1. No category

1
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Introduction
Because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross, we have been blessed. When he died on that cross
for us, he did the impossible and mended the relationship between us and God. We went from God’s
enemies to being his people. Because of this momentous act of Jesus, we know that God will look after
us, both in this life and in the life to come. We look forward to the ultimate blessing we have been
promised – life in the new creation where all the evil of this life has been destroyed and we get
unhindered access to God. That’s a blessing that I can get behind!
So when we’re talking about how God has blessed us, what we’re saying is that God has accepted us
and has welcomed us into a relationship with him. And that he has expressed that relationship by
giving us good things. It doesn’t mean that everything will always be perfect in this life, but we know
that we are on God’s side. At the end of days, we know where we will be standing.
This 40-day journey will invite you into a more intimate space with God. Seven (7) times each day we
will pause from our schedules and itineraries, whether we are at home, work, travel, or at play, and
consider and ponder God’s plan for us for the week. Set your alarms, phones, reminders and,
calendars for the seven (7) times that will work for you during this 40-day journey.
We have six (6) themes that will carry us for these 40 days. These things will bring spiritual, emotional,
mental, and practical renewal in our lives. With fresh eyes, we will see a change in ourselves, our faith,
our righteous living, our finances, our families, our churches, and in our praise. Yes, we seek the
Blessing of God, but more importantly, we will focus on God! Indeed, all blessings come from Him!
Each day will have the following components:
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
The focus for this 40 Day Journey will primarily be prayer. Although we will not be inviting a portion of
fasting during this journey, if you are led to do so, we will invite God’s Blessing on your sacrifice.
We are in this together. If we can assist with anything, please let us know. We are anticipating that
God will honor our commitment and do more than we even ask or think.
Pastor Charles Jenkins
http://fellowshipchicago.com/40Days/
2
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Week #1: BLESSING FROM FAITH
Day #1
Prayer Time #1 Declaration / Confession:
I Believe God – I Trust God – With All of My Heart, My Mind, and My Soul!
Prayer Time #2 Scripture: (Hebrews 11:6 (NASB)
And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and
that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Am I All In With My Faith? If not, why not?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
The writer of Hebrews opens this famous chapter with what has been called the basic definition of
faith. It is a definition that many of us can repeat from memory. Faith is the substance of things hoped
for, the evidence of things not seen. We are told in this chapter that it is by faith the worlds were
framed through the Word of God. He then tells us about Abel and how it was by faith that his sacrifice
was accepted.
The author then tells us about a little known person, Enoch. We are told here and in Genesis 5:18-24
that Enoch was translated by God, meaning that he did not experience death. God just took him. We
don’t know much about Enoch from the traditional Bible. However, we are told in Heb 11:5 that Enoch
pleased God.
The author pauses from his list of Old Testament saints to give us a sidebar, which is our scripture
promise for today. We are told that without faith, it is impossible to please God. What a strange thing
to please God with. One would think that obedience, sacrifice, prayer, or a host of others things would
rank up before faith.
When you look at the list of heroes listed in Hebrews chapter 11, it becomes a little clearer. These men
and women did not live perfect lives, but they did display extraordinary faith. It is this faith that caused
them to receive honorable mention here.
How do we exercise pleasing faith? We are told that we must believe that God is faithful and that He is
a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Are you diligently seeking God? If you are, have faith that
your efforts will be rewarded greatly. (Author: Vanessa Collins)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
3
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Genesis 22: 1-19, NLT)
Some time later, God tested Abraham’s faith. “Abraham!” God called.
“Yes,” he replied. “Here I am.”
2
“Take your son, your only son—yes, Isaac, whom you love so much—and go to the land of Moriah. Go
and sacrifice him as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will show you.”
3
The next morning Abraham got up early. He saddled his donkey and took two of his servants with
him, along with his son, Isaac. Then he chopped wood for a fire for a burnt offering and set out for the
place God had told him about. 4 On the third day of their journey, Abraham looked up and saw the
place in the distance. 5 “Stay here with the donkey,” Abraham told the servants. “The boy and I will
travel a little farther. We will worship there, and then we will come right back.”
6
So Abraham placed the wood for the burnt offering on Isaac’s shoulders, while he himself carried the
fire and the knife. As the two of them walked on together, 7 Isaac turned to Abraham and said,
“Father?”
“Yes, my son?” Abraham replied.
“We have the fire and the wood,” the boy said, “but where is the sheep for the burnt offering?”
8
“God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering, my son,” Abraham answered. And they both walked
on together.
9
When they arrived at the place where God had told him to go, Abraham built an altar and arranged
the wood on it. Then he tied his son, Isaac, and laid him on the altar on top of the wood. 10 And
Abraham picked up the knife to kill his son as a sacrifice. 11 At that moment the angel of the LORD called
to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!”
“Yes,” Abraham replied. “Here I am!”
12
“Don’t lay a hand on the boy!” the angel said. “Do not hurt him in any way, for now I know that you
truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son.”
13
Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a thicket. So he took the ram and
sacrificed it as a burnt offering in place of his son.14 Abraham named the place Yahweh-Yireh (which
means “the LORD will provide”). To this day, people still use that name as a proverb: “On the mountain
of the LORD it will be provided.”
15
Then the angel of the LORD called again to Abraham from heaven. 16 “This is what the LORD says:
Because you have obeyed me and have not withheld even your son, your only son, I swear by my own
name that 17 I will certainly bless you. I will multiply your descendants[a] beyond number, like the stars
in the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your descendants will conquer the cities of their
enemies. 18 And through your descendants all the nations of the earth will be blessed—all because you
have obeyed me.”
19
Then they returned to the servants and traveled back to Beersheba, where Abraham continued to
live.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
4
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #2
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
According to 2 Corinthians 5: 17, I Live and Walk By Faith, Not By Sight Nor By My Feelings.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (1 Peter 1: 6-7, 13-25, NLT)
6
So be truly glad.[a] There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little
while. 7 These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies
gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong
through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is
revealed to the whole world.
13
So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation
that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 14 So you must live as God’s obedient
children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any
better then. 15 But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. 16 For
the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am holy.”[a]
17
And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward
you according to what you do. So you must live in reverent fear of him during your time here as
“temporary residents.” 18 For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you
inherited from your ancestors. And it was not paid with mere gold or silver, which lose their value. 19 It
was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. 20 God chose him as your ransom
long before the world began, but now in these last days he has been revealed for your sake.
21
Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God
because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory.
22
You were cleansed from your sins when you obeyed the truth, so now you must show sincere love to
each other as brothers and sisters.[b] Love each other deeply with all your heart.[c]
23
For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever
because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.24 As the Scriptures say,
“People are like grass;
their beauty is like a flower in the field.
The grass withers and the flower fades.
25
But the word of the Lord remains forever.”[d]
And that word is the Good News that was preached to you.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
In What Ways Are You Tempted To Dismiss Your Faith Because of What's Happening Around You, That
You Physically See?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
When butterflies hatch at Frederik Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids, Michigan, they do so in an indoor
tropical paradise perfectly suited to meet their every need. The temperature is perfect. The humidity is
5
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
perfect. The food is a perfect balance of calories and nutrition to keep them healthy. No need to go
elsewhere. Yet some butterflies see the bright blue sky outside the conservatory and spend their days
fluttering near the glass ceiling far away from the plentiful food supply.
I want to say to those butterflies, “Don’t you know everything you need is inside? The outside is cold
and harsh, and you will die within minutes if you get what you are longing to have.”
I wonder if that is the message God has for me. So I ask myself, Do I look longingly at things that would
harm me? Do I use my energy to gain what I don’t need and shouldn’t have? Do I ignore God’s plentiful
provision because I imagine that something just beyond my reach is better? Do I spend my time on the
fringes of faith?
God supplies all our needs from His riches (Phil. 4:19). So instead of striving for what we don’t have,
may we open our hearts to gratefully receive everything we’ve already been given by Him. Author:
Julie Ackerman
All that I want is in Jesus;
He satisfies, joy He supplies;
Life would be worthless without Him,
All things in Jesus I find. —Loes
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Philippians 4: 10 -20, NLT)
10
How I praise the Lord that you are concerned about me again. I know you have always been
concerned for me, but you didn’t have the chance to help me. 11 Not that I was ever in need, for I have
learned how to be content with whatever I have. 12 I know how to live on almost nothing or with
everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or
empty, with plenty or little. 13 For I can do everything through Christ,[a] who gives me strength. 14 Even
so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty.
15
As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you
the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. 16 Even when I was in
Thessalonica you sent help more than once. 17 I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I
want you to receive a reward for your kindness.
18
At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me with
Epaphroditus. They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. 19 And this
same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been
given to us in Christ Jesus.
20
Now all glory to God our Father forever and ever! Amen.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
6
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #3
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Gives Me Strength! (Philippians 4: 13)
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (1 Corinthians 15:57, NLT)
Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What Have You Written Off As Impossible That God May Want You To Resurrect Your Faith On? |
Review your annual goals - are they big enough? Are they good goals or God goals?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Impossible Situations
“Woman, behold your son!” Then He said to th e disciple, “Behold your mother!””
~ John 19:26-27
Take courage! Jesus did more with His hands tied than anyone else on earth! When Pilate sent Jesus to
Herod, Herod’s soldiers tied His hands behind His back so they could better buffet Him. Then they sent
Him back to Pilate. “That very day Pilate and Herod became friends with each other, for before that
they had been at enmity” (Luke 23:12). Jesus had an amazing effect on people, even when they hated
Him. He even helped people get over their quarrels when His hands were tied!
The centurion untied Jesus’ hands, only to nail them firmly in place upon the cross! But think what
Jesus did when His hands were nailed into place – the centurion came to Christ! When Jesus’ hands
were tied, He never stopped helping people! Seeing His mother standing at the foot of the cross
watching Him die, and seeing His best earthly friend supporting her, He gave His mother into John’s
hands. He could no longer take care of Mary; His hands were tied. But He still had a mind alert enough
to plan for those He loved, and even through His desperate thirst, He could still speak words of
encouragement. Jesus, choosing to die, could not do much for Mary and John, but He did what He
could – and it was enough.
Are your hands tied? Are you imagining yourself helplessly restricted? Think about Jesus. Ask Him for a
way around the dilemma. He’ll show you! He’ll tell you, “It’s amazing what you can do when your
hands are tied!” (Author: Jill Briscoe)
Lord, thank You for all Your loving care fo r me. Your great power and concern for all of us
comes through in such small details of Your Word. Help me look for ways I can do Your
work in my life, even when I feel like my ‘hands are tied.’ Show me how to bring true help
and relief into the lives of those around me. Amen.
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
7
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Jeremiah 1: 4-10, NLT)
4
The LORD gave me this message:
5
“I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb.
Before you were born I set you apart
and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.”
6
“O Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!”
7
The LORD replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I
tell you. 8 And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have
spoken!” 9 Then the LORD reached out and touched my mouth and said,
“Look, I have put my words in your mouth!
10
Today I appoint you to stand up
against nations and kingdoms.
Some you must uproot and tear down,
destroy and overthrow.
Others you must build up
and plant.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
8
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #4:
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Today, and beyond, I am committed to growing my faith by hearing God’s Word and God’s Voice!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Romans 10: 17, NLT)
"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Is God the loudest voice in your ears? If not, how can you turn His volume up and turn other voices
down?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Rather than a brief devotional, today intentionally listen to a sermon that will charge your faith, Review
a set of sermon notes that you already have and see how God may want to speak to you in a fresh way.
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (1 Samuel 3: 1-11, NLT)
Meanwhile, the boy Samuel served the LORD by assisting Eli. Now in those days messages from
the LORD were very rare, and visions were quite uncommon.
2
One night Eli, who was almost blind by now, had gone to bed. 3 The lamp of God had not yet gone out,
and Samuel was sleeping in the Tabernacle[a] near the Ark of God. 4 Suddenly the LORD called out,
“Samuel!”
5
“Yes?” Samuel replied. “What is it?” He got up and ran to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call me?”
“I didn’t call you,” Eli replied. “Go back to bed.” So he did.
6
Then the LORD called out again, “Samuel!”
Again Samuel got up and went to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call me?”
“I didn’t call you, my son,” Eli said. “Go back to bed.”
7
Samuel did not yet know the LORD because he had never had a message from the LORD before. 8 So
the LORD called a third time, and once more Samuel got up and went to Eli. “Here I am. Did you call
me?”
Then Eli realized it was the LORD who was calling the boy. 9 So he said to Samuel, “Go and lie down
again, and if someone calls again, say, ‘Speak, LORD, your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went back to
bed.
10
And the LORD came and called as before, “Samuel! Samuel!”
And Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
9
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #5
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Father, Thank You That My Needs Will Never Exceed Your Supply!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Ephesians. 3: 20, NKJV)
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the
power that works in us,
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
In What Ways Have You Been Praying Small Prayers? How can you pray BIG, BOLD prayers for yourself,
your family, and co-workers?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Have you ever experienced a “sun stand still” moment? Have you ever seen a display of incredible faith
backed by action in your life or someone else’s? Joshua’s story is powerful. He asked God to make the
sun and moon stand still. There was no doubt in Joshua’s request. He was sure of what he was asking
for, knowing it would happen before he ever uttered the words. God answered and caused the sun to
stand still.
How would our prayers and supplications be different if we fully acknowledged that God, the same
God who caused the gigantic ball of fire in the sky to halt, is still alive and in charge today? He hasn’t
changed, and He never will change. He’s still just as capable of awesome miracles and movements as
He was in Bible times. But how convinced of that truth are we, really? (Source: Newspring Church,
South Carolina)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Joshua 10: 1-15, NLT)
Now it came to pass when Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem heard how Joshua had taken Ai and had
utterly destroyed it—as he had done to Jericho and its king, so he had done to Ai and its king—and
how the inhabitants of Gibeon had made peace with Israel and were among them, 2 that they feared
greatly, because Gibeon was a great city, like one of the royal cities, and because it was greater than
Ai, and all its men were mighty. 3 Therefore Adoni-Zedek king of Jerusalem sent to Hoham king of
Hebron, Piram king of Jarmuth, Japhia king of Lachish, and Debir king of Eglon, saying, 4 “Come up to
me and help me, that we may attack Gibeon, for it has made peace with Joshua and with the children
of Israel.” 5 Therefore the five kings of the Amorites, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king
of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, andthe king of Eglon, gathered together and went up, they and all their
armies, and camped before Gibeon and made war against it.
6
And the men of Gibeon sent to Joshua at the camp at Gilgal, saying, “Do not forsake your servants;
come up to us quickly, save us and help us, for all the kings of the Amorites who dwell in the mountains
have gathered together against us.”
10
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
7
So Joshua ascended from Gilgal, he and all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of
valor. 8 And the LORD said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand; not a
man of them shall stand before you.” 9 Joshua therefore came upon them suddenly, having marched all
night from Gilgal. 10 So the LORD routed them before Israel, killed them with a great slaughter at
Gibeon, chased them along the road that goes to Beth Horon, and struck them down as far as Azekah
and Makkedah. 11 And it happened, as they fled before Israel and were on the descent of Beth Horon,
that the LORD cast down large hailstones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died.There
were more who died from the hailstones than the children of Israel killed with the sword.
12
Then Joshua spoke to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the
children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel:
“Sun, stand still over Gibeon;
And Moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.”
13
So the sun stood still,
And the moon stopped,
Till the people had revenge
Upon their enemies.
Is this not written in the Book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and did not
hasten to go down for about a whole day. 14 And there has been no day like that, before it or after it,
that the LORD heeded the voice of a man; for the LORD fought for Israel.
15
Then Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, to the camp at Gilgal.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
11
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #6
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Today, and beyond, my FAITH is NOT dead, but ALIVE and working for me!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Luke 17: 5-6, NLT)
5
The apostles said to the Lord, “Show us how to increase our faith.”
6
The Lord answered, “If you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry
tree, ‘May you be uprooted and thrown into the sea,’ and it would obey you!
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
When stuff happens, how does your faith respond? Do you immediately respond in fear? How long
does it take for your faith to kick into gear?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
How Strong Is Your Faith?
Do you have faith? You may not think you do, or you may feel like your faith is weak and puny. But
consider this: Have you ever flown on an airplane without meeting the pilot? Have you ever eaten a
meal without knowing who cooked it?
As Christians, we all have faith to some degree. The Bible says in Romans 12 that each of us is given "a
measure of faith." We operate in faith all the time and don't even think about it. For example, some of
you reading this article have teenagers you send off to school every day. That requires some faith. And
we all need a little faith every time we drive in traffic.
Even if you don't feel like a spiritual giant of faith, you can take hope in God's Word that says that as a
believer, you have a measure of faith planted inside you.
Some of you might say, "Well, I have faith. I believe in Jesus." Frankly, it's one thing to say you have
faith, but it's an entirely different matter to apply your faith to life's challenges.
When the storms of life come (and they do for all of us), do you stay calm, cool and collected? Or do
you allow fear to overpower your faith? Do you give the situation completely over to God, or do you
try to figure everything out? Is your faith all talk?
It's easy for us to feel like we've got great faith when things go well or play out like we want them to.
And it's easy for us to have faith when something new comes along and life is exciting.
But stuff happens. And when stuff happens, how does your faith respond?
I'm not just referring to big dramatic events that take place...I'm also referring to the little things that
pop up and can easily sidetrack you.
12
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Faith is something that must be released. You can possess faith, but you must put it to use. A muscle
that is not used gets weak and shrivels up. If you don't use your faith, then it's no different than not
having any.
Do you release your faith through prayer, line up what you speak with God's promises, and do
whatever He asks you to do without trying to figure things out? Now that's the way to release your
faith!
Give your circumstance over to Jesus and be confident that He's got it all under control. Your life will
change dramatically once you unleash your faith. Don't just have it in your heart—let it out, put it to
the test and be amazed at what God does through your life! (Source: Joyce Meyer)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Mathew 8: 5-13, NLT)
5
When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer[a] came and pleaded with him, 6 “Lord, my young
servant[b] lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain.”
7
Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.”
8
But the officer said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from
where you are, and my servant will be healed. 9 I know this because I am under the authority of my
superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, ‘Go,’ and they go, or ‘Come,’
and they come. And if I say to my slaves, ‘Do this,’ they do it.”
10
When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, “I tell you
the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel!11 And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come
from all over the world—from east and west—and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the
feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. 12 But many Israelites—those for whom the Kingdom was prepared—
will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
13
Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, “Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened.” And
the young servant was healed that same hour.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
13
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #7
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
My Faith IS Alive And I Am Working My Faith With My Actions!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (James 2: 14, NLT)
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions?
Can that kind of faith save anyone?
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What Sacrifice(s) As God Invited You To Make In Your Daily Life That You've Resisted?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Is Your Faith Worth the Leap?
In today’s culture, many people have the opinion that we should live by our own standards, oblivious
to the Word of God. Some want the Blessing of the promises of God, without subjecting themselves to
obedience to God. However, to truly be happy and fulfilled, we must examine ourselves in the light of
God’s Word and live by it.
The Bible says, “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path” (Psalm 119:105).
The stress and tensions of life become more unbearable when we live in selfish disobedience to the
Word of faith. Yet simple submission and obedience to God’s Word relieve the stress that disobedience
and today’s culture impose. Doubt is crippling, but faith is empowering; so make that leap! Faith in
action brings victory!
The Bible says in James 2:26, that faith without works is dead. I have learned that faith with works
(action) is alive. Faith without works (action) can become an unfulfilled fantasy. For if I have faith that
God is leading me, but I do not follow or act on it, then faith turns to doubt and my inaction leads to
death; the death of my faith and the death of my dream. This is a horrible state in which to exist.
Unfulfilled faith creeps into one’s life like oil into water. Just as oil pollutes, leaving a nasty film which
ruins the purity of the water - so doubt, solidified by inaction, covers the purity of faith; rendering it
polluted, unfit, and unusable. Faith activated by works (action) skims the doubt that covers the water
of life, cleans it, and recovers the purity of the gift that obedience brings to fruition.
We must be doers of the word and not just hearers. It is so human to hear the word, rejoice in what we
hear, and then…. ponder. Pondering plants seeds of doubt, which grows into the mighty tree of
procrastination, that bears the poisonous leaves of inaction.
“But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted
along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they
do” (Psalms 1:2).
14
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
We must be like good soldiers and jump to attention, springing into action at the orders of our
commander, the Lord. But what do we do instead? We hear the order and then prepare to jump, but
inaction and hesitation cause us to get caught in the preparation, and we fail to jump. What a sad
sight, to see the army of the Lord procrastinating before Him! How undignified!
It is better to jump and fall, than be stuck squatting down to jump. Squatting is a horrible place to stay.
You can’t sit down. You can’t rise up. You can neither rest in your success nor stand in the knowledge
of a job well done. Go ahead and jump! You can ask how high on the way up! Better to relieve the
tension and stretch in the jump than to live with the constant strain of being stuck in the squat.
Obedience in the jump is the better way. Make that leap of faith. We’ll see you on the way up!
(Author: Gene Markland)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Luke 10: 25-37, NLT)
25
One day an expert in religious law stood up to test Jesus by asking him this question: “Teacher, what
should I do to inherit eternal life?”
26
Jesus replied, “What does the law of Moses say? How do you read it?”
27
The man answered, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your
strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”[a]
28
“Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!”
29
The man wanted to justify his actions, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Parable of the Good Samaritan
30
Jesus replied with a story: “A Jewish man was traveling from Jerusalem down to Jericho, and he was
attacked by bandits. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him up, and left him half dead beside the
road.
31
“By chance a priest came along. But when he saw the man lying there, he crossed to the other side of
the road and passed him by. 32 A Temple assistant[b] walked over and looked at him lying there, but he
also passed by on the other side.
33
“Then a despised Samaritan came along, and when he saw the man, he felt compassion for
him. 34 Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged
them. Then he put the man on his own donkey and took him to an inn, where he took care of
him. 35 The next day he handed the innkeeper two silver coins,[c] telling him, ‘Take care of this man. If
his bill runs higher than this, I’ll pay you the next time I’m here.’
36
“Now which of these three would you say was a neighbor to the man who was attacked by
bandits?” Jesus asked.
37
The man replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Then Jesus said, “Yes, now go and do the same.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
15
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Week #2: The Blessing of Righteousness
Day #1
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare today that I will make my relationship with God a priority.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture: (Matthew 6:33, NIV)
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder:
How can I pursue right living in my walk with God daily? At home? At work? At church?
Prayer Time #4: Devotion:
For God’s Blessing, Put Him First
The Kingdom of God is a present reality. It’s what we’re to be doing on the earth right now. The power
of God is the present resource. It’s the energy you get to do what God wants you to do once you’re
surrendered and submitted to his will.
God’s glory is the reason. It’s not the reality or the resource. It is the present reason for everything. It’s
all for God’s glory.
Romans 11:36 says, “Everything comes from him and exists by his power and is intended for his
glory” (NLT).
I talk to people all the time who say, “I have so much, and yet I feel unfulfilled. I’ve got a good family.
I’ve got a good job. I’ve got great kids. I’ve got good friends. I’ve got a good congregation to be a part
of. Why am I so unfulfilled?” It’s because you were made for more than this! You were made for more
than survival. You will never find fulfillment in life until you begin to live in God’s Kingdom, by God’s
power, and for God’s glory.
How do you live a fulfilled life — the kind of life that you were designed by God to live?
The Bible says in 1 Thessalonians 2:12, “You should live in a way that proves you belong to the God who
calls you into his kingdom and glory” (GW).
What does it mean to live in God’s Kingdom? It means you make God’s agenda your agenda. You make
God’s will your will. You care about what God cares about. Whatever you want God to bless, put him
first in that area. (Author: Rick Warren)
God should always have the first place in your life. Do not be anxious about anything because if I put
God first, everything else will fall into place, because God promised it in his word.
16
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture: (Joshua 3: 1-17, NLT)
Early the next morning Joshua and all the Israelites left Acacia Grove[a] and arrived at the banks of the
Jordan River, where they camped before crossing.2 Three days later the Israelite officers went through
the camp, 3 giving these instructions to the people: “When you see the Levitical priests carrying the Ark
of the Covenant of the LORD your God, move out from your positions and follow them. 4 Since you have
never traveled this way before, they will guide you. Stay about half a mile [b] behind them, keeping a
clear distance between you and the Ark. Make sure you don’t come any closer.”
5
Then Joshua told the people, “Purify yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do great wonders among
you.”
6
In the morning Joshua said to the priests, “Lift up the Ark of the Covenant and lead the people across
the river.” And so they started out and went ahead of the people.
7
The LORD told Joshua, “Today I will begin to make you a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites.
They will know that I am with you, just as I was with Moses. 8 Give this command to the priests who
carry the Ark of the Covenant: ‘When you reach the banks of the Jordan River, take a few steps into the
river and stop there.’”
9
So Joshua told the Israelites, “Come and listen to what the LORD your God says. 10 Today you will know
that the living God is among you. He will surely drive out the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites,
Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites ahead of you. 11 Look, the Ark of the Covenant, which belongs to
the Lord of the whole earth, will lead you across the Jordan River! 12 Now choose twelve men from the
tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 The priests will carry the Ark of the LORD, the Lord of all the
earth. As soon as their feet touch the water, the flow of water will be cut off upstream, and the river
will stand up like a wall.”
14
So the people left their camp to cross the Jordan, and the priests who were carrying the Ark of the
Covenant went ahead of them. 15 It was the harvest season, and the Jordan was overflowing its banks.
But as soon as the feet of the priests who were carrying the Ark touched the water at the river’s
edge,16 the water above that point began backing up a great distance away at a town called Adam,
which is near Zarethan. And the water below that point flowed on to the Dead Sea[c] until the riverbed
was dry. Then all the people crossed over near the town of Jericho.
17
Meanwhile, the priests who were carrying the Ark of the LORD’s Covenant stood on dry ground in the
middle of the riverbed as the people passed by. They waited there until the whole nation of Israel had
crossed the Jordan on dry ground.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
God, thank you in advance for all the things that will be given to me as I seek you first. Enable me God
to know all my needs will be met because I am seeking after your righteousness in Jesus name. God,
help me to diligently seek your voice, will, and way for my life. Lord I want to do that which is right in
your sight. I thank you Lord for the Blessing that I receive because I desire to do what is right in Jesus
name.
17
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #2
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Lord, THANK YOU that I can bring all of my hearts desires to you!
Prayer: Thank you father for hearing my prayer and delivering me out of my troubles. I know you are
near me and you are healing me. Praise the name of Jesus Christ. I receive your promise that every tear
will be wiped away in Jesus name.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture: (Psalm 34:1-17, NKJV)
I will bless the LORD at all times;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
2
My soul shall make its boast in the LORD;
The humble shall hear of it and be glad.
3
Oh, magnify the LORD with me,
And let us exalt His name together.
4
I sought the LORD, and He heard me,
And delivered me from all my fears.
5
They looked to Him and were radiant,
And their faces were not ashamed.
6
This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
7
The angel[a] of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them.
8
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good;
Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!
9
Oh, fear the LORD, you His saints!
There is no want to those who fear Him.
10
The young lions lack and suffer hunger;
But those who seek the LORD shall not lack any good thing.
11
Come, you children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the LORD.
12
Who is the man who desires life,
And loves many days, that he may see good?
13
Keep your tongue from evil,
And your lips from speaking deceit.
14
Depart from evil and do good;
Seek peace and pursue it.
15
The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,
And His ears are open to their cry.
16
The face of the LORD is against those who do evil,
To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.
17
The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
18
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #3: Devotional & Worship Time
I still have pounds to lose and overflowing closets, but this year my resolution isn’t based on external
goals. Instead, there’s a heart issue clambering for attention, and God is filling me with a simple
prayer: Lord, please make me completely righteous and not a bit self-righteous.
The word righteous means, “acting in accord with divine and moral law, free from guilt or sin”
according to Webster. But being righteous and looking righteous are two different things.
Looking righteous is something I’ve mastered.
I know how to follow the rules, play the game and fit into the church crowd. Maybe you’re like me and
are wired to work hard to get things done “right.” I like to please my peers and check items off my todo list.
Often it wins me the approval I crave. I get pats on the back, and it all looks good on the outside.
But on the inside — in the quiet moments — I can find myself exhausted. Defeated. Numb. Those
feelings let me know I’ve crossed from being righteous through Christ into trying to earn righteousness
myself.
Sometimes my self-righteousness leaks out and reveals its ugliness through judgmental thoughts and
attitudes towards others. That’s when I find myself looking down my nose at those struggling while
thinking I have it together or snapping with impatience when someone delays my next task.
Then I read Revelation 2 in a new light. In this passage, Jesus commends the church at Ephesus for
their good deeds. He praises them for hard work, perseverance, intolerance of wickedness, sound
doctrine and endurance. It’s a list of wonderful works indicating righteousness.
But Jesus follows with a stunning and scathing indictment, “You have forsaken the love you had at first.
Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will
come to you and remove your lampstand from its place” (Revelation 2:4b-5).
Those verses highlight the root of the issue and reveal the Ephesians were in the same predicament as
me. They were working hard, but without love they had become self-righteous, and God won’t tolerate
that.
Could I have lost my first love? Was that the cause of my self-righteous thoughts?
To maintain the right heart, God asks us to keep returning to our first love with Him. To rediscover the
newness, lightness and joy we felt at first. He urges us to constantly rekindle passion for Him, which
will deepen our love for Him and others. Pursuing righteousness solely through good works is an empty
endeavor, always leaving us impossibly short of the goal. Returning to our first love ensures full
righteousness as we follow Jesus, for He is our righteousness. “It is because of him that you are in
Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and
redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:30, NIV). (Author: Amy Carroll)
19
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Jesus knows about your troubles and he cares deeply for you. He will deliver you from all of your
problems and restore joy in your life. Keep crying out to God in prayer, because he hears you.
What hangups keeps hindering you from making progress? Take those to God!
Prayer Time #4: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #5: Question To Ponder: What keeps me from believing that God hears me when I cry out
in prayer?
Prayer Time #6: Scripture: Re-read Psalm 34-1-17 from earlier today.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
20
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #3
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I have the power and grace to walk in integrity each and every day of my life.
Prayer: Lord God, I come to you in the name of Jesus, and I ask you to deliver me anything that is false.
I want to walk in what is right and true in your sight I want to speak truth always and please forgive me
for telling lies and being deceitful in Jesus name.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading: (Proverbs 13:5, NLT)
The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked make themselves a stench and bring shame on
themselves.
Prayer Time #3: Devotional & Worship Time
An aging king woke up one day to the realization that should he drop dead, there would be no male in
the royal family to take his place. He was the last male in the royal family in a culture where only a
male could succeed to the throne – and he was aging. He decided that if he could not give birth to a
male, he would adopt a son who then could take his place but he insisted that such an adopted son
must be extraordinary in every sense of the word. So he launched a competition in his kingdom, open
to all boys, no matter what their background. Ten boys made it to the very top.
There was little to separate these boys in terms of intelligence and physical attributes and capabilities.
The king said to them, 'I have one last test and whoever comes top will become my adopted son and
heir to my throne.'
Then he said, 'This kingdom depends solely on agriculture. So the king must know how to cultivate
plants. So here is a seed of corn for each of you. Take it home and plant and nurture it for three weeks.
At the end of three weeks, we shall see who has done the best job of cultivating the seed. That person
will be my heir-apparent.' The boys took their seeds and hurried home. They each got a flower pot and
planted the seed as soon as they got home. There was much excitement in the kingdom as the people
waited with bated breath to see who was destined to be their next king.
In one home, the boy and his parents were almost heartbroken when after days of intense care, the
seed failed to sprout. He did not know what had gone wrong with his. He had selected the soil
carefully, he had applied the right quantity and type of fertilizer, he had been very dutiful in watering it
at the right intervals, he had even prayed over it day and night and yet his seed had turned out to be
unproductive.
Some of his friends advised him to go and buy a seed from the market and plant that. 'After all,' they
said, 'how can anyone tell one seed of corn from another?' But his parents who had always taught him
the value of integrity reminded him that if the king wanted them to plant any corn, he would have
21
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
asked them to go for their own seed. 'If you take anything different from what the king gave you that
would be dishonesty.'
'Maybe we are not destined for the throne. If so, let it be, but don't be found to have deceived the
king,' they told him. The D-Day came and the boys returned to the palace each of them proudly
exhibiting a very fine corn seedling. It was obvious that the other nine boys had had great success with
their seeds. The king began making his way down the line of eager boys and asked each of them, 'Is this
what came out of the seed I gave you?'
And each boy responded, 'Yes, your majesty.' And the king would nod and move down the line.
The king finally got to the last boy in the line-up. The boy was shaking with fear. He knew that the king
was going to have him thrown into prison for wasting his seed. 'What did you do with the seed I gave
you?' the king asked. 'I planted it and cared for it diligently, your majesty, but alas it failed to sprout.'
the boy said tearfully as the crowd booed him.
But the king raised his hands and signaled for silence. Then he said, 'My people behold your next king.'
The people were confused. 'Why that one?' many asked. 'How can he be the right choice?' The king
took his place on his throne with the boy by his side and said, 'I gave these boys boiled seeds. This test
was not for cultivating corn. It was the test of character; a test of integrity. It was the ultimate test.'
If a king must have one quality, it must be that he should be above dishonesty. Only this boy passed
the test. A boiled seed cannot sprout.' Never!!
We live in a society that has become obsessed with success and many show success at any cost. We
say the end justifies the means. It is the tragedy of life. You see, failure often is an invitation to God to
show that he is all powerful and does not need help to make us great or to bless us.
Prayer Time #4: Question To Ponder:
What keeps you from living a life of integrity?
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading: (Daniel 1: 8-16, NLT)
8
But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s
delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that
he might not defile himself. 9 Now God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of
the eunuchs.10 And the chief of the eunuchs said to Daniel, “I fear my lord the king, who has appointed
your food and drink. For why should he see your faces looking worse than the young men who are your
age? Then you would endanger my head before the king.”
11
So Daniel said to the steward[a] whom the chief of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah,
Mishael, and Azariah, 12 “Please test your servants for ten days, and let them give us vegetables to eat
and water to drink. 13 Then let our appearance be examined before you, and the appearance of the
young men who eat the portion of the king’s delicacies; and as you see fit, so deal with your
servants.” 14 So he consented with them in this matter, and tested them ten days.
22
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
15
And at the end of ten days their features appeared better and fatter in flesh than all the young men
who ate the portion of the king’s delicacies. 16 Thus the steward took away their portion of delicacies
and the wine that they were to drink, and gave them vegetables.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
23
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #4
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Today I will commit to doing good for others.
Prayer: My Heavenly Father, I come to you in the wonderful name of Jesus my Lord. I thank you that
you are creating in me a heart that wants to do good for others. You are the strength of my life and I
depend on you to help me to do good for even those who mistreat me. I ask that you help me bless
them that don’t have my best interest at heart. God grant me the heart to serve your people. I thank
you for the spiritual gifts I need to serve your people. I can get ahead of myself doing good, so God
help me to know what I should or should not be doing as I serve in Jesus name.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture: (Galatians 6:9, NLT)
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give
up.
Prayer Time #3: Devotional & Worship Time
The last command God gives us in the Romans 12 passage we've been studying this week says, "Do not
be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:21). The idea of overcoming the world is
a consistent concept throughout the entire New Testament. Scripture is clear that through the death of
Christ, we've been given the power and authority to overcome the work of the enemy in our own lives
and lead others to freedom. Revelation 12:11 says, "And they have conquered him by the blood of the
Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death." Conquering
the enemy is our destiny as God's people. In Matthew 10:6-8 Jesus says, "But go rather to the lost
sheep of the house of Israel. And proclaim as you go, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Heal
the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without
pay."
God gives us an important piece of his battleplan for the war against evil in Romans 12-- we are to
triumph over our enemy with good as our weapon. God doesn't fight evil with evil; he fights evil with
love. It's the love of God that will lead you to victory over the enemy in your own life, and it's God's
love that will be the weapon you use to lead other people to victory as well. God's goodness will draw
you out of pursuing the world and lead you to victory as Revelation 12:11 says, "they loved not their
own lives even unto death." And it is God's goodness that anoints you to "heal the sick, raise the dead,
cleanse lepers" and "cast out demons" as Matthew 10 says. The goodness of God will always be more
powerful than the enemy. His love will always triumph over the power of sin. (Author: Craig Denison)
Prayer Time #4: Question To Ponder
What keeps me from doing good for others?
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
24
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture (Romans 12: 1-21, NLT)
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living
sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And do not be conformed to this
world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and
acceptable and perfect will of God. 3 For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is
among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has
dealt to each one a measure of faith. 4 For as we have many members in one body, but all the
members do not have the same function, 5 so we, beingmany, are one body in Christ, and individually
members of one another.6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us
use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; 7 or ministry,let us use
it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; 8 he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with
liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness.
9
Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. 10 Bekindly affectionate to one
another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; 11 not lagging in diligence,
fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in
prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
14
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep
with those who weep. 16 Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high
things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
17
Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. 18 If it is possible, as
much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Beloved, do not avenge yourselves,
but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,”[a] says the
Lord. 20 Therefore
“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.”[b]
21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
25
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #5
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Lord, while I run from evil speaking and divisive actions, I will be known as a peacemaker!
Prayer: God of peace, by the might of your spirit help me to be a peace maker in every situation. Lord I
thank you for giving me peace in difficult situations, and where there is no peace use me to create it in
Jesus name.
Prayer #2: Scripture: (James 3:18, NLT)
Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness
Prayer #3: Devotion
Francis of Assisi, a monk from the 13th century, is credited with these words:
Make me a channel of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me bring your love;
where there is injury, your pardon, Lord;
and where there's doubt, true faith in you.
If you want to be a peacemaker, you need to know the peace that Jesus, the Prince of Peace, brings. A
few days before he was crucified, Jesus wept over Jerusalem, saying, "If you, even you, had only known
on this day what would bring you peace--but now it is hidden from your eyes" (Luke 19:42).
In this turmoil-filled world we live in, there is never true peace in a person's heart until Jesus comes to
reign in that person's life. With the coming of Jesus, real peace became a possibility in our world. Christ
is the ultimate peacemaker.
Our world desperately needs peacemakers who know the peace that only Christ can bring. Peace in
homes where there is constant fighting and bickering. Peace in churches that are sometimes torn apart
by conflict. Peace in cities where gunshots ring out. Peace in our troubled hearts. When you are a
peacemaker, Jesus says you are "a son of God"--a child of God who can enjoy the Lord's everlasting
inheritance.
Prayer Time #4: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #5: Scripture: (Matthew 5: 1-16, NLT)
And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to
Him. 2 Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:
3
“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
5
Blessed are the meek,
26
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
For they shall be filled.
7
Blessed are the merciful,
For they shall obtain mercy.
8
Blessed are the pure in heart,
For they shall see God.
9
Blessed are the peacemakers,
For they shall be called sons of God.
10
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11
“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for
My sake. 12 Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted
the prophets who were before you.
13
“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good
for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.
14
“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do they light a lamp
and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16 Let your
light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
6
Prayer Time #6: Question To Ponder
In what situations should I be a peace maker? At home? In my family? At work? In my community?
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
27
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #6
Prayer Time: #1 Declaration / Confession
I declare today I will let the Lord lead me in righteousness living
Prayer: Lord, I come to you in the name of Jesus Christ; you know how hard it is sometimes for me to
know which way I should go. Today I ask that you be my guide and order my footsteps. Show me the
clean path and way you want me to follow. Remind me of the promise of your word, in Jesus name.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture: (Psalms 5:8, NLT)
Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy because of mine enemies;
make the way straight before me.
Prayer Time #3: Devotional & Worship Time
Don’t we all want to know who we’re called to be and what we’re called to do? Isn’t that the big
question of our heart?
Mark Twain said, "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you
figure out why." I believe the key to discovering why we’re on this planet, why we’re alive, what our
purpose is, begins in knowing God and hearing His call. and it is outworked by obedience and following
Him, by being in step with the Holy Spirit and trusting God in the process.
Letting God determine our steps means we are living a surrendered life – listening for His will and
laying down our own fleshly desires. For me it means that I follow HIS road map, not my own. I may
think the best way is the straight line between two points but God may have a different route to
program me into my life’ GPS. Letting Him determine my steps also means that I choose to see things
from His perspective. What can seem like a delay to me may be the training ground for promotion, like
how Joseph, Joshua and Ruth experienced?
If I believe God is directing my paths, then…
…every moment is divinely orchestrated.
…every moment is strategic.
…every moment is God-directed.
Choosing the right path begins with SUBMISSION, not information, and not even direction. (Author:
One Passion, One Devotion)
Prayer Time #4: Question To Ponder:
What hinders me from living a righteous life?
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
28
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture: (Psalm 119: 1-18, NKJV)
Blessed are the undefiled in the way,
Who walk in the law of the LORD!
2
Blessed are those who keep His testimonies,
Who seek Him with the whole heart!
3
They also do no iniquity;
They walk in His ways.
4
You have commanded us
To keep Your precepts diligently.
5
Oh, that my ways were directed
To keep Your statutes!
6
Then I would not be ashamed,
When I look into all Your commandments.
7
I will praise You with uprightness of heart,
When I learn Your righteous judgments.
8
I will keep Your statutes;
Oh, do not forsake me utterly!
9
How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10
With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11
Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
12
Blessed are You, O LORD!
Teach me Your statutes.
13
With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.
14
I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.
15
I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.
16
I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.
17
Deal bountifully with Your servant,
That I may live and keep Your word.
18
Open my eyes, that I may see
Wondrous things from Your law.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
29
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #7
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
God, I will thank you every day for sending the gift of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the gift of Jesus and the righteousness that is given to me through my faith
in Jesus Christ. I appreciate the sacrifice you made when you let your son die for me on the cross. God
help me to always remember that I am righteous because of Jesus Christ and not of my own good
works. Receive my prayer in Jesus name.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture: (Ephesians 2: 8-10, NKJV)
8
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
9
Not of works, lest any man should boast.
10
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before
ordained that we should walk in them.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder:
How can continue to live righteously knowing that Jesus is ONLY reason I am righteous? In what ways
do you attempt to earn brownie points with God?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Imagine for a moment what it would be like to be debt for $10 million. Quite possibly because of the
debt, you will go to prison. There is even an article in the paper about it, accompanied by your photo.
Then, on the day of your sentencing, one of the richest people in the world shows up in court. He tells
you, "I heard about your plight, and I've arranged a deal with the judge. I have paid all that you owe,
plus interest." When you manage to overcome your emotions long enough to thank him, he adds, "By
the way, check your balance at the bank." So on your way home, you stop by the ATM machine. You
punch in your code and check your balance, which says that you have $20 million in your account.
That is an example of justification. When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, God removes all of your sin.
He forgives it. And then He put the righteousness of Christ into your account for the future. A technical
definition of the word "justified" is "to put to one's account." When God justifies a person, He does so
by placing to his or her credit the righteousness of Jesus Christ. This balances the moral and spiritual
budget for us.
As the apostle Paul wrote, "I no longer count on my own righteousness through obeying the law;
rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ. For God's way of making us right with himself
depends on faith" (Philippians 3:9). It is not a process that takes place over time—it is instantaneous.
This is part of justification that many believers may not be aware of. It is a wonderful, amazing thing
that God does for those who put their faith in Christ. (Source: Greg Laurie)
30
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture: (Matthew 18; 21-35, NLT)
21
Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him?
till seven times?
22
Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
23
Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his
servants.
24
And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand
talents.
25
But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children,
and all that he had, and payment to be made.
26
The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will
pay thee all.
27
Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the
debt.
28
But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred
pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest.
29
And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I
will pay thee all.
30
And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt.
31
So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their
lord all that was done.
32
Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all
that debt, because thou desiredst me:
33
Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?
34
And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto
him.
35
So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one
his brother their trespasses.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
31
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Week #3: Finances
Day #1
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Money is not my god! Money serves me as I serve God!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture: (Matthew 6: 21, NLT)
Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.
(Ecclesiastes 5: 10, NLT)
Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true
happiness!
Prayer Time #3: Devotion & Worship Time
No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be
loyal to the one and despise the other. —Luke 16:13
Godfrey Davis, who wrote a biography of the Duke of Wellington, said, “I found an old account ledger
that showed how the Duke spent his money. It was a far better clue to what he thought was really
important than the reading of his letters or speeches.”
How we handle money reveals much about our priorities. That’s why Jesus often talked about money.
One-sixth of the Gospels’ content, including one out of every three parables, touches on stewardship.
Jesus wasn’t a fundraiser. He dealt with money matters because money matters. For some of us,
though, it matters too much.
Jesus warned that we can become slaves to money. We may not think that money means more to us
than God does. But Jesus did not say we must serve God more than we serve money. The issue isn’t
what occupies first place in our life, but whether we serve money at all. Pastor and author George
Buttrick said, “Of all the masters the soul can choose, there are at last only two—God and money. All
choices, however small, however the alternatives may be disguised, are but variants of this choice.”
Does your checkbook show that Jesus is the Master in your life?
If we pursue mere earthly gain,
We choose a path that ends in pain;
But joy and peace are in our soul
When we pursue a heavenly goal. —D. De Haan
Source: Haddon W. Robinson
Prayer Time #4: Question To Ponder
Did you do a heart check today to confirm that money and possessions is your servant and not the
other way around?
32
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Matthew 19: 16-22, NLT)
16
Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good[a] Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have
eternal life?”
17
So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good?[b] No one is good but One, that is, God.[c] But if you
want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”
18
He said to Him, “Which ones?”
Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not
bear false witness,’ 19 ‘Honor your father and your mother,’[d] and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as
yourself.’ ”[e]
20
The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth.[f]What do I still lack?”
21
Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will
have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”
22
But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
33
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #2
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Declare That I have the Power to Get Wealth From Multiple Streams of Income!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture (Deuteronomy 8: 18, NLT)
18
“And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He
may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What gifts, talents, and passions do you have that could be God’s way of providing additional revenue
and opportunities for you? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you those creative and innovative means.
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
When we study scripture and see Job's position more closely in Job 1:1-3, we notice that Job doesn't
just have a few sheep, a few camels, a couple of oxen, and three donkeys. No, this man who feared
God and shunned evil had thousands of sheep and camels, a thousand oxen and hundreds of shedonkeys, and a great number of servants (employees who managed all of his crops and animals).
If Job just kept a handful, or even a few dozen of these types of animals around, we might imagine Job
just used them to feed and clothe his family, and maybe even enjoyed a few as pets. But even with a
good-sized family (a wife and 10 kids), what would Job need with thousands and thousands of various
types of animals, not to mention all of the employees? He couldn't possibly need all of this for himself.
The fact is, the Blessing manifested multiple streams of income and resources that Job oversaw,
causing him to become a man of tremendous wealth.
When you examine the entire body of the Scripture, it is apparent that multiple streams of income and
resources is God's idea. By His very nature as Creator, God is creative and inventive, and as His
children, we are told be imitators of Him - after all, we carry His spiritual DNA!
This creative and inventive nature of God in us, ought to have an impact in our finances. As believers,
we have the potential to produce much more than we currently do in any area - including our finances.
It's time that we become intentional in exercising our faith to walk in the full potential of the Blessing.
When believers have greater freedom in their finances, they can have a greater impact in advancing
the preaching of the Gospel and the work of the ministry. (Source: Keith A. Butler)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
34
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Matthew 25: 14-30, NKJV)
14
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and
delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to
each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. 16 Then he who had received
the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 And likewise he who had
received two gained two more also. 18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and
hid his lord’s money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with
them.
20
“So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you
delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ 21 His lord said to him,
‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over
many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ 22 He also who had received two talents came and said,
‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.’ 23 His lord
said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make
you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
24
“Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man,
reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 And I was
afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’
26
“But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I
have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 So you ought to have deposited my
money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with
interest.28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
29
‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does
not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer
darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
35
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #3
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
As I honor God first with my finances and resources, I declare that I Live Debt Free!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Proverbs22: 7, NKJV)
The rich rules over the poor,
And the borrower is servant to the lender.
(Romans 12: 8, NKJV)
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
In what ways can you create a strategy to move towards being totally debt free and remaining debt
free? What sacrifices are needed? Whose help might you need to arrive at that point?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
It is not always a lack of money that creates financial pressure. Many times it is simply a matter of
attitude. If there is a right attitude toward money, freedom from financial bondage can be assured.
God did not say that money and material things were problems; money is neither good nor bad. It is
the use of money and the attitude toward money that is the problem. Therefore, Jesus regularly
warned His followers to guard their hearts against greed, ego, and pride, because Satan can control
God’s people with these emotional tools. In the area of finances, God’s people are extremely
vulnerable. As such, they need to be encouraged to follow the necessary steps that will ensure money
management according to God’s plan, thus assuring financial freedom.
If you are continually strapped financially and are sick and tired of it, God has help for you. Many,
today, live on borrowed time and borrowed money. The Bible does not teach, as some propose that all
debt is wicked and sinful. However, it does teach the undesirability of debt. Debt should be a last
resort. God may occasionally allow it in order to teach us discipline. However, He never meant it to be
a way of life.
Americans are a covetous people who always want more and more stuff. Influenced by a multitude of
advertisements, they think they must have the latest, the best; and it must be state of the art. This
leads them into financial disaster and keeps them from using their God-given funds to do the work of
God.
If you are looking for answers to your financial problems, there are principles in the Bible that can help
you. However, you must be serious in their application and obedient to the Lord in these matters.
There are many ways to get into debt but only a few ways to get out and stay out of debt: selfdiscipline.
36
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
We believe God for miracles, even in our finances. God can create unknown doors for debt
cancellation and debt reduction. He also invites us to be strategic and disciplined in our living.
Most Christians have an upside-down view of money. They feel that the money they have is theirs and
that God’s money is the portion that they give to the church. But God has a different view. As Lord,
God, and King, He owns everything—including the money that we claim as our own. As such, He has
clear ideas of how He wants His people to function and to make use of His possessions—ideas that
result in financial freedom for His people, if they are followed step by step. (Author: Larry Burkett)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (2 Kings 4: 1-7, NLT)
A certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets cried out to Elisha, saying, “Your servant my
husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the LORD. And the creditor is coming to take
my two sons to be his slaves.”
2
So Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?” And she said,
“Your maidservant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil.”
3
Then he said, “Go, borrow vessels from everywhere, from all your neighbors—empty vessels; do not
gather just a few. 4 And when you have come in, you shall shut the door behind you and your sons;
then pour it into all those vessels, and set aside the full ones.”
5
So she went from him and shut the door behind her and her sons, who brought the vessels to her; and
she poured it out. 6 Now it came to pass, when the vessels were full, that she said to her son, “Bring me
another vessel.”
And he said to her, “There is not another vessel.” So the oil ceased. 7 Then she came and told the man
of God. And he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debt; and you and your sons live on the rest.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
37
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #4
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
According to Proverbs 10:4, My Focus and Faithfulness bring Godly opportunities into my life!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Isaiah 1: 19, NKJV)
If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the good of the land;
Deuteronomy 30: 9 (NKJV)
The LORD your God will make you abound in all the work of your hand, in the fruit of your body, in the
increase of your livestock, and in the produce of your land for good. For the LORD will again rejoice over
you for good as He rejoiced over your fathers,
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What is already in your hand that God has blessed and wants you to maximize?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
It was just another ordinary day. Nothing special, nothing out of the norm. For Moses, it was pretty
much the same routine it had been for the past 40 years: wake up, take care of sheep all day, go to
bed, and start all over again the next day. His years spent growing up as a prince in Pharaoh’s palace on
the beautiful banks of the Nile seemed a lifetime away. Now his days consisted of taking care of his
father-in-law’s flocks of sheep out on the dry and dusty desert plains of Midian. At 80 years old, his life
was over. Whatever dreams he may have once had were now long gone.
It wasn’t a horrible life. In fact, it was pretty peaceful. In spite of his education and learning, Moses had
come to accept his lot in life and resigned himself to it. But then he came across a burning bush. God
asked him a question. And life as Moses knew it forever changed.
The sight of a bush burning in the desert probably wasn’t terribly shocking to Moses. But then, when
the bush continued to blaze without burning up, his curiosity was piqued, and he drew closer to
investigate. At that moment, Moses heard God’s voice coming from within the burning bush, calling
him by name.
Imagine how Moses felt when God told him He had seen the agony of His people in Egypt and heard
their cries for deliverance, and He was sending Moses to lead them out! For 40 years, he had led
nothing but sheep. Is it any wonder that Moses responded with, “What if they won’t believe me or
listen to me? What if they say, ‘The Lord never appeared to you’?”
Do you know how God chose to answer Moses’ question? With a seemingly unrelated question of His
own: “What’s in your hand?”
Now Moses must have wondered why God would ask him a question He obviously knew the answer to,
but he simply replied, “A shepherd’s staff.” And then God commanded, “Throw it on the ground,
38
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Moses.” So Moses threw it on the ground, and lo and behold, it turned into a snake! Naturally, Moses
turned and ran; that is, until he was stopped in his tracks by God’s command to pick up the snake by its
tail. With a considerable amount of nervousness, Moses cautiously reached out his hand and picked
the snake up by its tail, and it immediately became a staff again.
We don’t know how long Moses had been using that particular staff, but odds are that it was quite a
while. Most likely, he had grown pretty familiar with all of the staff’s little nicks and grooves, and the
passage of time had probably weathered the wood to the point where it was now smooth and
completely at home in his hand. His staff represented so much more than just a walking stick. First, it
represented his identity. Just as a stethoscope represents a doctor or a tool belt represents a
mechanic, Moses’ staff was the most recognizable symbol of his occupation as a shepherd—his career,
his job. Secondly, it was a symbol of his income. In those days, people didn’t have bank accounts, credit
cards or hedge funds … they had cattle, goats and sheep. And as caretaker of his father-in-law’s flocks
of sheep, Moses’ income—his money and possessions—was inextricably linked to his position. The
third thing the staff symbolized was Moses’ influence. Because when a shepherd uses his staff to move
sheep from Point A to Point B, he is essentially influencing them.
So in essence, when God asked Moses, “What’s in your hand?” and told him to “throw it on the
ground,” He was saying, “Are you going to lay down your identity? Surrender your income? Let go of
your influence? Because if you do, I’ll take something that seems dead to you, and I’ll make it come
alive. I’ll make a miracle out of it. It may seem like an insignificant stick to you, but if you surrender it to
My hands, I’ll do things you could never imagine possible.”
The question that God asked Moses so many years ago still resonates just as strongly today: What’s in
your hand? Your talent, background, education, freedom, health, contacts, opportunities, mind,
passions, wealth, ideas, creativity … What’s in your hand?
The first step to going out lies in giving in. Before we can “go,” God wants us to “let go” … to totally,
completely, unconditionally, absolutely surrender to Him each and every single day.
So ask yourself today, “What’s in my hand? Author: Gateway Church
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Exodus 4: 1-17, NKJV)
Then Moses answered and said, “But suppose they will not believe me or listen to my voice; suppose
they say, ‘The LORD has not appeared to you.’”
2
So the LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?”
He said, “A rod.”
3
And He said, “Cast it on the ground.” So he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses
fled from it. 4 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Reach out your hand and take it by the tail” (and he
reached out his hand and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand), 5 “that they may believe that
theLORD God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has
appeared to you.”
6
Furthermore the LORD said to him, “Now put your hand in your bosom.” And he put his hand in his
bosom, and when he took it out, behold, his hand wasleprous, like snow. 7 And He said, “Put your hand
in your bosom again.” So he put his hand in his bosom again, and drew it out of his bosom, and behold,
39
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
it was restored like his other flesh. 8 “Then it will be, if they do not believe you, nor heed the message
of the first sign, that they may believe the message of the latter sign. 9 And it shall be, if they do not
believe even these two signs, or listen to your voice, that you shall take water from the river[a] and
pour it on the dry land. The water which you take from the river will become blood on the dry land.”
10
Then Moses said to the LORD, “O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither before nor since You have
spoken to Your servant; but I am slow of speech and slow of tongue.”
11
So the LORD said to him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the
seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD? 12 Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and
teach you what you shall say.”
13
But he said, “O my Lord, please send by the hand of whomever else You may send.”
14
So the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and He said: “Is not Aaron the Levite your
brother? I know that he can speak well. And look, he is also coming out to meet you. When he sees
you, he will be glad in his heart.15 Now you shall speak to him and put the words in his mouth. And I will
be with your mouth and with his mouth, and I will teach you what you shall do. 16 So he shall be your
spokesman to the people. And he himself shall be as a mouth for you, and you shall be to him as
God. 17 And you shall take this rod in your hand, with which you shall do the signs.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
40
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #5
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
God is releasing human angels to be a blessing to me, carry my increase, and possibilities for
promotion. People are speaking positive on my behalf and favor orders opportunities for me.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Luke 6: 38, KJV)
Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running
over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be
measured to you again.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Are You As Prepared As Possible By Being Friendly and Pleasant To Everyone?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
God is our source, but God uses people. For instance, if we pray for finances, God is not going to
counterfeit currency and put it into our wallets; He will often time use people to get the money to us.
So, sometimes, it is not always as simple as praying for money and receiving it in the next minute. We
need to believe the Lord hears and answers our prayers and then pray for the people He's going to use
to deliver the answer. That could be our employers, the people who buy our goods, or any number of
people.
As long as we participate in God’s system of giving and receiving, we’ll always be in a position for
people to be carriers of our blessings.
The grand characteristic feature of the society of Jesus’ followers must be generosity. They must be
known among men as givers rather than judges. Boundless generosity, limitless kindness to all, saint
and sinner - that is what he, the Master, would press home to those who would follow his lead. Men
would find out in time what generous friends they were, and would in their turn freely give to them.
In this text, Jesus knew his audience and they would immediately understand the principle of this
receiving from people. In eastern markets of the day, vendors would be seen pouring extra purchased
contents into the pockets of purchasers. In other words, He wanted them to know that God was in the
business of providing extra pockets-full of ‘measure’ (or increase) into their pockets because of the
heart and lifestyle that they lived. This principle applies to us today. As you honor God with your living
and honor people with your generosity, you can look for God to use people to come and bless you
back!
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
41
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Ruth 2: 1-23, NLT)
Now there was a wealthy and influential man in Bethlehem named Boaz, who was a relative of Naomi’s
husband, Elimelech.
2
One day Ruth the Moabite said to Naomi, “Let me go out into the harvest fields to pick up the stalks
of grain left behind by anyone who is kind enough to let me do it.”
Naomi replied, “All right, my daughter, go ahead.” 3 So Ruth went out to gather grain behind the
harvesters. And as it happened, she found herself working in a field that belonged to Boaz, the relative
of her father-in-law, Elimelech.
4
While she was there, Boaz arrived from Bethlehem and greeted the harvesters. “The LORD be with
you!” he said.
“The LORD bless you!” the harvesters replied.
5
Then Boaz asked his foreman, “Who is that young woman over there? Who does she belong to?”
6
And the foreman replied, “She is the young woman from Moab who came back with Naomi. 7 She
asked me this morning if she could gather grain behind the harvesters. She has been hard at work ever
since, except for a few minutes’ rest in the shelter.”
8
Boaz went over and said to Ruth, “Listen, my daughter. Stay right here with us when you gather grain;
don’t go to any other fields. Stay right behind the young women working in my field. 9 See which part
of the field they are harvesting, and then follow them. I have warned the young men not to treat you
roughly. And when you are thirsty, help yourself to the water they have drawn from the well.”
10
Ruth fell at his feet and thanked him warmly. “What have I done to deserve such kindness?” she
asked. “I am only a foreigner.”
11
“Yes, I know,” Boaz replied. “But I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law
since the death of your husband. I have heard how you left your father and mother and your own land
to live here among complete strangers. 12 May the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have
come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done.”
13
“I hope I continue to please you, sir,” she replied. “You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to
me, even though I am not one of your workers.”
14
At mealtime Boaz called to her, “Come over here, and help yourself to some food. You can dip your
bread in the sour wine.” So she sat with his harvesters, and Boaz gave her some roasted grain to eat.
She ate all she wanted and still had some left over.
15
When Ruth went back to work again, Boaz ordered his young men, “Let her gather grain right among
the sheaves without stopping her. 16 And pull out some heads of barley from the bundles and drop
them on purpose for her. Let her pick them up, and don’t give her a hard time!”
17
So Ruth gathered barley there all day, and when she beat out the grain that evening, it filled an
entire basket.[a] 18 She carried it back into town and showed it to her mother-in-law. Ruth also gave her
the roasted grain that was left over from her meal.
19
“Where did you gather all this grain today?” Naomi asked. “Where did you work? May the LORD bless
the one who helped you!”
So Ruth told her mother-in-law about the man in whose field she had worked. She said, “The man I
worked with today is named Boaz.”
20
“May the LORD bless him!” Naomi told her daughter-in-law. “He is showing his kindness to us as well
as to your dead husband.[b] That man is one of our closest relatives, one of our family redeemers.”
21
Then Ruth[c] said, “What’s more, Boaz even told me to come back and stay with his harvesters until
the entire harvest is completed.”
42
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
22
“Good!” Naomi exclaimed. “Do as he said, my daughter. Stay with his young women right through
the whole harvest. You might be harassed in other fields, but you’ll be safe with him.”
23
So Ruth worked alongside the women in Boaz’s fields and gathered grain with them until the end of
the barley harvest. Then she continued working with them through the wheat harvest in early summer.
And all the while she lived with her mother-in-law.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
43
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #6
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
God is (Re)Positioning me to see and understand creative ways to live abundantly!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Deuterony. 28: 1-6, NLT)
“If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today,
the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. 2 You will experience all these
blessings if you obey theLORD your God:
3
Your towns and your fields
will be blessed.
4
Your children and your crops
will be blessed.
The offspring of your herds and flocks
will be blessed.
5
Your fruit baskets and breadboards
will be blessed.
6
Wherever you go and whatever you do,
you will be blessed.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
When was the last time you looked with fresh eyes on your life & opportunities that you may have
before you? Who else could you invite to engage in healthy dialogue and have fresh eyes to see great
possibilities in your life?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Very few of us have the kind of resources that allow us to effortlessly accomplish any goal. Whether a
quest or personal project, all the way to starting a new business, constraints stand in the way.
But are constraints always bad? Can they, in fact, be enabling and even desirable?
Consider the case of IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad, during the very early days. Kamprad couldn’t afford
the price of goose down for the affordable comforters that he wanted to sell. Instead he turned to
Chinese chicken farmers.
The farmers typically plucked the chickens and burned the feathers. Kamprad persuaded the farmers
to sell the feathers to him on the cheap. The farmers made additional money, and the constraint
turned into a coup. A classic win-win.
Now, every situation is different, but some things are universal. Instead of backing off your goals at the
first “insurmountable” constraint, think of it instead as an opportunity to not only overcome the
obstacle, but to transform your initiative into something more ambitious and abundant.
44
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
As Marianne Williamson said, “The key to abundance is meeting limited circumstances with unlimited
thoughts.”(Author: Brian Clark)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (John 6: 1-13, NLT)
After this, Jesus crossed over to the far side of the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. 2 A
huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miraculous signs as he healed
the sick. 3 Then Jesus climbed a hill and sat down with his disciples around him. 4 (It was nearly time for
the Jewish Passover celebration.) 5 Jesus soon saw a huge crowd of people coming to look for him.
Turning to Philip, he asked, “Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?” 6 He was testing Philip,
for he already knew what he was going to do.
7
Philip replied, “Even if we worked for months, we wouldn’t have enough money[a] to feed them!”
8
Then Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up. 9 “There’s a young boy here with five barley loaves
and two fish. But what good is that with this huge crowd?”
10
“Tell everyone to sit down,” Jesus said. So they all sat down on the grassy slopes. (The men alone
numbered about 5,000.) 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks to God, and distributed them to the
people. Afterward he did the same with the fish. And they all ate as much as they wanted. 12 After
everyone was full, Jesus told his disciples, “Now gather the leftovers, so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So
they picked up the pieces and filled twelve baskets with scraps left by the people who had eaten from
the five barley loaves.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
45
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #7
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Declare That I Am Blessed To Be A Blessing
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Acts 20: 35, NLT)
And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should
remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
(Proverbs 11: 24, NLT)
Give freely and become more wealthy;
be stingy and lose everything.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Are You Open To Hearing the Holy Spirit's Leading You In Opportunities To Be Generous?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Meditate on this thought: “You can always give without loving, but you can never love without giving.”
Author: Amy Carmichael
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Luke 19: 1-9 | Notice in Verse 8 how Zaccheus responds after
having been with Jesus.)
Jesus entered Jericho and made his way through the town. 2 There was a man there named Zacchaeus.
He was the chief tax collector in the region, and he had become very rich. 3 He tried to get a look at
Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. 4 So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree
beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way.
5
When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name.“Zacchaeus!” he
said. “Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.”
6
Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. 7 But the
people were displeased. “He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner,” they grumbled.
8
Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord,
and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!”
9
Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true
son of Abraham.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
46
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Week 4: Family
Day #1
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that my family is restored. I declare that our hearts are knit closely together and we don’t
allow anything to come in between us that might division or confusion.
Father, I come to You knowing that You are a God Who hears and answers prayers. I ask Lord that You
would visit each member of my family, restore the joy of Your salvation in all of our hearts. May Your
Spirit of peace and hope fill each of our hearts as we recognize that our hope is in You alone. In Jesus’
name, Amen
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Psalm 51:1, NLT)
Restore to me (to us) the joy of Your salvation, And uphold me by Your generous Spirit. (Emphasis
personal…)
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Have you ever told God that your husband, your wife, your children are not like they were before? That
you just wanted things back the way they used to be? Did you also change? Is it all them or are there
some areas where you might also need to adjust?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Satan often uses life circumstances to cause discord within families. Miscommunication, moodiness,
anger, resentment and even jealousy can manifest and you will notice that the joy and peace
within your family seems to have left. Do you want that peace, that joy back? Examining yourself is a
great way to establish peace and unity. See how you can be the bigger person in the situation or
maybe apologize even if it wasn't your fault. Today is the day! God’s going to use you to bring your
family back to wholeness. Restoration is the act of bringing back something that existed before. If your
family is in a good place, including being unified and progressive, then take time today to simply offer
God thanks and gratitude that things are well!
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Genesis 50: 14-21, NLT)
14
After burying Jacob, Joseph returned to Egypt with his brothers and all who had accompanied him to
his father’s burial. 15 But now that their father was dead, Joseph’s brothers became fearful. “Now
Joseph will show his anger and pay us back for all the wrong we did to him,” they said.
16
So they sent this message to Joseph: “Before your father died, he instructed us 17 to say to you:
‘Please forgive your brothers for the great wrong they did to you—for their sin in treating you so
47
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
cruelly.’ So we, the servants of the God of your father, beg you to forgive our sin.” When Joseph
received the message, he broke down and wept. 18 Then his brothers came and threw themselves
down before Joseph. “Look, we are your slaves!” they said.
19
But Joseph replied, “Don’t be afraid of me. Am I God, that I can punish you? 20 You intended to harm
me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many
people. 21 No, don’t be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children.” So he reassured
them by speaking kindly to them.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
48
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #2
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that my entire family is blessed. I declare that each member will live life to their full potential
and that you will use my family to be light to others.
Father, I thank You for being the God of every blessing and the source of everything good. I know it is
in Your heart to bless the lives of Your children, and as Your child, I desire Your blessing upon my
family. Thank You that Your blessings enrich our lives, leave us without sorrow, bring us the treasures
of Your grace, and express all the kindness of Your favor. In Jesus’ name, Amen
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Psalm 20:4, NLT)
May He grant you according to your heart’s desire, And fulfill all your purpose.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
How can you help encourage another family member in an area that is their passion and potential life
purpose?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
When was the last time someone really encouraged you? Maybe it was a family member or friend.
How did it make you feel? How did you view yourself afterwards? If you haven't been encouraged in a
while, how greatly do you long for it?
Encouragement is powerful! It has the ability to change emotions and trajectories. It has the power to
fill someone with courage and boldness to say yes to the plans and heart of God. Encouragement is
truly a gift we've been given for edifying each other. We are meant to encourage one another. The
Bible makes it clear that as brothers and sisters in Christ, we are meant to both give and receive
encouragement. Hebrews 10:23-25 says, "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering,
for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works,
not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more
as you see the Day drawing near." If we’re commanded as brothers and sisters in Christ, then we are
absolutely expected to do that as biological family members.
You can live like Jesus today. Who (what family member) needs an encouraging word from you? Who
needs to be encouraged by you simply wanting to spend some time with them? There's grace on your
life to minister to the hurting and lonely around you. There's grace to minister like Jesus. Walk in
relationship with your heavenly Father, live with the knowledge that you are fully loved, and love
others through the power of encouragement. (Author: Craig Denison)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Galatians 6: 1-10, ESV)
49
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Brothers,[a] if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit
of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. 2 Bear one another's burdens, and so
fulfill the law of Christ.3 For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives
himself.4 But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and
not in his neighbor. 5 For each will have to bear his own load.
6
Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches. 7 Do not be
deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. 8 For the one who sows to
his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit
reap eternal life. 9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not
give up. 10 So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who
are of the household of faith.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
50
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #3
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that my family, as our hearts are sensitive to the Holy Spirit, will show compassion to one
another.
Father, I pray that You would fill the hearts of each member of my family with compassion. I pray You
would open our eyes to the needs we can meet and stir our hearts to action. You’ve given each one of
us different talents, gifts, and interests, may You show us how to use those things to help each other
in order to show Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (1 Peter 3:8, NLT)
Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as
brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
How can you be an example in showing compassion?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Jesus was having what we, in the natural, would call a ‘bad day’. He had just received the news that the
person who most understood him, his cousin, the prophet John the Baptist, had been wantonly
murdered to fulfill a shallow promise by a lustful king.
Jesus, though he was God, was also human, with human emotions. When he received this tragic news
he just wanted to get away from it all. Matthew tells us:
Now when Jesus heard about John, He withdrew from there in a boat to a secluded place by Himself…
(Matthew 14:13a, NASB)
We’ve all been in that place where the cares of this world come over us like a tidal wave and all we
want to do is to get away and be alone with God.
But the people would not let him have this time of mourning. Matthew tells us that
…when the people heard of this, they followed Him on foot from the cities. (Matthew 14:13b, NASB)
Jesus could have sent Peter or James out to tell the masses that he was taking the day off. He could
have asked John to let the throng know that he was ‘indisposed’. But the Bible tells us how Jesus
responded:
When He went ashore, He saw a large crowd, and felt compassion for them and healed their sick.
(Matthew 14:14, NASB)
Earlier Jesus revealed the heart of God to his disciples when he told them:
It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. But go and learn what
this means: 'I desire compassion, and not sacrifice,' for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.
(Matthew 9:12, NASB)
51
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Jesus made it clear that not only does God have compassion on sinners, but He desires that we have
that same compassion. He wants to turn our hearts of stone – as a result of hurts, betrayal, cynicism,
or selfishness – into hearts of flesh that long to love God and make His love known to the world … even
when we’re having a ‘bad day’.
Today, as we go through our day, let’s take some time to ask that God would give us a heart of
compassion for the lost. Let’s pray that through this heart of compassion we would be moved to
become a part of what God is doing to take the gospel to hurting people around the world. (Author:
Craig von Buseck)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Colossians 3: 12-17, NLT)
12
Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted
mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and
forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.14 Above
all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace
that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.
And always be thankful.
16
Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all
the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And
whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God
the Father.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
52
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #4
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that I will have love in my heart, attitude, and speech. I will treat those closest to me with the
same, if not more, respect than I treat strangers.
Heavenly Father, please shine Your light upon my family. Give us strength to overcome all of the
difficulties that we are dealing with now and protect us against any and all problems we may
encounter in the future. O Lord, please bring us together as we are meant to be. May the love that
binds us only grow stronger as we fulfill the destiny you have laid out for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Philippians 2: 1-8, NLT)
Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship
together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by
agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind
and purpose.
3
Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than
yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.
5
You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.
6
Though he was God,[a]
he did not think of equality with God
as something to cling to.
7
Instead, he gave up his divine privileges[b];
he took the humble position of a slave[c]
and was born as a human being.
When he appeared in human form,[d]
8
he humbled himself in obedience to God
and died a criminal’s death on a cross.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
How can you show love for someone in your family who is difficult to love?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
In the book God in the Dock, author C. S. Lewis describes the kind of people we have trouble getting
along with. Selfishness, anger, jealousy, or other quirks often sabotage our relationship with them. We
sometimes think, Life would be much easier if we didn’t have to contend with such difficult people.
Lewis then turns the tables on us by pointing out that these frustrations are what God has to endure
with each of us every day. He writes: “You are just that sort of person. You also have a fatal flaw in
your character. All the hopes and plans of others have again and again shipwrecked on your character
just as your hopes and plans have shipwrecked on theirs.” This self-awareness should motivate us to
try to show the same patience and acceptance to others that God shows to us daily.
53
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
In Ephesians, Paul exhorts us to arm ourselves relationally “with all lowliness and gentleness, with
longsuffering, bearing with one another in love” (4:2). The one who is patient is better able to deal
with a difficult person without becoming provoked to anger and retaliation. Instead, he or she is able
to endure, exhibiting grace in spite of upsetting behavior.
Are there difficult people in your life? Ask God to show His love through you. (Author: Dennis Fisher)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Genesis 13: 1-8, NLT)
So Abram left Egypt and traveled north into the Negev, along with his wife and Lot and all that they
owned. 2 (Abram was very rich in livestock, silver, and gold.) 3 From the Negev, they continued traveling
by stages toward Bethel, and they pitched their tents between Bethel and Ai, where they had camped
before.4 This was the same place where Abram had built the altar, and there he worshiped
the LORD again.
5
Lot, who was traveling with Abram, had also become very wealthy with flocks of sheep and goats,
herds of cattle, and many tents. 6 But the land could not support both Abram and Lot with all their
flocks and herds living so close together. 7 So disputes broke out between the herdsmen of Abram and
Lot. (At that time Canaanites and Perizzites were also living in the land.)
8
Finally Abram said to Lot, “Let’s not allow this conflict to come between us or our herdsmen. After all,
we are close relatives! 9 The whole countryside is open to you. Take your choice of any section of the
land you want, and we will separate. If you want the land to the left, then I’ll take the land on the right.
If you prefer the land on the right, then I’ll go to the left.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
54
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #5
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that my family has authority over sickness and disease. I declare that we are good stewards
over our bodies and we live in perfect health and walk in healing.
Father, in the Name of Jesus, I confess Your Word concerning health and healing for my family. Isaiah
53:5 says that You was wounded for our transgressions, You was bruised for our iniquities; The
chastisement for our peace was upon You, and by Your stripes we are healed. I hold fast to my
confession of Your Word and on behalf of my family I stand immovable, knowing that health and
healing are ours, in Jesus' Name. Amen
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Isaiah 41:10, NLT)
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help
you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Who in your family needs your assistance to get back on track with their health? What research,
insight, accountability, and support can you offer?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
What should motivate Christians to be healthy? Why does God desire that we be healthy?
Here are two excerpts from the book Faith and Health, written by Charles Reynolds Brown (past Dean
of the Yale Divinity School) and published in 1910.
“The Lord of Love is seeking to banish fear, to bestow confidence, to increase faith, to promote
healing. He too is desirous that you should gain peace, develop strength, obtain happiness and
enter into his rest which remains for the people of God. While you are working out your own
salvation by systematic, persistent effort, God is working with you and for you to accomplish
his good pleasure.”
“The Church of Jesus Christ ought to ‘teach health,’ not as its chief business, but as a leaf on the
tree of its main purpose, which, as already indicated, is to produce the good fruit of Christian
character and service.”
God wants us to be healthy so that we can experience the good “fruit” he has in store for us. The more
fruit we have in our life the more glory God receives.
But good health should not be desired as an end in and of itself. God desires us to have good health,
and the emotional and physical energy typically associated with it, because this better enables us to
have more fruit in our lives and to better use the gifts and talents that he has given to us to serve
55
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
others and to serve him. When these things happen we are in God’s will. When we’re in God’s will, he
is glorified. This is why God desires a Christian to be healthy. (Author: Dale Fletcher)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Luke 7: 1-10, ESV)
After he had finished all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered Capernaum. 2 Now a
centurion had a servant[a] who was sick and at the point of death, who was highly valued by
him. 3 When the centurion[b] heard about Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come
and heal his servant. 4 And when they came to Jesus, they pleaded with him earnestly, saying, “He is
worthy to have you do this for him, 5 for he loves our nation, and he is the one who built us our
synagogue.” 6 And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent
friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my
roof.7 Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be
healed. 8 For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he
goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9 When Jesus
heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you,
not even in Israel have I found such faith.” 10 And when those who had been sent returned to the
house, they found the servant well.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
56
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #6
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that I will forgive whomever it is that hurt me.
Lord Jesus, be with my family. Grant us Your peace and harmony, an end to conflict and division. Teach
us to forgive, as you have forgiven us. Help us to have compassion for one another and to let go of any
anger we might have. In Jesus’ name, Amen
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading: (Ephesians 4:32 , NLT)
“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave
you.”
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What makes it so hard to forgive?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Forgiveness is the starting point in restoring relational harmony—there are no enduring relationships
without it. Truly forgiving means you’ve released someone from the debt they incurred when they hurt
you. But forgiveness goes both ways, and we need to seek it as well as grant it.
It’s important to be intentional about pursuing forgiveness—and it may be harder to ask someone to
forgive you than it is to forgive them. We’re not talking about a quick “sorry.” That has nothing to do
with requesting forgiveness; it’s just telling someone how you feel and not really giving them a chance
to respond.
The most effective (and sometimes fear producing) way to gain forgiveness is to actually ask for it.
Admit what you did wrong and then say only, “Will you forgive me?” And stop there. It’s not “If I did
something wrong” (you know you did), or “I didn’t mean to,” which excuses what you did. Nor is it, “I
know you got hurt,” which subtly shifts the blame on them for being too sensitive.
True forgiveness is sought with simply, “I was wrong. I have no excuse. Will you forgive me?”
Why is this so scary? Because we instinctively try to avoid putting ourselves in a vulnerable position.
We’re terrified of the moment when someone we love could look us in the eye and say, “No, I don’t
forgive you.” That response might be as painful as the hurt we caused them. But that’s the reality of
forgiveness—we have to give it, ask for it, and accept that it involves the potential for pain.
Jesus is clear that we’re to take responsibility for the relational conflict we’ve caused. “First, be
reconciled.” How can we approach the Lord when we’ve neglected the brokenness between ourselves
and others? God doesn’t receive our worship if He knows we have no intention of loving those closest
to us. We can fool others; we can’t fool Him. (Author: James MacDonald)
57
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Matthew 6: 9-15, NIV)
9 "This, then, is how you should pray: " 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your
kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us today our daily
bread. 12 Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. ' 14 For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your
heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not
forgive your sins.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
58
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #7:
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I declare that my family will walk in victory. I declare that no weapon formed against us shall prosper.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Isaiah 54: 17, KJV)
No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tonguethat shall rise against thee in
judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their
righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What areas in your life do you need to see victory? Do you realize that NOTHING is too hard for God?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
In Hebrew, weapon refers to any tool or utensil used against a person. A weapon is anything that could
be used against you for evil intent. “No weapon formed against you shall prosper,” the Lord says.
Nothing built, sharpened, aimed at, or fired against you, your family, your church family, God’s
kingdom, or God’s people will succeed. Though your enemies may seem to win for a while—a job may
be eliminated, a child may wander far, a life may even be lost—in the end, even these tragedies will be
enfolded in God’s agenda for prospering those who are truly His. Why is this true? The reason “no
weapon formed against you shall prosper” is not because you are a fierce warrior, but because He
is. “One man of you puts to flight a thousand, since it is the LORD your God who fights for you, just
as he promised you” (Joshua 23:10, ESV). Could you single-handedly chase away a thousand soldiers?
No, but God can—and it is He who fights for you. He is the Defender of His children.
Isaiah assures us our enemies’ weapons will not prosper. That word is translated succeed in ESV
and prevail in NIV, and the concept gives us hope. No assault will be final. Even if it appears to be
prospering, it’s not done yet. Even if it wins the battle, it won’t win the war. God takes it very seriously
when someone opposes or attacks the ones He loves.
Just as their weapons will not win, neither will their words: “And every tongue which rises against you
in judgment You shall condemn.”
Savor this truth: God always wins! Romans 16:20 previews the final round: “The God of peace will
soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.”
And because He wins, so will you. You get to share in His victories. “This is the heritage of the servants
of the LORD.” As you face the weapons and words of your enemies, as you engage in the battles of life,
set your heart and hope on the final outcome. It’s going to end well for you. Guaranteed. (Author:
Walk In The Word)
59
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Joshua 6: 1-20, NKJV)
Now Jericho was securely shut up because of the children of Israel; none went out, and none came
in. 2 And the LORD said to Joshua: “See! I have given Jericho into your hand, its king, and the mighty
men of valor. 3 You shall march around the city, all you men of war; you shall go all around the city
once. This you shall do six days. 4 And seven priests shall bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the
ark. But the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the
trumpets. 5 It shall come to pass, when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when you hear
the sound of the trumpet, that all the people shall shout with a great shout; then the wall of the city
will fall down flat. And the people shall go up every man straight before him.”
6
Then Joshua the son of Nun called the priests and said to them, “Take up the ark of the covenant, and
let seven priests bear seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the LORD.” 7 And he said to the
people, “Proceed, and march around the city, and let him who is armed advance before the ark of
the LORD.”
8
So it was, when Joshua had spoken to the people, that the seven priests bearing the seven trumpets
of rams’ horns before the LORD advanced and blew the trumpets, and the ark of the covenant of
the LORD followed them. 9 The armed men went before the priests who blew the trumpets, and the
rear guard came after the ark, while the priests continued blowing the trumpets. 10 Now Joshua had
commanded the people, saying, “You shall not shout or make any noise with your voice, nor shall a
word proceed out of your mouth, until the day I say to you, ‘Shout!’ Then you shall shout.” 11 So he had
the ark of the LORD circle the city, going around it once. Then they came into the camp and lodged in
the camp.
12
And Joshua rose early in the morning, and the priests took up the ark of the LORD. 13 Then seven
priests bearing seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the LORD went on continually and blew
with the trumpets. And the armed men went before them. But the rear guard came after the ark of
the LORD, while the priests continued blowing the trumpets. 14 And the second day they marched
around the city once and returned to the camp. So they did six days.
15
But it came to pass on the seventh day that they rose early, about the dawning of the day, and
marched around the city seven times in the same manner. On that day only they marched around the
city seven times. 16 And the seventh time it happened, when the priests blew the trumpets, that Joshua
said to the people: “Shout, for the LORD has given you the city! 17 Now the city shall be doomed by
the LORD to destruction, it and all who are in it. Only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all
who are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent. 18 And you, by all means
abstain from the accursed things, lest you become accursed when you take of the accursed things, and
make the camp of Israel a curse, and trouble it. 19 But all the silver and gold, and vessels of bronze and
iron, are consecrated to the LORD; they shall come into the treasury of the LORD.”
20
So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets. And it happened when the people heard
the sound of the trumpet, and the people shouted with a great shout, that the wall fell down flat. Then
the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
60
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Week #5: The Blessing of The Church
Day #1
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Lord, Bless Your Church. Lord, Bless Our Church.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Matthew 16: 18, NKJV)
And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades
shall not prevail against it.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Have You Become Passive In Your Love for the Global Church and the Local Church? Are you able to
consistently remember that you apart of a centuries old, but still relevant movement that Jesus himself
created?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
God loves The Church and Jesus died for the church! And, without a doubt, God wants you to love your
church too!
As Dr. Tony Evans writes,
“The church, and only the church, has been commissioned by the sovereign Lord to be His
representative agency in history. It has been given sole authority to unlock the treasures of the
spiritual realm so that they can be brought to bear on the realities of the earth.
Thus, as the church goes, so goes everything else. God designed the church to be the epicenter
of culture, and the church’s strength or weakness is a major determining factor in the success
or failure of human civilization. When the church is strong, the culture is impacted positively –
even if the “powers that be” in a particular place don’t realize that impact and seek to
marginalize and persecute the church. But when the church is weak, its’ influence deteriorates
and so does the culture.
The church is a part of God’s plan and involves God’s program to positively impact the world…”
Now a lot of Christians don't love the church. And maybe you don't love the church because you got
wounded. "I can't even tell you how I was treated, and what people said about me." Church-induced
injuries are devastating. But the same God that called you into salvation is the same God who will call
you to restoration and give you fresh eyes and fresh love for His bride – the local church.
The church is the bride of Christ. We belong to Him, and He loves us. In fact, the apostle Paul used that
analogy in Ephesians 5 when he wrote, "For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved
the church. He gave up his life for her to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God's
61
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
word" (verses 25–26). It is popular today to criticize the church. But understand this: When you insult
the church, you are speaking critically of someone whom Jesus loves.
Paul loved to be around others Christians and he often expressed his love in many of his letters.
Reading his letter to the Philippians gives you the impression that there was something special
between them. Paul tells us that in every remembrance of them, he gave joyful thanks to
God. (Philippians 1:3) (Philippians 1: 7, 8; 2:19; 4:1, 10, 18). It’s that same love that you’re invited to
have for the church. Today, you’re invited to fall in love all over again with God’s bride – The Church!
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Acts 2: 37-47, NKJV)
37
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles,
“Men and brethren, what shall we do?”
38
Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ
for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 For the promise is to you
and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
40
And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse
generation.” 41 Then those who gladly[a] received his word were baptized; and that day about three
thousand souls were added to them. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and
fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many
wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all
things in common, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had
need.
46
So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate
their food with gladness and simplicity of heart,47 praising God and having favor with all the people.
And the Lord added to the church[b] daily those who were being saved.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
62
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #2
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Declare That Revival and Renewal Will Hit The Church Like Never Before!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Acts 2: 16-17, NLT / Malachi 1: 11, NIV)
16
No, what you see was predicted long ago by the prophet Joel:
17
‘In the last days,’ God says,
‘I will pour out my Spirit upon all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy.
Your young men will see visions,
and your old men will dream dreams.
(Malachi 1: 11, NIV)
My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place
incense and pure offerings will be brought to me, because my name will be great among the nations,”
says the LORD Almighty.
11
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What Would It Look Like For Everyone That You Know Personally To Be Radically On Fire To Pursue
God's Plan for Evangelism & Discipleship?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Have you ever prayed for something over and over again, year in and year out, but God has not
answered yet? I hope you can answer yes, because if you say no, it only shows that you are not a
praying person. If you pray, you have prayed for things that God has not yet answered.
One unanswered prayer that every committed Christian should be praying is that God would send
revival to our country. It is as of yet unanswered because nothing that is being described as revival
today even comes close to the many examples of true revival that God has sent in times past. True
revival is not a matter of hanging a banner in front of the church that announces, “Revival This Week,
7pm” True revival is not a superficial, emotional response that results in a temporary experience, but
no long-term fruit of righteousness.
True revival is when the living God sovereignly and powerfully breaks into human history with the good
news of His salvation. It invariably begins with his people coming under deep conviction of sin and
turning from that sin in genuine repentance. It always involves a recovery of biblical truth, especially
the truth about how sinners are reconciled to a holy God. Therefore, it also involves a recovery of the
centrality and authority of God’s word over all of life. The renewed sense of God’s presence, power,
holiness, and truth then inevitably spills out of the church and into the world, resulting in many
genuine conversions.
63
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
When God sends revival, He also sends great joy. The angel announced to Zacharias that he would
have joy and gladness at John’s birth, and that many would rejoice (1:14). They were not just rejoicing
at the birth of the child, but at what this child would bring – good news of a great joy for all people, the
news of the Savior (John 1: 19, 2:10).
We hope you are convicted and renewed in your passion to see, sense, and experience revival in our
church and in our land. It’ll touch every person, house, business, government entity, and nation.
(Author: Steven J. Cole)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Acts 19: 1-11, NIV)
While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he
found some disciples 2 and asked them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when[a] you believed?”
They answered, “No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.”
3
So Paul asked, “Then what baptism did you receive?”
“John’s baptism,” they replied.
4
Paul said, “John’s baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one
coming after him, that is, in Jesus.” 5 On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord
Jesus. 6 When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in
tongues[b] and prophesied. 7 There were about twelve men in all.
8
Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the
kingdom of God. 9 But some of them became obstinate; they refused to believe and publicly maligned
the Way. So Paul left them. He took the disciples with him and had discussions daily in the lecture hall
of Tyrannus. 10 This went on for two years, so that all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of
Asia heard the word of the Lord.
11
God did extraordinary miracles through Paul,
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
64
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #3
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
My Pastor and Church Leaders Are Covered, Blessed, and Fruitful in Every Good Work.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (1 Timothy 2: 1-4, NKJV)
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made
for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all
godliness and reverence. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires
all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Have You Ever Paused to Consider the Spiritual, Mental, and Emotional Weight and Responsibility That
Pastors, Ministers, and Ministry Leaders Are Expected To Work Under?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
No Devotional Today. Take time to write the names of Pastors, Ministers, and Ministry Leaders and
Workers who you’d like to cover in prayer today.
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Isaiah 11: 2, NLT)
Pray that your pastor would be given the knowledge to counsel and mentor, the wisdom to confront
when necessary, and discernment when seeking God’s leading and direction for the church. In
particular, pray (Isaiah 11:2 NLT) that “the Spirit of the Lord will rest on him, the Spirit of wisdom and
understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, and the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
65
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #4
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Declare That the Local and Global Church Is United – Of One Faith, One Mission, and One Focus.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (1 Corinthians 1: 10, NLT / Ephesians 4: 3-7, NLT)
10
I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters,[a] by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in
harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in
thought and purpose.
(Ephesians 4: 3-7, NLT)
3
Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with
peace. 4 For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the
future.
5
There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism,
6
one God and Father of all,
who is over all, in all, and living through all.
7
However, he has given each one of us a special gift[a] through the generosity of Christ.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What are the possible solutions that could be reached when God’s church(es) are united? Make a list
and then pray for God’s will to be done.
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Three times Jesus prays for the unity of the church (Reference John 17: 20-23). What is this unity?
There is an effort that has been going on for some time to bring about a union of believers, to unite
them in one great worldwide church or some organization. We are told that this will at last be the
answer to this prayer of Jesus. But I find it impossible to accept that explanation. I do not believe that
the church has to wait twenty-one centuries before the prayer of Jesus is answered or that an
organization will accomplish what the Holy Spirit (seemingly) has been unable to do. I believe that the
Holy Spirit has been answering this prayer from the very beginning, and when we understand the
nature of the unity for which Jesus prayed, we will see that the prayer is indeed being answered and
has been all along.
What is the nature of that unity? Several things in this passage give us a clue. The first is in verse 21-that all of them may be one. What does this all mean? If you look back in verse 20 you will see that
Jesus prays, not for them alone. Who are them? The apostles, the eleven for whom he has been
praying in the previous section. He continues, but also for those who are to believe in him through the
apostolic witness--the great body of Christians around the world and through the centuries. These two
groups, He now says, are all to be joined together, that all of them may be one. In other words, the
unity of the church is a unity with the apostles. And since the primary task of the apostles was to give
66
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
us the truth about Jesus, this unity is that of shared truth--one faith delivered unto the saints, one set
of beliefs about Jesus given by the apostles. Thus, the basis of unity in the body of Christ is the unity of
shared truth.
Another aspect of unity is found in the words, I in them and you in me. May they be brought to
complete unity. That is the glory of a shared life. Jesus in us, the Father in Him, and thus, in the
remarkable words of Peter, we may participate in the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). Do you ever think of
yourself as linked with the life of God--so much so that you cannot be known or understood apart from
that life? The understanding of that is what produces unity among believers. Here is what Jesus is
praying--that we may understand the sharing of truth, the sharing of power, and the sharing of life,
and that we may be one.
What is the purpose of this unity? Twice our Lord tells us--once in verse 21: so that the world may
believe that you have sent me, and again in verse 23: to let the world know that you sent me and have
loved them even as you have loved me. When the church begins to demonstrate the unity of faith, the
unity of shared truth, shared power, and shared life, the world is hit by an inescapable impression that
Jesus is Lord, that He indeed holds the key to history and to reality, that He is indeed the revelation of
the invisible God. (Author: Ray Stedman)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (John 17: 1-26, NLT)
After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify
your Son so he can give glory back to you. 2 For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives
eternal life to each one you have given him. 3 And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the
only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. 4 I brought glory to you here on earth by
completing the work you gave me to do. 5 Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the
world began.
6
“I have revealed you[a] to the ones you gave me from this world. They were always yours. You gave
them to me, and they have kept your word. 7 Now they know that everything I have is a gift from
you, 8 for I have passed on to them the message you gave me. They accepted it and know that I came
from you, and they believe you sent me.
9
“My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you. 10 All
who are mine belong to you, and you have given them to me, so they bring me glory. 11 Now I am
departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have
given me your name;[b] now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as
we are. 12 During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me.[c] I guarded
them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.
13
“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would
be filled with my joy. 14 I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not
belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. 15 I’m not asking you to take them out of the
world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. 16 They do not belong to this world any more than I
do. 17 Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. 18 Just as you sent me into
the world, I am sending them into the world. 19 And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they
can be made holy by your truth.
67
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
20
“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their
message. 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am
in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.
22
“I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. 23 I am in them and you
are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that
you love them as much as you love me. 24 Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me
where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world
began!
25
“O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I do; and these disciples know you sent me. 26 I
have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I
will be in them.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
68
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #5
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Today, I Declare that The Enemies of God’s Church Are Defeated!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Psalm 2: 1-11, NIV)
1
Why do the nations conspire[a]
and the peoples plot in vain?
2
The kings of the earth rise up
and the rulers band together
against the LORD and against his anointed, saying,
3
“Let us break their chains
and throw off their shackles.”
4
The One enthroned in heaven laughs;
the Lord scoffs at them.
5
He rebukes them in his anger
and terrifies them in his wrath, saying,
6
“I have installed my king
on Zion, my holy mountain.”
7
I will proclaim the LORD’s decree:
He said to me, “You are my son;
today I have become your father.
8
Ask me,
and I will make the nations your inheritance,
the ends of the earth your possession.
9
You will break them with a rod of iron[b];
you will dash them to pieces like pottery.”
10
Therefore, you kings, be wise;
be warned, you rulers of the earth.
11
Serve the LORD with fear
and celebrate his rule with trembling.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Rather than having a heart filled with hate, what would it look like if the Global Church were to
authentically pray for the enemies of God's Church and Work? Are we prepared to forgive and work
with those who once opposed God and may become converted? (Consider the work of the Apostle
Paul...)
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Choosing to love and pray for those who persecute or mistreat us mystifies unbelievers, and yet this is
the lifestyle to which we are called by God. We are to love all people regardless of how they treat us.
Although some may set themselves up as enemies against us, they are people in need of a saving
69
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
relationship with Jesus and an understanding of His Lordship in their lives. The Word of God instructs
us to love them, praying that they might enter into His kingdom! Before reading any further, bring
someone to mind whom you would consider to be your enemy. Have your family members do the
same. Read, study, apply and pray the truths from God’s Word that your enemies might be drawn to
Jesus’ kingdom.
Scripture states that our chief enemy is Satan. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but
against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the
spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12). Therefore, we should recognize that
behind our flesh and blood enemies ultimately Satan is at work.
The Apostle Paul probably understood this concept more fully than any of the disciples or other
believers. At one time, he persecuted the followers of Jesus, even casting his vote to have many put to
death while he watched in approval. A case could certainly be made that Paul considered all believers
to be his enemies and vice versa. But when God got Paul’s attention on the road to Damascus, which
ultimately led to his salvation through Jesus, he grasped for the first time, the mercy of the Lord. He
understood that the followers of Jesus were not his enemies, as God gave him tremendous insight
about his real enemy--Satan.
Paul went from being an enemy of God to a child of God through a personal encounter with Jesus. It is
also important to remember that, like Paul, each of us was at one time an enemy of God. Because we
have experienced the mercy of God, should we not also extend it to others?
Jesus had enemies…and they crucified Him. Yet, as we know, He had the ultimate victory in the end.
But because God loved the world so much that He sent Jesus to die, His Son did not leave the earth
without praying for those who were responsible for His death. Jesus, who told us to love and pray for
our enemies, demonstrated the ultimate gift of love while hanging on the cross: "Father, forgive them,
for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34a). Jesus prayed for His enemies…how can we
do less? (Author: Kim Butts)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Acts 9: 1-31, NIV)
Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the
high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there
who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.3 As
he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the
ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5
“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be
told what you must do.”
7
The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see
anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led
him by the hand into Damascus. 9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
70
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
10
In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11
The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named
Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands
on him to restore his sight.”
13
“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done
to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to
arrest all who call on your name.”
15
But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the
Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my
name.”
17
Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the
Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may
see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes,
and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his
strength.
Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20 At once he began to preach in the
synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21 All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t
he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come
here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” 22 Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and
baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.
23
After many days had gone by, there was a conspiracy among the Jews to kill him, 24 but Saul learned
of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. 25 But his
followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.
26
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not
believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He
told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in
Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved
about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord. 29 He talked and debated with the
Hellenistic Jews,[a] but they tried to kill him.30 When the believers learned of this, they took him down
to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.
31
Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was
strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
71
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #6
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Thank you God That You Are Sending Workers That Have the Right Heart and Right Spirit To Support
The Church And Your Work. They are both faithful and fruitful. Thank you Lord that I am committed to
being a part of these workers.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Luke 10: 2, ESV)
2
And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to
the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What Gifts, Talents, and Passions Do You Have That Your Church Doesn't Know About? Have You
Offered Yourself Fully To Your Church?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Billy Graham said, "The evangelistic harvest is always urgent. The destiny of men and of nations is
always being decided. Every generation is crucial; every generation is strategic. But we are not
responsible for the past generation, and we cannot bear full responsibility for the next one. However,
we have our generation! God will hold us responsible. . . ."
We see this principle at work all the way back to the book of Acts, where the baton was passed by
Peter and Paul to the next generation, who passed it to the next, who passed it to the next, and so
forth.
Jesus has commissioned us to go and make disciples of all the nations (see Matthew 28:18–20). But
here is the problem: the harvest is great, but the laborers are few. Many times, instead of being out in
the field, the laborers are asleep. Proverbs 10:5 says, "He who gathers in summer is a wise son; he who
sleeps in harvest is a son who causes shame." This certainly applies to going out and harvesting crops
and being a hard worker, but in principle, we can apply it to harvesting souls as well.
Sometimes one of the reasons we are sleeping in harvest is because we are well-fed. We are focused
on the next meal, the next Bible study, the next message. We are always taking in, but we think very
little of giving out. If we live that way, then we run the danger of ending up spiritually obese.
We have our generation to reach, but let's personalize that. You have your sphere of influence: your
circle of friends, your neighbors, your coworkers, and your family.
So here is my question for you: Are you a wise son or daughter who is out in the field? Or, are you
sleeping during the harvest? (Author: Greg Laurie)
72
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Acts 8: 26-40, NIV)
26
Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down
from Jerusalem to Gaza.” 27 So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian[a] eunuch, an
important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”).
This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading
the Book of Isaiah the prophet. 29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”
30
Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand
what you are reading?” Philip asked.
31
“How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit
with him.
32
This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading:
“He was led like a sheep to the slaughter,
and as a lamb before its shearer is silent,
so he did not open his mouth.
33
In his humiliation he was deprived of justice.
Who can speak of his descendants?
For his life was taken from the earth.”[b]
34
The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone
else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
36
As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water.
What can stand in the way of my being baptized?”[37] [c] 38 And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then
both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39 When they came up
out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him
again, but went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about,
preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
73
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #7
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Declare That The Church Has A Voice That The World Listens To and An Influence That Culture
Respects!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Acts 1: 8, NIV)
8
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in
Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Are You Willing To Offer Yourself To Share The Gospel?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and
whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. (reference Matthew 20:26-27)
Missions. Most people hear the word and immediately think of a dirty faced child sitting in a mud hut
somewhere halfway around the world with no food to eat. Mission is about mud huts and starving
children, but it is so much more.
It is walking across the street to meet with an elderly neighbor or taking a casserole to a new
mom. Missions is coaching that little league baseball team and encouraging children, letting them
know that they matter. It is driving to the hurricane ransacked areas of Louisiana and Texas and
helping people rebuild their homes and their lives.
In Acts 1:8 Jesus says, “but you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you
shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part
of the earth." If you read that verse carefully, you’ll notice the word “or” is not found; however, the
word “and” is found four times. The word “and” means also, in addition to.
We are called to minister to the children in mud huts in Africa and those who haven’t heard the name
of Jesus in the Middle East. Romans 10:14 says “How then shall they call upon Him in whom they have
not believed? And how shall they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear
without a preacher?” We have to go to the remotest part of the earth. But we also have to remember
Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria.
Our Jerusalem is those closest to us, our family. Our Judea is our city or town that we live in, the
people you work with, go to school with, and encounter in the marketplace. And our Samaria is made
up of the cities, towns or states close to us…the United States of America. We are not called to minister
only to one area. We are called to minister everywhere we go, from our very own households to as far
as the Lord will allow us to travel.
74
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus is very specific in the command He gave us.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the
Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you
always, even to the end of the age."
“All nations” includes the one across the street and the one across the sea. We need to recognize
everywhere we go is our mission field.
In Isaiah 6:8, Isaiah overhears the Lord talking, asking “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah raised his hand and
replied, “Here am I. Send me!” Will you? (Author: Susan Norris)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (John 4: 39-42, NIV)
39
Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told
me everything I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them,
and he stayed two days. 41 And because of his words many more became believers.
42
They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard
for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
75
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Week #6 PRAISE
Day #1
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Today, Lord, thank you for the freedom to praise you with my whole heart!
God, I humbly fall to my knees and praise YOU TODAY. Show me where I am resisting Your Freedom.
Do not let me take advantage of your mercy by resting in sin. I want to be Holy and pleasing in your
sight. In Jesus name Amen.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 3:17
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
When was the last time that you let loose of any restraints to praise God with your whole self?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Picture this ... you spend time in prayer, praising and worshiping God. Your quiet time finished, you
head out the door. On the way to work, a driver in a rush pulls out in front of you. You glare at the
errant driver and mutter unkind words. During the morning at work, you find yourself listening intently
to the latest office gossip. You meet a friend for lunch at a nearby restaurant. Getting your meal takes
longer than expected and you blame it on the server, who is obviously new. Instead of encouraging the
server, you show your impatience and leave a poor tip. And so on throughout the day. Obviously your
attitude of praise uttered in the morning did not prevail in the day's activities. (Author: Dr. Mike
Chapman)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (2 Samuel 6: 12-16, ESV)
12
And it was told King David, “The LORD has blessed the household of Obed-edom and all that belongs
to him, because of the ark of God.” So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of
Obed-edom to the city of David with rejoicing. 13 And when those who bore the ark of the LORD had
gone six steps, he sacrificed an ox and a fattened animal. 14 And David danced before the LORD with all
his might. And David was wearing a linen ephod. 15 So David and all the house of Israel brought up the
ark of the LORD with shouting and with the sound of the horn.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
76
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #2
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I Declare That I Will Praise More Than Complain!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (I Corinthians 4:20, NLT)
For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God’s power.”
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
What ways do you need to slow down enough to ensure that there is more praise that comes from
your mouth than unfruitful talk?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
We do a lot of talking. We talk about change. We talk on social media. We rally. We complain and
engage in heated discussions. Sure, our world has problems and challenges. Our communities have its
issues. And we are busy talking about it all! We have talk shows, news shows with talking. We have
talk radio. Our smart phones give us ready access to all of the talk. The truth is that talk alone won’t
change anything. And if nothing changes, nothing changes. The New Testament Church exploded
because it was more than talk. They had their share of problems and challenges. Their homes were
challenges, communities in upheaval. There was mistrust of government and the church at points had
its issues. But it was action coupled with authentic, powerful praise that brought change. The early
Christians tapped into the power of God and it was God’s power that was working through His people.
God’s power to heal the hurting , God’s power to answer prayers, God’s power to change people, and
God’s power to give boldness and strength even in the face of persecution. God’s power is available to
us as well. We serve the same God and He is on the same mission, to love the world through His
church. Today might our hearts cry be, “Lord helps us live by your power!”
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Psalm 150: 1-6, NKJV)
Praise the LORD!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
2
Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!
3
Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet;
Praise Him with the lute and harp!
4
Praise Him with the timbrel and dance;
Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes!
5
Praise Him with loud cymbals;
Praise Him with clashing cymbals!
77
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
6
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD!
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
78
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #3
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Praise will be my priority! I will start every day with a song of praise.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NLT)
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ
Jesus.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Have you ever found yourself more excited about something tangible and non-spiritual than for the
mere opportunity to offer God praise and thanksgiving?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
When our praise for God is genuine, we are expressing the overflow of our hearts and sharing good
things about our God. We are telling or writing or in some other way (music, dance, and art) expressing
a clear message about who God is and/or what He has done. Our praise can be part of a testimony of
what God has done and is doing in our lives. Praise can be one brief statement, or it can be a more
lengthy expression. We are sharing with others the news that God is good and at the same time telling
Him that we know He is good. We do need to be careful about expressing praise only when something
happens that we are happy about. God is good ALL the time, He is worthy of our praise!
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Psalm 100: 1-5, NKJV)
Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands!
2
Serve the LORD with gladness;
Come before His presence with singing.
3
Know that the LORD, He is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;[a]
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
4
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
5
For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting,
And His truth endures to all generations.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
79
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #4
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I will worship God, in truth, with ALL of my heart and mind!
Father cleanse our hearts and our lives with your Holy Word and make our praise pleasing to your ears
in Jesus name AMEN
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Psalm 9:1-2, NLT)
I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in
you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Is there anything in your heart or mind that could limit the authenticity of your praise and gratitude to
God?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
Praise is necessary for the heart of every Christian even when we are feeling down, disappointed, or
crushed by grief. In the midst of our deepest valleys, we still recognize that God’s goodness and
faithfulness are praiseworthy. Because our praise opens the courts of the Lord, He will meet us there.
When we are willing to give to God the sacrifice of praise, knowing that He is good and merciful even in
the midst of our trial or sufferings, we give Him an opportunity to minister peace and comfort to our
hearts. No matter what is happening in our lives, our God is worth of praise.
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Psalm 92: 1-15, NKJV)
It is good to give thanks to the LORD,
And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High;
2
To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning,
And Your faithfulness every night,
3
On an instrument of ten strings,
On the lute,
And on the harp,
With harmonious sound.
4
For You, LORD, have made me glad through Your work;
I will triumph in the works of Your hands.
5
O LORD, how great are Your works!
Your thoughts are very deep.
6
A senseless man does not know,
Nor does a fool understand this.
7
When the wicked spring up like grass,
80
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
And when all the workers of iniquity flourish,
It is that they may be destroyed forever.
8
But You, LORD, are on high forevermore.
9
For behold, Your enemies, O LORD,
For behold, Your enemies shall perish;
All the workers of iniquity shall be scattered.
10
But my horn You have exalted like a wild ox;
I have been anointed with fresh oil.
11
My eye also has seen my desire on my enemies;
My ears hear my desire on the wicked
Who rise up against me.
12
The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree,
He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.
13
Those who are planted in the house of the LORD
Shall flourish in the courts of our God.
14
They shall still bear fruit in old age;
They shall be fresh and flourishing,
15
To declare that the LORD is upright;
He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
81
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #5
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
I will offer a Pre-Praise Before God Answers My Prayer!
Lord, teach me the value of praying in advance. Remind me often that my prayers are never wasted or
cast aside, and that you tenderly treasure them in heaven. Give me the faith I need to praise you in
advance for the things you put on my heart. Thank You that as I partnership with you in prayer, your
blessings will be there to meet me in the days to come In Jesus name Amen.
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Psalm 24:8-10, NLT)
Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, you
gates; lift them up, you ancient doors, that the King of glory may come in. Who is he, this King of glory?
The Lord Almighty, he is the King of glory.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
Have you grown in your relationship with God enough that your praise is unconditional?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
I saw faith in action as I watched the game show, “The Price Is Right.” When the announcer would call
someone’s name as the next contestant, the person called would immediately celebrate. The
individual called on stage whose bid was closest to the actual retail price didn’t just “stroll” to the
platform, but they celebrated as they went up to stand beside Drew Carey. When the announcer
showed this lady a new car that she’d be playing to win, she screamed and shouted as if she’d already
won it! The contestants on, “The Price Is Right” PRAISED IN ADVANCE as if what they wanted was
already theirs.
These contestants give us a benchmark for where our faith, focus, prayer, and praise needs to rise to.
(Author: Calvin Lockett)
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (1 Chronicles 4: 9-10, NKJV)
9
Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name Jabez, [a] saying,
“Because I bore him in pain.” 10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless
me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would
keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
82
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #6
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
My praise brings PROTECTION!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Psalm 5:11, NLT)
But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them
that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
Heavenly Father I praise and thank you for all YOU have given me. Please cover me with the protective,
precious blood of Your Son Jesus Christ. Increase Your Holy Spirit in me with His gifts of wisdom,
knowledge, and understanding in Jesus name Amen.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
In what areas have you been afraid, that should praise God for his protection and provision?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
In the benefits package of salvation, comes God’s promise of protection. There is scripture and
promise after promise that assures us of God’s protection. God also gives us assurances of additional
blessings as we praise Him. When we praise God, He honors us as His children, and provides His loving
protection (2 Sam. 22:47-51). Failure to praise God, however, can sometimes leave us out of fellowship
with God and out of His divine protection (1 Samuel 2:27-32). It is important to invite God to dispatch
his angels and protection that allows us to conduct our daily affairs, provide peace for our properties,
covering for our loved ones, safety for our belongings, and peace of mind that rests in his promises. As
you have become employed by God and His Kingdom, rest assured that his insurance policy is good!
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Psalm 91: 1-16, NKJV)
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
2
I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress;
My God, in Him I will trust.”
3
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler[a]
And from the perilous pestilence.
4
He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler.
5
You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,
Nor of the arrow that flies by day,
6
Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness,
Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
83
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
7
A thousand may fall at your side,
And ten thousand at your right hand;
But it shall not come near you.
8
Only with your eyes shall you look,
And see the reward of the wicked.
9
Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge,
Even the Most High, your dwelling place,
10
No evil shall befall you,
Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;
11
For He shall give His angels charge over you,
To keep you in all your ways.
12
In their hands they shall bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.
13
You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra,
The young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.
14
“Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;
I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
15
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will deliver him and honor him.
16
With long life I will satisfy him,
And show him My salvation.”
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
84
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Day #7
Prayer Time #1: Declaration / Confession
Praise is now my lifestyle!
Prayer Time #2: Scripture Reading (Romans 12: 1-2, NIV)
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living
sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the
pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test
and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Prayer Time #3: Question To Ponder
How can you build time in your schedule to intentionally reflect on areas that you should be
celebrating (not complaining) and offering thanksgiving?
Prayer Time #4: Devotional & Worship Time
You can see a graphic example of the importance of praise being a lifestyle in 2 Chronicles 20. When
something is your lifestyle, it becomes a part of what you do in your routine. Behaviors in in your
lifestyle gets intertwined in your time, resources, and thought processes. It isn’t an inconvenience, as
it reflects a priority. Athletes don’t view practice and working out as an inconvenience. Law
enforcement and military personnel don’t view training as an interruption. Chefs and Restaurant
Owners don’t view shopping as frustrating, because they understand it is necessary to conduct
business and offer culinary creations for their customers. Children of God should not view praise as a
chore, inconvenience, problem, or an interruption. It is what we do! There, the Bible tells us that
a multitude of forces was marching against Israel. The army of Israel was so outnumbered; they
literally didn't know what to do. So they fasted and prayed until they received a word from God. "Be
not afraid or dismayed at this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's" (2 Chronicle
20:15, The Amplified Bible).
Do you know what they did in response to that word? They put together a praise choir! That's right.
They appointed singers and praisers and sent them out in front of the army! And when that choir
began to sing, the Word tells us that "the Lord set ambushments against the men...who had come
against Judah, and they were [self-] slaughtered" (verse 22).
When it was all over, not one Israelite had fallen—and not one of their enemies had escaped. What's
more, when they came to take the spoil, they found so many cattle, goods, garments and other
precious things; it took them three whole days to haul it all home.
Prayer Time #5: Silent Time With God (5-10 minutes)
85
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
Prayer Time #6: Scripture Reading (Acts 16: 16-40, NIV)
16
Once when we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a female slave who had a spirit by
which she predicted the future. She earned a great deal of money for her owners by fortunetelling. 17 She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, “These men are servants of the Most High
God, who are telling you the way to be saved.” 18 She kept this up for many days. Finally Paul became
so annoyed that he turned around and said to the spirit, “In the name of Jesus Christ I command you to
come out of her!” At that moment the spirit left her.
19
When her owners realized that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and
dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities. 20 They brought them before the
magistrates and said, “These men are Jews, and are throwing our city into an uproar 21 by advocating
customs unlawful for us Romans to accept or practice.”
22
The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be
stripped and beaten with rods. 23 After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison,
and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. 24 When he received these orders, he put them
in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.
25
About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were
listening to them. 26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison
were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. 27 The jailer
woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself
because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all
here!”
29
The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30 He then brought them
out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?”
31
They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” 32 Then
they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house. 33 At that hour of the
night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his household were
baptized. 34 The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy
because he had come to believe in God—he and his whole household.
35
When it was daylight, the magistrates sent their officers to the jailer with the order: “Release those
men.” 36 The jailer told Paul, “The magistrates have ordered that you and Silas be released. Now you
can leave. Go in peace.”
37
But Paul said to the officers: “They beat us publicly without a trial, even though we are Roman
citizens, and threw us into prison. And now do they want to get rid of us quietly? No! Let them come
themselves and escort us out.”
38
The officers reported this to the magistrates, and when they heard that Paul and Silas were Roman
citizens, they were alarmed. 39 They came to appease them and escorted them from the prison,
requesting them to leave the city.40 After Paul and Silas came out of the prison, they went to Lydia’s
house,where they met with the brothers and sisters and encouraged them. Then they left.
Prayer Time #7: Individual Prayer Time
86
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide
1 Thessalonians 5: 17
(NIV)
“…pray
continually,…”
87
40 Days Of Blessing – Prayer & Devotional Guide