Prayers That Avail Much

Prayers for Contemporary Times

This is the time for brave hearts and bold actions. Now is the time to be “joyful in hope, patient in afflictions, faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12 NIV  God looked down through the eons of time and he chose you for such a time as this. Now is the time for all good men and women to come to the aid of their country, whether you live here in the United States as I do, or in other lands.

I urge, *then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— ² for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. ³ This is good, and pleases God our Savior, ⁴ who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. ⁵ For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself as a ransom for all people. (1Timothy 2:1-6 NIV) *Read Chapter 1 for explanation of “then.”

The following prayers are from the heart of the Father!

Prayer for the President

Father, in the name of Jesus I offer up petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings for the man Barack Obama.  I believe that you have ordained and given him gifts to be used for your Kingdom and the good of mankind. I pray that Mr. Obama, who has been re-elected as President of the United States, will be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. He cannot work out his salvation in his own strength, but you are working in him, energizing and creating in him the power and desire to work for your good pleasure, satisfaction and delight. *Father, forgive him for the times he has misused and/or abused the power you have given him. I ask you, my God, to count him worthy of his calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of your goodness and the work of faith with power that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in him according to your grace.  I pray this in the majestic name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Scripture References: 1 Timothy 2; Romans 12:6; Philippians 2:12-13; John 20:23; 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12

Prayers of Intercession for the Judicial Branch of Government

For the word of the Lord is right and true; he is faithful in all he does.  The Lord loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of his unfailing love. (Psalm 33:4-5)

PRAYER 1

Dear Father, I lift up the judicial branch of our government, and petition you for men and women who will not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers. I’m asking for men and women who will delight in the law of the Lord, and on your law they will meditate day and night.

In obedience to your word, I put on the whole armor of God and on behalf of the United States Supreme Court justices and State Supreme court justices; I take my stand (side by side with followers of Jesus). I stand against the principalities, against the powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, and against the spiritual hosts of wickedness that seek to control their minds through ungodly reasoning that exalts itself above the knowledge of your Word.

Scripture References:  Psalm 1; Ephesians 6:12

Prayer 2 for the Judicial Branch

Father, in the name of Jesus, again I lift up the judicial branch of our government and forgive their unjust administration of law, the decisions that have been handed down in violation of true righteousness and justice. I forgive them for the times they have chosen death rather than life, chosen cursings instead of blessings.

Create within the heart and mind of each justice the power and desire to know wisdom and instruction, grant him/her the ability to understand words of insight, to receive instruction in wise dealing, in righteousness, justice, and equity.  O God, I pray that those who are yet to be appointed will know your laws and delight in the law of the Lord. They will have the wisdom of God to do justice. Father, grant America the judges who willexecute justice and righteousness, in the name of the Majestic Name of Jesus.

Scripture References:

John 20:23; Proverbs 1:2-4 (ESV); Ezra 7:25; 1 Kings 3:28; 1 Kings 10:9

Copyright © Germaine Copeland 2013

Next Week: Prayers for Israel and the Muslim Nations

Humbling myself before the Lord God Almighty, I asked what do you want prayed here on earth even as it is prayed in heaven? Lord, teach me to pray for the man, Mr. Obama, the President of the United States of America.

First, we must return to our First Love!  Our Father desires that we love one another and pray for one another so that we all may be healed and restored to a spiritual tone of mind and heart.  (James 5:16 AMP)

Second, the Church is to pray for all mankind, to offer thanksgivings for all men because it is my will that they be saved and come to the knowledge of the TRUTH!  Mankind shall know the Truth and the Truth will make them free.  I did not commission you to fight governments, but to go and make disciples of all nations. (I Timothy 2)

There were two spiritual awakenings in our nation, the first 1700-1760’s and the second 1800-1850. If there is to be a third great awakening, the church has to return to purity and pray according to the will of God!

How do you want me to pray?  I can’t teach others unless you teach me.

Father, in the name of Jesus I offer up petitions, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings for the man Barack Obama.  I believe that you have ordained and given him gifts to be used for your Kingdom and the good of mankind. I pray that Mr. Obama, who has been re-elected as President of the United States, will be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. He cannot work out his salvation in his own strength, but you are working in him, energizing and creating in him the power and desire to work for your good pleasure, satisfaction and delight. *Father, in the name of Jesus I forgive him for the times he has misused and/or abused the power you have given him. I ask you, my God, to count him worthy of his calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of your goodness and the work of faith with power that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in him according to your grace.  I pray this in the majestic name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

*Presidents, regardless of their party affiliation make mistakes because they are human beings.  They have their weaknesses and their strengths.  God uses them to accomplish His purposes.

Copyright © 2012 Germaine Copeland

Momentarily I was shocked when I heard my voice requesting an interview with the Most Holy God. Now I see it as a form of intercessory prayer. God, in His mercy allowed me to proceed.

“Father-God, the church prayed, prayer vigils were held, people gathered to worship you. I know that you never fail even one word of your promise, but I am puzzled about where we are as the Church. We are more divided than ever! Many are in a state of confusion, and confusion is not from you. According to the scriptures as I understand them, you have not failed; I need to hear from you. Where did we miss it; where do we go from here?  Teach me to pray.  Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.”

His answer astonished me:

• Many focused on abortion and same-sex marriage, opening the door to anger, resentment and even bitterness toward people that I have come to save.
• Many placed their trust in a man and a political system. Ignoring Ephesians 6:12, they positioned themselves against one another.
• There are seven things I hate listed in Proverbs 6:16-19. I came to earth to save people who are guilty of committing these sins. 
• “My commission to the church is clear; it is simple.  Go and make disciples of all nations!

Another question, Lord. Why are you asking me to pray for the man, Barak Obama? 

• I have multitudes who are praying for President Obama, but few who are praying for the man. (Really, Lord, multitudes?)

• I knew him before the foundation of the world, and my plans for him are from the beginning. 

• I ordained him to be a leader and gave him gifts to be used for my Kingdom and the good of mankind.
• Satan desires to pervert the gifts

Lord, you taught me to pray the Scriptures.

• Can we apply 2 Chronicles 7:14 to our nation in the year 2013? 
• Can we stand in the gap and build up the hedge as in Ezekiel 22:30?

Remember: Hebrews 8:5-7; Luke 10:19; James 5:14; 1 John 5:14-15, Ephesians 1:18-22; 2:5-10; 6:10-12.

Lord, teach me to pray for the man, Mr. Obama, who is the President of the United States of America.

Look for Part 3 next week

The Prayer

My heart sang, “America, America, God shed his grace on thee, and crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea.”

Only a few short weeks earlier another song hounded me day and night!  The words and melody would not stop! “If you can use anything Lord, you can use me…take my hands, Lord, and my feet…touch my heart, LORD…speak through me.” (The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir)

It all began a few days after November 6, 2012. Weary, after many nights of tossing and turning, I said, “Lord, if you are playing havoc with my sleep, I need to hear from you!”  It was too early to be awake, but opening my eyes I was faced with dense, supernatural darkness. Fear was lurking, waiting for an opportunity to strike! On election night, 2012, America changed, and I was in mourning for our nation and the church!

A sense of discouragement overwhelmed me as I got out of bed and started down the hallway to my place of prayer. The sound in my head wouldn’t go away and I needed answers.  “God, what do you want? Lord, you can use me…How do you want to touch my heart? What do you want me to speak? What do you want me to pray?  How can I pray for our nation with confidence?” 

• I (God) am at work in the man, Barack Obama (Phil 2:13)
• Now is the time to be “joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer (Romans 12:12, NIV).
• Continue in my Word and occupy until I come.
• Carry out to its completion the mandate I have given you.

Whether you are happy or disappointed that President Obama has been re-elected for a second term, you have an assignment from heaven.  On that dark early morning God touched my heart with His desire for the man, Barack Obama.  “I have multitudes praying for the President. Will you allow me to use your voice to pray for the man?”  I answered, “Yes, Lord.”  

My Bible was open to First Timothy 2, and I began, “God, I’m here to offer petitions, prayers, intercessions…could I please interview you?”  I was asking to Interview the Majestic, Holy God! Momentarily, I waited; I couldn’t believe that I was this bold…not bold, but desperate!

Next Week: The Interview

A Message from Germaine: From My Heart to Yours

Never has there been a time when prayer is needed more than now! Every believer can learn biblical principles of prayer that brings you into harmony and agreement with God and others.

My latest book, 365 Days to a Prayer-Filled Life, offers inspiration and hope to anyone who will take the time to read the biblically-based devotions. Within the covers of this powerful book are testimonies of answered prayer from people who have experienced the love of God in desperate times. In a time and age where many have reduced prayer and God Himself to the “Great Vending Machine in the Sky,” I emphasize the primary goal of prayer—unbroken fellowship with the eternal God of heaven and earth.

365 Days to a Prayer-Filled Life will encourage you to dig deeper and gain a stronger understanding of the purpose of prayer. Biblical themes such as joy, unity, spiritual gifts, overcoming fear, the Holy Spirit, walking in love, and the power of words will strengthen your prayer life. Each day’s entry includes a biblically informed message, a Scripture-based prayer, and a suggested Bible reading.

For anyone who wonders if God’s Word and prayer can make a difference, and for those who long for a closer walk with God, 365 Days to a Prayer-Filled Life offers daily assurance that God loves you and wants to impact every area of your life. Enjoy His presence as you take the day-by-day prayer journey toward God’s heart. His promises are true…and His mercies are new every morning.

To order click here.

A Vision Revisited

Part 2

by Germaine Copeland

Outside in the pre-dawn I lift my face to the eastern skies listening to the melodious song the birds are singing. Rain has cleansed the air and made puddles along the walkway to the prayer cottage. Just before entering I lift my head to the skies where I see patches of pink mixed with the rain clouds above the majestic oaks. The sun will come out. All is well!

People and situations that I would like to fix are committed to the Father’s safe keeping. He renews the strength of the weary; they mount up on wings as eagles. He heals the broken-hearted. He opens the eyes of His people and helps them resolve issues and feelings that have been buried since childhood. He delivers the addict and opens the eyes of the enabler. He heals broken relationships. God is God; there is no other!

In the prayer cottage I meditate on God’s goodness searching for the living water of creativity that flows from deep within. Later, my soul delights in the beauty of the weeping willow tree beside the glistening waters of Lake Oconee and the patterns on the lawn created by light streaming through the hardwoods announce peace. As I glory in the presence of God’s handiwork, I hear the words: “Finding more power than I’d ever dreamed; I’m learning to lean on Jesus.”

Back at the house I prepare breakfast and do the early morning chores before entering my office where I turn on the computer. Sitting down at my desk and waiting for the programs to download I sense the grief of yesteryear and realize that it is time to write the next installment of the transition that led me on a journey of deep soul-searching.

In those first years after selling Word Ministries’ home I no longer trusted myself to hear from God; I followed pathways others planned for me. Doubting my ability to even hear from God, I gave in and gave up. I silently asked if I had fulfilled my purpose in life. Is my time on planet Earth over? What will happen to my writing, which is viewed as classic in Christian circles? Do I need to dissolve Word Ministries? These and many other questions bombarded my thinking.

I’ll never forget the first day I walked into the new office that had been furnished for me. I stopped just inside the doorway looking at the massive, beautiful furniture staring back at me, and I was shocked that no one had bothered to ask what I needed! There were red flags everywhere I turned. Why was I even in this place where for the first time ever my integrity was questioned by those who had insisted on providing the office? Even before I entered the ministry I always endeavored to live truly, speak truly and deal truly.

Those close to me assured me that this was the right decision…that God was rewarding me for the years I had invested in ministry. Why wasn’t I excited; where was my grateful heart? Nights of anguish robbed me of sleep and rest. Every plan I purposed was shot down; it was suggested strongly that it was time for me to retire!

The ministry as I knew it no longer existed. One by one in my mind I folded up plans for allocating profits from the sale of the house in Roswell, Georgia and put them to rest. The vision was dead: the fund for prayer journeys, the house where we would have a book and gift shop, offices, a shipping department and a prayer/class room, the prayer garden where people could come for a time of meditation, refreshing and restoration. For the first time in more than forty years my dreams were dead, my spirit was broken and real despair moved in. “A healthy spirit conquers adversity, but what can you do when the spirit is crushed?” (Proverbs 18:14 The Message)

But God was at work! My faith was in a waiting pattern as I was learning to lean on the One who is all knowing. He was hardening me to difficulties, building character and releasing glimmers of hope. Just as my Father-God did not forget the vow I made as a teenager, He did not forget the vision.

I’m learning to lean on the grace of God that proved to be more than sufficient…Word Ministries continues and I continue to write.

Look for the upcoming Part 3: A Vision Resurrected

Copyright © Germaine Copeland 2011

This morning walking out to the prayer cottage with my blue mug of coffee in hand, I paused under the oak trees where the birds were singing a symphony of praise. Then to my delight I saw lethargic squirrels of yesterday chasing one another back and forth across the yard. Now and then one little fellow would pause and have to catch up.  I chuckled; even nature is grateful for the rain that fell yesterday.

Returning from the prayer cottage, I watch Canadian geese in formation winging their way up the river. Life is good! Taking my Bible and other reading material I move outside to sit on the deck facing the river. There I am content listening to the sounds of the morning and watching a boat go by when I remember the question that I couldn’t answer. “What was your vision, your plan when you sold your offices in Roswell Georgia? Where did the confusion come in?” 

Suddenly the vision I had dismissed comes into focus, and the pain of letting go returns.  The events of the past few years unfold; closing my eyes I attempt to shut off the memories; so much has happened — feelings buried alive resurface. We may bury our dreams, let go of our vision for many reasons, but when God gives the vision it never really goes away.

Many times over the past few years David, who is now Vice President of Word Ministries, asked, “Mom, please just tell me, what is your vision? Write it down.”  I froze when I attempted to answer; most of the time I simply smiled and walked away.  So many voices, so many emotional pulls… when did confusion cloud my vision, when did I disengage?  Sitting there frozen in time, God opened my eyes to the issues that dictated my decisions, gave me the grace to face myself and my motives. Even though the truth was painful, He desires truth in the inner parts. Only then can He teach wisdom in the inmost place. (Read Psalm 51)

One day  a few years ago when I met with the realtor who was selling the offices in Roswell, grief moved in and I released my power to make decisions. The changes were overwhelming! Why couldn’t I sort it all out? Finally…the dreaded time was upon me…the offices were sold; I signed the papers and handed the keys to the new owner. This was the place where so many had met with God, and the very walls were saturated with the peace of God. We prayed in the upper room where we experienced an open heaven; it was always different, always heavenly. Peace of God reigned in the conference room, class room, small kitchen and business offices…on the grounds.  (In retrospect the selling of the offices was on target; the aftermath is where the problems began; more about that later.)

A dream that was realized was stuffed back into the recesses of my being.  BUT GOD!

For the past few days this song written by John Stallings continues on the “repeat” mode.

Learning to lean, Learning to lean;  Learning to lean on Jesus…Finding more power than I’ve ever dreamed, I’m learning to lean on Jesus.

(To be continued)

Copyright © Germaine Copeland

President of Word Ministries:

Word Ministries Vision Statement:

Equipping the Body of Christ to be effective Intercessors and fruitful workers in the Vineyard. 

Copyright June 2011

Jesus said: You are the world’s light—a city on a hill, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father. (Matt 5:15-16 TLB)

The past two weeks we learned in the Bible Study at Life’s Simple Blessings that the mental walls of self-protection (strongholds) hide the light and sometimes no matter how we try to control our behavior our actions can not be called “good deeds.” Our behavior seems to be controlled by something that we do not understand. “Why did I act that way? Why did I say that? I didn’t mean it! If only I had kept quiet!  I pray, I rebuke the devil, I read my Bible, I quote the Bible. Why do I continue to repeat this unacceptable behavior?” 

Good news! We are not without hope; we are overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony!  This is the victory that overcomes the world; even our faith.  God has given us spiritual tools so we can tear down, crush and destroy the strongholds of rigidity, denial, emotional isolation and silence that have controlled our behavior..our deeds that others can see.

We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. 6 Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.  (2 Cor. 10 The Message Bible)

The writer of the book of Romans reveals to us that one of those weapons is the love of God that has been poured into our hearts (5:5). This same writer gives us a description of this kind of love in the thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians. It was years ago while reading this chapter that I made the decision to walk in love with everybody! Oh yes!! I love this chapter, don’t you?  It’s time to see how I am doing.

From The Living Bible I sit back and begin: I am very patient and kind, (“very?”) I am never jealous or envious, I am never boastful or proud, I am never haughty or selfish or rude, and I will no longer demand my own way. (“I think I can do this.”) I am through with being irritable or touchy, and I will not hold grudges. (“OK, time to wipe the slate clean.”) Why, I hardly even notice when others do me wrong. (“Really? How healthy can this be?”)  I am never glad about injustice, but I rejoice whenever truth wins out. (“Hum…now that’s pretty good. I like that.”) Then I read the hard stuff: If I love someone, I will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. I will always believe in him, always expect the best of him, and always stand my ground in defending him. (“Really, God this is the love Your Holy Spirit has poured into my heart?”)

What happens if I tear down the strongholds that have protected the pain of past abuses?  Last week we uncovered and defined other strongholds from Liberty Savard’s book Shattering Your Strongholds: unforgiveness, anger, disbelief, pride, distrust, doubt and control…and later for me personally: passive aggressive behavior and procrastination.  (“Oh me, there are other strongholds?”) 

As my eyes were opened I saw a major stronghold that has controlled my life (“thank You Holy Spirit!”). Passive aggressive behavior has not worked for me for many years. It interferes with healthy relationships and with my daily activities. This survival mechanism that worked for me as a child is now a prisoner. How do I dismantle these walls, overcome this and walk in freedom? 

A second weapon that’s been given to us is God’s Word, the sword of the Spirit!  Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (emancipation from bondage, freedom). And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit (2 Cor. 3:17-18 AMP).

Hallelujah! The Holy Spirit lives in me and I am assured that where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty, emancipation from the bondage of procrastination and passive aggressive behavior.  The choice is ours to walk in liberty or continue to live behind strongholds that interfere with our everyday-staying home-going to work lifestyle. We are a free people…we are light in a dark world who looks for faith, hope and love!!

Jesus said that you are light!  Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven. (Matt 15:14-16 The Message)

God Speaks Through Dreams

Donnis was born on May 2, 1915 in the farming town of Cairo, Georgia, famous for Roddenbery Syrup and later Roddenbery Pickles. Her life on the farm was happy and as she grew into her teenage years it was understood that she would marry the young man who lived on the neighboring farm. Her father called her the Sunshine of their home, and her siblings accepted her elevated position in the family. However, her life did not follow the journey she had mapped out…it took a turn after a young minister came to town.
Her Story as Told to Her Family

When I was a child I didn’t know what Christmas was about. It was a time when we enjoyed fruit and nuts; sometimes a doll for the girls and a sling shot or rifle for the boys. We would have a special meal and everyone got to drink a hot toddy. It was a special time for the family to enjoy being together, visiting with neighbors and playing games. Everyone sang while my older brother played the guitar and I played the organ or piano. I remember my childhood as happy. My parents lovingly nurtured me and I believed that I was special and desired to please them. When I met God I believed that He loved me unconditionally and my joy was boundless.

Believe it or not, at one time I was a teenager with dreams just as you have today. I loved living on the farm near Cairo in South Georgia. I can close my eyes even today and hear the mooing as cows come in out of the pastures. I can smell the overturned earth in the springtime, relish the sounds and smells of harvest when neighbors came to help bring in the bounty. I loved my parents and never wanted to do anything to disappoint them, but I also dreamed of moving to the big city in Florida someday. A young man who lived on the neighboring farm asked me to marry him. He was so good looking, and I was thrilled with the sparkling diamond that he had placed on my finger. I was the envy of every girl in our community.

One day Dave (not his real name) moved to a nearby state to find employment and buy a house for us. While he was away a minister came to preach in our village, and my pastor insisted that I meet him. When this itinerate preacher moved on, I never expected to hear from him again. But before long, I was receiving romantic letters, and over the next few months I enjoyed the attention of two men who were declaring their love for me. (Yes, your grandfather is a romantic!) I felt safe because both were in different states. There would never be a reason for them to meet each other. Besides, my mind was made up: I was marrying Dave…everyone had known that since we were both young children.

Well, one day the minister came back to preach a revival, and I was invited to be the guest pianist, and we were seeing each other every night. On one particular night after church we went to my parents’ home for refreshments. The night was bathed in moonlight and the sweet perfume of gardenias wafted across the porch where we sat gently swinging back and forth.

Of course, you know what happened; he asked me to marry him and I said yes. Shortly, we said goodnight. Humming a joyful tune I went inside. Then I felt a nudge on my left foot where I had hidden my engagement ring for safe keeping. It was as though that ring came to life and reality hit! I was engaged to two men! Preparing for bed, I begin praying, “O God, tell me what to do. I’ve known Dave all my life and Buck only a few months. I have been eagerly awaiting my marriage. Lord, he is buying me a house; Buck doesn’t even own a car. Show me what to do.”

It was early morning when in a pleasant dream I heard my mother’s voice saying, “Buck has called you. Now you call him.” Startled, I woke up and ran to the kitchen. “Mama, why did you say that? What did you mean?” Lo and behold, she hadn’t even called me to get up. Then I heard that sweet, strong, gentle voice that is so precious to me, “Donnis, remember, you prayed.”

That was the same clear Voice that spoke to me when I was a little girl playing house under the tall, slender pines of South Georgia. The firm assuring Voice always encouraged me to meet God. I never failed to answer that I would meet Him someday for myself and I would get to know Him. That day arrived and I was filled with joy and peace.

Then I realized—I had made my plans—plans that were exciting to me, but God directed my steps. During our years of ministry your Gramps and I walked through valleys and on mountain peaks, we experienced heartaches and joys, but I’ve never doubted, never questioned God about my decision. I didn’t marry because I was “in love.” I obeyed God and He rewarded my obedience. He developed in my heart a love that only He can give. God is Love and when you accept Him you are born of Love.

Learning to live together takes work; hard work…lots of give and take, understanding, commitment and prayer. I’ve lived all these years knowing that I am in the will of God because He spoke to me in a dream in answer to my prayer, and He taught me how to love your gramps. Love is not a feeling…although those warm fuzzy feelings are nice…love is a decision.

The Heavenly Father knew each of us before the foundation of the world, and He brought us together as husband and wife for His purposes. Jesus came as a little baby, but he grew up and walked this earth doing what He saw the Father do, and He spoke the words of the Father. The Father will speak to you; He will reveal your life partner, and you will fulfill your destiny. In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps (Proverbs 16:9). Truly, the Lord determined our steps, and we pray for you everyday that you will live for the Lord. Nothing pleases us more than to know that our children and grandchildren walk in TRUTH!

This beloved matriarch led us in her favorite Christmas Carol, “Joy to the World.” Gifts were opened, and before we knew it, it was time to say goodbye.

At the age of 81 Donnis Brock Griffin went home to be with the Lord. A few years later in 2002, Rev. A. H. “Buck” Griffin, 96 years old, joined her and the Heavenly Host in a never-ending celebration praising God throughout eternity. We proclaim, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

Copyright © Germaine Copeland 2009

(Excerpts from Prayers That Avail Much for Daily Living by Germaine Copeland, pages 100-101)

NOTE: The following article is by Lane Holland who works with us here at Word Ministries. She is an ordained minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and currently serves as pastor of a developing and dynamic church, Second Sight Ministries, which was planted by her senior pastor several years ago in Tucker, Georgia. Lane is also the founder of Caring in the Name of Christ Ministries, and her ministry has taken her throughout the United States and to many countries of the world. I encourage you to read and re-read allowing the Holy Spirit to confirm and reaffirm God’s redeeming power and hope in your personal life. Germaine Copeland 

THE MELODY OF THE FAITHFUL
By
Lane M. Holland, MSN, M.Div.
Prayer Director
Word Ministries, Inc

I grew up hearing the songs of the church. My background is a mix of hymns and the spontaneous songs of the Lord released during times of praise and worship. These songs have become a precious treasure that unearths itself during times of joy, testing’s and even questions regarding my walk with the Lord. The other day as I was contemplating the many situations I would have to address, I heard an old slow melodic song from my childhood that would usually be sung by one of the senior mother’s before she would stand to give her testimony on Sunday morning. The words are:

“Just another day that the Lord has kept me, just another day that the Lord has kept me. He has kept me from all evil, and my mind stayed on Jesus, Just another day that the Lord has kept me.”

Embodied in this melody is the assurance of the faithfulness of God. It may have been a personal interpretation of the scripture found in Isaiah 26:3:“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” The song assured both the singer and the hearers that the living Christ had been present throughout every moment of the day and this was the norm for a believer who placed their trust in Him. In spite of enemy attacks or negative thoughts that tried to assail her mind the giver of peace had been present to provide both safety and protection. The song could also carry the signature of Psalm 3:3: “But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.” I am safe in the arms of Jesus. God, always faithful, looks for us to grow into a state of trust or “resting in Christ” through every moment of life.How many times do we need to be reminded that “in him we live, move and have our being” (Acts 17:28a) and we can trust Christ to keep us safe. In these days we are faced with dire reports on almost a daily basis. Our privilege as believers is to continue to walk in the joy and peace of God. This is how our light shines into the darkness of people who are only hearing hopeless words. Our life can serve as a beacon to lead them into the light of Jesus.

The melody of the faithful is connected to a life of prayer and sustenance from the word of God. Who can not help but sing when each day starts or ends in the glorious presence of our King. “O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.”(Psalm 95: 1-3) The strength to face the day with whatever it may bring starts on our knees or from a time of listening through scripture for our direction and our hope.

Even when the days we face hold uncertainties, sorrow, grief, loss or pain there is still a melody for the faithful. Another hymn whose author may be unknown gives us a song for the tough days:

“When waves of affliction sweep over your soul and sunlight is hidden from view;

Just think of His goodness…Think of His goodness Think of His goodness to you!

As this year progresses we will probably be presented with opportunities to hesitate or waver from our hope found in the scriptures. Don’t forget the Word of God is full of psalms that were forged out of seemingly hopeless times. David, at Ziklag, encouraged himself (or strengthened himself with trust) in his God (I Samuel 30:4-7); Jeremiah recalls the mercies of God and regains his hope (Lamentations 3:21-27); and finally Paul and Silas released songs while imprisoned that led to their freedom (Acts 16:24-26).I encourage you to find your own melody or song that will help you celebrate the keeping presence of Christ and the sustaining protection of the Holy Spirit. Start with the scriptures and allow the Holy Spirit to help you set them to your own melody. Reach back in your memory and pull up and brush off a hymn or song that brought you through a personal storm. How will Psalm 23 or 91 sound when you set it to your own melody? Sing on, sing on!

Copyright © Lane Holland 2009