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  • 24-363 Empowered by the Spirit: Interceding with Divine Strength
    2024/12/28

    Warriors, welcome! Today, we delve into the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, especially through the lens of intercession. Anchored by John 14:26, we're reminded of the Holy Spirit's role not only as our Comforter but also as our divine enabler in prayer.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: John 14:26 (ESV): "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you."

    This promise ensures that when we lack the words or understanding, the Spirit steps in, equipping us with wisdom and insight.

    Harnessing the Holy Spirit’s Power in Intercession:

    * Recognize Your Need: Acknowledge that true intercessory power comes not from ourselves but from the Holy Spirit. It’s crucial to depend on Him to guide your prayers.

    * Seek Spirit-Led Prayer: Start your prayer times by openly inviting the Holy Spirit to lead you. Ask Him to bring to your mind the issues He desires you to pray about.

    Practical Steps to Inviting the Holy Spirit into Your Intercession:

    * Quiet Time: Dedicate time for stillness in God's presence to hear His voice more clearly. This quiet waiting can often be where the Holy Spirit speaks the most profoundly.

    * Scripture Saturation: Immerse yourself in God’s Word. The Holy Spirit often uses scripture to guide our intercessory prayers, providing clarity and direction.

    * Responsive Obedience: When the Spirit impresses upon you a specific prayer burden, respond immediately. This obedience fosters a deeper fellowship with the Holy Spirit and makes your prayer life more dynamic and responsive.

    Conclusion

    Embracing the Holy Spirit’s role in intercession transforms it from a duty to a dynamic encounter with God’s power. As you yield to the Spirit’s leading, you’ll find your prayers becoming more aligned with God’s will and, consequently, more effective.

    A Question of the Day: What area of your life or community is God placing on your heart to intercede for with the guidance of the Holy Spirit?

    Growth Challenge: This week, I challenge you to focus one intercessory prayer session solely on listening for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Document any insights or burdens He reveals to you, and commit to praying into these areas over the next month.

    Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for sending us the Holy Spirit to be our helper in every aspect of our lives, including our prayer life. Holy Spirit, we invite You to fill us afresh, guide our prayers, and empower us to intercede with divine strength. Teach us, lead us, and use us as instruments of Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Stay strong in the Spirit, Warriors. Let the Holy Spirit transform your intercession into a powerful tool for God's Kingdom. Remember, you are never praying alone; the Spirit Himself is interceding through you. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分
  • 24-362 Battling in the Spirit: Intercession as Spiritual Warfare
    2024/12/27

    Welcome, Warriors! Today, we're arming ourselves for battle, not with physical weapons but with the potent force of intercessory prayer. We draw strength from 2 Corinthians 10:4, which reminds us of the powerful spiritual arsenal at our disposal.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: 2 Corinthians 10:4 (ESV): "For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds."

    This scripture empowers us to confront spiritual battles with God-given strategies that dismantle the enemy's plans.

    Engaging in Spiritual Warfare through Intercession:

    * Identify the Strongholds: Start by discerning the areas of greatest spiritual resistance in your life, community, or beyond. These could be recurring patterns of sin, societal issues, or personal struggles.

    * Commit to Targeted Prayer: Focus your intercessory prayers on these strongholds. Use Scripture as your foundation, praying God’s promises and truth over the areas of bondage.

    Staying Steadfast in Spiritual Battle:

    * Regular Prayer Shifts: Like sentries, schedule regular times to pray specifically for spiritual breakthroughs. This disciplined approach ensures continual pressure against the enemy’s schemes.

    * Equip with Scripture: Arm yourself with biblical verses that speak directly to the areas of battle. Declare these scriptures aloud as affirmations of God’s authority over every stronghold.

    * Join Forces: Engage with other believers who understand the importance of spiritual warfare. There's increased strength and authority when warriors unite in prayer.

    Conclusion

    Intercession is your spiritual weapon, intricately designed by God to pull down strongholds and usher in His light where there is darkness. This battle requires perseverance, faith, and strategic prayer.

    A Question of the Day: What stronghold in your life or community needs the focused attention of your intercessory prayers this week?

    Growth Challenge: Warriors, I challenge you this week to increase your time in intercessory prayer. Choose a specific issue or stronghold and dedicate at least 15 minutes a day to pray about it. Document any changes or breakthroughs in a prayer journal.

    Let’s Pray: Father, we come before You in the name of Jesus, ready to engage in spiritual warfare through intercession. We ask for the discernment to identify the enemy's schemes and the strength to combat them with Your word. Equip us, Lord, as we stand in the gap for those who cannot fight for themselves. Thank you for the victory that is already ours through Christ Jesus. Amen.

    Keep pressing on, Warriors! Your prayers are demolishing strongholds and paving the way for God’s Kingdom to be revealed on earth. Stand firm in the faith and keep battling in the spirit. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分
  • 24-361 Praying with Purpose: Turning Burdens into Breakthroughs
    2024/12/26

    Welcome, Warriors! Today, we're sharpening our spiritual tools to turn our burdens into breakthroughs through the power of intercessory prayer, guided by James 5:16. This verse reminds us of the tremendous impact our prayers have when they are heartfelt and righteous.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: James 5:16 (ESV): "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."

    This scripture not only calls us to a life of transparency and mutual support but highlights the profound effectiveness of our prayers.

    Effective Intercession:

    * Focused Prayer Targets: Start by identifying the specific needs or areas where God is prompting you to pray. It could be for an individual's salvation, healing, a national crisis, or spiritual revival in your community.

    * Standing in Agreement: There's extraordinary power when two or more gather in Jesus’ name with a united prayer focus. Seek out prayer partners who share your burden and commit to regular sessions where you can pray in agreement.

    Building a Robust Prayer Routine:

    * Create a Prayer List: Keep a dynamic list of prayer requests. Update it as needs arise and as prayers are answered, which will serve as a testament to God’s power and faithfulness.

    * Set a Prayer Schedule: Dedicate specific times of the day for intercession. Early mornings, lunch breaks, or evenings can become powerful moments of connection with God.

    * Incorporate Fasting: Sometimes, combine your prayers with fasting. This can heighten your spiritual sensitivity and demonstrate your earnestness before God.

    Conclusion

    Intercessory prayer is a profound service to the Kingdom of God, transforming not only those for whom we pray but also ourselves, as we align closer with God's heart and purposes.

    A Question of the Day: What specific situation or person will you commit to intercede for this coming week?

    Growth Challenge: This week, choose one day to fast and pray specifically for a breakthrough in an area you’ve been interceding for. Whether it's healing, salvation for a loved one, or resolution in a conflict, bring it to God with a focused heart and mind.

    Let’s Pray: Father, we come before You with open hearts, ready to intercede for the needs around us. Grant us the persistence and spiritual fortitude to stand in the gap. May our prayers echo Your will on earth as it is in heaven, bringing healing, restoration, and transformation. Equip us, Lord, with a spirit of perseverance as we commit to this call. Amen.

    Warriors, remember that each prayer you utter is a ripple in the spiritual realm. Keep pressing on, keep lifting those burdens to God, and watch as He works mightily through your faithful intercession. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分
  • 24-360 Faithful to the Call: Obeying God’s Prompting to Pray
    2024/12/25

    Welcome, Warriors! Today, we’re embracing the sacred duty of intercession, inspired by 1 Timothy 2:1, which compels us to pray for all people. It’s a call to spiritual action that demands our heart's commitment and our spirit's attention.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: 1 Timothy 2:1 (ESV): "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people."

    This scripture isn't just a suggestion; it's a direct call to action, urging us to bring others before God’s throne of grace.

    Understanding Your Call to Intercede:

    * The Importance of Obedient Prayer: When God nudges you to pray, it’s often because He wants to do something through your obedience. Your prayers can unlock doors and bring down strongholds.

    * The Power of Faithful Intercession: Every time you intercede, you’re stepping into a battlefield where spiritual victories are won and lives are transformed.

    How to Stay Committed to Intercession:

    * Schedule Prayer Time: Make intercessory prayer a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Set specific times to pray for specific needs and stick to them as faithfully as you would any other important appointment.

    * Create a Prayer List: Keep a running list of prayer requests and updates on those situations. This will not only help you stay organized but also remind you of God’s faithfulness as you see prayers answered over time.

    * Partner with Others: Sometimes, the burden of intercession can feel heavy. Partnering with fellow believers can provide mutual support and encouragement. Share your prayer burdens and take turns lifting each other’s requests to God.

    Conclusion

    Responding to God’s call to intercede is a profound privilege and a powerful ministry. It requires diligence, faithfulness, and a heart attuned to the needs of others and the desires of God.

    A Question of the Day: What is one action you will take this week to strengthen your commitment to intercessory prayer?

    Growth Challenge: This week, commit to adding one new person or cause to your intercessory prayer list. Spend time each day praying specifically for this addition, asking God to show His power and mercy.

    Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for entrusting us with the powerful tool of intercession. Help us to be sensitive to Your Spirit’s promptings, and give us the strength to pray without ceasing. May our prayers be a catalyst for change and a testament to Your mercy and power. Equip us, Lord, to stand in the gap where needed and be Your hands and voice in this world. In Jesus' name, Amen.

    Warriors, your prayers are crucial in the kingdom of God. They are seeds planted in faith, growing into blessings and breakthroughs. Let’s rise to the call with hearts ready to intercede and hands lifted in prayer. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分
  • 24-359 Listening for Heaven’s Whisper: Hearing God’s Heart in Prayer
    2024/12/24

    Welcome, Warriors! Today, we're focusing on tuning into the heart of God through intercession, with Romans 8:26 guiding us into the depths of spiritual communication.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: Romans 8:26 (ESV): "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words."

    This verse reveals the profound partnership we enter with the Holy Spirit when we commit to intercessory prayer.

    Engaging with God’s Voice:

    * Understanding the Spirit’s Role: Realize that the Holy Spirit is not just a passive presence but an active guide, shaping your prayers according to God’s will.

    * Recognizing Divine Burdens: Sometimes, God imparts specific burdens or a sense of urgency about a person or situation that you can’t shake. This is often His invitation to engage deeply in prayer.

    How to Hear and Discern in Prayer:

    * Seek Quietness: Find a quiet place where you can regularly meet with God without distractions. Your ability to hear His voice increases as you decrease the noise around you.

    * Journal Your Prayers and Insights: As you pray, keep a journal nearby. Write down any thoughts, scriptures, or impressions that come to you. This practice will help you discern God's voice over your own thoughts or desires.

    * Expect Confirmation: The Spirit often confirms what He is communicating through His Word, the counsel of other believers, or repeated themes in your life. Stay open and attentive to these confirmations.

    Conclusion

    Hearing God's voice in intercession is about developing a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's promptings and trusting Him to lead your prayers.

    A Question of the Day: What is one area or person God is pressing on your heart to intercede for more fervently?

    Growth Challenge: This week, dedicate at least 15 minutes each day to silent prayer, focusing solely on listening for God’s guidance on what to pray for. Document any insights or burdens you receive.

    Let’s Pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, who helps us in our prayer life. Teach us to be sensitive and obedient to Your voice, that we may effectively stand in the gap for those You bring to our hearts. Amen.

    Keep listening for God’s whispers, Warriors. Your intercessory prayers are a vital lifeline for many and a powerful tool in the spiritual realm. Let’s step into this role with faith and dedication. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分
  • 24-358 Standing in the Gap: The Power of Intercession
    2024/12/23

    Welcome, Warriors! Today, we’re diving deep into the heart of intercession, guided by Ezekiel 22:30, where God searches for someone to stand in the breach—a call to spiritual action that’s as urgent today as ever.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: Ezekiel 22:30 (ESV): "And I sought for a man among them who should build up the wall and stand in the breach before me for the land, that I should not destroy it, but I found none."

    This verse calls us to be the ones who stand in the gap, who pray on behalf of the land and the people.

    Understanding Intercession:

    * Biblical Foundation: Intercessory prayer is a powerful ministry entrusted to us. It involves direct dialogue with God, pleading on behalf of others, just as Christ intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father.

    * Reflecting Jesus’ Mediator Role: Just as Jesus mediates our relationship with the Father, we are called to be mediators through prayer. Your prayers can bridge gaps and mend what is broken.

    Instructions for Embracing Intercession:

    * Identify the Gaps: Look around you—where is healing needed? Where is restoration required? Your calling might be closer than you think.

    * Commit to Regular Prayer: Set a time each day to pray specifically for these needs. Be disciplined in your approach to intercession as your prayers lay the groundwork for God’s intervention.

    * Be Moved by Compassion: Let the love of Christ compel you. Feel the weight of the needs around you and let that drive you to earnest, fervent prayer.

    Conclusion

    Embrace your role as an intercessor. It’s a high calling that holds power to change lives, heal lands, and turn hearts back to God.

    A Question of the Day: What specific issue or group of people will you commit to intercede for this week?

    Growth Challenge: Challenge yourself to intercede daily for a week, focusing on one issue you feel particularly called to. Note any changes or insights you gain during this time.

    Let’s Pray: Father, thank You for entrusting us with the ministry of intercession. Ignite in us a passion to stand in the gap, to build up the wall, and to pray with conviction and hope. Teach us to pray with the urgency and compassion that reflects Your heart. Amen.

    Warriors, as we close today, remember your prayers have divine strength. Each time you intercede, you are acting on behalf of heaven itself. Let’s carry this responsibility with the honor and earnestness it deserves. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分
  • 24-357 A Love Letter from God
    2024/12/22

    My Beloved Child,

    I see you. I see the way you open your heart and your hands to those in need. I see the kindness in your gestures, the thoughtfulness in your actions, and the love that compels you to serve others. Every act of hospitality you offer, no matter how small it seems to you, is precious in My sight.

    When you extend a helping hand, a warm meal, a listening ear, or even something as simple as a cup of cold water, you reflect My heart. You show the world a glimpse of who I am—a God who welcomes, cares, and provides. Your hospitality is a tangible expression of My love, and it matters deeply.

    There are moments when you wonder if your efforts make a difference, if anyone notices the sacrifices you make to serve others. Let Me assure you, My child—I notice. I see every detail, every small act of love, and every time you put someone else’s needs ahead of your own. Nothing you do in My name is ever wasted. Even the smallest gestures done in love carry eternal value.

    When you welcome others into your life, into your home, or into your care, you are welcoming Me. Remember, My Son said, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me.” Every time you serve someone, you are serving Me. And I delight in your willingness to be My hands and feet in this world.

    I know it’s not always easy. Hospitality requires your time, your energy, and sometimes your comfort. But don’t grow weary, My beloved child. Your kindness plants seeds of hope, healing, and love in the hearts of those you serve. You may not see the full impact of your actions now, but trust Me—they are making a difference.

    I also want you to know that I am your provider. As you pour out your love and resources for others, I will fill you back up. You can’t outgive Me. I will bless you abundantly—not always in material ways, but with My peace, My joy, and the satisfaction of knowing you are living out your calling. You are partnering with Me to bring light into a world that desperately needs it.

    So, keep going, My hospitable child. Open your heart, open your hands, and open your life to others. Every act of generosity and kindness is a beautiful reflection of My love. And remember this: nothing done in My name is forgotten. I see it all, and I am so proud of you.

    I love you more than you can imagine, and I am with you every step of the way. Keep being the light I’ve called you to be. You are making an eternal impact.

    With all My love,Your Heavenly Father

    Additional Scriptures to Reflect On:

    * Hebrews 13:2 - "Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."

    * Proverbs 19:17 - "Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his deed."

    * Galatians 6:10 - "So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    5 分
  • 24-356 Spirit-Led Generosity: Hospitality Empowered by the Holy Spirit
    2024/12/21

    In this episode, we’re exploring how the Holy Spirit fuels our capacity for hospitality. Drawing on Galatians 6:10, we'll uncover how Spirit-led generosity opens doors to bless others, particularly within the community of faith.

    Our springboard for today’s discussion is: Galatians 6:10 (ESV): "So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."

    This verse calls us to seize every chance to express God's kindness, guided by the Holy Spirit.

    The Holy Spirit doesn’t just empower us; He transforms us into agents of generosity and hospitality. Today, we delve into how this transformation takes place and how it manifests in our interactions with both friends and strangers.

    Understanding Spirit-Led Hospitality:

    * Joy in Service: Discuss how the Holy Spirit instills a deep sense of joy in serving others, which transcends ordinary hospitality and becomes a divine calling.

    * Wisdom in Generosity: Explore how the Spirit gives us wisdom to know when and how to extend hospitality, making our efforts more effective and heartfelt.

    * Creating Welcoming Spaces: Share how being filled with the Spirit enhances our ability to create spaces—both physical and emotional—that welcome and refresh those who enter our lives.

    Practical Guidance on Spirit-Led Hospitality:

    * Listening to the Spirit: I encourage you to cultivate sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s nudges, which can often prompt us to act generously at just the right moment.

    * Hospitality in Community: Consider writing down some ideas for how to practice hospitality within the church community, supporting fellow believers in ways that strengthen the whole body of Christ.

    * Overcoming Barriers: Discuss with your community how to overcome personal or logistical barriers to hospitality by relying on the Holy Spirit for creativity and resources.

    Conclusion

    As believers, we’re called to a higher standard of generosity—one that’s not merely human in its scope but is infused with divine purpose and power. Let’s lean into the Holy Spirit to guide our acts of hospitality, transforming every encounter into an opportunity to display God’s grace.

    A Question of the Day: In what ways have you felt the Holy Spirit guiding you to show hospitality recently?

    Growth Challenge: This week, ask the Holy Spirit to highlight someone who needs a gesture of hospitality. Act on this prompt, and reflect on how this obedience impacts both you and the recipient.

    Let’s Pray: Father, fill us anew with Your Spirit so that our acts of hospitality go beyond mere social gestures. Let each act of kindness be a reflection of Your love and a response to Your call. Teach us to serve joyfully and generously, always attentive to the needs around us, empowered by Your Spirit. Amen.

    As we continue to walk in step with the Spirit, let’s keep our hearts and homes open, ready to serve and uplift others in the love of Christ. Remember, through hospitality, we not only bless others, but we are blessed in return. Let’s get to work.

    My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.



    This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
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    6 分