

 

Today I thank You for those who assure the quality of our water or provide water service. We thank You for blessing us with this necessity, we pray that they would find fulfillment in their work, and that those who know You would share the good news with fellow workers.

 

Now, Mighty One, help me find my strength in You today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 10

by Ed Vasicek

 

Good Lord,

 

Thank You for being so longsuffering. Although You become angry and You express Your wrath, revealing it from heaven, You delay Your anger. You are patient, not willing for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. You have put up with me as well, tolerating my stubborn heart and nurturing me toward growth. Thank You that You are not quick-tempered, nor do You ever act unreasonably.

 

Your Word tells me that if I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me of them, and You will cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). So I bring my sins before You now. I do not excuse them, but I freely admit them and ask for Your forgiveness.

 

Father, thank You that the Lord Jesus, after dying once for all mankind and at one point in time, ascended back into heaven, never to die again. As the risen victor, He sits at Your right hand and prays for us and defends us against the devil's accusations.

 

Help me, Lord, to likewise be on the lookout for ways I can help my brothers and sisters in Christ. My life is so busy, and sometimes I feel pulled in too many directions. But help me to care about others.

That brings me to setting priorities. Help me to seek Your kingdom and righteousness first, and then I will be able to view the rest of life from the right perspective.

 

Lord, I remember the small nation of Brunei, near Indonesia. This is an oil-wealthy country ruled by a sultan who might be the richest man in the world. The Christians in this land are finding it more and more difficult to live their faith. Islam is the state religion – and Muslim activists are pushing to make Brunei 100% Muslim. What freedoms are left from the past are being eliminated. We thank You that about 5% of the people in Brunei claim to be born-again, and we pray that their numbers might double.

 

We also pray that the government would recognize the rights of its people to freely choose and share religious beliefs.

 

Today I pray for World Missionary Radio Fellowship, HCJB. Thank You for their many years of radio transmissions around the world. Thank You for their facility in Quito, Ecuador, and the multitudes of people who hear the Gospel and grow in the Lord through this strategic ministry. Provide harmony to all who make up the organizations, finances, and, most importantly, the backing of Your Holy Spirit.

 

Also bless the mail carriers and postal workers who provide such an important service to the rest of us.

May many come to know You, and may those who do freely share their faith.

 

Lord, guide me in all my choices today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

February 11

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great God,

 

Thank You, Father, that You are a Teacher. As Your Word states, You, "instruct us in the way we should go." You counsel us, You lead us, and, by Your Spirit, You penetrate our hearts and minds. You are constantly developing us, teaching us, and leading us. You are the ultimate Teacher. It amazes me that You even want to tutor me. Help me to be a wiling and motivated student!

 

I pray for my lost friends and family members, including: __________. Father, please send Your Spirit to draw them to Yourself and grant them the repentance that leads to life.

 

Lord, thank You that you have given us all things richly to enjoy. Although the comforts of this world can distract us, there is no virtue in denying ourselves the wholesome pleasures of life. Treating ourselves harshly does nothing to make us more godly (Colossians 2:23). Yet, Lord, You do want me to have self-control, a part of the fruit of Your Spirit. So help me to learn to be moderate in all things.

 

Almighty One, help me to feel well today. Check pain and illness, if this is Your will. Although sometimes You use bodily weaknesses to help us depend upon You, or You allow us to experience them as those who share in the consequences of the curse (for our bodies are not yet redeemed – Romans 8:23-24), yet it is also true that sometimes we have not because we ask not. So I am asking.

 

Today I pray for the nation of Bulgaria in Eastern Europe. Only about 2 percent of the population claims to be born-again, and the Orthodox Church has campaigned against evangelicals, accusing us of being cannibals and tied to the criminal element. Please stop these slanders and multiply the evangelical church tenfold over the next decade. Help the leaders to mature, and provide for them.

 

Today we pray for InterAct Ministries as they reach people around the top of the North Pacific Ocean including Alaska, parts of Canada and parts of Russia. Many of these are indigenous people who have not been evangelized. Bless their staff, missionaries, and ministries. Help them work together well, to be personally strong in You, and to be blessed by Your Spirit with much fruit for their labors.

 

Today I pray for those who work to make traffic control efficient and safe.

 

Help me bring the joy of Jesus to others today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 12

by Ed Vasicek

 

Gracious Father,

 

Thank You that You always stand ready to forgive. The only condition for the believer is confession, a repentant spirit. For those who do not know You, it is repentance toward You and faith in the Person and Work of our Lord Jesus Christ. When we trust Christ, all our sins are legally forgiven. When we sin as believers, sin causes relational problems with You, a tension in our relationship. Even though we are secure in You, sin creates an obstacle to our fellowship. When we confess our wrong, You immediately forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We forgive others, with Your help, in the same way.

 

So, Father, teach me not only to forgive the repentant, but also to be able to ask for forgiveness. When I sin against another, help me not to justify or rationalize it, but to isolate my wrong from whatever wrongs may have been done against me. Help me to say, "What I did was wrong, please forgive me" and nothing more. If others have wronged me, help me to address that at a separate time. May I be good at knowing how to ask for forgiveness. And, as I grow, may I have less to repent!

 

Lord, I am thankful for many things, three of which are: _______________.

 

Lord, I empty myself before You so that Your Spirit may fill me. I find my strength in His power, not my own. May Your Spirit control me today. Help me not to grieve Him, but rather to give Him complete control of who I am and what I do.

 

Today I pray for the African nation of Burkina Faso. Thank You that about 8 percent of the population claim to be born-again, and thank You for the growth of the Gospel in some areas. At the same time, Lord, Islam is gaining converts in the north of the country. This nation is impoverished, prone to drought and famine. Unemployment and illiteracy are high. The missionaries have a rough task cut out for them. Make them effective, provide health, finances, and harmony for them; may Your Spirit fill them and empower them; help them walk closely with You and not get discouraged with the monumental challenges before them. We pray that You would continue to use the Jesus Film, that You would raise up strong and solid leaders and training facilities, and that the church would multiply in both numbers and depth.

 

Today we remember Interserve, a network of Christians from all over the world who, using their professional skills, work together to serve people of Asia and the Arab world – getting alongside them in tackling material, physical, mental and spiritual needs. Bless them as they reach out with the love of God in sometimes difficult situations. Give them tact, wisdom, safety, and fruit for their labors.

 

Today we remember all those who manage our personnel departments. We know it takes compassion and professionalism to do this job well, and we pray that you would bless these people-helpers with discernment and wisdom. May many come to know You.

 

Again, Lord, I ask You to prosper my ways today, for I pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 13

by Ed Vasicek

 

Dear Abba,

 

Thank You that You fill all in all. Although You are separate from Your creation, You are present everywhere and although space is simply a created entity of Your pleasure, the entire universe cannot contain You, O Lord.

 

Thank You, Lord, that You created man in Your image. We humans are creative, personal, and spiritual. We have both a real physical component and a non-material component. You want us to love you with both components, with all we are: soul, spirit, mind, strength, and will.

 

Help me to resist the temptations and snares of the devil today. I claim the blood of Jesus Christ and the word of my testimony. I take up Your armor, O God.

 

Lord, help me to be a Christian who is known for being loving. May I look out for the interests of others, be considerate, concerned, and willing to lend encouragement and help. Help me not to simply think how people can benefit me, but also how I can benefit them.

 

I have a variety of personal needs in my life. I ask You to take away any guilt I feel, real guilt or false guilt. Help me believe that my repentance results in Your cleansing. You bury my sins in the depths of the sea, separating my iniquities from me as far as east is from the west.

 

Today I pray for the nation still known as Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro). There are only a few thousand evangelical believers in this impoverished Eastern European nation of 10 million people. Father, please multiply the number of evangelical Christians in this land tenfold within the next decade. Help the church develop strong leaders and a good testimony.

 

Father, today I pray for Janz Team Ministries, an independent faith mission that has just over one hundred workers overseas and in North America. Thank You for their work in mass evangelism and other forms of evangelism, including teaching English as a Foreign Language. Give them unity, safety, provision, and the empowerment of Your Spirit.

 

Today we pray for those who inspect meat, agriculture, and other areas related to food safety and production. Help them to do a good job, and may the Christians in this field boldly share Christ with their coworkers.  May many respond by turning to Christ.

 

Now, Lord, may I live in a way pleasing to You today, I pray, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

 

February 14

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great God,

 

Thank You for your love, a love that is pure, enduring, and deep. Thank You that, in Christ, nothing can separate me from Your love. Thank You that You are a social God. As Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, each of the Persons of the Trinity seek to glorify one another. And it was through a conversation between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit that the universe was created as You said, "Let us.…"

 

Thank You, Lord, that I too need others to be happy and fulfilled. Sometimes I feel lonely and alone; help me not to cower in a corner, but help me to jump into my church, neighborhood, and community. You made me social, just as You are social. Help me nurture that part of my being and not stifle it in fear.

 

Help me remember that our church is a body, and that I have a part to play. Help me to be forbearing (to put up with a lot), to confront when necessary, and not to be touchy. Help me maintain a realistic view about human nature – even among the regenerate – so that I do not hold false expectations that will be frustrated.

 

God, Your Word tells me to ask for wisdom when I need it. I ask You to enlighten my mind, and, like the wise person of Proverbs, help me to seek, crave, and pursue wisdom.

 

Dear Lord, today I pray for the nation of Burundi. Although many in this nation claim to be born-again, the hatred between the Tutsi and Hutu peoples has resulted in massive murder and devastation. Help the evangelical church to be a community of reconciliation. Please restart the leadership training centers, and help the people forgive. Be especially gracious to all the orphans who saw their parents slaughtered simply because they belonged to the wrong tribe. Please, Lord, bring healing.

 

I remember the ministry of Jews for Jesus as they take the good news of Yeshua the Messiah to the Jewish people around the world. May Your Spirit empower the workers, help them to walk with You and to get along with one another, and provide for them in every way. Give them great fruit for their labor as they reach Your special nation.

 

Today I also pray for our public libraries and librarians. Thank You that, in our nation, we may expand our minds freely. We know that many philosophies and teachings are contrary to Your Word, so help us to study that we might have answers and offer alternatives that please You. May more and more librarians and administrators come to know You.

 

Help me look for You working among those I rub shoulders with today, and help me walk through the doors You open, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 15

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great Father of Lights,

 

I praise You that You are a God Who makes decisions. You are not some force or some law of the universes. You are a personal God. You think, You feel, You create, and You decide. You have a perfect will. Since You decide, you also discern and are therefore the perfect Judge of the Universe. Your decisions are never wrong, never lacking knowledge, information, or reasonability. You are not a random God. Although Your ways are higher than ours, and although many of Your decisions do not make sense to us, we are the ones with the problem, not You.

 

Today I thank You for the atoning work of Jesus Christ. He earned my salvation by paying a penalty as a sin offering to You, Father. He took my sins upon Himself and gave me His righteousness in exchange. He became a curse for us (Galatians 3:13).

 

Father, in light of the work of Jesus for me, help me to remember that He has purchased me with His blood, and that I do not belong to myself, but to You. I am Yours. Help me view life accordingly.

 

Your Word tells me that if I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me of them, and You will cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). So I bring my sins before You now. I do not excuse them, but I freely admit them and ask for Your forgiveness.

 

Meet the personal needs of my life, Lord. My physical needs: health, strength, provision. Meet my spiritual needs: growth, nurture, fellowship. And meet my social needs: matters of family, friends, and community.

 

Today I am praying for the nation of Cambodia. Lord, the slaughters that took place there in past decades are horrible to even hear about. In the process of the ravage of internal warfare, most Christians were killed. Thank You for the 300 evangelical congregations in the land. Even though evangelicals make up only about one half of one percent, the church is growing quickly. The challenges are many, with so many abandoned children who end up as prostitutes in addition to the emotional effects of past slaughters. May the church grow exponentially, raise up leaders, and help the government to take a positive stance toward religious freedom. May You turn Cambodia into a lighthouse for other nations. Bless the missionary agencies who work there with fruit and provision.

 

Lord, I thank You for the vital ministry of Kids Alive, as they rescue children from dangerous situations and provide them with housing and education around the world. Lord, we hate to hear how many children are suffering abandonment, abuse, and living on the streets. Help the missionaries and ministries of Kids Alive to make a big difference for the Kingdom of God. Provide for these ministries abundantly, help the workers to live in harmony, and rescue many children!

 

Bless all those who protect children locally too, I ask.

 

Now, Lord, help me keep my eyes on You today, I request, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

February 16

by Ed Vasicek

 

Dear God,

 

Thank You that You are a God Who plans. Before the world was founded, You, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, planned that God the Son would become a man in the person of Jesus Christ and offer Himself as the Lamb of God. He is the "Lamb slain before the foundation of the world" (Revelation 13:8).

 

When the fullness of time came, right on time, You sent Your Son, born of a woman, born under the Law (Galatians 4:4). At the right time, Jesus shall return to reign. You are a God who makes plans.

Lord, I am thankful for many things, three of which are: ______________.

 

Lord, I empty myself before You so that Your Spirit may fill me. I find my strength in His power, not my own. May Your Spirit control me today.

 

Thank You that my Savior is interceding for me, Father, at Your right hand. He is my advocate, my defense attorney who defends me against Satan's accusations. He is my high priest and mediator, the One Who represents me to You. That is why I pray in Jesus' Name.

 

So. Lord, help me be a prayer warrior, someone who prays informally during my day and is always ready to offer up a prayer.

 

Lord, I need You to watch out for my physical and material needs as well. Help me manage my resources well, and open and close the right doors.

 

Today I pray for the African nation of Cameroon. Thank You for the recent growth of evangelical churches. Lord, You know how corrupt this nation is, and You are aware that many who profess to be Christians are not genuinely converted. Help Your true children to stand strong.  Provide much-needed training for church leaders, and help the newer evangelical churches to set a standard that will challenge the older, compromised churches.

 

Thank You, Lord, for Latin America Mission (LAM). They serve in a variety of ways, from "...friendship evangelism to theological education; medical relief to youth camps; church planting to children-at-risk work; office management to micro-enterprise development; personal counseling to emergency response." Bless their many missionaries, help them to get along well with one another, keep them walking with You, may their families be strong. and empower them with Your Spirit so that they may bear much fruit. Provide for all their needs.

 

I remember our nation's school bus drivers. Please give them safety and wisdom, and may many come to know You.

 

Now. Lord, be gracious to me today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 17

by Ed Vasicek

 

Dear Almighty One,

 

Father, You gather your sheep like a shepherd. We are Your flock. The Lord Jesus declared Himself to be the Good Shepherd, the One Who laid down His life, only to take it up again. Unlike a hired hand who flees when the wolf approaches, the Good Shepherd sacrifices Himself to preserve the sheep. As an Omnipotent Shepherd, You hold us in Your hand, and no one is powerful enough to remove us. You watch over us, You guide us with Your rod and staff. You lead us in the way we should go.

 

Thank You, Holy Spirit, that You have baptized me into the Body of Christ. I am united with my fellow believers around the globe, those who genuinely know Christ.

 

Help me, therefore, Holy Spirit, to allow You to fill me. I give You control of my life. I understand that there is only one baptism of the Spirit, but many fillings. Indeed, You command me to "be being filled with the Holy Spirit."

 

Lord, we humans beings are complicated, and our lives are sometimes tangled webs of responsibilities and duties. We wear many hats. Help me, Father, to take life in stride. Help me to cast my cares on You, for You care for me.

 

Lord, I have some disappointments and burdens in life. A few of them hurt me and have left scars, including: __________. I turn them over to You. Help me to find Your purpose and joy in life. There are many things I cannot change, but I can share all my thoughts with You. Thank You that You do not stifle me or pressure me to "get over it." You are a God Who feels with me.

 

Today, Lord, I remember the nation of Cape Verde Islands, a small island nation off the coast of West Africa. Although most of the inhabitants claim some form of Christianity, only between 5 and 10 percent claim to be born-again. We thank You that the evangelical church is growing, and we pray that the number of believers there would double over the next five years. Help the believers to give up native superstition, and to develop strong leadership within the church. Many Caboverdians are migrants in other nations, including the U.S. We pray that these communities would become strong evangelical bastions for You.

 

Father, I pray for Liebenzell Mission as they plant churches, evangelize, and offer theological training for church leaders throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, and, to a lesser extent, South America. Help the many missionaries to get along well with one another, to agree upon strategies, and to be empowered by Your Spirit for their vital work. Help their families to be strong, healthy, and provide what they need, we pray. May their ministry be fruitful.

 

Today we pray for our nation's journalists. May an epidemic of fairness and understanding sweep our media, and may many come to know You.

 

Now bless my day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 18

by Ed Vasicek

 

Gentle Shepherd,

 

You are a personal God. Lord, You are three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Yet You are one God. One God with three Personalities, yet of the same essence. We say these words, but they are beyond our comprehension. But that should not surprise us: if we could understand You, our theology would be suspect. Certainly You must very different and very much above us! Yet, You are, in many ways, like us. Yet You possess characteristics often extended out to infinity. We have some power; You are infinitely powerful. We know some things; You know all things.

 

And, as a personal God, this means that You can relate to us. You have intellect, emotions, a will, and You are creative and spiritual.

 

I am grateful to be among the three categories of beings that has true personality: You (God), angels (both holy angels and fallen demons), and we human beings. Help me not to neglect my spiritual nature; that is such a big part of what it means to be personal.

 

Lord, help me to respect the institutions that you established. Help me do what I can to lend support to Biblical marriage, family, government, and ethics. I pray that you would strengthen marriages and families throughout our world, country, and area. Especially bless those with whom I have contact and influence.

 

Please address the following needs: ______________.

 

Lord, today I pray for the Cayman Islands. We know that this is a wealthy area, with freedom of religion and many evangelical Christians. We pray that the churches would be strong, and that the believers there would not become entangled with prosperity, but that they would focus their hearts upon you. We are grateful that over a fourth of the residents are born-again; we pray that their number would grow to 40 percent within the next decade.

 

Father, I pray for Tech Team, an important missionary agency that supports so many others by providing "...technical expertise in engineering, construction, design, landscape design, graphic design, display and brochure design, computer networking, software development, furlough vehicle leasing and website design and development..." Lord, this, then, frees up your other servants to spend more time harvesting the fields. Oh, Father, provide for this vital ministry in every way, and use them by Your Spirit.

 

Today we remember construction workers. Many of them know You, but most do not. So, Lord help the Christians to bear good testimony, and use them to draw in the net. May an evangelistic surge break out in the construction trades.

 

So, Lord, I commit my day to You. Use me, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 19

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great Chief Shepherd,

 

Thank You that You are a God who communicates! Not only is there conversation between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but You also communicate to us, Your creation. You communicate to us through nature. The mighty storms tell us You are angry; the beautiful flowers tell us You are beautiful and loving; the weeds and thistles tell us something is wrong.

 

Then You communicate specially through Your Word, the Bible. The recorded words of Your messengers, the Prophets, God the Son in the Person of Jesus Christ, and the Apostles are more than words written by men: the Bible is truly the Word of God as well. And then You communicate to us through Your Spirit.

 

Thank You that You have “breathed” out all Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17), and we must feast on Your Word if we ever hope to mature. Help us hunger and thirst for Your Word as did the Psalmist in Psalm 119.

 

Lord, help me resist the snares of the devil today. I claim my victory in Jesus Christ. I am seated with Him in the heavenly places, far above all principalities and powers.

 

Lord, help me get along well with those with whom I work or associate. At times I think it should be easy for reasonable people to get along. But then I remember that our hearts are deceitful, and that insanity is in our hearts. We can be reasonable, but we are not always so. Help me to be reasonable and to know how to handle it when others are not reasonable. Help me to be fairminded and not to think emotionally.

 

Today I pray for the nation of Sierra Leone. This is one of the most desperate nations on the earth with no strong government and chaos reigning. Between Islam and tribal religions, it has been difficult to nurture strong churches. The average resident has experienced violence of some sort: rape, torture and kidnappings. Lord, help the Christians to be strong. May Your Spirit sweep over the land and bring many to life, and, by your grace, to maturity. May the number of believers triple within the next decade.

 

Lord, I thank you for the Network of International Christian Schools. “NICS started in the Republic of Korea with the establishment of International Christian Schools. Presently, NICS operates 17 schools in 13 countries. Plans are underway for expansion into other major cities around the world.” We pray that you would bless their plans as they seek to educate English-speaking students, often missionary children, with a thoroughly Christian education. Provide for this ministry in every way.

 

Today we ask you to protect and bless our firefighters. May many come to know You, and help the Christian firefighters to honor You with their love and example.

 

Now use me for Your glory today, I pray, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

 

February 20

by Ed Vasicek

 

Dear God,

 

Thank You that You are a moral God. Because of that, some things are always right and some things are always wrong. While those who reject You try to decide what is right and wrong on the basis of consensus, those who follow You base their views on Your character and Your revelation. Our consciences are at peace when they are tuned to Your ways.

 

Today I thank You that Your Son was born of a virgin. Since He was conceived supernaturally, He could be fully human yet uncontaminated by the sin of Adam. He was not born with a predisposition to sin, as we are, yet He could be tempted.  And, although Mary was a godly woman, she was chosen because she was a descendent of David. She did not earn the right to bear the Messiah, but, You, O Lord, were gracious to her. Therefore we do not worship her or glory in her. Instead we worship and glory in the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Your Word tells me that if I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me of them, and You will cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). So I bring my sins before You now. I do not excuse them, but I freely admit them and ask for Your forgiveness.

 

God, help me to be a good listener. You gave me two ears and one mouth, help me to see the obvious implications of that. As James says, help me to be slow to speak but quick to listen.

 

Lord, like everyone else, I have fears and insecurities that haunt me. I give them to You, and ask You to help me constantly do so.

 

Today I pray for the 10/40 window, that area which includes much of Asia and northern Africa. We know that the Gospel has penetrated that area least of all.  We pray for victories and for the Gospel to germinate and bear much fruit. Protect, prosper, and provide for Your servants in this part of the world. Give them very much fruit for their labors, and bind the Evil One, I ask.

 

Today I pray for the North Canada Evangelical Mission, “...an interdenominational faith organization seeking to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the First Nations of Canada.” I pray for its 50 points of ministry and its 270 members. Help them as they evangelize, disciple, and plant churches. Bless them with harmony, provision, and the power of Your Spirit, I pray.

 

I pray for artists in all fields. We know that artists have more influence on a society than most people realize. We pray that an epidemic of regeneration would break out among the art community, and that the number of Christians in this field would multiply tenfold.

 

Now, Lord, help me think with a renewed mind today, I pray, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

 

February 21

by Ed Vasicek

 

Heavenly King,

 

Thank You that You are a sensible God. You think reasonably. Your thinking is infallible and perfect. Although You are emotional, Your actions always reflect Your intellect, emotion and will. You are never carried away to irrationality, despite the intensity of Your feelings.

 

Dear Lord, please address the following needs in my life: _______________.

 

I pray for friends and family, including: _______________.

 

I also pray that You would help me to love my family members as I should. Help me put You first, my family second and then the rest of life third. Help me balance the rest of life between work, church, work around the house, extended family, social activities and community involvement.

 

I thank You, Lord, that You have taken away my heart of stone and given me a heart of flesh, a new nature, the Law of God written upon my heart. I am so privileged to be under the New Covenant, to know You and be indwelt by Your Spirit.

 

Help my heart to stay sensitive to Your leadings and will for my life. Help me to check in with headquarters often, not to make the big decisions on my own.

 

Today I pray for the Central African Republic. Thank You for the great growth of the evangelical church, nearly 35% profess to be born-again. Yet the level of depth, doctrinal purity, vision, and tribal divisiveness has kept the church from maturing as it should. We pray for the training organizations, and especially for discipleship ministries focusing upon children and young people. We pray that the evangelical church would work together, would grow in depth as well as breadth, and that Your Spirit would move mightily in this society.

 

I also remember the fine ministry of NTM, New Tribes Mission, as they, "...are reaching people who've never had a single opportunity to hear the Good News. Mission trips carry Christ's Gospel to parts of the world where living and working conditions are often difficult." Thank You for the many missionaries who serve around the world and are involved in evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. Protect them, help them to have harmony with one another, and provide all they need and beyond. May Your Spirit prosper and bless their work.

 

Today I pray for computer technicians and others members of the communication/information profession. They are crucial to modern life, even to modern ministry. May many in these fields come to know You, and help the Christians to be good testimonies.

 

Now help me glorify You today, I pray, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

 

February 22

by Ed Vasicek

 

Compassionate God,

 

You are the Truth. As John tells us, You are light, and in You is not darkness at all. When God the Son became man, He declared Himself, "...the way, the truth, and the life." Your Word says it is impossible for You to lie. Every Word of Yours is sure. Your integrity is unquestionable. You delight in us when we value truth, even if the truth sometimes seems unpleasant to us.

 

I pray for my lost friends and family members, including: ______________. Father, please send Your Spirit to draw them to Yourself and grant them the repentance that leads to life.

 

Lord, I thank You that Jesus Christ was tempted in all points, as we are, yet was without sin. Jesus did not just live a good life, He lived a sinless life. Thus He could offer His life as a spotless Lamb without blemish. He lived the only sinless and perfect life.

 

Since You see me in Him, through Him I am credited with having met all the righteous requirements of the Law. Help me live out this righteousness in a practical way. Help me to become what You have declared I already am: righteous. Help my state (my actual behavior) match my standing (the legally perfect position I have because I am in Christ).

 

Lord, help me to consider others more important than myself. Help me to put myself in the shoes of others. Help me develop both sympathy and empathy.

 

Today I pray for the African nation of Chad. Thank You that the church is growing, and that about 14 percent of the population claims to be born-again. Yet more people claim to be Muslims, and the Muslims control much of this poor nation. We pray that the level of religious freedom people in Chad enjoy will remain, and that Your Spirit will continue to empower the many zealous believers there. Chad has more unreached people groups than any other nation in Africa. Bless the Jesus' Film and use it to reach many. May You pour Your Spirit out upon Chad.

 

I remember OMF in prayer. Founded by Hudson Taylor in the 19th century, OMF, "...is a global network of Christians proclaiming the glory of Jesus Christ among East Asia's peoples through fervent prayer, loving service and personal witness." Lord, bless the missionaries with harmony, safety, provision, and much fruit for their labors. Keep them close to You, and empower their efforts by Your Spirit.

 

I also remember those involved in the funeral business. Help them to be honest, kind, and compassionate as they serve people during times of grief. May many come to know you, and may those who do seek tactful opportunities to share Christ with their clients.

 

Now strengthen my faith today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 23

by Ed Vasicek

 

Gracious Lord,

 

You are Yahweh, the Great I AM. You especially use Your Name when You are talking about keeping Your Covenants. Your Word is Your seal; what You promise, You deliver. Some of Your Covenants are conditional, others unconditional. Your unconditional covenants fascinate me: not matter what humans do, You will do what You have promised. Your determination to honor Your Word is one of many things that is so impressive about You!

 

Lord, one day You will judge those who know You for the purpose of reward. Some of Your children will be saved so as by fire. Others will have few rewards, while yet others receive many. Help me to store up for myself treasures in heaven. Help me remember that my labor for You is not in vain. May I make an abundant entrance, receiving Your, "well done, good and faithful servant." Although I am saved by Your grace and not my merit, I will be rewarded in heaven according to my faithful service.

 

So, Lord, help me to be a person of endurance. Help me not to get weary in well-doing. Keep me from rusting out, keep me from burning out, instead, help me to faithfully hold out when it comes to serving You.

 

Lord, every day I am confronted with choices. Many choices do not even register as choices because habit or protocol makes the decision for me. Yet, Lord, I am called upon to decide things that affects others, myself, and the sometimes Your kingdom. May I be a person of wisdom, a person guided by Your Spirit.

 

Help me to resist temptation and the lures of the Satan today.

 

Today I pray for the South American nation of Chile. Thank You that almost 17% of the population claim to be born-again! But, Lord, the churches lack solid leaders, solid doctrine, and solid thinking. Help the Christians there to value and develop their minds for You, to love You, not just with their hearts but with their minds, strength, souls and hearts. Revive the lackluster condition of the church; help believers to be more faithful in church attendance and help them find and pursue good discipleship opportunities.

 

I remember Partners International, a ministry which, "has actively sought opportunities to bring the hope of the gospel to the world's difficult places. We specialize in partnering with indigenous Christian ministries in the developing world. Partners International links prayer and financial support from Christians in the West with third-world agencies ministering to spiritually, emotionally and physically needy people." Bless their efforts, provide for the nationals, and may those who are supported be faithful to their calling.

 

Today I pray for the many good community organizations which help the needy or provide services that make a difference.

 

Bless my day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

​

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February 24

by Ed Vasicek

 

King of Kings,

 

You are the Creator of all things. You were here before all things; indeed, You were here before time. You planned Your creation, and life came from You, the Fountain of all life. You are an orderly God, and so Your creation is orderly. You said, "Let there be light," for You are light and You share Your light with us. Of God the Son we read that all things were created through Him. All events have a beginning, but You are not an event. You are the Beginner of all events. Your awesome designs leave us spellbound.

 

Lord, I am thankful for many things, three of which are: ______________.

 

Lord, I empty myself before You so that Your Spirit may fill me. I find my strength in His power not my own. May Your Spirit control me today.

 

Great Lord, I thank You for Your sacrificial love. Often I see injustice around me; sometimes I have felt like life has not always been even-handed with me. But I know You love me, not because everything goes well, but because of Calvary. According to Your Word, that is when You demonstrated Your love for me, when Christ died for me (Romans 5:8).

 

So, Lord, help me to trust You and Your goodness when it seems like You have forgotten me. Help me to be patient and remember that You are in no hurry. I am not wrong to want speedy answers for my prayers, but You are going to follow Your timetable not mine!

 

God, like every one of the billions of people who inhabit our world, I am vulnerable. So, Lord, please send angels to watch over me and protect me. Keep me from harm and evil of every kind.

 

Today I pray for the massive nation of China. Oh, Lord, praying for this country is overwhelming. Over one and a fourth billion people! Lord, I praise You that over 6% of the population are born-again. Thank You for the great growth in the Chinese Church, from 1.8 million in 1949 to 17 million (and with secret house churches perhaps 45 million). We pray that the church would keep growing and doubling every 5 years. Lord, provide more freedom for the Chinese people. Help the government to stop viewing the church as evil, and may freedom reign in this vast land. We pray, Lord, that China would become a spiritual lighthouse for the rest of the world. Help the Gospel to transform lives and society in phenomenal ways. Provide leadership training, heal this nation, and may Your Spirit do a work there greater than He has ever done anywhere!

 

Thank You, God, for PIONEERS, a ministry that mobilizes teams to glorify God among unreached peoples
by initiating church-planting movements
in partnership with local churches. Thank You for the summer, short term, and long-term missionaries who organize outreach in nations like Chad, Iraq, and Sumatra. Help them get along, empower them by Your Spirit, and may they be used of You to give a real spiritual "shot in the arm" to the churches with whom they minister.

 

Bless our city, town, village and county council board members throughout this land. Give them servants' hearts, integrity, and help them to reasonably serve their communities. May many come to know You.

 

Help me to remember to pray throughout the day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 25

by Ed Vasicek

 

Divine Shepherd,

 

You are the Sustainer of all things. God the Son holds the entire universe together. We know that, if we condensed the earth to actual matter, removing all the forces between the parts of the atoms, it would be the size of a pea. And it could be that those smallest components are themselves mostly forces. It is You, Lord, Who sustain everything.

 

Father, thank You that one day my body will be resurrected. When my time on earth is through, my soul will enter Your presence in heaven. But when Jesus Christ returns to the clouds at the sound of the trumpet, my body will be resurrected as a new immortal one. As Job said, even after worms destroy my body, yet in my flesh shall I see God.

 

Of course if I am alive when Jesus returns, my body will be transformed as I ascend to meet Him.

So, Lord, help me to find encouragement in You day by day. When life is pleasant and positive, I do not think much about encouragement, other than encouraging others. But when times are bleak, disappointing, or just plain miserable, thank You that You are there for me. Help me to retreat from my bleak times and find You a Friend and Confidant.

 

Lord, please take care of my loved ones. Send angels to watch over them, Your Spirit to draw them to Yourself and to guide those who know You, and to direct them in the way they should go.

 

Your Word tells me that if I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me of them, and You will cleanse me from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). So I bring my sins before You now. I do not excuse them, but I freely admit them and ask for Your forgiveness.

 

Today I pray for the nation of Egypt, a nation familiar to every student of Scripture. Lord, thank You for the nearly 3% of the population who know You. We know the challenges are great as Islam pressures the authorities to become less and less tolerant of Christians. We pray that persecution would stop, and that freedom would be guaranteed both on paper and in practice. Bless the Jesus film, the evangelical churches, and the evangelical movement within the Coptic Orthodox Church. We pray that the number of Christians would double within this decade, and that the people of Egypt would gain a new respect and tolerance for evangelical Christianity.  We also pray that You would provide leaders for the church and training for lay leaders.

 

Today I pray for the Pandita Ramabai Mukti Mission, and evangelical outreach in India. Bless their orphanage, their housing, and their church as they reach out with the love of Christ and His Gospel. Provide for them and keep them true to You. May Your Spirit empower them so that they bear much fruit for You.

 

Today I pray for those who labor in our factories. Keep them safe and accident free, help the Christians who thusly labor to work as for You, and help them to reach many lost coworkers with the Gospel.

 

So, Lord, help me to walk with You today, I pray, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

 

February 26

by Ed Vasicek

 

O Holy One,

 

You are perfect. You have no flaws, quirks, problems, or inadequacies. Your are complete and cannot be improved upon. Your attributes blend harmoniously. You make no mistakes; You do not need to learn by trial and error. No one can add knowledge, skill, or insight to Your perfection, for You have all of these to an infinite degree. You are morally perfect as well; You do not err in any way.

 

Lord, You made a covenant with Noah and his descendents after the flood. You promised that You would never destroy the entire world with a worldwide flood again. You also obligated we humans to practice justice in defending human dignity and to promote a solid family structure. Help me to remember Your faithfulness the next time I see a rainbow!

 

Lord, help me become a person who keeps his or her word. May my word be my bond, and help me even to honor my mistakes unless doing so would be sinful.

 

Gentle Shepherd, help me to develop good relational skills. Help me know how to make people feel relaxed and accepted in my presence. Keep me from policing others.

 

Today, Lord, I pray for the nation of Taiwan. Even though the people of Taiwan have more freedom and prosperity than those in Communist China, they have not responded to the Gospel as have those on the mainland. Only 2.7% of the Taiwanese claim to be born-again, and for decades the church has stagnated. Thank You that it is once again beginning to grow. Provide solid pastors and leaders for the church, and may Your Spirit bless the Jesus film and other outreaches. May His gentle wind blow over Taiwan. Lord, please keep mainline China from being aggressive or oppresive toward Taiwan. China is emphasizing their view that Taiwan belongs to them and the threat of takeover or war is constant. Please keep that from happening.

 

I remember Red Sea Team International as it seeks, "to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to unreached people groups, primarily...within the 10/40 window...to share this Good News through both our words and our deeds...to lead lost [people]...into a living relationship with Christ. We seek to disciple and teach others...[and]...seek...church planting movements."  Bless this important ministry.

 

May Your Spirit empower and prepare the way for their efforts, and may You provide for them, protect them, and help them to work harmoniously.

 

I pray for Christian counselors throughout this world. Give them wisdom and insight beyond themselves as they help their counselees to overcome sin, nurture marriages, overcome the affects of trauma and abuse, or seek God's will for their situations.

 

I pray for my lost friends and family members, including: _______________. Father, please send Your Spirit to draw them to Yourself and grant them the repentance that leads to life.

 

Bless me this day, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 27

by Ed Vasicek

 

Lord God of Heaven and Earth,

 

You are my Rock. You do not change, You are a sure foundation, and we are wise to build our lives upon You. We know what happens to those who build on the sand when a storm comes along. And life holds many storms. Just as the rock provided water for the children of Israel as they journeyed in the wilderness, so You too not only provide us with a sure foundation but You also refresh our very souls.

Please address the following needs: _______________.

 

Guide our president, senators, representatives, judges, and state and local elected or appointed leaders. Help them know You, follow You, and do Your will. May Your children – those born of your Spirit – be able to live peacefully in our land without being pressured to compromise Your demands.

 

Lord, thank You that You have delivered Your children from the wrath that will be experienced by those who do not know Christ. We need not fear the fires of hell or eternity apart from You. Instead, we will be feasting with You, enjoying Your riches, and fellowship with our Savior and the multitudes that have trusted Him.

 

Lord, I want to be a considerate person. Help me to frequently put myself in the shoes of other people, and to do to them as I would have them do to me.

 

Help me with my friendships, Lord. It takes time and effort to maintain and nurture friendships, and sometimes I am hesitant to take initiative. I want to be invited, but not to invite. Help me not to take a passive role, Lord.

 

Today I pray for the nation of Comoro Islands. These islands off the coast of Africa are heavily Muslim; less than one-tenth of one percent claim to be born-again Christians. It is illegal to distribute Christian literature, and Christians are ostracized from society. Thank You for the Christian medical and veterinary workers who bear testimony to the love of Christ. We pray that the number of believers would increase tenfold over the next 5 years. May Your Spirit work mightily to overcome the darkness of this land. Help the Christians to stand strongly, firmly and wisely.

 

I remember the Rio Grande Bible Institute as they train workers for ministry. Help them particularly impact the Spanish-speaking world by training leaders, as well as through their radio and literature ministries. May Your Spirit guide the leadership and student body.

 

I pray for those who work in accounting and bookkeeping. I know these are important fields. Help them to do their work as for You, and may those who know Christ share their faith and show their faith by faithful, dependable work.

 

Work in me to will and to do of Your good pleasure, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 28

by Ed Vasicek

 

Almighty Father,

 

Not only are You our Rock, You are also our Fortress. You are One to Whom we can flee in our desperation. You protect us, You refresh us, You train us and send us forth with Your orders in Your time. We are vulnerable, and the more we are conscious of our vulnerability, the more we learn to experience You as our Fortress. We sing, "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" because it is so.

 

Although You are in all and present everywhere, You are distinct from Your creation. All creation depends upon You, but You are uncreated and responsible for all that has come to be.

 

Help me, Lord, to be a man or woman of the Book. Like the Psalmist, help me to contemplate it day and night, to make it part of my daily mainstay. Create in me, O Lord, a hunger for Your Word.

 

I ask You to help me relate well to other generations, to those both older and younger than me. People are people, but the times in which we were raised and our environments certainly leave their stamps upon us. Help me to be patient but assertive when appropriate. Help me seek to understand others, not simply reject those who are different from me.

 

Help me to resist temptation and the lures of the Satan today. I choose to take up Your armor, and I claim my victory as I am legally seated with Christ in heavenly places.

 

Lord, I am thankful for many things, three of which are: _______________.

 

Lord, I empty myself before You so that Your Spirit may fill me. I find my strength in His power, not my own. May Your Spirit control me today.

 

Today I pray for Mayotte, the part of the Comoro Islands that have remained under the wings of the French. Lord, only one-tenth of one percent of these people claim to be born-again Christians, while nearly 97 percent are Muslims. Thank You for the two churches that do exist, and we pray that You would multiply the number of believers and help new works to prosper. Send Your Spirit to draw people to Yourself and to open up their eyes to the claims of Christ. We pray that the number of believers would double every year for years to come.

 

I offer my prayer on behalf of SEND International, "an interdenominational faith mission agency, with 500 missionaries in more than 20 countries of Asia, Europe and North America." Help them as they are in the process of "Starting churches where there are none by Evangelizing the unreached, Nurturing disciples, and Developing leaders from among the national people." Provide for the workers in every way, protect them from all harms and evils, and may Your Spirit bless their efforts and draw people to Yourself. May harmony reign among the missionaries.

 

I pray for those in the entertainment business. I pray that Christians may influence this industry more and more, and that decent quality entertainment would become more commonplace. May entertainers be burdened to nurture and preserve the traditional family. Regenerate many in this field, and help these born-again entertainers to mature in You and to carry their convictions into their work world.

 

Now strengthen me to serve You today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

 

February 29

by Ed Vasicek

 

Great God,

 

Today is a unique day, a date that is only on the calendar one in four years. Yet time is irrelevant to You. Because You completely master all there is, we can run to You as our shield. Time is Your time; the massive energy within each atom Your plaything. Because You are predisposed toward we who are in Christ, we can flee behind You as our shield. Whether it is Satan's fiery darts or the trials of life, You want to be our Shield of shelter.

 

Help me to resist temptation and the lures of the Satan today. May I draw near to You so that You will draw near to me. Help me resist the devil so he will flee.

 

Since this is obviously a leap year, that means elections are not far behind. This Fall, we will make some important decisions here in the U.S. Guide us in our voting, and help us to trust that You are working Your purposes in Your Providence.

 

Help me to look not only at my own things, but to unselfishly love others. May this love begin with those closest to me: family, friends, neighbors, and then spread outward.

 

Today I pray for all missionaries throughout this world who are true to the Gospel and the fundamentals of Your Word. Prosper them, guide them, protect them, and provide for them. Your Holy Spirit is infinite, for He is God. May He sovereignly move in our world to produce great fruit.

 

Today we especially pray for the Muslim people. Muslims are often very committed to their religion, but they merely acknowledge Jesus as a great prophet. They do not recognize Him as God, nor do they believe He died on the cross for our sins and rose again. We pray that through the Jesus Film and other means, that You would reap a great harvest from within Islamic lands.  We also pray that people of all religions would recognize the importance of respecting religious freedom, whether it works for or against us.

 

We remember our persecuted brothers and sisters in Christ. We especially remember the Voice of the Martyrs as they seek to connect us with information and prayer needs for those in nations where persecution is severest. We especially pray for Sudan, China, Saudi Arabia, North Korea, and Viet Nam. We pray that these governments would recognize the rights given by our Creator, including the right to practice and propagate religion. Help the believers in these lands to be wise beyond themselves and thus able to thwart persecution. When they cannot, help them to be strong in your strength and not their own.

 

Help me serve You faithfully today, I pray, in Jesus' Name, Amen.

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