The Holy Spirit gives Boldness in Prayer

  The Holy Spirit gives Boldness

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"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." — 2 Timothy 1:7

When we pray in the Spirit, we do not pray from a place of fear or uncertainty. Instead, we pray with confidence, knowing that God hears us and responds according to His perfect will. The Holy Spirit emboldens us, transforming our weaknesses into strength and our doubts into unwavering faith. He assures us of God’s faithfulness—who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all we could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Through the Holy Spirit, we gain deeper revelation, understanding the mysteries of our relationship with God, our Father. His presence in our prayer and worship affirms our divine fellowship with Him. Prayer is not merely about presenting our needs but about communion with God—being in His presence.

There is profound joy in being with God, speaking to Him as a child confides in a loving father. The Holy Spirit elevates our prayers, bringing us into a deeper realm of divine intimacy where we are united with Him. This revelation revitalizes our spirit, filling us with the assurance that God hears us and will answer according to His will.

"Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him." — 1 John 5:14-15

The disciples understood the power of the Holy Spirit to give boldness. When they were threatened by religious authorities and commanded not to preach in the name of Christ, they turned to God in prayer. Only the presence of the Holy Spirit can equip believers to stand firm against the oppressive forces that seek to silence the truth. These powers of darkness operate in both secular and religious spaces, going to great lengths to suppress the voice of those who challenge their hidden agenda. However, with the Holy Spirit on our side, we are emboldened to stand, speak, and act for God’s kingdom, even in the face of intense opposition.

Let us seek more of the Holy Spirit—for courage, boldness, and endurance to resist the intimidation of the enemy and to proclaim God's truth without fear.

Scripture Readings

• Joshua 1:1-9
• Jeremiah 1:1-19
• Acts 4:1-31

Prayer

Lord of power and strength, embolden my heart for Your will and glory. Grant me the courage to pray with boldness and to proclaim Your truth to the world, no matter the opposition or threat from the enemy. Strengthen my weak and fearful heart so that I may stand firm in Your presence all the days of my life. This I ask in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

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When Confronted with Fearsome and Intimidating Opposition 

I do not know what is Threatening your peace, your faith, your health,  your destiny and life as a whole. This word is for you.

Imagine you're standing in the midst of a raging storm, the wind howling and forces unseen pressing against you, trying to shake your resolve. Yet, within you burns a steady, unshakable flame—a divine presence, the Holy Spirit, filling you with supernatural confidence.

Yes, you feel the weight of opposition, the voices of doubt, the threats that seek to silence your faith. But instead of fear, you sense a power rising within you—calm, yet unrelenting. The Holy Spirit wraps around you like an unbreakable shield, His presence like a mighty wind pushing back the darkness.

You remember the apostles who stood before rulers and authorities, threatened for speaking the truth of Christ. They did not waver. They did not run. Instead, they prayed, and the place where they stood was shaken by the power of God (Acts 4:31). That same Spirit now strengthens your heart, planting your feet firmly in faith.

With each breath, boldness grows. Your words carry divine authority. Your prayers become declarations of truth. The enemy may rage, but he cannot break you—because the Spirit of the Living God is within you. You stand, not in your own strength, but in His, unyielding and victorious.

Why are you scared when the Holy Spirit is here. Pray and He will strengthen You. Arise, face your fears, do the impossible.  No retreat, no surrendering to the intimidation of the enemy.  He who is with you is greater than He who is with them. Switch the battle to the Spirit’s realm, let Him take over. Stand on your feet, pray right now, pray in tongues, pray in the Holy Ghost.  Victory is assured in Him.

Blessedness 🙏

 

The Holy Spirit: Our Guide in Prayer

 The Holy Spirit: Our Guide in Prayer

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God... The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God." — Romans 8:14,16

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As we continue from where we left off yesterday, we reflect on the essential role of the Holy Spirit in our prayer life. He is our divine guide, leading us in when, where, and what to pray. He teaches us how to pray, what to ask for, and even when to remain silent in His presence. Often, we come before God burdened with needs, fears, and uncertainties, yet the Spirit directs our prayers so they align with God's perfect will.

From the very beginning, the devil has sought to exploit any gap in our communion with God. In the Garden of Eden, he subtly twisted God's words, leading Adam and Eve into deception. Their fall was not just due to disobedience but also a lack of wisdom and discernment—gifts that only God provides through His Spirit. Even today, our prayers can be tainted by the same futility. Many spend time striving, fasting, and making sacrifices, but for the wrong reasons—pursuing earthly things rather than seeking the Kingdom and His righteousness, forgetting that the rest will be added in due time.

Without the Holy Spirit, prayer can feel like a monologue—empty words spoken without truly sensing God's presence. It can become self-centered, driven by personal desires rather than divine purpose. But with the Spirit, prayer transforms into a dialogue, an intimate exchange between us and our Heavenly Father. It becomes more than just requests; it becomes a relationship—a selfless fellowship with God and with one another. In His presence, we are refreshed, renewed, and led into the depths of true intercession.

The Holy Spirit strengthens us in moments of fear, doubt, and despair. He brings clarity and direction, guiding us through the delicate path of waiting. Without Him, we may not even know what to pray for or how to pray. But when He dwells in us, He intercedes on our behalf, aligning our prayers with God's will and ensuring that we receive the answers in due time.

Scripture Readings: Romans 8:19-27; Proverbs 3:4-7; John 16:7-14.

Prayer:

Come, Holy Spirit, be my guide and lead me in my journey of faith. I acknowledge that without You, I am nothing. Order my steps, direct my path, and take control of my prayers and fellowship with You. Carry me when I feel like giving up, hold me when I feel weak, and speak for me when I lack the right words. Fill me with divine utterance, that I may glorify You in all I do. Thank You for all You have done in me, through me, and for me. May I remain a vessel of Your glory.

I pray this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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Picture the Holy Spirit as a Guide 

Imagine walking through a vast, unfamiliar land, filled with winding paths, towering mountains, and deep valleys. Some routes seem easy but lead to dead ends, while others look treacherous yet hold the promise of life. In this journey, you are not alone. A gentle yet powerful presence walks beside you—the Holy Spirit, your divine guide.

He does not force the way but leads with wisdom and patience, pointing you toward the right path. At times, He whispers direction when you stand at a crossroads, nudging you forward with quiet assurance. Other times, when the road is rough and your strength fails, He lifts you up, carrying you through the storm.

Like a torch in the darkness, He illuminates hidden dangers, revealing truth where deception lurks. When confusion clouds your mind, He speaks clarity. When fear grips your heart, He breathes courage. When you are weary, He refreshes your soul with living water.

In prayer, the Holy Spirit is the voice that aligns your words with the will of the Father. He refines your desires, turns your cries into intercession, and deepens your communion with God. Without Him, prayer is like wandering without direction. But with Him, every step leads closer to the heart of God, where peace, wisdom, and strength abound.

Trust in the Holy Spirit—your guide, your comforter, your ever-present help in this sacred journey of faith.

Stay blessed!

Being Led by the Holy Spirit

 Be Led by the Holy Spirit

"Likewise, the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." — Romans 8:26

Prayer is a spiritual exercise, and we cannot truly engage in it without the help of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit enables us to pray according to God’s will, even when we are unsure of what to say. Though prayer involves our physical participation, it is ultimately the Spirit who overcomes the limitations of our flesh, guiding us into alignment with God's heart and will.

"But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you." — Romans 8:11

When we recognize this truth, we understand how utterly dependent we are on the Holy Spirit. How can we speak to a Spirit if we do not think and understand like one? God is Spirit, and those who worship or pray to Him must do so in spirit and in truth.

"But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." — John 4:23-24

The role of the Holy Spirit in our prayer life is indispensable. He gives us confidence to approach God’s throne, replacing fear with divine boldness. He teaches us how to pray and reveals the deeper requirements of effective prayer. Through the Spirit, we are empowered to pray fervently, with understanding and faith.

"For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God... The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God." — Romans 8:14,16

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." — 2 Timothy 1:7

Scripture Readings:

Psalm 24; 

Romans 8:1-13, 18-27; 

John 4:19-24; 

2 Timothy 1:3-10

Prayer

Lord Jesus, I am weak and limited by my shortcomings. Help me, through Your Holy Spirit, to pray as I ought. Fill me afresh with Your Spirit so that I may walk in faith, grow in wisdom, and fulfill Your purpose for my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Pray with Faith and Surrender

Pray with Faith and Surrender

"Yet not my will, but yours be done." (Luke 22:42)

Jesus gave us the ultimate example of praying according to God’s will in Gethsemane.

True faith trusts that God’s plan is best, even when we don’t understand it. In His humanity, Christ experienced deep anguish as He faced the suffering ahead. His flesh longed for a more favorable alternative, yet He surrendered completely to the Father’s will. Though He expressed His desire for the cup to pass, He chose obedience, confessing in faith and trust in God’s perfect plan.

Jesus is our greatest example, and we are called to follow Him in all things. He was tempted just as we are, yet He never sinned. He walked by faith and taught us to do the same. When we come to God in prayer, we must believe that He is more than capable of fulfilling His promises.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord." (James 1:5-7)

The key to effective prayer is faith. When we ask, we must believe that God will answer. Doubt limits God’s power in our lives, while faith moves mountains. As believers, we must trust Him completely, knowing that He hears and answers according to His perfect will.

At the same time, we must humbly surrender our will to His. Faith is not about commanding God to fulfill our desires but about submitting ourselves to His greater purpose. Just as Jesus surrendered in Gethsemane, we must trust that His ways are higher than ours. True faith often requires us to obey even when it seems unreasonable—like Peter stepping out onto the water. A person of faith follows God without hesitation, believing that He knows best.

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55:8-11)

Scripture Readings:

Isaiah 55:1-13

Matt. 14:25-32

Luke 22:40-53

James 1:1-11

Prayer

Gracious Lord, I thank You for Your submission to the Father’s will, through which our salvation was perfected. Help me, by Your Holy Spirit, to surrender my desires completely to Your plans for my life and destiny. Strengthen my faith to trust You wholeheartedly and to walk in obedience, even when I do not understand.

I pray In Jesus Christ’s name, Amen.

Trust in God’s Timing

Trust in God’s Timing

"Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord." — Psalm 27:14

One important aspect of prayer that we must understand is God’s timing. You may pray earnestly, in alignment with His will and purpose for your life, yet not see immediate answers. This does not mean the answer will not come—it may simply be a matter of timing. God, in His infinite wisdom, knows the perfect moment for His plans to unfold. Waiting is often part of the process. As the saying goes, God’s time is the best time —and we must learn to trust and wait. This period of waiting is where our patience and faith in God are tested.

> "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." — Ecclesiastes 3:1

Our God is a God of order and purpose. He never acts by accident or in haste. He has a divine plan for each of us and knows precisely when to bring it to fulfillment. Even before we ask, He is aware of our needs. Yet, our prayers serve to align us with His timing, hasten His plans when necessary, and remind us of His promises—especially when we feel like our answers are delayed.

At this point, some may ask: If God already knows our needs and will fulfill them in His time, why do we need to pray? To answer this, let’s consider the story of Daniel. His prayer was answered on the very first day, yet he had to wait twenty-one days to receive the message. Why? Because territorial forces resisted the divine messenger bringing his answer. It was Daniel’s persistence in prayer that led to divine intervention—God sent a mighty angel to battle the Prince of Persia, removing the obstacle that caused the delay (Daniel 10:12-13).

This teaches us an important lesson: prayer is not just about making requests but about persistence, faith, and spiritual warfare. Answers may come in different ways:

1. An immediate "Yes" – Sometimes, God grants instant answers.

2. A clear "No" – God, in His wisdom, may deny a request because it does not align with His will for us. (Sure! He will do something better at its time)

3. A call to wait – Sometimes, God's silence or a divine instruction to wait is part of the answer.

Whichever response God gives, we must learn to trust Him completely. His plans are always for our good, pleasing and perfect (Jer. 29:11, Rom. 12:2). He makes everything beautiful in its time (Ecc. 3:11).

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Scripture Readings:

Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

Daniel 10:1-15

Psalm 27

Matthew 7:7-12

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Prayer:

O Lord my God, help me to trust in Your perfect timing. I believe You make all things beautiful in there season. Even when I do not see immediate answers, I know You are working behind the scenes for my good. I surrender my will to Yours and choose to wait on You with patience and faith. Strengthen my heart so that I do not grow weary in prayer, but remain steadfast until the very end. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord. Amen.

Pray with the right Motive

 Pray with the Right Motives

"When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures." (James 4:3)

The issue of our hearts and intentions has to be dealt with and made sure it rightly align with divine purpose for us to pray and get the attention of heavens. God examines the heart of man whenever we call to Him in prayers and not just the physical gymnastics done for humans' applause. Prayers driven by selfish desires may not align with God's will. Many get involve in prayers and fasting for self glorification that they may boast of it among brethren and friends that they prayed for hours and fasted for days. 

For instance, a brother embarked on a long hours of fasting till about 11pm all because his roommate shared with him that he fasted till up to 9pm before eating. He went 2 hours extra to proof to the other party that he could do more. The intention of his fasting was not to pray specifically for anything but to prove a point. Why do we Pray and get nothing? Why do we ask and do not receive?  Why do we pray for miracles, signs and wonders and yet nothing happened? It's because we ask with the wrong motives. We ask for selfish purposes. We ask so as to be seen and be applauded by men. God is always willing and ready to work among His people but our misplaced motives, strives and competitions are reasons He seems far away. 

 "LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart" Ps.15.1-2

The power of God was with the Prophets of old because all their concerns were for the glory of God. Their motives were not about money or gains. Gehasi lost his place in the history of the Prophets when he missed the essence of his ministry.  He went after Namaan's gifts rather than seek the Giver of grace and power for exploits. Gehasi got leprosy in return. Unlike his master Elisha, who understood the mission and went after the double portions of power of Elijah and that was granted unto him.  In like manner, Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, followed Jesus but love the monetary gains, his place among the Apostles was given to another. What is your purpose as a believer. Why do you pray, and why do you call upon God. For personal aggrandizement or that the Lord’s name may be glorified? Check your motives! That's all that matters to God.

Readings: 2 Kgs 2:1-15; 5:14-27; Psalm 15; Acts 8:14-24; James 4:1-10.

Prayers:

Oh Lord my Redeemer. purify my heart and help me to access your throne always in Spirit and with the right motives. Help us to pray and worship in Your presence in Truth and with pure conscience. This I ask in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen. 

Praying According to His Will

 Praying According to His Will

 - Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 1John.5.14

 There is a God's standard and desire for every one of us. Before the creation of the world He knew about our existence and while we were being born He already had planned purpose and will with which we should align our lives and desires. If we want Him to answer our prayers, it is necessary for us to learn to pray according to His will. And in this context, our first challenge is knowing His will for our lives and then pattern our prayers and request in that form and direction.

Praying according to God’s will means aligning our desires and requests with His purpose and plan. The Bible gives us guidance on how to do this. God’s will is revealed in His Word. When we pray according to the word of God, we can be confident that we are asking for things that align with His character and purpose. The word of God is always available and it is the express exposition of God's will and desire for us. Therefore, to pray according to God's will, we must first be committed to His Word.  Knowing the scriptures will help us a lot in praying aright. The word of God is the will of God.  

- You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. John.5.39 

The scriptures reveals everything necessary about Christ and His will for us. Our sanctification, the need to obey His commands, to love one another, the pattern and prototype we should follow while praying, the need for consistency and perseverance in the place of prayer until we get an answer which is primarily according to His best judgement and understanding of what is best for us per time. Praying according to God's will is therefore understanding that prayer is not just about what we want or think we need but understanding that our Father in heaven knows our needs before we ask, and He is more than capable to do them and even more. The word of God further makes us understand that the will of God for us in prayer is firstly about our relationship with Him. We need a personal relationship with Him more than whatever need or request we are praying for. 

 - Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Eph.5.17

Readings: 1 John 5:13-21; 1Kgs 1:1-15; Psalm 19:1-14; Matt 6:24-34.

Prayers:

Oh Lord my Father, teach me to know Your will for my life that I may access you rightly and seek You as I ought. Help me pray acceptably and understand how to recieve answers from You in patience and joy.  Thank you gracious Lord.  I pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

Prayerful but Diabolical

 Prayerful but Diabolical 

 

- Then he sent messengers to Balaam the son of Beor at Pethor, which is near the River in the land of the sons of his people, to call him, saying: "Look, a people has come from Egypt. See, they cover the face of the earth, and are settling next to me! Therefore please come at once, curse this people for me, for they are too mighty for me. Perhaps I shall be able to defeat them and drive them out of the land, for I know that he whom you bless is blessed, and he whom you curse is cursed." Num.22.5-6.

 A cursory look into the new normal in the modern church is what I call Diabolical Christianity. A typical example of syncretism. A mixture of traditional practice done in Jesus name. The Ballam kind of prophets who allegedly hear from God or the gods but at the same time manipulative. They love to pray, they can prophesy and even being consulted by others for vision and special prayer but their spiritual experiences are combinations of fetishism and prayers. 

They love to pray,  fast,  preach and even perform wonders. They use several elements, rituals and special sacred prayer locations. So also they see no reason not to consult the oracle, eat concussions and do special prayer rituals that have nothing related to the gospel of Christ. These set of 'believers' see no difference in the cultural traditions and biblical Christianity. They are present at every crusade, revival and evangelism but also not restrained from immorality and seeking insight from soothsayers and herbalists. Many of such are even prostitutes seducing naive Christians causing them to lust while some have even fallen completely in their trap. They are herbalists covered in Cassocks and suits teaching and subtly luring believers into fetishism under the guise of promoting the use of herbs and traditional medicines. 

Rev.2.14 - But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality.

Like Balaam and Jezebel,  they are being consulted both for blessings and curses once you can pay for their services. There's no knowledge of the scriptures or the simple biblical truths and righteousness in them. Many of them are professional herbalists and harlots merely using the Church to market their products and services. It's so appalling that many of such have grown so strong that no-one can dissociate them from the fold. They have been made leaders in one department or the other,  some have even been ordained and consecrated temple leaders. Many believers also subtly consult them in challenging times because they appear in Christian regalia even when what they practice is practically demonism and distructive. He who thinks he's standing should beware lest he falls into thier trap. 

Readings: Numbers 22 & 23; 1 kgs 16:30-34; 18:1-13; Revelation 2:12-29.

Prayers: 

Lord, deliver your church and your children from falsehood and deceptive acts orchestrated by the devil to trap believers into the sin of lust, sexual immorality and idolatry. Let the secret manipulation of such satanic agents be revealed by the truth and the light of Your word.  Give your Church discernment and strength to resist all these manipulations. I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen. 

Intercession by Leaders for Followers

Intercession by Leaders for Followers

And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren." Luke.22.31-32.

This statement of Jesus really struck my heart, that Satan has asked for Peter, that he may sift him. The devil never spare any man. His desire is to steal,  kill and destroy. To the extent that everyone he couldn't touch because of God’s shield and protection, he seeks permission to test, try and remove from that divine protecting shield. The devil knows he cannot touch anyone dwelling in the secret place of the Lord and abiding under the shadow of the Almighty. Like he sought permission to afflict Job, so he did to Peter, Judas and every member of the Church militant. 

God allowed him to test Job with several dreary afflictions that most of us in the Church today cannot endure. Because He trusted and perfectly confident that Job had all the required stamina and spiritual grace to withstand whatever the devil could throw at him. In the case of Peter, Judas and even the other twelve disciples, Jesus had to pray for Peter knowing he was going to fall along with the rest. Peter denied Jesus 3 good times as predicted by the Lord. Judas Iscariot betrayed and sold Him to the Pharisees for 30 pieces of silver,  other disciples were scattered and fled like sheep without shepherd. While Jesus prayed for Peter and prophecied he would help others when he's restored, Judas Iscariot's soul was committed to Satan for destruction. 

My focus here was not on why Judas was not graced to be restored,  but that Jesus as the Leader and Lord prayed for Peter and others. I believe this prayer went a long way to keep them restored.  He breathe his strength and Spirit on them after resurrection and instructed them to wait until they recieve power to witness from the Holy Spirit.  This showed that He understood that they like us all have no power of our own to withstand the attacks and manipulation of the enemy. That's why we need a leader,  the good shepherd who will pray, nurture and protect the sheep with all his power.

 Leader should learn from this act of Christ and never stop praying for their followers even for the most notorious and antagonistic ones. Their survival depends so much on your intercession and prayers. We are called to bless them and not to curse. Cursing is helping the devil fulfill his desire to sift, scatter, steal or kidnap and destroy.  We should rather like Moses intercede for them even when God feels like destroying them because of their stubbornness. 

Readings: Gen. 20:1-18, Exo. 32:7-14; Luke 22:31-62.

Prayers:

Oh Lord our advocate and mediator,  give me grace and strength to always stand in the gap for your people and flock. Give greater grace to all our leaders to bless and pray for the flocks committed to their charge even in the face of hostilities, oppositions, discouragements and frustrations from them. This I ask through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Praying for our Leaders

 Praying for our Leaders 

 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,1Tim.2.1-3

The scriptures expressly require every believer to firstly pray and intercede on behalf of our leaders, be it political, religious or wherever. As Christians we are called to reconcile the world to God. We are God's ambassadors called to represent Christ here on earth.  We are not supposed to be caught up in the distractions that have taken charge of the attention and thoughts of a typical unbeliever. We are not meant to engage in the act of complaining or protesting like the world.  Rather,  we are to go to our Father in the secret place. He rules in every human affairs.  Has the heart of Kings and rulers in His hand. He exalts one and abase another.  

No one gets into any position without His knowledge and permission.  If He doesn't allow anyone in a position,  they can never attain it. So, if the ruler or leader is judged incompetent or wicked, complaining all the time is never a  way out. We seek the Lord’s mind in prayers for the leader and for instructions if there's anything he wants us to do. 

 - For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. 2Cor.10.3-6

Before we judge or complain about people we chose to lead us or people allowed by God to lead, we should first check ourselves whether we are faithful to our own responsibilities as followers. Do you wish them well by prayers? Do you know we are all leaders in one Capacity or the other. Every male child is a potential head of a family.  Every man therefore is a family leader. How successful are you in that capacity? Are you faithful in your own small leadership position? Learn to first put yourself in the position of the person you're complaining about,  what will you do if you were in his/her shoes.  Then pray that he/she might get help where necessary if you are not in a position to give helping hand for the success of their duties. No leader fails or succeed alone, His success or failure depends on the people around him.  Pray and support your leaders to excel. It is a duty every Christian must fulfil. 

Readings: 2 Cor. 10:1-18; 1Tim. 2:1-8; Rom. 15:30-34; Eph. 6:23.

Prayers:

Oh gracious Lord,  let your grace and mercy speak for everyone in position of authority that they may discharge their duties in honour of your name and for the benefit of all. Help us as followers too to fulfill your purpose in perfect obedience to Your will.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen 

The Ministry Gifts and Intercession

 The Ministry Gifts and Intercession 

 "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ", Eph.4.11&12.

The Lord Jesus gives gifts to all believers for the edification of the Church.  The Ministry gifts are products of the in filling of the Holy Spirit of God in us. The disciples were impacted with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and there manifested the power through speaking in unknown tongues. After that experience their lives never remain the same. The Apostles were commissioned,  Prophets, Evangelists, Teachers and Pastor were made of those 120 disciples at the upper room. The Apostles witnessed Christ with power, sign and wonders,  converting many souls to the Kingdom of God through His grace.

One thing I want to call our attention to is how long they waited interceding,  stayed together in one accord for about ten days, praying until the Spirit came as instructed and promised by Christ. These people spent enough time waiting on God. This is to emphasize how pertinent the place of waiting in secret is to Ministerial success. None of these and other gifts of the Holy Spirit can be recieved, sustained and productive without spending enough time with God in secret.

"However, this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting." Matt.17.21

The Secret Place is the birth Place of spiritual gifts and manifestation. We need to spend enough time waiting for ourselves and the body of God. Revival is birthed through the word, healing power, prophecies, soul winning and more can only come as effects of unceasing intercession. If you desire a church with all Ministry power manifestation, Pray. For the unity of the church and soul winning, men have to stand in the gap. God is searching for vessels who will stay in His presence until the Church is empowered for fulfilment and until the redemption of our bodies. 

 - For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. Rom.8.22-23.

Readings: Eph. 4:7-16; Acts 1:1-8; Rom. 8:19-27; 1Cor. 12:1-11.

Prayers.

Lord,  raise men for Yourself in area of intercession for the kingdom.  Make me your secret instrument of Revival for this end time generation  in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

Every Believer is an Intercessor

Every Believer is an Intercessor

1Tim.2.1 - Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,

The ministry of Intercession is not peculiarly limited to any specific individuals or some group of people.  We are all called to pray for one another. Firstly for our leaders both political and religious.  Leaders are to pray for the followers and viz-a-viz. The house of God is primarily a place of prayer,  prayers are to be offered to God in the temple for one another. Just like the physical Temple built for the purpose of prayer so is our body, being the temple of the Lord and should be used as an instrument of prayers and supplications.

There is therefore a cause for concern seeing how distracted the Church is from our primary assignment as intercessors and watchmen for the world.  Standing in the gap for the people and the nation is the first duty of the Church. Many of us have failed in this line of duty rather we are busy pursuing other purposes, complaining and carrying irrellevant rumours around. The saints are called to reach out to sinners in Love and intercede for their salvation. The strong are called out to help those who are weak. We are meant to carry each other's burden. And one major way the Church can help the weak and feeble souls is through Intercession.  Instead of praying,  we are most times satisfied pulling them further down through our words, actions and inactions. The Church now seemingly appears like an Army that delights in killing and trashing her wounded soldiers. 

The essence of fellowshippung in the Church is to help build each other in faith. To look out for those who are lost and vulnerable. Iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens the countenance of his friend Pro. 27:17. This is not a business only for Church leaders but for all believers.  Interceding for the salvation of souls yet unsaved and restoration of the lost ones back to faith are our primary purposes.  Let's return to it first on our knees.  We are all called out to pray and interceed for one another. We are to help one another stand strong on this battle field against our common enemies, the flesh, sin and the devil.

Readings: Esther 4: 12-17; Prov. 27:1-17; Tim. 2:1-8;  Gal. 6:1-10

Prayers: 

I receive fresh grace and passion to be an intercessor. I will do my best to keep the kingdom together as a force fighting a common battle. Lord reignite my fire for prayers and intercesion for the men, the Church and the world as a whole.  May I never fail nor faint in this duty in Jesus Christ's name I pray.  Amen. 

The Secret Ministry of Intercession

The Secret Ministry of Intercession 

Ezek.22.30 - And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.

Intercession is a prayer to God on behalf of another person, ministry or nation. God is searching for men in the secret place to pray. People who may not be at the war front like Joshua but would wait with Moses on the mountain like Aaron and Hur, making sure his weary hands are kept uplifted until the battle is over. The secret place is the place where the battle of life is won. This is one of the most important ministries or departments in the Kingdom that every ministry and minister should give serious attention. It is very pertinent to the growth and sustainability of any ministry or mission. 

The devil attacks this department of the Church to the extent that some intercessors had abandoned their calling to the secret place while contending with people they should be interceding for.  To be an intercessor, one need to learn from Christ Himself who even in the face of rejection, persecution, torture and death hurled on Him by the same people He was mediating for, never complained.  He rather prayed that God would forgive them for they knew not what they did. 

Intercessors don't complain nor seek to be known or awarded for what they do. They don't need human appreciation or approval. It's a ministry in the secret place that is more effective when it is kept there in the secret. Intercession is the power house of every believer and ministry. The longer you wait on your knees in the secret place, the better your productivity and effectiveness in ministry. God is still searching for vessels in this area. Who will give their time, resources, sacrifice pleasure, stay up at night, wait in the gap for God’s people and His work on earth.  

Is this your area of calling?  Don't be descouraged because of human attitude and insults. Is God calling you into this ministry? Great! It's time you arose and fulfil it, stop procastinating. Do you have passion for a better Church? Pray! Do you love to see souls won to the Kingdom? Start by interceding. Do you long for a new revival experience in our time? Go to the secret place of prayer,  that's where great men are birthed, nurtured and pruned for exploits. You are needed! God is still searching for sincere and passionate souls to stand in the gap for the Church and for the nations.  Let's get to work on our knees. 

Readings: Ezek.  22:23-31; Exo. 17:1-16; Rom. 8:19-34; 1 Tim. 2:1-8.

Prayers:

Oh gracious Lord,  raise men for Yoursef who will stand in the gap, seeking Your face in the secret place until Your glory fills the earth like waters cover the sea. Consecrate me for this divine service and bless every soul interceding in the secret for souls and Church of God. I ask in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen 

Serving from the Secret Place

 Serving from the Secret Place 

But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly. Matt.6.3-4.

In a generation where most people wouldn't want any act of service to God or humanity except when it's publicised or announced. Most Church members  want their  names mentioned before responding to calls to serve. Everyone loves the pulpit ministry but most people can't pay the hidden sacrifice. They love public recognition more than heavenly recognition.  Many do not serve to be rewarded by God but to be applauded by men. I see a need to re-examine how our service to God is done especially at a time like this when fame and public approval seem to appeal to many more than God’s words and commands. 

The Secret Place is the best place to serve, planting season is often  silent and hidden. Sow your seeds whether in the form of prayer, fasting or giving silently and discreetly. Jesus taught that the best way to give as a believer is to do it without letting others know. This is signifying humility and simplicity. God wants us to be humble even in the place of prayer. The act of bended knees is synonymous to being humble and submissive before God. Express yourself to Him humbly and secretly. When we brag about the hours spent before God in prayers or turn prayer to only noisy and dramatic acts just to feel good within ourselves or to get the people's approval of our spirituality, Jesus says we have received our rewards already. 

As much as many love giving and praying in public places for others to see or applaud, it doesn't automatically mean it's divinely approved. This act is becoming a custom in many churches today as many leaders believe if you do not make them do it openly or allow them display it by announcing it publicly, they wouldn't give big. The standard of God hasn't changed. Jesus was explicit about the act of giving,  fasting and praying being done secretly. He appreciates it more and rewards those who will give and pray only unto Him in Spirit and in Truth. It is called  prayer not a show.  It is called  service not doing God or the Church a favour. Giving or praying in the secret is giving or praying honestly for divine rewards. This is Christ’s command to all Christians. Let not your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Then your father who sees in the secret will reward you in public. 

We need a return to the biblical recommendation for Christian spirituality and divine service of giving. They are first of all acts of service and duties to God our Father. When we fast and pray,  it's because we want to communicate with Him and not to impress anyone. There's always a divine instruction that has to be followed strictly for every act of service to God. We cannot continue to do God's work our own ways and expect His blessings. Jesus calls us to pray, fast and give with all sincerity and honesty. He's calling us to a spiritual consciousness in worship and with pure conscience. 

Readings: Psalm 25:1-22; Matt. 5:42-48; Romans 13:11-14.

Prayers: 

Oh God of Truth,  Who knows the secret of every heart,  help me to be more discreet in my service and walk with You. I do not want to be a lousy, noisy and mere empty vessel. Teach us to serve you in an acceptable way that we may receive timely answers to our prayers and rewards for our sacrificial services here and in eternity.  We pray through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen 

The Hiding Place of Refuge

 The Hiding Place of Refuge 

Ps.91.2 - I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust."

The secret place of God is the hiding place for all His children. It's the place of our sure refuge, shelter and defence against all enemies' assaults. When the devil roars around like lion seeking whom to devour, we are not perturbed because only those homeless and without shelter can fall prey to the predator. God wants all of us in His secret place because there we find salvation and rest for our souls. The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe. Prov.18.10

The arms of flesh will definitely fail. The horses and chariots, the amulets and ammunitions can't fight against the spiritual wickedness in the high places. Many people forget the Lord in the face of threats and intimidation of the power of darkness. In a generation where many thought God is often too slow to protect,  they run in error of desperacy to seeking refuge from herbalists, cults and occultism, but the end result is usually more disastrous than what took them there. Like the case of a woman who sought refuge and protection for her only son by joining the witches only to be asked to sacrifice the son as her contribution to the coven.

Many seek solutions to money matters and several other life's challenges from demons only to end up as lunatics. The Psalmist says in Ps.20.7&8- Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright.

 - God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. For You have been a shelter for me, A strong tower from the enemy. Ps.46.1&3.

I am very sure, everyone who has tasted of the power of God's hiding place can testify and praise the Lord Almighty like king David who said, "Blessed be the LORD my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle. My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me". Ps.144.1&2

Readings: Psalm 20, 91; 46; 144; 61; Prov.  18:1-15

Prayers: Hide me oh Lord in Your secret place of Refuge. Keep me from every peril and danger of this world. May I forever remain under Your shadow in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen

Our Father's Dwelling Place

 Our Father's Dwelling Place

Matt.6.6 - But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

In continuation of our study on the secret place,  today we'll meditate on it as the dwelling place of God, our Father.  The secret place is the place to find the Father. God doesn't dwell in the midst of rowdiness or chaos. He is a God of orderliness, seclusion, serenity and calmness.  Every prophet of old found Him in their moments of aloneness and separation. There are distractions out there in the crowd,  but Jesus the author and finisher of our faith will often withdraw from the crowd to a solitary place to commune with the Father.  

Luke.5.16 - But Jesus often withdrew to the wilderness for prayer

Yes,  God is everywhere but His attention is mostly available for His chosen vessels in the secret place. Although, He ministers to the crowd openly but the disciples were taught the act of solutude, that's where He answers their many questions. He speaks in parable to the crowds but inside the dwelling place, He explains in clear terms to His disciples. If Jesus could develop the act of praying in the solitary place, to the extent of separating Himself for 40 days and nights alone in the wilderness before He began and also at Getsemane before He ended His earthly ministry, we should know it carries a great mystery that we all should unfold and emulate.

Matt.14.23 - And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. Mark.1.35 - The next morning Jesus awoke long before daybreak and went out alone into the wilderness to pray.

Moses met Yahweh in the wilderness alone before He was commissioned to lead Israel after being a vagabond for almost 40 years. God taught Him a regular act of meeting with Him alone in the secret place for regular instructions on every issue about His calling and life. The secret place of God is a place of awe and reference. The experience of Elijah's encounter with God on Horeb the Mountain of the LORD is another case for further consideration. Ironical, the three representing, the Law, the Prophets and the Gospel, were together with the Father at the mountain of transfiguration. If you truly need the attention or regular fellowship with the Father, the secret place of prayer and meditation is His dwelling place. Seek Him there and You will find Him.

Heb.4.16 - So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it.

Readings: 1 Kgs 19:1-21; Exodus 3:1-14; Mark 1:32-37; Matt. 17:1-9.

Prayers: Lord of grace and mercy, help me to establish a personal permanent abode with You in the secret place of prayer where your sovereignty abounds for ever. Teach me to there abide until I see You face to face. I ask in Jesus Christ's name. Amen

The Secret Place

 The Secret Place 

Ps.91.1 - He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

The secret place is your private life. Everyone has a private life, where you are all alone. The private life of every believer speaks volumes on how his life will be in reality. What you do in your secret place will determine how your whole life will pan out. If you dedicate your private life to mundane things, that determines your whole life's focus and reality. The secret place is a part of our lives that needs serious attention and that is why we are going to spend a few days talking about it. 

If there is a part of our lives that needs all the efforts to improve daily, to explore and maximise, a part where time wasting is a great disservice, a part of us where we determine our future, career and eternity. It is that private part of us. As we humans are created with this opportunity so God has His own. Jesus was a man who adored His solitary and knew when to activate it no matter how busy He is. 

The secret place is a place of preparation, study, learning and prayers. For a believer, it is a place to spend time with God, your maker. A place to receive strength and abundant grace for a purposeful living. A place of searching, seeking, knocking and receiving. The place to receive revelations, power and direction for each day and every day of our lives. It is a place of covenant and self consecration. A sure place of safety, salvation, security, absolute protection and all round blessings. 

We are not supposed to waste away our private life on frivolities and unproductive acts. If you maximise your private opportunities, you will gain the reward in the open. The secret place is a spiritual place, what you do there determines your physical realities. The consequences of which might go beyond you alone but have lasting effects on your generations yet unborn and also influence destinies attached to your existence. 

Matt.6.6 - But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

Readings: Psalm 91; Mark 1:35-45; Gal. 2

Prayers: 

I receive grace to make the best use of my secret life. I receive grace to explore, maximise and spend my secret life in the presence of God so that I may stay secure in His plan and purpose for me and my generation in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

Pray in Secret

 Pray in Secret 

Matt.6.6 - But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.

The Pharisaic character of showing off is now becoming the order of the day among believers and in many churches. We love to publicise every pious act. Worshipping God is supposed to be a spiritual thing, done in spirit and in truth. We need to note what Jesus Himself warned the disciples against. We are in a generation where secret intercessors are very scarce. Some intercessors now want to be paid and recognised by the councils.  Personal private prayer altar before God, kneeling in the secret to pray is still highly revered by our Father who sees in secret.  

Jesus Christ advised the disciples as He does to modern day believers, 

Matt.6.5 - "And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.

Jesus says, It's hypocritical to do what you don't do in the secret in the open. They give their donations only in the open and the only time they appear serious and prayerful is at the Church.  They do this for men and not for God. With their mouth they are close to God but in their hearts they are a million miles far away. Don't do like them 

Matt.6.7 - And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.

Beware of vain repetitions. Composing special prayer rhymes to form sweet melodious sounds to human ear is only a show of human wisdom. This is not a yardstick to proof your prayer prowess, that you spent hours shouting all day and night in the temple or on the mountain doesn't mean your payer will be heard. Allow the Holy Spirit to help your weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Rom.8.26

Matt.6.8 - "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.

Readings: Matt 6:1-8; James 4 :1-11; Psalm 15.

Prayers:

Help me Father to seek You more in secret. Revive my quiet time and personal prayer live. I need a sincere personal experience of your presence in my secret place in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen 

A Father-Son Relationship

First thing First-A Father-Son Relationship 

Matt.6.8 -9 "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.

An established Father-son relationship with God is the first step to effective prayer life. Prayer is a two way affair that involves listening and speaking, giving and taking, knowing and being known. How do you communicate with someone you don't have access to? How do you get someone you don't know to do your bidding? And when you are oppurtuned to access Him, what do you ask for? First thing first, wisdom is the principal thing, in all your gettings, get understanding. Knowing Him as a Father is the first and most important prerequisite to answer prayers.

A touch on Solomon's prayer in Ikgs 3, shows us how God is delighted when we know what's more important to pray about. As a Father, He knows all our needs before we ask and He is more than willing to do even more if we can only learn to priorities His interests above ours. God gave Solomon all he needed but didn't ask for, all because he was more concerned about the Father's business. He was not overwhelmed by his new position and seek what an average person will wish for, but sought for wisdom to excel as a leader of God's people. God gave him wisdom and all the blessings anyone could ever pray for.

If you put your relationship with God first above your needs, be rest assured you will recieve multiple of your heart desires. Before you pray, make sure you have settled your position as a son to the Almighty Father, your soul, your love, your being with Him is more important than all the earthly treasures and sacrifices. Return to your Father first like the prodigal son and you will be surprised by the kind of party He will throw in your celebration. Seek a cordial relationship with the giver not just run desperately only after His gifts.

Readings: IKgs 3:1-15; Matt. 6:1-18; Luk. 15:11-32; James 4:1-11

Prayers:

Oh Lord, my Father, help me to seek You first before my wants and worries. Teach me to trust You and relate with You like a son to His Father. Thank You Lord for Your Fatherly love and care. I will remain in this covenant all my days in Jesus Christ’s name. Amen.

Knowing How to Pray

 Knowing How to Pray

Luke.11.1 - Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."

Prayer is worship. Worship is all about prayer. Prayer is having a communion or communication with God. An act of conversing in the Spirit with God. Prayer is a spiritual act that involves physical expressions and spiritual understanding.  Understanding the act of praying is essential to building an effective and efficient Prayer life. 

One of the reasons we are often frustrated and tired of praying is because we really do not understand what prayer is. Many of us misconstrue the act of prayer as something noisy, a verbal or vocal expression of our desires to God which could sometimes be overly  mechanical or stereotyped exercise done in a particularly organised sacred place to a distanced, inaccessible deity.  Many people do not feel they have prayed until it involves some dramatic actions, utterances and hidden codes. 

Like Jesus taught His disciples, I want to say the act of praying is quite simple and personal. The act of prayer and worship encompasses every aspect of our lives.  A simple act of fellowship and communication with God which can be done anywhere, at any time and without any strict particular (how) posture. Prayer is spiritual because God is a Spirit and it will take sincerity of heart to communicate with Him. Prayer is firstly a thing of the heart and mind before connecting our bodies. Our physical dramas and organised acts like the Pharisees matter little without the true sincerity of our souls and spirits.  

Jesus says, “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." John 4:23-24.

Readings: Luke 11:1-14; James 4:1-17;  John 4:19-24; 

Prayers:

Oh Lord open our hearts to understand how to pray in Spirit and in Truth.  Teach and help us to pray as we ought to.  I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen.