Saturday, December 24, 2011

December 24, 2011 - Prayer

Just continue to pray this week for the children of the Township.  That God touch their hearts as much as He longs to.  That the churches He's called to teach these kids are prepared in their children's ministries and have all the resources they need.  Pray for the families to draw closer to the Lord and for Love to prevail in the families and homes.  That the school teachers have a refreshing time and return in January with fresh vision and love for the children.

Merry Christmas!

Saturday, December 17, 2011

December 17, 2011 - Prayer

Prayer focus for 12/17/11 to 12/23/11

Schools:
Mott High School
Churches: Lifepoint, Scott Lake Baptist
Residents/Business: Southeast Quadrant

Kids: Once again, God's heart is on the kids!  Pray they have encounters with Him.

Churches: That they prepare for more kids, reach out to the kids, teach them & love them.  That churches boldly declare Jesus Christ is Lord and not fall prey to spirits of antichrist that cause us to water down the gospel.

Schools: That the teachers are refreshed over Christmas vacation, rejuvenated and return to the classrooms with fresh vision and pour love into the kids lives.  That there is peace in the classrooms in January and the transition back to school is smooth.  Fresh year, fresh start.

Mott High School: for all the employees to further God's purpose and their hearts turn to Him for salvation.  That they reject the things that are contrary to God, that they are biblically and historically correct, rather than "politically" correct.  That they lift up and exalt Jesus Christ and holiness and righteousness prevail in the staff and students. 

State Educational Authorities / Township School Board: That they have God encounters in such a way that they know they are not coincidences but are from God.  His name is Jesus.  For the upcoming election, that positions are filled by those that will further God's purpose and have the wisdom, calling and anointing to function in that position.

Residents: Revival in every neighborhood.

Township Board & Employees: That each one and each position is filled with those called & anointed by God to be there, Christians or those whose hearts are softening to the Lord.  For the upcoming election, that positions are filled by those that will further God's purpose and have the wisdom, calling and anointing to function in that position.

United States & Michigan Governments: That the leaders reject the enemies that try to destroy us through culture and political correctness.  That those who influence and advise our leaders come to the knowledge of the Truth as well.  That they all follow the Way, Truth and Life.  That they are biblically and historically accurate.  That we are a sheep nation. Truth!

Saturday, December 10, 2011

December 10, 2011 - Prayer

Prayer focus for 12/10/11 - 12/17/11
Schools: Covert Center
Churches: Harvest Baptist, Waterford Oaks, Los Pentecostales

As I was praying for the schools and in particular the children of Waterford Township, I began to sense a strong longing for the Lord to touch the hearts of the kids in the Township.  It was very strong and I felt that the Lord wants to give dreams and visions and even special encounters with Him to the kids.  But I also felt that the churches would need to be prepared to receive these kids.  That they would need to have a strong children's ministry with enough workers and resources to handle extra kids coming.  I felt that the Lord would love for the churches to reach out and provide transportation to church for those kids who don't have it and to be ready for them in teaching them the Word of God and helping to prepare them for what God has for them.  That the ministry to children is not just babysitting or pacifying them, but actually ministering to them and teaching them.  Pray for this to happen!

For the schools: for there to be peace in the classrooms and that the needs of the kids are met.  That peace would displace confusion, distraction, frustration and anger.  That the hungry, neglected and abused are taken care of. 

Township School Board / State Educational Authority: United in Christian purpose
Once again, that our textbooks are historically and biblically correct.
That people are not afraid to stand up for the Christian faith in educational or governmental positions. 
That all of America is one step closer to the Lord today in their hearts, minds and actions.
For the protection of our country spiritually, militarily, financially, geographically.  That our government and our military have all the wisdom and resources needed to protect this country. 
That the police had all they need to go after lawlessness. 
That the churches have all they need to turn hearts to God.
That in Michigan, criticism and sarcasm is turned to praise, thanksgiving and an attitude of gratitude.
That only sweet waters and not bitter come out of our mouths.  And that as the sweet waters of praise flow from our mouths it brings the sweet presence of God.
That the assault on our Great Lakes are stopped.
That where the enemy comes in like a flood the Spirit of the Lord raises up a standard against him.
The attacks against the Christian faith are ineffective.

Oakland County Commissioners:  As there is re-positioning going on, the Lord have His hand in who is to leave and who is to stay.

Waterford Township employees: That the employees in every position be called and anointed for their position and have all the wisdom and discernment needed to function in their position.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

December 3, 2011 - Prayer

Let's not just pray from our mind to ease our conscience, convincing ourselves that we've done our duty because we've simply said a few words and put in our time, but instead let's pray from the heart, feeling God's heart, so we really mean it when we say, "Let Your kingdom come, let your will be done!"

We prayed this for the residents of Waterford and the businesses as well.  That the residents' faith is alive and real.  That the heart and soul of the businesses in the Township area are a blessing and in line with God's vision for this area.  For the leaders and mentors of the Township to rise up and fulfill their purpose as well. 
For all relationships--marriages, family, churches, teams, business partnerships etc. That how we all relate to one another is with love and unity. 
That lawlessness, desperation, frustration, selfishness, greed and hopelessness be displaced by righteousness, peace, patience, kindness, giving, hope, love, holiness and unity.
Romans 14:17 says the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Specifically prayed for Grace Missionary Church and Baptist Fellowship and for the Southeast Quadrant of the Township.  We prayed for Haviland Elementary and once again the School Board Members, Township Departments & Government and our Elected Officials.  That the Township runs efficiently with the right number of positions and the right duties assigned to each position.  And that each person in each position has God's calling and anointing to function. 
I once had a dream of a huge tidal wave rising up out of Elizabeth Lake which was the Spirit of God flooding the whole area.  It was beautiful and powerful.  It was at the end of Marvel Place--a street off of Cass Elizabeth.  Truly this will be a Marvelous Place!

Monday, November 28, 2011

November 28, 2011 - Joy To The World!

Joy to the world
The Lord is come
Let Waterford receive her King!
Let every heart
prepare Him room....

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

November 22, 2011 - Prayer

Prayer today at the Town Hall/Veterans Memorial.
Pray that our leaders see the wisdom of God's ways.  That His ways are not just a "religious" thing, but are actually very wise instruction.  God knows what He's talking about!  He says things for a reason.  Laws & ordinances that come in line with His ways will make it so that we can live a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence like it says in 1 Timothy 2:1-2. 
Of course, for the leaders to fear the Lord as well, (which is the beginning of wisdom), and respect Him, and love Him and honor Him would be an added blessing.

Pray that the educational authorities in the State of Michigan are not intimidated by those who would try to change our Christian purpose by influencing our children with historically and biblically incorrect textbooks or other information. We need the educational authorities in the State, as well as the Township to remain historically and biblically correct.  We need them to see the intentions of those who would try and take us off course by influencing our children with information that, even if it is "politically correct" is untruthful and flat out wrong.  Again, the fear of the Lord and seeing the wisdom of His ways are important in making decisions regarding policies and regulations.

Pray for the Southeast Quadrant, specifically the Pontiac Hmong church and Central United Methodist church.  And the residents and businesses in the area as well.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

November 5, 2011 – Southeast Quadrant Prayer

Prayer for the Government at all levels was at the Veteran’s Memorial across from the Town Hall.
In the Mayflower Compact signed on November 11, 1620 by the Pilgrims, it says, "Having undertaken, for the Glory of God, and advancements of the Christian faith…" These Pilgrims felt their mission in coming here was for God’s glory and the advancement of the Christian faith. This is a foundation we need to be sure we are building on. Our elected officials really need to be working to further God’s purpose for our land. As God is put back in His proper place and the idols we’ve put in "the high places" are removed, then our land will be able to fulfil it's purpose.

Prayer this week is also being offered for:

Churches- specifically Harvest Baptist. Each church has a place in the overall body of Christ, just like each Christian has a place. Each church has a different "personality" and that’s O.K. We should always acknowledge Him in all our ways, even before we take our first step for the day.

Schools- specifically Crary Campus. We all need to stand to protect our kids and not sell out to anyone who would try and bring them harm. Truth should be a priority, not self-promotion.

Businesses- specifically those around the Kmart area at Cass Lake Rd and M-59, Elizabeth Lake Rd. There are so many businesses that would be a blessing to this Township and so many that are here already that can grow into a greater blessing. God is more than able to provide resources and wisdom. God won’t bless dishonest business practices but if they are repented of, then He will forgive and the door is open to His blessings.

Residents- specifically off Cass Lake Rd. between Elizabeth Lake and Cass Elizabeth.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

October 29, 2011 - Southeast Quadrant Prayer

Today's prayer focus was for:
The Government and Township departments
The schools, board members and specifically Burt Elementary and Burt's staff. 
The churches, specifically Elizabeth Lake Church of Christ
The businesses, specifically in the area of Cass Lake Rd/Cass Elizabeth
The residents around Cass Lake Rd/Cass Elizabeth, mainly south of Cass Elizabeth

Proverbs 28:2 tells us when a ruler has discernment, understanding and knowledge it brings stability to the region.  Pray this for our leaders!
Also for churches to have fresh vision, to be encouraged and strengthened, for everyone to take their place in the body of Christ without jealousies, competition or criticisms. To seek the will of God, and to reach their neighbors and teach the children well.
That the textbooks and material taught in our schools are excellent and truthful, especially our American history.
Pray for what is influencing our rulers, leaders, teachers, etc. (See Proverbs 29:12)
That hard hearts are softened and opened to the will of God.

Friday, October 28, 2011

October 28, 2011 - Tyre

If you read Ezekiel chapters 26-28 God speaks of the city of Tyre and how they are going to be destroyed.  The reason is because they were:
  • Prideful about their beauty and splendor
  • Arrogant concerning its merchandise, trading and military strength
  • Of the opinion that they were "a god"
  • Of the opinion that their wisdom is what got them their riches and all of their blessings
Basically, Tyre did not give God the credit for all of their beauty, splendor, merchandise, riches, wisdom or position of strength and influence.  In Ezekiel 28 you read that the "prince of Tyre" had the same problem as the city--pride.  God, in speaking of the prince of Tyre, is referring to Lucifer, or satan before he fell from his position with God.  Of course he is the one who was influencing the city of Tyre, which sounds a lot like what the United States is becoming today. 

The people of the America need to make sure we repent of any pride or arrogance we might have developed in thinking that our own strength or wisdom has caused us to receive the many blessings that we have.  God is the one and only reason for any and all good things we have in this country.  Remember that "In God We Trust" is printed on our money for a reason!  Remember that this nation was founded as a Christian nation, whose founding fathers depended on God Himself in their mission. 

Consider the word of Benjamin Franklin at the Constitutional Convention on Thursday, June 28, 1787:

"In this situation of this Assembly, groping as it were in the dark to find political truth, and scarce able to distinguish it when presented to us, how has it happened, Sir, that we have not hitherto once thought of humbly applying to the Father of lights to illuminate our understandings? In the beginning of the Contest with G. Britain, when we were sensible of danger we had daily prayer in this room for the divine protection.- Our prayers, Sir, were heard, & they were graciously answered. All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of a superintending providence in our favor. To that kind providence we owe this happy opportunity of consulting in peace on the means of establishing our future national felicity. And have we now forgotten that powerful friend? or do we imagine that we no longer need his assistance? I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth- that God Governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid? We have been assured, Sir, in the sacred writings, that "except the Lord build the House they labour in vain that build it." I firmly believe this; and I also believe that without his concurring aid we shall succeed in this political building no better, than the Builders of Babel:"1

In the very foundations of the forming of this country, they relied on God answering their daily prayers before they could even have discussions about how to form this nation.  We must, today, continue to trust in God to answer our prayers for protection, guidance and blessing and to humble ourselves before Him and give Him the credit He deserves for bringing us this far and blessing us to the extent that He has.

1 Source:
http://avalon.law.yale.edu/18th_century/debates_628.asp
The Debates in the Federal Convention of 1787, Reported by James Madison, a delegate from the state of Virginia. Ed. by Gaillard Hund and James Brown Scott, Oxford University Press, 1920.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

October 22, 2011 - Surrender

The word for today seems to be "surrender."  God doesn't want you to give up to hopelessness, but rather surrender to Him and allow Him to have His way in your life.  If troubles in life are bogging you down, the answer is not to give up hope and become discouraged, for that will take your strength away.  Instead, surrender to God and seek His ways and you will receive His power and strength to fulfil your purpose!

Friday, October 21, 2011

October 21, 2011 - Truth

Proverbs 23:23 tells us to buy the truth and not to sell it.  And not just the truth but wisdom, instruction and understanding as well.  There is a price to pay for truth.  You may have to admit you've been wrong or change some things.  You may have to let go of or grab a hold of something you would rather not let go of or grab on to.  But the price of being deceived is much greater than this!  It is worth it to do whatever you need to do to find truth.  When looking for guidance in your life, you need to hear from the true Spirit of God.  Make sure you are not just listening to good ideas.  Its not enough to just have good intentions.  Don't sell the truth!  We need the Spirit of Truth to lead us.  Open your heart to Him and let Him know you will receive His truth.  You will not regret it!

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

October 18, 2011 - Return to Righteousness

As we begin to respond to the Holy Spirit moving on our hearts, we will walk away from all those things that displease the Lord.  And when we do, we are not missing out on anything!  The closer we walk towards Him, the more peace, the more love, the more joy, the more satisfaction we will have.  God's promise is a new heart and a new spirit within us so that we may walk in His ways.  This promise is for individuals, but for cities too!  Waterford--get ready for a new spirit that is full of life!

Thursday, October 6, 2011

October 6, 2011 - Praise!

Today was a day full of praise & worship!  How great it is to spend a day telling God how thankful you are for His goodness and blessings instead of asking Him for a zillion things!  There is something about the sound of praise going out into the air around you.  It will break through barriers like nothing else!

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

October 5, 2011 - Gangs

I woke up to this thought, after dreaming of a gang member doing gang signs with his hands:

"Gang symbols are not bad in and of themselves.  They show you are a part of something bigger than yourself.  It's the practices and principles of the gang that will get them in trouble."

We don't, necessarily, need to pray for the organization or brotherhood of gangs to be destroyed, but for their principles and practices to change.   Pray that the Motivations, Goals and Methods of the gang's leaders change from evil to good as God touches their hearts and draws them to Him.

Monday, October 3, 2011

October 3, 2011 - The Call, 40 day fast

We have been praying and fasting for The Call event taking place on 11-11-2011 in Detroit, Michigan at Ford Field.  God tells us if His people will humble themselves and pray and repent then He will hear us, forgive us and heal our land!  We are looking for our land- our communities, our state and our nation to be healed as we turn to the Lord and pray.  As for Waterford, much prayer is going on for the schools, the children, the churches and the economy of the area. 

Friday, September 9, 2011

September 9, 2011 - Pontiac, Detroit

I think prayer for Pontiac, and even Detroit is a good thing that will also have an effect on Waterford.  We can pray for the protection of Waterford from negative outside influences, but it is also a good thing to pray for the surrounding communities as well.  Especially Pontiac, as it is going through a difficult time and lots of changes right now.  And Detroit.  Detroit's difficulties do stretch to the surrounding metropolitan area as well.   I invite everyone who has a heart for this area to continue to pray for Waterford, but to include Pontiac and Detroit in your prayers as well.

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

June 17, 2011 - Elizabeth Lake Church of Christ & Burt Elementary

We need revival to bring healing to families!  We need a touch from God!

We prayed for Elizabeth Lake Church of Christ on South Winding.  Found out they had a new minister starting on June 18th.  We pray for fresh strength to all of them at that church and for REVIVAL!

We pray for signs of all kinds from Heaven to them. 

We also prayed for Burt Elementary, right down the street from the church.  For the kids safety, healing and for their families.

Friday, June 17, 2011

June 17, 2011 - Families

Prayer for the families of the Township to become places of refuge.  Places where there is praise and encouragement.  Where kids can grow and flourish in life.  Just like a seed planted in fertile soil.  That the presence of God is in the homes and families of the Township giving life, love, laughter and healing.

June 15, 2011 - Schools & Children

Prayer for the schools.  Day cares, preschools, elementary, middle and high schools and colleges.  For the safety of all the children and young people.  For an atmosphere of peace, love and encouragement.  For the Spirit of God to touch the hearts of the children, young people, teachers, principals, administrators and all those in decision making positions or positions of influence in our schools.  That the children will be able to learn in a positive atmosphere and become the best they can be.  That school is a positive influence, becoming a positive memory in their lives.

Prayer for the busses and bus drivers.  For safety and a good atmosphere on the busses.  For all of the extra curricular activities--sports, etc.  That there is praise & encouragement for the kids to do their best and not negative criticism or sarcasm.  That friendship, teamwork and unity are learned and experienced.

Prayer for the families.  For abused and neglected kids.  That no one goes unnoticed or unhelped.  That the families of the Township become places of safety, peace and love.  That churches reach out to the young people and families of the Township and have something to offer them.  Something real.  A real and living touch from God.

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

June 1, 2011 - Recognition with Humility

Sometimes we are our own worst enemy.  The people of Waterford oftentimes look down on themselves.  This needs to change.  Waterford needs to be recognized for all the good it contains.  It needs to become apparent that there are a lot of people here with excellent talents, skills and gifts.  Of course, the purpose of recognition is not for people to become arrogant, but rather for the good in people to be recognized so they are able to use their skills and talents.  We need to have humility without degrading ourselves or looking down upon ourselves.  There is a balance.  Recognition without arrogance.  Humility without degrading ourselves. 

Governor Snyder recently said at the Mackinaw Island Conference, *"We have a broken culture.  We've been beaten up for so many years.  We're down on ourselves."  He was speaking of the people of Michigan and this definitely applies to the people of Waterford.   Let's pray for this to change!

Economically, things need to turn around for the people of Waterford so they have money for their families.  So they can pursue their dreams, gifts, talents and skills.  The money needs to be here for the families of this township. Pray for the heavens to open up and for the grace of God to shine down upon us.  For jobs to open up for people.  But let it be jobs that will bring out the best in people.  Jobs that people will excel in.  That will make the most of their natural skills and talents.  So people will be happy in their jobs and that happiness carry over into the homes and families of the Township.

Abraham pleaded to God not to destroy Sodom.  He asked if there were ten righteous people in the city would God spare the city?  God said He would spare it if there were ten righteous people found there.**  God is not looking to destroy people.  He is not giving up on us.

The Lord said to Solomon, "If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."***

Our land needs to be healed!  Waterford needs to be healed.  People need to recover from the past and, by the grace of God, go forward and be everything they were meant to be. 

God has not given up on Waterford.  He hasn't turned his face from us.  As we turn to Him He will answer our prayers!

*The Oakland Press 6/4/2011, **Genesis 18, ***2 Chronicles 7:14

Thursday, May 26, 2011

May 25, 2011 - Police Department, Protection, Schools

With the neighboring city of Pontiac's police department being taken over by the Oakland County Sheriff's Office it will be important for the Waterford Police to have a strong presence to discourage crime as well.  We pray for Waterford Police to have all the resources they need to do an excellent job.  We pray for the department to have all of the information necessary to be prepared at all times for whatever comes their way.  We pray for the protection of the officers and citizens of Waterford as well.
We pray for the children of the Waterford schools.  That they are influenced by positive people-parents, families, teachers etc.  That any negative attitudes don't take hold in their life.  That selfishness is replaced by love and kindness.  That the children learn to yield to the good influences rather than the bad.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

May 23, 2011 - Oakland County Cruisers



We prayed for the Oakland County Cruisers baseball team and visited the area where the stadium is to be.  We'd love to see it be a place where families can go and have fun without worry of crime.  We'd love to see it be an excellent stadium that is clean and well maintained.  We'd love to see all the obstacles resolved and all the financing to come through for this stadium.

May 23, 2011 - Initial Prayer

Waterford is in a position to be a host to the world!  We have opportunity to step up to the plate and be an excellent host to travelers, visitors, sports figures, business people, filmmakers, politicians and whoever else comes to the area.  We can provide a place of peace, safety, and comfort to all who come here.  As a fountain bursts high with fresh, not stagnant, waters, Waterford can spring high calling attention worldwide.  Hospitality will have to be a strong point.

Waterford is the home of the Oakland County International airport and the future Oakland County Cruisers minor league baseball team.

It is, and will be even more, a good place to live.  I think property values will increase as it becomes known that this is a good place to live.

Recent economic problems may have caused some to feel that their position, talents or importance is not being recognized.  This may lead first to anger, then arrogance and attempts at self-promotion.  But the truth is, it doesn't matter who, or even if, you are recognized or even appreciated by others.  Your value and worth comes from within-from God. 
It doesn't matter if people see it or not, He does.  Humility is key.  Obtaining God's love, wisdom, humility and hospitable attitude will bring peace to your heart.  Be ready.
 
Pray for hotels, cruisers baseball team, the airport, the police and fire departments, the township government, the schools, parks, businesses and lakes.