HOW DO WE PRAY?

How the Bible tells us to Pray

I am asked quite often how one can pray effectively. This article will show you the way the Word of God tells us to pray.

We are going to look at the Greek word pray (prayers, praying and prayed) proseuche and proseuchomai but only in the Mystery Epistles of Paul, Ephesians, Colossians and Philippians.

The Greek word proseuche appears in the New Testament 37 times in 37 verses and proseuchomai appears 90 times in 82 verses, this is quite an abundance of uses so I want to limit the study to just the three books of the Apostle Paul also know as the Prison Epistles.

We must first start our study with some Greek grammar lessons, very basic for now. When the words proseuche or proseuchomai are used as verbs, or as nouns the verbs that are used with them, are always in the present tense. The present tense represents a simple statement of fact or reality viewed as occurring in actual time and in most cases this correspond directly with the English present tense.

Another characteristic of these verbs are that they are in the middle voice. The middle voice indicates the subject performing an action upon himself (reflexive action) or for his own benefit. E.g., "The boy groomed himself." Many verbs which occur only in
middle voice forms are translated in English as having an active sense; these are called "deponent" verbs, and do not comply with the normal requirements for the middle voice.
A different way to look at “deponent verbs” is that they occur with passive or middle voice forms but with active voice meaning The Greek middle voice meaning is still applicable, action is done for ones own benefit, this is very apropos to prayer.

The third characteristic of these verbs is the mood. These verbs for the most part are in the participle mood. The Greek participle corresponds for the most part to the English participle, reflecting "-ing" or "-ed" being suffixed to the basic verb form. The participle can be used either like a verb or a noun, as in English, and thus is often termed a "verbal noun."

We must therefore conclude that even when the word prayer is used as a noun it is a verbal noun and indicates some action by the subject. This being said let us now take a look at the verses where these words are used and it will become clear as to how prayer is to be done.

Eph. 1:16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making (present tense, middle voice) mention of you in my prayers; proseuche (verbal noun).

Eph. 6:18 Praying proseuchomai (present tense, middle voice, participle mood) always with all prayer proseuche (verbal noun) and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

Phil. 1:9 And this I pray proseuchomai (present tense, middle voice, participle mood), that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment;

Phil. 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer proseuche (verbal noun) and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Col. 1:3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying proseuchomai (present tense, middle voice, participle mood), always for you,

Col. 1:9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard [it], do not cease to pray proseuchomai (present tense, middle voice, participle mood) for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

Col. 4:2 Continue proskartereo (present tense, middle voice, imperative mood) in prayer proseuche, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;

Here the mood of the verb “continue” changed from participle to imperative. The imperative mood corresponds to the English imperative, and expresses a command to the hearer to perform a certain action by the order and authority of the one commanding.

The Apostle by virtue of the God breathed Word is commanding the Colossians to actively pray with thanksgiving.

Col. 4:3 Withal praying proseuchomai (present tense, middle voice, participle mood), also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:

Col. 4:12 Epaphras, who is [one] of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers proseuche, (verbal noun) that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

Lastly I would like to share with you a verse that uses another Greek word, dessis for the English word prayer.

Phil. 1:19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer deesis, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

Dessis has its roots in the word deomai which is a verb and guess what the characteristics of this verb are; you got it, present tense, middle voice, participle mood. Is the Word of God incredible or what?

So when it comes to prayer and praying we see a theme; that is that pray is something we should do consistently and constantly.

Paul Griffitts a Bibical Researcher for over 30 years
Currently Paul is the Editor of The Good News Letter for Believer.com

PRAYER OF INTERCESSION - IS IT BIBLICAL

Prayers of intercession - Are there biblical examples?

Prayers of intercession are to be offered on behalf of other people - your friends, family, co-workers, and so on. Do those around you have needs, concerns, or health problems? If so, cry out to God on their behalf. The Bible gives us several examples of intercessory prayer. Here are a few:

One of the earliest examples of this type of prayer is found in Genesis 18 when Abraham pleaded with God for the well-being of the people of Sodom. Instead of being overcome with his own needs, Abraham prayed for those around him.

Moses is also known for interceding on behalf of others throughout his life. In fact, Pharaoh requested that Moses pray for him in Exodus 8:28, "Pharaoh said, 'I will let you go to offer sacrifices to the LORD your God in the desert, but you must not go very far. Now pray for me.'" Later in Exodus 15:25, Moses petitioned God on behalf of the Hebrew people: "Then Moses cried out to the LORD…" Moses prayed for others with urgency and boldness.

Several of Paul's prayers of intercession are recorded in the New Testament. In Philippians 1:9-11, Paul prayed for the believers: "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ - to the glory and praise of God."

The church prayed fervently for Peter while he was imprisoned. Acts 12:5 says, "So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him."

1 Timothy 2:1-5 exhorts us to pray for others: "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."

Jesus is the greatest intercessor of all time! Here are some of His prayers:

• Jesus prayed for Peter - Luke 22:32 says, "But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
• Jesus prayed for those who crucified Him. Luke 23:34 says, "Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.' And they divided up his clothes by casting lots."
• Jesus prayed for His disciples and for Believers throughout eternity in John 17.

Is it a sin not to pray for people? 1 Samuel 12:23 answers this question, "As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you. And I will teach you the way that is good and right."

Do you spend time praying for others? Prayers of intercession are powerful! The Bible records that weather changed, people were released from prison, enemies were defeated, and so much more - all as a result of intercessory prayer!

INTERCESSORY PRAYER WHAT IS IT

Intercessory Prayer - What is it?
Intercessory prayer is prayer for others. An intercessor is one who takes the place of another or pleads another's case. One study Bible defines intercession as "holy, believing, persevering prayer whereby someone pleads with God on behalf of another or others who desperately need God's intervention."
Intercessory Prayer - The Biblical Foundation
The Biblical basis for the New Testament believer's ministry of intercessory prayer is our calling as priests unto God. The Word of God declares that we are a holy priesthood (1 Peter 2:4), a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:8), and a kingdom of priests (Revelation 1:5).

The background for understanding this calling to priestly intercession is found in the Old Testament example of the Levitical priesthood. The priest's responsibility was to stand before and between. He stood before God to minister to Him with sacrifices and offerings. The priests also stood between a righteous God and sinful man bringing them together at the place of the blood sacrifice.

Hebrews 7:11-19 explains the difference between the Old and New Testament ministries of the priest. The Old Testament Levitical priesthood was passed on from generation to generation through the descendants of the tribe of Levi. "The Melchizedek priesthood" spoken of in this passage, is the "new order" of spiritual priests of whom the Lord Jesus is the High Priest. It is passed on to us through His blood and our spiritual birth as new creatures in Christ.
Intercessory Prayer - Our Model Intercessor
Jesus Christ is our model for intercessory prayer. Jesus stands before God and between Him and sinful man, just as the Old Testament priests did: For there is one God, and one mediator (intercessor) between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 2:5). It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us (Romans 8:34). Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them (Hebrews 7:25).

Jesus brings sinful man and a righteous God together at the place of the blood sacrifice for sin. No longer is the blood of animals necessary as it was in the Old Testament. We can now approach God on the basis of the blood of Jesus that was shed on the cross of Calvary for the remission of sins. Because of the blood of Jesus, we can approach God boldly without timidity (Hebrews 4:14-16).

Jesus was an intercessor while He was here on earth. He prayed for those who were sick and possessed by demons. He prayed for His disciples. He even prayed for you and me when He interceded for all those who would believe on Him. Jesus continued His ministry of intercession after His death and resurrection when He returned to Heaven. He now serves as our intercessor in Heaven.
Intercessory Prayer - Effective Intercession
In intercessory prayer, we follow the Old Testament priestly function and the New Testament pattern of Jesus - standing before God and between a righteous God and sinful man. In order to be effective standing "between" we must first stand "before" God to develop the intimacy necessary to fulfill this role. Numbers 14 is one of the greatest accounts of intercessory prayer recorded in the Bible. Moses was able to stand between God and sinful man because he had stood "before" Him and had developed intimacy of communication. Numbers 12:8 records that God spoke with Moses as friend to friend and not through visions and dreams as He did with other prophets.

As New Testament believers, we no longer sacrifice animals as in Old Testament times. We stand before the Lord to offer up spiritual sacrifices of praise (Hebrews 13:15) and the sacrifice of our own lives (Romans 12:1). It is on the basis of this intimate relationship with God that we can then stand "between" Him and others, serving as an advocate and intercessor in their behalf.

Peter uses two words to describe this priestly ministry: "Holy" and "royal." Holiness is required to stand before the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). We are able to do this only on the basis of the righteousness of Christ, not our own righteousness. Royalty is descriptive of the kingly authority that is delegated to us as members of the "royal family," so to speak, with legitimate access to the throne room of God.

GOD AND MONEY

Despite what many Christians or religious people believe about God and money, it is NOT the root of all evil. Neither is it good or bad, nor does it make a person good or bad.

Here are 3 important truths about God and money:

1. The “love of” money IS the root of all evil

Contrary to what many believe, money is NOT the root of all evil. What the Bible actually says is, “The love of money is the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). Those two little words, “love of” make a huge difference!

Loving money has to do with placing your trust in it. What you put your trust in is what you serve. Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters because either he will hate one and love the other, or be loyal to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). God is not willing to share you with the world. He said in Exodus 20:4,5: “I am a jealous God.”

2. Money answers all things (Ecclesiastes 10:19)

Obviously, everyone needs money; therefore, one must be careful of serving it! “Serving” money actually means letting it define who you ARE. Because having money provides options and control, it has the potential to give one a distorted image of oneself. The more options and control one has, the more freedom and comfort one can experience, and that’s the very reason for the potential to develop a twisted view. One should always remember, without God we can DO nothing, and we ARE nothing (John 15:5).

3. God and money are not enemies

When people think of the relationship between God and money, they typically believe that they are in direct opposition of each other. The facts are, God is the ultimate authority and creator of the entire universe while money is only a medium of exchange. That’s all money is and ever will be. Although it’s a critically component for quality of life, it’s still just a “thing,” and therefore; something no one should ever put their trust in!

The Apostle Paul tells people who are not rich in money to “Teach those who ARE rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others” (1 Timothy 6:17-18).

Conclusion

Jesus almost always used the topic of money as a metaphor for teaching about eternal life and the kingdom of heaven. Why? Because He knew money is vitally important and relevant in every country, culture, and household. It’s something everyone can relate to.

So, can God and money co-exist in peace, or does God hate money? God does NOT hate money! He just hates what it has the potential to do to people who’s heart is already far from Him. Money is neither good nor bad in itself. It’s simply a magnifier. It magnifies what people already are. If you’re a good person, you can probably be trusted to do good things with it. On the other hand, if you’re a bad person, it will make you worse.

Walking in the Anointing - You Can Too!

It's a subject on many people's minds but the anointing comes at a price. God doesn't just give His anointing away easily and when we have it God wants us to use it. The Anointing has increased in my life and so has the responsibility. Here is a simple article as to why God would increase your anointing.

I bought a book once by Benny Hinn on the Anointing and I bought it as I wanted to learn about it and have it in my life. I might not have been ready to receive the information and have since given the book away but when I read it, I didn't seem to learn anything.

I once heard a guy that come to a church I was attending and he talked about the anointing. He said something simple. He said:

The Anointing is simply: The Power to Do the Job

Now depending on how BIG the job you have to do is, that measures how much of the Holy Spirit's anointing is in your life. I have realized in the past three months the Anointing in my life has gone up.

Each week 2000 people read something I have written in the Internet on EzineArticles or somewhere else. There is an Anointing of the Holy Spirit on everything I write and there exists and Anointing in my life as I write the things that I write.

I also manage a team of prophetic people and we do free prophecies on the Internet. For a few years they came in at a rate of about twenty requests per week and now in the last three months that figure has shot up to forty five requests per week.

With this increase I have had to promote a team leader and mentor her to run a team of prophets like me to cater to this demand. In these three months I have noticed the Holy Spirit has increased my Anointing in my life.

I am finding people I know want to sit down and have a long chat with me in the past few months. As a prophet I am fairly intense and people kind of give me a wide birth and yet some of the people I have forged a relationship with are starting to want to spend quality time with me.

This is a sign to me that they really want to hear what the Holy Spirit wants to say through me. As now quite a lot these days in an hour conversation the Holy Spirit directs the conversation for me to say what God wants me to say to each person.

When you understand that the Anointing is the Power to Do the Job you have to decide to get busy for God for Him to increase the Anointing in your life. For God to increase His Anointing in your life there has to be a reason, so first of all if you want it to increase you need to decide what you want to do for God in a bigger way and go after it.

It's wonderful to have the presence of God and when you worship you can feel the presence of God. But it's quite another thing for the Anointing of God to come upon you when you are in a conversation and the person that is listening is so transfixed at what is being shared they simply can't leave until the message is shared in its entirety.

Now the Holy Spirit of God knows every persons timetable and if they have to really go and get back to work or if they can take and extra half an hour for lunch to listen. The Holy Spirit knows when that certain person who really needs to hear what He has to say through you is going to have the time and the Anointing will only drop on you the time that they need to stay.

I have heard people say the Anointing is addictive. Benny Hinn seems to talk about the Anointing a lot as I have heard him talk about it. It is simply the power of the Holy Spirit and it should be respected and not talked about in any cheap way. But I have heard on a few occasions people say the Anointing is addictive.

I can testify when I sit down to prophesy over a person that I really enjoy God speaking though me and I love the wonderful peaceful blanket that seems to come all over me.

But we all have the Holy Spirit and it is my aim to speak to you if you don't know much of the Power of God to get a bit of that into your life. If you want more of the Holy Spirit, why don't you get serious with God and ask Him what can you do for Him

I know that we need people to prophesy on our teams on my website and I know that we can pray for you to get the gift of prophecy. I know also that we need intercessors on our website that can pray over the prophecies that are done and if you are good in prayer, then we can use you.

But that's just me throwing a few ideas out there for you. I am sure if you put your mind to it you can come up with something to do for the body of Christ.

Just remember you have to get busy for God for Him to give you the Power.

It's no use having a Powerful car in a garage. It's no use God increasing the Power of His Anointing of His in your life if you are not going to do a job for Him.

Want a really big Anointing? Get a very BIG job to do for the Lord and He will give it to you!

I promise you

Love ya

Be blessed

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1986850

We May Be Guaranteed of This - The Secret of All Failure is Our Failure in Secret Prayer

"GOD Wondered." This is a very remarkable thought! The very idea ought to unquestionably catch the attention of every sincere Christian man, woman and child. A wondering God! Why, how astounded we should be if we knew what the cause of God's "wonder" was! Yet we don't give it a second thought and think of it to be, apparently, a very little thing. But if we stopped for a moment and were willing to consider the matter carefully, we would discover it to be one of the greatest if not the most important thought to every believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing else is so earth-shattering -- so vital -- to our spiritual welfare.

God "wondered that there was no intercessor" (Isaiah 59:16) -- 'none to interpose" (R.V., marg.). But this was in the days of long ago, before the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ "full of grace and truth" -- before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, full of grace and power, "helping our infirmity," "Himself making intercession for us" and in us (Romans. 8:26). Yes, way before the truly amazing promises of our Savior regarding prayer; even before people knew very much about prayer at all; this was in the days when sacrifices for their sins appeared larger in their eyes than supplication for other sinners.

Oh, just think how great must be God's "wonder" today! For there are only a few present among us who know what prevailing prayer really is and what it means! Every one of us would confess that we believe in prayer, but yet how many of us truly believe in the power of, prayer? Now, before we go a step farther, may I as the writer most earnestly plead with you not to read quickly what is contained in these articles? Much -- very much -- depends upon the way in which every reader receives what is written here. Because everything depends upon prayer.

Why are so many Christians living defeated lives today? Because they pray so little or not at all. Why are so many church-workers often discouraged and disheartened? Because they pray so little. Why do most pastors and missionaries see so few brought "out of darkness to light" by their ministry? Because they pray so little. Why are not our churches simply on fire for God? Because there is so little real prayer. Why is your business failing or not showing a profit? How often and fervent do you truly pray for your business?

The Lord Jesus is as powerful today as He was before and will be tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8). The Lord Jesus is as anxious for people to be saved as ever before. He wants us as His children to prosper both in ministry, business and life. He wants us to live the abundant life. His arm is not shortened that it cannot save us: but He cannot stretch out His arm unless we pray more -- and more honestly from the heart.

We may be guaranteed of this -- the secret of all failure is our failure in secret prayer.

If God "wondered" in the days of Isaiah, we need not be surprised to find that in the days of His flesh our Lord "marveled." He marveled at the unbelief of some -- unbelief which actually prevented Him from doing any mighty work in their cities (Mark 6:6). But we must remember that those who were guilty of this unbelief saw no beauty in Him that they should desire Him, or believe on Him. What then must His "marvel" be today, when He sees in the midst of us those who do truly love and adore Him, and so few who really "stir themselves up to take hold of God" (Isaiah 64:7).

The possibilities of prayer are gauged by faith in God’s ability to do. Faith is the one prime condition by which God works. Faith is the one prime condition by which a person prays. Faith draws on God to its full extent. Faith gives character to prayer. A feeble faith has always brought forth feeble praying. Vigorous faith creates vigorous praying. Christ asks this pointed question, “When the Son of Man cometh, shall He find faith on the earth?”

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/369876

Working The Wonders Of God - 2

Let me tell you some cold facts about the wonders of God. You have to understand that God doesn't do any of His wonders without using a man. We are never told that God came down at any time to perform any of the wonders or miracles, He always and will continue to find a man He can use to perform these signs and wonders. God is always looking for a man, the Bible says,

"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 not".

That can be found in the book of Ezekiel 22:30. What is written in Isaiah 59:16 is even more direct, "And He saw that that was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor; therefore His hand brought salvation unto Him: and His righteousness, it sustained Him".

When God wanted to preach the gospel of salvation to Cornelius and his household, though an Angel was sent to him, the angel could not preach the gospel, he only told Cornelius to get a man, Peter, to teach him the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The angel could have easily explain to him the gospel, but in this realm, God uses man to do His works like preaching, teaching, working of miracles, signs and wonders and so on. It is true that God rained down bread from heaven, but Moses was used to do this great miracle.

God cannot work except He uses a man to perform His works. What does this imply? It is very simple, God will always use a man to bless you, He will help you through a man, He will reach out to the world, bless the teaming population of the poor of the earth through an instrument called man, and that man can be you or me. He uses ordinary men like you and me, this is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. It doesn't matter how ordinary a man may be, if God has decided to use him, He gives him power, wisdom and grace to perform miracles, signs and wonders: not only that, He backs him up and supports him to do great things no one can ever believe he is ever capable of doing. Once you are chosen, you are instantly given the power to 'bind and loose'; the decreeing power. See Mathew 18:18,19.

Anyone that God will use must be a man of FAITH, for this is the only connection source recognized by heaven. Some of the people God uses to perform signs and wonders got involved with the supernatural through their personal interest, active participation in the things of God. When a man desire to be used by God to perform miracles because of the need to help solve human problems, such a man may be blessed and gifted to perform extra-ordinary miracles that will baffle the greatest critique. Sometimes God is the one who will so much endow a man to be so powerful to perform great feats that are beyond scientific explanations. Such a man may not even be interested in the things of God initially, he may not even know the scripture but when the deed is done and the call is manifested he or she will do well to get educated in biblical studies.

My purpose in writing this article is to help you see the fact that wonders of God are still real today, and that people are still enjoying God's supernatural intervention: that is not all, God is still using ordinary people like you to perform miracles. If I succeed in getting you to see this point, then you will come to a situation where you are ready either to accept and expect the gift of a miracle which may already be on your way. Or you may also be put in a position where you will be ready to allow God to use you to perform a miracle in the lives of people around the world. If the later is the case, then you should be acquainted with the following qualifications for working the wonders of God.

1. Your life must be completely dedicated to God. You must be ready to live a life of total submission to the will of God in all humility and meekness. You will put God first and His kingdom from now on because you will know that God is more than enough to supply all your needs. See Matthew 6:32-34.

2. Your life must be given over to the ministry of the WORD and PRAYER, see Acts 6:2-4. The WORD of God is the power of God, He couldn't do anything without His word, and since you want to work wonders and miracles which only God can perform, then you need His word with which He created the entire world. The word of God is the raw material for miracles, while prayer is the ability to communicate and get God's undivided attention and intervention on any matter. The result of prayer is the direct working of miracles and signs.

Through the instrumentality of prayer, Hannah was blessed with Samuel, one of the greatest prophets of all time. See 1Samuel 1:10-17. Jabez's life and destiny was changed because he prayed to God 1Chronicles 4:9,10. Hezekiah's days on earth were prolonged because he dared to pray. Which miracle is greater than eliminating death and getting healed of a disease that was sure to consume a man? Prayer is so powerful and important that even dry bones in the valley received new flesh, sinews, tissues and life because a man of God just spoke words of faith to them see Ezekiel 37:1-13. No matter what you are facing now, there is a miracle in store for you, I only need you to believe this write up and you can experience a miracle right away.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4212295

What Does Your Name Say About You?

Are you happy with the name your parent/s chose for you? I imagine that most of us are satisfied with the name we're stuck with. You may be proud of the fact that your father named you after an illustrious grandparent, saint or famous artist. You may have been given a carefully sought out name representing an attribute such as courage, character, friend of God, steadfastness, etc.

My childhood name was a shortened version of one of my Christian names. I never felt it suited me and disliked it. Out of curiosity I just researched it for this article, only to discover that it has no meaning whatsoever!

I registered as Ann when I entered High School. I chose it by impulse. I didn't pre-think it, had never considered it before; it just came out! It was similar to the other one but I felt it had character.

It was some time before I discovered that names had meanings, and Ann means grace. I was happy; it sounded good, even though no dictionary could quite define it in a way I could understand. Many years later when I came to know the Lord I finally understood that grace is God's unmerited favor purchased for me on the cross. Now every time my name is called I am reminded of what Jesus has done for me!

Over the centuries in many cultures a person's name denoted what he did for a living or a character trait. You know how Abraham got his name changed. Can you imagine how every time he was called: "father of many nations," his faith was stirred up? It kept on confirming the prophecy God had given him until it came to pass!

Then there was Jacob, who wrestled with an angel of the Lord. How do you suppose he must have felt when he told Him his name was: "inheritance stealer, trickster deceiver?" But, because he had persevered, God gave him a new name: "Prince; because now he had power with God and men." (Gen. 32: 28)

I love the story of Gideon. Although he was the least in his family and very fearful, in hiding from the Midianites, an angel called him: "mighty man of valor." God does not look on the actual circumstances. He named Gideon because He knew his heart. God knew that Gideon's faith would be buoyed up this new name and he would obey His instructions to bring about the victory for Israel over the Midianites. (Judges 6 - 8)

Therefore, it is not about what name you were born with or gave yourself, but by what name does the Lord call you? Does He call you Blessed, Redeemed, Healed, Testimony to My Name, Intercessor, Encourager, Faithful, Full of Faith, Full of Grace or Beloved?

Listen carefully and develop that intimate relationship which the God of the universe craves to have with you. He has given you a new name that you may, like Gideon, be incredulous about. He is calling you softly, always urging you on to victory, and:

"will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name... I have surnamed thee...I am the Lord and there is none else. (Isa. 45: 3 - 6)

Ann is the author of "With Wings as Eagles," an inspirational and encouraging testimonial of how we can overcome terrible circumstances in our lives.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ann_Stewart

How to Overcome the Flesh to Fulfill Your Divine Destiny

Christians have struggled with the flesh since the early apostles walked the dusty roads of Jerusalem, hence the Bible states, "The spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41b KJV). How do you overcome the flesh to fulfill your divine destiny, the destiny especially designed for you by God? Can you overcome the works of the flesh in your own strength? Not hardly. But before you role up your spiritual sleeves to tackle this task of overcoming the flesh to fulfill your divine destiny, let's first define what the flesh is. The following fictitious story gives you an illustrative definition of your enemy, the flesh.

John was cruising in his Corvette convertible along the California coastline enjoying the sunset as seagulls darted and glided over breaking waves when he glanced in his rearview mirror and saw him. A man in an older Mercedes was tailgating him. John wouldn't pull over to the right lane, it was under construction, nor would he speed up and risk getting a ticket, even though the road construction would make it almost impossible for a policeman to give him a ticket. But he wasn't going to take any chances and this aggressive driver would just have to back off or go around. However, he didn't back off or go around, but continued to tailgate John.

"What's his problem?" thought John.

There was no reason for him not to go around John because there were no oncoming cars in view. But the man continued to tailgate and began blowing his horn. This was John's day off and he was not going to let this obnoxious driver ruin his day. Surely he would give up and go around, but instead he began to tailgate John even closer, still blaring his horn.

"Idiot! Back off!" screamed John.

Finally, the antagonist gunned his engine and proceeded to go around. John got ready to really let him have it when suddenly three words flashed across his mind, "love and forgive." He had heard that voice before and knew to love and forgive this man would be the right thing to do, but it wasn't going to happen. With great fury, John verbally blasted the insolent driver as the man drove past and sped away, exhaust fumes trailing.

John turned his attention back to the coastline with its sea birds, breaking waves and sunset, but it just wasn't the same. The End

That, my friend, is the flesh, John's carnal desires expressed contrary to the will of God. Now that you have some understanding of what the flesh is, let's see how you can overcome the flesh to fulfill your God designed destiny.

To overcome the flesh (Galatians 5:16-21), you will need something very powerful, supernatural. You will need the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 8:26-27 says:

"Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities (weaknesses): for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God"

What is this scripture talking about? It is talking about you praying in tongues and allowing the Holy Spirit to pray the perfect prayer through you to your Heavenly Father. What is the perfect prayer the Holy Spirit prays for you? He prays for any weaknesses you might have which would hinder God's perfect will for your life. This Holy Spirit intercession helps you to overcome the works of the flesh so you can fulfill the divine destiny God has ordained for your life.

How often should you pray in tongues? As often as you like. The more the better. Remember, you are praying in tongues to overcome the works of the flesh. How soon do you want results? The more you pray in tongues, the quicker the results. I suggest praying in tongues at least an hour a day. If that seems too overwhelming, then start out with fifteen minutes a day and build up to at least an hour. You will be rewarded for your efforts.

You can set aside a block of time to privately pray in tongues and or pray in tongues during your daily activities while you get ready for work or school, walking or driving to work or school or an event or while reading the Bible, another book or magazine, watching television, listening to music or whatever. Just use wisdom when you are praying in tongues in public, you don't want people to think you are crazy! You can pray in tongues quietly, hardly moving your lips and no one has to know you are praying in tongues. There is no excuse for not praying in tongues during some time of the day if you have the ability to speak.

Jude 20,21 says you build yourself up on your most holy faith and keep yourself in the love of God when you pray in tongues. So praying in tongues can be spiritually edifying to you.

The Holy Spirit in you is the Spirit of Revelation, your Comforter, Counselor, and Intercessor among other things. Develop your relationship with Him. Talk to Him. Get quite before Him. Let Him reveal to you the Lord Jesus Christ.

Well, hopefully this article has revealed to you the value of praying in tongues so you can overcome the flesh and unlock God's perfect plan for you, your divine destiny ordained by God. But what is your divine destiny? It is the assignment God has blessed you with to allow you to advance His kingdom. This assignment will include a revelation of your divine inheritance and who you are in Christ. To advance His kingdom involves you growing up into the fullness of Christ as His disciple and submitting your will to God, loving Him more than life, forsaking all (dead to the world, dead to the love of money and dead to the love of things so He can trust you to be a great spiritual, financial and material distribution center with a divine purpose) and continuing in study, meditation, and obedience to His Word.

Is it difficult, if not impossible to fulfill your divine destiny? Yes, if you try to do it in your own strength, but with God's grace you and can do all things through Christ which strengthens you. What is God's grace? It is His willingness to release His power and ability on your behalf. It is His unmerited favor given to you because of the finished work of Jesus Christ on the Cross.

Remember to always walk in love and forgiveness towards everyone, always obeying God's Word so you don't hinder His perfect will for your life. But if you don't read His Word how will you know what to obey? Please read His Word daily so you will know what to obey, thus fulfilling His will for your life.

Want a free ebook that will teach you more on how to fulfill your divine destiny? Click on "Free Ebook" below.

Not Rich? God wants you rich for a purpose. Click on "God Wants You Rich" in resource box below.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3455797

Without the Pain, There Won't Be the Gain

Some of you who have read my recent articles know that my husband and I are losing our house due to a partition act by a woman who won everything but has passed away this summer and will never live to celebrate her selfish act. And stranger still was the death of the magistrate who awarded it all to her. I believe without a shadow of a doubt that God separated the chaff from the wheat as He promised He would but that doesn't leave my husband and I off the hook. We still have to move. On top of all this, he was recently laid off again after being told this company never lays off. If we've ever had to trust in God it is now. He will have to make a way where there seems to be none. It has taken both of us some time to get over the idea that God lets the wicked prosper and those who serve Him get abandoned. But this simply isn't the truth. This whole ordeal has brought me to a deeper understanding of just how much my Father in heaven loves me. This is not a punishment, but rather His choice to discipline us for our own good. Through the pain of this, I am stronger for it because I have everything to gain in the end.

In this life, everyone has one of two choices to make. They are either to be friend to God or to be His foe. No one has the choice of serving themself. We can serve God or we can serve our adversary, Satan. To serve Satan is to live a life with no purpose, thus the "rat race" that people run. This is a race that will only result in disaster and finally death. But a child of God's chooses to run a different race. It's called the "race of faith". This race can be long, hard, difficult and instill pain, but in the end, it will be well worth it. We are running towards a purpose and a goal. This will be for His glory and an everlasting life with Him. For no other reason, my race of faith will prevail.

Since I am a child of the Most High God, Satan is always nipping at my heels. I understand his mission is to trip me up and utterly destroy me in this life by sin. But, I refuse to allow myself the entanglement of his snares. Naturally my race will be difficult and long. So will yours if you have said "yes" to God and "no" to the devil.

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1,2

This reminds me, who am I to expect a life free from pain and suffering? My Lord Jesus endured probably the most painful and humiliating death ever experienced in human history. He authored my faith and chose to die in my place and yours if you have accepted this most precious gift. I can't imagine a greater love than this. An innocent man, the Son of God was nailed to a tree and felt every surge of pain as mockers below triumphed in His agonizing death. He felt the humiliation of hanging there stripped of His clothes for all to see. But as much as He despised His shame, He had the joy of knowing He was saving us from our own eternal deaths, as long as we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. My pain is nothing compared to His.

I now see my race as one of endurance as I make my way up the mountain side. It is a long, hard journey, but one that I am determined to complete. This climb is bringing me closer to my destination and understanding God's great, unfailing love for me. The other day as I prayed for the strength to keep my heels dug in so as not to slip, the Holy Spirit reminded me of something that made me shout for joy. "At least you're not going around in circles at the bottom anymore." I am on my way upward! My faith is carrying me to victory in Jesus. This knowledge is well worth the effort.

Do I blame Satan for every hard step? No, he doesn't own me, in fact he can't touch me. As I stated earlier, I have a purpose for which I strive. Satan can no longer deceive me, how about you?

"My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor faint when you are reproved by Him; for those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges every son whom He receives." Hebrews 12:5

This is wonderful news. It means He loves me and has His eyes on me. Just as any father, He wants only the best for all His children. Disciplining our children usually hurts the parent more. I remember a time (only once) when I disobeyed my parents and caused them to panic of my whereabouts. I knew I was ok, but they didn't. I gave my dad no other choice than to deal with me so that I would learn a lesson. I'll never forget him saying, "This is going to hurt me more than it will you." At the time it didn't make much sense, but later as I raised my own two sons, I understood this concept. As a result I can understand why God reproves us as well. If parents didn't correct their children, they wouldn't love them very much. In fact God's Word expains it this way;

"It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons." Hebrews 12:7,8

So now as I look back on my own father's words, I realize just how blessed I was to have this kind of love and how blessed I am today to understand how much more my heavenly Father loves me! I am His.

Does this make my painful circumstances any less painful? Actually no, it still hurts, but one thing I do know for certain, I will overcome this one day. I will get the victory because I do have peace. God has been training me for such a time as this. This peace is the fruit of righteousness that allows me to walk in my Father's sight. I am determined to run with steadiness in my pace. He has promised that my feet will not slip in the process.

"All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness." Hebrews 12:11

If your life is a rat race running in no particular direction, stop where you are and tell God you want His direction for your life. This means you must ask His forgiveness for your sins against Him. Tell Him you are sorry for disobeying Him and allowing Satan to separate you from His love. If you belive in your heart that Christ died for you and now sits in heaven as your intercessor, then tell Him you want Him as your Savior and Lord over your life. If you have said this and meant it,
tell Him "thank You" for receiving you as His child. Now, imagine the celebration in heaven over another soul set free! Welcome into the family of God. It is a great idea to share your good news with a Christian friend who can direct you in the next steps in order to keep growing.

Without the pain in life, there won't be the gain of everlasting life in Christ.

Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible

Vivian Gordon writes articles pertaining to God's instructions and the examples He has given us in order to grow on this Christian walk with Him. She hopes that they can inspire the Christian to grow spiritualy and maturely in their lives.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/821648

Praying Through Disasters

"Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills his purposes for me" Psalm 57:1-2

Every day when we listen to the news we hear of disasters. They seem to be happening more frequently, and at times seem closer to home. Most of us have not been through a major disaster. But there are smaller crises that can affect us personally and are within our extended families, or within our city or nation. In these days we are even more aware of international and world problems such as global warming and terrorism. We were recently with a friend who works internationally informing people of the crisis of AIDs all around the world. The crisis is critical. As intercessors we must learn how to respond in prayer and in action when we hear of disasters and major crises in the world. We must be God's watchmen in prayer and learn to find God as our refuge personally in hard times.

My husband, Norm, and I have traveled to over sixty countries. We have been in cities just like yours that later had a major, life-changing disaster. We were once in the beautiful city of Kobe, Japan that later was devastated by a large earthquake. We were in Rabau, Papua New Guinea that later was destroyed by a volcano. Now in Rabau, the entire city was prepared. Scientists were monitoring the movement of the earth in that area. They had a planned out method of escape for if and when the eruption would occur. They practiced and were ready. When the real thing happened, they all escaped unharmed.

We were later in Indonesia and Thailand where a few years ago a tsunami destroyed many cities and villages, killing thousands. This was unexpected, and nobody was ready for the magnitude of that disaster. Within our own cities, we hear of shopping mall shootings and neighborhood robberies. The truth is that not one of us is immune to the possibility of a disaster happening right where we live. Let's learn to be alert watchmen who know how to pray now for our cities.

As we do, it's important for us to realize that we don't have to fear because of what is happening in the world. God does not want us to be shaken by the nightly news. The Bible says repeatedly that God is our refuge. The word refuge in Webster's Dictionary means "that which shelters or protects from danger, distress or calamity, a stronghold which protects by its strength or a sanctuary which secures safety by its sacredness, any place inaccessible to an enemy." God wants us to depend on Him as our refuge. He wants us to hide in His closeness. He wants to be our strong place of refuge. It's His design that we need a safe place of refuge. He knows that we need to feel secure and safe. He was David's strong refuge in times of danger (Psalm 71:7; 73:28). David knew how to hide in God's presence. That's what He wants us to do. Picture a baby bird hiding under its parent's feathers. Psalm 57:1 is the picture of us sheltered under the shadow of God's wings. As you read Psalm 46, can't you begin to experience the comfort of what David is saying?

Psalm 46 - A Psalm of Comfort

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. Selah. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah. Come and see the works of the Lord, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.' The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah.

Psalm 46 is a great Psalm for all those who need a refuge. It is written in the context of a big underwater earthquake or nuclear explosion. It shows us that we do not need to be afraid of natural disasters. Isn't there times where you feel the pressure of what is happening on earth? I know I do. But God is our present help even in these times of great trouble. He's not far away but right there with us (v. 1). Even a major disaster does not have to make us afraid. The center of security for all of us needs to be God's presence. Even though the nations are in an uproar, we can feel secure because God is our refuge (v. 6-7).

The Psalm says that God brings desolation. He makes wars to cease, he breaks the bow, and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire (v. 8, 9). God does bring an end to injustice and pain. He brings healing and salvation to our needy world. Psalm 46 ends by saying, "'Be still, and know that I am God, I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.' The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress" (v. 10-11). God wants us to be still and know that He is God. He is in control. His presence is with us.

In light of all of this end-times turbulence, how can we prepare and pray through the disasters in the world? How can we help disaster victims through our prayers and our lives? In looking closer to home, how can we ourselves learn to trust God as our refuge during times of disaster? We read in Psalm 5:11-12, "But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them that those who love your name may rejoice in you. For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield." Let's practice the following:

How to Prepare and Pray Through Disasters

* Be grateful and thankful for your life and what you have - Learn to be extremely thankful every day. You don't know what a day may bring forth. Appreciate life.

* Prepare the church in your city for whatever may come - I live in a city that has hurricane threats six months out of the year. In Virginia Beach, this last fall many came together for several days from 3-6 A.M. to pray for safety for our area. Every city needs to prepare for possible disasters just as they did in Rabau, Papua New Guinea.

* Face disasters victoriously - Don't be overwhelmed or lose your faith in God if a disaster hits your city. Realize that God is greater than any disaster, and He will work it out for good. Pray this for disaster victims.

* Share the love of Christ with disaster victims by meeting their needs - When we had a hurricane in our city, we helped serve food through the Salvation Army. It was a great way to share the love of Christ.

* Trust God in the midst of disasters - This is the time for the church to arise and shine. This is a time to show others the peace of God through our lives by living out Psalm 46. Pray this for churches facing disasters.

* Grow deeper in your relationship with God now - Strengthen your prayer life and learn to be still, cultivating God's presence in your life daily. Pray Psalm 46 for your life and others in your city or in disaster areas.

* Learn to be still - Study Psalm 46 and when it says "selah", stop and think about what God is saying.

* Show forth godliness instead of evil - Be careful to live a godly life. What is inside will come out. In our neighborhood a few days after a hurricane, people began to get impatient and irritable. May the people of God shine His light even in the darkest of times.

* Live and prepare for the eternal - Learn to live for what is really important, which is not earthly possessions but eternal life. Narrow down your possessions, and learn to give things away.

* Pray for the salvation of souls and share our faith - During disasters and times of difficulties, people are open to the Gospel. They need hope, and you have the hope of eternal life. God is the refuge that everyone needs.

Don't wait for a disaster to apply these truths. God wants each of us to stand strong now. He wants us to live for eternity and pray for the lost now. None of us is outside of the reach of a disaster. We all need to live passionate lives, preparing for our eternal home. Jesus deserves our lives now. Let's live 100% for Him, grow in knowing Him as our refuge, and learn to be still. Let's learn to hide in His presence on a daily basis. When we hear about another disaster on the news, let's pray fervently for those victims. Let's not fear disaster but be confident in the Lord. He is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.

"Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your feet from being snared" Proverbs 3:25-26

It's time to arise in prayer!

The book, Intercessors Arise: Personal Prayer that Changes the World is an invaluable resource and learning tool that will enhance your personal prayer life a well as hold beneficial instruction for small-group settings and classroom courses. These 33 motivational teachings will help you release your potential in prayer through practical and personal application steps.

Article by Debbie Przybylski

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1219493

SPIRITUAL WARFARE: Let's Get Ready to Rumble!

The Bible implies, over and over, that Jesus came as an example. Do you agree with that? Take a look:

(1 Peter 2:21 KJV)
(21) For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an EXAMPLE, that ye should follow his steps:

(1 John 2:6 KJV)
(6) He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even AS HE WALKED.

(Ephesians 5:1-2 KJV)
(1) Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; (2) And walk in love, AS CHRIST also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.

(Philippians 2:5-8 KJV)
(5) Let this mind be in you, which WAS ALSO IN Christ Jesus: (6) Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: (7) But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: (8) And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

(Mark 10:43-45 KJV)
(43) But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: (44) And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. (45) For EVEN THE SON OF MAN came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

(John 13:14-15 KJV)
(14) If I then, {your} Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. (15) For I have given you AN EXAMPLE, that ye should do as I have done to you.

(John 13:34 KJV)
(34) A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; AS I HAVE loved you, that ye also love one another.

(1 John 3:16 KJV)
(16) Hereby perceive we the love {of God}, BECAUSE he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

(Romans 15:5-7 KJV)
(5) Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: (6) That ye may with one mind {and} one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (7) Wherefore receive ye one another, AS CHRIST ALSO received us to the glory of God.

(Colossians 3:13 KJV)
(13) Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: EVEN AS Christ forgave you, so also {do} ye.

(Hebrews 12:2-3 KJV)
(2) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of {our} faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (3) For CONSIDER HIM that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

As we study all these verses, we see something glaringly obvious: We are ALL to be examples of those who come after us in the faith. Jesus commanded us to go and make disciples. In other words, set an example for those who choose to follow Him.

In order for any organization to grow effectively, all methods MUST remain duplicatable. If Jesus had done one single thing that the rest of us who choose to follow Him could not (include ascending to the Father), then He would hardly be considered the “first fruits” that He is. In other words, what apple seed that would bring forth a peach could still be considered the seed of an apple? Jesus was the first of many to follow.

Where spiritual warfare is concerned, we can learn much from Christ’s example that can ultimately spare us a great deal of agony. First, regardless of what we’ve read or been taught (if we’ve been taught anything at all on the subject), we must ask ourselves “What DID Jesus Do?”in regard to Spiritual warfare. This is important because, after all, we are spirit-beings involved in n earthly experience. we know that God is Spirit and that there are evil spirits as well.

Notice that’s What DID Jesus Do...WDJD, not WWJD. He never took authority over a territorial spirit that had been given the RIGHT to be there. No, instead, He ministered lovingly on an INDIVIDUAL basis, one person at a time. He spoke the truth in love. He gave them His time (3 years in the case of His disciples). He showed them a way where there had previously been none.

We can do that, too! In recent years, as Pentecostalism has grown and become a part of virtually every other denomination, the Church has suffered many needless casualties of Spiritual Warfare as we stepped out to do battle with principalities and powers over entire regions - just as our leaders taught us - never once asking the question, “Did Jesus teach this?”

The answer is “NO! He did NOT teach this. The resulting agony and suffering of God’s well-meaning children across the planet has been widespread. From church-splits (about 3800 annually n the USA alone) to divorce (about half our Christian marriages) to sickness (the number one request for prayer from God’s people in any altar call anywhere), in many cases our intercessors have been trained to kick a hornet’s nest that they could not handle.

In my own experience as an intercessor, disease, divorce, miscarriages and many other maladies were commonplace – even in my very own life. We attacked Hell with a squirt gun... and we were burned beyond recognition.

Surely THIS can not be the army of the Lord! The church I attended in the 90s was intimately involved in what I call “The Battle of Caelum Moor” (ask for the article by that name).Though the Stonehenge-style sculpture park of 22-pieces, weighing a total of 540 tons, WAS dismantled as a result of our protests, the devastation among those who fought that battle was, in my view, completely unnecessary.

God’s gifts are without repentance. Our adversary STILL has all the power and prestige he was ever given only he has it down here as a terrestrial rather than as a celestial. Jesus referred to him as “Prince of this world three times, having made 25 references to Satan in all. He roams about the Earth looking for those He can easily devour. For example, any Christian hidden with Christ who sticks his head out of his foxhole to stick his tongue out, or who chooses to walk outside the safety of God’s covering. The archangel Michael, one of Lucifer’s only two scriptural peers (the other being Gabriel), once said to him, “The LORD rebuke you!” We see in the book of Daniel an occasion where Michael FINALLY responded to Daniel’s prayer after 20-some days , having been detained in battle with the Prince of Persia. This was, no doubt, a demonic spirit set in place by Lucifer himself to govern that region. He’s STILL there, incidentally, as the region once referred to as Persia is now Iraq and Iran.

2 Chronicles 7:14 declares - “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; THEN will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”

"THEN?" You mean, Lord, if we pray and seek your face - a relationship with you - and turn from our wicked ways (repent)...if we do all that stuff, THEN you will hear from Heaven, forgive our sin and heal our land? In other words, where spiritual warfare is concerned, we must get right with God as individuals through Jesus Christ, share that Truth with others every chance we get, and repent of our sins (Greek metanoia means to change our minds). THEN God HIMSELF will do battle with these demonic principalities that are ruling all over planet Earth.

Here’s a great example: Let’s say there’s a crack house somewhere in your neighborhood. Every sin imaginable has taken place within its dilapidated walls. Even local law enforcement can attest to the criminal history of the place. It’s been there 100 years and the demons that have taken up residence believe they have every right to be there.

Fact is, they DO! Do Christians gather together and wage warfare through prayer AGAINST those spirits, calling upon the names of the unclean Spirits of Debauchery, Addiction, Lust, Perversion, Pornography, Whoredom - even Religion, or do we take the time to devise a strategy to minister to its residents by feeding them, clothing them, praying with them, listening to them, giving them rides to the doctor, visiting them in jail if they get arrested, etc.? One method is easier but may result in a demonic backlash that will leave your head spinning; the other, though it may be a thankless and even difficult job, may lead a person to salvation and even deliverance through Christ and give them an example to live by and share with others that they may never forget. One such dwelling exists in my own neighborhood and, though one of its residents eventually turned on me, several others still talk with me whenever I see them around town as if we were old friends.

A lady in Dallas once told me that she wasn’t sure she had ever met a Christian. I’ve heard it said that modern Christianity is the #1 cause of atheism. A Jewish rabbi once said that many Jews WANT to believe Jesus was the Messiah, but His own followers do not act as if He really is the Lord. So, they wait for another. They’ll know we’re Christians by our love for one another. They’ll want what we say we’ve found when they experience God’s grace and unconditional love through us.

We may not want to be a spiritual warrior. Sorry. If you’re a Christian, you’re in the battle from the first day you enlist. If you’ve never received training or you’ve been improperly trained, improving your training is your only option.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pastor Michael is founder of t.e.a.m. ministries (team1min@aol.com). His eMail broadcasts, known as "Your Town for Jesus" (SEARCH it!) are reaching tens of thousands WEEKLY. Log on at [http://www.planetaryministry.org]

Michael's mission is to bring Discipleship and Encouragement to the Body of Christ. Michael is the author of numerous booklets on a subjects that will interest the thinking Christian. Since 1999, he has written and broadcast hundreds of inspirational articles and a dozen booklets, all designed to accelerate the process of spiritual development in God's people.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Tummillo

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/83144

INTRODUCTION

Intercessory Prayer Partners International is a Christian's International and interdenominational intercessory prayer Movement the vision was made known in 2010 through a dream by the Spirit of the Lord. I was directed to employ it in assisting like minded Christians to help one another in prayer as was in the scripture thus: Ezekiel 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" (.This scripture was given to me 10 years before now) This is an intercessory prayer arm of DMI.

THE MISSION: To stand in the gap before God for the land and his people (Ezekiel.22:30)
THE VISION: To intercede for the need and wants of Christians around the world.
THE AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF IPPI
1. To intercede for one another
2. To encourage one another through revelation
3. To give one another prayer points through revelation/inpiration
4. To intercede for backsliding Christians
5. To intercede for the worldly churches
6. To intercede for unbeliever in the world
7. To intercede for peace to reign in the world

MEMBERSHIP IS OPEN TO MINISTERS AND CHRISTIANS WHO MEET THESE 16 REQUIREMENTS. Please read them carefully.
1. Would be members must be born again for at least 5 years past.-John: 3:3, 5. Phi.2:12
2. Would be members must not be a present member of any occult society. Deut.18:10-12, Exodus. 20:3-5, Psl.97:7, Heb.1:6
3. Would be members must have been baptized by immersion - Mark 16:16
4. Would be members must be attending his or her local church on regular basis. Act - 11:26, Rom 16:1
5. Would be members must be a worker in his or her church. 1Cor. 12:28, 14:4
6. Would be members must be employed, self employed, genuine business men, women or students that are not in cult. Job applicants are welcome as long as they meet the ministry's 16 requirements1Tim.4:11, 2Thes.3:10,
7. Married couple must be in mutual love with his or her spouse -Eph.5:33, 1Pet.3:7
8. Yet to marry brethren must not have or having sexual intercourse with the opposite sex. Rom.8:7,
9. Would be members must not wear the cloth or hair of the opposite sex either as uniform, in his or her house  or to church.1Cor.11:4, Deut.22:, Deut.18:12
10. Would be member must be someone who obeys his or her parents. Exod.20:12 Mat.15:4, Eph.6:2
11. Would be members must be somebody who is cautious of speaking in the public. Eph.4:31, 1Tim 4:2
12. Would be members must have been baptized in the Holy Spirit - Act 1:5, Rom 8:14
13. Would be members must exhibit the fruit of the Holy Spirit.Gal.5:22-23, 1Cor.13:7
14. Would be members must follow peace with all men and holiness. Heb 12:14, Psalm 34:14
15. Would be members must be ready to make heaven. Matt.3:2, 7:21, Rev. 21:27.
16. Would be members must want to or be an INTERCESSOR. Isaiah 59:16

HOW TO JOIN:
1. Nigerian Christians: (you can also pay online)
Pay the sum of NGN100.00 or as you wish to the account numbers below. Lere Paul Adiatu. GTbank. Account No: 0016539281. OR
First Bank account No: 2007639445. Acct. name: Lere Paul Adiatu
2. Other Christians arround the world:
Pay online: The sum of $1.00 or as you wish to any one of these:
a. Liberty reserve: Account name: Lere P. Adiatu, Account no:U7216185
b. Alertpay: e-mail: lereventures@gmail.com

SEND THESE 14 INFORMATIOM TO: ippionline@gmail.com
1. Your Real name
2. Your location
3. Your date of birth
4. Your denomination
5. Your Status  (married, single or divorce)
6. Your profession
7. Your hobby
8. Your active e-mail. Do you intend to make it visible to the intercessor?
9. The date or year that you were born again
10. Your present work in your local church
11. Your highest Academic and or Spiritual qualification
12. Do you meet the 16 requirements? Do not tell lies.
13. Your 3 vital prayer request. This will not be visible to all the intercessor.

IPPI MODES OF OPERATION
1. The founder / International Coordinator is Prophet Dr. Paul Lere Adiatu. He will be sending general prayer request to every member (Intercessor) once a month or as when necessary to their e-mails. The prayer point will be about the members, the church, the world, the unbeliever and the backsliding Christians
2. When any new member joins, his or her 3 prayer points request will be sent to the 3 previous intercessor whose prayer has been acted upon
3. These 3 intercessors with the international coordinator will prayer on the request for 3 nights and at least 30 minutes.
4. Whatever revelation seen by the intercessors shall be relayed to the new member through the international coordinator
5. After the first prayer request any intercessor is at liberty to send their prayer request to the movement through the international coordinator.
6. The names of members shall be updated at the movement's official free blog.
7. All member is free to comment on the blog
8. All member are free to post article and pictures on the blog,. This will be sent to the international coordinator for screening. Your name and picture can appear by your articles provided that the picture is not immoral and offensive to the opposite sex. Any immoral picture will be rejected and the article discarded.
9. The financial obligation of the movement is supplied freely by Christians around the world. You too can be among them.
10. From time to time the international coordinator shall be given free Christian e-books as time permit and others can be bought at members drastically reduced price.
11. All intercessor are free to post newly and workable online business on the blog, this will pass through the international coordinator
12. All intercessor are free to advertise their online goods on the blog. But this advertisement shall attract $1.00. The advert shall be on the recent post until a new one is posted. These adverts shall not be removed as long as the internet in upon the earth.
13. All intercessor can withdraw their membership at any time
14. All members are free to offer positive criticism and ideas that will move the movement forward