Empowered Through Prayer: Speaking Life and Perseverance
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to exalt the name of the Lord, recognizing His worthiness and the power of His presence. We began by focusing on the importance of speaking life over our circumstances, marriages, and children, acknowledging that God is our source of strength, wisdom, and peace. We prayed for healing and restoration, believing in God's power to heal physical ailments and restore relationships.
We then transitioned to discussing the importance of intentionality in our walk with God, using the example of my daughter’s dedication to her cross-country practice despite the rain. This illustrated the need to persevere through life's storms, trusting that God is with us and will see us through.
We delved into the significance of prayer, emphasizing that it is essential for every believer. Prayer is our communication with God, and it should be both private and corporate. We explored the Lord's Prayer as a guide, highlighting the importance of worshiping God's holy names, surrendering to His will, making our requests known, and forgiving others.
We also discussed the necessity of spiritual warfare, praying for protection and deliverance from evil. The sermon concluded with a call to pray in all circumstances, whether in times of abundance or in times of trial, trusting that God is always faithful and present.
### Key Takeaways
1. Speak Life Over Your Circumstances: In moments of worship, we are encouraged to speak life over our lives, marriages, and children. This act of faith acknowledges God's power to bring peace, renewal, and strength into our situations. By turning our full attention to God, we invite His presence and guidance into every decision and action we take. [45:20]
2. Persevere Through Life's Storms: Just as my daughter persevered through her cross-country practice in the rain, we are called to run through the storms of life. God is with us in every trial, and our perseverance strengthens our faith. When we are anchored to the King of Kings, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that He will see us through. [52:11]
3. The Importance of Prayer: Prayer is essential for every believer. It is our communication with God and should be practiced both privately and corporately. The Lord's Prayer serves as a guide, teaching us to worship God's holy names, surrender to His will, make our requests known, and forgive others. This daily practice strengthens our relationship with God and aligns our hearts with His purposes. [59:21]
4. Forgiveness is Key: Forgiving those who have hurt us is crucial for our spiritual health. Unforgiveness imprisons us and leads to bitterness. By forgiving others, we release ourselves from this bondage and reflect the forgiveness we have received from God. Daily forgiveness is a vital part of our prayer life, allowing us to walk in freedom and peace. [01:23:35]
5. Engage in Spiritual Warfare: After aligning ourselves with God through worship, surrender, and forgiveness, we are called to engage in spiritual warfare. This involves praying for protection and deliverance from evil, interceding for our families, and standing against the forces of darkness. Spiritual warfare is a critical aspect of our prayer life, empowering us to fight for God's purposes in our lives and the world. [01:31:04]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[39:43] - Worship and Exaltation
[45:20] - Speaking Life Over Circumstances
[47:33] - Intentionality in Our Walk with God
[50:00] - Persevering Through Life's Storms
[52:11] - Running Through the Rain
[53:38] - Restoration and Healing
[54:57] - Understanding the Sermon on the Mount
[56:07] - The Living Word of God
[57:21] - The Importance of Prayer
[59:21] - Prayer as Communication with God
[01:01:27] - Who We Pray To
[01:03:00] - The Role of Jesus as Mediator
[01:09:09] - The Lord's Prayer as a Guide
[01:23:35] - The Necessity of Forgiveness
[01:31:04] - Engaging in Spiritual Warfare
[01:37:36] - Call to Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 6:5-15 (NKJV)
> "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. 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. 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. 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. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."
2. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NKJV)
> "Pray without ceasing."
3. Isaiah 49:16 (NKJV)
> "See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me."
### Observation Questions
1. What are the key elements of the Lord's Prayer as outlined in Matthew 6:9-13?
2. According to the sermon, why is it important to speak life over our circumstances, marriages, and children? ([45:20])
3. How did the pastor use his daughter's cross-country practice to illustrate perseverance through life's storms? ([52:11])
4. What does 1 Thessalonians 5:17 instruct believers to do, and how does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on prayer?
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the Lord's Prayer guide believers in their daily communication with God? ([59:21])
2. Why is forgiveness emphasized as a crucial part of our spiritual health and prayer life? ([01:23:35])
3. What does it mean to engage in spiritual warfare, and how can believers apply this in their daily lives? ([01:31:04])
4. How can the example of the pastor's daughter running in the rain inspire believers to persevere in their faith during difficult times? ([52:11])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent situation where you spoke negatively about your circumstances. How can you begin to speak life over similar situations in the future? ([45:20])
2. Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you apply the lesson of perseverance from the pastor’s daughter’s cross-country practice to this situation? ([52:11])
3. How can you incorporate the elements of the Lord's Prayer into your daily prayer routine to strengthen your relationship with God? ([59:21])
4. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What steps can you take this week to begin the process of forgiveness? ([01:23:35])
5. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to engage in spiritual warfare. What prayers or actions can you take to seek God's protection and deliverance? ([01:31:04])
6. How can you make prayer a more consistent part of your daily routine, following the instruction to "pray without ceasing"? ([01:00:44])
7. Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence during a storm in your life. How did that experience strengthen your faith, and how can you use it to encourage others? ([52:11])
Devotional
Day 1: Speak Life Over Your Circumstances
In moments of worship, we are encouraged to speak life over our lives, marriages, and children. This act of faith acknowledges God's power to bring peace, renewal, and strength into our situations. By turning our full attention to God, we invite His presence and guidance into every decision and action we take. Speaking life means declaring God's promises and truths over our circumstances, believing that His word has the power to transform and uplift.
When we speak life, we align our words with God's will, creating an atmosphere of faith and hope. This practice not only impacts our own hearts but also influences those around us. It is a powerful way to combat negativity and despair, replacing them with God's truth and love. As we consistently speak life, we build a foundation of faith that can withstand any challenge. [45:20]
Proverbs 18:21 (ESV): "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits."
Reflection: Think of a specific area in your life where you need to speak life. What are some positive, faith-filled declarations you can make today to invite God's presence and power into that situation?
Day 2: Persevere Through Life's Storms
Just as the pastor's daughter persevered through her cross-country practice in the rain, we are called to run through the storms of life. God is with us in every trial, and our perseverance strengthens our faith. When we are anchored to the King of Kings, we can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that He will see us through. Perseverance is not about avoiding difficulties but about trusting God to carry us through them.
Life's storms can be overwhelming, but they also provide opportunities for growth and deeper reliance on God. By persevering, we demonstrate our faith in God's promises and His ability to work all things for our good. Each trial we endure with faith builds our spiritual resilience and draws us closer to God. Remember, God never leaves us alone in our struggles; He is our ever-present help in times of need. [52:11]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How did you see God's presence and help during that time? What steps can you take to trust Him more in future storms?
Day 3: The Importance of Prayer
Prayer is essential for every believer. It is our communication with God and should be practiced both privately and corporately. The Lord's Prayer serves as a guide, teaching us to worship God's holy names, surrender to His will, make our requests known, and forgive others. This daily practice strengthens our relationship with God and aligns our hearts with His purposes. Prayer is not just about asking for things but about building a deep, intimate connection with our Creator.
Through prayer, we express our dependence on God and invite His guidance and intervention in our lives. It is a time to listen to His voice, seek His wisdom, and align our desires with His will. Consistent prayer transforms our hearts and minds, making us more attuned to God's presence and purposes. Whether in times of joy or trial, prayer is our lifeline to the Father, sustaining us and drawing us closer to Him. [59:21]
Matthew 6:6 (ESV): "But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you."
Reflection: Set aside a specific time today for private prayer. What are some things you need to surrender to God, and how can you incorporate the elements of the Lord's Prayer into your time with Him?
Day 4: Forgiveness is Key
Forgiving those who have hurt us is crucial for our spiritual health. Unforgiveness imprisons us and leads to bitterness. By forgiving others, we release ourselves from this bondage and reflect the forgiveness we have received from God. Daily forgiveness is a vital part of our prayer life, allowing us to walk in freedom and peace. Forgiveness is not about condoning wrong actions but about freeing our hearts from the burden of resentment.
When we forgive, we mirror God's grace and mercy, extending the same compassion we have received. This act of forgiveness brings healing to our souls and restores broken relationships. It is a powerful testimony of God's love and a step towards living in harmony with others. Embracing forgiveness as a daily practice helps us maintain a pure heart and a clear conscience before God. [01:23:35]
Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV): "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
Reflection: Think of someone you need to forgive. Can you ask God to help you begin to extend His love and forgiveness to them today?
Day 5: Engage in Spiritual Warfare
After aligning ourselves with God through worship, surrender, and forgiveness, we are called to engage in spiritual warfare. This involves praying for protection and deliverance from evil, interceding for our families, and standing against the forces of darkness. Spiritual warfare is a critical aspect of our prayer life, empowering us to fight for God's purposes in our lives and the world. It is about recognizing the spiritual battles we face and relying on God's strength to overcome them.
Engaging in spiritual warfare means being vigilant and proactive in our prayers, covering ourselves and our loved ones with God's protection. It also involves standing firm in our faith, resisting the enemy's schemes, and declaring God's victory over every situation. As we engage in spiritual warfare, we partner with God in advancing His kingdom and pushing back the darkness. [01:31:04]
Ephesians 6:12-13 (ESV): "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."
Reflection: Identify a specific area in your life or family where you sense a spiritual battle. How can you actively engage in spiritual warfare through prayer and the Word of God today?
Quotes
1. "When you are moored or anchored to the king of kings you will get through it so father I pray that you will get through it so father I pray if we're facing a storm right now we will run through the rain and at the end of it we will be stronger because you are with us and so father I pray once again the restoration in lives this morning restorations of marriages and relationships that have been broken father we pray healing the name of jesus father I pray right now for the awakening of the world and for the healing of the world and for the healing of the world and for the of callings that were dormant in jesus name father we pray for passion and desire and pursuit of you to grow father we thank you for your faithful and lord for as it says in the book of isaiah you have carved us in the palm of your hand" [53:38] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Reading the Word of God is not just for a pastor or someone called into ministry. Reading the Word of God is for all believers because it is the way that He explains or talks to us as we read Scripture. And the amazing thing, it's not a book that you just read. You just read once and never read it again. You read it over and over and over. And God can use the very same passage in a different way depending on the circumstance you're facing. And it's one of the ways that we can understand that the Word of God is living because it pierces and it talks to us." [56:07] (45 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Prayer is essential. Many times we buy into lies. And you can raise your hand with me if you've ever said this to yourself. Well, I just... I just don't know how to pray. I go to other people to pray with me because I don't know how to pray. I don't know what to say. I don't know if he hears me. I don't know what it is. Anybody ever thought that lie before? I don't know what to do. I don't know what to say. And prayer, this is what it is. It's communication with God." [59:21] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We pray to God. Jesus said it. When you pray, pray to your Father. When He gets to that part of the... He says that He knows, your Father knows what you need. Our Father who art in heaven. We are praying to God. Listen very, very clearly. I know some of us might be receiving an objection to this, but according to Scripture, and we stand on the Word of God, we pray to God. We do not pray to dead people. We do not pray to saints. We do not pray to idols. We don't pray to stuff. We pray exclusively to God through Jesus Christ." [01:01:27] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Forgive those who have hurt us or will hurt us and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. Verse 14. For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly father will forgive, also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your father forgive your trespasses. Church, as you and I pray, we need to repent and ask for forgiveness, but we need to ask God to help us forgive people. And we need to daily be forgiving people, forgiving people, forgiving people, forgiving people." [01:23:35] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "When Job had everything, he prayed. When Job had nothing, he prayed. Because prayer is not about your circumstance. It's about who God is. And as I was reading the book of Job this week in my daily Bible reading, we're like by Job chapter 22 right now. In chapter number one, Job had it all, didn't he? He was married, had seven kids, had oxen and donkeys and mules and everything he ever needed. And the Bible says that he would daily make prayers and sacrifices for his children. If they messed up, God, forgive them. And he's daily seeking after God." [01:34:05] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "So whether everything is good or everything has hit the fan, pray. our heavenly Father, father. He's got you. He's got me. I've been there. I've had those moments where I'm sitting there and I'm crying out. And I've had moments where God answered with what I wanted. And I've had moments where he didn't, but he's still good. And he's still God. And he's still on the throne. And your praise will ever be on my lips. And I will not stop praising you. So it doesn't matter what you're going through today. Pray and turn it over to him. Because he still heals. He still delivers. He still sets free. He's not stopping anytime soon." [01:36:08] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "And some of you, perhaps you walked in feeling, I'm not worthy. But you've been reminded this morning, Jesus paid the price and made us worthy. Some of us, it's just time to get straight into war and begin to fight for your marriage and begin to fight for your lives of your children and grandchildren and fight for that one that walked away and fight for that one that has been bondage right now. But Jesus is setting them free. Because prayer is essential." [01:37:36] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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