Category: Today’s Word

James 5:13-18. Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. ¹⁴ Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. ¹⁵ And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. ¹⁶ Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. ¹⁷ Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. ¹⁸ Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

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Jesus proclaimed the gospel as He healed the sick. Therefore, the ultimate purpose of healing is not merely physical restoration but the revelation and fulfillment of the gospel.

For the beggar at the temple gate, a few coins might have helped him survive another day, and the miracle of healing—being restored from a lifelong disability—undoubtedly transformed his life. Yet the true purpose of his healing was not simply that he walked and jumped, but that he praised God (Acts 3:1–10). In other words, the healing served to reveal the glory of God and the power of salvation. That was the ultimate goal.

Healing exists in many religions because even demonic forces can perform signs. But the focus of the gospel is not physical healing itself. The foundation of our faith in the gospel is Christ—the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. The healing of the crippled man in Acts 3 was a direct fulfillment of the first gospel (or protoevangelium) promise:

“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” (Genesis 3:15)

This reveals that the gospel is the fulfillment of all Old Testament prophecy—not merely good news for the sick, but for all of fallen humanity.

Often, the proclamation of the gospel is accompanied by healing. However, it is God who heals—according to His will, power, and timing. He knows the needs of the sick far better than we do, and He alone brings true healing. Though the need for healing is great, we must remember that healing is not the end goal. While sickness is not God’s desire for people, the primary objective of faith is not simply to be made well, but to be united with Christ.

Scripture teaches that Jesus bore our diseases and carried our sorrows (Isaiah 53:6). His earthly ministry frequently involved healing the sick. After His resurrection, He gave His disciples authority and the promise of healing. He said to them,

“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” (Mark 16:15–18).

Likewise, the apostles and early believers ministered to the sick, bringing both healing and the gospel. Jesus worked with them in the ministry of healing from the throne:

“After the Lord Jesus had spoken to them, he was taken up into heaven and he sat at the right hand of God. Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it” (Mark 16:19-20).

Many illnesses are caused by physical factors—fatigue, infection, unhealthy habits, or aging—but Scripture reveals deeper causes of disease that cannot be healed through medicine alone. Some illnesses arise from sin—whether original sin, the sins of one’s parents, or personal wrongdoing—which can lead to physical affliction. Idolatry, for example, brings consequences that extend to the third and fourth generation (Exodus 20:4–5; 2 Samuel 12:15).

Others live under the influence of the devil, whose oppression brings suffering that no medical treatment can reach (Genesis 3:16–19; Acts 10:38). Still others suffer under spiritual bondage, such as demonic possession (Mark 5:2–15), mental torment (Mark 9:17; Luke 13:16), or deeply rooted emotional wounds (Matthew 12:25–28; Ephesians 4:23–27).

But, in some cases, God allows sickness to fulfill His sovereign plan, as seen in Daniel (Daniel 8:27), the man born blind (John 9:1–3), and Paul’s thorn in the flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7). Regarding the man born blind, Jesus said, “this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him” (John 9:3). To Paul, who earnestly prayed for the healing three times, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

When the source of affliction is spiritual, incorrect treatments can make things worse. Medical care alone cannot heal what is broken spiritually. Likewise, religious rituals, superstitions, or methods rooted in occult or demonic power can bring deeper harm.

Healing must begin at the spiritual level. One must first be healed in spirit (3 John 1:2), receiving Jesus as the Christ (John 1:12) and being filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). Through repentance and prayer, the grip of sin must be broken (James 5:13–16), and one’s environment must be cleansed of all spiritual influences that hinder faith (Matthew 12:25–29). Physical and mental healing should follow spiritual wholeness. Only after these steps should medical treatment be considered.

What follows after healing is just as important as the healing itself. One must continue in a life of faith, marked by thanksgiving and witnessing. This means being deeply imprinted with the gospel, firmly rooted in the Word, and enjoying prayer in all circumstances.

If you are a child of God and facing a severe illness, remember that your prayer, “the prayer of a righteous person,” is powerful and effective. (James 5:13–18). Enter into deep prayer, holding fast to the gospel until all your anxiety gives way to peace. Do not be consumed by worry, but instead experience the presence of God. “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7). God will raise you up as a witness of Christ to bring the message of healing to all nations.

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Prayer. Father, make today a day of healing. By the power of the gospel, heal my spirit, soul, mind, and body. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so I may testify to the healing of Christ to all people. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Matthew 6:33. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

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Since the Holy Spirit dwells in us, we no longer pray like unbelievers or those who follow empty religious practices, chasing after the things of the world. Instead, when we pray, we align our hearts with God’s desire—His kingdom and His righteousness. Our God-given mission ultimately finds its fulfillment in world evangelization—reaching 237 nations and 5,000 tribes.

When we seek the proclamation of the gospel in all circumstances, God promises to provide everything necessary to fulfill His covenant of world evangelization: “All these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). When every part of our live—family, work, studies, health, hopes, and dreams—is grounded in God’s plan of salvation, we will experience a life of true success.

If we fail to discover God’s will, we will be left vulnerable to doubt, anxiety, and self-reliance. Our hearts will lean on our own thoughts and experiences rather than His truth. But when we discover God’s plans in His Word, we will begin to see everything from His perspective.

God’s Word is living and active. It has the power to heal the disease of unbelief within us. Let the Word take root in your soul and steer the way you think and live. Since the Holy Spirit leads our lives, we don’t need to live in fear or anxiety. Our top priority is to seek His kingdom and His righteousness—and trust that He will take care of everything else.

Invite Jesus to the center of your life. Acknowledge Him in every area—your relationships, your time, your goals, and your decisions. Invest your life in what is eternal: the Triune God (Psalm 90:2), the Word (Isaiah 40:8), and those who came to Christ through you (1 Thessalonians 2:19). Be faithful with what God has already entrusted to you, even in the small things.

When you believed, you were born into God’s family. You were rescued from the power of darkness and brought into His kingdom. You now have access to His throne and hold the keys to the kingdom of heaven. You no longer belong to the world—you belong to heaven. So live today with confidence, knowing the privileges that come from your true identity and citizenship in Christ. Ask for the things above. Live with godly sorrow for the world. Place God and His kingdom first in all things.

And always remember: the foundation of your prayer is the name of Jesus. Don’t focus solely on receiving answers. The name of Jesus is your guarantee that God will provide what is best. Because you pray in the perfect name of Jesus Christ, you can trust Him completely with both the answers and the outcomes. Even when answers come in ways you didn’t expect, don’t be confused or discouraged—God is leading you in righteousness according to His absolute plans.

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Prayer. Father, I thank You for blessing me with Your Word. I don’t want to dwell on the scars of the past, the problems of today, or the uncertainty of tomorrow. I want to discover Your perfect plans through Your Word. Let it take root in my soul so I may see everything from Your perspective. Guard my mind and heart through Your Word so I will not fall into unbelief. I desire to seek Your kingdom and righteousness above all in every situation. Restore in me the power of Your Word, the heart for evangelism and world missions, and a life of prayer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Psalm 66:18. If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.

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Sin builds a wall between us and God. It blocks the channel through which His blessings flow. This is why we must confess our sins as soon as we fall, so that we may be cleansed from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Honest confession restores our relationship with our Father.

True confession is not merely about feeling guilty, remorseful, or ashamed. It begins with the acknowledgment that all our problems, shortcomings, and sinful nature originated from the fall—when Adam broke the covenant with God. In confession, we expose what the devil has done, binding all people under the law of sin and death.

In our confession, we agree with the Word of God that we have become lovers of ourselves, caught in self-centeredness, self-reliance (Genesis 3), and the pursuit of worldly pleasures (Genesis 6) and success (Genesis 11). We begin to see how the devil has trapped us in frames shaped by worldly powers (Acts 13), economy (Acts 16), and culture (Acts 19). We recognize the influence of his snares, continually tempting us to live as slaves to sin.

We place ourselves before our Father, struggling inwardly, torn between the law of God and the law of sin, just as Paul described in his letter to the Roman believers (Romans 7:14–23). So we echo his confession: “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24). But this cry is not the end—it leads us straight to the cross, where we also declare with Paul: “Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25).

The true confession of sin ultimately leads us to Jesus. He is our True King, who destroyed the power of the evil one and broke the chains of death. When we confess, we are declaring our freedom from Satan. He is our True Priest, who bore every curse and removed every disaster brought through sin. We come to Him, who has authority to forgive sin, and declare His and our victory over sin and death. And He is our True Prophet, who opened a new and living way to God so that we may live in peace with Him.

At the cross, the faithful and just God already forgave all our sins—past, present, and future—when Jesus, declared, “It is finished.” So when we confess, we do so not to earn forgiveness, but to step into the reality of what has already been accomplished. Through the Holy Spirit, God purifies us from all unrighteousness and renews our minds so that we can think on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—whatever is excellent or praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).

The Holy Spirit reminds us that we are God’s beloved children, and that nothing can separate us from His love in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:37–39). Confession, then, is not a time of defeat but a time of restoration, reassurance, and renewal. It is one of the greatest privileges of being a child of God.

We must recognize that one of the most powerful sources of sin is our speech. James writes, “Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ Otherwise, you will be condemned. Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise” (James 5:12–13).

Our speech controls the direction of our lives and can either build up or destroy. That is why we must overcome the power of words rooted in unbelief, legalism, and failure. Instead, we are called to speak words filled with the gospel, faith, and victory. Whatever you store in your heart will eventually come out in your words. If you store up the gospel in your heart, you will walk in the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).

In all you do, experience the power of God, that is, the gospel (Romans 1:16). And the gospel is Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 1:1-4). The Holy Spirit, who lives in you, will produce fruit in your life: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22).

As others see the good that flows from your heart and life, they will witness the light of the gospel and give praise to your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). Your words are powerful. They can encourage and build up or harm and tear down. So let your speech always be gracious and seasoned with truth, so that you will know how to respond to everyone (Colossians 4:6). Speak faith, hope, and love. Ask God to fill your mind with the mind of Christ.

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Prayer. Father, I thank You for Your unconditional forgiveness because of what Jesus has done on the cross. Help me to live under Your grace and proclaim the gospel of Your forgiveness to those still struggling under the power of sin. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ephesians 6:18. Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.

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One of the greatest privileges we have as children of God is the privilege of making supplication for others on their behalf. This means that we are invited to stand in the gap for those who may not yet know God, who are struggling, or who are in need of grace and mercy. As intercessors, we are not merely asking for blessings for ourselves, but we are aligning our hearts with God’s compassionate purposes and pleading for His will to be done in the lives of others.

This sacred role allows us to partner with God in His redemptive work, just as Abraham pleaded for Lot, Moses prayed for Israel, and Jesus Himself intercedes for us at the right hand of the Father. To pray for others is to join in the ministry of reconciliation that brings hope, healing, and transformation.

When Abraham learned about God’s plan to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, where Lot and his family lived, he earnestly interceded on their behalf. “Then Abraham approached him and said: ‘Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?’” (Genesis 18:16–33). Tragically, Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed because not even ten righteous people could be found. Yet, Lot and his family were spared.

Scripture testifies to this: “So when God destroyed the cities of the plain, he remembered Abraham, and he brought Lot out of the catastrophe that overthrew the cities where Lot had lived” (Genesis 19:29). That is the power of intercessory prayer.

We are surrounded by unbelieving friends and family members. Like Naaman, the commander of the army of the king of Aram, they may appear successful, yet struggle with hidden wounds. “Now Naaman was commander of the army of the king of Aram. He was a great man in the sight of his master and highly regarded… but he had leprosy” (2 Kings 5:1–14). Many hide their spiritual sickness beneath outward success, just as Naaman concealed his leprosy under armor.

People are also wandering, “harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). As a result, they are weary and burdened. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Though they may possess much, they live under the oppression of the devil. “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and… he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him” (Acts 10:38).

Spiritually dead and enslaved to sin, they are, by nature, objects of wrath. “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins… gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath” (Ephesians 2:1–3).

God calls us to lift them up in prayer. Will we intercede for them as Moses did when the Israelites sinned in the wilderness? “Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made themselves gods of gold. But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written” (Exodus 32:32). Moses repented on behalf of the people, pleading with God to show mercy. He regarded the salvation of the Israelites as more important than his own, even to the point of offering to be blotted out of God’s book for their sake.

Never give up when you pray for others. Your prayer is powerful and effective. “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops” (James 5:16–18). Elijah’s prayer changed the course of nature and the destiny of a nation.

God will remember your intercession. He will remember you when disaster strikes the lives of those for whom you pray. He will use you to bring salvation through the power of the gospel.

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Prayer. Father, I lift my unbelieving friends, family members, community, and nation to You. May Your grace be upon them so they may see the light of the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Philippians 4:6-7. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. ⁷ And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

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God has given us the right to bring our requests before Him when we believe in His Son. Jesus said, “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete” (John 16:24).

This privilege is not because of anything we have done—nor by our strength, our efforts, or even our godly living—but entirely because of the power of the name of Jesus. A prayer offered in His name is powerful because His name is perfect and complete. The power in prayer comes not from us, but from Christ alone.

When we pray in the name of Jesus, the Holy Spirit begins to work in our lives. Jesus said, “If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!” (Luke 11:13).

When the Holy Spirit moves in us, the impossible becomes possible, the difficult becomes easy, and best of all, He opens our eyes to understand the gospel. We come to realize that it is not by our effort, but by the Spirit who lives in us, that all things are made possible.

Therefore, the Word of God commands us not to worry but to “be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). So we wait on the promise of the Father, praying with all perseverance and supplication, trusting what Jesus declared: “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” (Acts 1:8).

If you are in trouble today, it may be the very moment God is inviting you to be filled with His Spirit. Ask in faith, and you will begin to live a life that testifies to the power of the Holy Spirit.

God has also given us authority over all the forces of darkness. Jesus said, “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you” (Luke 10:19). When we pray in the name of Jesus, demons flee, as Jesus said, “But if it is by the Spirit of God that I drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you” (Matthew 12:28).

In the name of Jesus, we must stand against the god of this age who blinds minds so they cannot see the light of the gospel (2 Corinthians 4:4). We must take our stand against the schemes of the devil who works tirelessly to block the spread of God’s truth (Ephesians 6:10).

As watchmen in prayer, we are called to stand guard over our families, churches, workplaces, schools, communities, and nations. As the prophet declared, “I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night. You who call on the Lord, give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem and makes her the praise of the earth” (Isaiah 62:6–7). The devil does not rest—he continues to bring disaster and confusion, for he knows his time is short. Neither should we rest in prayer.

When we cease to pray, the enemy comes and sows weeds among the wheat. Jesus told this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away” (Matthew 13:24–25). The devil wants us to reap unbelief, envy, greed, ingratitude, failure, and frustration. But we must continue to sow the Word of life and victory, uproot the lies of the enemy, and cancel the attacks of the powers of darkness.

Here is the secret of victorious living in Christ: “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mark 14:38). Recalling these words of Christ, Peter later echoed this truth in his letter to the scattered believers: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

Do not forget to ask God for the help of His angelic armies, for He has promised to send them to serve those who will inherit salvation: “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14).

So ask, as Elisha did. “’Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered. ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.’ And Elisha prayed, ‘Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.’ Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha” (2 Kings 6:16–17). God will act on your behalf through the ministry of His angels.

You are a precious and honored child of God (Isaiah 43:4). He will remember what you ask in faith and answer you according to His good, pleasing, and perfect will in His perfect time. So keep asking, seeking, and knocking, just as Jesus taught: “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7).

Your Father in heaven desires to give you good gifts when you ask—and far more than you could imagine. Listen to what He says to you: “You are my son; today I have become your father. Ask me, and I will make the nations your inheritance, the ends of the earth your possession” (Psalm 2:7–8).

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Prayer. Father, I thank You for the right to ask anything in Jesus’ name. I know You delight in giving good gifts to Your children. So I will stop worrying and start asking, trusting that You hear me and will answer according to Your perfect will. Thank You for answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Psalm 100:4-5.  Enter his gates with thanksgiving
    and his courts with praise;
    give thanks to him and praise his name.
⁵ For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
    his faithfulness continues through all generations.

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When we lift our voices in praise during prayer, the Triune God comes and dwells among us: “Yet you are enthroned as the Holy One; you are the one Israel praises” (Ps 22:3). The glory of God fills the place of prayer, and His power begins to move among us.

That’s exactly what happened to Paul and Silas in prison: “About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 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” (Acts 16:25–26).

Why is praise so powerful? Because praise is more than saying, “I believe.” It is the confirmation of our faith. In praise, we proclaim that Christ is the final answer to our lives and the solution to every problem and circumstance.

Do you know how King Jehoshaphat defeated the armies of Moab and Ammon? Assured of God’s covenant with His people, Jehoshaphat placed the temple singers in front of the army, dressed in their sacred robes, to praise the Lord. They marched ahead, singing: “Give thanks to the Lord; His faithful love endures forever!” (2 Chron 20:21). Placing a choir before the army—that is complete reliance on God, acknowledging that the battle belongs to Him.

And God responded in an astounding way: “As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated… When the men of Judah came to the place that overlooks the desert and looked toward the vast army, they saw only dead bodies lying on the ground; no one had escaped” (2 Chron 20:22–24). This is the power of praise!

When we come before God in prayer, we must do so as those approaching the throne of a king (Ps 100:4–5). With thanksgiving and praise, we humbly acknowledge His absolute sovereignty and power. We entrust our cares, hopes, dreams, and struggles to Him.

To meet the King of the universe is to come face-to-face with the end of all impossibilities. Nothing is too hard for Him. His goodness, love, and faithfulness ensure that His perfect work will be accomplished in us. So let us lay our requests before our King and wait with expectation (Ps 5:3).

If we forget our Father and give in to unbelief, worry, and discouragement, we will be torn apart—and nothing in this world can save us. But when we offer praise and thanksgiving for His glory, we will witness His power and receive answers to our prayers (Ps 50:22–23).

If you are in trouble or surrounded by darkness, do not be afraid. Instead, pray and praise God. Let your praise be a declaration of your faith in Him.

Your true King, Jesus, will strike the head of your enemy, the devil, once more (Gen 3:15). The peace of God will crush Satan under your feet (Rom 16:20). And God will prepare a table before you in the presence of your enemies—a celebration of victory (Ps 23:5).

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Prayer. Father, I praise You with all my heart. I praise You for who You are and all You have done for me in Christ. I thank You for the victory over my enemy and for the hope and future You have prepared for me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1 Thessalonians 5:18. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

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The most accurate way to confirm the work of God in our lives is through the fulfillment of His Word and His answers to our prayers. For this reason, we must know the Word deeply and accurately. Then, in God’s perfect time, we will begin to see precise answers to what we pray for.

Jesus assured us of this when He said, “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours” (Mark 11:24). But how do we believe we have received what we asked for? Through the prayer of thanksgiving.

We begin by giving thanks to our Father for what He has already done to resolve our fundamental problems. Scripture says, “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). The root of all our problems is spiritual—living without knowing God. Humanity, separated from its Creator, has been bound by death and sin since the beginning.

Yet, driven by His great love for us, God sent His Son to give us life and freedom in Christ. This is the greatest gift, and the first reason for our thanksgiving. God also freed us from the grip of the one who holds the power of death—the devil. As it is written, “You used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient” (Ephesians 2:2). From the moment we were cut off from God, all people came under Satan’s control, following the ways of the world and suffering spiritual, emotional, and physical consequences.

But God, in His mercy, saved us from Satan’s curse and the destiny of hell by offering His only Son on the cross. Jesus’ death was the most powerful display of God’s love for us. Through Him, we also receive the power to overcome our weaknesses and sinful nature. “All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath” (Ephesians 2:3). But now, we no longer need to live according to the desires of the flesh. We no longer chase the things of the world or bow down to false gods—we live to serve the living God.

All of this is made possible because of God’s love, mercy, and grace. “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4–6). There is no prayer more pleasing to our Father than one of thanksgiving for the salvation He has given and for the freedom from the power of Satan. Thanksgiving, then, must be the foundation of our prayers: “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Not only are we saved, but we have become children of God who no longer need to worry about anything in life. Jesus said,

“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:26–27).

Knowing this, we now seek God’s will above our own, trusting that His ways are higher. In every circumstance, we experience His peace. This is the life He promised us—and for this, we give thanks.

Even our troubles and hardships become reasons to pray: “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray” (James 5:13). Difficulties can become the very opportunity to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit. They help us focus only on Christ and the kingdom of God. Our prayers, when grounded in God’s covenant, are powerful and effective (James 5:16). Like Elijah, we will witness that nothing is impossible with prayer (James 5:17–18).

God allows our current situations so that we can experience the power of Christ working in us and through us. That’s why even trials become occasions for joy and gratitude: “Consider it pure joy… whenever you face trials of many kinds” (James 1:2). Before asking God for anything, reflect on what He has already given you in Christ. Instead of complaining or blaming others, ask God to open your eyes to His good, pleasing, and perfect will.

Let your heart return to thanksgiving. Gratitude is the highest form of worship to our Father (Psalm 95:2–3) and the most powerful weapon against the enemy (Job 1:20–22).

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Prayer. Father, I thank You for who I am and what I have in Christ. It is only by Your love, mercy, and grace that I can call You my Father. So I come and worship You with songs of thanksgiving. Assured of Your promises, I will give You thanks in all circumstances. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Matthew 5:23-24. Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, ²⁴ leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. 

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Jesus taught that there are three things we must do before we pray. First, we must reconcile with others. Division within families, churches, and even nations is a key strategy of Satan. When family members are not living in harmony, this can lead to failure in every area of life.

Unity is possible only in Christ. When we make an effort to see one another through the lens of the gospel, we can understand and accept our differences. We begin to see the root cause of many problems dissolve. Scripture gives us a clear example in the relationship between husbands and wives: “Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers” (1 Peter 3:7).

How we treat others has a direct impact on our prayers. When we begin to understand the spiritual struggles hidden in each person, the blessings of God will begin to unfold. In Today’s Word, Jesus emphasized that if church members do not make peace with one another, even their worship and offerings lose meaning.

Paul affirmed Jesus’ words when he wrote to the church in Ephesus: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope… one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all” (Ephesians 4:2–6). A church united like this cannot be overcome by Satan.

Jesus also urged us to place God first. He said, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). He taught us to keep our priorities in order. If we pray out of greed or selfish desires, we will miss God’s greater plan for us (Luke 9:23–25).

This is why Jesus commanded us to seek first His kingdom—the gospel, salvation, and the work of evangelism—so that Satan’s kingdom may fall wherever we go. And how do we do that? By proclaiming the righteousness of God, the message of the cross. Jesus calls us to pray for what God desires most: saving lives.

God already knows our weaknesses. What He wants to know is where our hearts truly lie—whether we are filled with godly sorrow or worldly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10). He wants us to care about what breaks His heart, and to make that the center of our prayers.

When our hearts and minds are set on things above, God will provide everything we need for the sake of the gospel. Open your eyes to the urgency of the mission. Go all-in on God’s kingdom and His righteousness.

Jesus also warned us not to judge others. He said, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged… Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matthew 7:1–5).

Before we pray, we must examine ourselves. Our words have power. Instead of judging others, we are called to speak words of grace, understanding, and forgiveness (Matthew 5:24).

We must stop trying to get even with those who hurt us. Instead, we should ask God to bless them. We do this because we, too, have been chosen to receive a blessing. Let us keep our words pure and avoid speaking anything that wounds or deceives (1 Peter 3:8–12).

It’s time to change the way we think and pray. Restore the prayer that Jesus taught us. This is the pathway to answered prayer.

Nothing can destroy you because you carry the life of Christ. Nothing can overcome you because you walk in His power.

Start praying like a true child of God. Start praying for what will last forever. And start experiencing the power of prayer that truly changes everything.

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Prayer. Father, thank You for reminding me of what I must do before I pray. Help me to seek what matters most to You. Help me to go all-in on Your kingdom and Your righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Matthew 6:9-13. This, then, is how you should pray:

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If someone does not know the gospel, they should not expect to receive answers to prayer. Without knowing that Jesus is the Christ, one cannot see the kingdom of God, and therefore cannot truly seek it. Jesus said, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33).

What is the kingdom of God? It is the reign and rule of God—the very heart of the gospel. Without an understanding of this kingdom, one cannot experience “all these things” that are promised within it. Jesus taught us to pray for the kingdom of God to come everywhere. When we proclaim the mystery of Christ in our mission fields, the kingdom of God will surely come there.

This is essential because the whole world lies under the control of the evil one, Satan (1 John 5:19). The disasters in this world stem from one root cause: spiritual ignorance. If we do not proclaim the One who came to destroy the power of Satan, sin, and hell, people will remain in darkness and suffer under the dominion of Satan. That is why we must never stop teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ—every day, and in every place (Acts 5:42).

Jesus also taught us to seek the will of God first: “Your will be done.” When we lay down our hidden motives and selfish desires, we will see God’s answers to our prayer. As Paul said, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).

Jesus did not associate Himself with those whose hearts were filled with selfish motives. After a miraculous sign, the people said, “He must be the Prophet who is coming into the world.” But Jesus, knowing they intended to make Him king by force, withdrew to the hills by Himself (John 6:14–15).

Therefore, we must pray for what God desires—not for what we want—to be done here on earth, just as it is in heaven. The purpose of our prayer is to discover His pleasing and perfect will, for His kingdom to come, and for His name to be made known throughout the world.

When we pray, we must entrust ourselves to God for our daily needs. Jesus said, “Give us today our daily bread,” and reminded us not to worry, saying, “What shall we eat?” or “What shall we drink?” or “What shall we wear?” Those are the concerns of those who do not know God. Our heavenly Father knows that we need all these things (Matthew 6:31–32). Renew your trust in your Father, who deeply cares for you. Make Him Lord over every area of your life.

Scripture declares that you are the most blessed person on earth. Because of what Christ has done on the cross, all your sins have been forgiven. Jesus, our True Priest, has set you free from the bondage of sin and death—original sin (Romans 3:23), generational sin (Exodus 20:4–5), and the actual sins we’ve committed (Romans 14:23). Through the blood of Jesus Christ, God finds no fault in you. He remembers your sins no more (Isaiah 43:25), and has removed them as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12). In His great compassion, God has trampled your sins underfoot and cast them into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19).

No one can condemn you anymore. Do not be deceived by the enemy, the devil. Enjoy your freedom in Christ and carry this good news to others who are trapped in guilt and shame. You have been forgiven—so forgive others: “And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”

When facing temptation, recognize the true nature of the battle. “Lead us not into temptation.” Our struggle is not against people. When unexpected problems arise, don’t blame others or your circumstances. Instead, ask God to open your eyes to the spiritual reality and help you discover His perfect plan in all things.

Your heavenly Father will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. He will always provide a way out so that you can endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13). If you respond to temptation with prayer and thanksgiving, the peace of God will guard your heart and mind (Philippians 4:6–7). Do not be surprised by what happened to you: troubles, conflicts, and crises. Stand firm on God’s covenant of world evangelization, and He will advance the gospel through all this.

Most importantly, be aware of your enemy. Though our True King Jesus crushed his head, Satan is still at work, leading the whole world astray (Revelation 12:9). He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Only the name of Jesus has the power to overcome the devil’s schemes. Without relying on Christ’s authority in prayer, we have no chance against the evil one. So we pray, “Deliver us from the evil one.”

We must be careful not to seek our own interests or glory. As Scripture reminds us, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). When we pray with selfish motives, aiming for our own recognition, we lose the greater reward: “They have already received their reward in full” (Matthew 6:5). God will not allow His name to be dishonored, nor will He share His glory with another (Isaiah 48:11). Everything we are and everything we have is purely by His grace.

For His is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever.

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Prayer. Father, I thank You for teaching me what to pray for. So I will stop worrying and start seeking Your kingdom and Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Matthew 6:9. This, then, is how you should pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.”

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Answered prayers require faith. As Hebrews 11:6 says, “Without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” But what kind of faith does this require? It is faith in the power of God.

God still works powerfully through His Spirit in the lives of His people, fulfilling His Word. The individuals listed in Hebrews 11 often appeared to be perishing, yet their unwavering faith in God’s power prevailed: “The world was not worthy of them” (Hebrews 11:38).

When we pray, we must not rely on our own thoughts and ways, but on God’s, for His thoughts are higher than ours and His ways far beyond our understanding (Isaiah 55:8–9). We should not limit our prayers to the scope of our present circumstances. The power of God transcends all human comprehension. We must learn to see from His perspective. He is Jehovah, the One who makes a way in the wilderness and brings forth streams in the wasteland (Isaiah 43:19).

A prayer based on our own standards, apart from God’s power and will, is not truly prayer at all. Only those who genuinely believe in God’s power will see answers to their prayers.

To possess such faith, we must begin by knowing who God is—”Our Father in heaven.” God is spirit. He is all-present, all-knowing, and all-powerful. He cannot be confined or limited. Anything with limits cannot be God; it is an idol. God created the universe by the power of His Word and continues to sustain and govern all things from His throne. And this infinite God is our Father. This is why we receive answers to prayer when we come in the name of Jesus.

Even before we pray, God knows the condition of our faith and our attitude toward Him. Therefore, we must seek to know Him more deeply. As Paul prayed, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better” (Ephesians 1:17).

The best way to know God is through His Word, where He reveals Himself. Scripture and prayer go hand in hand; they cannot be separated, as Jesus said, ” If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).

There is no name like the name of our God. His name is holy (Psalm 33:21), and it brings protection (Psalm 20:1), salvation (Psalm 20:5), righteousness (Psalm 23:5), goodness (Psalm 52:9), and deliverance from sin (Psalm 79:9). His name is absolute (Isaiah 42:8). Jesus came in His name (Matthew 21:9) and revealed it to those whom God had given Him (John 17:6). This is the name of the Triune God (Matthew 28:19).

When David faced Goliath, he declared, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied” (1 Samuel 17:45). Even in his darkest hour, David proclaimed, “He guides me along the right paths for His name’s sake” (Psalm 23:3). Like David, we must come before God with faith in His name.

When his nation was on the verge of destruction, Hezekiah prayed, “Now, therefore, O Lord our God, I pray, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You are the Lord God, You alone” (2 Kings 19:19). He placed his trust and the fate of his people in the name of God.

God has given us the name by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). The name of Jesus is above every name, and at His name, every knee will bow—in heaven, on earth, and under the earth (Philippians 2:9–10). Anything is possible when we pray in His name (John 14:14; 16:24). It is a name like no other. When you believed, you were given the right to come before the throne of your Father and receive answers to prayer.

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Prayer. Father, I come before You now, relying on who You are and the power of Your name. Lead me in the path of righteousness for the sake of Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.