Introduction

CREATING A LIFESTYLE OF PRAYER AND FASTING 

The purpose of these devotionals is to help you develop a lifestyle of fasting & prayer that is effective and life-changing. As you pray and fast over the next 28 days, we believe you’ll grow as a disciple of Jesus and learn how to love God, love others and live on mission by hearing and obeying God.

PRAYER

Look at what Jesus said about prayer in Matthew 7:7-8.

Matthew 7:7-8 (Amplified)

7 Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking [reverently] and [the door] will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who keeps on asking receives; and he who keeps on seeking finds; and to him who keeps on knocking, [the door] will be opened.

This describes a lifestyle of asking, seeking, and knocking that is active and ongoing. We don’t get everything we ask God for, but the key is to keep asking, seeking, and knocking. Because when we do, we not only encounter God, we’re changed by Him in the process.

We all need to set aside the demands of life, busyness and distractions. Here are three practical things we need to have as we seek God in prayer: 

1. HAVE A CERTAIN TIME 

   Jesus got up early in the morning to spend time with His Heavenly Father (Mark 1:35). Make a daily appointment with God — whether it’s first thing in the morning, at lunch, or in the evening — and faithfully keep it. 

2. HAVE A CERTAIN PLACE 

   Jesus had a specific place He went to pray. Having a designated place to pray helps us remove distractions and frees us to worship and pray out loud. 

3. HAVE A CERTAIN PLAN 

   As we pray every day, our plans for our prayer time can vary, maybe including worship music, Bible reading, and quiet time to listen to God. It doesn’t always have to look the same; it just helps when we have a plan for connecting regularly with God.

To make your prayer time even more meaningful, you can write notes and prayer requests and play worship music. The most important step is committing to regularly entering God’s presence through prayer.

FASTING:

What is fasting?

Fasting is a spiritual discipline to starve our flesh so that He would increase in our lives and we would decrease.

The practice of fasting was used by many people throughout biblical history as a way to petition God. Fasting is one way to eliminate distractions in order to seek God.

Principles for Fasting

The action of fasting in itself has no spiritual value. Without a purpose, you are simply starving yourself. Going through the motions alone will not please God (Isaiah 58).

Fasting can be a way to deepen your connection with God, hear His voice and see a breakthrough in your life. It can be easy to want to complain while fasting, or draw attention to ourselves. Jesus warned about this in Matthew 6:16-18.

How should I fast?

There are many different types of fasts. Choose a fast that is safe and effective for you.

• All meals for a set period of days

• 1 or 2 meals a day for a set period of days

• All meals 1 day a week

• Eat only nuts, grains, fruits and vegetables (Daniel Fast)

• Eat all foods but drink only water

• Drink no coffee, caffeine or soda

• No desserts, sweets or chocolate

• No technology or entertainment (all or one kind) - or anything that consumes your time and attention

We’d love to hear what God’s speaking to you! Share it on your social media and tag Hope (@hopechurchmvmt)!

WEEK 1 -THE LORD’S PRAYER 

Jesus modeled praying in a way that connects us to God, aligns our priorities with His, and teaches us to depend on Him.

 It happened that while Jesus was praying in a certain place, after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray…” 

Luke 11:1 

“Our Father who is 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 also have forgiven our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.” 

Matthew 6:9-13

“Our Father who is in Heaven” 

God isn’t interested in us practicing religion; instead, He desires a relationship with us. God has adopted us as His children. Starting our prayer time acknowledging our relationship with God is powerful for us and delights Him as well. 

For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!”

Romans 8:15

Proclaim your intimate relationship with God, addressing Him lovingly as your Father and thanking Him that you are His child. 

PRAYER: 

“Father, I come to You in prayer today thankful that I am Your child. I know I am a sinner, but You have forgiven me and adopted me as Your own, and I am so grateful to call you my Father. Thank you for loving me. I love you.”

“Hallowed be Your Name” 

God loves when we worship Him, and there is power in His Name. Here is a list of some of His Names to help us worship Him specifically and personally: 

God is Righteousness – He makes us clean 

God is Sanctifier – He has called us and set us apart 

God is Healer – He heals all our diseases 

God is Banner of Victory – He defeated our enemies 

God is Shepherd – He speaks to us and leads us 

God is Peace – He is our peace in every storm 

God is Provider – He supplies all of our needs 

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; 

The righteous runs into it and is safe.

Proverbs 18:10

Speak God’s Names out loud. When we proclaim who He is, we not only worship Him, but we also remind ourselves how powerful and great our God is. 

PRAYER: 

“God, I am in awe of You. Your Name is a strong tower, a place of protection and safety for me. I praise You as my Healer, my Shepherd, and my Banner of Victory. You are my Peace, my Provider, my Righteousness, and my Sanctifier. Your Name is great, and I worship You.”

“Your Kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” 

Part of being a child of God is caring about what He cares about and loving who He loves. We know His will is perfect, and we acknowledge His wisdom and sovereignty when we pray His agenda first. 

He will always give you all you need from day to day if you will make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. 

Luke 12:31 TLB 

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Matthew 6:33

Spend time focusing on what God is focused on. His priorities include: 

• Saving the lost 

• Wisdom and guidance for those in authority— parental, spiritual, governmental, work-related 

• Caring for the poor and marginalized 

• Unity and love 

• Justice 

• Freedom for those in bondage 

• Accomplishing His purpose in our lives 

PRAYER: 

“God, I recognize there is no better plan on earth than Yours, and I pray for Your will to be done in my life (name the areas of your life where you need more of God’s presence today) and in our world. This world is lost and needs You desperately, and I pray for every person to know You as their personal Lord and Savior. I pray for the leaders in my life (pray specifically over parents, spiritual leaders, governmental leaders, employers, and any other leaders in your life), that You would show them Your will and give them supernatural wisdom and discernment as they lead. God, I pray that Your heart for justice and unity would be seen in our world; that those who are in bondage will be set free; that the needs of the poor and marginalized will be met. Show me what my role is in seeing the realities of heaven come to earth. Make Your priorities my priorities. Help me love who You love and see value in all people. I give my life to You again today; have Your way in me. Please give me wisdom and clarity as You show me my next steps.”

“Give us this day our daily bread.” 

God promises to supply all our needs. He wants us to come to Him with our problems, needs, and desires and to trust Him to provide. 

I will lift up my eyes to the mountains;

From where shall my help come?

My help comes from the Lord,

Who made heaven and earth.

PSALM 121:1-2

Ask God for what you need today. It may help to write down the concerns weighing on your mind or the desires of your heart. Bring them to God, and trust Him enough to hand them over to Him fully. It may help to open your hands before God to physically show your surrender to Him. Problems can either be ours or God’s; they can’t be both.  

PRAYER: 

“Father, I acknowledge that everything I need today will come from You. You made the heavens and the earth; You are more than capable of handling any situation I’m dealing with, so I give it to You completely (specifically talk to God about what is on your mind and heart right now and give it to Him). I look to You to help me, sustain me, and give me Your peace. Remind me of Your hope and power today. Thank You in advance for taking care of my needs.”

“Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.” 

God has offered us complete forgiveness, and we can receive it at any time. When we turn away from our sins and receive His forgiveness, our hearts are more prepared to forgive others as well. 

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9

Ask God to check your heart and show you areas where you might need to ask for forgiveness from Him. Then, it is your turn to forgive those who have offended you. Ask God to forgive you and to help you forgive others. 

PRAYER: 

“God, thank You so much for offering me the gift of forgiveness. Show me any areas in my life that I need to bring before You in order to receive forgiveness and healing. I confess that I have been struggling with sin (talk to God about any areas of sin in your life), and I know that You want me to be clean again. Please forgive me for my sin. Thank You for showing me unfailing grace. As You have so freely forgiven me, I also want to freely forgive others. Help me let go of the things that have offended me and acknowledge when I have offended others (talk to God about anyone you need to forgive). I release to You those who have hurt me, and I trust You to handle those situations according to Your perfect will.”

“And do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” 

Spiritual warfare can seem difficult to understand, but the Bible makes it very clear that we have an enemy who is trying to steal from us, kill us, and destroy us (John 10:10). As we pray, we take our stand against the enemy and fight from a place of victory through Jesus as we’re empowered by His Holy Spirit. There is power in God’s Word, and every lie the enemy has told us can be replaced with God’s truth. 

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.

Ephesians 6:12

By recognizing that the enemy wants to destroy you, you can shed light on his lies and claim God’s truth over your life. Ask God to show you any lies you’re believing or areas of warfare happening in your life. Ask Him to expose the enemy and to help you understand and receive His truth. Simply speaking the name of Jesus has great power in the spiritual realm. The Bible tells us in James 4:7 that if we resist the devil, he will flee from us. Through prayer, we can resist him and walk forward in freedom.

PRAYER: 

“God, I recognize that my struggles today aren’t against the people or circumstances around me, but against the enemy. Please help me to see how the enemy is lying to me. Help me to recognize his lies, take them captive, and make all of my thoughts obedient to the truth of Your Word (list out any specific areas God shows you where you have believed a lie that needs to be replaced with His truth). While the enemy wants to destroy me, I know that You came to give me life to the fullest. I speak the name of Jesus over my life and declare that no weapon formed against me will prosper. I don’t have to fear the enemy because the One who is in me is greater than the one who is in the world.”

“For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever.” 

God is more than able to move in every situation, and ending our prayer time claiming His authority and power focuses our minds on the truth and hope of who He is and what He can do. 

Ah Lord God! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You... 

Jeremiah 32:17

Remind yourself of God’s limitless power and then return to praising Him and declaring your faith in Him: 

• “Yours is the Kingdom” – all authority belongs to God

• “Yours is the Power” – all mightiness flows from God

• “Yours is the Glory” – God’s victory will be complete  

PRAYER: 

“Father God, nothing is too hard for You! Through Your great power, all things are possible. All authority is Yours, all might is Yours, and I know that Your victory will be complete. You are amazing, and I worship You. I praise You for Your power and presence in my life. You are my God, and You are worthy of all praise.”

WEEK 2 -THE TABERNACLE PRAYER

In the Old Testament, the Tabernacle was the dwelling place of God, built to His specifications, where He would meet His people. As they entered the Tabernacle, they passed through seven stations to experience His presence. Even though we no longer need the physical Tabernacle to meet with God, these same steps can remind us of God’s character. This prayer model will take us through each station of the Tabernacle to guide our prayers.

The Israelites entered the Tabernacle with thanksgiving and praise, and we should start our prayer time the same way. 

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him, bless His name.

Psalm 100:4

Spend some time thinking about all the blessings in your life for which you’re thankful. You can write down a list, or just spend quiet moments reflecting on your gratitude and praise toward God.  

PRAYER: 

“Father God, You are good, and You deserve all my praise and more. Thank You for the many ways You have blessed me and for watching over me (tell Him specific things in your life that you’re grateful for. Thank Him for something new that you’ve never thanked Him for before). I want to experience Your presence and Your love in a fresh way today, Jesus. I thank you that Your mercies are new every day. I thank you for who You are and all You have done for me.”

In the Old Testament, everyone had to regularly bring animal sacrifices as payment for their sins. Today, we don’t have to do that because Jesus paid for our sins once and for all with His blood on the cross. 

 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; who pardons all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases; who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; who satisfies your years with good things, so that your youth is renewed like the eagle.

Psalm 103:2-5

Thank God for the gift of Jesus. Thank Jesus for His sacrifice and love. Let the power of the cross and what it means for your life really settle in your heart. In addition to expressing your gratitude, claim the power of transformation and healing that the cross of Jesus has in your life. 

The cross provides us with five major benefits: 

• Salvation - God forgives all my sins 

• Healing - God heals all my wounds

• Redemption - God rescues me and restores me 

• Transformation - God changes me into His likeness 

• Blessing - God provides everything I need

PRAYER:

 “Thank You, God, for making a way for me through Your Son. Jesus, thank You for the sacrifice You made for me on the cross. You saved me, and You set me free. I praise You for being my Healer. You have power over all disease and harm in my life (list specific areas where you need to experience God’s healing power). Thank You for being my Redeemer. You rescue me and give my life purpose. Thank You for transforming my life with Your love, for making me new. I want to grow to be more like You (give Him access to every area of your life). Thank You for blessing me. I know You have good plans for me and all that I have comes from You (thank Him for specific blessings in your life).”

The next step in the Tabernacle was a bowl of water where people were reminded of their sinfulness and their need to be cleansed and forgiven by God. Examining our hearts and motives and surrendering to God is an important part of daily prayer. 

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

Romans 12:1

Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we can confess our sins to Him and receive complete forgiveness and a fresh start. In prayer, humbly and sincerely turn away from your sins and allow God to cleanse and renew you. 

PRAYER: 

“God, I confess my sins to You and turn away from them (tell God any sin you know is in your life and confess it to Him with a sincere heart. Ask Him to show you any other areas that need His cleansing). Thank You, God, for freely forgiving me. As I turn away from my sin, I turn toward You, and I offer myself to You: 

• I give You my tongue, to speak good and not evil 

• I give You my eyes, to focus on You and the needs of others 

• I give You my ears, to be sensitive to Your voice 

• I give You my hands, to do good for others 

• I give You my feet, to walk in Your ways and follow Your footsteps 

• I give You my mind, to be transformed and used by You 

I ask You, Lord, for the fruit of the Spirit found in Galatians 5:22-23, so that I can grow closer to You and make a difference in the lives of others. I ask for love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.”

In the Tabernacle, a table with twelve loaves of bread represented the importance of reading God’s Word for daily sustenance. 

This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.

Joshua 1:8

God’s Word is an incredible gift and a powerful tool, and it has great relevance and impact in our prayer life. Here is how you can incorporate God’s Word into your prayer time: 

• Take time to read and think about the Word 

• Claim God’s many great promises for your life and the world around you 

• Ask Him for fresh illumination from His Word 

• Ask Him to show you how to apply His Word in the world around you 

PRAYER:

“Thank You, God, for giving me Your Word. I commit to reading it, and I ask You to reveal Yourself to me through it. I want to know You more. Help me to grow more in love with Your Word and to be more dependent on it. I claim the promises You have for me, and I meditate on the truth of Your Word (pray any Scriptures that are on your heart or that God has given you in your current season). Give me fresh illumination from Your Word today and every day! Help me apply it so I can be Your ambassador for love, justice, and righteousness in the world.”

A small altar of burning incense stood at the entrance to the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence dwelled. The people of God entered God’s presence as they worshipped His Name. This altar represents worship and how it pleases God when we worship Him.  

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

Romans 12:1

Thank God for making His presence available to you. Praise His Name and worship Him personally and specifically for Who He is and how He has moved in your life.  

PRAYER: 

“Thank You, God, for Your presence. I know that You are here with me. I worship You and You alone. I know God, that You are: 

My Righteousness - Jeremiah 23:6 

My Sanctifier - Leviticus 20:7-8 

My Healer - Exodus 15:26 

My Provider - Genesis 22:14 

My Banner of Victory - Exodus 17:15 

My Peace - Judges 6:24 

My Shepherd - Psalm 23:1  

(As you pray through the different Names of God, focus on a few aspects of who He is that have been especially meaningful in your current season of life.) 

I know that You are always with me, God, and Your presence is life to me. You give me breath, joy, and purpose. I love you, God.”

The final place in the Tabernacle was the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence dwelled. There, the priest interceded by praying on behalf of the people of God. In the same way, we intercede on behalf of those around us.

First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

1 Timothy 2:1-4

We can make a difference when we spend time praying for others. Pray for those with whom you interact and connect, including: 

• Those in authority - leaders in church, government, school, family, and workplace 

• Those who are marginalized - those suffering injustice, the poor, the widowed, the weak 

• Your family - both immediate and extended family members 

• Your church - pastors, leadership team, members

• Your community - people in your city, nation, and world 

• Your relationships - friends, co-workers, acquaintances 

• Your adversaries - those with whom you disagree 

PRAYER: 

“Thank You, God, for creating a way through Jesus for me to have Your presence wherever I go. I want to specifically ask You to watch over those in authority over me— my spiritual leaders, the leaders of our government, the leaders in my family, and my employers (pray for these people by name). Give them wisdom and grace, watch over and protect them, and help them to know and love You more. 

I also ask You to watch over those who are marginalized in my nation and in my community. Our world is desperate for justice and reconciliation. Please meet the needs of the poor, the widowed, the weak, and those suffering injustice (pray specifically for people you know who need help, advocacy, and intervention). Show me how I can be your hands and feet to those who are hurting. 

I ask You, God, to be present with my family. Bless them and keep them from harm (pray for any specific needs in your family right now). For those in my family who don’t know You, please meet them where they are and guide their hearts toward You. 

I ask You to watch over my church, God. Give my pastor wisdom and vision, bless the connect groups and everyone who steps foot into our buildings. I pray that You will bring the lost into our church, and that they will come to know You. Keep our vision rooted in who You are and moving toward Your goals. 

I ask You to watch over my city, my nation, and our world. I pray for justice and equality for all and ask You to bring peace (name areas where you feel a burden for your city, nation, and the world). I pray for anyone who comes across my path to see Your light in me. I lift up my friends, neighbors, and coworkers. I thank You for them and pray for Your blessing over them (pray for any specific needs of others). I also pray for my adversaries, as the Bible teaches. Let me be a bridge through which You can bring unity and reconciliation. 

Lastly, God, I ask You to provide for my needs. I know that You sustain me, and that You care for me. I lift up my physical, emotional, and spiritual needs to You (share the needs on your mind right now). I lay my cares at Your feet. Thank You for loving me, choosing me, and calling me Yours. Amen.”

The Word of God is one of the most valuable tools we have to build a dynamic daily prayer life. It brings power, truth, and encouragement to our prayer time.  

Take a moment to read Psalm 23, and then use the prayer below as a way to use the psalm to have a conversation with God.  

SCRIPTURE: 

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. 

Psalm 23

PRAYER: 

“God, You are my Provider, and I know You will take care of me. Thank You for guiding me to places of rest. You are my source of energy and passion. You keep me going and lead me toward a life of purpose and freedom. I know that even when I experience my darkest seasons of difficulty and challenge, I have nothing to be afraid of because You are with me. Your presence and power are a constant comfort to me. I know that You are preparing the way for me and that my enemies cannot touch me because You are taking care of me. I know that You have blessed me, and I thank You for choosing me and anointing me with purpose. Your blessings are so much more than I could ask for. I know that You are good, God, and that You are with me all the days of my life. You have chosen me, and I have chosen You, and that means I will be with You, in Your presence, forever.”

WEEK 3 - prayers for spiritual warfare

It’s very clear in scripture that we are all involved in a spiritual battle that is not an elective. The nature of this broken world is such that spiritual forces are at work to limit our effectiveness, taking us out if possible. The difference between sustained victory or a defeated Christian life really comes down to our knowledge of and willingness to use the weapons of our warfare.

When we are aware of spiritual warfare, we can be active in praying through it. Through the blood of Jesus, God has given us victory and power to fight. 

SCRIPTURE:

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ... 

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 

When we fight God’s way and with His weapons, demonic forces, barriers and strongholds are not just pushed back, delayed or discouraged. They are destroyed! The problem, for many believers, is that they do not access or pick up the weapons that God has furnished for the battle!

We could define a spiritual weapon as “anything found in scripture that drives back the powers of darkness, defeats our spiritual enemies, and establishes the Kingdom of God here on earth”.  

Here are several weapons found in the Word (not an all-inclusive list):

• Prayer & Intercession

• Thanksgiving

• Singing Praise & Worship

• Tithing & Giving

• Unity

• Memorizing Scripture

• Forgiving Others & Resolving Offense 

You can command anything that comes against the truth of God and His Word to bow to the Name of Jesus. Take a bold stand, praying specifically and confidently through God’s power and His Spirit. 

PRAYER: 

“Lord, reveal to me any spiritual weapons I have neglected. Show me if there is a specific weapon I need to use today. I command anything that comes against the truth of God and His Word to bow to the Name of Jesus. I pray that any schemes of the Enemy against my family, friends, and church family would be destroyed in Jesus’ mighty name. (Pray for any people or situations specifically that are burdening you).  I pray that Your Kingdom will come and Your will be done in these situations.”

Knowing that we are in a spiritual battle, God provides spiritual armor and equips us to take a stand when battles come our way. The key to consistent forward movement and progress is to always seek God first, be willing and ready to be obedient, and use the right weapons at the right time.

SCRIPTURE:

Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Ephesians 6:11-17

Acknowledge that you’re in a spiritual battle. Then, claim the protection God has given you by praying through the different pieces of armor described in Ephesians 6.  

PRAYER: 

“Thank You, Lord, for my salvation. I receive it in a new and fresh way from You, and I declare that nothing can separate me from the love of Christ and the place I have in Your Kingdom. I wear Your righteousness today against all condemnation and corruption. Cover me with holiness and purity—defend me from all attacks against my heart. Lord, I put on the belt of truth. I choose a lifestyle of honesty and integrity. Expose the lies I have believed, and show me Your truth today. I choose to live for the Gospel in every moment. Show me where You are working and lead me to it. Give me strength to walk daily with You. I believe that You are powerful against every lie and attack of the enemy and I receive and claim Your power in my life. Nothing is coming today that can overcome me because You are with me. Holy Spirit, show me the truths of the Word of God that I will need to counter the traps of the enemy. Bring those Scriptures to mind today. Finally, Holy Spirit, I agree to walk in step with You in everything as my spirit communes with You in prayer throughout the day.”

It is powerful, inspiring, and borderline unbelievable that our prayers can change the course of someone’s life, the spiritual climate on a college campus, or the destiny of a nation. And yet, it’s true! Your prayers have the capacity to release great power and can be a game changer for those who cannot or will not pray for themselves.  

SCRIPTURE:

Confess and acknowledge how you have offended one another and then pray for one another to be instantly healed, for tremendous power is released through the passionate, heartfelt prayer of a godly believer!

James 5:16 (TPT)

Intercession means to “stand between” or “to go on behalf of.” As Jesus intercedes for us, He is standing between the brokenness of humanity and the needed grace and mercy of the Father. He has released the church to be involved in this same ministry. According to Ezekiel 22:30 this is called standing in the gap. 

The purpose and need for intercessors are to justify divine intervention. God is looking for people to boldly approach the throne of God, making petitions on behalf of others. There’s something that happens when we pray for someone - God allows us to see them the way He does.

PRAYER: 

“Father, today I stand in the gap for (name any family, friends, church leaders, government leaders, or anyone else who comes to mind). I lift these situations up to You and ask You to intervene supernaturally in their lives. I pray that Your will would be done and You would perform miracles on their behalf. I also pray that You would soften the hearts of my friends and family to the Gospel. (Pray specifically for friends and family who haven’t surrendered their lives to Jesus). I ask You for opportunities to serve my friends and family, as well as opportunities to share my faith with them. I know that Your heart is for each one of these people to come into relationship with You, and that You love them more than I do.”

If you were to examine many of the battle plans in scripture, you would find that the strategies used, and weapons employed, seemed a bit ridiculous. For example, when King Jehosophat and the people of Israel were about to be attacked by a vast army, they picked up a few weapons that seemed a bit “ridiculous” yet yielded a miraculous victory. Their weapons of choice were to fast, sing and express thankfulness to God (2 Chronicles 20).

Singing, “Give thanks to the Lord, for His love endures forever,” the army marched into battle. This God-given lyric, a simple yet powerful weapon, led the way to Israel’s triumph. God turned a valley of imminent destruction into a valley of blessing through the simplicity of praise!  

Scripture says we enter God’s presence through thanksgiving and praise (Psalm 100:4). Your voice of praise has a frequency that will bring breakthroughs.

SCRIPTURE:

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:6-7  

Use this weapon today by stopping and praising God for what is coming. Begin to lift the name of Jesus over any impossible situation and thank Him, out loud, for the impending breakthrough and victory. Tell God how big He is and how any situation is a little thing for Him.

PRAYER:

“Jesus, thank you for giving me every blessing I have, including my salvation. Thank you for providing a place for me to live, my health, my family and my friends. (Thank God for specific blessings in your life). Today I praise you for being righteous, sovereign and all-powerful. (Praise Him for working in situations that are burdening you). You are in control of every situation troubling me, and I know that no matter what happens, You will be glorified.”

There is a very real and ever-present spiritual battle that requires resilience and persistence on our part if we are going to see the move of God that we are crying out for. When we get serious about pursuing God for a spiritual breakthrough, something is set in motion! 

In Daniel 10:12-13, we see that while Daniel fasted and prayed, there was warfare happening in the heavens that he could not see and knew nothing about. When we set our hearts to see a move of God in our city, to see the lost come home and the bound set free, be prepared for resistance. Yet we pray in faith, we fast in faith, wait in faith and we understand that we win if we don’t quit!

SCRIPTURE:

Truly I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall have been bound in heaven; and whatever you loose on earth shall have been loosed in heaven.

Matthew 18:18

Our prayers have an impact in the spiritual realm. As God’s children, He has given us authority to bind demonic strongholds and forces of darkness in the Name of Jesus. He has also given us authority to loose God’s blessings in His Name! 

PRAYER: 

“Father, Your Word says that no weapon formed against me will prosper (Isaiah 54:17), and I declare it in Jesus’ Name. I stand on Your Word. The enemy is driven out from me; from my home, church family, workplace, children, and loved ones. I declare that he is not able to stand against me. No weapon formed against me will prosper, because the Spirit of the Lord is with me, protecting me. I declare these truths in the Name of Jesus. Anything that comes against me or my family that is not in line with the truth and will of God, I command to bow to the powerful Name of Jesus. (Bind specific strongholds affecting you, your family, your friends, and your church in the Name of Jesus.) God, thank You for loving me, making me clean, and giving me purpose. I pray Your will would be done in my life, and the lives of those I know. (Loose God’s blessings over your life and others' lives in Jesus’ Name.) Father God, I give You all of my thanksgiving, praise, glory, honor, and worship.”

Prayer is not only communion with God; it is also confrontation with the enemy. When Jesus was on the earth, He came face-to-face with the devil when He was tempted in the wilderness, and every time the enemy tried to tempt Him, Jesus responded with a reference from the Bible (Matthew 4, Luke 4). He used the Sword of Truth to defend Himself from the enemy’s attacks. We should do the same thing. 

Perhaps you’ve underestimated the power of speaking out loud to your enemies, mountains and seemingly insurmountable obstacles that lie between you and God’s best for your life. Jesus was clear that the release point of power is when we “speak to it”.

SCRIPTURE:

Truly I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is going to happen, it will be granted him.

Mark 11:23

Consider the power of audible, intentional declarations that are in alignment with the Word of God and filled with faith. It’s not enough to meditate on God’s ability to move the mountain. Lift your voice to a new level of faith, intensity and volume. Today, let’s not complain or worry about our mountains; let’s decide to be obedient and speak to the mountain! 

PRAYER:

“Lord, today I declare the promises in Your Word over my life. I declare that You are good and You have a good plan for my future (Jeremiah 29:11). I declare that You are mightier than any problem I’m facing on the earth that You created (Jeremiah 10:12). And I declare that I’m a son/daughter of the Living God (Romans 8:15). (Declare any other promises from God’s Word that come to mind). Lord, today I lift up these mountains to You. (Talk to God about the main mountains or obstacles you’re facing). I say to each of these mountains, God is in control and you have to move!”

Throughout scripture, we see how much God loves unity and hates division between His people. Unity is a spiritual weapon that releases great power! When we are unified, we experience His blessing, wage war effectively, and can have the mind of Christ (Psalm 133:1, Deut 32:30, 1 Cor 2:16). 

God is omnipresent (everywhere all the time) yet there is a promise of a greater level of His presence and authority when we intentionally connect with other believers to pray. 

SCRIPTURE:

Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 18:19 

The Greek word for “agree” is where we get our English word “symphony” and means “to blend, to harmonize, to be in unity and one voice”. This kind of prayer is powerful and comes with an amazing guarantee that when we find this kind of harmony, we can “ask anything” and He will do it. 

PRAYER:

“Lord, teach us to be a unified family on mission that loves one another the way that You love us.  I repent for any areas of my life where I’ve allowed division, independence, or unforgiveness. (Talk to God about any specific areas coming to mind). I address the spirits of independence, division and gossip, I bind you in the name of Jesus. The Lord Jesus rebuke you. I declare the door to division in our church is closed. Lord, I pray that You would loose a new level of unity and humility over our church. Thank You for the blessings, wisdom and power that come when we are in unity.”

WEEK 4 - praying scripture

One sure way of having increased, consistent communication with the Holy Spirit is to stay in the Word! Study the Word, meditate on the Word, and treasure the Word. Scripture is the Lord’s primary mode of communication with us.

The Word of God is one of the most valuable tools we have to build a dynamic daily prayer life. It brings power, truth, and encouragement to our prayer time. 

Use this scripture and prayer below to have a conversation with God.

SCRIPTURE:

For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline.

2 Timothy 1:7 

PRAYER:

“Father, I know You have not given me a spirit of fear or timidity, but one of power, love, and self-discipline. When my mind feels out of control, I pray that You would renew my spirit and let power, love, and self-discipline fill me. Help me to look more like You every day. With confidence that Your power lives in me, give me boldness to confront the enemy and anything I see in the world that does not reflect Your heart. Thank You for breaking the spirit of fear off my life, and I receive the truth that You have given me a sound and healthy mind." 

The Bible is “living and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, even penetrating as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). What does it mean that God’s Word can divide between our soul and our spirit?

Our soul is our mind, will and emotions. In other words, the soul is the self-conscious part of man. On the other hand, the spirit is the God-conscious part of man. The Bible is like a sharp sword that divides between our soul and spirit so that we can distinguish between our desires and God’s voice! 

Use the scripture and prayer below to declare God’s Word and align your priorities with His today. 

SCRIPTURE:

But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 

Matthew 6:33 

PRAYER:

“Your Word tells me that if I seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness, You will lead me to a life of blessing, purpose, and freedom. I am Yours today, God, and I give this day to You. Help me to focus on Your priorities first—sharing Your love and making Your Name known. (Pray for opportunities to share the Gospel with those who don’t know Jesus). I know that by focusing on You and Your heart for others, rather than myself, I will receive joy and peace.”

Many people live and make decisions based on what they feel or experience. However, scripture tells us that our hearts are deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9). Confessing scripture means agreeing with God’s Word, instead of trusting in our own thoughts or feelings. 

Use the scripture and prayer below to submit your thoughts and feelings to God and agree with His Word today.

SCRIPTURE:

Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you.

James 4:10

PRAYER:

“God, You have promised that if I humble myself before You, You will lift me up. I recognize today that I cannot succeed on my own, and I need You in every moment. I humble myself before You, and I ask You to work in and through me today. My time, efforts, thoughts, and words are Yours today (name specific parts of your day and give them to God). Show me what I don’t know, and help me grow in the knowledge of You and Your heart for people. (Ask God for a new compassion for friends and family). Use me for Your purposes, Lord. I choose to trust that You will be with me and lift me up.”

In Ephesians 6, Paul describes the armor of God. He names one offensive weapon in our arsenal: the sword of the Spirit “which is the Word of God” (Ephesians 6:17). The sword of scripture is the same weapon Jesus used against the devil during His time on earth (Matthew 4:1-11).  Jesus modeled that confessing scripture is a powerful prayer tactic to confront the enemy!

Use the scripture and prayer below to pick up the sword of the Spirit and declare your trust in God.

SCRIPTURE:

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!” 

Psalm 91:1-2

PRAYER:

“God, I claim that I dwell in Your shelter, the Most High God, and I rest in Your shadow, the Almighty One. I claim that You alone are my refuge and fortress. You are my God and I trust You. When I face anything that brings me uncertainty or fear (confess these things to Him), I know that I can come to You as my safe place. Thank You for Your strength and protection in my life. I pray that others will see You move in my life and be drawn to You. (Pray that your family and friends will turn to God as their fortress.)”

The Bible is full of promises to us from God. We can trust that God is always faithful to keep the promises He’s spoken to us in His Word. Aligning our prayers with His promises is one way to ensure that our prayers will be powerful! 

Use the scripture and prayer below to declare God’s promises today. 

SCRIPTURE:

Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.

Matthew 11:28-30

 PRAYER:

“Lord, I need new strength today. I believe Your word when it says that You have everything I need and that You want to provide for me - emotionally, spiritually, physically, mentally.  Only You can give me rest for my soul, so I surrender trying to meet my needs on my terms (list out what things you’re trying to get life from) and I take your yoke upon me instead. I give my work and my efforts to You and I ask You for favor and blessing in anything my hands touch (surrender specific efforts to Him). May it be for Your glory alone so that others may see Your power and goodness at work and cry out to You for help. (Ask God to reveal Himself to family and friends.)”

Following Jesus requires us to lay aside our old ways of thinking and living, and put on the new self by believing the truth in His Word (Ephesians 4:22-24). Putting on the new self is an act of faith. It’s choosing to believe the truth about God, ourselves and others. It’s laying aside our plans to follow God’s plans. 

This is one reason why praying scripture is powerful. By reading and agreeing with God’s Word daily, we can put on the new self and walk in His calling for our lives.  

Use the scripture and prayer below to agree with God’s Word and put on the new self today.

SCRIPTURE:

“For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”

Jeremiah 29:11-13

PRAYER:

“My God, I try to make so many plans for my life, but I know Your plans for me are best. Your Word promises that You have plans for me to prosper and for a hope and a future. Thank You for loving me enough to have a plan for my life. You have promised me that when I call on You, You will listen to me. You have also promised that if I seek You with all my heart, I will find You. I commit to seek after You today. I lay my plans down at Your feet and submit to Your plans for me (mention your plans and lay them down before God). I know that You see the big picture and You know what is better for me than I do. I trust You, and I ask You to guide me toward Your plans. I pray my friends and family will want to know Your plans for their lives. (Pray for family and friends to seek God’s plans for their lives.)”

 God’s Word calls us to “not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Instead of conforming to the world and believing the culture around us, we can renew our minds by relying on the only steadfast source of truth: the Bible. 

Use the scripture and prayer below to declare your agreement with the truth of God’s Word.

SCRIPTURE:

For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:38-39 

PRAYER:

“God, I am in awe of Your love for me. You are so great, and I am so small, yet You love me fully. I remind my soul today that nothing can separate me from Your love—I am so grateful! There is nothing I can do to win or lose Your love; You love me without condition. Because I know that nothing on earth, in time or space, or anything in existence can separate me from Your love. (Pray for friends and family to come into relationship with Jesus and experience His love).I will live confidently and peacefully knowing I have always been and will always be fully loved by You.”