24 Days Of Prayer

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Day 1 – The Creator – by Melanie Markunes

Scripture: Genesis 1:1-3; John 1:3; Psalm 19

Devotion: Have you ever made something and eagerly shared it with others? How would you feel if someone else took the credit for it—or worse, if no one every acknowledged your work at all?

Our God—the One and Only—is the Creator of all things. Can you begin to grasp how powerful, remarkable, and magnificent that is? Without Him, nothing would exist.

There are many ways to describe God, but first and foremost, He is Creator. Without our Creator, there is no creation, there is nothing without our Creator.

Prayer: God, our Creator, You are worthy, holy, and perfect. Thank You for all Your beautiful creations. As Psalm 150 says, “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” Amen

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Day 2 – The World God Made - by Melanie Markunes

Scripture: Genesis 1:2-25; Psalm 8

Devotion: God’s earthly creations are truly spectacular. Every time I ride my bike along a trail, I’m surrounded by the beauty of His incredible handiwork. The blue-sky peeks through as I pass through a variety of trees and plants. I’ve seen deer, snakes, frogs, hummingbirds, moths, and streams. I’ve heard the calls of owls and cardinals, along with the crunching of leaves beneath my tires. I’ve breathed in the scent of fresh rain, flowers, and crisp air. Being out in nature—in the quiet majesty of God’s creation—you can truly sense His presence. As one wise man once said, “Good job, God.”

Prayer: Lord, thank You so much for creating such a beautiful earth for us to live on. May I always respect and care for Your creation. Your goodness and glory shine through everything You have made. Praise and honor to our mighty Creator! Amen

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Day 3 - We are created in His image - by Michael Brown

Scripture: Genesis 1:26-31; Colossians 3:10

Devotion: As a creation, you know the joy of building, imagining, and expressing something deep within. That desire didn’t start with you; it started with God. The very first thing we learn about Him in Scripture is that He created. And when He made us, He didn’t do so randomly. He said, “Let us make mankind in our image.”

Being made in God’s image means you reflect His heart, His nature, and yes... His creativity. Your ability to design, draw, write, build, or dream isn't a side trait. It’s divine DNA. Every sketch, melody, or idea is a glimpse of the Creator moving through His creation.

Paul writes in Colossians that as believers, we are being renewed in the image of our Creator. That means our creativity, when surrendered to Christ, isn't just a talent, it becomes a tool for transformation. You’re not just making art. You’re echoing heaven.

Prayer: This week, ask God to use your creativity to reflect His goodness. Whether you paint, film, sing, write, or do whatever you do to refill your creative tank, do it with the confidence that your gift is a mirror of His image.

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Day 4 - Downfall of Mankind and the Redemption Plan - by Dedele Otasanya

Scripture: Genesis 3:1-19; Romans 3:23-24

Devotion: Have you ever seen the video of the sheep stuck in a crack? Someone works hard to pull the sheep out. After all that effort, the sheep is finally free, takes a few joyful hops forward… and then jumps right back into the crack again. First, it’s funny. But the more you watch it, the more it starts to feel like real life.

That sheep is us.

In Genesis 3, we read about the very first-time sin entered the world. Adam and Eve were living in the garden, walking closely with God and enjoying all the good things they were given. Everything was perfect. But the enemy showed up and twisted God’s words, making them question if God was withholding something good from hem. They believed the lie and disobeyed. That choice brought sin, pain, and separation into the world. It was the downfall of mankind.

But even in that moment, God did not walk away. He held them accountable, but He also covered them, and He already had a plan to bring His people back.

Romans 3:23 reminds us that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. That means all of us. But verse 24 gives us hope. It says that we are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. Jesus is the rescue plan.

God knows we’ll fall short. He knows we’ll run back to the same mistakes.

But His grace doesn’t run out. Like the sheep in the video, we may keep jumping back into the same crack, but God keeps rescuing us because He loves us. That doesn’t mean we take grace for granted. It means we live grateful for the rescue and ask Him for the strength to walk in truth.

Let this be a reminder. We all fall short. But Jesus is enough. His plan is still working. And He is still rescuing.

Prayer: As you reflect on today’s devotion, take a moment to pray through these three things:

1. Thank God for the rescue plan. Thank Him for sending Jesus to save us and for always being ready to pull us out when we fall.

2. Ask God to help you recognize lies. Pray that He would help you see clearly when the enemy tries to twist truth and that you would learn to trust God’s voice more.

3. Confess where you’ve been stuck. If there’s a struggle or sin you keep going back to, talk to God about it. Ask for forgiveness and for strength to walk in freedom.

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Day 5 – You can Repent – Dr. Vanessa Edwards

Scripture: Genesis 3; 1 Peter 1:18-19; Romans 8:35-39; John 16: 7-14

Devotion: Redeemer definition: A releasing effected by payment of ransom, deliverance, liberation procured by the payment of a ransom, to redeem one by paying the price.

What a privilege it is to have a Savior, a deliverer, one who paid the ultimate price for our sins as our redeemer. Just as Adam and Eve sinned against our creator God in the beginning, in Genesis. We too have sinned against God. The scripture says, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Because God sent His son to pay the ransom for our sins in full, we don’t have to hide in shame. Trying to cover up what we’ve done. We can go before the throne of grace with confidence and find mercy and grace to help in our time of need. As we saw in Genesis 3 after Eve gave the fruit to her husband, who was with her, to eat and he ate.

· Then their eyes were opened

· They knew they were naked

· They sewed fig leaves together and made for themselves loin coverings

· They hid themselves from the presence of the Lord

What was God’s response? How did He respond after they sinned? God called to the man and asked a series of questions. Where are you? Who told you that you are naked? Have you eaten from the tree I commanded you not to eat? God did not condemn them nor turn his back on them for going against His word. He came to them and sought them out. Yes, there were consequences rendered. But God still loved them, He still cared for them, He still wanted to have a relationship with them. He would still use them to carry out His purposes. Genesis 3:14-19 seems disheartening because punishments were being laid out, yet during this discourse, God shares His redemptive plan. His plan to bring salvation and deliverance through the seed of the woman.

When the Holy Spirit convicts you of sin, how do you respond? Sometimes I find myself responding as our ancestors responded. Covering the sin or making excuses as to why I responded or acted a certain way. Or “hiding” from the Lord. Now we know that there is no place we can go from His presence. But we may “hide” by retreating and not communing with God as we did before the sin. Because we serve a God that is a relational God, a God who wants to commune with us. There is no need to retreat. So, when the Holy Spirit opens your eyes and reveals that you have missed the mark. Run to Jesus, our Redeemer, the one who paid the ultimate price for our sins so that we could walk in newness of life. You will find His arms open wide ready to receive you and forgive you of all your sins and to remember them no more.

Prayer: Thank God for sending Jesus to pay the ransom for our sin- 1 Peter 1:18-19

Thank God that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus- Roman 8:35-39. Thank God for the conviction of the Holy Spirit John 16:7-14

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Day 6 – We have access to the throne and God speaks to us – By Chris Frey

Devotion: God still speaks to his children, tap into that holy spirit power!

God’s word tells us “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” Not to be a downer, but chances are very good you will face trouble today. Trouble comes in many forms, but take heart, you have the power, living in you, to make your way through each one. Don’t take that for granted, and don’t take it lightly! The God of the universe who created you, marked your path, and sustains you has given you the gift of himself.

When you seek your heavenly father for daily guidance, he is faithful to give you that guidance. Yes, He does speak to us. While God can choose to speak to us in any way he wants, He typically speaks to us through the Holy Spirit living in us and fellow believers. He teaches us what the scriptures we are reading mean to us through the thoughts he places in our minds. He confirms the words He’s spoken to us through scripture, and in our thoughts, by giving those words of confirmation to fellow believers to share with us. He directs the circumstances of our lives to confirm the direction He has given, and He gives us all the tools we need to accomplish that direction.

The world we live in is getting uglier by the day, and Satan and his legions are out to seek, kill and destroy. But you have nothing to fear, because the power living in you is greater than anything this world can throw at you.

In my opinion, the greatest gift the Holy Spirit gives us is praying on our behalf. He knows the will of the Father; He knows the desires of our hearts, and he prays in accordance with the will of the Father on our behalf.

Today might be one of those days that you simply just don’t know what to pray. Allow the Holy Spirit to pray on your behalf. Our sinful nature can get in the way. We can be easily distracted by thoughts. Praying through the Spirit living in you and your heart in tongues, bypassing your natural intellect, is edifying in ways you could never imagine. Even the apostle Paul, spoke of how much praying in tongues privately with God, built him up. It is a narrow road and few will find it, deception doesn’t happen overnight, just as maturity in faith doesn’t. Daily choices mark your path. It is Satan’s goal to steal your choices of today, to ensure you take the path of destruction and not life. The lure to sin is strong, but it can be overcome, if you choose to allow the Holy One to guide you through it.

Prayer:   Thank you, Lord, that you are a God that does not change. Thank you for speaking to us through your word and revealing the deep things of God through your Holy Spirit. I believe your promises are ‘yes’ and ‘amen’. I believe you are a God that will not lie. I trust in your word and the Holy Spirit’s power to help me to serve, to guide me, to sanctify and transform me. May these days of prayer help me to understand I can have even more as the Holy Spirit intercedes for me and ways I may not understand, but I will believe! - By Mary Thomas

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Day 7 – God Speaks to Us – Part 2 – By Sherry Douglas

Scripture: John 1:1, 14, 18; Romans 1:20; Acts 16:6-10; Colossians 2:7; Ephesians 3:17; Jeremiah 17:7-8

Devotion: Have you heard of the practice of “grounding?” It involves doing activities that “ground” or connect you with the electrical currents of the earth. There is evidence to suggest this can give positive benefits to your body. Some people simply walk around barefoot in the grass while others use grounding equipment. I’ve never practiced it purposefully, but this made me think about other ways I recognize I’m grounded; other ways I recognize the way God speaks.

As I watched the sunset at my home one evening, I was reminded that it grounds me. Not in the sense that walking barefoot in the grass does, but deep in my spirit. I’m reminded there is a Creator who is all-powerful and a lover of beauty that I am connected with. That grounds me. I am reminded that the world doesn’t revolve around me. That grounds me. I am reminded there is evening and there is morning – a new beginning – and that grounds me. I hear Him speak.

Other beautiful experiences also ground me. The laughter of my children and grandchildren reminds me of the joy the Lord gives. The birds chirping in the early mornings remind me that if the Lord cares for each one of them, how much more he cares for me. Reading and focusing upon Scripture, how to love God and others is foundational! That grounds me. I hear Him speak.

These “groundings” are beneficial to my body, but more so to my mind and spirit. What about you? What grounds you? How do you hear God speak? Walking in nature as you hold the hand of a loved one? Working in and enjoying your beautiful garden? Or, having everyone in your family sitting at the table together sharing your day with one another?

This week let’s think about what “grounds” us as we move through our ordinary everyday lives. And then…make the time and take the opportunity to give God the glory for grounding us and speaking to us!

Prayer: Lord, we thank you because you still speak to us.  We have so many examples of your speaking to Abraham, Moses, Joshua, the high priests, the prophets, and now you speak to us through your word.  We thank you for the dreams and visions that point to your second coming and challenge us to be ready to serve in your kingdom.  Help us to always remember we are pilgrims traveling through. This world is not our home. Our hope is in you. Just like a tree draws nourishment from its roots, so, too, we are called to be rooted and grounded in Christ. Give us the strength and the stability.  Give us the gentle reminders that we can to all things through Christ who strengthens us. Amen – By Mary Thomas

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Day 8 – A Heart Remodeled – with Scripture and Prayer – By Hollee Stanton

Scripture: Philippians 1:6; Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 28:19–20

Devotional: Did you know that your physical heart is capable of literally remodeling itself? Motivated to keep you alive and functioning, the human heart can adjust its structure, grow new electrical pathways, and even shift slightly in its position—all so it can do its job more effectively.

In a far more profound way, when we surrender our lives to Christ, He begins remodeling our spiritual hearts.

Through the ongoing process of sanctification, God changes us from the inside out. He reshapes our desires, strengthens us in areas of weakness, and removes what no longer glorifies Him. As Philippians 1:6 reminds us:

“He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

This spiritual remodeling isn’t just for our benefit—it’s for His purposes. As Ephesians 2:10 says:

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

God not only transforms us, but also calls us to walk in the good works He’s planned—together, as one body.

Through the Holy Spirit, He connects us to fellow believers for support and encouragement. He shapes us into disciple-makers, inviting us to live out the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

This divine heart renovation continues for a lifetime, until He calls us home. So, the next time someone asks if you’ve considered remodeling, don’t miss the chance to share about the Ultimate Contractor—Jesus—who is doing a transforming work in your heart that lasts forever.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for beginning a good work in me. I surrender my heart to You—again and again—as You reshape me into Your image. Remove what doesn’t honor You, and build in me what will reflect Your glory. Help me to walk in the good works You’ve prepared and to faithfully carry out the mission You’ve entrusted to all believers. Remind me daily that I am not alone in this process—that Your Spirit is with me, guiding and strengthening me. Remodel my heart, Lord, until the day You bring me home. In Your name, Amen.

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Day 9: Intimacy with God – By Aaron Seelbaugh

Scripture: Deuteronomy 5:7-9; 6:5; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Revelation 2:4-5

Devotion: A deep, intimate relationship with God is more accessible than we often realize. How so? The answer is simple, it’s because it's left up to us. Individually we hold the power to dive deeper into a relationship with God or push Him far away. God has always been pursuing you, even in the times when you didn’t notice Him. Ever since you were placed into your mother’s womb, God’s love, affection, and His passion, was to have you know Him as much as He knows, loves, cares for, and adores you. What an amazingly beautiful and comforting truth it is to know that we serve a God who is so invested in us.

Prayer: God, I want to pursue you with everything I have. Even in the midst of my discomfort, struggles, falling short of Your glory, my joy, my accomplishments, and my blessings. Let me always continue to acknowledge You. You have always been there for me and always will be. So even when I feel like You are absent, please let me remember that my relationship with You is not based on feelings. But instead, it is based on Truth. Your Love has never failed, for generations You have proven that You were and are always present. So, I pray for continued strength wisdom and guidance to read Your Words, seek your presence, and pray without ceasing. Amen.

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Day 10 - Listening Prayer - By Kathleen Bledsoe

Scripture: Psalm 46:10; John 10:27-28

“Stop striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted on the earth.”

“My sheep listen to My voice and I know them, and they follow Me, and I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.”

Devotion: When my son was only a year old, he was scheduled for eye surgery. He was constantly sick, and I was concerned that he wouldn’t survive it. One night before the surgery I rocked him and prayed and rocked and prayed and rocked and prayed and prayed and prayed for hours. Finally, out of exhaustion I stopped praying, sat silently, and listened. God told me that as much as I love my son, He loves him more and that my son would be alright. A blanket of peace covered my frazzled soul. Instead of fearing the surgery I trusted the Great Physician.

What a powerful message! My approach to prayer changed. I asked my Heavenly Father to help me to do my part to care for my son while remembering that our God can be trusted. He is worthy to listen to.

Even now I need to make sure that I don’t have one-sided conversations with the Creator of the universe. Is anything stronger than God’s love? Do I know better than Him? Definitely not. Besides, how much can I learn about someone if I do all the talking?

Listening can be challenging. The world is full of needs and prayer requests. My mind is bombarded with information and noise, but it is well worth pausing to listen to the Holy Spirit. I have more breakthroughs if I pause and listen for God’s direction instead of rattling off a spiritual checklist. I can understand His will better if I listen to His Word.

The message of the assurance of God’s amazing love was comforting when my son had surgery. Years later it continues to bring confidence in God’s faithfulness and peace. I wouldn’t have that valuable message if I hadn’t listened. I needed to hear His voice and follow Him. I still do.

Prayer: Father God help me listen to you. Help me to quiet my soul, ignore distractions, and pay attention to Your voice in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

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Day 11: The Importance of Prayer – By Howard Walker

Scripture: Ephesians 6:18; 1 Peter 5:8; James 5:16; Matthew 5:11

Devotion and Prayer: “Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.”

“Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour.” “It is for this cause, Lord that we…Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is very powerful in its effect.” May we always be mindful that we are… forever “blessed when they insult you and persecute you and falsely say every kind of evil against you because of me. They may, and absolutely some, will hate us because we speak the truth. Lord, may we continue to see your face and continue to grow in boldness - because we have become convinced that each moment of hatred we see and feel is an actual blessing to us. May we… Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets of old who were before you. Our rejoicing is linked to the fact that we see your Word living in our lives; though our times of great pain and experience of resentment towards us.

Lord, Just as Elkanah, son of Jeroham, son of Elihu, son of Tohu, son of Zuph, an Ephraimite…. endured the pain of having two wives, the first named Hannah and Peninnah. … but the first, Hannah was childless. Yet, whenever Elkanah offered sacrifice - he offered a double portion of the meat from it to his wife Hannah - in the face of his pain lay. And after some time, Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son who became one of the great Old Testament prophets, Samuel … And Paul the apostle accepted the word from the Lord in his affliction. In the face of his great pain. Lord Jesus, help us! May we Lord be willing to accept the Mostly Godly fact as you told us. ”My grace is sufficient for thee.” In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

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Day 12 - The Power of Prayer in Testing – By Christina Clark

Scriptures: James 1:12, Ephesians 6:10-18, 1 Corinthians 15:58

Devotion: Have you ever heard anyone facing a trial say something like “I wish this (fill in the blank trial) came with a set of instructions”? Maybe you’ve even had that thought yourself. The good news is that every trial we face, whether big or small, is not a surprise to God AND He’s already provided us with the ultimate set of instructions in His word: the Holy Bible.

When (not if) we are faced with trials, we have must choose how to respond. God’s word tells us in James 1:12 that those who persevere under trial will be blessed. How do we do this?

· We must prioritize time to be still, to pray and to listen.

· We must get into the Word daily and memorize scripture.

· We must be in relationship with other believers, who will share our burden.

· We must trust God and know that how we respond reveals our level of devotion and commitment to Him.

Doing these things not only requires discipline but also the desire, trust and patience to wait for God’s timing. God’s testing is intended for our good and to see if we will follow His commands. As we rely on Him, we build spiritual endurance, which brings us into a closer relationship with Him.

In our weakest moments, we must learn how to equip ourselves for battle. Ephesians 6: 10-18 tells us to put on the full Armor of God. As you read those scriptures, look at yourself in the mirror. Then physically go through the motions of:

· Buckling the belt of truth around your waist

· Holding the breastplate of righteousness in front of your heart

· Planting your feet in the ready position

· Holding the shield of faith to fend off all of the flaming arrows that Satan is shooting at you.

Once your armor is on, be alert and always ready to pray in the Spirit!

Prayer: Perseverance in testing. Dear Lord, help me to learn to rejoice in my sufferings, because I know that your Word says that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Today I pray that I will become a person of extreme perseverance, not allowing difficulties or delays to discourage me. I ask for patience and persistence that will build my character as I am in a “holding pattern” of waiting for my circumstances to improve. Help me to see that is easier for me to persevere than to live with the regret of giving up hope. Thank you for your gift of perseverance. Amen.

Devotion: Blessed when we are insulted, persecuted? Blessed when we encounter false accusations and experience all kinds of evil? Does the Lord really command us to rejoice and be glad?

Sometimes when hardships come, disappointments are around every corner and our hearts become so discouraged, it's hard to praise and worship the Lord. We find ourselves muttering under our breath like Hannah "If you will only look upon your servant's misery.". We must choose to remember in those moments that God sees all and He is good. His grace is sufficient and if we choose every day to keep walking alongside Him, He will see us through.

Prayer: Lord, in those times when I feel like I am drowning in disappointment and despair, help me to look up and to turn my eyes towards you. Help me in my wavering doubt to choose to believe that you will see me through. Amen.

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Day 13 – The Power of Prayer in Strongholds - by Jennifer Sowers

Scripture: Matthew 5:11-12; 1 Samuel 1; 2 Corinthians 12:7-9; 1 Peter 4:12-19

Strongholds are spiritual walls, merely built brick by brick through fear, shame, addiction, anxiety and sin. These walls block us from building a beautiful relationship with God through healing, freedom and faith. But through prayer we can tear down those walls. In our Old Testament passage, God showed Cain that sin is always close, always waiting, that sin is crouching at the door. Strongholds try to control, trap and paralyze you. But God says, "'you must rule over it." We need to surrender to the power of prayer and live a life of peace and righteousness through Christ Jesus.

The next passage we are told "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." We are reminded that our self-control is done through Christ-power not willpower. Just like how Cain was told to rule over sin, Christ gives us the strength to do it through Jesus. Our strongholds will fall!

We are reassured through Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" When we trust in God, even our worst strongholds- temptation, fear, anxiety, and doubts are powerless. And prayer is how we invite God's power into our struggle. Today your waters may be troubled mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. In John 5:4, we are reminded of the miraculous story- the troubles of the waters. Healing came to those who stepped in with faith. Stepping into the water with faith invites God's movement, trusting he is the Healer.

Prayer: Repentance and Surrender- Lord I lay down every sin and fear that has become a stronghold in my life. I repent and surrender it all to you. Power in Christ Father, I thank you for I am not powerless. Fill me with the power of your Holy Spirit today. Strengthen me to overcome temptation, to walk in boldness and stand firm in my faith. I declare I am strong, not in my own ability, but in the power of Christ who lives in me. Strength to Stand Father, when I am weak, remind me that I can do all things through Christ. Empower me to walk in victory by your Spirit. Step in Faith God, help me take a step in my faith today. Help me to move when you call, to pray when you prompt me and to trust in you fully. Trust in the Healer God break every stronghold and release your healing where there has been pain. Let freedom flood every part of my life. Allow me to trust in you alone and allow you to heal my soul.

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Day 14 – The Power of Prayer in Temptations - By Libby Martin

Scripture: Romans 13:12-14; 1 John 2:15-17; Matthew 4:1-11; Romans 7:21-25; Romans 8:1

Prayer is not a ritual; it is our lifeline to God. It keeps us grounded, alert, and aware. When I pray, I am reminded that God loves me and wants to hear from me. Temptations will come, sometimes subtly and and sometimes strong. But remember, we don't fight alone. God's spirit empowers us, helping us to choose wisely, stand strong, and have the ability to say "no." Bring your areas of vulnerability to the Lord in prayer. He Lord in prayer. He empowers us to choose righteousness.

Prayer: Lord, I confess my weakness before you. Strengthen me when I am tempted. Help me to remain faithful in prayer. Thank you for being faithful, even when I am not. In Jesus name, Amen

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Day 15 - The Power of Prayer for our families (single moms, single life, infertility, miscarriages, raising children, foster care, prodigals, loss of children/adults): By Brittany Robinson

Scripture: 2 Samuel 12:23b; Proverbs 22:6; Psalm 128:3; Luke 15:11-32

Devotion: Our families are precious gifts from God, and prayer is our most powerful tool to nurture and protect them. Whether we are raising children, caring for foster children, praying for prodigals, or mourning the loss of loved ones, prayer connects us to God's wisdom, comfort, and guidance. Just as David’s words reflect his trust in God's sovereignty even in grief, we too can find peace in knowing that God’s love and power are at work in our families. Proverbs remind us to intentionally guide our children in the ways of the Lord, trusting that His promises will sustain them. Psalm 128 depicts the blessing and fruitfulness that come from a family rooted in God's presence. Prayer is the anchor that sustains us through every season, lifting our families into God's care and trusting in His perfect plan.

Prayer: We pray for wisdom and patience as you raise and nurture your children or those in your care. Intercede for prodigals, asking God to draw their hearts back to Him. Lift up families experiencing loss, asking for His comfort and peace to surround them. Pray for unity, love, and protection over your family, trusting in God's power to restore, heal, and sustain.

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Day 16: Prayers for Unity – by Donna LaChance

Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-6

Devotion: I think it is fair to say that our U.S. culture is experiencing increased levels of division. Political polarization, partisan loyalties, socio-economic disparities, racial and ethnic tensions, cultural clashes and the influence of the media and social media all contribute to fractures within our society. Yet, division among people is not new; it’s just the factors that contribute to it which may change over time. Even in the early church, there was division and that is why the Apostle Paul penned his words in Ephesians 4:1-6. Here he emphasizes the importance of unity within the church. Why is unity important? It directly impacts on our effectiveness in witnessing and ministering to others. To be church that changes our Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and the outermost parts, we must be rooted in unity, and we must value unity. We create and maintain unity by cultivating humility, gentleness, patience, and love within ourselves. Paul is calling each of us to live in a way that reflects the high calling we have received, and that begins with working on our humility, gentleness, patience and love. How are you doing in these areas? I encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit to reveal opportunities for spiritual growth in your life and to reveal to us as a church how we can better reflect the unity God requires.

Prayer: Father God, search my heart. Show me the people and the situations in my life where I need to demonstrate more humility, gentleness, patience and love. Help me rise to

the high calling of being more like Jesus. As a church, draw us nearer to one another in unity so that we may effectively witness to and serve others in a way that brings glory to You. Amen.

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Day 17 – Prayers for increase in faith – by Kim Brubaker

Scripture: Romans 1:17; Hebrews 11

Devotion: By faith.... Able. Enoch. Noah. Abraham. Sarah. Isaac. Jacob. Joseph. Moses. Israelites and the Red Sea. Joshua and the army in Jericho. Rahab and the spies. Gideon. Barak. Samson. Jephthah. David. Samuel and the prophets.

In Hebrews 11 we are given a list of names of individuals that exuded immense faith in God through their trials and circumstances. Many of us can't say that we come from that kind of lineage of faith.

What really is faith? What did these people do and believe that we can model for our own lives?

Merriam- Webster says faith is 1.) an allegiance to duty or a person 2.) belief and trust in and loyalty to God. 3.) something that is believed, especially with strong conviction

All the individuals in Hebrews-what they had in common with each other is their faith was based upon who they knew God to be, not on what their perception of God was. Their actions in their unique circumstances were based on who they knew God was, not on their current feelings about the situation they were in.

Abel knew that God cared more about what Abel believed about God than the sacrifice he brought. Noah, instead of allowing the ridicule and shame cast upon him in the unbelieving world he lived in, chose to believe what God warned him about and he acted on what he was told. Abraham, instead of staying and living in comfort- chose to follow God's command and call and to travel to an unknown land. He didn't succumb to the fear, he chose to believe who God said he was and to not rely on his present circumstances and how he felt about them.

By faith, each one of these people believed in the one who made a promise- that He would do what He said (v. 12 The Message).

What can be said of me? Do I base what I believe in God on how I currently feel about my present circumstance? Does the uncertainty of my surroundings make me uncertain of what God can do? Does the fear of the next steps make me afraid that God is not present? Is the fear of my unclear future, muddle my perception of who God is? As verse 7 says in The Message, "His act of faith drew a sharp line between the evil of the unbelieving world and the rightness of the believing world." What will be said of me? "By faith____(your name)__."

Prayer: Dear Jesus, our situations are so big in our own eyes. They produce all kinds of feelings that at times can change our actions. Help us to know deep in our spirits that the only way to not be led by our emotions is to get to know you more intimately. How we get to know you means we need to spend time with you and to be in your Word. Create a

desire, an unquenchable desire, to want to be in your presence. It will change the course of our lives. In Jesus, Amen.

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Day 18 – Prayers to Love One Another – By Adriana Davis

Scripture: Jude 20-21

Devotion: But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of your Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.

This verse encourages us to pray in the Holy Spirit and keep ourselves in the love of God. It is possible that the list of people that we pray for contains believers that we have not even met. However, you will be glad to know that when we pray for those that we have not met, there is one thing that we do, and, possibly, you do not even notice it. We become open to doing something nice for strangers (people that you have not even met). Isn’t that true? It is just too hard to know everyone in any one place. Becoming open is the best we can do because to pray to Love One Another we become more accepting of One Another, no matter where we are from. When we pray to Love One Another, we pray in the Holy Spirit so that we can see others as Jesus sees them or so that we can see the hope that Jesus has in them. Then notice how our words become a language of love. That reminds me of a Spanish word derived from the Nahuatl, Apapachar, which means to caress with the soul. Try to visualize your prayer as carrying love to the situation or to the stranger in your list. In Mexico, everyone wants to be apapachado (the person that receives the action of apapachar). It is like wanting many hugs. Try it and pray to Love One Another as if your words were carrying hugs to their situation and act on your prayer by giving them a hug if they are okay with it. And ask them about their walk with Jesus.

Prayer: Today, my prayer for you is that you remain in the body of Christ, the love of God, no matter what season in life you are going through now. You are not alone. We wait together for God’s mercy.

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Day 19 – Being Kind to One Another – By Christy Phillips

Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-12; 1 John 3:11-20; Ephesians 4:32

Devotion: When I worked outside the home, there was a woman who I worked with who was negative most of the time, seemed upset about everything, was constantly inconvenienced, and was generally disliked by everyone. One day, I was listening to her complain about her teenage daughter, and the Holy Spirit prompted me to give her some of the homemade pancake mix that I had just made over the weekend. Honestly, I didn’t want to. And for several weeks, I operated in disobedience until I finally gave her the pancake mix and told her maybe she and her daughter could make pancakes together, and it might be a way for them to connect. Several weeks later, she stormed into my office, demanding to know why I had given her pancake mix. But the core of her question was “Why were you kind to me, when no one else is?”

In today’s passages of scripture, we are told to love one another and not to repay evil with evil, to be like-minded and compassionate (I Peter 3:8-12) and to love not with words and speech but with actions and truth (I John 3:11-20). You see, it’s through our love that the world will notice a difference. Not love just in words or speech. But words that have actions attached to them. Love that is unmerited and seeks nothing in return. Love is what our enemy is trying to destroy. By dividing us into racial categories, political categories, denominational categories, socioeconomic categories, etc., he keeps us divided so that it’s harder to love. We are supposed to be like-minded in our mission to love one another. Love needs to consider others better than ourselves. Sometimes this love can be uncomfortable, but it’s what Jesus did for us. Jesus walked away from the comfort and grandeur of heaven to our broken, dirty, and fallen planet to love us into a relationship with Him. Jesus is calling us to the same love. We need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, because the potency of our faith is in the humility with which we love others, not based on our feelings, but on our actions and the motivation of our heart. Ultimately, our pride is the poison that keeps us from loving like Jesus.

I finally got over being uncomfortable with my coworker and showed kindness to her like Jesus, and it all began with a practical gift of pancake mix. God took that pancake mix and turned it into an opportunity to share my faith. And my co-worker? She was so shocked by that pancake mix that it opened a door for more opportunities to love her (through practical means), and then it led her to Jesus. Because it’s the kindness we show, when it’s not deserved, earned, or easy, that people will notice. Who do you need to show kindness to today? Perhaps it’s someone in your own home, maybe it’s a neighbor, coworker, or a random stranger in the grocery aisle, but do your actions reflect the selfless, servant love of Jesus?

Prayer: Lord, please help me this day to open my eyes to the way I have been living. Forgive me of my pride and help me to cultivate humility in my heart. Help me prioritize doing uncomfortable things for you that are not based on my convenience so that I can love like you do. Use me Father, to show your kindness, that others might notice for your glory alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Day 20 – Prayers for the Baptism of the Holy Spirit - By Dr. Terry Correll

Scripture: Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2; 10

Devotion: The prophecy of Joel, quoted by Peter in Acts 2, declares God’s desire to pour out His Spirit on all people. This truth is powerfully confirmed in Acts 10, when Cornelius and his household—non-Jews—receive the Holy Spirit. Their experience reveals the Holy Spirit transcends human expectations and traditional boundaries. It’s a powerful reminder that God’s grace and empowerment is for everyone. Being baptized in the Holy Spirit is more than a moment—He equips for service, bold witness, speaking through us, and living out God’s purposes. When we continually invite the Spirit to fill us, overflow from us, and pour out through us, we begin to walk in the abundant life God has promised.

Prayer: Father, we surrender our hearts and lives fully to You. Stir within us a deep hunger and thirst for the Holy Spirit’s presence and power. Fill us afresh. Activate the gifts You’ve placed within us, so we may serve, build up the body of Christ, and boldly represent You in every aspect of life. May we overflow with Your Spirit and impact the world around us for Your glory. Amen.

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Day 21 – There is an enemy – by Peter Montgomery

Scripture: Colossians 1:13; 1 Peter 5:8; Ephesians 6:11-13; Psalm 110:1; Romans 16:20; Ephesians 1:18-23

Devotion: “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son.” ESV 13:1 Colossians

When I was in middle school I was invited to go on a vacation with my best friend’s family. One of the spots we visited was Mammoth cave in Kentucky. A memory that has stuck with me for years is part of tour where we experienced “total darkness”. As they turned the lights out, the sense of direction was gone. You immediately felt lost, alone, not knowing where you should go or what you should do. The sense of confusion and fear quickly set in. After the lights were turned back on, comfort and relief returned. When the tour ended and we exited the cave I remember the presence of the sun, the sky, the trees, the grass. There was not only light, but there was also life all around!

Our enemy Satan desires that we are kept in spiritual darkness. Where death, fear and confusion reign. But as children of God, we have been transferred into Jesus’ kingdom where there is life, joy, peace and light!

Prayer: Thank you, Lord for complete deliverance from the enemy. When you were on the cross, you said, “It is finished”! Help me to understand the completed work of the cross. Yes, the enemy seeks to sift us like wheat, yes, he is prowling like a lion, yes, he desires to tempt us in our mind. But we claim deliverance, victory, and power over the enemy in the name of Jesus. You said, at the name of Jesus every knee must bow. You told us according to Ephesians 2 that the enemy is under my feet. I believe it! I claim it! It is done! By Mary Thomas

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Day 22 – Prayers for U.S. Government System – By Brittney Robinson

Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-6; Romans 13:1-6; James 3:1

Devotion: Our role as believers includes praying for those in positions of authority and governance. The Scriptures remind us that all authority is established by God, and therefore, our prayers for leaders, whether we agree with them or not, are vital. Praying for wisdom, integrity, and justice in our government is an act of faith and obedience. It is also a recognition that human institutions are imperfect, and only God's guidance can lead them into righteousness and truth. As we pray for our leaders, we participate in God's sovereign plan, trusting that He can work through imperfect systems to bring about His purposes. Our prayers can bring wisdom, accountability, and righteousness into the heart of our nation’s leadership.

Prayer: This week, let us pray earnestly for our government system, asking God to bring wisdom, integrity, and righteousness into leadership. Pray for leaders to be guided by truth and justice, for unity in our nation, and for God's peace to prevail. May God's light shine brightly in the halls of government, transforming policies and hearts for His glory.

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Day 23 – Prayers for the World Government System - By Helen Mumaw

Scripture: Psalm 2; Proverbs 21:1; 1 Timothy 2:1-2

In the world today, we can get caught up in the chaos that surrounds us. We watch the news, listen to various podcasters, and have access to SO many newspapers and thought leaders that, frankly, we find our heads spinning and our hearts anxious. But the Lord says in Phil 4:6 ”Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” We can be comforted knowing God is in control and has a plan and a purpose for everything.

We are also to be diligent and aware. And we are to PRAY! 1 Timothy 2:1-2 instructs us to “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” So, as we go about our day, and we hear news about international happenings, stop and pray for the leader of those countries or the leaders of the organizations and ask the Lord to draw them to Himself.

Prayer: Father God. We believe you know all things and are in control. We lift all the world leaders to You and ask You to draw them to Yourself. Reveal Yourself to them so that their “hearts will become a stream of water for You to channel toward all Your people” (Proverbs 21:1). Help them to be wise, to serve You with fear and to celebrate Your rule with trembling. (Psalm 2) Help me to trust You with all my heart and to lean not to my own understanding, but in ALL my ways acknowledge You and allow You to direct my path. (Proverbs 3: 5-6). Amen.

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Day 24 – Reaching our Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and The Uttermost Parts

Scripture: Acts 1:8; Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 13:7; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5

Devotion: Witnesses to the World — By Marluta Correll

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” — Acts 1:8 (ESV)

Before Jesus ascended to heaven, He didn’t give His followers a blueprint for building a church or a checklist of to-dos. Instead, He gave them a mission: “You will be my witnesses” (Acts 1:8). This verse outlines both the empowerment and the expansion of the gospel.

First, the empowerment: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.”

Jesus knew that the mission He was giving them couldn’t be accomplished by human effort. The Holy Spirit would provide the boldness, wisdom, and compassion needed to share the gospel faithfully. And that same Holy Spirit lives in us today as we desire and seek Him.

It is the filling of the Holy Spirit within our hearts that Christ is inviting us to receive. It is His love for us that tells the story and gives us the witness of His love and work in and through us to our world.

We are not witnesses of our own agendas. We are to take every opportunity to love God and others that He puts in our path. We witness the love of God working in and through us!

So be mindful of being a witness of His divine setups—i.e., when you meet a new person, see a neighbor at the store, or hear about someone in need of encouragement. Let your faith and creativity reach out.

We are witnessing with Jesus! We go with His presence and listen for His whispers as we take steps and interact with others. Our interactions and influence are to be an expression of the fruit of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. It is ultimately about the love of God for us and others.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Second, the expansion: “Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

This isn’t just geography—it’s strategy and symbolism.

· Jerusalem was home—the place where their journey began. For each of us today, we can be a vessel of the love of Jesus to influence those closest to us: our immediate family and friends.

· Judea was nearby—people similar to them, but outside their immediate circle. This often refers to coworkers, classmates, church members, and neighbors.

· Samaria represented those they might have avoided—culturally different, perhaps even socially rejected.

· The ends of the earth—that’s everyone else.

This verse calls us to live on mission, starting with where we are, but never staying there. We’re not just witnesses to our friends or church members—we’re witnesses to our city, to people unlike us, and to nations we’ve never seen.

Reflection Questions:

· Where is your Jerusalem—the people right around you who need to see Jesus through your life?

· Who represents Judea and Samaria specifically for you?

· What is one way you can pray, give, or go to reach the ends of the earth?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for giving me the power of Your Holy Spirit. Help me to be Your witness—not just in comfort zones but in every place You send me. Open my eyes to the people around me and stir my heart for the ones beyond my reach. May my life speak of Your love, truth, and grace—here and everywhere. Amen