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November 14, 2004


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"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." -Philippians 4: 6

Prayer Warriors

Prayer! How important is it? Just look at Jesus. In every key moment in His life you will find Him in prayer. The very Son of God knew it was necessary at all times. Shouldn't that tell us something? We live in a day and age where many people mock the idea of prayer. You might be considered foolish by some if you told them you pray. The Supreme Court of our country has even banished prayer from many 'public places and ceremonies' for fear that it might offend somebody. Truly there is a spiritual war in this world and prayer has come under attack. What we need is Prayer Warriors who will fight back! Are you willing to join the battle? Are you willing to be 'mocked' or to look 'foolish?' Are you willing to risk facing the lions like Daniel (see Daniel chapter 6)? Prayer Warriors are!

Satan knows the power of prayer. Why else do you think he tries so hard to stamp it out? There are many things that we allow to get in the way of praying. A few examples: 1) 'I'm too busy!" You mean to tell me you are too busy to tap into the greatest power source there is? The very Creator of Earth who desires to hear your prayers. Come on! 2) 'I am a sinner!" Aren't we all? If I am going to wait until I am perfect to start praying then I would never pray. We all sin and fall down from time to time but the Prayer Warrior will keep getting back up! 3) 'I don't know what to say when I pray!" There is no magic formula to prayer. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6 above) Just talk to God and tell him what is on your mind and heart. And what does it say in the next verse? "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:7) Peace, something we all desire. You don't need to understand it. Just pray and accept it. We could list a lot reasons not to pray but the Prayer Warriors will pray anyways!

This world is not an easy place. We all go through trials and difficulties from time to time. That is why we need to be praying for each other. We need Prayer Warriors who will be in prayer for their families, friends, church, etc... It may seem sometimes that we lose some battles but I guarantee you that we will win the war! How? "Have Faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11: 22-24) How many people do you know who have 'mountains' in their life? Be in prayer for them! Or perhaps there are 'mountains' in your own life (see Psalm 86: 6-7 below)? Prayer Warriors place their faith in God and then watch those 'mountains' get thrown into the sea. It can be tough in this world. That is why we need to support and encourage each other! We need Prayer Warriors who will tell others, 'STAY STRONG! I'M PRAYING FOR YOU!' Doesn't it encourage you to know that somebody is praying for you? That is why we need to be in prayer for each other. Prayer is so important. The world needs Prayer Warriors. Will you answer the call?

Take a moment and encourage someone this week.

I pray that all is well with you. Please let me know if you have any prayer concerns or praises. Have a great week and remember to smile :), the Lord loves you!

In Christ,

Shan D. Hartsough

"Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you, for you will answer me." -Psalm 86: 6-7

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