Ronald Reagan and His Love of Country President Ronald Reagan, in his great farewell speech to the nation on 1/11/1989, spoke of “The great rediscovery, a rediscovery of our values and our common sense.” Here is that portion of the speech: “...And in all of that time, I won a nickname, ‘The Great Communicator.’ But I never thought it was my style or the words I used that made a difference; it was the content. I wasn’t a great communicator, but I communicated great things, and they didn’t spring full bloom from my brow; they came from the heart of a great nation—from our experience, our wisdom, and our belief in the principles that have guided us for two centuries. They called it the Reagan Revolution. Well, I’ll accept that, but for me, it always seemed more like the great rediscovery, a rediscovery of our values and our common sense…” Sadly, the ground gained under Reagan has been lost. America finds herself once again needing to rediscover her roots. Reagan spoke of those roots in his speech: “...For me, there was a fork in the river, and it was right in the middle of my life. I never meant to go into politics. It wasn’t my intention when I was young. But I was raised to believe you had to pay your way for the blessings bestowed on you. I was happy with my career in the entertainment world, but I ultimately went into politics because I wanted to protect something precious. “Ours was the first revolution in the history of mankind that truly reversed the course of government, and with three little words: ‘We the People.’ ‘We the People’ tell the government what to do; it doesn’t tell us. ‘We the People’ are the driver; the government is the car. And we decide where it should go, and by what route, and how fast. Almost all the world’s constitutions are documents in which governments tell the people what their privileges are. Our Constitution is a document in which "We the People" tell the government what it is allowed to do. ‘We the People’ are free. This belief has been the underlying basis for everything I’ve tried to do these past eight years. “But back in the 1960s, when I began, it seemed to me that we’d begun reversing the order of things—that through more and more rules and regulations and confiscatory taxes, the government was taking more of our money, more of our options, and more of our freedom. I went into politics in part to put up my hand and say, ‘Stop.’ I was a citizen politician, and it seemed the right thing for a citizen to do. “I think we have stopped a lot of what needed stopping. And I hope we have once again reminded people that man is not free unless government is limited. There’s a clear cause and effect here that is as neat and predictable as a law of physics: As government expands, liberty contracts…” Reagan’s call for a return to limited government went largely unheeded. Now, we are feeding the beast - a globalist, Marxist-leaning, out-of-control behemoth. This creature is also feeding the American people lies about who we are as a people, and making every attempt to rob us of patriotism and love of country. The “shining city on a hill” is now considered the oppressive dream of racists and tyrants. Reagan also spoke of this “city” and his love for it: “...Finally, there is a great tradition of warnings in Presidential farewells, and I’ve got one that’s been on my mind for some time. But oddly enough, it starts with one of the things I’m proudest of in the past eight years: the resurgence of national pride that I called the new patriotism. This national feeling is good, but it won’t count for much, and it won’t last unless it’s grounded in thoughtfulness and knowledge. “An informed patriotism is what we want. And are we doing a good enough job teaching our children what America is and what she represents in the long history of the world? Those of us who are over 35 or so years of age grew up in a different America. We were taught, very directly, what it means to be an American. And we absorbed, almost in the air, a love of country and an appreciation of its institutions. If you didn’t get these things from your family, you got them from the neighborhood, from the father down the street who fought in Korea, or the family who lost someone at Anzio. Or you could get a sense of patriotism from school. And if all else failed you could get a sense of patriotism from the popular culture. The movies celebrated democratic values and implicitly reinforced the idea that America was special. TV was like that, too, through the mid-sixties. “But now, we’re about to enter the nineties, and some things have changed. Younger parents aren’t sure that an unambivalent appreciation of America is the right thing to teach modern children. And as for those who create the popular culture, well-grounded patriotism is no longer the style. Our spirit is back, but we haven’t reinstitutionalized it. We’ve got to do a better job of getting across that America is freedom: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom of enterprise. And freedom is special and rare. It’s fragile; it needs production [protection]. “So, we’ve got to teach history based not on what’s in fashion but what’s important: why the Pilgrims came here, who Jimmy Doolittle was, and what those 30 seconds over Tokyo meant. You know, four years ago, on the 40th anniversary of D-day, I read a letter from a young woman writing to her late father, who’d fought on Omaha Beach. Her name was Lisa Zanatta Henn, and she said, ‘We will always remember, we will never forget what the boys of Normandy did.’ Well, let’s help her keep her word. If we forget what we did, we won’t know who we are. I’m warning of an eradication of the American memory that could result, ultimately, in an erosion of the American spirit. Let’s start with some basics: more attention to American history and a greater emphasis on civic ritual. “And let me offer lesson number one about America: All great change in America begins at the dinner table. So, tomorrow night in the kitchen I hope the talking begins. And children, if your parents haven’t been teaching you what it means to be an American, let ’em know and nail ’em on it. That would be a very American thing to do. “And that’s about all I have to say tonight, except for one thing. The past few days, when I’ve been at that window upstairs, I’ve thought a bit of the “shining city upon a hill.” The phrase comes from John Winthrop, who wrote it to describe the America he imagined. What he imagined was important because he was an early Pilgrim, an early freedom man. He journeyed here on what today we’d call a little wooden boat, and like the other Pilgrims, he was looking for a home that would be free. “I’ve spoken of the shining city all my political life, but I don’t know if I ever quite communicated what I saw when I said it. But in my mind, it was a tall, proud city built on rocks stronger than oceans, windswept, God-blessed, and teeming with people of all kinds living in harmony and peace; a city with free ports that hummed with commerce and creativity...”(1) As you know, there’s a presidential debate tonight. I’ll be praying. But I won’t be praying for a political party or a man. I’ll be asking God to give His favor to the man who can best lead us in rediscovering who we are as a nation. I’ll ask God to give favor to the man who believes most in “We the people…” And I’ll ask for His grace on who He knows believes most in “the city on a hill.” Pray with me: Lord, return America to her roots - to You. Give us the leader through this upcoming election who can help save us from our depravity, our stupidity, and our deception. Only You can save our nation; we know this. But leaders matter - give us the one You can most use. We ask in Yeshua’s name, Amen. Our decree: By the mercy of God, America shall be saved! Click on the link below to watch the full video. _________________________________ https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/farewell-address-the-nation

The Nudge Several years ago I was observing a small herd of elk just before dark. The wind was just right, blowing my scent away from them, and I had just enough cover between the herd and myself to crawl within twenty yards or so. Eventually, just to see if I could do it, I crawled very slowly out into the open and watched them. They never saw me. One of the things that intrigued me most was the twitching of the elks’ ears. Ever vigilant, each time they heard a sound, their ears would prick up, in order to hear it even better. Whether eating, drinking, or taking a step, they were always diligent to listen for a potential threat - their lives depended on it. As I watched them, the pricking up of their ears reminded me of a word in Scripture I had studied. I recalled that this was the literal meaning of one of the Hebrew words for “listening.” Qashab(1) means “to prick up the ears like an animal coming to alertness.” This live picture, painted by the elk, was indeed worth a thousand words. One of the places qashab is used is in Proverbs 4:20-22, a fairly well-known passage of Scripture: “My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your sight; keep them in the midst of your heart. For they are life to those who find them and health to their whole body.” (Italics mine) My understanding of “giving attention to” the Lord’s words went to a whole new level as I watched the ears of the ever-vigilant elk. Always listen diligently for His voice, as though your life depends on it, came to mind. No matter what you happen to be doing, remain tuned in to Him. Spending time with God through prayer, worship, and quiet meditation tunes the soul and awakens the heart, enabling us to hear Him. Life is loud - make it quiet down once in a while. Everything else will scream for your attention, but He will not. Holy Spirit refuses to shout above the clamor and dissonance created by other voices and activities. For those who have grown to love the pleasure of His company enough to make time for Him, for those who truly listen, however, the still small voice of Holy Spirit becomes easily discernible. Life gets fast. Too fast. The Economist contributor Dan Montano writes: “Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion, or it will be killed. Every morning, a lion wakes up. It knows it must outrun the slowest gazelle, or it will starve to death. It doesn’t matter whether you are a lion or a gazelle; when the sun comes up, you’d better be running.”(2) How true, and it’s true for us humans, as well. It should describe the business world, however, not our devotional lives. Speed has its place and at times, is necessary. But when listening for Holy Spirit, listen slowly. He is patient but refuses to be trivialized by casual glances and cursory conversations. Like any friend, He wants to be valued. Turn aside and listen for His voice. This is one of the meanings of another word in Proverbs 4:20, “incline” (natah).(3) Moses saw a bush on fire but wasn’t being consumed; he decided to “turn aside” and see it (Exodus 3:3). When he did, the Lord spoke to Him. If we turn aside, He will speak to us, as well. But He won’t speak until we are captivated enough to turn aside. This word natah literally means “to stretch toward, as in craning the neck in order to see or hear better.” The long-necked bird we call a crane provides the genesis for this colloquialism. “Stretch” your neck toward God in order to easily and clearly hear His sayings. Show Him worth; assign Him value; demonstrate an interest in His words. If you do, He will speak. Our friend Jacquie Tyre released a prophetic word recently, wherein the Lord was telling us to listen for His instructions, as opposed to being distracted by other voices. Holy Spirit said: “People have ways of crossing over thresholds that include making deals, compromises, and exchanges with the guardians of the threshold. But, My Kingdom saints must not cross thresholds in such a way. Be alert; watch carefully for these enticements offered to grant access to the frontiers you are seeking to pioneer. “The delays you face serve to reveal and test the heart by allowing opportunities to present themselves that seem expedient. Expedient, but not of Me, expedient but requiring a price that will be greater than expected. “Wait, watch, and listen for the still, small voice that sounds the alarm. Know that I am training your senses to be tuned to My slightest movement so that in the moment, in the twinkling of an eye, you will know, ‘This is the way walk in it,’ or ‘Stop, do not go that way.’ “Much advancement has been lost over the years by My people being moved by “expediency” and the way that seems right to man. “Stop. Wait. Listen. Watch. I have a way, a plan for you to cross over every threshold and enter into the Kingdom assignments I have for you.” God’s word tells us in Romans 8:14, “For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons and daughters of God” (NASB). The word translated as sons and daughters in this verse is huios,(4) meaning a person who has fully matured into responsible adulthood and can be trusted with full authority. One of the standards for this maturity is “being led by the Spirit.” I like The Passion Translation’s version of this verse, “The mature children of God are those who are moved by the impulses of the Holy Spirit.” The accompanying note in TPT says, “The Greek is quite emphatic: ‘those and only those.’” Those, and only those who are led by - moved by - the “impulses” of Holy Spirit can be considered fully mature sons and daughters. Verse 19 tells us the earth longs for these sons and daughters to manifest. If you have learned to hear, take your place in God’s plan; if you’re not quite there yet, become one of these hearers. Though “led” is a good translation in Romans 8:14, I also like the word “impulses” used in The Passion Translation. It conveys the idea of promptings, feelings, notions, and thoughts. Leadings from Holy Spirit are often gentle, like the “still small voice” to Elijah in 1 Kings 19:12. The Message Translation calls it “a gentle and quiet whisper,” and the NASB says “a sound of a gentle blowing.” The point is clear: God’s voice often comes to us gently. Sometimes, it isn’t a voice at all, but just a nudge, a prompting. Learn to listen, to feel, to sense Him. Pray with me: Father, give us twitching ears like the elk, inclining them to listen for Your voice, picking up on the impulses of Your Spirit. Give us undistracted hearts that turn aside to see and listen. Life is so loud, so fast, so full. Remind us, please, of what matters most. You said that as Your sheep, we know Your voice. We declare, therefore, that we ARE able to hear You; we do have ears to hear what You say. We will hear through Your written Word, and we will hear the voice of Holy Spirit. We will be alert, and will not be sidetracked by supposed “shortcuts,” which are actually detours. Teach us to wait when we need to wait, and to only move when You tell us to move. Crossing the Jordan when it’s in flood stage doesn’t seem right, but sometimes You want to demonstrate Your power by cutting it off (Joshua 3). Your time is the only right time for crossing into the new. So, in all of our ways, we acknowledge You, and trust You to direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Our decree: We decree that we will wait and listen, so we can follow Holy Spirit’s plan. Click on the link below to watch the full video. You can learn more about Jacquie at JacquieTyre.com. _____________________________ James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 7181 African folklore, as told by Dan Montano, “Lions or Gazelles?” The Economist, 1985, p. 37. James Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, ref. no. 5186. Ibid., ref. no. 5207.

At the end of today’s post we will be taking communion. Please pause and gather your own communion elements, so you can also join me, as we take of communion. INTRODUCTION In the Scriptures, God used bread to picture His presence. From the manna in the wilderness to the showbread in the Tabernacle of Moses, to Jesus’ own declarations of “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35, 48), God and His presence are pictured by bread. Using this allegory, He wants us to know we can partake of His presence, enjoy His presence, and be carriers of His presence. And through our union with Christ, God wants to “transform our lives into living bread,” says Mary Jo Pierce, in order to feed His life and presence to others. Using her love of baking bread, God taught Mary Jo Pierce volumes about worship, prayer, enjoying His presence, the rhythms of work and rest, and “becoming bread” for others. Ceci and I have known Mary Jo for many years and have grown to greatly value her walk with the Lord. When endorsing her book, Let It Rise, I spoke of the difference between head knowledge and experiential knowledge, “Some authors and teachers are well-informed, diligent students and, therefore, can dispense good information. Then there are those who have actually fleshed out the teaching, putting their theories to the test until they are proven and now laced with wisdom.” Mary understands prayer, not just because she has studied it, but because she does it. I also said of Mary Jo that because she lives what she teaches, “You can trust her.” Today’s post comes from this wonderful book, Let It Rise: Sacred Ingredients for a Life of Prayer. The final of the 40 short chapters is appropriately titled: Becoming Bread. It sums up the message of the book, ends with communion, and I’m sharing it with you today. Enjoy! Today’s title; using the name of the book. _______________________________________________________________________________ Let It Rise Dear friends, here we are at the end of this book - my love offering to the Lord and to you. It's been a great joy welcoming you into my prayer room and kitchen. We’ve spent time talking, pondering, and processing what bread means to us and how it is reflected in our life of prayer. In the beginning and the end, it’s all about Jesus, the Bread of Life, and becoming, living, praying, loving, and serving like He did — His life in and through us. We are enriched bread. As we follow and partake of His example, teachings, character, and the whole of who He is, we are becoming more like Jesus. As we mature in our relationship with God and grow our prayer life, we are becoming more like Jesus. Becoming bread is cultivating His presence, cooperating with His presence, and carrying His presence with us wherever we go. We become that life of prayer that strengthens others, contends for the will of God, and carries His compassion, mercy, goodness, and faithfulness. Jesus tells us to remember His ultimate redemptive sacrifice - His giving His life for us - as we take communion. “Do this in remembrance of Me” (Luke 22:19). In these final pages, allow me to take you on a journey through some of Jesus’ final days on earth before He ascended to heaven. He was broken for us so that we might be made whole and be released to fulfill His Great Commission. And if you’re able, let’s take communion and partake of His bread (body) and wine (blood) together. Let us go to Gethsemane. Today, we’re going to go into the garden from where the deepest groans, that sent shock waves through heaven and earth, came. Where the first drops of covenant blood were shed for you and me. Where the ultimate prayer of “Not my will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42), brought forth God’s before-creation plan for you and me! I’ve been to Gethsemane in early spring when the ground is lifeless and brown. It reminded me of the wilderness, the desert, and death. The only signs of life and indications of hope were the red poppies populating the ground. Each one looked like a drop of blood. Such holy, surrendered ground. Such brokenness. Such beauty. Jesus shows us His redemptive power in this holy place. We become bread as we learn to live a surrendered life, even and especially in our wilderness, our desert, and our brokenness. Let us go to Golgotha. There, on a hill, the great exchange took place - Jesus’ life for our lives. There, the greatest intercession and mediation for you and me took place. • Mercy met judgment. • Righteousness met sin. • Light met darkness. • Humility met pride. • Love met hate. • Life met death. • A cursed One on a tree met the curse that originated from a tree.(1) I’ve been to Golgotha, that city on a hill. Outside the city walls, away from the maddening and mocking crowds, there was the ultimate tent of meeting where Jesus joined the Father and Holy Spirit. Jesus’ body was broken and blessed. The most profound moving visual I’ve ever seen of the moment when Jesus took His last breath was the movie The Passion. The moment when Jesus declared, “It is finished,” heaven opened, and a tear from our Father fell from heaven to earth, dropping at the foot of the Cross. I wonder if that tear is what caused the earth to quake. Here, our Bread of Life was broken, and Father God blessed it so we can become more like Him. Let us go to the Sea of Galilee. Jesus has risen from the dead. The apostles are defaulting to what they know best - fishing. What is in my hand? And then a familiar Friend’s voice asks, “Children, have you any food?” (John 21:5). Jesus then gives instruction on where to cast their net. Recognizing Jesus as their Messiah, their Lord, the disciples rush to join Him. Jesus invites them to bring what they caught, and they share a last meal by the seashore where Peter walked on water, Jesus calmed the sea, and the fish and loaves were multiplied. I’ve been to the Sea of Galilee, and on its shores, I have prayed and met with the resurrected Jesus. He loves to break bread, bless it, and feed His sheep. You and me! Let us take communion. Let’s celebrate all He has done for us and will continue to do as we pursue a life of prayer by taking communion. Take the bread and pray with me: Lord, this broken piece of bread represents the beauty of Your broken life and my broken life coming together right now. I am mindful of the cost You paid, and of the cost I’m willing to pay to be one in Spirit. My heart is full of gratitude as I lift up this bread, and lift up the name of Jesus. May your life be lifted up and Your name represented in my life, as I become bread. Amen. Now take the cup: Today, Lord, I’m calling on the very first miracle that You performed at the wedding feast. I pray my life will be transformed as new wine - the best saved for last. Lord, I take this cup with a heart full of gratitude, knowing that Your blood shed for me has the power and the love to make us one. I take this cup gratefully. Amen. Just as bread, made of the simple ingredients of flour, honey, yeast, and salt, rises with a sweet aroma, so do our lives of prayer as we cultivate the sacred ingredients of His presence, rest, worship, and Word. The apostle Paul wrote, “Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God” (Ephesians 5:2 NLT). Let the aroma of our lives, poured out for Jesus, rise! I’m praying for your beautiful, broken, blessed, becoming bread life of prayer. You are a sweet aroma. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Today’s post was contributed by Mary Jo Pierce and taken from her book Let It Rise, Sacred Ingredients for a Life of Prayer. You can find out more about Mary Jo at MaryJoPierce.com. ____________________________________________ Dutch Sheets, Intercessory Prayer: How God Can Use Your Prayers to Move Heaven and Earth (Bloomington, MN: Bethany House Publishers, 1996), Kindle edition.

No More Delay! I am always looking, and re-looking, at words given to other leaders. I have been rereading a word (and post) given to my brother Tim a year and a half ago. Although I shared a post from him last Friday, I feel this particular word needs to be shared again. It is very timely and important for now. I have updated and expanded it, adding thoughts of my own. I believe you’ll be encouraged. Matthew 1:18-23 tells us of the supernatural conception of Jesus. These verses explain that Mary’s pregnancy was caused by Holy Spirit. Luke’s gospel says His overshadowing presence surrounded Mary, causing her to conceive Christ (Luke 1:35). The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). Holy Spirit still hovers over people, depositing His life, deliverances, healings, and, yes, His words. God’s Words are called seeds (Matthew 13; Mark 4 Luke 8; 1 Peter 1:23). And though the seed of God’s Word planted in us is spiritual, not the eternal Word made flesh, it is no less alive and grows to produce its fruit. The new birth pictures this (1 Peter 1:23), as does revelation, which starts as a spiritual seed and grows into full understanding. Through Holy Spirit’s overshadowing presence around and within us, God wants to cause this spiritual conception in our spirits. His purposes and revelation can be conceived in us; thoughts and dreams from God can be planted in our hearts. This can even occur corporately as our worship brings the hovering presence of Holy Spirit into our gatherings. In this atmosphere, callings from King Jesus, destiny opportunities, visions, strategies, goals, and revelations are often conceived in us. But also, like Mary and the person Jesus spoke of in the parable of the sower, we must steward and bring to birth the seeds planted in us by Holy Spirit. When Christ was placed in Mary, He was in an embryonic state. What she had been given, she stewarded to full term, feeding, protecting, and caring for the child until His birth. We, too, must steward and carry to full term the seeds of promise Holy Spirit plants within us, feeding them by further abiding in God’s Word, protecting them with intercession, and decreeing them in faith. EMBRYONIC SERMONS Consistent with this, in the Message Translation, the angel actually refers to Isaiah’s prophecy of the birth of Christ as an “embryonic sermon.” Regarding Mary’s conception, Matthew says, “This will bring Isaiah the prophet’s embryonic sermon to full term” (Matthew 1:22). What an intriguing statement - Matthew actually called prophecy an “embryonic sermon,” comparing it to a child in its embryonic state! As “embryos,” much prophecy and promises from God must be cared for, fed, brought to full term, and then delivered/birthed. This is consistent with Jesus saying in the sower parables that we must tend to His words. Much prophecy is God’s offer to us, not a guaranteed outcome, just as are personal promises in His Word. Isaiah’s prophecy regarding the Messiah was certainly a guarantee, but personal words to people and places often are not. Paul told Timothy to use the prophetic words given to him in spiritual warfare, “By them, you fight the good fight” (1 Timothy 1:18). The obvious insinuation is that the promises given to Him by Holy Spirit were not going to just automatically materialize. Elijah’s prophecy of rain (1 Kings 18:1, 41) had to be birthed through prayer (verses 42-46). The Ekklesia has been in a season where prophecy after prophecy has been released, causing God’s plans to be “conceived” in us. We have been praying them. And like a pregnant woman who is not yet “showing,” the promises have been growing before being seen. Just because they aren’t yet seen doesn’t mean they’re not alive. Keep stewarding, tending, praying over, and declaring God’s promises. Too often, prophetic words are abandoned and neglected - forgotten about. To the contrary, we must keep the words and promises watered by faith and decrees, which cause them to grow. We have been doing so, and the “pregnancy” is beginning to “show.” Ekklesia hubs and the body of Christ are experiencing greater levels of God’s presence and power. Embryonic sermons and prophetic words are growing as they incubate in Holy Spirit’s hovering presence. We would all prefer to receive “fully grown” prophecies and promises. When this isn’t the case, we often doubt and waver. But we must understand our responsibility in growing these “embryonic sermons” to full term. Our faith must remain strong through those times until “the fullness of time” arrives (see Galatians 4:4). Psalm 103:20 tells us that angels listen to our decrees. I have heard the Ekklesia many times decree, “No more delay.” Because of this, supernatural occurrences are taking place. Four years ago, the Lord told me [Tim] there would now come a new Pentecost, and everything in His Kingdom would begin to accelerate. It is amazing how delays have been dealt with since that word was given. I believe that in the past several years, there has been more angelic activity on earth than ever before. Our prayers have enabled Holy Spirit and His angels to overturn delays, and bring to full term many spirit-conceived dreams, visions, revelations, and prophecies. Everything in Christ’s kingdom is accelerating, just as He said they would. Supernatural shifts are occurring, and a mega-move of God’s Holy Spirit is coming to full term. The greatest push of the Kingdom of God on earth is now being resourced by Holy Spirit. Prodigals are coming home. We are pregnant with miracles and are “showing”; some are now birthing these miracles. We’re pregnant with outpourings of Holy Spirit, rivers of living water. We are carrying governmental authority to disciple nations and power to pull down demonic strongholds. Demonic princes will lose their thrones, and captives will be delivered. In conclusion, there are embryos we have fed and watered which have grown. These embryos are at full term. What we have conceived, believed, and fought for is now mature and ready for birthing. Harvests are ready to be reaped! What we have conceived by Holy Spirit’s hovering presence will now be seen in the earth realm. We have stepped into accelerated times - no more delay! Refuse to give up on what God said. Keep standing, believing, and decreeing His promises. Pray with me: Father, we feel that You are shifting the times and seasons, bringing a time of acceleration. What we’ve been carrying in our spiritual wombs, both individually and corporately, will now begin manifesting. We thank You for those who have tenaciously stood for what You told them, faithfully carrying and feeding what You planted and conceived in them. Now, “embryonic sermons” are coming to full term. We believe it is time to give birth, that labor has begun. Breakthroughs, dreams and visions, deliverances, and the salvation of millions are now in the birth canal. Bring this forth speedily. Father, we ask for pure hearts that carry no envy or jealousy when newborn believers, or those who did not labor in prayer for this revival, are used in it (Matthew 20:1-16). Give them gifts and anointings, enabling them to reap alongside those who have been laboring. We are one body and we will need all hands on deck. When prodigals come home, after You give them their robe and ring (Luke 15:11-32), hand them a sickle! Strengthen and unite Your church for this time. May we be found faithful! In Yeshua’s name, we pray this, amen! Our decree: We decree that the body of Christ will now birth that which we have been carrying. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Today’s post was contributed in part by my brother Tim. You can find out more about him at TimSheets.org.

INTRODUCTION My brother, Tim, sent the following article. As always, it is very encouraging, edifying, and challenging. Allow your heart and spirit to receive this word as I share it with you today. The title is: ______________________________________________________________________________ King Jesus Takes Center Stage John the Baptist was called the Forerunner of Christ. In other words, his assignment was to prepare the way for Christ to be revealed. I believe the apostolic and the prophetic movements of the last few years have also carried forerunner type of anointings, preparing the way for Christ to be revealed in greater measure than before. I believe it is now time for this revealing to occur. John said the following to those who were asking about Jesus. I believe it is prophetic for us now. “I have said it many times, and you have heard me—I am not the Anointed One; I am the one who comes before Him. If you are confused, consider this: the groom is the one with the bride. The best man takes his place close by and listens for him. When he hears the voice of the groom, he is swept up in the joy of the moment. So hear me. My joy could not be more complete. He, the groom, must take center stage; and I, the best man, must step to His side.” (John 3:28-30 The Voice) What a picture of this moment. Jesus must take center stage and we the groomsmen, the bridesmaids, the bride, the attendants, must step to His side. We’re moving into times when Holy Spirit says Jesus the King will take center stage. He must - in order to see the shakings have their intended effects. He must - to see the necessary correction and change. We are entering days when Christ takes center stage to shake and expose evil, strengthen His Ekklesia, and bring about great change. The true church, Christ’s bride, must now step to His side in new, visible, and vocal ways. As He takes center stage, we must stand with Him. We will not be spineless or weak, and we will not be intimidated, subjecting ourselves to godless dynasties. We will not bow to authoritarian leaders in America or any other government. We will not be bland Christians presenting bland services, preaching bland messages. We will step to Christ’s side and stand with Him in great boldness. A glorious remnant that desires change is rising. They’re hungry for outpourings, signs, wonders, miracles, revival, and freedom. They know this is their inheritance as the sons and daughters of God. In these next eight months, we will see the King of Kings begin to take center stage. The starring role in this supernatural time will not be politicians clinging to power in nations they’ve gripped with iron fists. No, the starring role has been reserved for another, He who declared, “All power is given to Me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18). The starring role has been reserved for the resurrected King of Glory. In earth’s great drama, He emerged as the Creator. After the Fall, His Cross provided freedom from sin, and His resurrection broke the power of death. In the coming scene of this drama, He will step to center stage with His glorious church at His side. Hear the word of the Lord, “Those who stand with Me will see that I stand with them. Those who come to My side will see the days of shaking become days of personal and corporate triumph. For I will release winds of my spirit that bring power to conquer. My people will defeat their enemies and enjoy the spoils of victory. They will proclaim, ‘Our enemies have resourced us. We have more because of war; it has turned for our good.’ They will say, ‘The enemy’s plans have collapsed around them and their plans have failed.’ They, My people, will say, ‘Their words, the words of our enemies, have returned upon them vexing their souls. The enemies’ words have proclaimed their own sentencing. They’ve built their own gallows’. They will say, ‘Our enemies have been poisoned by their own venom. Our enemies have been trapped in traps laid for us.’ “‘For you will rejoice,’ says the Lord. ‘You will sing and you will dance with joy, proclaiming, “We have escaped as birds out of the snares of the fowler.” I am exposing the snares of wokeism, progressivism, and humanism. Their spokesmen will begin to walk in miry clay while you go free. You will see changes of leadership in natural and spiritual realms, for a new breed of leaders will now be revealed in My Kingdom. These are people who have come to My side. They will now rise in power, for I will advocate for them and anoint them with My favor. These are those who come from My presence, carrying the weight of My glory. They would not compromise, refusing to be harnessed by the world. They would not bow to darkness, appease humanism’s ways, bend their knees to blended religion, or kiss the ring of Baal. They are those who defy the doctrines of demons. “‘These who stood unashamed of Me - I will stand unashamed for them. The Lord of hosts promises that great victories are at hand; I will oversee their completion. Great deliverance is in process. I will remove the demonic veil hiding My Kingdom’s enemies. I will make your enemies vulnerable to you, to the authority I gave you. They are vulnerable to your decree,’ says the Lord. “‘For you will now see the course of history, the course of nations change. History makers are coming to My side and I will use them to bring this change, leading in historic transitions. Know and trust that the shaking will cause historic change. Your decrees of My words release My plans to alter governments and end tyrannical oppression. Alterations are now being made. Transfers of power will be seen. For I have the right to bring down one and exalt another. I decide who rises and falls. I can put down one and lift up another. I am doing so now, shaking governments and lands that have defied Me. I will come to center stage and stand with My heirs, My church, whom I love and for whom I gave Myself. “‘There will now be seen throughout the earth a functioning Ekklesia - an Ekklesia functioning in the midst of the world's dysfunction. Multiplied grace is now being poured out. Bound souls will be set free, captives will be delivered, and those blinded by iniquity will be liberated from dark bondage. The rains of heaven will pour in torrential downpours, Kingdom revival will accelerate. Signs, wonders, and miracles will validate My Ekklesia, notable miracles leaping forth. All manner of sickness and disease will be healed as the King takes center stage.’” Pray with me: Lord, we declare our confidence in You, standing strong upon Your promises, engaging our faith for this moment. Enable us to be those who step to Your side now in visible, powerful ways. We believe You have orchestrated the ages, creating a time such as this when the world will see You take Your position as the King of Kings. Take center stage in America and in the nations. Break strongholds, shake what needs to be shaken, pour Your glory on Your Ekklesia. Father, when Christ came there were no natural signs that the course of history was about to change. But You knew it was the right time, the fullness of time. In seasons leading up to past revivals, it has rarely looked like positive change was imminent. Yet, in the hidden realm of the spirit, conditions were right and the harvest was ripe. We believe this is true now. Harvest fields of the earth are ready for harvesting. Bring this. Step onto the stage and reap! Many are asking for this. Many laborers have been preparing - send them forth now. Keep Your intercessors focused and strong. Do not allow them to be distracted by violence, wars, political campaigns, or difficult circumstances. May they keep their eyes on the prize: earth’s greatest harvest ever. We ask these things in Yeshua’s name. Amen. Our decree: We declare that King Jesus is taking center stage. We will step to His side as He leads us to breakthrough. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Today’s post was contributed by my brother, Tim. You can learn more about him at TimSheets.org.

Messiah, the Healer At times, God does things in unusual ways. He once spit in the mud, made clay from it, rubbed it in a blind man’s eyes, then instructed him to go wash it out in the pool of Siloam (John 9:6). What was that all about?! The following explanation from GotQuestions.org gives insight. “Several rabbinic traditions identified the Pool of Siloam as the Messiah’s Pool. “Because the pool was near the temple, its water was used for a special ceremony during the Feast of Tabernacles. Every morning during that joyful feast, a priest would take a golden vessel to the Pool of Siloam [which means “sent”], fill it with water from the pool, and bring it back to the altar amid the shouts of the people. Then…that priest poured out the water on the west side of the altar, and another priest poured a drink offering of wine on the east side of the altar. This ritual was probably to illustrate Isaiah 12:3, ‘With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.’ “However, on the eighth and final day of the feast, the ritual was not repeated. And that is exactly when Jesus chose to make a startling announcement: ‘On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them”’ (John 7:37–38). On the one day of the feast when no water was poured, Jesus stood up and filled the gap. The ‘water’ He offers (the Holy Spirit, verse 39) is better than the waters of Siloam. “In John 9, Jesus meets a man born blind…Jesus heals the man. But it is interesting how Jesus chose to heal him: He spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. ‘Go,’ he told him, ‘wash in the Pool of Siloam’ ([which again, means ‘Sent’] So the man went and washed, and came home seeing (John 9:6–7). So, the blind man was sent to a pool called ‘Sent’ by the One who was Himself sent by God into the world (John 3:17; 10:36).”(1) Christ’s DNA of creative life overcame the man’s blindness and healed his eyes. Messiah’s well of salvation is still bringing life and healing today. My friend Ken Malone shares a powerful testimony of a way to tap into this healing power, and drink from the river of life. Ken Malone - Giving Thanks “Did you know that there are multiple ways to experience the healing power of the Holy Spirit? Many people focus on only one or two of these ways. Those seeking healing often overlook the significant avenue of giving thanks as a means of receiving healing. Many of us, including myself, typically ask others to pray for us and/or have someone lay hands on us, as is taught in the Bible (Mark 16:18). “However, perhaps the Holy Spirit wants to utilize a different approach. First Thessalonians 5:18 tells us, ‘And in the midst of everything be always giving thanks, for this is God’s perfect plan for you in Christ Jesus.’ (TPT) “In 2018, I had the honor of hosting Gerald Derstine, a general in the faith, at Kingdom Gate Worship Center. At 90 years old, he appeared to be in excellent health. As we sat together in the green room before the service, Gerald shared a powerful testimony with me. He said, ‘Ken, I feel better now than 10 years ago.’ “I was taken aback and asked, ‘How can you feel better at 90 than you did at 80?’ “Derstine explained that ten years ago, he had struggled with severe arthritis in his hips and back, which made every step a painful endeavor. His story of overcoming such difficulties was truly inspiring: ‘I went to the Lord and asked why I wasn’t being healed. Holy Spirit told me that it was because I wasn’t giving thanks. I told my wife, Beulah, that if she heard me praising and thanking the Lord, instead of complaining, I was following Holy Spirit's counsel. I began worshipping, praising, and thanking the Lord, even in the midst of my suffering. Two days later, I was healed. My expressions of gratitude to the Lord turned into declarations of faith, which led to my recovery from debilitating arthritis.’ “God had done such a work of healing in Gerald’s life that after his wife, Beulah, went to see Jesus, he remarried at the age of 89. “Wow! “I recently heard Bill Johnson say, ‘God inhabits my praise. There is [also] something out there that wants to inhabit my complaints.’ “Drawing near to the Lord in worship, praise, and thanksgiving not only fills our hearts with inspiration and joy, it also draws God close to us. Look at James 4:8, ‘Move your heart closer and closer to God, and He will come even closer to you.’ (TPT) Thanksgiving is a way that we draw near to Him. “First Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to ‘give thanks in all circumstances.’ This doesn’t mean we should thank God for our problems, sickness, or disease. We should remember that God doesn’t give us sickness and disease; He gives healing and life. James 1:17 reassures us that ‘every good and perfect gift is from above.’ So, even in the midst of trials, let’s remember to give thanks! “Expressing gratitude to the Lord for our healing, deliverance, blessings, prosperity, and the salvation of loved ones and friends is a powerful declaration of faith. It’s a way of saying, ‘Father, I thank You in advance for healing me. Father, I praise You for saving my children.’ “Today, fulfill His perfect plan; give Him thanks. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise (Psalm 100:4). And expect the works of the Lord to manifest in you and for you.” Pray with me: Father, we are grateful for Your son, Jesus. Forgive us for complaining over the issues we face, rather than turning to You in faith and thanksgiving. According to Isaiah 53:5, You bore stripes in Your body for our healing. We appreciate the healing of our bodies according to Your Word. Holy Spirit, we are thankful for Your work in our bodies to bring divine healing. And Father, we thank You for what You are doing in America and throughout the world. Thank You for revival; thank You for reformation. Thank You for saving a billion or more people in our time. Thank You for healing millions, manifesting the work of Christ the Healer. Thank You for removing corruption from our government, and for restoring America to paths of righteousness. Thank You for reviving the Church. We give this thanks in the name of Yeshua. Amen. Our decree: We declare that God is a good Father, Jesus is our Healer, and Holy Spirit’s power is available to us. And we are thankful! https://www.gotquestions.org/Pool-of-Siloam.html Click on the link below to watch the full video. You can contact Ken Malone at Forerunner-Ministries.org.

It’s Time For A Realignment I think I’m finally adjusted. For many years, people have adjusted me. In fact, I’ve been adjusted so many times - I’ve had adjustments to my adjustments - that I think I may finally be fully adjusted. My dad adjusted my attitude when I was growing up. He used a belt, menacing looks, strong words, the loss of privileges, and monetary deprivation. In recent years, my wife has adjusted my thinking more than once. She uses looks and words, also. Because of her I have adjusted my thinking toward the art of communication, the importance of remembering certain dates, the use of remote controls, the number of shoes a woman needs in order to function, and the broad-ranging effects of hormones. My dentist has adjusted my bite so my teeth will last longer and my jaws will feel better. He also took a bite out of my wallet. My chiropractor has adjusted my back and neck, so I will feel better. One time, he said I had a subluxation. “Is that good or bad?” I asked. “Bad.” “Can you take it out?” I said, trying not to show my alarm. “No. You don’t extract subluxations - where have you been, the dentist? But if you’ll come in 50 times, I can adjust it,” he assured me. I don’t know if I still have the subluxation, but I’m adjusted. So is my bank balance. My insurance adjuster did his thing the other day. I always wondered why they called them adjusters; but when the pipes froze and burst in my garage, he adjusted my thinking, explaining to me what the insurance company was and wasn’t going to give me to fix my pipes, the sheetrock, and my car, which was scratched from falling debris. By explaining to me what all the clauses, exceptions, and deductions meant, it seems that most of what I had been paying for was the peace of mind that comes from knowing he would be there to personally explain to me what he couldn’t do. I certainly felt adjusted. The policeman adjusted my thinking toward speed (thank God for civil servants!), my jeweler toward the value of rocks, and Starbucks toward the price of a cup of coffee…as you can see, I’m well-adjusted. The Heavenly Chiropractor God adjusts us, also. He has adjusted me many times: my heart, my thinking, my direction, even my hopes and dreams. He also adjusts nations. There is a fascinating word in the New Testament, katartizo,(1) that relates to this. It means “to adjust; to put a thing in its appropriate position.” The word is used in the context of mending nets (see Matthew 4:21), repairing schisms or relational breaks (see 1 Corinthians 1:10), and even restoring broken lives (see Galatians 6:1). The word has also been used to describe the restoration of a dislocated joint or a broken bone. So, as you can see, the concept of this word involves proper alignment, including realignment, resulting in healing or restoration. It should come as no surprise that God uses this word to describe the proper alignment of time and seasons. In other words, He declares in advance His plans for the future of nations and peoples of the earth. Hebrews 11:3 says, in its more literal and accurate rendering, that the “ages” (Greek-aiones)(2) were “properly aligned or connected” (Greek-katartizo)(3) by the word or decree of the Lord. In other words, God decreed the flow of history. History Must Be Healed At times, however, breaches occur that cause the need for corrections in this flow of history. Simply stated, history needs to be healed. Whether it be on a corporate level, such as the Fall of humanity, wars, racial division, etc., or on a more individual level in the sense of broken relationships, loss, etc., the fact is that history often needs healing. This corporate level of healing is what is referred to in verses like Isaiah 58:12: “Those from among you will rebuild the ancient ruins; you will raise up the age-old foundations; and you will be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of the streets in which to dwell” (NAS), ( also see Isaiah 61:4.) This is also the concept spoken of in Second Chronicles 7:14: “[If] My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (NAS). God, the holy Chiropractor of history, heals our dislocations - our subluxations. He katartisis-es the aiones. This occurs through acts of repentance, reconciliation, forgiveness, prayer, fasting, prophetic decrees, and other biblical actions, all of which are effective because of the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Due to the positive effects of much prayer, fasting, repentance, etc., on the part of many, it is now time for another season of realignment, repairing, rebuilding, restoring, and healing. We, as well as many other intercessors around the nation find ourselves in a time of history where we can stand in the gap and see forgiveness, salvation, healing, and restoration (see Ezekiel 22:30-31). Spiritually dislocated places will be realigned with the plan and purposes of God. Pray with me: Father, thank You for Your heart of restoration. You delight in healing hearts…and nations. We ask for the winds of change that are blowing around the world to be filled with the wind of Your Spirit, bringing healing adjustments. Introduce entire nations to the saving power of Jesus Christ. Heal the spiritual dislocations and repair the breaches. Do this for America. Heal our nation of the horrible breaches between races and the division from different ideologies. And heal us of the separation from You that has come over the past several years. Heal our land. We also ask this for individuals. Heal broken hearts and mend torn lives. Heal relationships, marriages, minds, emotions, and bodies. Most of all, restore many from the brokenness of separation from You. Bring life to their spirits, abundant life. In Yeshua’s name we ask this, amen. Our decree: We decree that heavenly adjustments are being released to people and nations, bringing wholeness and life. Today’s post was taken from Releasing the Prophetic Destiny of a Nation. Chuck Pierce and I wrote this book after our 50-State Tour. It is being re-released on July 2, adding a few chapters from my brother, Tim Sheets. You will be able to order it from our bookstore at DutchSheets.org. Click on the link below to watch the full video. James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 2675. Ibid., ref. no. 5437. Ibid., ref., no. 2675.

INTRODUCTION The world is surely moving into more shaking and great revival. As we do, many people are wondering how to pray. IFA (Intercessors for America) has released the following outstanding article to help us do so. As always, this cutting-edge ministry is giving us biblical, practical, and prophetic (discerning the times) insights. It is our privilege to share it with you today. The article gives 6 principles/heart conditions necessary for revival, followed by specific prayer points.  I will read the 6 principles, and the prayer points are here for you in the written version of the post, and on the link to IFA’s article. _________________________________________________________________________ Prayer Points for Revival Revivals are concentrated periods of intense and often widespread ministry by the Holy Spirit. They have occurred throughout history, perhaps dating back to the days when Israel was in Egypt. Revivals come in many forms and for various reasons, but they always fall into two categories: 1. Movements of spiritual renewal and reformation among God’s people; 2. An outpouring of conviction among unbelievers, leading to repentance from sin and the conversions of many. Intercessors play a vital role in the ignition and spread of any revival. Part “special-ops” teams and part “watchmen on the wall,” intercessors pray for revival to come and that it would be protected from distractions and distortions once it does come. During the revival of 1949 on the Hebrides islands, evangelist Duncan Campbell observed that intercessors were engaged in “travailing prayer,” which is described as prayer “in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!” (Galatians 4:19). This kind of praying is burdened, focused, pressing, and agonized, to a depth common among revivals but unfamiliar to today’s comfort-and-entertainment-obsessed church culture. God seeks intercessors who are willing to travail in prayer. Is He calling you? We are at a crucial point this year. Outpourings of spiritual renewal have come to Asbury University and have spread from there to numerous other colleges and universities, Christian and secular. How can we, God’s appointed intercessors, fan the flames of revival so that they sweep across America and the world? God has the power to stir up spiritual fervor in people’s hearts (see Ezra 1:1,5). So the key is to pray that God would stir up in people the heart conditions for revival that He has laid out in the Bible. When Solomon dedicated the temple he had built and God’s glory filled it, the Lord spoke directly to him in a dream at night. His words to the king describe the heart conditions to which He responds with revival. “When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command the locust to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, if My people who are called by My name humble themselves, and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place.” (2 Chronicles 7:13–15) 1. Desperation God’s shutting up the heavens or commanding locusts to devour the land are examples of the shakings He allows when His people forsake Him, neglect Him, or rebel against Him. As Mario Murillo says: “Before a great awakening, there must be a rude awakening.” Adversity greater than human self-sufficiency can handle will bring us to the end of ourselves and make us realize our need for God. It is the first step toward people’s getting right with Him. Despair brings about the other heart conditions to which God responds. Prayer Points: Pray Psalm 139:23–24: Before you pray for holy desperation in others, ask the Lord to reveal any trace of being too comfortable, self-sufficient, and independent in your own heart. Pray according to Proverbs 9:1, that America’s moral slide, both inside and outside the Church, will fill God’s people with holy fear and a burning desire to seek Him. Pray through James 5:4–6 and Revelation 3:15–20 for the Holy Spirit to open our eyes and burden our hearts against any worldliness and lukewarm condition in the Church. Pray through the prophecy and promise of Zechariah 14:13–16 for the growing instability in the U.S. to bring about a godly fear in our nation that will direct hearts to return to God and worship Him. 2. Humility The realization that we are very limited and have sinned against God by trying to go it alone and by doing what is right in our own eyes leads us to humble ourselves. Humility is a precursor to seeking His forgiveness and restoration. It implies an admission of guilt and a confession of sin in holy fear of the chastisement we deserve. Humility also means intentional dependence on God and obedience to His precepts and purposes for us. It is the heart condition necessary to pray and seek His face with a pure heart and the right motive. Prayer Points: Consider the contrast of heart conditions in Jeremiah 17:7–10 and ask the Lord to reveal any trace of pride, rebellion, and disobedience in your heart. Pray through John 16:8 for the Holy Spirit to visit His Church and our nation with conviction of sin. Pray in the spirit of James 4:6 for that conviction to bring us to humility before God and to the realization that we have offended Him, that we need Him, and that we must embrace and submit to His design for our lives. Pray that, according to 2 Corinthians 10:5, the barriers of pride and self-sufficiency and the false notions of success would be destroyed. 3. Prayerfulness A heart that is humble before God expresses itself to Him in prayer. Prayerlessness is one of the biggest diseases plaguing the Church today. Prayerless hearts beget prayerless homes, and prayerless homes produce prayerless churches. On the other hand, a prayerful heart is attuned to God and eager to commune with Him nonstop. God’s desire for us is simple: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18). Prayerfulness must be central in our lives and in His Church, and seeking the Lord in prayer is key to a nation that pledges to be “one nation under God.” After all, He created people for worship. He wants sinful people to return to worshipping Him, and He has made a way for them to do so. A prayerful heart desires to worship God and to commune with Him. Prayer Points: Pray through 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and Romans 8:26–27 for your own prayer life first — that the Holy Spirit would invigorate it and help you listen to what He wants you to pray. Pray through Colossians 4:2 for a new and deeper devotion to prayer in the Church that seeks and welcomes spiritual renewal and revival. Pray that this prayer movement will reflect Acts 1:14 and unite us with a shared desire to see God move in our midst. Pray through 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 and Philippians 4:6 for believers to desire and pursue a life of unceasing prayer rooted in worship and thanksgiving. Pray through Psalm 145:18 for prayer to return to public life in America in the conviction that it is God’s will for people to pray, and that He is near to all who call upon Him in truth. 4. Hunger for God A desire, hunger, or thirst for God leads to us seeking His face. And seeking God’s face implies two things: urgency and awe. When we seek, we leave no stone unturned to find what we desperately want. And what we want fills us with awe, because it is the face of God — the mightiest, most glorious, and holiest Being in the universe. God desires that we seek His face more than His hand. When we seek His hand, we are after what He can do for us. It’s like a friend you only hear from when he needs something. But when we seek God’s face, we make it clear that we want the delight of His presence. We want to know His character. We seek Him because we love Him for Who He is. As it turns out, when you seek only His hand, you miss out on His face. But when you seek first His face, you get His hand also. According to Acts 17:26-28, a desire for His presence and a delight in Who He is are conditions of heart that are precious to God. Prayer Points: Pray the Psalmist’s prayer in Psalm 119:36 that God would ignite a stronger hunger for Him. Pray through Revelation 2:4,5a that a hunger for God and a passion for His glory would return to the Church. Pray that, according to Jeremiah 24:7, the masses seeking reassurance and joy elsewhere will hunger for God and seek Him. Pray that, like the first New Testament revival in Acts 2:42–47, the expressions of hunger and thirst for the presence of God in these current student revivals will be lasting and contagious and lead people inside and outside the Church to seek His face. Pray for the Church to embody 2 Timothy 2:2, ready to help seekers find the face of God and come into a strong daily relationship with Him. 5. Repentance Humility, prayer, and seeking God lead to repentance: a deliberate 180-degree turn away from the life we were living and toward the life that God desires for us. Repentance is the precursor to salvation for an unbeliever. God forgives a repentant heart. Repentance leads to a more ardent pursuit of holiness within a believer. Repentance is a heart condition that motivates and empowers us to fight sin daily and to desire holiness as a way of life (see Philippians 2:13). Prayer Points: Do you desire holiness? Pray through 2 Corinthians 7:1 that God would shine His light on you and intensify your pursuit of holiness and purity. Pray in the words of Hebrews 12:14 for a renewed and sustained desire in the Church to pursue unity and holiness. Pray according to 2 Corinthians 7:10 for conviction of sin by the Holy Spirit to lead to genuine repentance. Pray for the Church to embrace Colossians 4:4–6 and Romans 6:11–12, boldly but lovingly speaking to unbelievers about sin and its consequences, and teaching people to reckon themselves dead to sin and alive to Christ. Pray through Philippians 2:15–16 for holiness in God’s people to attract unbelievers to Christ. 6. Joy Humility, prayer, seeking God, and repentance are the conditions God places on accepting prayer and bringing forgiveness and healing to hearts, lives, and lands. Revivals are often marked by intense grief over sin and guilt, followed by immense relief and joy at the assurance of forgiveness and restoration. God’s desire is for people to be brought into intimacy with Him so they can experience true joy, which comes from knowing Him (see Psalm 126:5). Prayer Points: Search your heart to see if you have lost faith in God’s promise of forgiveness and healing, and pray through Psalm 51:10–12 for that faith to be restored and strengthened. Pray for the realization in His people of Isaiah 51:10, that real joy for the redeemed comes from knowing and walking with Jesus. Pray for unbelievers’ hearts to be opened to God’s call in Isaiah 55:1–3 to find joy in knowing God, and to pursue that through humility, prayer, seeking His face, and earnest repentance. Pray according to Galatians 5:13–15 that joy will supplant judgment, criticism, and negativity in the Church. The Intercessors God Seeks Revival is welcomed into the Church and in the land by intercessors who are seized by the plain and often ugly facts behind our need for God. Our IFA headlines remind us daily of those plain facts. Intercessors, a travailing prayer for God to move in revival is not something we can manufacture. It is brought about in us by the Holy Spirit, Who prays in us and through us. We must be willing and available, we must face battles against the Enemy and our flesh, and we must seek God’s help to travail, persevere, and prevail in prayer. Seek Him today and ask Him if He is calling you to continue in urgent and desperate prayer until revival sweeps our land. Will you fan the flames of revival? Pray with me: Father, we come to You today, partnering with and agreeing with IFA and millions of people throughout the world for Your present help in a time of trouble. We are, as the teaching states, desperate for this help. We humble ourselves before You, asking for Your grace, cleansing, and healing. We do repent for the prayerlessness of the church, but we are also grateful for the millions of people around the world who are praying. A great symphony of prayer goes up daily around the world, moving Your heart and releasing Your power. Angels are being sent to work with the church and breakthroughs have and will continue to occur. We continue to cry out: Send revival!!! We know we are asking these things, not just for ourselves, but for You; You desire to do them, but have determined to work through humans on earth. When we partner with You, asking in faith according to Your will, You hear and answer those prayers. We do so today in Jesus’ name: send revival to the earth! Our decree: We decree that a willing church is rising up to partner with God on the earth. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Today’s post was taken from Intercessors For America (IFApray.org) and used with permission.

Get Back Up! I was riding high, literally. Around 200 feet high, as a matter of fact, parasailing in Acapulco. It was in the early 1980’s, back when I had more guts than brains. Ceci and I were on the last day of a short vacation in this tourist hot spot. I had been watching others parasail the entire time we were there, seeing boats pull individuals from off the beach, high into the air, and across the beautiful water. Airborne adrenaline junkies would soar effortlessly for 10 minutes, enjoying their freedom from the bonds of the earth. Then, amazingly, the boat would make a quick turn and the “skyrider” would be whipped back over the beach. To the amazement and cheers of us less-adventurous spectators, they would land softly on the sand…and accept everyone’s applause. They didn't even get their feet wet! Incredible. As a young man I had often wanted to parachute. Actually, I had wondered what it would be like, is closer to the truth. But I was smart enough not to try it before getting married. Ceci then asked me not to, which became my face-saving excuse not to jump out of an airplane. Maybe parasailing would satisfy my curiosity, I thought as I watched. Logic prevailed, however, and I decided I wasn’t quite THAT curious. Then Ceci spoke up. “That looks pretty awesome.” As you may know, young males have an overwhelming need to impress the ladies in their lives, demonstrating fearlessness and their ability to rise above any challenge. “Aw, it doesn’t look that difficult,” I replied in my best matter-of-fact, any-guy-could-do-it tone. “Nothing to it, really. All you do is get a running start on the beach and the boat does the rest. I’d do it, but you probably wouldn’t want me to. Besides, it’s not worth the money.” To my absolute horror, she responded excitedly, “Oh, I wouldn't mind. In fact, I’d love to see you do it; and it’s not really that expensive. Give it a try!” “Oh, my God,” I cried in my mind, “get me out of this!!!” “Get yourself out of it,” I heard inwardly, “you got yourself into it.” Thinking quickly, I said, “Oh, I know you’re just saying that for me, dear. I realize you would be terrified if I did it, but thanks for thinking of me. I won’t put you through the stress.” "No, really, I want you to. It would make a great picture and, besides, what could go wrong? Go for it!” I felt trapped. Foolishly, I replied, “Yeah, what could go wrong? Okay.” There are times in a man’s life when the thing to do is fake an injury, come up with an unexplainable headache, or maybe even - God forbid - humble himself, admit he’s an egotistical male and repent. But I decided to save face, and prove my manhood. Now, with God’s sense of justice and humor, do you really think He was going to allow that?! As I stated, this was the final day of our stay. Actually, it was the last morning. We had checked out of our room and would be leaving for the airport in an hour or so. Therefore, I was not wearing my swimming trunks, but was dressed in travel clothes, right down to my watch. I mentioned this to Ceci in one final attempt at escape. “It’ll be fine,” she stated. “After all, you don’t even touch the water.” I should have known this experience didn't always go as planned when they made me sign that release form! I was the first customer of the day. Takeoff was fairly routine and within seconds I was 200 feet high, enjoying a bird’s eye view of the water and beach. Being the first patron of the day, they began by pulling me along the shore, only 50 or so yards out, using me as advertisement. And I was actually enjoying it! This really was easy, a real high (pun intended). People along the beach were waving at me, cheering me on. I was the center of attention; Ceci was so proud. I, of course, waved back in a not-too-demonstrative, this-is no-big-deal sort of way. Just being my cool self. Then… You knew it was coming. Why else would I tell this story? Suddenly, I had the strange sensation that the water was coming closer. A second later I KNEW it was getting closer. Another second and I hit the water with a huge splash, tangled in ropes and a parasail! It’s a dream, a BAD dream. This is impossible, I thought. Realizing that I had never tasted salt water in a dream, the revelation that it wasn’t a dream and was very possible came quickly. I swam to the boat, which had experienced engine failure, and was pulled aboard. Now I truly was cool - wet and cold. (Actually, the water right around me was warm for just a few seconds. Not sure why.) The driver of the boat finally got it restarted and we drove back to the launch point. Of course, the boat couldn’t get all the way onto the beach, so I jumped out, did my best “it’s no big deal, in fact, it was kinda fun” swagger, as I waded back onto the beach. Then I shouted, “That was awesome!” It worked - everyone was fooled, even Ceci. To this day I don’t think she knows the anger, embarrassment, and humiliation I actually felt. Guys can hide this stuff. I changed clothes in the men’s room, headed to the airport, and flew home with another made memory. Believe it or not, I began one of the chapters in my book, Intercessory Prayer, with this story. “A spoonful of sugar…” as they say. Rough Landings Today, I’m using it simply to bring some laughter and state the obvious: things don’t always end up as we planned. Engines fail, the landing isn’t always as expected, and yes, we get wet. When this occurs, we must get back in the boat - like even the great apostle, Peter, had to do - and determine not to give up. Faith does not equate to a life without failures, but to a life that grabs the Master’s hand, gets back in the boat, changes clothes, and keeps moving forward. You won’t win every battle, but if you get up, learn from the setback and keep moving forward, you will win the war. Press on, my friend. Press on. Pray with me: Father, we pray today for those who have experienced hard landings. Some even now are struggling to get up. Put the right person or people in their path to help them up. Bring the right understanding to motivate and guide them onward. Encourage them. For those who may be wavering in their faith, resurrect hope, restore that faith, and reawaken a dreaming heart. And as we watch this sick world wander around in the darkness, when it looks like evil is winning and justice is losing, remind them of Your power and promises. Remind them of Christ’s victory, and of His willingness to save and heal this sick world. Remind them of past revivals and awakenings. Pick them up and urge them forward. We declare today that we ARE overcomers. We ARE more than conquerors through our Savior who loves us. The Greater One DOES live within us. The former and latter rains ARE coming, bringing a harvest of such magnitude that the plowman WILL overtake the reaper. And yes, America SHALL be saved! We ask and decree this in the name of He who still walks on water. Amen. Our decree: We decree that at the Master’s instruction, we WILL get out of the boat. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Portions of today’s post were taken from my book, Intercessory Prayer.

Don't Underestimate Its Importance As a follower of Christ, my allegiance is to Him and His Kingdom above all else. I am also, however, a patriotic American, devoted to this nation which He raised up to trumpet the gospel (“good news”) to all the world. That He did so is both historically accurate and a sacred trust. John Quincy Adams, the sixth U.S. President and son of John and Abigail Adams, said, “The highest glory of the American Revolution was this–it connected, in one indissoluble bond, the principles of civil government with the precepts of Christianity.”(1) In 1837, at the age of 69, in delivering a Fourth of July speech at Newburyport, Massachusetts, Adams said: “Why is it that, next to the birthday of the Savior of the world, your most joyous and most venerated festival returns on this day (the Fourth of July)? Is it not that, in the chain of human events, the birthday of the nation is indissolubly linked with the birthday of the Savior? That it forms a leading event in the progress of the Gospel dispensation? Is it not that the Declaration of Independence first organized the social compact on the foundation of the Redeemer’s mission upon earth? That it laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity?”(2) Do not accept anyone’s revision of America’s history; do not be moved by ridiculous accusations against patriotism and love of country; and do not accept the heretical and ludicrous arguments that God would never raise up a nation for the primary purpose of trumpeting the gospel. Today is Flag Day in the United States, celebrated on June 14th each year to commemorate the adoption of the American flag. Our flag holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans as a symbol of freedom, democracy, and unity. Today provides an opportunity for Americans to boldly display their patriotism. The flag has played a significant role throughout American history, flying proudly during times of war, strife, and triumph. It is a symbol that unites Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs, representing the shared ideals and aspirations of the nation. The Stars and Stripes remind us of the values and principles the nation was founded upon, including liberty, justice, and equality for all. The origins of Flag Day can be traced back to the late 19th century when a schoolteacher named Bernard J. Cigrand first proposed the idea of celebrating the flag’s adoption. He organized the first formal observance of Flag Day in 1885 at Stony Hill School in Wisconsin, where students celebrated the flag’s birthday with patriotic activities and ceremonies. Over the years, the observance of Flag Day gained popularity, and in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson officially proclaimed June 14th as Flag Day.(3) On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes as the official flag of the United States. Its design consisted of thirteen alternating red and white stripes representing the original thirteen colonies, along with a blue field in the upper left corner containing thirteen white stars arranged in a circle to symbolize a new constellation.(4) On Flag Day, Americans across the country celebrate by displaying the flag at homes, schools, government buildings, and businesses. Many communities hold parades, ceremonies, and other events to honor the flag and show their patriotism. It is a day for Americans to reflect on the history and symbolism of the American flag and remember the sacrifices made by those who have defended it. For many of us, it is also a day to recommit to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. Today, recite the Pledge of Allegiance, given below; I have. And I invite you to watch the moving video of Johnny Cash sharing the Ragged Old Flag. Fox presented this video ahead of Superbowl LVII; a Tribute to America. You can click on this link. Pray with me: Father, today we recommit to Your great cause of creating a family for Yourself. We know this is why humans were created. As many of us sang in Sunday School, “Red, yellow, black and white, they are precious in [Your] sight.” All people in the world are loved equally by You. In the context of this great cause, I, as an American, recommit myself to the primary purpose for which You formed this nation. Restore us fully to this destiny. May the emerging revival create the greatest passion ever possessed in America to sound forth Your good news! May this cause become a holy obsession, a consuming passion, the zeal of Yeshua Himself! Let nothing stop this! Amen. Our decree: The gospel will go forth from these shores, not only to this land, but to all the nations of the earth. (stated by Robert Hunt at Cape Henry, 1607) The Pledge of Allegiance “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Take some time a watch that video right now. The Ragged Old Flag by Johnny Cash. Click on the link below to watch the full video. __________________________________ https://www.times-news.com/writer-got-it-right-with-adams-quote/article_46463f6f-c125-5b76-aed3-f1ca033b71e7.html Ibid. https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/a-brief-history-of-flag-day?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwsaqzBhDdARIsAK2gqnfJb7jmCucSn80OTKjp6731UsbiL8yr8h79N657BUhd5p4YqNWC704aAmFhEALw_wcB Ibid.

Blockades and Sieges Yesterday, I gave an overview of the watchman concept of intercessory prayer. In doing so, I shared where the concept began in Scripture, three different Hebrew words that are used to reference watchmen, and several definitions of these words. There is another facet to this type of prayer, however, that I now want us to consider. In 1988, I had the thought, which I knew was from Holy Spirit, “Study the watchman concept.” I already know about watchmen, was my immediate thought. I had studied the subject, taught on it, and was very familiar with the concept. Yet, I had the immediate and strong impression that I was missing something. There was more. I obeyed Holy Spirit’s prompting and, indeed, there was more to the subject than I had seen. I discovered that the watchman concept is not just defensive, protective prayer; there is also an offensive or aggressive aspect to it. I found that the Hebrew words for watchmen are also translated “to lay siege,”(1) “spy,”(2) and “ambush”(3 ), in order to conquer cities or people (see Judges 1:24; 2 Samuel 11:16; Isaiah 1:8; Jeremiah 4:17; Psalm 56:6; 71:10). The reason these words are used in this manner is because all of the actions involve watching. When I saw this, I heard Holy Spirit say the following: “I am about to release revelation to the praying church that will enable them to deliver individuals, cities, regions, and nations for Me. New strategies and concepts will emerge, discernment of satan's strongholds will be given, and sieges will begin that will eventually break his hold over people and places. “This will be a broad work, with strategies and actions coming from many different ministries. I will give part of a plan to one person or ministry, while simultaneously imparting another part to others. At times, they will not even realize they’re part of a larger scheme. But I will orchestrate the efforts in order to lay sieges in the spirit realm, cutting off satan's ‘supply lines’ - iniquities that give him access; I’ll close his entry points and remove that which has enabled him to hold places in captivity. Through the watchman anointing, My intercessors will discern from Me and lay a prayer siege to cities and nations.” In 1988 there was very little known and spoken of regarding prayer walking, prayer journeys, spiritual mapping, identificational repentance, reconciliation ceremonies between races and people groups, territorial spirits, etc. I am sure understanding of them existed in a few people’s thinking, but most of the body of Christ had never heard of them. And I am relatively certain that some of these concepts did not exist at all. At the time, I knew of only a couple of ministries that existed primarily for prayer purposes, and it was hard to find books and teachings on intercession. Since then, however, literally millions of believers around the world have come to understand and embrace these and other aspects of prayer, learning to pray more effectively. The learning curve in the recent prayer movement has shot up exponentially. Dozens of prayer ministries have been launched, thousands of prayer groups have formed, and millions of believers are praying effectively. Dr. C. Peter Wagner, one of the leaders and fathers of this movement in the 1990’s and early 2000’s, once happily stated, “The prayer movement around the world is out of control.” Certainly, we have not yet “arrived” in our understanding of prayer - there is more to learn - but we are moving forward at a rapid pace. And the understanding we have gained, generating all of this activity is part of the watchman anointing God released to the church at the end of the 1980s. Currently, one of our great challenges is remaining cognizant of the fact that prayer sieges for cities and nations can take years, even decades, to accomplish their purposes. Perseverance is required. We must remember that the prayers released are being used to dismantle centuries-old, sometimes millennia-old strongholds of darkness. Also millions of hearts and minds - traditions, cultural paradigms, religious beliefs, including doctrines in the church - must be changed. Revivals and outpourings do not occur simply because God “finally decides” to send them; they occur when the actions of people and conditions in a region allow it. And those conditions are created through prayer. God waited for the “fullness of time” to send Jesus. (Galatians 4:4) I am sharing this teaching to encourage believers here and around the world that your prayers are accomplishing much. They are absolutely shaping history. Blockades (another meaning of natsar, one of the Hebrew words for watchman) have now been placed in the spiritual realm against satan’s activities. Sieges are in place and accomplishing their purposes. Even the coming shaking, the discipline that will be a part of America’s salvation, has been generated through our prayers. This is all working together to produce history’s greatest harvest. DO NOT STOP! Pray with me: Father, millions of people around the world are praying, asking You for an outpouring of Holy Spirit that will save a billion or more people. Thank You for orchestrating this amazing growth and revelation. We are asking You today to encourage and strengthen this great army. Some are in difficult places and circumstances; many are persecuted for their faith. Give them tenacious hearts that refuse to quit until they see the fruit they desire. May they have a deep assurance from You that their prayers will produce eternal life for many, many people. We also ask You to increase the understanding of believers around the world to even greater levels. We want to be the “people who are willing in the day of Your power” (Psalm 110). Enable us to pray more effectively, to operate in Christ’s authority at higher levels, and release Holy Spirit’s power with greater force. Give us even wiser, more effective strategies for our regions and nations. May the prayer sieges become even more powerful, shutting off every supply line of satan’s kingdom. Jesus, Lord of the harvest, Builder of the overcoming church, King over the nations, accomplish Your great plan. The Father “so loved the world” that He sent You; You so loved the world that You came. Now, in Your great love, pour out the former and latter rains simultaneously! Reap! Gather! Save! We ask all this in Your great name, Yeshua. Our decree: We decree that heaven’s blockade is in place, and satan’s supply lines in regions and nations are being cut off. His rule over them is ending. Today’s post was taken in part from my books Watchman Prayer and Intercessory Prayer. Click on the link below to watch the full video. Spiros Zodhiates, Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible - New Amerian Standard, rev. ed. (Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 1990), p. 1752. James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990) ref. no.  6822. Zodhiates, Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, p. 1787.

God’s Secret Service Agents “Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1Peter 5:8 NASB) “With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all perseverance and every request for all the saints.” (Ephesians 6:18 NASB) The King James Version uses the word “watching” instead of the phrase “be alert” in Ephesians 6:18. Both translations are good. We are called to be alert in prayer, watching for our family, friends, leaders, cities, and nations. Today and tomorrow, I want to talk about the concept of intercessory watchmen, with tomorrow’s post being a unique aspect of this important subject. If ever there was a time when this understanding was necessary, today is one of them. In Scripture, the term “watchmen” comes from the Old Testament and describes what we would today call “sentries,” “guards,” or “lookouts.” These individuals were responsible for protecting vineyards or fields (crops) from thieves and animals, and cities from invading forces. Those watching crops were stationed on rocks, buildings, or towers to provide a better range of vision. Towers or outposts in the fields usually had sleeping quarters because it was necessary to keep watch day and night during harvest. The watchmen would take shifts - one working, one sleeping - and thereby watch 24 hours a day. Watchmen were also posted on the city walls where they functioned as sentries. From the walls, they watched for two things: messengers and enemies. They watched for messengers in order to inform the gatekeepers when to open the city gates, and more importantly, when not to. In those days, “runners” were used to carry messages from city to city, and when a known messenger was approaching, the watchmen would alert the gatekeepers that it was safe to open the gate. The watchmen on the city walls also looked for enemy soldiers. When they saw potential danger, they sounded an alarm, either by a shout or a trumpet blast. Soldiers could then prepare themselves for battle and defend the city: “For thus the Lord says to me, ‘Go, station the lookout, let him report what he sees. When he sees riders, horsemen in pairs, a train of donkeys, a train of camels, let him pay close attention, very close attention.’ Then the lookout called, ‘O Lord, I stand continually by day on the watchtower, and I am stationed every night at my guard post.’” (Isaiah 21:6-8) Three Hebrew words are translated as “watchman” in Scripture: natsar,(1) shamar,(2) and tsaphah.(3) In a broad sense, they all mean to guard or protect by watching over. They can also have the connotation of hiding or concealing something. Watchmen hide people in the secret place of the Most High through their prayers (see Psalm 91). Another interesting meaning of tsaphah is “to lean forward and peer into the distance.” The connection to prayer should be obvious. The watchman looks ahead, into the future – “peering into the distance” – to foresee the attacks of the enemy. He or she is proactive, not reactive. This is prophetic intercession. The Law of First Mention The first mention of one of these words in Scripture is in Genesis 2:15: “Then the LORD God took the man and put him into the garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it.” Theologians have what is known as “the law of first mention.” This refers to the general rule that the first time a major subject is mentioned in the Bible, it is “introduced”; significant facts are given concerning it, just as we might do when introducing a person. For example, the first mention of the serpent, satan, is in Genesis 3:1: “Now the serpent was more crafty than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, ‘Indeed, has God said, "You shall not eat from any tree of the garden”?’” It is easy to see this law at work here, as the verse speaks of satan’s subtlety or craftiness. When God introduces satan, He informs us of one of the most important things we must remember about him: He is far more dangerous to us as the crafty serpent than as a roaring lion. The first mention of a watchman in Scripture was Adam in Genesis 2:15, and introduces us to one of our primary responsibilities as watchmen: Keep the serpent out of our “gardens”! Guard or protect from the subtle attacks of the serpent that which God has entrusted to our care. Keep him out of your garden: your home, family, church, city, nation! KEEP HIM OUT! Expanded Meanings Here are several ways these 3 words for watchman are used in Scripture. These uses will help expand our understanding of what it means to be watchmen: Keep/Keeper - This is by far the most frequent usage of these words— at least 250 times. Watchmen keep things, places, and individuals safe, ensuring against loss, theft, or damage. They keep things intact and in possession. Guard/Bodyguard - Watchmen shield or guard individuals and places, protecting them from danger and harm. They are the secret service agents of the Kingdom. Doorkeeper/Gatekeeper - Watchmen have the ability, through prayer, to determine who or what comes into their homes, families, churches, cities, etc. As sentries, they discern by the Spirit what to allow in and, through prayer, open and close the doors (Isaiah 22:22). They pray IN the work of Holy Spirit and REJECT the works of darkness, keeping the serpent out. Preserve/Preserver - Watchmen preserve, keeping things from ruin and destruction. They preserve lives, anointings, moves of God, and a host of other things by covering them in prayer. Pay Attention - Watchmen must be alert and always paying attention. In Scripture, we are compared to soldiers; as good sentries, God tells us to “pay attention!" Observe/Behold - Don't just look - see! Discern. Be observant. Watchmen observe what others fail to see. We can observe much in the place of prayer, often even before it happens! Beware - Watchmen must be vigilant, aware, and on the alert. First Peter 5:8 warns us to be of sober spirit, watching for the devouring lion. When we see him at work, we must enforce Calvary’s victory - stop him! Jesus saw satan’s attack coming against Peter and prayed that his faith would survive the test. The prayer was effective! (Luke 22:31-32). Protect - In the same sense as guarding and keeping, watchmen protect, building walls or boundaries of protection from the attacks of the devil. Maintain - Watchmen maintain things for the Lord and for people. They are the maintenance crew. Though often not those who set vision, build ministries, or oversee congregations, intercessors maintain them, keeping things working well and preventing breakdowns. Watchmen help maintain the anointing, unity, health, purity, truth, and many other important things in the church. Ask Holy Spirit to sharpen your skills as watchmen, and to increase your anointings in this important activity. He will do so. Tomorrow, we will look at another little-known and very important aspect of this type of prayer. Pray with me: Father, we are painfully aware that the devourer was allowed great access to America. The church was not alert, was ignorant of the power and principles of prayer, and did not function as the gatekeepers of our nation. The result has been that he who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy has been doing so almost at will. He has devoured families, elements of our government, our schools, and even many of our churches. We ask for Your forgiveness, cleansing, and supernatural ability to reverse this. Increase revelation in the body of Christ regarding this amazing force we call prayer. Awaken believers to the fact that we are literally partners with You, authorized to teach Your Kingdom principles, release Your power, and extend Your mercy. And increase our understanding of watchmen intercession, revealing what it means to be shields, sentries, gatekeepers, preservers and maintainers. We take up this mantle now and cover our families, homes, possessions, leaders, cities, and nations. We ask for supernatural protection over the minds and bodies of our children. We ask for protection over our leaders and their families. And we ask for protection over our nation - except You keep the city the watchman wakes in vain. (Psalm 127:1) Our decree: We decree with the Psalmist, David: the Lord is our light and salvation; we will fear no evil! (see Psalms 23 and 27) Today’s post was taken from my book Intercessory Prayer. Click on the link below to watch the full video. James Strong, The New Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1990), ref. no. 5341. Ibid., ref. no. 8104. Ibid., ref. no. 6822.