Sunday, December 16, 2007

Christmas

PM#0073

Luke 2:7

On Christmas we celebrate the birth of Christ. We focus on Christ, as our King, yet we may not understand the significance of His birth in a stable.

A stable is a place where animals including sheep were kept. Many a lamb were probably born in a stable in the cold weather. Have you ever thought that it was fitting and symbolic that Christ was born in a stable?

Christ is the Lamb of God. Being born in a stable was a true act of humility. As we come to Christmas, let us thank God that Jesus is the Lamb, who came to take our sin away.

Father, thank you for sending Jesus, who came to take our sin way. Help us to remember that as we celebrate Christmas. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.




©2007 Lewis Turner

God’s Protection

PM#0072

PS 91:14-15

One day my wife desperately looked for one of our children, but could not find the child. So she made a diligent search and found a lady bringing the child to our home. It was a lady she had never seen or saw again.

There is no question the Lord knew the concerns of my wife’s heart which really was a prayer.

God’s word makes it clear that He will protect His children. Ps 91:14-15 says ”Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he hath known My Name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.”

Father, thank you for your provision of protection to us, and that that protection is available to us when we pray.

In Jesus Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wisdom Needed

PM#0071

James 1:4

Many of us have been in situations where we wish we had wisdom to help us know what we should do.

Situations sometimes arise where we don’t know how to specifically pray. Sometimes when this happens, we really don’t know what is the real problem, or may have a dilemma where there are difficult choices.

There are situations which we need God’s wisdom and we can have that wisdom by asking for it in prayer. (see James 1:4)

If you are facing a difficult situation, join with me in this prayer. Father, we need your wisdom to help us through a difficult situation. In Jesus’ Name we thank you for it. Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Children’s Hearts

PM#0070

Deut 30:2-6

Do our dealings with children reach to their hearts?

God has entrusted children to us to care for, raise, and train. As we raise them, are we reaching their hearts?

Perhaps we should ask the question, do we have the power to reach their hearts and change them? The answer to that question is simple. It is no. The responsibility to change hearts is God’s. (See Deut 30:2-6) And God does that when we obey Him, which includes teaching our children about Him and teaching them to pray.

Father, help us to teach our children’s about You, and to pray. In Jesus Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Scripture Prayers

PM#0069

I John 5:14


Do you ever need a guide in helping you pray?

There is much help in the Bible concerning how people prayerd. A good source of examples are found in Apostle Paul’s letters to the churches.

The Apostle Paul included many prayers in his letters and these prayers show Paul's hopes and Godly desires for his fellow believers. They are a wonderful resource for us today in praying for others. These recorded prayers in the Bible are scripture. Scripture is God's will revealed to us and I John 5:14 says "if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us".

Don’t be afraid to let scripture guide you when you pray. Go ahead and search the Bible and use many of the prayers that are found in it. They are examples to help us to pray.

Father, encourage us to use your word in our prayers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Sunday, December 2, 2007

Resolutions

PM#0007

Psalm 51:10 Living Bible

How many times do we make a resolution to change our ways? And sometime later what has happened? Many find themselves failing their resolution.

They would probably have to admit that they did not ask help especially from Jesus. What God wants of us is to let Him help us; help us to develop in us what He wants for us. Coming to the Lord through prayer and humility can bring that help.

King David prayed a prayer, recorded in Psalm 51:10, which says "Create in me a new, clean heart, O God, filled with clean thoughts and right desires.”

Consider this prayer: Our Heavenly Father, create within me a clean heart, O God, and may it be filled with clean thoughts and right desires. I pray this In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Joy in God’s Presence

PM#0239

PS 24:1, Ps 22:3

I saw a father one day take his little girl for a walk. He took her hand and smiled and watched as she skipped with joy enjoying the moment of her daddy’s presence.

How often do we skip with joy in God’s presence? God wants us to rejoice and smile and enjoy what He has made and His presence. Do you enjoy the beauty of flowers, the songs of birds, or clouds drifting majestically in the sky? Truly “the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; “ PS 24:1

As we reflect on the beauty of God’s Creation, let us come in prayer with praise. Truly God does inhabit our praise PS 22:3.

Father, may we praise you for all that you have made in creation. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

©2007 Lewis Turner

Prayer for the Church

PM#0171

I Thes 5:16-18


One marriage counselor noted that a couple had little joy in their marriage. He knew that if there was joy then that joy would spark rejoicing in the relationship.


The Apostle Paul in I Thes 5:16-18 says "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks."


Let's apply the phrase 'rejoice evermore' in this scripture to prayer for our church. Do we rejoice over the members, or the leadership, or over other workers? What would happen if we did? I believe that it would enable many to reach their potential and purpose. We really should go to the Lord and rejoice for each other, for all our leaders. We should rejoice that they desire to grow in Christ and caring for others and reaching others for Christ.


Father, Help us to learn to rejoice over all that are in our churches. In Jesus' Name, amen.

©2007 Lewis Turner

Praise

PM#0160

Ps 22:3

If you were choosing friends, how would you choose them. Would you choose someone who is critical or someone who genuinely accepts you and appreciates you? You would probably choose the latter. God is the same way. He appreciates it when we given Him praise.

Ps 22:3 says "But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel." That means God looks for praise and that is where there is praise He is there. In praise we have fellowship with God.

If we look at our responses to criticism and how we respond to praise, we need to remember that God's response to praise is greater than any that we have.. He inhabits it.

Father, many of us have not learned to give you praise and worship. Help us to learn to do so and experience your presence. In Jesus' Name, amen.


©2006 Lewis Turner

Thanking God for Our Children

PM#0061

I I Thes 1: 12

Today, let's consider our children. Our children are important and we need to be thankful for them. They are a gift from God. When we remember good things about them it helps in appreciation of them. Children do need to hear us tell them, that we do love them and value them.

As we pray, lets consider praying with thanksgiving for our children and follow the example of the Apostle Paul in I I Thes 1: 12 who said "We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers"

Father, we ask your help in being thankful for our children. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Sunday, November 4, 2007

Humility

PM#0251

II Chronicles 7:14

Many of us have been taught to strive for success, but if we do not put God in to the equation, where does it get us? What God wants is for us to follow His way of humility, then our success will come from Him.

The Lord instructs us to be humble in II Chronicles 7:14. Humility should be our prayer. I believe we should consider a prayer like the following:

Lord, lead me in humbleness. Teach me not to judge, because in judgment in my heart limits your work. Let me find forgiveness through humbleness. As you lead in humility may mercy be companion, and grace my covering. Through humility, may love be seen in me. May I find God’s truth, Jesus Christ in humility. Lord, help me wear the cloak of humility. May it be my mantle. In Jesus’ Name, amen.


©2007 Lewis Turner

Sunday, October 7, 2007

Resisting Prayer- Discouragement

PM#0064
Eph 6:11

How do you handle discouragement? Some handle it by not talking about it, while others get lost in an activity so they do not have to think about it. Discouragement certainly effects us. If the evil one can make us discouraged, then he can keep us from fully following God's word. How then do we protect ourselves when discouragement comes? When times of discouragement come, we need God's help. The Apostle Paul wrote in Eph 6:11 "put on the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."

We must learn the scriptures and be diligent and use the help that is found in God’s word. Following God's word is the putting on of armor. With armor in place, we can resist Satan through prayer.

Father, give us wisdom on how to resist the evil one in prayer. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Prayer for Health

PM#0065
III John vs 2

All of us, who have children, never want to see them ill.

The Apostle John. knew that God also wanted us to have health and he prayed for our health in III John verse 2 That verse says " Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth." As our children grow, we should pray for the health of our children. Will that keep them from illness? My experience in praying for my children is that they will have less sickness. When an illness tries to get them down, they will get well much faster. This is a prayer that should come out of your heart and love for your children.

Father, you have shown in your word that You want us to be in health. We ask for our children that they will be healthy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Children's Relationship with God

PM#0066
Mark 10:14

All of us want our children to have favor.

When Jesus grew to be a man, He grew in favor with God. That speaks of a relationship with God. Christ did not keep that relationship to Himself. In Mark 10:14b, Christ told his disciples to "suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God."

If Christ wanted children to come to him, then we too should want our children to have a personal relationship with God. Prayer for our children is one way that we can see this relationship develop, which Christ wants.

Father, we bring our children to you and ask your Holy Spirit to move on their hearts so that they will come into a personal relationship with You and have a hunger to know Christ. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Children's Friendships

PM#0067
Luke 2:52

All of us want to see our children have good relationships with others, where they are respected and accepted. Good relationships are a positive influence on our children.

The Bible tells us in Luke 2: 52 that as Jesus grew up, He grew in favor with men, which would indicate that He had good relationships with people. Almost every parent too, wants to see their children have good relationships with others.

We want our children to follow Jesus' example in relationships, so let's ask for it for our children. And let’s keep it before the Lord.

Father, encourage us to pray for our children's relationships with other people. May it reflect Christ and may they grow in favor with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Monday, September 10, 2007

Being a Prayer Example

PM#0063

Children copy their parents. If you pray, they will most likely pray. If you don’t then they probably will not pray.

They will follow our example. If we want them to grow up and be concerned for others, it would encourage them to see us concerned for others enough to pray for them and be and example for our children.

Take time to be that example and let it encourage and teach your children to pray.

Father, help us to be examples of prayer to our children. In Jesus’ Name, amen.





©2005 Lewis Turner

Victory to Overcome

PM#0059
I Peter 5:8

Have you ever watched a cat stalk a bird, they move with stealth then suddenly pounce on it.

The devil is like that cat, looking for opportunities to pounce on you with the intent to do you harm. I Peter 5:8 says "the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." He could use a job loss, or he will fill you with hopelessness and despondency, and He will keep at it constantly. He wants you to accept defeat.

If we have a relationship with Christ, then He is with us when Satan attacks. The Bible says we have the victory "through our Lord Jesus Christ."* Don’t let Satan deceive you in thinking you are defeated. Let's thank God for the victory over Satan through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Father, thank you that you give us the victory to overcome the evil temptations. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


*I Cor 15:57

©2005 Lewis Turner

Specific Asking for Our Children

PM#0062

James 4:2

If you really wanted ice cream, when asked, but just said dessert, what might you get? It could be cake, fruit, pie, or something other than ice cream.

Often when we pray for our children, we are very general. A general prayer would be "Lord, bless my child today" or Lord take care of Jane". These prayers are heartfelt but don't state how you really feel and how you want your child blessed. The Bible says in James 4:2 "we have not because we ask not." Why don't we tell God what we really want for our children? You will be encouraged as you see God answer these specific prayers.

Father, encourage us as we obey your word and intercede for our children. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Thursday, August 9, 2007

Others

Prayer Minute #0054
Phil 2:4

Do we reach out to others and their needs?

Phil 2:4 says "Look not every man on his own things, but every man on the things of others."

Our scripture comes from the King James, and the word 'things' was understood years ago, but we understand it as 'needs' not just things. Needs can be concerns or physical needs. Through genuine prayer we can recognize needs in others so we can take them to the Lord. We find out those needs by listening to others.
Listening prayer involves both listening to the Lord and others. It will help us looking out for the interests of others when we pray.

Father, help us to listen to others when we pray with them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Let Peace Be Your Guide

See also:   http://prayerminutes.blogspot.com/2011/09/let-peace-be-your-guide-prayer.html

PM#0055
Col 3:15

Husbands, I want to ask a question you may not want to answer, but we need to look at. Has your wife ever sensed your decision is wrong, and later you wished you had listened to her?

Should this happen in your marriage, I would encourage you to listen to your wife. God made woman to be a helpmate to man, and often God often gives us guidance through her insights.

The Bible says in Col 3:15: “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts”. As we listen to our spouse after praying together, we may indeed see that peace guiding our hearts.

Father, help us to pray with our spouses about decisions and to listen to them. May your peace guide our hearts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Forgiving

PM#0056
Matt 6:14

Have you tried to pray with someone with whom you have a difference? It is difficult and those differences often come from problems encountered with them, or judgments we have made about the person. If we are willing to exercise true forgiveness, (you see, forgiveness will free us), that forgiveness may make it easier to pray with them. When forgiveness occurs, it will your help your prayer time together with the other person deepen, and God will also help strengthen your relationship.

Jesus said in Matt 6:14 " For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you".

Father, encourage us to forgive and love one another. May that forgiveness and love encourage us to pray. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.





©2005 Lewis Turner

Praying for Wisdom

PM#0057
Heb 5:14b

Just about every parent wants to be proud of their child, and many parents invest a lot of time and energy helping their children excel.

We want our children to have wisdom. We want them to know what is right and what is wrong. We want them to be able to discern both good and evil when they are out on their own. (see Heb 5:14)

Try as we may, we cannot do all the training on our own. We need God's help. That help can come through prayer by asking God that your child will learn to discern between good and evil, and be able to make good decisions.

Father, help us to daily lift up our children to you, asking your help in their lives that they may learn to apply wisdom in their decisions. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Inviting God Into Our Lives

PM#0058
Jer 33:3

Have you ever been in a difficult situation and did not know what to do?

If you reach this point, help is available from God and we can ask for it through prayer. You see prayer not only invites God into the circumstances of our lives, but it gives an opportunity for God to show us His wisdom and provide us His help.

Jer 33:3 says "call unto me, and I will show thee great and mighty things which thou knowest not."

Here's an example of this principle in action. John faced a major trial and was about to give up. He finally reached the point that he said to the Lord, 'without your help, I can’t solve this problem'. The next day, God helped him find a solution.
Father, when times are tough, may your love encourage us to invite you into our circumstances. We desire your help. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Monday, July 9, 2007

Preventing Barriers

Prayer Minute #0053
Matt 18:20


When no one takes an interest in you, what happens to your thoughts? At times like those it is easy to think negative about different things. However when someone takes an interest in you, it has a positive effect on your outlook.

Did you know that Christ takes an interest in people, so much so that when two or three come together in His Name, He comes and joins them. Matt 18:20 says " For where two or three are gathered together in my Name, there am I in the midst of them."

When you pray with others, Christ values those prayers and values you. You are also showing value to others when you pray for their families, their interests and needs.

Father, may we value our friends and mates so much that we will pray with them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.





©2006 Lewis Turner

Why Pray Together

Prayer Minute #0052
Matt 18: 19-20



Have you ever tried to go somewhere, and encountered a formidable barrier?

When it comes to relationships, we may encounter many barriers, but they can be over come following the principles laid out in the Bible. One of these principles is prayer. Prayer together with another person can help a relationship, especially if both ask God's help. Matt 18: 19-20 says "That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven." This is a powerful principle.

Praying together gives the opportunity to invite God's help, which can remove barriers in families, work relationships, and friendships.

Father, we ask your help to encourage us to obey your word and pray together. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2006 Lewis Turner

Replacing Hurts

Prayer Minute #0051
Romans 12:14

Many of us have experienced people saying things that hurt, and sometimes what is said hurts very deeply.

When someone hurts you, it may be possible to forgive but difficult to forget the hurt, at times like these, we can choose to forgive and chose not to replay what we have forgiven. Satan wants us to replay the hurt, but we can resist that temptation by asking God's help in prayer. This help can be found in Romans 12:14 which says "Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not". We are to bless others in spite of hurt. When we bless, we are not replaying the hurt. This instruction is opposite man's way, but it is God's way. Therefore we can pray ‘Lord Jesus, thank you for giving me strength to forgive those who hurt me. I ask you, Lord, to bless them.'

As you learn to pray to bless those who hurt you, the pain of the hurt will decrease because of God’s help.

Father, thank You for helping us to forgive and bless those who hurt us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2006 Lewis Turner

Seven Times Seventy -- Forgiveness

Prayer Minute #0050
Matthew 18:21-22


What do you do if someone continually offends you?

When someone continually offends you, you have a difficult situation. The Bible has an answer that is found in Matt 18:21-22. Jesus said to forgive seven times seventy. That in essence means that we must continually forgive.

I know that it does not seem fair to forgive when we are the one being hurt, however, this is God's higher way. God wants to work in our lives but unforgiveness blocks the work of God. Forgiveness when it is from the heart, allows God to work.

Father, it is difficult to continually forgive when we are continually hurt. Please help us forgive from the heart. In Jesus, Name.


©2006 Lewis Turner

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

Confession, the Way to Spiritual Health

Prayer Minute #0044
Mark 11:26


How many times have you been angry, and do not allow the other person to forget it?

If we are really honest with ourselves, probably most of us have fallen into that pattern at one time or another. Unfortunately for us, this pattern really is the result of unwillingness to forgive. Unwillingness to forgive is a powerful emotion that can harm relationships and bind us. Christ knew the danger of unforgiveness, and He warned us in Mark 11:26, "But if you do not forgive neither will the father forgive your trespasses" It is clear that unforgiveness also blocks a relationship with God and the way to have that relationship restored is to forgive others.

What should we do then? If we harbor any unforgiveness, we need to forgive and ask God to forgive us. Do it daily! Forgiveness will set you free!

Father, encourage us as we forgive others, and restore our relationship with you.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2006 Lewis Turner

Intercession

Prayer Minute #0045

Have you heard little children praying 'Bless Mommy, bless Daddy, bless all the missionaries"? Perhaps you have, and maybe you have prayed like that at one time too.

As we mature, we need to grow in our prayer for others. Prayer for others is intercessory prayer. When we pray for others, our heart's prayer and desire should be to invite God to work in their lives.

There are many benefits of intercessory prayer. One of them is praying for others helps us to be more sensitive to the needs of others. That is what God wants.

Father, help us to pray for others and to invite you to work in their lives.. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2006 Lewis Turner

Thanksgiving

Prayer Minute #0046
PS 18:1

Martin Luther once said “In thanksgiving we recount blessing received, and thus strengthen our confidence and enable ourselves to wait trustingly for what we pray.”

Thanksgiving prayer is important. It can be a simple affirmation of love to God. The Bible has an example in Ps 18:1 which says “I will love you , O Lord, my salvation.” If you read the Psalms, you will be encouraged to be thankful as you see other times that God was praised. They will help you in prayer.

Father, praise is not always easy, but your word was given to help us. May we learn from your word, so we can offer praise to you from our heart. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.




©2006 Lewis Turner

Unforgiveness

Prayer Minute #0048
Matt 6:14-15

Have you ever heard that one thing leads to another and there is no stopping it? Sounds like it could start a never ending cycle.

This a cycle can develop from unforgiveness. Unforgiveness can cause a critical attitude which can foster more unforgiveness starting the cycle over again. As the cycle continues, bitterness creeps in, and other negative things may develop. All of this started with unforgiveness. If we choose not to forgive, the behavior will likely continue.

Now if we choose to forgive, forgiveness can break the cycle and with that cycle broken, it can bring us the freedom that God wants us to have. When we forgive, God is able to work and bring positive change.

The Bible says in Mark 11:25 "And when ye stand praying, forgive” Let’s do it.

Father, help us to forgive others from the heart. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2006 Lewis Turner

Trials

Prayer Minute #0049
Matt 18:20

What would you do if you got a call from the boss saying in a sharp tone 'Be in my office at 9 AM sharp tomorrow,'? The tone of voice spells possible trouble.

This happened to John. John knew that he had done honest work. He knew he had a choice of going to the meeting on his own or asking others to pray with him.

The Lord said there would be trials in this life. If we respond through prayer, Jesus will help us. John chose to have others pray with him. Matt 18:20 assures us that Jesus is with us when we come together with others in prayer. It says "where two or three are gathered together in My Name., there am I in the midst of them".

The next day, John saw God's help at the meeting. You too can have that help in trials if you ask God for it.

Father, when trials come, I ask that You encourage people to pray together. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2006 Lewis Turner

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Dejected?

Ps 42:11
PM#0006

Have you ever felt dejected, down in the dumps, and disturbed? Probably most of us would have to admit we have felt this way.

The Psalmist David went through the same feelings and shared with us his answer. He wrote in Ps 42:11: “Why are thou cast down, O my soul? Why are thou disquited within me? Hope thou in God: For I shall yet praise Him…”

How many times do things seem to go against you at work, or something at home needs costly replacing, or a close relationship has gone sour, or you have experienced a lot of illness? In times like these we need to look to the Lord who is your help and give Him praise for His help, even before we see it. He is right there with you.

Remember, David found a way to praise God even in difficult times.

Consider the following prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I am facing a difficult situation. I need your wisdom and help. I thank you for the help you are bringing to me. In Jesus Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

God’s Will

PM#0005
I John 5:14

Years ago, I was taught that we should not use written prayers. I thank the Lord that he has since showed me that some of the written prayers used in churches are actually taken from God's word. When we use those prayers, which are based on scripture, we are praying using God's word.

The word of God represents God's will. I John 5:14 says "And this is the confidence that we have in Him that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us:” Therefore when using prayers based on scripture, we are praying in accordance with God's will. Knowing this should encourage us to include scripture in our prayers.

Father, we thank you for your encouragement to us to include scripture in our prayers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.






©2005 Lewis Turner

Praise for God's Thoughts to Us

Prayer Minute:PM#001
Jer 29:11

Did you know that someone is constantly thinking about you?---that's right—about you!
The Bible says that God's thoughts to us are numerous. His thoughts are to give us a hope and a future. Jer 29:11 says "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

I don't know about you, but I find it beyond my personal comprehension that our God is so interested in us. But the fact is, He is. This is a reason to come before Him with thanksgiving, praise, and to have hope. Our prayers should reflect this.

Father, we just want to thank You, for Your great love to us and wonderful thoughts for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.





©2005 Lewis Turner

Monday, April 9, 2007

Listening Prayer

Prayer Minute: PM#0043
Ps 46:10

Is listening to others really important in relationship?

It definitely is. Listening to others is very important. In prayer, listening to God helps builds a relationship with God and helps us to be aware of God's presence so we can hear what He wants to tell us. We are more likely to hear God's voice when we have quieted our hearts and minds. The Bible says in Ps 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."

If our relationship with God is to grow we also need to make time to listen. When we do, we will find that He speaks to us and those words that He speaks will be in accordance with the Bible.

Father, help us to quiet our hearts and minds before you, so that we can hear you speaking to us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Using Spiritual Gifts in Prayer

Prayer Minute: PM#0042
I Cor 12:7

Did you know that God has given you a special gift.

That's right. God has given each of us spiritual gifts. Their purpose is to build the body of Christ which is His church. I Cor 12:7 says "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal."

These gifts can be used in prayer. For example: A person with the gift of compassion will probably pray from his feelings. A person with the gift of administration will pray with a different focus. Because of our different giftings, we may pray in different ways for the same thing. That is the way our giftings work. Understanding that should help us come together in agreement in our prayers.

Father, thank you for the different gifts that you have given each of us, and may those giftings help our prayers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Differences

Prayer Minute: PM#0041
I Cor 12:25

Differences can divide and keep people apart.

When Christ instituted the church, he gave different giftings to people so that it would be able to function. Many have a hard time recognizing that we can work together even with differences, but it is instructed in I Cor 12:25 "That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another."

Still, differences can be an obstacle for us and those obstacles will affect our praying together if we let it. We need to remember that we all come to God by the same grace. Therefore we should come together in prayer through that same grace.

Father, help us to remember that it is your grace that works in us and others. May we join together in prayer with them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Prayer Types vs Relationship with God

Prayer Minute: PM#0038
Luke 18:13

Many of us remember praying as a child, "God is great, God is good. Let us thank Him for our food."

Now consider this question honestly, as we matured into adults, have we matured using other types of prayer in communication with God? There are many types of prayer, and some people prefer one type over the other. But the type of prayer is not as important as it is that the prayer grows out of a growing relationship with God; one where we can share our joys and needs with God, and enjoy His fellowship with us. The man who prayed in Luke 18:13 "God be merciful to me a sinner", wanted a relationship with God. This prayer was a heart communication to God.

Father, encourage us to grow in our relationship with you through prayer. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Time to Pray

Prayer Minute: PM#0036
Eph 5:16

Are there days that you dread being given another task?

We all have numerous pressures in life and many times it is difficult to find time to do things we need to do, let alone take time to pray! To pray may take a refocus on how we spend our time. In the Bible, Eph 5:16 speaks of "redeeming the time". Redeeming the time applies also to prayer. Prayer should be a priority and should reflect oura relationship with Christ. To start a prayer time, try to find a few minutes and set them aside for prayer. It is important that prayer becomes a part of your life. Over time, I believe that you will find that you will come to a point where you seek out time to pray.

Father, help us to find time to make prayer a priority, and guide us in having our daily prayer time. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Saturday, March 10, 2007

Praying with a List

Prayer Minute : PM#0034
Is 43:26


Do you have trouble remembering things? Personally, I need to write down what I need to do. That list not only helps me remember, but it helps in other ways too. I use lists to help me to remember what to pray for. Keeping prayer lists handy helps me pray for others as the Lord moves me to pray, and the Lord wants us to remember others. Remembering others is remembering the Lord. Is 43:26 says "Put me in remembrance."

Putting others in remembrance by praying for them is a way of remembering the Lord, and it will help bring answers to their needs, When you learn of answers to prayer, write them down! They will encourage you to keep praying.

Father, help us find a way to remember the needs you want us to pray for. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Finding Time to Pray

Prayer Minute : PM#0033
Mark 6:46


Have you ever examined your priorities? What would they tell you about yourself and your focus?

Now let’s look at What Christ focused on for Himself. In Mark 6:46, we find a major priority for Christ was to take time to pray.

If we are followers of Christ, then praying should be a priority, but what stops us from praying? Often there are many good items facing us, but good things can be distractors demanding our time, keeping us from prayer. There is a way to overcome these distractors. We can to ask God’s help in setting our priorities to focus on prayer, especially in finding time to pray.

Father, help us to find time to pray. And we come to you In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner


Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Posture in Prayer

Prayer Minute : PM#0032
Joel 2:13


Is prayer a matter of posture in reverence to or is prayer communication with God? Let's explore the question whether or not prayer position is important.

Consider this - does the body position speak words, especially heart words? Sometimes we may feel the need to demonstrate our reverence by getting on our knees. On the other hand, if you spent thirty minutes kneeling on a hard floor every time you prayed, would you really develop the habit of praying? Especially from the heart? Or just bad knees? The true essence of prayer is heart communication with God. This is reflected on in Joel 2:13 which says "rend your heart, and not your garments." It shows that God wants heart communication with Him. If God wants heart communication with Him, then that is more important than body position in prayer.

Father, help us to have heart communication with You when we pray. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner


Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Husbands

Prayer Minute : PM#0025
Gen 2:18


Many men consider themselves to be self-made men. They don't depend on others. Yet do they need help? God in His wisdom knew that men would need help and made woman for man. The Bible says in Gen 2:18 "And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet for him." When He made woman, God put in a woman a desire that would help her fulfill her calling as a helpmate to her husband. Part of a wife being a help mate is praying for her husband. She needs to know that you desire her prayers. When she prays from her heart for you, those prayers will be powerful. Those prayers will invite God’s help in your life, and your marriage, and your family as a result.

Father, I ask that men will not be afraid to ask their wives to pray for them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Sunday, February 18, 2007

Husbands, Pray for Your Spouse

Prayer Minute : PM#0024
James 5:16

Today I have a question for husbands. Do you ever pray for your spouse? From time to time, we have heard that husbands should be praying for their wives.

Did you know that praying for your spouse can accomplish much? When we pray from the heart, the Bible in James 5:16 says "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

Now is there something your spouse has really sought for from her heart? Why not join with her and take to the Lord in prayer, and let your spouse know you are praying for it. I believe the Lord will bring a real blessing if you do.

Father, may we husbands pray for our wives and lift them up to. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Praying Together, Marriage

A good marriage is important to most of us, and there are a number of ways that we can pray for marriage which can help. Take the time to search this Blog for various examples of prayer for marriage and other life issues. An index located on the right side of this blog has been provided for your use. May the Lord help each of us as we pray for our marriages. The Prayer Minute below is an example of prayer for a marriage that we can pray.

Prayer Minute : PM#0021
II Thes 1:11

Do you want a good marriage?

I think everyone wants a good marriage, but from current statistics it appears that truly good marriages are few and far between. We need God’s help to have a good marriage. There is a prayer which the Apostle Paul prayed that can apply to marriage. It is found in II Thes 1:11 "Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power." We need to ask the Lord to be involved in our marriages so they can be what they should be. A good marriage is a worthwhile goal and a worthy calling, and we can have God’s help with our marriage when we pray.

Father, may we learn to let you help us pray for our marriages that they may be all that you want them to be. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Praying Together

Prayer Minute : PM#0020
Matt 18:20

I know I should pray, but I don't know how or what to pray for. How many times have you felt that way? Especially about praying with your spouse?

If this is true, how do you go about praying with your spouse? Here’s an idea that will take both husband and wife working together. Each of you could write down what you want the other to pray about, then exchange lists and pray for the requests together. When you will hear your spouse praying for you, it will encourage you. Jesus encouraged us when He said in Matt 18:20: "For where two or three are gathered together in my Name. there am I in the midst of them." As we pray together, Jesus will be there helping us. He cares about us.

Father, encourage us to be open with our spouse and to pray together. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Prayer for Children

Prayer Minute : PM#0018
Ps 90:16

Our children face many pressures from their classmates. It could be drugs, alcohol, peer pressure or a host of other things. As Christians, we are told to be on guard against evil influences, and that includes protecting our children. One way to protect from evil influences is to let God help us by asking His help through prayer.

Ps 90:16 shows a prayer which can benefit our children. It says: “Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their children." When children see God’s work first hand, it will have a positive influence on them.

Perhaps you would like to join with me in the following prayer:

Father, I ask that your work is made clear to your servant and your glory appear to our children, that they may desire you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Sunday, January 21, 2007

Husbands, Hedge

Prayer Minute : PM#0017
Job 1:10

When we think of a hedge, we think of protection. In the Bible we find that Satan complained to God about a hedge of protection around the biblical character, Job. In Job 1 vs 10. Satan said to God “hast not thou made an hedge about him?”

There is a message here for husbands and the protection they are to provide for their wives. We should protect our wives, and we can do this through prayer, by asking God for a hedge of protection around them.

What type of protection should we ask for? A few items might be: That they will be protected wherever they go. And that they will be safe from any accidents and also from evil influences.---There is indeed more that could be used in prayer, but these suggestions are a start.

Father, I ask for each of us who are husbands, will be moved by the Holy Spirit in prayer to ask for Your protection for the wife that You have given us. In Jesus’ Name, amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Praying for Leaders

Prayer Minute : PM#0016
I Timothy 2:1-4

How many of us let our impressions of a leader get in the way of praying for them?

Does the Bible have any thing to say about praying for leaders? It certainly does. In I Timothy 2:1-4 we have a Biblical directive to pray for our leaders, and the Bible gives a reason why we should pray for them. That directive is found in Verse 2 and it says "that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty." Praying for our leaders also includes our bosses. Yes, bosses are leaders. You may say wait a minute, pray for my Boss? Yes. For some of us praying for our bosses can be difficult, especially if we do not have a good impression of them. However if we obey this scripture, I believe that God will be in control of the situation where we work, working His best for us.

Father, we ask your help to obey your word to pray for our leaders. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Scripture Praying

Prayer Minute : PM#0015
Matt 15:18

Ever wonder what someone really believes? You will soon find out if you listen to what they say. Some will speak positively showing they believe in success and of blessings. Some will speak about everything negative and those things often happen to them. We speak what is in our heart and that reflects what we truly believe.

If you believe in Jesus, your speech should reflect your heart. Matt 15:18 says, “But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart." If God's word is in our heart, then God's word will show itself in our conversation and our prayers.

Father, help us to put your word in our hearts, and may it guide our prayers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Praying Together as a Team

Prayer Minute : PM#0014
Matt 18:20

When people work together as a team, much can be accomplished.

When the Lord created marriage, He wanted a husband and wife to work together as a team. Part of team work in a marriage includes praying together. When marriage partners join together in prayer, there is much power in their prayers.

The Lord has said in Matt 18:20: "For where two or three are gathered together in my Name, there am I in the midst of them." He is our help and we will have the Holy Spirit working in our hearts, energizing our hearts, and bringing answers to prayer.

Father, may husbands and wives desire to pray together. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Thursday, January 4, 2007

Husbands and Wives-Praying Together

Prayer Minute : PM#0013

Today, the divorce rate in marriages is very very high. Some of us throw up our hands and say there is nothing we can do. But there is one strategy that has been successful in keeping marriages together and that strategy is praying together inviting God’s help.

Often there are many wounds in a marriage that create conflict in relationships. These need the pure love of God helping them, and inviting God into your marriage through prayer brings His love and help. It brings God back in to the marriage equation. After all, He is the one who created marriage. Praying together is the secret of a marriage staying together. And my friends, it is no secret what God can and will do, if you and your spouse pray together.

Father, I ask you to encourage spouses to pray together inviting you to help them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Blessings, Health

Prayer Minute : PM#0012
III John 2

Have you ever met people who always have something wrong with them? They seem to live from one ailment to another, and never rise above them.

One of the most frequent prayer requests we hear are for ailments. What should our response be? Here is a response that I have found that has brought blessing of health to some. It uses III John vs 2 which says " Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest...be in health,” These words reflect the desire of Christ.

When people ask you to pray for an ailment, consider a prayer like this one: Father, the desire of Jesus is that we have healing, and I ask for health and stamina for each of these persons. In Jesus' Name, Amen.


©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Agreement

Prayer Minute : PM#0011
Matt 18:19

Some time ago, I learned of some farmers who loved the Lord. Their wives got together and would walk the boundary of their farms praying over the farms together in agreement for their prosperity. That year, all of their farms did well.

This illustrates what God can do when we come to Him in agreement with His word. When agreement is in line with God's word, it is powerful, and God's word will bring forth God's desired results. In this context, Christ spoke the words in Matt 18:19 "if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they ask, it shall be done for them of my Father in heaven."

Father, help us to join together in our prayers and may we be encouraged so that we can encourage others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793

Blessings

Prayer Minute : PM#0010

Psalm 1:1-3

Did you know prayers can bring blessings?

It's true. Now think about this. What would happen in the lives of others if we prayed a blessing for them every day using God’s word as a guide?

Here is an example of a blessing found in Psalm 1: 1-3 that can be prayed:
"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that bringeth his fruit in his season; and whatsoever he doeth."

That is a powerful blessing to pray. And it can be prayed for someone you care about.

Father, thank you for your word, which can guide us in asking blessing for others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.



©2005 Lewis Turner

Wheatland Ministries
PO Box 697
Walkersville, MD 21793