Praying For Government and the Nation

Praying Together

Lesson:  Praying for Government and the Nation  I Tim 2:1-4

Written by Lewis and Sylvia Turner, Wheatland Ministries, PO Box 697, Walkersville, Md 21793

When we pray, how often do we take time to pray for our Nation?  Oftentimes, we feel a lack of motivation to pray for our Nation until a sudden crisis occurs, such as 9-11 in New York City.  Although special events can be good reminders to pray, the best encouragement and reminder comes from opening and studying God’s Word.  The Bible urges us in I Timothy 2:1-4, to pray earnestly for all those in authority—including our leaders, our nation, and government.  These verses encourage us, giving us an expectation of peace: ‘that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty.’ (KJV).

Furthermore, the Bible encourages us to pray often, which is prayer “without ceasing at all times”, see I Thes 5:17.  Prayer, in general, should be a natural outflow of our relationship with Jesus.  We need to pray constantly; not only for our personal needs and concerns, but for the needs of others, too—including our nation, leaders, and all those in government over us. 

Be assured that the Lord will hear those prayers; and He will give our leaders the Wisdom they need—both to make wise decisions and to take the necessary actions to benefit us. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (James 5:16b). The passage of I Timothy 2:1-4 reiterates that thought, especially in verses 2 and 3: “{prayer}…for all that are in authority…is good and acceptable in the sight of God, our Savior”(KJV).  In his loving and merciful response to our prayers, He will provide His protection for our nation, leaders, and government workers.  I believe that this is, what the Lord wanted in Ez 22:30, when God looked for someone to “stand in the gap”.  This means that, through the earnest prayers of His children, we can build a Biblical protective hedge around our leaders and nation.  If there are breaches that have occurred in that wall, they can be repaired through prayer.  In Nehemiah chapter 9, Nehemiah led those rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, to stand in the gap for the Israelites; Nehemiah fervently prayed for them and confessed their sins, as they rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem.   Without that fervent prayer, the walls of Jerusalem may not have been repaired.  The same may be true for our country, today;  According to God’s Word in II Chronicles 7:14,   “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”(KJV).

To put things simply, God wants us to be praying for our nation, for our leaders, and all those who are involved in our government.  Before we begin to pray for our government, a word of caution should be shared here, first.  When political issues arise, we are often temped to pray specifically for answers that reflect our own personal desires—instead of praying according to God’s Word and His Will as we ought to be doing.  Self-motivated prayers are often inspired by various leaders to promote their agendas.  What we should be doing, is taking time to search God’s Word, allowing the Holy Spirit to impress His Word in our hearts, so the Scriptures can guide our prayers. 

What happens when we pray for our nation, according to the Scriptures?  Scripturally-based prayers invite the presence of Jesus and His Holy Spirit into the situations where our leaders are involved.  Let’s look at a few Scriptures, to illustrate how Scriptures can help us to pray effectively:

·         Matthew 6:10 (KJV) As we recite the Lord’s Prayer, we pray: ‘Thy Will be done on earth as it is in heaven.’ In essence, our prayers should focus on seeking God’s Will, rather than promoting a personal agenda.

·         I John 5:14-15 (KJV), “And this is the boldness which we have toward Him that, if we ask anything according to His Will, He heareth us: and if we know that He heareth us whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions which we have asked of Him.”  The key phrase is,  that we should ask “according to God’s will.” This means that when we pray in-line with the Scripture, God hears us and will grant us our requests.   

·         Matthew 6:12 and II Chronicles 7:14.  Cleansing of our hearts—ref forgiveness is a necessary step to take, when making a petition to God.   In Nehemiah’s prayer found in Nehemiah chapter 9, the people asked for forgiveness of their sins the sins of their fathers, while rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem.   This confession took humility; that type of action is reinforced II Chronicles 7:14.  God consistently pleads with His people, even today, to confess our sins and the sins of our Nation; after we repent, then He will hear us and heal our land.

Where do we find God’s will?  It is found in the Word of God.

We have taken time to give the above Scriptural-examples, because so often we pray out of our self-focus, instead of seeking God’s Will and letting His desires guide our prayers:  IE, if you don’t want a particular candidate elected, you might be tempted to pray against his (or Her) election.  However, God wants us to ask that His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.  We can learn how to pray as God would have us pray by searching the Scriptures; as we examine His Word, and pray for His wisdom and understanding, we will be able to think more clearly.  With the help of the Holy Spirit, whether examining a political issue or deciding which candidate to vote for, God will give us discernment—so we can vote according to His standards of right and wrong. 

Some might say issues don’t always appear as black and white.  When complex situations arise and you still feel uncertain how to pray or vote in certain situations, you may need to meet with other Christians for further Biblical study and group-prayer.  Where 2 or 3 are gathered together in His Name (Matthew 18:19-20), He can bless you abundantly.  God will use other Christians to mentor and help you.

Furthermore, in your search of Scriptures, there are some organizations that can help you.  They will make you more aware of issues and, many times, point you to what God’s Word says about them.  You may disagree with the interpretation of issues by some groups—never-the-less, those groups may sometimes help you find critical Scriptures for you to use in praying more effectively.

Here is a list of a few current organizations, whose help you may want to consider; there are other good sources to help you, too; They can help you become more aware of important issues, broaden, and help clarify your thinking on certain issues.  Ultimately, though, it is important for you to examine the Scripture for yourself, using God’s Inspired Word, always as our primary resource.  The list is below:

• Intercessors for America:  www.ifapray.org .  Their main purpose is to challenge Christians to pray.  You can use their link that to obtain a helpful Book Mark giving 30 ways to pray for people in authority.  Here is their link:     http://www.echristianstore.com/ifaresources/default.aspx?tabid=15943&Item=30Ways&scid=1

• Another good group is The Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation (CPCF):  Their web sight is:  www.cpcfoundation.com .  You can use their Link to view videos they have produced about the CPCF.  The link is: http://www.youtube.com/user/findroom219

They put out a weekly prayer update focusing on congressional actions, and related national religious liberty issues.

• Daily Jot:  www.Dailyjot.com written by Rev. Bill Wilson.  The purpose of the Daily Jot is to equip and encourage Christians to evangelize and to better understand issues with out taking political sides.  .  Rev. Bill Wilson shows how current events may relate to Biblical Prophecy from a Biblical standpoint.

• There is a fourth group called Capitol Hill Prayer Partners:

They have a blog at www.chpponline.blogspot.com.  It is an excellent resource to use in encouraging prayer for government and current issues which face our Congress.  In their presentation of issues, they give a prayer for consideration and Scripture to support their prayers.

Capitol Hill Prayer Partners
"Partners in Prayer for Our Nation"
P.O. Box 5152
Herndon, VA 20172-1970
chpp@patriot.net

The groups listed above may be helpful in pointing you to the Scriptures which relate to many issues facing our nation.  Remember, it is important to study the Scriptures, examining God’s Word as the people of Berea did, in the Bible.  See Act 17:10-11.  As you read and study God’s Word, ask the Lord for Wisdom (James 1:5) on how to pray for our government.  

In praying for our government,  the principle of taking time to study God’s Word and to observe what the Scriptures say about today’s political issues, is vital in praying effectively  for our government.

Here are some additional thoughts:

• As you pray for our Government, take the opportunity to pray for specific people.  Don’t let your feelings get in the way of praying for them.  You may have major disagreements with their views and focus, but the Bible does say to pray for them. See: I Timothy 2:1-4.   As an encouraging thought while you pray for these leaders, remember, it is God who turns the hearts of Kings. Prov 21:1. 

• As you pray for leaders, pray also, for those who advise and influence our President and other key leaders.  I have personally known a few people who, respectively, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and in the power of prayer; these are Christians who are committed to praying for our leaders.  Are you willing to take that challenge? 

• One more important area of prayer, concerning how we pray for our government: pray for ALL government workers not just the leaders. Government workers affect how laws are carried out, and they recommend regulations and laws that affect us all.

Many of us may not fully recognize that we are in a Spiritual Battle for the protection of the heart of our nation; but the fact is, we are in a real Spiritual Battle, and evil forces will use any means to block our prayer from being prayed and answered.  Joining and praying together, according to the Word of God, is so important today, in order to win that battle.  The principle found in Matthew 18:19-20 of praying together, is a powerful encouragement for us.  Our nation’s future is truly in the hands of those who pray.

Recapping, as you pray for the Government,

• Seek God’s Wisdom. James 1:5 says “But if any of you lacketh wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” 
• Commit to joining in prayer with others, who will commit themselves to pray for our government;
• And commit to praying regularly, for the Government.  Praying-together with others will encourage you, and it will make a major difference in our country.

Prayer—bits: 

Consider the thought below which I have seen on a wood plaque: 

“More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.”

There is also a second “thought”  to consider: I heard from a personal and dear friend to me, Rev. Richard Dyson, a man of prayer, who frequently shares these words about prayer:

“little prayer,

little power;

Much prayer,

Much power.”

A Closing challenge:

As Christians, Praying for our Government should be always in the forefront for us, and by us in our daily personal devotions as we pray and study God’s Word; Also, as we join together, regularly praying with others, according to God’s Word; and standing in the Gap for those who govern and make the laws for our country—confessing the sins; then we will see God work on our behalf, for the good of our Nation. (see II Chronicles 7: 14)

Psalms 33:12

Blessed is the Nation whose God is the Lord

Reflection questions:

1.  How is prayer important to bringing peaceful living to us?     What kind of peace is God talking about in I Timothy 2:1-4?

2.   We are tempted to pray against a candidate whom we do not like, so he will not get elected.  Take a few moments and consider what type of prayer might this be?  Is it really praying according to the will of God? 

3.  If you have prayed for your government and have seen God working, please share your Biblically-based insights and discoveries with us.

4.  How can an approach like that of the Bereans in Acts 17:10-11. be an example to us in examining critical issues facing our nation?

5.  If you have used Christian Resources to help you with issues, how have these groups helped you?  Did they help you to pray more Biblically for our Nation? How?

One final note and example of scripture that can be prayed as we pray for our leaders and government:  In praying scripture, consider the following thought:  

A thought on praying for the Middle east where the right to worship God is being removed.

Ezekiel 11:16 (KJV)
^11:16 Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come.

A thought on praying for provision of the Jewish people and also Christians.  The Lord when he scattered the Jewish people, told them that “I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come.”

We see in the Middle East a move to wipe out both Christians and Jews.  As we pray and intercede over this situation, we should consider praying this verse Ezekiel 11:18 on their behalf.  The Lord in His Word is saying that they will be able to worship Him where ever we are.

 

This lesson is also posted on Pray!Network in the Praying Together Course.  A podcast of this lesson is also available to members of the Pray!Network.  Here are the links:

stream link      http://archive.org/stream/PrayNetworkPodcastSept242012    

download link    ttp://archive.org/download/PrayNetworkPodcastSept242012/PrayNetworkPodcastSept242012_vbr.m3u   

As presenter of this podcast, I was very nervous, but the Lord has used this session to help others.  We had a number of good questions.   Consider the work of Pray!Network and join our effort to encourage prayer.

One additional thought--a positive thought from Scripture--Hosea 14:4 says   "I will heal their backsliding , I will love them freely:"  (KJV).  Consider using that verse in praying for your Government.  God can heal our backsliding as a nation and turn our hearts back to Himself.

©August 2012 Lewis Turner

Release of Blessing—Thoughts and Reflection

By Lewis Turner, Wheatland Ministries July 19, 2012

There are times when I sense the Lord prompting me to write an impression down, one that relates to Kingdom Principles.  I have received many requests for me to join someone’s network of ministry, but I have not seen them involved in others.  There is the age old cry—I need money for the ministry.  Yes my friend, money helps.  In my ministry, I need money too, but it seems that few invest in a prayer ministry.  I have found myself working to encourage others—and I could ask—who is encouraging me?  Perhaps others may feel this way and we could wallow in the mire of those questions –OR—we could take steps that would refocus our sights the way God would lead us to be able to continue to minister to others.

When faced with a monetary crisis, we often panic.  We know God is our provider.  We have seen God work, but we fall back when faced again with money issues—in—panic—whenever money issues come up.  Faith is substance, but when faced with lack, it seems that substance has flown away.  Is our faith in money, things, people, or God—the God we worship but cannot see?

Perhaps it is time to look at ourselves, our heart attitudes and our actions.  To start, have we invested in our Heavenly Bank Account?  It you took a look at you Heavenly Bank Account, what would it be like?

Consider these sources of deposit into your Heavenly Bank Account—Have you been making deposits—deposits that reflect your heart?

• Have we invested in others with our time, encouragement, blessings, etc?
• Have we blessed through prayer?
• Have we planted seed?
• Have we involved ourselves in helping—(that is cultivation of seed that has been planted)
• Are we blessing others? On this question—I challenge all of you—to ask the Lord to also bless the ‘giver-the one giving tithes and offerings’ so they can freely give more and see the Gospel move forward unhindered by finances. –HOW many times do we bless the offering, but fail to bless the ‘giver-the one giving tithes and offerings’?  I see this happening so many times in churches and ministries when they receive tithes and offerings, that I have lost count.
• Are we praying for success of others, their work, their dreams, and God’s calling for them?  Prayer can be a way of investing in others.  Unfortunately, we often do not really come alongside others in prayer with sustaining prayer for them.  Many of us pray in a crisis, which is good, but are we taking time for sustaining prayer for their ministry? 

Even if we recognize some areas that may need change in the above areas in our ministries, we need to be willing to understand that giving reflects our heart.  Let’s take a moment to examine how we interact with others in our ministry.  The questions are simple, and only you know the answer for your ministry.

• Is it Jesus—others—then you?  This is how ‘JOY’ is spelt.

• Or is it Jesus—your Ministry—then others? –especially when it comes to receiving $$ needed to keep the ministry going?  The latter spells ‘Jyo’.  Frankly I do not know what ‘Jyo’ is, but definitely it does not spell ‘Joy’. 

Now let’s look at examples where we find that release of provision came. Note that these prayer actions brought release of provision through the involvement of both blessing and thanksgiving: 

• The release of blessing comes after blessing and thanksgiving—consider the Lord blessing the food that He used to feed the 5000.  See Matthew 14:16-20.

• Look at praise and thanksgiving.  Praise and thanksgiving have been used of the Lord to fight our battles and bring victory.  Look at II Chronicles 20:17-23.

• Also consider the Aaronic Blessing found in Numbers 6:23-27.

This might be time to reflect on the above and consider the following question:  ‘What would happen if we asked with other ministries in prayer of agreement with Thanksgiving and Blessing?’ Matthew 18:19.   –Thanksgiving and Blessing would make a significant difference in others.  Thanksgiving and Blessing are critical keys for us to use in helping others.

Now, looking back to the issue of shortfall addressed at the beginning, to some, they may think that all I have to do is give more of my income to the Lord to not have shortfall.  If that is the case, ask the question—does investment have to be money?  Peter did not have money, yet a person was made to walk.  That was a great blessing for that lame person—to be able to walk!!! Acts 3:6-9.  Investment may not always be in the form of money.  Investment in the manner of sowing seed can be in reaching out and helping another person or ministry by coming alongside of them.  So just giving more is not the answer.  Peter helped someone.  Helping is also an important key.

In Review—Shortfall is not the issue that we are really faced with, when money seems short.  The root of shortfall may actually come from not helping and blessing others and being thankful for what God has done. 

Perhaps we all should examine how we do business as churches and ministries.  As we wait on the Lord, we may find the Lord leading us to humble ourselves in prayer and to turn and seek ways for the Lord to help direct us, and yield to Him.  That help, will help us invest in others in a way that will bring God’s results.

A final thought:  II Corinthians 9:6-8 says He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.  And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.

I do want to offer a prayer for churches and ministries involved in advancing the Work that Jesus did for us on the Cross at Calvary:

Father, work in our hearts to reach out to others and encourage other ministries too.  May Your love grow in our hearts as we reach out to others.  I do ask that as we obey, that every need, financial or other, will be met completely. Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.  Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. (Eph 3:20-21).  In Jesus’ Holy Name, we come to you Father. Amen.

©2012 Lewis Turner

Seeking the Lord—Humbling Ourselves—and Praying for the Nation

A few years ago, the Lord had me involved in a prayer assignment, of a great magnitude.  Much prayer had already gone up over a major issue that affected us locally.  I was one of the principle prayer leaders and needed God’s wisdom on encouraging others how to pray.

I came to the point where I had to seek the Lord and ask Him what was on His Heart that would show me how to pray.  I did not get silence from the Lord. Soon the Lord led me to scripture and directed my thinking to pray in line with the principle found in the scripture that He led me to. 

In our Nation, we are faced today with a major crisis as a nation.  Many of us pray and then make up our minds in what seems to be a logical way.  Some are just upset with the choices in front of them that they do not know what to do. 

What all of us should be doing, is not to rely on ourselves, but to look at God’s Word, and ask Him for Wisdom  --(James 1:5).  When we have an impression or hear something --write it down.  Writing what we heard down—(Habakkuk 2:2), gives opportunity to check what we ‘heard’, with the Holy Scriptures.  If it agrees, then that may be how God may want us to pray and respond.  It is important that we take time to listen to what God says.

I encourage all to consider the above in praying for the upcoming elections.  Don’t think for a moment that the choices before us are the only choices—Let God lead us to what He wants. The Lord’s Prayer has a principle that can guide our praying—May Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.  (Matthew 6:10).

Yes, it is a time to humble ourselves and pray and seek the Lord. (II Chronicles 7:14).

©2012 Lewis Turner

PM#0491 Prayer and Involvement With Others.

PM#0491

Prayer and Involvement With Others

Are we involved with others?  By that, I do not mean just a passing involvement, but one which is long term, really takes an interest in others.

When we pray with others, that prayer is an involvement with them.  However, many times do we pray that only scratches the surface superficially?  This may happen because our involvement is very limited.  If we take the time to build a personal relationship with the individual, then that effort should also lead to the opportunity to pray for things close to that person’s heart.  Such prayer could encourage them to look to Jesus.

Why not ask the Lord in prayer to guide you, so that you can be more involved with others, that will help you to pray effectively for them. 

‘Father, I need you to guide me and help me to be more involved with others so I can effectively pray for them.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Showing God's Love

PM#0482

Showing God’s Love

John 12:32, John 14:9, I John 4:8

How can we lift the Love of Christ so high that others will be drawn to it?

We see scripture that if Christ is lifted up, He will draw all men to himself.  Yet many are told “You” must go and evangelize.  The first statement is what Christ tells us.  The second statement is what man tells us.  What man tells us may be following the old saying—if you want it done, do it yourself.

If we want Christ’s help, then how do we lift Christ up?  Christ said, he who has seen me has seen the Father. John 14:9  I John 4:8 says God is love.  Therefore if we have seen Christ we have seen love. Lifting up Christ would be to share God’s love with others. 

Perhaps we should ask the Lord to help us show the love that really lifts Jesus us.  Consider this prayer:  Father, Help me to show your love to others, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.  


The above 'Prayer Minute' is an example of the many One Minute thoughts on prayer that Wheatland Ministries has written.  Many of them can be found on www.Prayerminutes.blogspot.com, and now on www.YouTube.com -- search for 'LewisT777'.

A Prayer to Pray for Pastors

A Prayer for Pastors


 “Lord Jesus, we begin this New Year by thanking You for the opportunity we have serve You.  Each day brings new opportunities, and challenges. You alone know what the future holds for us, and You are faithful.  The good work that You began in us, will be accomplished. (Philippians 1:6)  


I ask You to work in the lives of each member of our congregations in powerful ways this coming year, leading them to grow in their love for Christ.   May we be found faithfully serving You, proclaiming Your love to others, what Christ has done for us.   May we pray for each other out of our love for Christ. Prayer is an Act of Love--Our Love for Christ"  In Jesus Name, Amen.”

Defining the Word Humble found in II Chronicles 7 vs 14

Defining the Word Humble found in II Chronicles 7 vs 14

The Hebrew word for humble has deep meaning which we can attempt to learn by examining the meaning of each letter in the word.  From the meaning of letters of the word, it is possible to develop a meaning for the Hebrew word for humble and gain some insight into the depth of its meaning.  This should always be done in the context of scripture that the word is found in.

In developing the a meaning of the word humble using the meanings of the Hebrew letters, those meanings of each letter of the word humble are listed below followed by a possle letter meaning of humble. 

The meaning is posted after the listing of the letters below.

Humble  wə·yik·kā·nə·‘ū     וְיִכָּנְע֨וּ  Found in II Chronicles 7 vs 14 
Hebrew Strongs’s Number H3665

ו     Vav- Nail, to secure – add, secure, hook (2b) The literal meaning is a nail. The symbolic meaning is "to secure or fasten" "add" "a connection". The letter in grammar serves to connect or join together, two words or phrases as in English our word “and” (1a) (inferred—lasting—vs  Psalms 119:144- עוֹלָם‎ ʿôlām  -everlasting))  F

י    Yud - deed done, to make, power, might- Work, worship (2b) In the ancient Hebrew word pictures, the yod was drawn as a "hand" complete with the arm above the elbow. It symbolized work done - (1a) (note: the picture of the letter Yud-of how it was represented in the Alphabet used in Abraham’s time, looks like a possible handshake-a handshake could infer ‘agreement’.)    JI

     

כּ כ ךְ       Kaph - It's symbolic meaning is to cover, to allow or to open. In the picture Hebrew of Moses it was drawn like what it represented, an open hand. The center of the Hebrew alphabet, it shows the open hand of God's blessing for all who embrace Him. (1a) Open, Allow (2b)   The meaning where kaph is used in a work preceded by a word like ‘lo’ לֹא֙ which is a negative could also infer that in the presence of pure Holiness –all our wrong doings are known.  Therefore, to open would be to show faults (10)  K

נ    Nun-Propagate increase, In the ancient picture language this was pictured as a seed in ancient Hebrew and Egyptian cultures. As mentioned, it represented "life", "posterity", "active life". As used in the Hebrew word for son, the nun symbolized the posterity of the house.(also by inference, Nun could mean purpose—it is used in the word—potter  יֹצְרֵ֔נוּ –see Isaiah 64:8—a potter makes a vessel Humblefor a specific purpose) Continue, heir, son (2b)  N

עָ     Ayin   - see, know, knowledge, experience, insight, symbol of sight and insight and other possible meaning eye and fountain. (1a) watch, know, shade—(to shade could infer hiding) (2b)   O

ו  ן     Vav- Nail, to secure – add, secure, hook (2b) The literal meaning is a nail. The symbolic meaning is "to secure or fasten" "add" "a connection". The letter in grammar serves to connect or join together, two words or phrases as in English our word “and” (1a) (inferred—lasting—vs  Psalms 119:144- עוֹלָם‎ ʿôlām  -everlasting))  F

Possible letter meaning of humble wə·yik·kā·nə·‘ū   וְיִכָּנְע֨וּ :  The deed of sacrifice that opens the insight of life (Life that comes from God).

As you study the word Humble, you will find the meaning of that word does have a significant meaning, and adds much depth to our understanding of II Chronicles 7:14.  

Link to study on Humility-a Patter of Sanctification and Spiritual Renewal based on II Chronicles 7:14:
 http://wheatlandministries.blogspot.com/2007/03/humility-biblical-study-and-proposed.html


©2014 Lewis Turner