Premiere Issue, Vol. 1, No. 1 PrayerConnect Connecting to the Heart of Christ through Prayer

Can Prayer save America?

7 Circles of Power Prayer Guide | What’s It Mean to Contend? The Full Revelation of God You don’t have a prayer? Let Harvest Prayer Ministries help!

Let us help you start a prayer revolution —an army of believers praying the purposes of God for their neighbors, your church, and the nations.

Do an all-church 30-day prayer initiative with our new outreach-focused prayer guide.

Dave Butts Jon Graf This 30-day prayer guide from veteran prayer lead- ers Dave and Kim Butts, is Let Harvest Prayer Ministry having a powerful effect in teachers Dave Butts or churches across the coun- try. Why not engage your Jon Graf fire up and equip people in 30 days of prayer your congregation to pray for neighbors and nations, as never before. using this guide. Call 812-238-5504 or go to For information on ordering, go to www.harvestprayer.com and click on www.prayershop.org, Teaching|Teaching Ministry for information click on Restoration Revolution on hosting a prayer weekend.

Ch u r c h Harvest Prayer r a y e r e a d e r s Ministries Pr ayerShop P L Publishing Ne t w o r k www.harvestprayer.com www.prayershop.org www.prayerleader.com PrayerConnect You don’t have a prayer? 8 Premiere Issue • Vol. 1, No. 1 Can Prayer Save America? 8 Show Me the Proof A Historical Look at How Prayer Turned the Tide in U.S. History By David Kubal Plus: America’s Pentecost by Robert Bakke 14 From Hopelessness to City of Hope The Story of Manchester, Kentucky Let us help you start a prayer revolution By Arlyn Lawrence Plus: Why Don’t We See More Community Transformations —an army of believers praying the purposes of God for their in America? neighbors, your church, and the nations. 20 Praying God’s Purposes for America Using the Scriptures to Pray for a Nation By Dave and Kim Butts 14 Plus: A Daily Prayer Pattern for Strategic Areas of Our Nation Features Departments 24 Contending in Prayer 4 Publisher’s Note 30 Prayer Leader When You Need a Higher Level of Intercession Feel the Need to Connect? The Voice of Experience By Carol Madison 5 News and Events 31 Classics Prayer Leaders Gather The Benefits of Time in Prayer Students Unite for Prayer Mercy Drop of Revival 24 28 Tips & Tools Prayer and Social Media Technology Meets Prayer Evangelism Prayer Initiatives

Need a Speaker for Your Prayer Week- Orders (Individual and Multiple Copies): end, Prayer Conference, or Event? Whom Do I Contact? prayerconnect.net There are a number of gifted speakers as- Business and Shipping Address: Prayer Connect Lisa Kehrt or Joanne Telle sociated with Prayer Connect. Jonathan 619 Washington Ave • Terre Haute, IN 47802 800.217.5200 or 812.238.5504 Graf regularly ministers in churches of 812.238.5504 • prayerconnect.net varying sizes. Carol Madison is also avail- Permissions: Jonathan Graf able to minister in the area of prayer and Article Submissions: Carol Madison [email protected] • 812.238.5504 community transformation. Our parent or- Prayer Connect Submissions • 4300 West 98th St. Reprint Permissions: If you are making copies for your small ganizations, Harvest Prayer Ministries and Bloomington, MN 55437 group or for church use, you have blanket permission to make up the Church Prayer Leaders Network, have [email protected] many speakers associated with their minis- to 100 copies without asking for permission (as long as the copies tries. You can find their contact information Subscriptions: Issue One of Prayer Connect is a sold only as are not sold or in a for-sale product). Please include the phrase: at the respective emails or websites. an individual product. Based on the interest of Issue One, we “Copied from Prayer Connect (Issue #). Used with permission.” Contact us to gain permission for all other uses. Jonathan Graf will hopefully begin taking subscriptions this fall. In order to be alerted when subscription orders will begin, go to prayerconnect. [email protected] Advertising: If you would like information on placing an ad in net and click on Subscribe. You will be asked to fill out a non- Prayer Connect, or if you have concerns or questions about our Carol Madison binding information form. We will mail and email you information ads, please contact: [email protected] when we begin to take subscriptions. We are targeting January harvestprayer.com 2012 as a starting point of producing bi-monthly editions of Prayer Connect • 619 Washington Ave • Terre Haute, IN 47802 prayerleader.com Prayer Connect. [email protected] • 812.238.5504

www.harvestprayer.com www.prayershop.org www.prayerleader.com PRAYERCONNECT.NET 3 Cpublisher’snotE PrayerConnect p Premiere Issue • Vol. 1, No. 1

Sponsored by America’s National Prayer Committee Denominational Prayer Leaders Network International Prayer Council

Feel the Need to Connect? Published by Church Prayer Leaders Network Harvest Prayer Ministries rayer Connect. Seems like an odd, bulky name for a PrayerShop Publishing magazine on prayer. I have to agree; it doesn’t just roll off the tongue. But I am getting used to it now that I The mission of PrayerConnect is have said it a thousand times or so. It’s also a popular 1. To encourage and equip believers toward a deeper walk with Jesus Christ through Pname for anyone and everyone to use for their ministry prayer newsletters or church prayer—our experiential connection to God. prayer pages. So why pick it as a name for a new magazine? Because it clearly says 2. To resource prayer leaders and pastors with what we intend the magazine to be. tools to help them motivate, disciple, and First, prayer is a connection with God. Our tagline “Connecting with the Heart of mobilize believers in churches to be a part of an army that seeks to pray the purposes Christ through Prayer” speaks of that wonderful relationship that every believer can of God for churches, communities, and the have—through prayer—in which we experience the living Christ. Unfortunately, nations. many believers struggle with prayer and making this connection. This magazine 3. To be a unifying force between prayer min- istries, community transformation groups, will help believers at any depth of their relationship to go deeper into prayer. and churches. We also intend that Prayer Connect will connect readers to consider praying for the things that are on God’s heart. We will regularly feature articles and ideas on praying Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Jonathan Graf for the lost, revival, and the completion of the Great Commission. We want people to [email protected] move beyond using prayer as a “fix-it tool,” to becoming active Kingdom participants Editor whose prayers are in sync with and release the purposes of God for the world. Carol Madison Second, we want to encourage readers to connect with other praying people. Prayer Connect [email protected] will feature many helps and articles on praying together and developing dynamic Art Director corporate prayer in churches. But we also want to connect you with other like- J. Bridget Rennie hearted individuals. Our website prayerconnect.net will provide opportunities for you Subscriptions|Orders to interact via a social network, chats, and comment forums on blogs and articles. Lisa Kehrt, Joanne Telle We will also host multiple conferences across the country (currently seven re- gional conferences are planned for 2012). These events will be jointly sponsored by Prayer Connect, the Church Prayer Leaders Network, and the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Finally, we want to connect you with the best resources on prayer. We hope our maga- About this Issue: zine and website will lead you to books, prayer guides, experts on various aspects of prayer, websites, and prayer ministries that can encourage and challenge you. Join You might be intrigued the connection! by the theme of this issue, “Can Prayer Save How Do I Subscribe? America?” Many of you Our launch plan is different than most magazines. The first issue and possibly the are thinking, Only God second issue will be sold as stand-alone products. We plan to roll out a subscrip- can save America— tion-based magazine early in 2012—probably with the January/February issue. To not prayer. We agree! help us gauge interest, will you please go to prayerconnect.net and fill out a simple But we also know that God form that indicates your desire to subscribe when Prayer Connect becomes available works on behalf of the prayers of His as a bi-monthly magazine? This is a non-binding form—you are not committing people who seek Him with humble any money at this time. We will email and mail you a notice when we are ready to and repentant hearts. The truth is, take subscriptions. You can choose to purchase a subscription at that point. Thank only God can save America as we pray. you for helping us in this way. He invites us to ask Him. We are in We hope you will enjoy Prayer Connect. And we encourage you to connect with partnership with Him for the sake of us and others at prayerconnect.net. our nation. So please read this issue Jonathan Graf with a heart to pray and believe that God can still save America.

4 Premiere Issue 2011 News&Events God’s Movement through Prayer

Prayer Leaders to Gather at World Prayer Assembly

housands of lead- unprecedented efforts to share • Leaders serving in all walks of life ers from as many the gospel of Jesus throughout (arts, media, marketplace, church, T as 220 nations are the world. In recent years, development of poor, education, expected to gather in Jakarta, Indonesia, hundreds of thousands of Christians have family, government) next year under the banner of “Let the also gathered in prayer throughout In- • Youth, student, and child leaders New Wave of His Glory Fill the Earth!” donesia. These two nations are eager to • Anyone who has a heart for prayer The World Prayer Assembly (May 14- host the world in a new wave of global and is making an impact in his/her 18, 2012) is a call to ministry leaders prayer and evangelization. community or sphere of influence. from all walks of life to join in a global Now leaders are invited back to prayer movement based on the vision another united worldwide prayer move- A special emphasis will be on raising of the whole earth being filled with the ment. It is anticipated that 5,000 to 7,000 up the younger generation to become knowledge of God’s glory (Hab. 2:14). ministry leaders will seek God together cutting-edge leaders in the global prayer The Assembly will be hosted by the in significant times of prayer, listening, and mission movement. Young leaders, nations of Indonesia and South Korea, and response to the Lord. The criteria students, and children will make up one- where vibrant movements of prayer have for attending the Assembly include: third of the participants (especially those grown exponentially in the last several under age 30). years. The first similar event took place • Ministry/mission leaders from both in Seoul, Korea, in 1984, and launched church and marketplace Registration and other information can be found at worldprayerassembly.com. an international prayer movement and • Prayer network leaders

Thousands of Minnesota Students Unite for Prayer

he UNITE prayer gathering campuses and in the churches. on the National Day of Prayer Bob Bakke (Global Day of Prayer T (May 5) at the University of MN) opened the evening by declaring, Minnesota was in part the answer to “We’re here to partner with God in the years of prayers for spiritual awaken- unfolding of His purposes by asking ing, especially on college and university Him to send His Holy Spirit upon the campuses. earth and upon these campuses and to The gathering was a unique partner- change them for the glory of Christ.” ship between Global Day of Prayer MN, in appreciation for the older generations, Pulse, and Praise FM radio, all minis- Generations Blessing Each Other Hall declared, “God’s Word says one tries in the Twin Cities with hearts for Dr. Bakke joined Nick Hall (Pulse) and generation will commend God’s works revival and spiritual awakening. In addi- Fern Nichols (MITI) to lead in prayer to another. Tonight is not about ask- tion, the UNITE event was undergirded as a demonstration of the unity among ing the adults to pass some baton to us. in prayer by the 10,000 Moms In Touch the generations. As Nichols prayed for It isn’t about saying we don’t need you International (MITI) groups throughout the students, the crowd was reminded of anymore. This is about us, as young peo- the U.S. the prayers of thousands of moms across ple, standing and saying, ‘Older genera- Although the prayer and worship time the nation. “I love you,” said Nichols. tions, we need your help, your prayers, was student-led, the students invited all “Thousands of moms love you. We are encouragement, wisdom, and guidance generations to participate. More than counting on you, this next generation, for in our lives.’ We link our hearts together 2,500 students and adults worshiped and Jesus’ sake and for the Kingdom of God!” and pray for a multi­generational partnership prayed together, crying out for revival on To the roar of the students’ approval in the gospel!”

Photo by David McIver PRAYERCONNECT.NET 5 News&Events

Pulse (pulsemovement.com) has a vision arena to invite God to do a work on their by going to livestream.com/CCC_up- of seeing revival and evangelistic out- campuses. Beyond the large crowd uni- permidwest and clicking on NDOP reaches on campuses throughout the re- fied in prayer, there were other results Part 1.) gion and nation. The ministry recently that demonstrated God was at work: hosted an outreach on the University of Acknowledging that God has moved Wisconsin Oshkosh campus, with 4,500 • More than 300 students indicated through young people in the history students attending a free concert and commitments to Christ. of revivals in this nation, the prayer of hearing an evangelistic message by Hall. • Some 1,400 students filled out re- the evening was, “Lord, would You do More than 800 students made com- sponse cards desiring further in- it again?” Dr. Bakke encouraged the mitments to Christ. And already the volvement in the campus prayer crowd to pray with faith. “If we are fo- students who were a part of the UNITE movement. cused on purity in the glory of Christ— gathering in Minneapolis are planning • The event was entirely paid for in in agreement—God says He will change strategic initiatives to reach their cam- advance; an offering was taken to both heaven and earth. This is amaz- puses this fall. bless the U of M campus ministries. ing power. It’s a gift to us, and it is the • More than 1,500 people from strength that we exercise right now.” Response to UNITE around the nation viewed through Students came from area colleges and the live web stream. There were Carol Madison is part of the leadership team with Global Day of Prayer MN and universities (both secular and Christian) hundreds of posts in the Internet editor of Prayer Connect. to the University of Minnesota hockey chat-room. (You can view the event

A Mercy Drop of Revival

move of God began at The series on the Holy Spirit) Elliff put a mi- One man said he had been quench- Summit Church in Little Rock, crophone on the floor of the sanctuary, ing the Spirit in his own life by not being A AR, on Sunday morning, April just waiting for a time when his congre- baptized. The Lord had been prompting 3, 2011. Since that morning and for the gation might need to use it. However, him to do that for years. He took off his next month, more than 200 gathered as he began the series, God told him to shoes and asked to be baptized right then. nightly for two to four hours of prayer throw out his plan and just preach what- Four more baptisms followed. Each night that included repentance, confession, ever the Lord gave him each week. for the next week (except Saturday), people coming to Christ, spontaneous He was preaching on quenching the numbers built from 200 to 350 as people baptisms, and passionate intercession. Holy Spirit on that first Sunday in April. came to pray and meet God. More The revival prayer meetings have con- Midway through the second service, confessions, baptisms, and salvations oc- tinued on Monday nights, with more as Elliff was preaching, he sensed God curred as people obeyed what the Spirit groups starting throughout the city. told him to “stop preaching.” He com- was saying to them. “This is a mercy drop of revival,” mented to the congregation that he did The following Sunday the two comments Pastor Bill Elliff, “but in over not know why, but 42 years of ministry, I have never been God told him to stop. involved in or observed a moment quite A man stood up and like this . . . I am humbly amazed and responded, “We need grateful.” to begin to pray.” Be- Prayer Calendar fore Elliff could say 30 Days Muslim Prayer Focus Aug. 1-30; 30-days.net Ready for the Match of Revival much more, the altar Prior to April 3, Elliff had sensed for a started filling up. Cry Out America Sept. 11; awakeningamerica.us long time that God was about to move. Soon people came to See You at the Pole Sept. 28; syatp.com In an audio interview with Life Action the microphone and Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem O c t . 2 ; daytopray.com Ministries’ Byron Paulus, Elliff stated began confessing sins, International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church that it felt like there was “gasoline on testifying to what Nov. 13; idop.org the floor of the church waiting for a God was doing in For more information on these prayer events, go to the event website. match.” In March (while preaching a their hearts.

6 Premiere Issue 2011 News&Events

morning services merged and lasted for our city. There have been deep prayers meetings. After a season of repentance five hours as the prayer revival contin- for individuals, but also prayer . . . for and confession, the Lord also directed ued. Now more than two months later the pastors and spiritual leaders and them to the verse following 2 Chron- (at the writing of this story) hundreds of churches in our city. Many nights we icles 7:14: “Now my eyes will be open people from churches around the area have gathered around and prayed over and my ears attentive to the prayers of- are still gathering as the prayer revival pastors who have been attending.” fered in this place” (vs. 15). As Pastor goes on. Powerful reports have come out of Elliff describes, “It’s now as though the these prayer meetings—reports of trans- people really believe that God is willing Renewed Prayers for the City formation, release from sin, meeting of to answer their prayers like they never In a report to fellow pastors about this needs, etc. One significant outcome was imagined.” move of God, Elliff wrote of the gather- reconciliation between two churches— You can read or hear more about this ings: “There is a deep sense and constant Summit Church and the Baptist church outpouring of God’s Spirit online. Go to awareness that the Spirit of God is the it had come out of in a division 12 summitchurch.org and click on “Do Not only leader. We are to listen to Him and years prior. The reconciliation was not Quench the Spirit.” Among the things you will find is BillE lliff’s blog about what God do exactly as He directs. God has given planned, but the Spirit moved members is doing. To hear a 45-minute interview of us a deep faith during these meetings. who had been involved in the division Elliff, conducted by Byron Paulus of Life The more we are led to pray, the more to suddenly confess sin and ask for for- Action Ministries, go to lifeaction.org and we realize it is God; therefore He has an giveness. click on Media and then click on Infuse Podcast (“Revival Stirrings in Arkansas,” agenda, a purpose, and we are merely April 14). The interview includes stories of cooperating with Him.” God’s Willingness to Answer God’s movement, as well as teaching and “The Lord has awakened us,” contin- In a new and fresh way, people are ea- cautions for leaders who may help shep- herd revival. ued Elliff, “it seems, to pray primarily for gerly anticipating the revival prayer

Robert Stearns Jack Hayford Jane T.D. Jakes Paul Cedar Ravi Zacharias Kenneth Ron Luce Dave Butts Dick Eastman Kay Arthur Peter Fuler Marcos Barrientos Co-Chairman Co-Chairman Hansen-Hoyt The Potter’s House Mission America Ravi Zacharias Copeland Teen Mania Ministries America’s National Every Home for Precept Ministries Newsboys Centro Internationl The Day of Prayer for The Day of Prayer for AGLOW International International Kenneth Copeland Prayer Committee Christ International Aliento the Peace of Jerusalem the Peace of Jerusalem Ministries Ministries

JOIN OVER 175 NATIONS THAT WILL BE PRAYING THE FIRST SUNDAY OF EVERY OCTOBER

ADD YOUR VOICE! SIGNUP ONLINE TODAY!

VISIT WWW.DAYTOPRAY.COM A special Jerusalem Celebration will be broadcast live to over 200 nations and territories by www.god.tv

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 7 Show Me A Historical Look at How Prayer Turned the Tide in U.S. History

8 Premiere Issue 2011 By David Kubal

e all know the verse: “If my people who are called by my name. . . .” Go ahead and finish it. The words are so common they have become a cliché. We have said the verse enough and heard it enough, yet we often look at our country and wonder if our prayers are having any visible effect. Thankfully, history assures us that this verse is true, and that the powerful Word of God is never simply a cliché. When a nation comes together to pray, fast, and seek the will of God, things do happen. Here are three pivotal moments in our country’s history that demonstrate God’s desire to act when we contend in prayer for our nation.

Birth of a Nation It started with a bailout. Hungry for new sources of income, the British Crown ne- gotiated a payment of 400,000 pounds of tea each year from the British East India Company, a company that had developed a monopoly on the tea trade in British territory. When the agreement nearly drove the tea company into bankruptcy, Parliament passed a new tax contained in the Tea Act of May 10, 1773, meant to The subsidize the company with what many called a “legal bribe.” Proof

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 9 American colonists were infuri- resulted in revolt on December 16, with their fellow colonists to the north ated by the new measure and protested 1773—what is now known as the Bos- that they passed the following resolution when a blockade was set in place to en- ton Tea Party. that called for a day of fasting, humilia- force the monopoly in Boston’s harbor. The impact of these events was felt tion, and prayer: Samuel Adams, one of the fathers of the up and down the East Coast. Just a few American Revolution, was influential months after the Boston Tea Party, Vir- “This House, being deeply im- in sparking a grassroots movement that ginia legislators felt such a commonality pressed with apprehension of the

America’s Pentecost by Robert Bakke

opeless? Is our nation’s current situation John Adams and Thomas Jefferson was thought by many to be beyond fixing? Hardly. We’ve been here a political struggle for the soul and future of America. Many before. Christians were convinced that Jefferson was the antichrist. Among the first and greatest national An anti-Christian French Enlightenment was sweeping experiences of the United States was a through the intelligentsia (affecting publishing, schools, and massive spiritual awakening in the government). Worries about the “Reign of Terror” caused fear face of overwhelming problems. Consider these dire chal- of French terror cells. There was political unrest and riots in lenges that faced our nation preceding perhaps the greatest our cities. Federal troops were called on to quell anarchy. movement of God in our nation’s history. Universalism was sweeping away established churches, and most churches were empty. Pastors wrote that these were the Economic Disaster and Plagues worst times they ever could have imagined. Others wrote of The tragic after-effects of eight years of the War of Indepen- a “coarse sensuality” and intense partisanship in the land. Ir- dence with England were profound. The 1790s were years of religion was rampant on college campuses. In fact, on certain grave national doubts. We faced the enormous pressures of campuses, Bibles were publicly burned. At major schools only two superpowers on our borders (France and England) and a handful of students confessed being Christian. the constant threat of war. We teetered on the edge of national bankruptcy, exacer- A Spiritual Explosion bated by a banking crisis and a real estate speculation bubble What happened? The pastors began a movement of prayer. It that burst. Without the English navy, the U.S. had terrible was small at first, but it grew. After years of seeking God, in trouble with pirates interrupting our trade. Twenty percent 1801 a spiritual explosion took place that swept our nation of our annual national budget went to pay off Muslim pirates like a wildfire. Vanderbilt University historian Paul Conkin in North Africa, and the French and English were taking our calls it “America’s Pentecost.” Mark Noll, a historian special- ships in the North Atlantic. izing in the history of Christianity in the U.S., insists it was Plagues were killing thousands of our citizens. The Capitol our nation’s most important religious moment that changed the was moved from Philadelphia to Trenton, NJ, each spring to course of history. escape the banks of the Delaware River, thought to be the Hundreds of denominations were born and thousands source of illness there. The nation also teetered on the verge of churches were founded. Modern missions exploded on of famine because of diseases in crops. the scene, as well as tract and Bible societies. Abolition was launched. Hospitals, schools, and colleges were founded. The Political Unrest and Empty Churches awakening infiltrated every area of life and it spun out for The editorial pages and cartoons were among the most vicious nearly 50 years. The impact on our nation and around the in American history. Political rancor was fed by newspapers world was astounding. essentially owned by the political parties—rancor highlighted In the midst of similar problems today, we pray with hope by a duel between two prominent political figures, Aaron Burr and confidence. We have seen the glory of Christ before. ­ and Alexander Hamilton. The famous duel left Hamilton dead. — Dr. Robert Bakke is the senior teaching pastor of The nastiest presidential election in U.S. history between Hillside Church, Bloomington, MN.

10 Premiere Issue 2011 great dangers to be derived to British “. . . this small progress we have proclamation reveal Lincoln’s heart for America from the hostile invasion made after three or four weeks… eventual healing and restoration: of the city of Boston in our Sister [this] is proof of the imperfection of Colony of Massachusetts Bay, whose the Human Understanding…how “. . . I recommend . . . that while commerce and harbor are, on the has it happened that . . . we have not offering up the ascriptions justly to first day of June next, to be stopped once thought of applying to the Fa- Him for such singular deliverance by an armed force, deem it highly ther of lights to illuminate our un- and blessings, they do also, with necessary that the said first day of derstanding? In the beginning of the humble penitence for our national June be set apart, by members of this contest with Britain, when we were perverseness and disobedience . . . House, as a Day of Fasting, Humilia- in sensible of danger, we had daily and fervently implore the interposi- tion and Prayer, devoutly to implore prayers in the room for Divine pro- tion of the Almighty Hand to heal the Divine interposition, for averting tection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard, the wounds of the nation and restore America’s Pentecost the heavy calamity which threatens and they were graciously answered. it as soon as may be consistent with by Robert Bakke destruction to our civil rights and the . . . I therefore beg leave to move— the Divine purposes. . . .” evils of civil war, to give us one heart that henceforth prayers imploring the and mind . . . [Pray and fast] that the assistance of Heaven and its blessing One month later Chattanooga fell. minds of His Majesty and his Parlia- on our deliberation be held in this About half a year later Atlanta fell, fol- ment may be inspired from above assembly every morning. . . . ” lowed by the surrender of the Confed- with Wisdom, Moderation, Justice, eracy, thus ending this horrific war. A to remove from the loyal People of These comments were put into a National Day of Thanksgiving and Praise to America all cause of danger, from a formal motion that passed. Very shortly the Almighty Hand of our Lord was timely in continued pursuit of Measures, preg- after this, a breakthrough was achieved, ending bloodshed and securing freedom for the nant with their ruin. . . .” resulting in the writing of our Ameri- entire nation. can Constitution—the longest standing Less than three weeks later, Virginia constitution in the history of the world. The Urgency of Today called the colonies to form the Conti- Every day since Benjamin Franklin’s call for Certainly our nation is at a place of crisis nental Congress, the organizing body illumination from God, Congress has opened again. The political rancor is reaching behind the Revolutionary War. A day of with prayer. heightened extremes, with political par- fasting and prayer acted as a fulcrum for the ties disagreeing—at times bitterly—over emergence of a nation. Freedom for a Nation solutions to our economic and social The Battle of Chattanooga in Novem- woes. Abortion continues to be one of Breakthrough for a Nation ber of 1863 was a critical point in the the greatest blights of all time on our After the Revolutionary War, leaders Civil War. Up to this point, the south- country. The entertainment industry of the colonies met in Philadelphia at ern states seemed impenetrable. Consid- seems to know no boundaries, with Independence Hall to construct the uni- ered the “Gateway to the South,” a vic- children and families directly affected by fying document that would give birth to tory in Chattanooga meant that Atlanta regular exposure to indecency and vio- our nation. George Washington, James would be next, and then the defeat of lence. We seem ineffective at stopping Madison, and Noah Webster had met the Confederacy could quickly follow. the flow of drugs into our culture. before the assembly and were convinced Historians debate much over turning We are fighting wars on many dif- that the Articles of Confederation cur- points in the Civil War, but it is obvious ferent battle fronts, and the rhetoric of rently in use were not adequate. Repre- that there was a significant occurrence hatred with nation against nation grows sentatives presented numerous ideas, and just one month earlier on October 3, each day. We were deeply wounded in yet no one could reach an agreement. 1863. In the third year of the bloodiest September of 2001, and now we wait The whole process was on the verge of war in our nation’s history, with brother in apprehension for the next terrorist rupturing. fighting against brother and hundreds attack that might harm multitudes of On June 28, 1787, Benjamin Frank- of thousands dead, President Abraham Americans at any time. We are a nation lin (the oldest delegate present) asked Lincoln declared a “National Day of on edge. permission to address the assembly. At Thanksgiving and Praise.” Certainly the stresses and woes of our 81 years old, he had not lost his grati- The initial reaction had to be sur- nation today are comparable to critical tude for the One who directed them prise. How could people be thankful times in our nation in the past. Yet at during the early days of the Revolution: at a time like this? The words of the times it seems the Church is unaware of

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 11 the urgency of the day. We can seem par- accomplish His divine purposes in and “If at any time I announce that a na- alyzed in prayer, unsure that God’s Word through our nation? tion or kingdom is to be uprooted, still applies to our hopeless situations. Part of the answer to these questions torn down and destroyed, and if that is your understanding of His purposes. nation I warned repents of its evil, Might God Hear Our God always wants to accomplish good then I will relent and not inflict on Cries Again? things for a nation. His heart is always it the disaster I had planned. And if Could it happen again? Could we cry looking for reasons to bring mercy. He at another time I announce that a out to Almighty God that He would says in Jeremiah 18:7-10: nation or kingdom is to be built up and planted, and if it does evil in my sight and does not obey me, then I will reconsider the good I had in- tended to do for it.”

It is only in the final days that we would be praying against God’s will for the healing of our nation. According to Revelation 19:15, it is then that God’s wrath against nations will be fully real- ized and poured out:

“Out of his mouth comes a sharp www.prayershop.org sword with which to strike down the nations. ‘He will rule them with an iron scepter.’ He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.” Visit the Largest Prayer-Only

Store on the Internet But until then, can America be saved by prayer? The problems we are facing are too large for human under- standing. If we are to be saved, only We’re Everything God can do it. We have seen Him save our country in the past, and we Prayer! have no reason—either historical or biblical—to doubt that He would do it ■ Corporate Prayer again. ■ Bible Studies/Small Groups More than 650 Easy-to-Find Products ■ Personal Prayer “. . . if my people, who are called by my Organized ■ Intercession ■ Prayer Guides name, will humble themselves and pray and Topically ■ Spiritual Warfare seek my face and turn from their wicked ■ Prayer Ministry Teams ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will ■ Church ■ Women ■ Children forgive their sin and will heal their land” ■ ■ ■ PrayerShop Youth Men Conferences Sponsored by Publishing (2 Chron. 7:14). ■ Prayer Evangelism and Ch u r c h ■ 24 other categories Pr a y e r Le a d e r s Ne t w o r k David Kubal is President/ CEO of Intercessors for America, a ministry “uniting believers in effective prayer www.prayershop.org and fasting for America.” To learn more about historical Bible studies from the Country of Character Join the CPLN and save 20-40% on all products series go to getamericapraying.com.

12 Premiere Issue 2011 Recharge Your Prayer Life Experience time in God’s presence Be challenged and equipped to go deeper into prayer

—All at a prayer conference near you —

Eastern Regional September 9-10 | Batavia, NY Western Regional September 16-17 | San Jose, CA Midwest Regional October 7-8 | Terre Haute, IN Central Regional March 2-3 | Lima, OH

Keynote Speakers: Jennifer Kennedy Daniel Henderson Dave Butts Jonathan Graf Dean (Western) (Midwest) (Eastern, Central) (Eastern, Central)

Price: $45, Earlybird Rate: $36 CPLN Member Price: $36, Earlybird, $28 Calling for Host Churches Pastors and Spouses Half Price: $22.50 The CPLN is partnering with the National Day of Prayer Task Force to hold 7 regional (Multi Registration Discounts) conferences in 2012 and 2013. We are looking for churches in key states to host these events. Go to prayerleader.com Email [email protected] and click on CPLN events for more information. for information and to express Call 1-800-217-5200 or 1-812-238-5504 your possible interest.

Ch u r c h Sponsored by Pr a y e r Le a d e r s Harvest Prayer PrayerConnect Ministries Ne t w o r k Connecting to the Heart of Christ through Prayer The Story of Manchester, Kentucky

From Hopelessness to

14 Premiere Issue 2011 By Arlyn Lawrence

ou’re from Clay County? Oh . . .” A knowing comment and a condescending lift of the eyebrows were typical responses when someone admitted to being a resident of what was once the second poorest county in Kentucky and the fourth poorest in the nation. In 1964, CBS News gave the small city of Manchester—Clay County’s county seat—the title of “Depressed City, USA.” Forty years later, in 2004, nothing had changed; if anything, the situation was worse. The community was divided—not just physically by geography, but relationally by years of violent clan feuding. The churches were divided, marked by spiritual pride and parochial bickering that left them stripped of any real spiritual power or meaningful role in the public arena. Families were divided—destroyed by divorce, rampant drug and alcohol abuse, abandonment, suicide, and widespread crime. More people were incarcerated in

trans·form a: to change in composition b: to change the outward form City{c: to change in character of Hope

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 15 the local prison than resided in the town. Even law enforcement was divided and impotent, riddled with corruption and devoid of cooperation between its vari- ous agencies. From all visible signs, the scenario for Manchester, KY, was increasingly hopeless. A Desperate Place Out of sheer desperation, Christians began to pray together. One hundred to 150 of them started gathering on

Saturday mornings—fed up with the Thousands of people gathered to march and pray through Manchester. loss of far too many bright young lives due to drug overdoses. They were fully ours that we had given up because prepare for revival in the region, and also fed up with the corruption and the Church wasn’t doing what it was prayed words of healing over the land. the crime—fed up with drug dealers supposed to have done.” whose houses got more commercial One Methodist minister said at Taking a Stand and traffic than the local Wendy’s while the beginning of the prayer meetings, Welcoming Jesus law officials turned a blind eye. One “We need to pray for God to expose Two years later, those prayers came participant put it simply, “People just the darkness.” So they did. And God to powerful fruition on May 2 as 63 got tired of burying their kids.” responded. Little did the praying band churches and more than 3,500 people So they gathered, from all walks of believers know that God was already came together on a cold, rainy day to of life, praying across denominational moving powerfully behind the scenes march in the streets against drugs in lines—Presbyterians, Methodists, to break open the crime and corruption Manchester. Baptists, Charismatics, and Catholics. that had poisoned the community for so “ENOUGH!” roared the newspaper Even those who were not profess- long. Unbeknownst to anyone, the FBI headlines the next day, for that was the ing Christians showed up to pray, so had quietly moved into town and was battle cry, both practically and spiritu- great was their desperation. One pastor working intensely behind the scenes. ally. But John Becknell, president of reported, “People who had never done It is notable that those Saturday CCMP-TV in Manchester, says they that before were on their knees crying morning prayer gatherings were not the knew the march that day wasn’t just out to God—and all of a sudden you’re first foray into seeking spiritual solutions taking a stand against drugs. It was hugging a Presbyterian or a Methodist.” to the community’s practical difficulties. about welcoming Jesus as Lord of Clay Instead of focusing on their differences, On September 7, 2002, a historic prayer County and consciously re-enthroning they were focusing on their commonali- initiative took place at the Cumberland Him as the ruler over the land and ties: Jesus and their community’s problems. Gap, just 40 miles southeast of Man- people. Alongside the anti-drug ban- chester. That gathering brought several ners, marchers lifted high signs reading, Repenting and Exposing thousand intercessors from more than “Lord of Lords,” and “Jesus is Lord in Darkness 40 states and included representatives Clay County.” What did those desperate, united from Scotland, Ireland, and Wales—the Many people in Manchester will tell prayers look like? For one, participants ancestors of the original settlers who of their conviction that this climactic repented (as churches and individuals) traversed the Gap in the earliest years of prayer event broke the vice-like grip of for their passivity, disunity, and spiritual America’s history. drug addiction and other issues that had separatism that had robbed the Church The intercessors believed fervently tormented the daily life of the entire of its rightful role and responsibility that God would pour out His Spirit region. Within roughly two months, the in the community. “We weren’t [just] through the Gap just as hundreds of FBI closed in and made its move. trying to take back what the devil had thousands of pioneers had poured Subsequently, over the next several stolen,” says Pastor Doug Abner of through it centuries earlier. That day, years, more than 3,000 people were ar- Community Church in Manchester. ten cities in the Kentucky region banded rested, including drug dealers. Seventy “We were taking back what was right- together to form a prayer corridor to county officials were indicted. The

16 Premiere Issue 2011

Why Don’t We See More Community mayor, city supervisor, council mem- bers, commissioners, assistant police Transformations in America? chief, fire chief, county clerks, and even a circuit judge presiding over three counties, were exposed and jailed for racketeering, distributing drugs, and ommunity transformation is an extraordinary season in voter fraud. Corrupt members of the which the Kingdom and presence of God pervade virtually police and sheriff departments were every institution of the community’s life. In recent years, exposed, prosecuted, and sent to prison. prayer-related transforming revivals have been documented New, stable, and accountable govern- in Guatemala, Brazil, Fiji, Uganda, and many other nations ment was instated, which has had far- around the world. reaching effects. The uniqueness of the story of Manchester, KY, is that it is currently the only documented example of transforming revival that meets these criteria in True Transformation America. Why? It’s hard to say. In fact, residents of Manchester will But here are some possibilities, according to George Otis, Jr., of the Sentinel be the first to tell you there has been Group: a distinct “before” and “after” in the community—before the prayer started, • Western Christians tend to lack the childlike, cause-and-effect faith that before the march, and after. And that people groups such as the Fijians and Africans consistently demonstrate. before and after effect can best be de- • The sophistication of Western Christians often contributes to the scribed as transformation: “hedging of bets,” so to speak, and the mindset that we cannot say anything about God or expect anything of God with certainty. • Crime and corruption have dimin- • Westerners don’t seem to be as willing to put themselves “on the ished dramatically throughout the clock” as other cultures that have experienced documented community community. transformation. Fijians, by contrast, will call a 21-day corporate • Economic conditions have improved, repentance and fast and fully expect that when the fast is broken, God leading to a discernible lessening of will show up in some way. The reality is, He generally does—and usually poverty. within 48 hours. It’s always different and always unpredictable, but always • New laws, school curricula, and distinctly God. business practices have been put into effect. So what are the implications for us in America? What are some ways we can • Political leaders have publicly ac- reach out to God on behalf of our communities and expect to see His hand in knowledged their previous sin and our midst? their renewed dependence on God. • Restored hope and joy have led to a Consecrate and Humble Yourselves marked decline in divorce, bank- The Bible teaches that when God wants to reveal Himself to His people on ruptcy, and suicide. a corporate level, He first asks them to examine and humble themselves on • Secular media and government have an individual level. “Consecrate yourselves,” Joshua told the Israelites, “for confirmed growing social and politi- tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you” (Josh. 3:5). Consecrate cal renewal. means “to purify”—to make a person free from guilt or moral blemish. We • Volunteerism has increased as Chris- purify ourselves through humility, confession of sin, and repentance. tians have recognized their responsi- In this account, God wanted to do something wonderful for the community bility to care for their community. as a whole. But first, He asked them to purify themselves individually. This • Large numbers of local drug deal- meant careful self-examination, humility, honest confession, and earnest ers and addicts have surrendered repentance of any revealed sin. Then the people were ready to come together their lives to Jesus Christ and been corporately to experience God’s presence. dramatically delivered from drug As many of the people in the Manchester story will testify, it is as we humble addiction. ourselves before the Lord and repent individually that we have the platform to • In 2007, the city council voted to come together to repent and pray corporately. When we do, we cultivate a spiritual change the name of the city to Man- appetite and atmosphere in which the Lord can do amazing things among us! chester: City of Hope. —Arlyn Lawrence

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 17 Are you working to

• The city has become a regional influ- can be a tendency to rest on one’s laurels ence, receiving desperate calls from (or one’s blessings) and take for granted grow 49 different states and five foreign what God has done. The key, Otis says, prayer in nations, all soliciting guidance in is to stay in humility, stay in dependence their own battles against drugs. on the Lord, and stay in prayer. your church? With this principle in mind, both George Otis, Jr., of the Sentinel church and civic leaders in Manchester Group, has documented the transfor- are taking seriously the responsibility to mation of Manchester, KY, in his most stay in prayer and unity. Because of it, recent documentary, An Appalachian God’s presence and work are still being Dawn. After thousands of hours of keenly felt and observed in the public The research, interviewing, filming, edit- arena in Manchester. Ch u r c h ing, and the resulting video production How do we know if God is respond- Pr a y e r Le a d e r s of the dramatic and moving story, Otis ing to prayers for transformation, as was says that much of the story still remains evidenced in Manchester? What should Ne t w o r k untold. “It was the hardest story for us any of us who are praying for trans- to tell,” he recounts, “because where do formation in our own communities be I start? What is the best angle? There are looking for? “Really,” reflects Otis, “we can help! so many possibilities. I can’t even begin don’t always see right away everything to overstate what God has done here.” that God is doing in response to our The CPLN provides After having observed and/or prayers. Sometimes He’s moving behind encouragement, resources documented transforming revivals in the scenes in response to our prayers in and practical ideas to help more than 700 communities around the ways we can’t even see—yet. When He world, Otis agrees that Manchester, KY, does manifest His presence, you’ll always pastors and local church prayer is a classic example—and all the more know it, not just by the nature of His re- leaders develop prayer exciting because it is in America. It’s sponse, but by its magnitude and force.” in their churches. an example of what happens, he says, when people take seriously what God Attracting God’s Attention An annual membership promises in 2 Chronicles 7:14: “. . . if But while God’s response to our prayers includes: my people who are called by my name may vary from community to com- • Prayer Leader Online, a monthly email will humble themselves and pray and seek munity, what remain constant are the newsletter of helps and inspiration my face and turn from their wicked ways, I things He says attract His attention and • 20-30% discounts on most products will hear from heaven and will forgive His presence. These are the very things at prayerleader.com • 20% discounts on conference their sins and restore their land” (NLT, the Manchester churches set into mo- registration fees emphasis added). tion, whether they realized it or not at • A password-protected section of our That’s exactly what happened in the time. They realized the problems website, full of ideas and targeted information Manchester: Confession. Repentance. were spiritual, not just physical. They to equip and challenge you in your ministry Humbling. Action. united in desperation and repentance. • Join now and receive $16 in free “People in this story who, from a They began to pray for a solution. And resources—the book My House Shall Be a House of Prayer and a CD of Jon Graf theological perspective are oil and wa- they started taking action. teaching on “Developing a Prayer Strategy ter, are joined at the hip in what God is The resulting transformation is for Your Church.” (This offer may end fall doing,” says Otis. “That’s a hallmark of beyond the scope of most people’s abil- of 2011.) genuine revival.” ity to describe. Perhaps John Becknell’s simple assessment says it best. He just Annual Memberships Available Returning to Repentance, tells people, “God tabernacled here.” Individual Membership $30 Prayer, and Unity Church Membership $60 What’s going on in Manchester these Arlyn Lawrence is the co-author of Prayer-Saturated days? Now, seven years after the original Go to prayerleader.com and click on Kids, and was a contributing prayer meetings and the march, they’re memberships for more information. editor to Pray! magazine. getting back to repentance, reports Otis. 1-800-217-5200, 1-812-238-5504 As with all movements of God, there

18 Premiere Issue 2011

Praying God’s Purposes Using the Scriptures to Pray for a Nation

20 Premiere Issue 2011 By Dave and Kim Butts

o you long to see God work in a healing and restoring way in our nation? As the chairman of America’s National Prayer Committee, I (Dave) intersect with prayer leaders across our nation. Our hearts are growing increasingly urgent about the need to pray for God’s mercy and grace in our country. As my wife Kim and I prayed over and discussed this article together, we had questions. How do we pray for America? What can we ask of God, given the history of our nation, the ways we are currently grieving God, and the many ways God has blessed us both today and in the past? Suddenly I felt led to pray. This is the simple prayer that the Lord put on my heart. If it resonates with your heart, I invite you to join me in praying for America in this way:

Lord, How would You have me pray for my nation? I watch with horror as we increasingly turn from Your ways. Your precious Word speaks so strongly to our situation: “The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men” (Ps. 12:8). The Psalmist David again asks the right question for our day, “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Ps. 11:3). God’s Purposes for America

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 21 Ministries with Focus on Prayer for America continued from page 21 It is because I love the United States of America that I pray with passion for her. Lord, You have greatly blessed our nation. From our Presidential Prayer Team beginning, there have been those in The Presidential Prayer Team was established in 2001 to pray for the president, leadership who have honored You national leaders, and Armed Forces. The website includes prayer for weekly and sought to lead us in righteous- featured leaders, 24/7 prayer watch with updated news items, a prayer wall to ness. You have made us a beacon for submit written prayers, and weekly teaching on prayer. (Phone: 866.433.PRAY; freedom around the world for those presidentialprayerteam.com) who are oppressed and downtrod- den. The material blessings from Intercessors for America Your hand have welled up in na- IFA’s goal is to inform and mobilize Christian intercessors across the nation to tional generosity to help those who pray for local and national concerns. The website includes a 24-hour prayer wall, are hurting, both within and outside daily updated national prayer concerns, prayer resources, and information about our borders. local prayer groups. (Phone: 540.317.2070; getamericapraying.com) We recognize our imperfect hu- man nature and structures. While Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation fighting for freedom, we had periods The Congressional Prayer Caucus Foundation (CPCF), a non-profit, non- of slavery within our own nation. partisan organization, works alongside elected officials who are calling America Even with slavery behind us, free- back to prayer and trust in God. Its mission is to preserve our Judeo-Christian dom was not always available to all heritage and protect the religious liberty of all Americans. (Phone: 757.546.2190; in the same measure. The list of our cpcfoundation.com) sins, Lord, is long. Without Your mercy, who could stand? National Day of Prayer Throughout our nation’s his- This annual observance (on the first Thursday of May) was created in 1952 tory You have blessed us with times by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President Harry of spiritual awakening and revival. Truman. Its mission is to mobilize prayer in America and to encourage personal Your Spirit moved in our midst to repentance and righteousness in the culture. Cities and states across the nation restore godly worship. You empow- host prayer observances on this day, with an emphasis on prayer for America ered Your people to be witnesses to and its leadership in government, military, media, business, education, church, Your truths and to take stands for and family. The website lists local gatherings and provides prayer resources. righteousness and justice. (nationaldayofprayer.org) Oh God, do it again! Come upon Your people again in reviving power. Capitol Hill Prayer Alert Before our nation can be changed, As a network of praying believers, this ministry focuses on the need for repen- our hearts must be changed. Turn us tant, heart-felt prayer for another Great Awakening in America. This group from selfishness and sin to Your lov- combines access to Christian political authorities with the study of biblical the- ing ways. ology to inform intercessors of pertinent prayer needs on Capitol Hill. Their Your Word tells us, Lord, that prayer alerts encourage intercessors to pray in agreement with a biblical focus. judgment begins in the house of the (prayeralert.org) Lord (1 Peter 4:17). May Your mercy and grace also begin there. Pour out a Prayer Force One spirit of repentance upon the Church Described as “America’s Flagship for Prayer,” Prayer Force One is a national in America. Forgive us for making Christian ministry that seeks to unite America’s praying majority. They host two our faith more about us and our com- prayer meetings: 1) a virtual online prayer meeting with panoramic view of the fort and preferences than about Your White House, and 2) prayer the Sunday before a presidential election. The min- purposes on planet earth. Fill our istry also owns a converted Greyhound bus that they drive around the country to pulpits with godly preachers who will promote prayer for revival in the nation. (prayerforceone.com) proclaim Your Word fearlessly.

22 Premiere Issue 2011 A Daily Prayer Pattern for Strategic Areas of Our Nation

ow can we pray ef- teousness exalts a nation, but sin is a dis- 5. Arts and Entertainment: cre- fectively for the Unit- grace to any people” (Prov. 14:34). See ativity, godliness, sensitivity to the Spirit. ed States every day? also: Ps. 34:15; Ps. 89:14. “See, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son Rather than simply of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe praying, “God bless 2. Media: love for truth, fairness, of Judah, and he has filled him with America” and hoping for the best, we godly standards. “Then you will know the Spirit of God, with skill, ability can begin to pray God’s purposes and the truth and the truth will set you and knowledge in all kinds of crafts” plans more strategically over the key in- free” (John 8:32). See also: Ps. 51:6; (Ex.35:30). See also: Is. 51:11, Eccl. 3:4. fluencers in our country. Zech. 8:16. Many Christians are using the idea 6. Family: commitment to relationships, of seven centers of power as a guideline 3. Business: integrity, wisdom, generos- holiness, bringing up children in God’s ways. for their prayers. Here are some simple ity. “Do not use dishonest standards when “He [an overseer] must manage his own prayer points you can use to pray over measuring length, weight or quantity” family well and see that his children these vital areas in our nation. Look up (Lev. 19:35). See also: Prov. 3:9-10. obey him with proper respect” (1 Tim. the Scriptures and use them to expand 3:4). See also: Deut. 11:19; Eph. 5:22-33. your prayers. 4. Education: biblical standards, love for children, gifted teachers. “When Jesus 7. Church: revival, holiness, love for Daily Prayer Points for the Seven had finished saying these things, the truth, passion for Jesus, evangelistic fervor, Centers of Power and Influence in crowds were amazed at his teaching, compassionate ministry. “Repent, then, the United States: because he taught as one who had au- and turn to God, so that your sins may thority, and not as their teachers of the be wiped out, that times of refreshing l. Government: righteousness, laws law” (Matt. 7:28-29). See also: Deut. may come from the Lord” (Acts 3:19). based on God’s moral law, justice. “Righ- 4:9; Prov. 10:14. See also: Joel 2:12-14; Ps. 85:4-7. —Dave and Kim Butts

We will respond to Your Word Blessed is the nation whose God name. May your unfailing love rest as those who are called by Your is the Lord, the people he chose upon us, O Lord, even as we put our name, humbling ourselves before for his inheritance. From heaven hope in you (Ps. 33:12-22). You and in prayer, seeking Your face the Lord looks down and sees all and turning from our wicked ways. mankind; from his dwelling place he May the Lord renew our hope to pray Father, will You then hear from watches all who live on earth—he for our nation according to His Word heaven and forgive our sin and heal who forms the hearts of all, who and the leading of the Holy Spirit. our land (2 Chron. 7:14)? considers everything they do. We ask this in the powerful name No king is saved by the size of Dave and Kim Butts are of Jesus! Amen. his army; no warrior escapes by his the founders of Harvest Prayer Ministries. Dave is also great strength. A horse is a vain hope the chairman of America’s Praying Scripture for for deliverance; despite all its great National Prayer Commit- Our Nation strength, it cannot save. tee, which seeks to provide collective servant leadership Praying for any nation requires that we But the eyes of the Lord are on to the national prayer move- lay down our desires and take up God’s those who fear him, on those whose ment. Both Dave and Kim desires for that nation. In addition to hope is in his unfailing love, to de- are gifted “prayer guide” de- velopers. Among their works liver them from death and keep them praying those things that God puts on are Asleep in the Land of Nod, our hearts, we also need to learn to pray alive in famine. a 30-day revival prayer guide by Dave, and the Scripture over a nation. Here is a pow- We wait in hope for the Lord; he new work from both authors, Revolution on Our erful Scripture to pray on behalf of our is our help and our shield. In him our Knees: 30 Days of Prayer for Neighbors and Na- tions. Both are available at prayershop.org. nation: hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 23 n t e n C o d i ng i n

When You Need a Higher Level of Intercession

24 Premiere Issue 2011 n t e n C o d i ng i n By Carol Madison

Ar e y o u w i l l i n g t o c o n t e n d f o r it? Situated on a hill, this townhome has the best view over a community in PrayerI sensed the Lord posing this question when Minnesota. The deck extends out with an unobstructed view over the down- I discovered I lost my chance at buying a new townhome. town and other key places in the city. The third-story windows give an even I had persistently prayed for God’s favor regarding this higher perspective. God was inviting me to a special place of intercession on be- home, but now the Lord was inviting me to a new level of half of the people of this community. However, when I first felt led to intercession—that of contending. the home, it was not for sale. Yet I felt strongly I was to live in this specific This was an unusual home-buying situation. I was inter- townhome. Other homes in the complex came up for sale, but I chose not to look at them. The Lord placed the prayer ested in this particular townhome for one reason: obedience assignment and this home deep within my heart. So for months I drove by the to God. I didn’t necessarily want to move, as I was content townhome, praying and asking the Lord to make a way for me to buy it. with my current home. But several months earlier God di- One day as I pulled up in front of the home to pray, I discovered that it was rected me to this townhome for a unique prayer assignment, on the market! I called my real estate agent, only to learn with quick dismay so I was willing to move. that another offer on the home had been accepted and the sale was pending only a final inspection. Suddenly the home I When You Need a Higher Level of Intercession was praying and waiting for was gone. I was devastated and expressed my

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 25 t ren ur e c t th ccep ! ot a ht By ill n fig conte we w felt nding, we a g God that art- re assurin ut a he circumstances witho disappointment to the Lord. That’s the control of a port.”3 That summed know that you, O Lord, are God, and when I heard Him say, “Are you willing up how I felt in my prayers—that I was that you are turning their hearts back to contend for it?” I answered, “Yes,” not wrestling with spiritual powers in a again” (vs. 37). knowing what that meant. But for the battle over strategic land and a desperate next few days, I was quickly mentored community. by the Lord in true contending in prayer For whatever God’s reasoning, this Stop Contending for His Kingdom purposes. townhome and its location were im- At the three-day mark of fasting and portant. (Just across the road from the praying, these words suddenly flashed Contending for townhome is the international head- through my mind: “It’s over. Stop con- quarters for a cult organization; I knew tending and start worshiping Me with praise Strategic Territory this was part of my prayer assignment.) and thanksgiving.” I was skeptical that I I had persisted in prayer for many months, Long ago God determined this was the was hearing the Lord. Again, the same asking God to give me the townhome. I place that I should live and pray on be- words whispered through my spirit. I was reminded of the “persistent widow” half of the city. asked the Lord to confirm in His Word story of Luke 18, in which the widow that He was speaking to me. pursues the judge over and over again, A Quick Contending opened my Bible “random- continuing past the normal or expected time.1 ly” and it fell open to Exo- Jesus praises this kind of repetition in Lesson dus 33:17, where God said prayer by telling the disciples to “always With greater understanding that I was to Moses: “I will indeed do pray and not give up” (vs. 1). involved in a spiritual battle, I began what you have asked, for In the same way, I asked the Lord to fast and pray continuously. When I youI have found favor with me, and you over and over again for the town- was in my car, I prayed. I turned off my are my friend” (NLT). A peace rushed home—and then I waited. But now television at home and prayed. I prayed through my soul, and I knew that God that I had clearly lost the townhome to as I fell asleep, and immediately when I had done it. The victory had come. someone else, I felt the Lord inviting me woke up. I was consumed moment by Less than an hour later, my agent to a whole new level of prayer. moment in desperate prayer. Through called to say that we actually had a “long he idea of contend- daily email updates, I invited family and shot” at getting the townhome because of ing was new to friends to contend in prayer with me. a minor problem with the home inspec- me. Somehow it My fervent prayer wasn’t because I tion. The garbage disposal was too loud, seems different; wanted a new home. This was about but the sellers were refusing to deal with more strategic, God’s Kingdom purposes and His glory! the current buyer over that little issue. desperate,T and urgent. Jude uses the I was suddenly passionate for God to Eventually, to the surprise of every- term “contend” (vs. 3) when he urges demonstrate Himself in a way that no one, the buyer defaulted over that insig- believers to “contend for the faith.” one could deny. I prayed every way the nificant problem—and the townhome This contending admonition refers to an Lord put on my heart, including spiri- was mine. And just to add to God’s intense effort in a wrestling match.2 Watch- tual warfare prayers, agonizing prayers favor, the sellers replaced the garbage ing a wrestling match gives a very vivid with tears, and prayers modeled after disposal for me, without my even asking! picture of contending, as there is an biblical giants of the faith. ongoing struggle to maintain control or I pleaded with God to show Himself victory over an opponent. Neither par- powerful. Using Elijah’s prayer when Yes, God Was in It! ticipant is willing to give up until one is he confronted the prophets of Baal in At the closing, I asked God for an op- clearly pinned or defeated. 1 Kings 18, I implored God to answer portunity to tell my story to the unsus- Another definition of contend con- in such a way that people would know pecting sellers. I cautiously shared that I veys the idea of “striving against a ri- He was at work in this. “Answer me, O had prayed for months about their town- valry or contending with an enemy for Lord, answer me, so these people will home. I told them I believed God was

26 Premiere Issue 2011 calling me to pray over the city from heart that is willing to be guided by the For the past five years I have prayed— that vantage point. Holy Spirit. with the best view over the city. For as Their response confirmed that I had long as God keeps me here, I will faith- heard the Lord correctly. The wife ex- fully pray for revival and spiritual awak- claimed in astonishment: “We had no A Good Risk! ening of my community. Often I pray by intention of moving, but one day I woke When it comes to contending in prayer myself, other times people join me in my up and told my husband, ‘We have to and desperately wanting Christ’s glory living room or they prayer walk with me. move!’ We had just finished redecorating demonstrated to all, the risk is worth If God calls you to contend in prayer the home, but I felt an urgency to move. the investment of your heart and soul! A for certain situations, you can trust that In fact, we put the house on the market wrestler does not approach the mat with He has a greater purpose. You can also that day, and then bought the first house the thought of simply forfeiting because trust Him to teach you how to be faith- we looked at!” he thinks he is overmatched and might ful to that call. He just needs to know Everyone, including our agents, sat lose. He brings all his training, strength, that you are willing to contend for it! stunned for a moment. Then the sellers’ and heart to the match with the hope 1. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. agent spoke for all of us when she said, that he can overcome his opponent. 2. NIV Bible Commentary, Vol. 2: New Testament, Kenneth Barker and John R. Kolenberger III, “I had no idea I was a part of something In the same way, by contending we consulting editors. Zondervan, 1994, pg. 1120. so big.” are calling upon God to release His 3. Dictionary.com Unabridged

power and resources to overcome any Carol Madison is the editor opposition. The outcome rests with the of Prayer Connect. She has For the Glory of Christ Lord, but His invitation always stands: been involved in the prayer movement in the Minneapolis, God taught me a lesson in contending “And will not God bring about justice for MN, area for many years, most prayer. There are times to pray steadily his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and recently with the Global Day and faithfully with persistence, but there night?” (Luke 18:7). of Prayer MN and Prayer First. are other times when God stirs within us a passion to contend as though Jesus’ name and glory are at stake. ore and more challenges are facing believ- Can Prayer ers, churches, and even our Mnation. We are increasingly aware that Save America? intense spiritual battles are confronting us. Greater urgency and determination As we pray . . . God will heal. rise up in us as we pray: “Not my child; Yes! not my family; I will not give in to Satan’s scorn and destruction intended for my As we come into an important election year, as we con- church!” By contending, we are assuring tinue to see turmoil and uncertainty in our economy, as God that we will not accept the current cir- we see the moral compass of America continue to erode, cumstances without a heart-felt fight! it is time to pray as never before. If your heart is broken over a seem- ingly hopeless situation, ask the Lord We believe God wants to transform our nation again, as we if you are to “contend” over it. If God cry out to Him. responds by stirring within you a pas- sion to contend in prayer for a specific Let Prayer Connect encourage your people to pray. Host a Prayer circumstance (a devastated marriage, a for America Weekend in 2012. friend with a hardened heart, a child in rebellion), know that there is no “text- book contending.” This cry of your Go to prayerconnect.net for mor e soul, this desperate longing for spiritual information. Click on Prayer for America Weekend. victory, must be done with a humble

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 27 TIPS&Tools Ideas to Stimulate Prayer

Combining the Power of Prayer and Social Media

ifting up the world one friend build a discipline of consistency. Tallies of “ at a time” is the tag line of friends who have been prayed for provide a new Facebook application encouragement through quantitative feed- L Lifting Up the World...One Friend at a Time called “Praybook.” With more than back for the user to see the impact he or 550 million people worldwide using the ers to be consistent in their prayers for she is having on the lives of friends. Users social media of Facebook, an applica- others. Automatic daily prayer lists, are also encouraged to pray with greater tion that encourages friends to pray for generated from the user’s Facebook faith through a daily devotional thought friends has the potential of generating an friend list, help the user pray through that speaks to the power of prayer. explosive prayer movement. all of his or her friends faithfully. Users Tim Lehmann, the founder of Pray- can then notify friends of their prayers Great Potential book, explains his reason for creating with a message on their Facebook walls. Praybook users have the potential to the application. “I had more than 500 Lehmann sees this ongoing prayer as a blanket millions of people simply by friends on Facebook and I was ignoring catalyst for further relationship building friends praying for friends, including Chris- every one of them. I began to wonder and even evangelism. tian and non-Christians friends. Leh- what God might do if I prayed for them Praybook users can also input their mann foresees Praybook notifications consistently. Social media has provided own specific prayer requests to the as a catalyst for spiritual conversations an amazing opportunity. Never before friends in their network. In the same encouraging evangelistic outreach. “The have we been able to reach so many, so way, they can see and pray for requests power of God through a family of faith- quickly. Praybook can direct that power posted by their friends. For urgent prayer ful praying friends has the power to of social media into a spiritual format to requests, a special alert is displayed for change the world,” he says. multiply the power of prayer.” the user’s entire Praybook network, call- Praybook is a free application. To learn ing many together to pray for that need. more, visit their Facebook fan page Special Features of Praybook A 30-day challenge is issued when facebook.com/PraybookApp or visit the Praybook organizes and motivates us- the user engages Praybook, which helps website at praybook.com.

How to Get the Most People Praying

hurches are often looking for prayer guides, sermon helps, and even for the City does not provide extra ma- ways to encourage prayer among promotional materials. terials for churches, its strength is the Ctheir people. A great way to get For best results, the initiative needs solid Scripture-based prayers its guide the most people praying is to design a advance planning behind it, leadership provides. Each day your people will prayer initiative—praying on a theme for support, and plenty of promotion. Initia- focus on praying Kingdom prayers for a set period of time. Prayer initiatives dis- tives work best when a pastor’s preaching your church, neighborhoods, commu- ciple people to move beyond fix-it prayers series goes along with the emphasis. nity, nation, and world. In the process— for their own needs, and instead pray Here are three initiatives that Prayer besides the spiritual ramifications in Kingdom-focused prayers that seek the Connect recommends. Each has a differ- the heavenly realms—your people will power, blessing, and purposes of God. ent level of support for a church. learn to pray Scriptures that fulfill God’s Many denominations or organizations Seek God for the City. purposes! There is also a downloadable encourage a week of prayer or develop This prayer initiative is children’s prayer guide. For more infor- materials for a 30- or 40-day prayer put on every year during mation, go to waymakers.org. emphasis. A church can develop its own the Lenten season. It lasts 40 Days of Prayer using Love to initiative, but there are lots of good ones 40 days, ending on Palm Pray. This is by far the most complete available, complete with Scripture-based Sunday. While Seek God prayer initiative on the market. It has

28 Premiere Issue 2011 TIPS&Tools

a resource kit with ser- Revolution on Our mon outlines, promo Knees: 30 Days of pieces, DVD of teaching Prayer for Neighbors presentations for Sunday and Nations. This new school classes or small prayer guide encour- groups, and a children’s ages believers to pray version of the guide. daily for God’s purposes It mainly uses the 40-day devotional to be released around them. Its content prayerconnect.net Love to Pray by Alvin VanderGriend, a focuses on the moving of God’s Spirit 100,000-plus selling product that cov- in a church, prayer for lost friends and ers great basic theology of prayer and neighbors, and the completion of the encourages praying beyond fix-it needs. Great Commission. Go to prayershop.org Go to 40daysofprayer.net for information. for more information. All your prayer connection needs Modern Technology Meets Prayer in one place. Evangelism Connect with Jesus Connect with resources any churches today are using A Member Survey on the catch phrase “Prayer- Neighborhood Outreach Connect with praying people M Care-Share” (which comes 3 that recruits your congregants from the Lighthouse movement of the to participate in prayer-care-share. late ’90s and early part of this century). A 20-30 Closest Neigh- The idea is to encourage members to bors List that is provided to first pray for their neighbors’ salvation, 4 each member. This gives each next look for ways to care for them, and participant in prayer-care-share his or finally gain an opportunity to share Je- her neighbors’ names in street-walking sus Christ with them. order so he or she can pray for them by Now the Mapping Center for Evan- name. It also gives them information gelism and Church Growth has released helpful in meeting their neighbors. a technology tool that can help church- A 10 Closest Member Re- es make it easier for their people to port that shows each member reach their neighbors through Prayer- 5 which other church members Care-Share. Called the “5 Mission Tool live close to them. This can be valuable Kit,” this resource offers important up- in increasing fellowship, and in joining to-date data that can make your church Christian neighbors together to pray for and praying members more effective. their other neighbors. For a $99 one-time purchase you get Most believers recognize the impor- the following: tance of praying for lost people around Drive-Time Map that shows them, and neighbors are potentially the your church homes with over- most responsive due to relationships. 1 lays defining how far you can When a church can provide information drive from the church building in 10, 20 to help its members pray more effectively, or 30 minutes. prayer will be sustained over the long Church Home Cluster haul and a church is more likely to see Analysis that divides your people come to Christ as a result. 2 mission field into ZIP+2 areas Go to MappingCenter.org/5MissionTools with a strategic analysis, showing where for more information on how this resource your congregants live and where they might help the prayer and evangelism ef- are clustered in neighborhoods. forts of your congregation.

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 29 PrayerLeader Encouragement for Prayer Mobilizers

The Voice of Experience | By Jonathan Graf

rayer Connect asked seven is] no better partner than the Holy “Add a 4- or 6- to 8-week prayer train- national-level prayer leaders— Spirit to ensure a strong and successful ing course that provides people the op- individuals who regularly ministry of prayer,” he says. “The Spirit portunity to do exactly what Jesus’ first- mentor and equip local prayer knows how to lead us, individually and century disciples wanted to do: learn to Pleaders—to answer this question: corporately, in the what, why, and how of pray,” comments Conner. “This practi- praying. So, next time you are praying cal step has made a huge difference in What is one thing you would like or preparing or planning, or anything, the churches that have done this. Their to say to local church prayer leaders invite the Spirit of the Lord to fill you people become much more confident to help them be more successful in (assume control, Eph. 5:18), to grant you of how to pray more effectively. This their ministries? the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16), and to course should be offered on a continual enable you to pray [as though seated] in basis, so all the people have a chance to Several leaders encourage prayer the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6).” go through it.” leaders not to give up or worry about Expanding on the thought of pray- Chotka, too, believes in the power small numbers. “Don’t get discouraged ing for yourself as a prayer leader, Den- of training, but he adds that you should over low numbers,” said Doug Small, nis Conner of Called to Serve, adds the start by using Jesus’ plan—training those liaison to the overseer for prayer for the idea of praying regularly “for the ‘spirit who can then train others. Jesus got Church of God (Cleveland, TN). “Go of prayer’ to fall upon the pastor, staff, alone with God; then He chose 12 to after a core of people.” and church leaders.” This regular prayer mentor, three of whom were especially Tom Swank, pastor and prayer pattern can change the spiritual dynam- close to Him. Encourage those you train leader in the Missionary Church, agrees. ics of a church as God brings a vision to train others. “Never give up! The stakes are incred- for prayer to its leadership. ibly high. There are too many lost Prayer, Perseverance, and People people for us to abandon our prayer sta- Recruit, Train, and Assist The bottom line: You simply cannot tions or cease to recruit others to join in Several other prayer leaders offer ideas lead a prayer ministry if you are not praying the Lord of the harvest to send to help recruit. “Ask God to call out a convinced of the importance and power workers. . . . When it seems you are prayer team, with representation from of prayer. Let your own prayer life dem- the only one praying, never give up. . . . the various areas of the church, to help onstrate that you believe God’s promise When others don’t understand your per- draw members to participate in prayer to hear the prayers of those who seek sistence in prayer, don’t give up.” opportunities,” says Elaine Helms, the Him with humble hearts. former national prayer director of the Then determine that you will not Check Your Own Heart Southern Baptist Convention, now with give up, regardless of the response to Phil Miglioratti and Alvin Vander- Church Prayer Ministries. “When a your invitations to pray. Persevere with Griend both emphasize that prayer is member offers an idea for an avenue of the belief that one day God will demon- essential to the prayer leader's ministry. prayer, ask how you may assist in get- strate His answers to your heart cries. “Pray much and pray often for yourself,” ting that started. As you meet with the And finally, always be thinking about says VanderGriend, chairman of the De- staff member regularly to encourage and bringing others along with you in this nominational Prayer Leaders Network. equip him or her to lead that area of the exciting prayer journey. Look for those “[Ask] for the spiritual riches that God ministry, you grow your prayer team you can mentor in prayer. Trust that the has for you in Christ—all the things He naturally while mentoring a new leader.” Lord will awaken His people to greater is eager to give to those who ask in ac- Conner and David Chotka, a na- prayer if you are faithful as a leader. cordance with his will (1 Jn. 5:14-15).” tional prayer leader and pastor with the Miglioratti of the National Pastors Christian and Missionary Alliance of Jonathan Graf is the director of the Prayer Network emphasizes the vital Canada, both talked about the impor- Church Prayer Leaders Network and the publisher of Prayer Connect. importance of the Holy Spirit. “[There tance of teaching and training others.

30 Premiere Issue 2011 Classics Time-tested Truths

The Benefits of Time in Prayer | By E.M. (Edward) Bounds

ur devotions are not measured by the clock, but time is of their Who Truly Prays? Few men there are who pray. In these essence. Short devotions deplete spiritual vigor, arrest spiritual days of hurry and bustle, of electric- progress, sap spiritual foundations, blight the root and bloom of ity and steam, men will not take time O to pray. Preachers there are who “say spiritual life. They are the prolific source of backsliding, the sure indication of prayers” as a part of their program, on a superficial piety; they deceive, blight, rot the seed, and impoverish the soil. regular or state occasions; but who “stirs himself up to take hold upon God”? It is true that Bible prayers in word It takes good time for the full flow Who prays as Jacob prayed—till he is and print are short, but the praying men of God into the spirit. It takes time in the crowned as a prevailing, princely inter- of the Bible were with God through secret places to get the full revelation of God. cessor? Who prays as Elijah prayed—till many a sweet and holy wrestling hour. More time and early hours for prayer all the locked-up forces of nature were They won by few words but long wait- would act like magic to revive and in- unsealed and a famine-stricken land ing. The prayers Moses records may be vigorate many a decayed spiritual life. A bloomed as the garden of God? short, but Moses prayed to God with holy life would not be so rare or so dif- Who [prays] as Jesus Christ prayed fastings and mighty cryings forty days ficult a thing if our devotions were not as out upon the mountain He “contin- and nights. so short and hurried. ued all night in prayer to God”? The The statement of Elijah’s praying Our ability to stay with God in our apostles “gave themselves to prayer”— may be condensed to a few brief para- closet measures our ability to stay with the most difficult thing to get men or graphs, but doubtless Elijah, who when God out of the closet. Hasty closet visits even the preachers to do. Laymen there “praying he prayed,” spent many hours are deceptive, defaulting. We are not are who will give their money—some of of fiery struggle and lofty intercourse only deluded by them, but we are losers them in rich abundance—but they will with God before he could, with assured by them in many ways and in many rich not “give themselves” to prayer, without boldness, say to Ahab, “There shall not legacies. Tarrying in the closet instructs which their money is but a curse. be dew nor rain these years, but accord- and wins. The greatest victories are of- ing to my word.” ten the results of great waiting—waiting Prayer Is a Lost Art The man Christ Jesus prayed many till words and plans are exhausted. There are plenty of preachers who will an all-night ere His work was done. His Silent and patient waiting gains the preach and deliver great and eloquent all-night and long-sustained devotions crown. addresses on the need of revival and the gave to His work its finish and perfec- To pray is the greatest thing we can spread of the Kingdom of God, but not tion, and to His character the fullness do. To do it well there must be calm- many there are who will do that with- and glory of its divinity. ness, time, and deliberation; otherwise out which all preaching and organizing it is degraded into the littlest and mean- are worse than vain—pray. True Praying Costs Something est of things. We cannot do too much of It is out of date, almost a lost art, Praying, true praying, costs an outlay real praying. and the greatest benefactor this age of serious attention and of time, which We must learn anew the worth of could have is the man who will bring flesh and blood do not relish. Few per- prayer, enter anew the school of prayer. the preachers and the Church back to sons are made of such strong fiber that There is nothing which takes more time prayer. they will make a costly outlay when to learn. And if we would learn the E.M. Bounds (1835-1913) was a pastor and a surface work will pass as well in the wondrous art, we must not give a frag- Civil War chaplain known for his strong pietistic market. Hurried devotions make weak ment here and there. We must demand convictions. He was also known for his writings faith, feeble convictions, questionable and hold with iron grasp the best hours and his travels as an itinerant revivalist. This piety. To be little with God is to be little of the day for God and prayer, or there article is taken from his work Power through Prayer, which is available through prayershop.org. for God. will be no praying worth the name.

PRAYERCONNECT.NET 31 Now more than ever...

...we need to hear the voice of our God.

Sometimes, if we receive a providential answer to our prayers, we do have the sense that Someone, somewhere, is listening to us. But is it possible that we can also listen to that Someone? Is it possible that He has a voice, and that we can train our ears to hear and respond to Him?

According to the Scriptures, that is precisely the case. In fact, hearing from God is perfectly normal – at least it ought to be for every one of His children. It’s the way God designed it all along!

For more information, visit our website at www.sycamorepublications.com or email us at [email protected]