Friday, March 31, 2006

Intercession: It's a 24/7 Job...!

I've been in the habit of not petitioning God on Fridays. I've been using the popular phrase: 'Thank God it's Friday' for years now. I've rationalized that it's not good to just petition God all the time, that I should take at least one day off a week (from petitioning). But I was reading the works of Oswald Chambers this morning and had a revelation that it's not the fact that I'm petitioning God seven days a week, it's HOW I'm petitioning. It's the state of my heart as I'm petitioning. Here are a collection of quotes from today's My Utmost for His Highest devotional that explains it succinctly:
"...Worship and intercession must go together; one is impossible without the other. Intercession means raising ourselves up to the point of getting the mind of Christ regarding the person for whom we are praying... Are we worshiping God in a way that will raise us up to where we can take hold of Him, having such intimate contact with Him that we know His mind about the ones for whom we pray...? Are we living in a holy relationship with him, or are we being hard and dogmatic?...'"


Dr Chambers went on to describe those who instead of worshiping God, just recite speeches about how God is supposed to work, throwing petitions at the throne and dictating to HIM what they want HIM to do. -I'm afraid that describes myself at times...

I like how Oswald Chambers reminds us that we must have the mind of Christ' regarding the person for whom we are praying. And, he explains that 'authentic' intercessory prayer IS worshiping God. Which means that by not petitioning God on Friday's I've actually worshiped Him less, not more....

Well, I'm now of the mind set that intercession is a round the clock job. (At least for me it is.) It seems I am always moved about something or someone to pray for. If a person is called to intercession I think they should do without ceasing!

Today Dear Lord I thank You for speaking to my heart through the works of Your servant Oswald Chambers. Father God It is my heart's deep desire to be in a constant state of worship, a constant state of connection to You. I would never want to do anything that was not pleasing to you, my King. I have been so blessed in so many ways... I have a life far better than I deserve. And I want to show my gratitude by living a Godly life that honors and magnifies Your Kingdom.

Lord, You know that I am struggling with some relationships right now. I realize that these struggles are an opportunity for Your glory to show itself. I do pray for Your mind regarding the relationships in question. I pray for Your wisdom. In my interaction during these relationships let Your words be my words, Lord. Help me to be kind, gentle, patient.... Help me to be like You, my Savior.

Jesus, there is none like You. I know You can and You will heal the situations I speak of. I believe in You. I trust in You. I have faith in You, my God. There is no problem too big that You can't handle or too small that you wouldn't want to be bothered with. You've got the whole world in Your hands... You are a great big God...!

I love You Lord. I give this day to You. I do thank God it's Friday...!

And I pray these things in Jesus' name, AMEN...!

Thursday, March 30, 2006

Precious Time

Time is the greatest commodity in the world. I think that most people take time for granted. We have no idea how much time we have left in this world. As I compose today's devotional this morning I am keenly aware that it very well could be the last post I ever make. Certainly, I'm hoping and expecting to be around tomorrow but there's no guarantee. And that makes every moment, every breath precious.

Having lived 40 years now, it's safe to say that I've probably already lived at least half my life. If I get another 40 years out of this body I'll be extremely grateful because I'd sure like to make up for lost time.

The first 20 years of my life I really didn't know the Lord. I knew OF Him but I really didn't know Him. And honestly, in the last twenty years I can say that although I've been saved since 1985 I've really only been on fire for the Lord for about the last Five Years. And after getting married and having a baby my perspective of life, the value of time, and God's will for my life have completely changed. I've never felt God's calling like I do now. I realize now how becoming a husband and a father changes a man dramatically. I mean the metamorphosis is like a catepiller to a butterfly...There's this deep compelling need to provide for my family spiritually that I never knew existed. I want to be the most Godly man I can be to inspire and disciple my children, and to honor and cherish my sweet wife who is such a blessing to me.

My wife and I are severely stressed with our time management these days. I awakened at 3 AM this morning to write this devotional just so I could have time afterwards to work on my other work until Monica awakens and then I can help her with the baby so she can get her work done, too.

Especially while Elijah is in his baby years there just seems to be precious little sleep time for Sam and Monica. So today while I may pray for many things, one of my greatest prayer requests is that God allows me to be a good steward of my precious time.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord Thank You for this moment in time. Thank You for another day to serve You, my family, and to influence the world for the Kingdom of God. Father I hope and pray that You still have many days left in store for me, but regardless I will live today like it's my last one. I will love and cherish my family like I may never see them again. I will run head first into this day with reckless abandon to honor You, Lord. You are my Savior and my Redeemer. You are my King. I owe everything to You, my Precious God.

You are the Father and the Keeper of Time. Thank You for this time you give me. Father help me to make the most of this time. I feel the hour is near. Possibly my last hour, or the hour of this world. There is definitely no time to waste. Lord there are souls to be saved...!

I pray dear Lord that my life, and my words, and my actions would glorify You today and make a difference to this world around me. Father I pray that I not miss a single opportunity to win a soul for the Kingdom. My King help me be a good steward of my allotted time.

Precious Jesus, I lift up some important women in my life today:
  • Thank You for my sweet wife, Monica and bless her day today. She's struggling with her time just as I am.
  • I lift up my sister in New York as she is ministering to her family and friends in her sphere of the world.
  • I lift up Marguerite Mariani who has just lost her mom. Grant her peace and comfort and may she know Your will for her as she enters a new phase of her life now.
  • I lift up my mother in law, Judy who is such a sweet kind woman. I pray that she and her husband Arno are used mightily by You in their retirement years.
  • And Lastly Dear Lord I pray for my Grandmother who is into her 90's. Father please keep her around a little longer so I can get to know her better.

Lord Jesus, I love You. My life is Yours. You gave Your life for me and now I give my life for You. There is no greater way for man to live (and die) except in service to His King.

Father I pray these things in the Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.


Wednesday, March 29, 2006

Praying To Know God's Will

The past few days I've been listening to Dr Charles Stanley's series on knowing God's Will for Your Life. I've heard this series before. It's excellent as are all Dr Stanley's series.

Without going deep into the series this morning, I will report that two ways a person can discern the will of God is through the reading of His Word and through prayer. These are the main two ways. Pretty simple huh...?

Dear Heavenly Father,

God You are Good. You are an awesome, powerful, wonderful, almighty God. I love You, Lord. And I pledge my life to You. I am here to do Your Will, Lord. Father I know my family has been placed here to be a witness for Your Kingdom. We struggle with being an effective witness occasionally because we don't always function smoothly as a family. I see those times as spiritual attacks Lord. I feel the enemy would like nothing more than to render us ineffective for witnessing.

So Father I lift up my family this morning. I pray blessings on Monica, Connor, Elijah, and myself. I pray that each family member know Your individual will for their lives. I bathe them in prayer today, Lord. Bless Them. Lift them up, I pray. We all want to live God-honoring lives.

Father I pray also for my coworkers at Columbia Lakes. Wednesday is always a big meeting day here. I pray that wisdom and good decision making prevail. I pray for Your Holy Spirit to be present here at work today. Father help me to impact my work place for You.

Lord I do pray that Your Will be done. I pray for You perfect will, my King. Lord You are Perfect. You are a Perfect God. And I love You and Praise Your Name.

In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Getting Back To Basics: Intercession

Look, it's been five days since I've posted in this prayer journal. Now certainly, it hasn't been five days since I've prayed, but it has been 5 days since I've set aside special time like this morning time to just spend in God's presence. Now how does God feel about that..? Well, he can't be pleased.

Suppose this were a human relationship. Would I go five days without without spending any quality time with my best friend...? Absolutely not.

God gives us 24 hours each day. Can't I give HIM at least one of those hours...? How about 30-45 minutes...? Isn't the Author of the Universe worth at least 1/24th of my day...?

And I know I've been all over the map with my devotional time. I awakened today with a sense of need to get back to intercession. Oh, it's fine to go off on studies here and there and to expound on a particular topic occasionally, but this journal's roots are grounded in intercession and praying for souls to be won for the Kingdom. IT'S TIME TO GET BACK TO WHERE I STARTED.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Today Lord I'm getting back to basics. I want to lift up my family: My brothers John and Stanley, and my Sister, Becky. Lord I pray that they know a deep abiding relationship with You. Father I pray that someone or something comes along and witnesses to their souls. Father I pray that You season my words in conversation and communication with them that I might be Your ambassador.

Father God, I didn't have any say over who was boprn into my family. That is Your Divine Appointment, Lord. What am I to do with that appointment...? I have tried a number of things. But I haven't prayed like I could have and should have.

Lord I lift up Stanley, Becky, and John to You today. I present them to You. I pray for their salvation, Lord.

Father God, You have this situation in Your hand. I leave it with You. And I pray this special intercessory prayer in Jesus' Name, AMEN.

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Prayer For My Wife and Baby Elijah

Today my wife has to fly to Tennessee to deal with some legal matters regarding my stepson Connor's estate. Elijah is going with her. They are leaving in a few minutes to drive to the airport. I am already missing them, and regretting that we will not be together as a family for over 36 hours...

I'm holding Elijah in my arms as I type with one hand... I've been up already for hours and have been praying about this matter the entire time... And no doubt I'll be praying all day today through out the day as well...

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I can't be there for Monica and Elijah today, but I entrust them to Your protecting hands, Gentle Savior. Bless them Father, Lift them up today. Grant them traveling mercy as they venture to Tennessee. And Father I just give this entire legal matter to You as well. I trust and pray that it will all be worked out according to your will, My King.

Father God I just praise You and worship You this morning. You are an Awesome God and have blessed me abundantly. I give it all, my life, my family, my everything to You, Christ Jesus.

And I pray this In Your Holy Name, Amen!

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

My Momma

March 20 was the anniversary of my Mom's passing. It's been 6 years since she died of complications associated with Lupus. Sigh... I've been a little down emotionally just remembering those days... And do you remember my Sister's mother in law that had the heart attack last week...? She passed away just a few days ago, as well, so my sister is really reliving those days of March 2000 all over again...

And as usual, I've got my plate jam packed with too much stuff and I'm trying to help Monica with the baby and the house every spare second.... I'm always running 1000 miles per hour... Today I have several sensitive time deadlines and I must get focused quickly and complete a couple of urgent projects.

I just give it to the Lord... (Like I always do, eventually)

Dear Heavenly Father,

Oh Lord I need You today more than I ever have. I need a divine transfusion of energy to perc me up. I'm weary and moving slow right now. But You Lord are THE Source of eternal life.

You are my Rock. You are My Redeemer. Lord You can do anything. I know You can straighten the course of my life. Father, I don't know how You will do it, but I just know that You Can, and You Will...! I need to either prune some activities and responsibilities from my schedule, or I need to hire an assistant or more support staff.

Lord I do pray for my situation with a new assistant pro. I pray that the person I have in mind will work out, or if he doesn't work out then I can just hang in there until You do send the right person to help me. Until the perfect person comes in Your perfect timing, Lord... I will be patient...!

Lord I just want to glorify You. I want to live a blameless life. I realize that many look to me for direction and leadership. Help me to make wise decisions that reflect my Christian beliefs and Honor You. Father God, it's all about YOU. I love You Lord. I give this day to You. Make of it what you will my King.

Lord, Thank You for the life of my Momma. She was a good mom that did the best she could to raise me and she definitely loved me. She helped shape me into the man that I am today. Lord I wish I knew the condition of her soul when she departed. My main regret in life so far is that I feel that I was an ineffective witness to her. Father I pray for peace about that issue. I pray for forgiveness. And I pray these things in Jesus' Name.

Monday, March 20, 2006

Praise Report...!

I'd like to report that my tournament this weekend went very well. There were participants from San Antonio, Round Rock, and College Station, as well as local Harris, Brazoria, and Matagorda county area tennis players. Although there was a good bit of rain all around the greater Houston area this weekend, there was virtually no rain at our tennis center. It was a bit windy yesterday, but that's better than rain....

All in all, everyone had a good time and I'd have to say that it was a sparkling success. And I give all the credit to God. Many prayers were answered by the rain being diverted this weekend. It's raining now, and that's just perfect because I was planning on taking the morning off any way.

I had great weather for my spring break camps earlier this week, too. And that's God, too...!


Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You Lord for allowing me to have good events all this past week. Father God, it's all You. There could just have easily been lots of rain and just a mess made of everything. But God You answered our prayers. You are an awesome God.

I made many new friends and renewed old acquaintances this weekend, Lord. Thank You and praise You for expanding my sphere of influence. Thank You Lord for Your blessings.

I love You Lord, I thank You and praise You and lift You up today. You are my Lord and personal savior. I give today to You, Lord. And I pray these things in Jesus' Name, AMEN.




Thursday, March 16, 2006

Lifting Up the Mariani Family

Dear Prayer Warriors,

Please join me in lifting up the Mauro Mariani Family of Whitestone, New York, today. His wife, Sue suffered a major heart attack on Monday and is in a coma on life support. My sister Becky is Sue's daughter in law. (she's married to John Mariani, Maura and Sue's oldst son). Sue is a kind sweet woman and has been like a second momma to Becky for a long time!

I've known this family for over 20 years and they are very dear to me as well. I'll post more details as I find out...


Dear Heavenly Father,

My Lord and Savior, It's difficult to go a single day without coming face to face with our own mortality. Father, You know the Mariani's. You know their situation. I lift them up to You Lord. I pray for comfort, I pray for understanding, I pray for strength in their hour of need. They are in shock over the condition of their beloved Sue. Father God I just pray that Your will be done in this matter.

I specifically lift up the Mariani children: (all grown up adults) John, Bobby, Marguerite, and Paulie. I know what it's like to face the prospect of losing a mom, and I'm grieving right along with them. I pray for Mauro who has been married to Sue for I don't know how long, something like 50-60 years. I can't even imagine what he's going through. I never want to face the time that I might lose my sweet Monica... That would certainly shake me to my very foundation. I'm sure there are other relatives, and they are concerned and grieving, too.

Father God, today is about the Mariani's. They will be facing difficult decisions ahead as they determine whether to keep Sue on life support or not. Draw them close as I am sure they are seeking You in their time of need.

Lord I am seeking You. I need You. I love You and Thank You and Praise and Worship You my King. There is no other God like You...! You are a God of Wonder and Might. You created the whole world. You are the Author of Life. Lord Jesus I pray these things and present the Mariani's to You in Your Sweet Holy Name,

Amen.

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Jesus Meets You Right Where You Are...!

Yesterday I was having a difficult day. By the afternoon I had a lot on my mind and it wasn't all good and positive thoughts. I won't sat that I was in any state of despair or anything like that, but the day was just starting to grind me down and wear me out... Sadly, I'm so used to days like that I hardly notice them any more.

Then I went to the main office at the country club to pick up my mail. My mail box contained a very delightful card from a family that I coached for the past few years whom had recently relocated out of state.

They thanked me for being their coach and expressed what a great impact I'd had on their lives and wrote how much they loved and missed me. I have to say that tears were streaming down my face while by the time I was finishing their message.

At that point I realized they were being Jesus to me. This sweet Godly family reached out from over 1000 miles away and lifted me up and comforted me. Indeed, they encouraged me tremendously. Now instead of dwelling on negative situations before me I was totally pumped and energized.

Yes, that is why I'm a coach. That is why I press on when I'm not always feeling my best. I have no doubt that receiving a card like that is the fruit of living a life yielded to Jesus Christ.

My Lord and Savior comes and meets me at my point of need. I sure needed a little encouragement, a little lift yesterday. And HE was there right when I needed HIM. Jesus is my Rock. He's my Redeemer. He's Faithful. PRAISE HIM...!

Dear Lord,

Thank You coming and rescuing me. You do that over and over again. You give Life. You take care of Your people giving them what they need when they need it. You are Mighty and Wonderful. Father God I have so many prayer requests but this morning I'm not going to speak them here. You know me. You obviously know my heart. You know my needs, Lord.

I just want to praise and worship You this morning, my King. And I want to lift up in prayer the wonderful family whom You used to lift me up yesterday. Lord You are Good. You are Wonderful. You have the whole world in the palm of Your hand. I rest in You Lord. I claim Victory in You. The Evil One will not overtake me. I have You beside me all the time looking out for me, protecting me.

Father please bless the Knaupps today. (and every day) I love them. They are a most special family. The life they live is a surrendered life to You, Lord. They have been such a blessing to me and my family. They spread joy and love where ever they are planted. They are an inspiration. I am richly blessed to know them.

Jesus, I'll get to the point here. I love You. You are my God. My life revolves around You. I live to serve You. I show my love for You by giving my utmost for Your highest. I love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and spirit.. I give 100 percent in all my endeavors in honor of You, Lord.

I give this day to You.. I pray that I glorify You Today. I pray that I magnify You.

In Your Holy Name I Pray,

Amen.

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

The First Thing and The Main Thing

What's the FIRST thing that crosses your mind when you awaken in the morning...? What's that initial conscious, cognizant thought that you have...? Do You even have a waking up pattern...?

My first thought in the morning goes something like this: 'Good Morning Lord, I Love You. I thank You for another day, You are an Awesome God....'

My morning time is my primary time with God. No matter how much stuff I have going on, I devote that first part of my day to Jesus. And the moment my eyes open I want to be in communion with HIM. If I'm still very sleepy I'll make my prayer a simple, 'I love You Lord', over and over again. Sometimes (like this morning) I'll begin praying for extra strength and fortitude for a full and busy day ahead (like today). Sometimes I have to pray: 'Lord, Help me wake up, help me pray...'

But the point of all this is that Jesus Christ is the first thing on my mind to start my day. He's the main focus of my day. I recall a song I heard by a Christian artist a long time ago... It was called Main Thing.

It was really pretty simple, just a 2 part chorus actually. The lyrics went like this:

First Verse sung by women and girls: The main thing is to keep the MAIN THING the main thing. (repeat)

Second Verse sung by men and boys: I KNOW the main thing is to keep the MAIN THING the main thing.... (repeat)

Last Verse All singing together: JESUS You're my MAIN THING...!

Dear Heavenly Father,

Jesus, You're my MAIN THING...! You're NUMBER ONE on my list of important priorities. I love You Lord. And I thank You and Praise You and Worship You, my King. I want my whole day to be about glorifying and worshiping You. If I face a battle, or a problem... Something that challenges me, I will overcome and be victorious in Your Name, Jesus.

Father I do see a tough day ahead for myself. I'm starting out a little physically under the weather this morning and I do need Your strength to get me through. But Lord I know You are there for me. And I can do all things through You... So Lord I press on through this day. And everything is in Your honor, Lord.

Today I give my utmost for Your Highest... Lord thank You for my opportunities. I have another opportunity to have a major impact in the lives of many junior tennis players this morning in my camp. I have an opportunity to impact my co-workers. I have an opportunity to impact my family today Lord. Father God I just pray Your blessings on my day. Help me keep it all in perspective, Lord. Allow my witness to shine brightly today and every day.

Jesus YOU are my MAIN THING...! I give this day to You, Lord. And in Your Sweet, Kind, Gentle, Holy Name I Pray,

Amen.

Monday, March 13, 2006

That All Might Know HIM...

This was the title of Pastor David Barclay's sermon this past Sunday. He preached from Phillipians 3:10 '...that I might know Him and the power of His resurrection...', and Psalm 22:22-28 '...All the ends of the world shall remember and return to the Lord...'

It was a great sermon. The two key points of the sermon was that 1.) we are commissioned to know Jesus, and 2.) we are to make Him known to others.

Here are a couple of key quotes from Pastor Barclay that impacted me:

'...We've got a story to tell, and a Savior to share...' And

'That All May Know HIM is God's number 1 Priority...! -Christ deserves our worship...!'

Our mission is to fulfill the Great Comission...! But who do we witness to...?

Well, we must make sure to pay attention to DIVINE APPOINTMENTS.... These are definitely family, friends, possibly co-workers... -who ever the Lord brings into our lives.

We don't need to go off to some foreign country to witness. North America is a ripe mission field. The United States needs God just as much as anyone...! -I see that my little community of Columbia Lakes is a ripe mission field and this is where the Lord has planted me so this is where I must bloom...!

We mustn't miss opportunities... We've got to do three things:

PRAY about it.

GIVE of ourselves: our time, and our money...

GO do it now. Don't procrastinate, be pro-active...

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord thank You for providing spiritual nourishment for my family through First Baptist West Columbia. I can see that You are doing a great work in that church, Lord. Father I pray for today that I and my family present a great witness for Your Kingdom. I pray that we don't miss any opportunities and that we are a blessing to all we encounter.

Lord Jesus I pray for a great tennis camp today. Many of the local youth have chosen to spend a good portion of their spring break with me and I want it be a very memorable occasion for them Lord. Here is my first 'opportunity' for the day...! And Father, well You know my tournament deadlines are drawing close... And I'm praying for more entries, Lord.

Father God, these are things that I would like to happen, but Lord I do pray that Your divine will be done here and what ever happens I will press on with a joyous heart. You see my King, I'm just happy to be one of Your Adopted Children. And I love You, and Praise You, and lift You up no matter what the circumstance or outcome.

Father I lift up my wife and stepson and little baby to You this morning. Bless them my Lord. And I lift up my co-workers today. This environment we're operating under is particularly stressful and I know that not everyone has the coping skills that I do, so I pray for them. (-Especially for Dondra, my manager who is suffering from a back injury!)

Lastly Lord, I just pray that You bless my schedule. I can't afford to waste time. There is lots to do and little time to do it in... Strengthen me. Guide me. Lead me, Lord... I will follow You...!

I pray these things this morning in the name of my personal savior, Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Sunday, March 12, 2006

Sunday Morning Musings

It's been months since I've had my act together enough to be able to blog on a Sunday morning. I used to make it a point to spend time in prayer for a particular church or ministry every Sunday morning. I want to get back in that routine. I'm really trying to stay disciplined in this area and I'm committed to blogging a little every day no matter what the circumstances. This morning there's a lot on my heart.

Of course, some of you who have been following my journals from the beginning remember that I originally started my blogging career with my Prayer Warriors journal on AOL back years ago. I started that ministry to lift up the men of Church in the Heights. Over the years my ministry has shifted it's focus to intercessory prayer over a variety of topics and subjects. I feel that's one of my callings: Prayer. I love prayer. I love to dive into a deep, rich communion and conversation with God. And I try to keep an ongoing dialog going on all day long with my Lord and Savior. The time I spend here in this public forum isn't my only time with God.

And the purpose of this blog isn't to impress anyone. I'm not interested in earthly rewards. It is my wish that perhaps someone browsing or surfing the internet may stumble across my blog and get a message from my random entries. And let's face it, I'm all over the map spiritually. Some days I'm into writing lessons about what's been revealed to me in my personal scripture study. Some days I'll report the highlights of a particular sermon I listened to that touched my heart. Sometimes it's lessons learned from real life. Occasionally I'll do a study on a particular topic that interests me. Other times it's just going to be a prayer.

Prayer is the backbone of this blog. When I started this blog I wasn't very adept at prayer. (not that I think I am now, either...) I didn't know how to have an intimate conversation with God, especially in a public venue. The only prayers I really new were rote memorized prayers that I learned in school and the church of my childhood. My first real prayer after asking God into my heart as my personal Lord and Savior was to ask God to help me to pray better. I wanted to pray a real prayer from the heart, to just let it flow. You see, I would choke up when I had to pray, especially when I would pray in front of my wife or friends. For some reason it mattered to me what they thought about how I prayed. And then I realized that pride was the issue. Now when I pray I try to pray as if there's no one in the room but me and the Lord. (many times that's the case anyway.)

Wow, this entry is getting quite lengthy. I'd better close for now. Thanks for tuning into Coach Sam's Prayer Journal. It is my prayer that God Richly Bless you. If you have a prayer request post it right here on my blog or send a private email to: coachsam@earthlink.net I'd consider it a blessing and a privilege to take your request before the Lord and pray with you.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord in Heaven, I thank You for today. You are an awesome God. You have blessed me and my family and this nation, Lord. I recognize You as my personal Lord and Savior. I am Your adopted son. It is a privilege to be a part of Your family, this body of Christ.

Today I lift up the Ministry of First Baptist West Columbia. I pray blessings on Pastor Barclay and his pastoral staff. I pray that the message this morning is divinely inspired and touches many hearts today. Father I remember Church in The Heights this morning as well. I lift it up. I don't know the details about what's going on there at the moment but I know that You do. You know everything Lord. I pray that Your will be done in that church and that hearts and lives are transformed there into Your image, Father.

Lord I ask a personal blessing on myself today as well. I don't often pray specifically for myself but I pray that you continue to lift up my health because I'm pushing my body hard these days with long hours and little sleep. Thank You for blessing me with excellent support staff at work. I pray that I am an excellent, Godly employer and that I am able to motivate and inspire my employees to give their best effort when helping me. Lord I know that You don't care what kind of occupation I'm involved in. You just care that I do the absolute best I can and that I do it all for Your Glory. Well, that's what I strive for my King. Everything I have is of You or from You. Nothing I have has been accomplished by myself alone. I am nothing with out You, Jesus.

And this morning I give You all the thanks and praise and adoration You are due. You are King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and I love You, Father. I give this day to You, Jesus. And in Your Holy Name I pray, AMEN.

Saturday, March 11, 2006

Prayer for the Weekend

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord God, Mighty God, Awesome God, You are the maker of all things. You are Creator of the Universe. You are everywhere at once. You know all. There are no secrets that can be kept from you. You hold this tiny little world within Your great big palm. You have a love for humanity that is so big, so deep, so wide, and so high that it really can not truly be measured.

Thank You, my King. I love You, Lord. I strive to live my life as a living testimony of Your love and of Your grace. I pray for this weekend, Father. I pray that my words are seasoned this morning. I want to be salt today, Lord. I pray that I give great lessons today Lord and that I impact my students in a powerful way. The tongue is such a powerful and sharp instrument, Lord. Let me use my tongue for words of wisdom and encouragement today.

I pray that those I come in contact with today can see the You in me. I pray that I may be able to preach the Gospel just by my very character, Lord. I pray for my witness today. Father, help me to see every opportunity before me and make the most of it.

Once again thank You Father for the awesome life You've given me. I want to give it all back to you, Lord. Everything is Yours, my King. I am Nothing apart from You. I live to serve You.

Father God, I lift You up this morning. I give You thanks and praise. Because of Your sacrifice I have hope for tomorrow of life everlasting. And I long for that time when I will be reunited with You Heaven, my Savior. Lord in Jesus' Holy Name I pray,

Amen.

Friday, March 10, 2006

Friday: My Day Of Thanks

I feel like I am always petitioning the Lord. Indeed, it is my calling to intercede on behalf of others. But I try to take one day a week and lay down my requests and just thank and praise HIM for His goodness and all He's done for me. You've heard of the term: Thank God it's Friday.. Well I take that to the literal extreme.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I am so grateful today for my life. I have a blessed life. I live in America and I have so much freedom that is taken for granted by many. But I know that the rest of the world does not get to live in luxory as we Americans do. Father God Thank You for placing me in the greatest country in the world.

Lord thank You for my family. I love them so much, especially that little baby. Elijah is truly your gift to this family and the world. We can already tell at the age of seven months that he has a special personality. What a blessing!

Father God, I acknowledge that I have a great job and I am very happy with my occupation. It is a great privilege to work with young people and adults and to be a positive influence in their lives. Certainly at times I feel overwhelmed with activity and responsibility. But then I think of those who are out of work, or can't work as a result of some physical affliction and I give thanks and praise that I am healthy and active.

Lord Jesus I just thank You for everything. I give You praise. You are an awesome God. You are so worthy of my love and devotion. I don't have any requests today Lord. You know me. You know my needs. You know my wants. I give this day to You Lord. I love You and want to serve You my King.

In the name of Jesus Christ my Lord and personal Savior I pray, Amen.

Thursday, March 09, 2006

Prayer for a Good Productive Day

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord God my King, Oh Lord You are great and wonderful. You are powerful and mighty. Your majesty is without equal. You reign in splendor. You are most holy and worthy of all my praise.

Lord Jesus, You have been so good to me. I am unworthy to stand in Your presence. But Lord with my head bowed and on my knees I have requests for You this morning. First of all, I thank You for my blessings, Father. Indeed I have been granted a wonderful life. And I recognize that it's all from You, Lord. Everything I have, everything I am is from You.

My King, I just pray for an extra special productive day today. I pray that I compose great messages and the email and phone calls are delivered with expedient haste and that they reach the intended recipients. Help me be extra creative today as I redesign and update my web pages this morning. Lastly Father, I pray that You bless my conversation and my interaction with others today. I pray that they can see the You in me.

Lord thank You for my family. I bless them and lift them up to You today. I thank You Jesus for another day to effect the world for Your Kingdom. And Lord although I have made specific requests this morning, I do pray that Your will be done. I am Your servant, Lord and I live to glorify You.

I pray these things in Jesus' name, Amen.

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Praise Him -Morning Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord I come to You this morning in thanks and praise and supplication. I thank You Jesus for giving me a Godly wife who loves me so much. I thank You Lord for trusting me with two boys to raise. Lord You have allowed me to live in a nice house in a nice neighborhood and have a nice job. Thank You my King for these blessings.

I am so blessed. My only concern is the direction of my life and how I am to spend my time. My wife prayed for me last night that You show me what activities to prune from my life or allow me to take on helpers to keep up the work flow.

I do consider it both a blessing and a cursing to be so busy. I do think much is expected of me Lord. But I haven't mastered the art of discernment and prioritizing. Help me in that area, Father. That I might be a blessing to others. Help me to bloom right here where I am planted.

I love You Father and I give this day to You, Lord. And I pray these things in Jesus Name, Amen.

Tuesday, March 07, 2006

Romans 8:37

Romans is one of my favorite books of the bible. And Paul is certainly one of my favorite authors. He is such an encourager. Today's scripture discussion comes from my daily Oswald Chambers Devotional. The Key scripture is Romans 8:37:

...In all these things we are more than conquerers through Him who loved us.

What are these 'things' Paul is speaking of...? Well you have to go back to verse 35 and Paul lists examples of difficulty and explains that nothing shall seperate us from Christ's Love. His list includes tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, and sword. Later in verses 38 and 39 he reiterates that neither life nor death, nor angels, nor principalities and powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any created thing, shall be able to seperate us from the love of God.

Wow, that is an amazing Love...! What a powerful Love. And if we have Christ in us, if we have accepted Christ as our personal Lord and Savior then nothing can ever truly seperate us from HIM. We are not just Conquerers. We are MORE than Conquerers in our Christ Jesus...!

The experiences of life, whether they be every day events or terrifying ones, are powerless to seperate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Now that's Encouragement!

Dear God,

Thank You Lord for Your amazing Love. And Thnak You Lord for your WORD which directs our every step. Father God I Love You and Thank you and Praise You for Your Goodness and the Blessings You have given me and my family. I live to serve You Lord, and in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Monday, March 06, 2006

What's Important..?

Time with God is important. Time in Prayer is important. Time in the Word is important. Time in fellowship is important. Time in discipleship is important. Time with family is important.

Time is the common denominator. And how we spend our time on earth here and now is what we will be judged on in the here after.

I think the conversation with God could go something like this:

Sam, You lived 40 years on this earth. You accepted me as your Lord and Savior when you were 19. Then I didn't hear from you for a long time... What have you been doing for the past 20 years...? Then it will be turn to stammer and stumble and try to present my weak case as to why I should be allowed to spend eternity in heaven.

Honestly, I don't think I'm a 'bad' person. I don't kill or steal. But is my life lived to it's fullest potential for the kingdom...? Is God using me in a powerful way...? What am I doing with my time...?

This particular period of time in my life is undoubtedly the busiest I've ever experienced. And I believe it's the same for Monica. We've never had our plates more full.

Time is a precious currency. Once it's spent, it can not be recovered. We must spend our time wisely. We never know how much time we have left. I hope I live a whole lot longer. There's no reason to expect that I wouldn't. But anything is possible. And I want to mace my creator and be able to say with confidence:

Yes, Lord. Regarding my walk with you I faded early on. But I did make a remarkable comeback towards the end, didn't I...?

I do feel like I've wasted a lot of time. Time spent being selfish. Time spent in selfish pursuits that really haven't made a difference to the Kingdom. Well, I'm fully aware of what I need to do here on out. And I plan to spend the rest of my precious time making a difference in this world.

Dear Heavenly Father,

Lord, You are Timeless. But the clock is ticking on this earthly life. And I can't see the display of the minutes remaining. If I were coaching in a game I'd instruct my players to play hard until the end. Until the last second. Until the buzzer sounded.

Father God, I know that's how You want us to live: Giving our Best for Your Best. I haven't always done that. But I'm trying to do that now. And I just ask for Your Grace and Mercy regarding how I've lived my life up to this point. And I pray for Your strength and Your Guidence from this point forward.

I love You Lord. and I give my life to You for You You've done for me. I live to honor You, my King. And in Your Precious Son's Holy Name I Pray,

Amen.