Jesus: Our One True Hope
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During his later years Billy Graham was asked if he had any regrets in life. In response, he said, “I would study more. I would pray more. I would travel less, and I would take less speaking engagements. I took too many of them in too many places around the world. If I had it to do all over again, I would spend more time in meditation and prayer and just telling the Lord how much I adore him and how much I’m looking forward to the time we’re going to spend together in eternity.”
Billy Graham's statement is compelling. It should cause us all to pause and reflect. We hope it will prompt us to follow his advice. May we consistently pray more and tell the Lord how much we love Him.
Perhaps you feel discouraged. Our country's division, derision, and misdirection really cause many hearts to grieve for America. Yes, it truly grieves our hearts. We hear from many Americans who feel discouraged and depressed. We certainly understand why. But there is hope!
Be encouraged: God can turn this country around. "In God We Trust" remains a must -no matter how we feel. When America was founded, it seemed impossible. Yet God opened doors and guided men (in spite of themselves) to provide a safe haven. We must remember that, with God, all things are possible!
Yet we didn't say that. Jesus did: "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'"(Matt.19:26)
Supporting Godly people who run for office is good. But we cannot allow ourselves to put faith in a candidate or cause more than in Christ.
Instead of placing your faith in a candidate, Congress, group, or leader, choose to trust in Jesus today. When you take your burdens to Him, He carries them, He carries you, and He gives you what it takes to emerge victorious. Keep your trust in Jesus.
We challenge you to join us in earnest prayer for America. Pray that our nation will turn back to our Lord, Jesus Christ. Concurrently, continue to vote and be active in civics. Prayer coupled with action are important for our future. Join our prayer site at www.PrayingPals.org. And pray from your heart. This month's featured article by Dr. Adrian Rogers is called How to Pray for America. It is our hope that this article will spur you on to sincerely pray for the USA. Never underestimate the power of prayer. The Lord listens to His people. Keep praying and keep asking Him for help, mercy, and redemption for America. Pray and persevere because Jesus is near...whether you feel it or not. He said, "I am with you always..." That includes now, fellow Christian Americans. That includes now. Let's pray: "Heavenly Father, In God we still trust,Carrie and Stacie Sisters and Co-Founders of Unite the USA
Billy Graham's statement is compelling. It should cause us all to pause and reflect. We hope it will prompt us to follow his advice. May we consistently pray more and tell the Lord how much we love Him.
Perhaps you feel discouraged. Our country's division, derision, and misdirection really cause many hearts to grieve for America. Yes, it truly grieves our hearts. We hear from many Americans who feel discouraged and depressed. We certainly understand why. But there is hope!
Be encouraged: God can turn this country around. "In God We Trust" remains a must -no matter how we feel. When America was founded, it seemed impossible. Yet God opened doors and guided men (in spite of themselves) to provide a safe haven. We must remember that, with God, all things are possible!
Yet we didn't say that. Jesus did: "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'"(Matt.19:26)
Supporting Godly people who run for office is good. But we cannot allow ourselves to put faith in a candidate or cause more than in Christ.
Instead of placing your faith in a candidate, Congress, group, or leader, choose to trust in Jesus today. When you take your burdens to Him, He carries them, He carries you, and He gives you what it takes to emerge victorious. Keep your trust in Jesus.
We challenge you to join us in earnest prayer for America. Pray that our nation will turn back to our Lord, Jesus Christ. Concurrently, continue to vote and be active in civics. Prayer coupled with action are important for our future. Join our prayer site at www.PrayingPals.org. And pray from your heart. This month's featured article by Dr. Adrian Rogers is called How to Pray for America. It is our hope that this article will spur you on to sincerely pray for the USA. Never underestimate the power of prayer. The Lord listens to His people. Keep praying and keep asking Him for help, mercy, and redemption for America. Pray and persevere because Jesus is near...whether you feel it or not. He said, "I am with you always..." That includes now, fellow Christian Americans. That includes now. Let's pray: "Heavenly Father, In God we still trust,Carrie and Stacie Sisters and Co-Founders of Unite the USA
About Dr. Adrian Rogers
Known for his evangelistic zeal and uncompromising commitment to the Word of God, Adrian Rogers was one of the greatest preachers, respected Bible teachers, and Christian leaders of our time. For over fifty years, he consistently presented the Good News of Jesus Christ with strong conviction, compassion, and integrity.
He was a devoted family man - husband to his childhood sweetheart Joyce, father to four children, grandfather to nine, and great-grandfather to one. Of all his accomplishments, Dr. Rogers often said his greatest joy centered in his relationship to Jesus Christ, his wife and family, and the church he pastored. The recipient of many honors and awards, the trophy he treasured most was one presented to him by his children one Father's Day in which he was proclaimed The World's Greatest Dad.
Under his pastoral leadership, Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, grew from 9,000 members in 1972 to more than 29,000 at his retirement in 2005. And Adrian Rogers was a leader in his denomination, serving three terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.
God's blessing on Dr. Rogers' ministry became even more evident with the birth of Love Worth Finding Ministries in 1987. Dr. Rogers was the founder and Bible teacher of Love Worth Finding, an internationally syndicated television and radio ministry. The sun never sets on this ministry which is broadcast on radio, television, and the Internet. You can find LWF declaring the Gospel and changing lives in more than 150 countries around the world. In 2003, Dr. Rogers was honored to be inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame by the National Religious Broadcasters.
Dr. Rogers was active in national leadership and personally consulted and prayed with five presidents of the United States. He visited and had the privilege of sharing the platform with President George W. Bush in the White House on the National Day of Prayer for America. Dr. Rogers preached overseas crusades in Taiwan, South Korea, Israel, Russia, Romania, and in Central and South America.
In November 2005, God called Adrian Rogers home. Since that time, tributes have poured in testifying of his worldwide impact. For more information, visit www.adrianrogers.org.
Under his pastoral leadership, Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, grew from 9,000 members in 1972 to more than 29,000 at his retirement in 2005. And Adrian Rogers was a leader in his denomination, serving three terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.
God's blessing on Dr. Rogers' ministry became even more evident with the birth of Love Worth Finding Ministries in 1987. Dr. Rogers was the founder and Bible teacher of Love Worth Finding, an internationally syndicated television and radio ministry. The sun never sets on this ministry which is broadcast on radio, television, and the Internet. You can find LWF declaring the Gospel and changing lives in more than 150 countries around the world. In 2003, Dr. Rogers was honored to be inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame by the National Religious Broadcasters.
Dr. Rogers was active in national leadership and personally consulted and prayed with five presidents of the United States. He visited and had the privilege of sharing the platform with President George W. Bush in the White House on the National Day of Prayer for America. Dr. Rogers preached overseas crusades in Taiwan, South Korea, Israel, Russia, Romania, and in Central and South America.
In November 2005, God called Adrian Rogers home. Since that time, tributes have poured in testifying of his worldwide impact. For more information, visit www.adrianrogers.org.
A Prayer for America by Billy Graham
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Our Father and Our God,
We praise You for Your goodness to our nation, giving us blessings far beyond what we deserve.
Yet we know all is not right with America. We deeply need a moral and spiritual renewal to help us meet the many problems we face.
Convict us of sin. Help us to turn to You in repentance and faith. Set our feet on the path of Your righteousness and peace.
We pray today for our nation’s leaders. Give them the wisdom to know what is right, and the courage to do it.
You have said, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” May this be a new era for America, as we humble ourselves and acknowledge You alone as our Savior and Lord.
This we pray in Your holy name, Amen.
- Billy Graham
We praise You for Your goodness to our nation, giving us blessings far beyond what we deserve.
Yet we know all is not right with America. We deeply need a moral and spiritual renewal to help us meet the many problems we face.
Convict us of sin. Help us to turn to You in repentance and faith. Set our feet on the path of Your righteousness and peace.
We pray today for our nation’s leaders. Give them the wisdom to know what is right, and the courage to do it.
You have said, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” May this be a new era for America, as we humble ourselves and acknowledge You alone as our Savior and Lord.
This we pray in Your holy name, Amen.
- Billy Graham
Featured Quote
Featured Bible Verse
Unite the USA's
Featured Veteran of the Month: Shizuya Hayashi
Shizuya Hayashi, WWII Congressional Medal of Honor recipient
How to Know Jesus
Question: How do Stacie and Carrie know they'll go to Heaven?
Answer: It's not because of what they've done or who they are. It's because Jesus lives in them. Anything good in them is because of Jesus in them. They know God and His love in a personal way. They've followed what God said in His book: the Bible. They invited Jesus to be their Savior and Lord. You, too, can know God. Yes, He really does love you!
Take His Word for it:
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. -John 3:16 (NKJV)For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard.-Rom. 3:23 (NLV)For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us... -Rom. 3:25 (NLV)That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. -Rom. 10:9 (NKJV)
Understand that God loves you with infinite love! God is good, holy and righteous and we fall short of His perfection. So we need a Mediator, Jesus, who lovingly took our punishment for all our mistakes.
Believe that Jesus is God's Son that took your punishment. He took your punishment for all your sins (anti-God ways) and that He rose from the dead for you, __________.
Repent (turn away from) your sins (anti-God ways) and submit yourself to Him as your Lord.
Receive Jesus as your personal Savior and Lord. Talk to God and give your life to Jesus.
Pray from your heart. If it helps, pray something like this:
God, I understand now...You sent Jesus to share Your love and make it possible for me to be Yours. Please forgive me for all my sins. Jesus, I believe you took my punishment on the cross and that you rose from the dead for me personally. I turn away from doing things "my way" and ask that You rule my life, Jesus. I receive You as my Savior and Lord. I put my trust in You not in the things I do. I love You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Welcome into God's family! You are now His! Get connected with a loving, Bible-based church, enjoy the supreme joy of being baptized, and savor the Savior's love forever! Read the Bible. (If you don't have one, start reading the Gospel of John by clicking here.)
He'll never leave you. He'll never die. He'll never change. He loves you! Enjoy loving and obeying Jesus and experiencing His love forever and ever! If you'd like prayer or more information, e-mail us anytime.
Answer: It's not because of what they've done or who they are. It's because Jesus lives in them. Anything good in them is because of Jesus in them. They know God and His love in a personal way. They've followed what God said in His book: the Bible. They invited Jesus to be their Savior and Lord. You, too, can know God. Yes, He really does love you!
Take His Word for it:
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. -John 3:16 (NKJV)For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard.-Rom. 3:23 (NLV)For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us... -Rom. 3:25 (NLV)That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. -Rom. 10:9 (NKJV)
Understand that God loves you with infinite love! God is good, holy and righteous and we fall short of His perfection. So we need a Mediator, Jesus, who lovingly took our punishment for all our mistakes.
Believe that Jesus is God's Son that took your punishment. He took your punishment for all your sins (anti-God ways) and that He rose from the dead for you, __________.
Repent (turn away from) your sins (anti-God ways) and submit yourself to Him as your Lord.
Receive Jesus as your personal Savior and Lord. Talk to God and give your life to Jesus.
Pray from your heart. If it helps, pray something like this:
God, I understand now...You sent Jesus to share Your love and make it possible for me to be Yours. Please forgive me for all my sins. Jesus, I believe you took my punishment on the cross and that you rose from the dead for me personally. I turn away from doing things "my way" and ask that You rule my life, Jesus. I receive You as my Savior and Lord. I put my trust in You not in the things I do. I love You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Welcome into God's family! You are now His! Get connected with a loving, Bible-based church, enjoy the supreme joy of being baptized, and savor the Savior's love forever! Read the Bible. (If you don't have one, start reading the Gospel of John by clicking here.)
He'll never leave you. He'll never die. He'll never change. He loves you! Enjoy loving and obeying Jesus and experiencing His love forever and ever! If you'd like prayer or more information, e-mail us anytime.
How to Pray for America
By Dr. Adrian Rogers www.lwf.org
We hear continually that we must pray for our nation. But what is our first step? Revival prayer. Only prayer can hold back the floodtide of sin and God's judgment upon us. Only prayer and our serious commitment will release the cleansing, healing hand of God. Have we crossed a deadline in America? Is it too late for our nation? No, absolutely not. God is righteous and holy. But He is also merciful. And He would rather show mercy than judgment. He wants to forgive. He is willing to change His mind (see Exodus 32:14 and Psalm 106:23).
God's Word gives us historical accounts of His mercy, deliverance, and revival among His people. One good example that applies to us today is when Israel had been taken captive by the Babylonians (Babylon is the ancient name for Iraq). In Daniel 9 we have a prayer that Daniel offered to God to deliver the Israelites from their captivity. There is perhaps no better model for how to pray in dire circumstances - such as those we face today - than Daniel's prayer.
Pray with Serious Concentration
Daniel said, "And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes" (Daniel 9:3). To "set our face" refers to the faith and fervency of our prayers. We are to sincerely pray with every inch of our being as individuals and as the church as a whole. But not just any prayer. How serious is "serious"? It must be prayer and fasting.
What is fasting?
Fasting is not merely going without food. It is not dieting or cutting down on our eating for health reasons, though we ought to do that. Fasting is going without food, water, or other pleasures for a spiritual purpose.
Why do we fast?
We are to fast with the correct motivation...not polishing our spiritual "image" so we look good and "holy," but as unto the Lord. Matthew 6:17-18 says, "But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."
What can fasting do?
Fasting will strengthen your prayer life and turn you to God. When we fast we give Heaven notice that we are earnest about seeking God with all of our heart! Fasting also brings faith into focus and holds back God's judgment.
How should we fast?
First of all, you need to pray about it. Then prayerfully choose your fast. As mentioned earlier, fasting can be going without food, but it can also be going without water or other pleasures for a spiritual purpose. If you're sick, on medication, or pregnant, then talk to your doctor first. There is no legalism in fasting. For some, a fast can be taking juices or clear liquids - the purpose is to give your full attention to prayer and to the issue you are laying before God. And with each twinge of hunger, you are reminded all the more of your purpose - you are reminded to pray. It also frees up more time in your day; time you'd have spent eating will now be spent in focused prayer.
If you have never fasted, a one-day fast is a good beginning. And choose a day when your activities are light, so you can give your time to prayer. Plan ahead of time that you're going to fast.
Finally, remember to fast as instructed in God's Word; that is, don't boast or brag about what you're doing or for what purpose.
Pray with Steadfast Confidence
The basis of your prayer is the greatness and mercy of God (see Daniel 9:4,9). Daniel knew that our God is One for whom we must have reverential fear and awe, but he also knew that our great God is full of mercy. The psalmist said, "But as for me, I will come into Thy house in the multitude of Thy mercy: and in Thy fear will I worship toward Thy holy temple" (Psalm 5:7).
The writer of Hebrews exhorts, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). In Jesus Christ, "we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him." (Ephesians 3:12)
Pray with Sincere Confession
Just as sin brings judgment, confession brings forgiveness. Daniel confessed his personal sin and the sin of his nation. (Daniel 9:4-7,20)
If we want to see this nation turn toward God, it is vital that each person reading this go individually before God and confess personal sin. Thank God, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). There is no sin - none - that is beyond God's forgiveness. Rape. Murder. Pillage. Abortion. Sodomy. Every sin is covered under the blood of Jesus.
Daniel also prayed for God to forgive the sin of the nation collectively. I call this "Identification Repentance." Daniel humbly identified himself with his nation and asked God to have mercy, even though Daniel himself had lived a godly life. You can identify with your nation and do this as well, because the wicked people of this nation are not going to pray for themselves.
We need to confess our pride and materialism, neglect of the poor, our racism, sexual immorality, the merciless killing of the unborn, and the godless humanism that has invaded and pervaded our public schools.
We must pray as our Savior did as He hung on the cross: "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). Then pray with spiritual concern that they will seek His forgiveness for themselves.
Pray with Spiritual Concern
What were Daniel's concerns when he prayed? - The removal of guilt (Daniel 9:16) - The restoration of glory (Daniel 9:17-19)
We need to pray for God to cleanse us and remove our guilt. Without this, we cannot expect God to bring revival. How I praise Him that with a multitude of sins, He has a multitude of mercy!
Oh, that every Christian would have a burning, yearning heart for the glory of God! I want to see God's glory spread over this land. I want to see God do something that cannot be explained by the television pundits, news anchors and newspaper journalists. I want something that cannot be explained by technology, personality, propaganda or persuasion.
It is prayer time in America. I want to ask you, are you on praying ground? James 5:16 says: "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Prayer is our greatest resource and God is our only true hope. Only prayer can hold back sin and judgment and release the cleansing, healing hand of God. Will you pray?
We hear continually that we must pray for our nation. But what is our first step? Revival prayer. Only prayer can hold back the floodtide of sin and God's judgment upon us. Only prayer and our serious commitment will release the cleansing, healing hand of God. Have we crossed a deadline in America? Is it too late for our nation? No, absolutely not. God is righteous and holy. But He is also merciful. And He would rather show mercy than judgment. He wants to forgive. He is willing to change His mind (see Exodus 32:14 and Psalm 106:23).
God's Word gives us historical accounts of His mercy, deliverance, and revival among His people. One good example that applies to us today is when Israel had been taken captive by the Babylonians (Babylon is the ancient name for Iraq). In Daniel 9 we have a prayer that Daniel offered to God to deliver the Israelites from their captivity. There is perhaps no better model for how to pray in dire circumstances - such as those we face today - than Daniel's prayer.
Pray with Serious Concentration
Daniel said, "And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes" (Daniel 9:3). To "set our face" refers to the faith and fervency of our prayers. We are to sincerely pray with every inch of our being as individuals and as the church as a whole. But not just any prayer. How serious is "serious"? It must be prayer and fasting.
What is fasting?
Fasting is not merely going without food. It is not dieting or cutting down on our eating for health reasons, though we ought to do that. Fasting is going without food, water, or other pleasures for a spiritual purpose.
Why do we fast?
We are to fast with the correct motivation...not polishing our spiritual "image" so we look good and "holy," but as unto the Lord. Matthew 6:17-18 says, "But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly."
What can fasting do?
Fasting will strengthen your prayer life and turn you to God. When we fast we give Heaven notice that we are earnest about seeking God with all of our heart! Fasting also brings faith into focus and holds back God's judgment.
How should we fast?
First of all, you need to pray about it. Then prayerfully choose your fast. As mentioned earlier, fasting can be going without food, but it can also be going without water or other pleasures for a spiritual purpose. If you're sick, on medication, or pregnant, then talk to your doctor first. There is no legalism in fasting. For some, a fast can be taking juices or clear liquids - the purpose is to give your full attention to prayer and to the issue you are laying before God. And with each twinge of hunger, you are reminded all the more of your purpose - you are reminded to pray. It also frees up more time in your day; time you'd have spent eating will now be spent in focused prayer.
If you have never fasted, a one-day fast is a good beginning. And choose a day when your activities are light, so you can give your time to prayer. Plan ahead of time that you're going to fast.
Finally, remember to fast as instructed in God's Word; that is, don't boast or brag about what you're doing or for what purpose.
Pray with Steadfast Confidence
The basis of your prayer is the greatness and mercy of God (see Daniel 9:4,9). Daniel knew that our God is One for whom we must have reverential fear and awe, but he also knew that our great God is full of mercy. The psalmist said, "But as for me, I will come into Thy house in the multitude of Thy mercy: and in Thy fear will I worship toward Thy holy temple" (Psalm 5:7).
The writer of Hebrews exhorts, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16). In Jesus Christ, "we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him." (Ephesians 3:12)
Pray with Sincere Confession
Just as sin brings judgment, confession brings forgiveness. Daniel confessed his personal sin and the sin of his nation. (Daniel 9:4-7,20)
If we want to see this nation turn toward God, it is vital that each person reading this go individually before God and confess personal sin. Thank God, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). There is no sin - none - that is beyond God's forgiveness. Rape. Murder. Pillage. Abortion. Sodomy. Every sin is covered under the blood of Jesus.
Daniel also prayed for God to forgive the sin of the nation collectively. I call this "Identification Repentance." Daniel humbly identified himself with his nation and asked God to have mercy, even though Daniel himself had lived a godly life. You can identify with your nation and do this as well, because the wicked people of this nation are not going to pray for themselves.
We need to confess our pride and materialism, neglect of the poor, our racism, sexual immorality, the merciless killing of the unborn, and the godless humanism that has invaded and pervaded our public schools.
We must pray as our Savior did as He hung on the cross: "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). Then pray with spiritual concern that they will seek His forgiveness for themselves.
Pray with Spiritual Concern
What were Daniel's concerns when he prayed? - The removal of guilt (Daniel 9:16) - The restoration of glory (Daniel 9:17-19)
We need to pray for God to cleanse us and remove our guilt. Without this, we cannot expect God to bring revival. How I praise Him that with a multitude of sins, He has a multitude of mercy!
Oh, that every Christian would have a burning, yearning heart for the glory of God! I want to see God's glory spread over this land. I want to see God do something that cannot be explained by the television pundits, news anchors and newspaper journalists. I want something that cannot be explained by technology, personality, propaganda or persuasion.
It is prayer time in America. I want to ask you, are you on praying ground? James 5:16 says: "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Prayer is our greatest resource and God is our only true hope. Only prayer can hold back sin and judgment and release the cleansing, healing hand of God. Will you pray?