Day 17

Years ago we lived in Indiana and our family lived here in Illinois. The kids and I went on the adventure from Fort Wayne, IN to Normal, IL about once every other month, or so. On one particular trip the kids had fallen asleep while we drove home on Route 24. I knew if I stopped they would wake up....so I kept driving. Well, after a few cups of coffee and several bottles of water, I was ready to be home. On those back roads you don't see too many cars-or police-except for this one particular day. When I saw flashing lights behind me I cringed, the drive was about to get longer. As soon as the car stopped both boys woke up asking "are we home?" No, we weren't. The officer that came to the car door seemed like he was brand new, maybe his first day on the job. He asked if there was an emergency of sorts that would cause me to be driving too fast. I explained that the kids and I were just ready to be home. I think he was asking if someone was injured or dying, not that I'd had too many fluids and wanted to be home! Anyway, he took my license and registration and the wait began. The kids were still in car seats at the time and they had so many questions about the flashing lights, the officer's uniform, guns etc. When he came back to us, he had stickers for the boys and a warning for me to drive safely for the remainder of the trip. I don't think I had the heart to tell the boys that police officers don't usually give out stickers but today was, well it was unique!

Day 17
The Ministry of Intercessory Prayer, Andrew Murray

What to Pray: For Those in Authority

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

What faith in the power of prayer! At the time this text was written it was a few weak and despised Christians that were expected to influence the mighty Roman emperors and help in securing peace and quietness. But their faith in prayer was what made the difference. It wasn't their own strength or power or influence but that of the Holy Spirit. And so must we pray for our country, our president, his cabinet, our governors, and all those who rule in the affairs of men, that they might rule with integrity and in the fear of God. When God's people unite, they can count upon their prayers affecting all that is done, seen and unseen. Let us pray in obedience to God's Word and be thankful for our freedoms and privileges.

How to Pray: As a Sweet-Smelling Offering to God

"Another angel, who had a golden censer, came and stood at the altar. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all the saints, on the golden altar before the throne. The smoke of the incense, together with the prayers of the saints, went up before God from the angel's hand. Then the angel took the censer, filled it with fire from the altar, and hurled it on the earth; and there came peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning and an earthquake" (Revelation 8:3-5).

Not only is prayer a sweet-smelling offering to God, it is powerful and effective on the earth. God works through the prayers of His people. The prayers that reach heaven have their share in the history of this earth. We need to take our prayer time as seriously as God takes it. Intercession is not a ritual or a pastime. It is the power of God among men. Be assured that your prayers enter God's presence and are used for His glory.

Your Own Prayer Requests:

~2 Chronicles 7:14
~Grab your journal and jot down the suggestions made regarding who to pray for. Those in authority over our country need our prayers, ask God to help you to remember to pray.

I once saw a sign in a front yard with the chapter and verse listed above. I knew it was a Bible verse but thought it odd to see it on a sign in a front yard. As I drove through the neighborhood I saw several more. If you ever wonder what you can pray to see results, pray Scripture. Pray back to God His own word with the fervency of need and believe that He will answer. Read 2 Chronicles 7:14.