The call to Stand Firm: Why rise in prayers?

Elijah, a prophet from the Northern Kingdom of Israel, stood firm in defending the worship of Yahweh against the false worship of Baal. He was a prophet blazing with zeal and passion for the Lord. Elijah understood the power of serving Yahweh, a power that was evident even though he did not have the Holy Spirit living inside him. Today, the spirit of Elijah still moves among men, inspiring them in ways that transcend time. How is it that Elijah, who did not have the Holy Spirit in him, could stand firm for God, and yet we who have the Holy Spirit in us often fall short? Greater works we shall do, but only if we find God in the place of prayer.

The importance of prayer has been evident throughout history, from the days of old until now. Some possibilities cannot be realized until we awaken to the call of God. We have a role model in Jesus, whose life exemplified a fiery passion for God. If we desire to live a powerful life, we must follow the example of Jesus.

God is searching for men who are hungry, men who are willing to fill the void in their hearts with His presence. We all have a part to play in this mission. When it comes to prayer, there must be a driving force behind it—hunger for Christ and for His presence. We do not need the wrong philosophies of the world; instead, we need to break through the earthly laws and orders through prayer, bringing revival in the process.

Unfortunately, the spirit of error has infiltrated the Church, causing many to dilute and "anglicize" the Word of God. Some now believe the Word is subject to the world's happenings, and the spirit of error has become normalized even among the children of God. Many now think their own philosophies are enough to guide them, asking, "What do we need God for?" But this is where we must stir our hearts again, desiring the knowledge and presence of the Lord. It's time to reject the wrong messages circulating, messages that confuse God's people. We must rise up, reignite our fire, and deliver the earth and nature from the grip of the enemy.

It’s time for God’s watchmen to rise in prayer. We must become angry at immorality and at all things that do not reflect the power of the Lord. It’s time to stand up, take our positions, and pray with urgency. We cannot be afraid—this earth must be won for the Lord. The Spirit of God desires to partner with men to reveal His power to the world.

God gave power to His prophets of old, even though the Holy Spirit was not in them. How much more now, that the Spirit of God dwells within us? We need to pray, focus our minds on prayer, roar against the kingdom of darkness, and win the earth back to God. The fire of revival cannot be quenched.

Elijah was not afraid of the trials he faced; he stood alone to ensure that the counsel of the Lord was carried out on the earth. He knew the God he served. We must pray for souls to be saved, for the policies of this world to be changed, and for strategies to transform the earth. We are God's warriors in this end time, and we need the spirit of Elijah to rise up and bring God's people back to righteousness.

Certainly, the enemy will fight, but the earth belongs to the Lord, and His knowledge will spread. Arise, men of God! It’s time to take our place in prayer. Enough is enough of the devil's hold over God’s people. If we do not pray, many will never hear the Gospel, and the delay of His coming will continue. We must pray, speak to God, cry out to Him—enough of the devil's hold! Things must change, and people must be freed. God desires to give you freedom from the enemy. Great things are in store for those who love the Lord.

Stay revived

What Does it Take to be a Friend of God?

What Does it Take to be a Friend of God?

I once sang in a choir, and we had a call-and-response song: "Are you a friend of God?" The answer was, "I am a friend of God." The writer of that song was inspired by Abraham's walk with God. God called Abraham His friend, a mere mortal! (James 2:23 MSG)

James 2:23 MSGV had this to say about Abraham: 

23 The full meaning of "believe" in the Scripture sentence, "Abraham believed God and was set right with God," includes his action. It's that mesh of believing and acting that got Abraham named "God's friend."

But What Does It Take to Be a Friend of the Highest God? 

Abraham wasn't just a believer; he acted on his faith without hesitation. He obeyed God's instructions, and that's what made him a friend of God.

I recently had a conversation with a 9-year-old about God. I asked her, "What would you like to become?" She mentioned several professions, and I asked if she had asked God. She laughed, unsure if God could speak to her. I encouraged her to ask God to speak to her through dreams.

CAN GOD SPEAK TO US? 

Yes, He does. He loves it too. 

During the middle of the year, I attended this women's conference. Every speaker who taught from their experience described how finding God's voice changed their life. I used to be that confused little girl with many insecurities, but after attending this conference, I wanted to hear God's voice too. 

And yes, I have. 

God wants to speak to us more than we want to talk to him about.

As we grow in our knowledge of God and walk with Him, we come to a point where He calls us friends. I want God to be my friend, partner, and companion in life. Knowing God as God is beautiful but knowing Him as a friend is the best.

Studying Abraham's life, I noticed his prompt obedience. It was as if he was determined to please God. When God wanted to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, He told His friend Abraham. Lot was spared because Abraham had a "friendship" with God. Abraham was all out for God with the "what can I do for Him today attitude?" 

God wants to be our friend at all times and for all times. When we cultivate this friendship, we are open to daily benefits. So, I ask again, Can God call you His friend? 

Are you a friend of God? 

Stay Revived!

By Guest writer.

Why Find Gratitude in Adversity?

 Pressed But Not Crushed: Finding Gratitude in Adversity

Last week was World Thanksgiving Day, but I am still feeling grateful to God for His goodness and faithfulness. Maybe it's because I had filled my year with so much nagging, complaining, and questioning of God's goodness amid adversity.

A Year of Unexpected Challenges 

Some had recently asked me to describe my year in one word, I said "extraordinary" because the events were unexpectedly extraordinary. 

My family began the year with unexpected debt, which cost us our only valuable property. This threw us into unexpected crises and constant conflicts, testing our resilience and faith. The days were filled with tears and pains, and the enemy sought to steal our joy, but God's goodness prevailed.

Finding Strength in God's Goodness

I am praising God today, not because my year was perfect, but because the Lord held me throughout the trials and tribulations. I am praising God because His mercies said no to the enemy, and His goodness gave me the strength to persevere in adversity.

A Psalm of Thanksgiving

Psalm 124 MSG says: "If God hadn't been for us... we would have been swallowed alive by their violent anger... swept away by the flood of rage... We've flown free from their fangs, free of their traps, free as a bird." It depicts the overwhelming seasons I experienced during the year, and how God's goodness helped me navigate them.

Reflections on God's Faithfulness

When David spoke of "the flood," my mind went to the children of Israel crossing the Red Sea, surrounded by enemies. And here was God, doing what He does best - showing up and turning things around amid adversity.

As the psalmist said, "If the Lord had not been on my side, the enemy would have stolen my health." What about you? What are you most grateful for in 2024? Any miracle is a miracle, no matter how small, and it's a testament to God's goodness and faithfulness.

The year seemed tough, but what if the Lord wasn't on our side? What if the Lord wasn't in the picture? Do you think the enemy would have allowed the "little joy that transcends your soul"? The enemy tried to steal your joy, but the Lord said No!

I feel so much alive, like a bird, as I reflect on God's goodness and the many times He came through amid adversity. 

Indeed, what if the Lord had shut His eyes as we thought? 

What are you most grateful for? 

Stay Revived!

By Guest writer.

What is that Good short prayer that works?

Growing up, I had a very narrow view of prayer. I used to think it had to be serious—no smiles, no distractions. "If you don't kneel, God won't listen," I thought. Over time, my understanding of prayer evolved. It became a lifestyle for me, and I started to love the idea of talking to God about everything on my mind. But I know I'm not alone in feeling that prayer can sometimes be difficult or even intimidating. I once had a friend tell me that she didn’t know how to pour out everything to the Lord, and that’s a struggle many face. The truth is, prayer isn't as complicated as it seems. It’s simply about being open and honest with God, speaking to Him from the heart.

What Is Prayer?

At its core, prayer is a two-way conversation between God and us, based on His Word. In prayer, we bring our petitions, worries, and desires to God, trusting that He can answer. God knows we may feel anxious after we pray, but He encourages us not to worry. In Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV), He reminds us: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

There are a few steps to praying I would like us to consider and also apply in our daily lives, especially when we've prayed and are in the waiting season.

Easy Practical Steps to Prayer:

There are a few key steps that can help guide our prayer life, especially when we find ourselves in the waiting season:

1. Adoration and Praise: Begin by adoring God and blessing His holy name. Just like when you approach a king, eulogizing Him makes Him eager to hear your request. Praising God stirs God's heart up.

2. Confession and Thanksgiving: Confession is important as we acknowledge our mistakes and seek God’s forgiveness. Thanksgiving is essential, too—giving thanks for all God has done, is doing, and will do, even before the answers come.

3. Supplication (Making Requests): This is where we present our needs and desires to God. But remember, prayer goes beyond asking for what we want. It’s about seeking His will and trusting His timing.

Prayer goes beyond this, different types of prayer are essential

Intercessory Prayer: This is when you pray on behalf of others, interceding for people, nations, or situations. You don’t have to know them personally to pray for them. Intercession builds unity and encourages God’s intervention it consistently causes God to Intervene in the affairs of the parties involved. (1 Timothy 2:1-4, Galatians 6:2)

Silent prayer and Groaning: Silent prayer happens in the heart. Sometimes, words fail us, and all we can do is pray silently, trusting that God hears us. Groaning is when we pray beyond words, and the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf. 1 Samuel 1:12-13 and Genesis 24:45 show us how God understands our deepest cries.

Thanksgiving Prayer: Should we give thanks when we have not gotten the answers we desire? Even before we receive what we ask for, it’s important to give thanks. Thanksgiving is not just an expression of gratitude, but also a way to invite more blessings. King David exemplified this kind of prayer, praising God even before the answer came. After Presenting our prayers to God in faith we must wait in thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is an application for more, Thanksgiving sets us in line for the miraculous, it is appreciating God for what He has done, What He will do, and What He is doing.

Praying with Specificity

When we pray, it’s important to be specific. Don’t just offer vague prayers—be direct about what you want and need from God. And always back your prayers with God’s Word. Reading and knowing the Bible allows you to pray with authority, quoting verses that align with God’s promises. Praying in line with His Word accelerates results and strengthens our faith. Even Jesus prayed persistently, asking God for the same thing more than once. So, don’t give up—keep pressing in prayer until you see the answers. Prayer has transformative power—it lightens your heart, relieves worries, and brings you closer to God.

Trusting God’s Timing

Sometimes, it can feel like God isn’t listening, or that your prayers are going unanswered. But remember, there’s no time wasted in the Lord. His timing is perfect, and He makes everything beautiful in its season. God hears even the smallest requests. I remember during my service year, I asked God for a free ride one morning, and within minutes, I got exactly that. God hears us. No matter how small or big your request may seem, don’t give up. Keep pressing on in faith, and trust that God will answer.

Making prayer a lifestyle is one of the best things you can do. It changes everything, strengthens your relationship with God, and transforms your life. So, I encourage you to make prayer a priority. It’s not just about asking—it’s about connecting with God, growing in faith, and experiencing His love.

I pray that the Lord gives you the strength to partner with Him and give your life a fresh perspective. Amen, and God bless you!