40 Days of Prayer Experience

“So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Let there be tears for what you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.” James 4:7-10

Day 3 – Students

Today we pray for students that they will have hearts to learn and that they will seek wisdom. We ask our Father that He will place a spiritual yearning in their hearts to know Him. We also ask that situations in their lives which cause discouragement would not keep them from working hard in school but rather would motivate them to pursue a large vision for their lives.

We passionately request for the Holy Spirit to spawn spiritual movements among students that cannot be quenched. We long for revivals to take place in every school so that there are passionate Christ following students leading their schools toward God.

“For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy.” Proverbs 2:10

Day 4 – Parents

Parents hold a great amount of influence in the lives of their children. Let’s pray that they would honor God and live their lives in dependence on Him. Parents that demonstrate strong character in their home pass on a tremendous legacy to their children.

Let’s pray that parents would shepherd their children with wisdom and integrity. Pray that they will seek God first in their lives and submit to His leading.

“Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged; parents are the pride of their children.“ Proverbs 17:6

Day 5 – Teachers/Coaches

Teachers and coaches spend an extraordinary amount of time influencing the next generation. Teachers and coaches who demonstrate and teach God’s values will make an impact for eternity. Let’s pray that teachers and coaches would experience the joy of walking daily with Jesus.

Pray that they would not grow weary and lose heart in midst of the challenges they face on a daily basis. We ask that God would allow them to finish the school year strong and with a special energy and enthusiasm.

“If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well.” Romans 12:7

Day 6 – Principals/Administrators

Joseph was a skilled administrator and leader. Through his competent service, he blessed many people along the way. Let’s pray for the principals and administrators in the schools that they would exhibit excellent competence in serving the school communities and bring blessing to their school.

Pray that they would have courage to do the right things and have the perseverance to withstand the pressures that they face daily. Ask that God would provide generous grace on their lives and that they would seek Him with all their heart.

“So Potiphar gave Joseph complete administrative responsibility over everything he owned. With Joseph there, he didn’t worry about a thing—except what kind of food to eat!” Genesis 39:6

Day 7 – Superintendents

Just as the Lord made Joshua a great leader because of his dedication to God, let us pray that each superintendent would be God-fearing and live with integrity so that God may bless their steps. Leaders greatly influence the atmosphere of the organization and the health of its environment.

May each superintendent promote school environments that are healthy places to teach and learn. Please pray for them to lead well and lead with great wisdom and courage.

“That day the Lord made Joshua a great leader in the eyes of all the Israelites, and for the rest of his life they revered him as much as they had revered Moses.” Joshua 4:14

Day 8 – School Boards

School boards and superintendents can work well together or they can feud. When school boards are in unity with school leadership, much can be accomplished. Please pray that each school board member would have a servant’s heart coupled with wisdom.

Pray that the school boards would be an asset to maximizing the education process in each district. May they develop a good rhythm with school leadership.

“Or what king would go to war against another king without first sitting down with his counselors to discuss whether his army of 10,000 could defeat the 20,000 soldiers marching against him?” Luke 14:31

Day 9 – Unity of Purpose in the Body of Christ

Pray that churches and the whole Body of Christ would work in harmony to fulfill the Great Commission. Pray that the people of God would love one another and not compete against one another.

The church is so much more powerful when each member of the body values the other and supports them in their calling. This is God’s special vehicle to impact and change the world. Let’s ask God that the universal church would maximize its impact on our world.

“Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.” Philippians 2:2

Day 10 – Influence of Churches in each Community

Today we want to focus on the influence of each church to impact their community. May churches have a vision to reach their neighborhoods and provide resources to meet the needs of the individuals that reside there. We pray that churches would work together in each community and display the love of Christ to their neighbors.

We ask for God to use churches to impact each community one life at a time and to address the issues of poverty, education, family erosion, drugs, and other issues that plague each community. May God do supernatural things through His Spirit as believers step out in faith to pursue those who desperately need Jesus.

“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.” Acts 2:42-47

Day 11 – Multiplication of Prayer Warriors

We are seeking God today for a multiplication of prayer warriors. Prayer is a primary weapon that God has given us to push back the darkness to make room for the light. It is the instrument that ushers us into the presence of God and brings the powerful presence of the Almighty into the situation.

May all of us invest prioritized time in prayer and seek God’s heart. May we earnestly ask Him for more prayer laborers to lay the spiritual foundation necessary for us to experience revival

“When he realized this, he went to the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark, where many were gathered for prayer.” Acts 12:12

Day 12 – Favor with Government and Courts

We pray today for favor with the government officials and courts. We ask that our elected and appointed leaders would see the value of prayer and Christian beliefs in the daily activities of our society. Pray that they would stand against attempts to restrict the Gospel from going forth.

We also pray that Christians would be respectful of government leaders and honor them for their important work. When God is honored in society, the entire community receives a blessing.

“O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of us who delight in honoring you. Please grant me success today by making the king favorable to me. Put it into his heart to be kind to me.” Nehemiah 1:11

Day 13 – Movements of the Holy Spirit in each Community

Today we focus on God’s power to do immeasurably more than we can do by our own efforts. We desire to see His Spirit move in powerful ways throughout each community and change lives one by one. We pray for a movement of God that cannot be quenched or contained.

May the Spirit of God be free to work in our churches, in our communities, and in each of our lives individually. May the Kingdom of God increase in exponential fashion.

“Then he said to me, “This is what the Lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.” Zechariah 4:6

Day 14 – Bold Leaders

We are praying for bold leaders today to stand up for truth and godliness in our schools and in our communities. We ask that they would not bend to opposition but would stand firm in their faith. Bold godly leaders bring hope and strength to those around them and encourage others to have courage in their daily challenges.

Pray that God would raise up many bold leaders that would stand together to bring the light of the Gospel to our world. May we all be courageous and hold firm to our faith.

“After this prayer, the meeting place shook, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. Then they preached the word of God with boldness.” Acts 4:31

Day 15 – Generous Hearts

We are praying for generous hearts that want to invest deeply in the Kingdom of God. Please pray that the worldwide Church would experience the joy of giving (finances, labor, and expertise) and fully trust God with their finances. When a significant amount of new resources are released to God’s work, much more can be accomplished.

Specifically, please pray that God’s favor would be upon Acts 2 Toledo/Keep Watch and people will be excited to invest in the ministry. We pray for individuals, businesses, and churches to catch the vision and partner with us.

“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’ And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.” II Corinthians 9:7-8

Day 16 – Restoration of Families

Today we pray that the spirit of Elijah would be present to restore families to God’s design. We fervently ask God to mend relationships between husbands and wives, between parents and children, and also between siblings.

The family is God’s core design to show His power and glory in the world. Our families have been aggressively attacked for years and the foundation is crumbling at a record pace. Only God’s power can stop the assault and restore the family unit. Let’s pray in faith for revivals in our families.

“Look, I am sending you the prophet Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the Lord arrives. His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children, and the hearts of children to their fathers. Otherwise I will come and strike the land with a curse.” Malachi 4:5-6

Day 17 – Reconciled and Fruitful Marriages

Marriage was instituted by God to bring two distinct people and personalities into a united relationship that becomes one in spirit. There are many forces that seek to damage this relationship and break apart what God has joined together. Pray that marriages would be strengthened and operate in unity.

Pray that God’s Spirit would be Lord in both the husband and wife so that they follow closely God’s heart. Pray that together they would lead their families well.

“As the Scriptures say, ‘A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.’” Ephesians 5:31

Day 18 – Revived Hope

Today we pray for a revived hope to spring up in those who are discouraged and downtrodden. We ask God to fill each heart with the joy and peace that fuels hope.

We have so many people in our world that have lost their way and become cynical because they don’t believe that the things they hope for are possible. Please pray that these people would find their hope and life in Jesus.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Day 19 – Sufficient Grace

God wants to demonstrate in each of our lives that He can fill all of our needs. His pours His grace on each person that chooses to accept it and it transforms weaknesses into powerful testimonies.

Please pray that each of us would live dependently upon God and rest in His grace to overcome our weaknesses. Pray that we would find all we need in God.

“Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

Day 20 – Ears to Hear

As we reach the halfway point in our 40 day journey, we bring our attention to receptive hearts. For the gospel to go forth in power, ears need to listen and receive the message. We pray that our communities would be filled with people who listen to God’s voice. We pray that the noise around them would not drown out the still, small voice of God’s Spirit.

May the people in our communities listen and hear with their hearts so that they will be moved to take action and obey. We ask God to thwart Satan’s attempt to confuse the message so that the hope of Christ is able penetrate each person’s heart. 

“Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.” Isaiah 30:21

Day 21 – Forgiving Hearts

As we live in a society that is so quick to take revenge and not extend grace to others, let us pray for forgiving hearts to be present. The act of forgiveness would transform our communities and put an end to needless pain and death which is motivated by revenge.

Only true forgiveness can come through a relationship with Jesus and by the power of God’s indwelling Spirit. Let us pray that hearts would accept God’s grace in their lives and offer forgiveness to those who cause them pain.

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.” Colossians 3:13

Day 22 – Restored Communities

Today we pray for restoration of our communities particularly in the urban areas that now find themselves in discouraging circumstances. We ask God to provide hope and resources to reverse the blight that exists.

We also pray against the forces that have saturated neighborhoods with drugs and addictions. We ask the power of God would sweep away the things that are holding people in chains and free them to become the people that God created them to be.

“The threshing floors will again be piled high with grain, and the presses will overflow with new wine and olive oil. The Lord says, “I will give you back what you lost to the swarming locusts, the hopping locusts, the stripping locusts, and the cutting locusts. It was I who sent this great destroying army against you. Once again you will have all the food you want, and you will praise the Lord your God, who does these miracles for you. Never again will my people be disgraced.” Joel 2:24-26

Day 23 – Churches to Impact Their Communities

We pray for churches to be effective in reaching out to their communities and displaying God’s power to all the unseen rulers. We ask that churches will have a passion and an unrelenting resolve to reach every person for Jesus in their community.

We pray for perseverance so each church will not grow weary in their mission. When churches step out in faith to obey the Great Commission, God shows up in awesome ways.

“God’s purpose in all this was to use the church to display his wisdom in its rich variety to all the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.This was his eternal plan, which he carried out through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Philippians 3:10-11

Day 24 – Unified Body of Christ

We pray for the Body of Christ to work together and not against each other. We ask that churches would not get sidetracked by motives that do not reflect the mission of Jesus but would function as Christ envisions so that the world may know Him.

We ask for each member to look to Jesus for direction and to fulfill the calling that has been given to them without becoming jealous of another’s calling. We ask that each believer would be content with their role and support the other roles in the Body of Christ so that a unified Church will be effective in taking the Gospel to the world.

“This makes for harmony among the members, so that all the members care for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it, and if one part is honored, all the parts are glad. All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it.” I Corinthians 12:25-27

Day 25 – Every School Covered in Prayer

Today we pray for movement of God in schools. We pray that every school would be covered in prayer so that every child is touched by the prayers of God’s people. Jesus made time for children when the disciples were unable to see their value at the time.

Please pray that God would prompt the hearts of parents, school staff, and others in the community to regularly pray at the school that is on their heart and pray that school administrators would open the doors to allow these prayer walks to occur. Please also pray for Keep Watch to continue to follow God’s leading with wisdom and that God would provide the resources to serve every group that desires to have a prayer walk.

“One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.” Matthew 19:13

Day 26 – Every School Connected to a Church

We pray that every school has at least one church connected to it so that the fragrance of Christ is present at every school. We ask that those church partnerships would be a blessing to each school where they are present.

We pray for churches to have a vision of blessing schools with their resources so that schools value their presence. We also pray that schools would be open to partnerships with churches.

“For to God we are the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” 2 Corinthians 2:15

Day 27 – Infinitely More

We are asking God to do infinitely more than we can ask or think to expand His Kingdom in our communities. We earnestly seek God to pour out His Spirit and create movements that are turning peoples’ hearts to Him.

We pray these things in faith believing in God’s power to produce an abundant harvest. We also pray that He would use us as vessels to maximize our impact for His Kingdom.

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” Ephesians 3:20

Day 28 – Students Would Have Hearts to Study and Learn

Today we turn our attention back to education. We pray for students that they will have a heart to study and to learn. We pray that they would desire knowledge and wisdom but above all that they would desire the knowledge and wisdom of God.

We ask that the desire to learn would result in discipline and hard work so that their minds will be sharp and prepared. We also pray that God’s Word would sink deep into their hearts and mind.

“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.” Joshua 1:8

Day 29 – Teachers Would Have Hearts to Teach and Educate

Today we pray for God’s grace to be present in teachers so that they would have a heart to teach and educate their students well. We pray that they would be wise and follow God’s Word in their lives.

We ask God to give them strength and not grow weary or complacent in the tremendous position of influence that they have been given. We pray that they would have courage to do the right things and experience joy in their work.

“These wise teachers will fall into the trap of their own foolishness, for they have rejected the word of the Lord. Are they so wise after all?” Jeremiah 8:9

Day 30 – Teachers/Coaches Would Have Hearts to Mold Character

We pray for wise teachers and coaches who will build excellent character into the students that they are training. We pray that they would be good examples of character and tremendous role models.

We ask that the students would “catch” the character of their wise teachers and coaches. We are trusting God for a godly generation to lead with integrity.

“Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.” I Timothy 4:8

Day 31 – Hearts to Worship Our Creator

Today we focus on our own heart. We seek God with all our heart and worship Him with our entire soul. We ask that God would remove anything that is blocking our relationship with Him.

We pray that we will have hearts that continually worship God in all that we do and that we cling to Him like we need every breath of air. We also ask that God would draw the hearts of those who have forsaken Him back into a relationship with Him.

“And Solomon, my son, learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and serve him with your whole heart and a willing mind. For the Lord sees every heart and knows every plan and thought. If you seek him, you will find him. But if you forsake him, he will reject you forever.” I Chronicles 28:9

Day 32 – Enlarge the Territory of Acts 2 Toledo/Keep Watch

We turn our attention to the prayer of Jabez. We ask that God would expand the influence of Acts 2 Toledo organizationally and to allow the ministry of Keep Watch to grow in exponential ways so that the impact is felt well beyond the territory of NW Ohio.

We seek God to move Keep Watch into other states and other countries so that every child in school will have a covering of prayer. We are asking God to provide volunteers, funding, and creativity to rapidly expand the vision. Thank you for earnestly pursuing God on behalf of Acts 2 Toledo and Keep Watch!

“There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, ‘Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!’ And God granted him his request.” I Chronicles 4:9-10

Day 33 – Hearts to Seek the Wisdom of God

Because Solomon asked God for wisdom, God also prospered him in other ways as well. Today we asked for hearts in our cities and communities that seek the wisdom of God with all their hearts.

When people seek after the wisdom of God, he is able to put all the pieces of their lives together for His glory. We pray that our neighbors, friends, and family will have hearts that seek God’s best and desire to follow His design for life.

“So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies— I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have!” I Kings 3:11-12

Day 34 – Love in Action

Today we pray that followers of Christ would demonstrate sacrificial love to the unbelieving world. We pray that generosity in time, money, and resources would overflow from hearts of love.

We desire to see believers with such a deep love for people that they are compelled to action. We ask that it spreads to those who have been marginalized and shunned by society so that God’s power and glory are clearly demonstrated and recognized.

“Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.” I John 3:18

Day 35 – Prosperity Ignited by Generosity

We ask God to prosper generous people so that they are able to increase their generosity even more. We pray for hearts that want to bless others and invest in them because they have been blessed by God.

We ask that God will refresh the spirits of those who are refreshing others by their kindness, words, and resources. May the generous prosper in our communities.

“The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25

Day 36 – Hearts that Value Hard Work

We pray for a spirit of hard work to be present in our communities, particularly in the youth as they are growing and developing. We pray that the value of working hard will be encouraged and sought after.

We ask that there would be a long term mindset and a work ethic like the ants that pursues the future benefits of the present labor. Pray for people to reject attitudes of entitlement and embrace accountability for their efforts.

“Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5

Day 37 – Hearts that Embrace Diversity

Today we pray for a universal Church that embraces and values diversity. God has called everyone to His Kingdom and to lock arms together in unity for His glory and honor.

We pray that the Church would overcome the factors that divide because of racial and cultural differences. As the Church demonstrates unity in diversity, the world will have a reference point to find solutions for racial disharmony. We ask God that diversity would be a strength of His Church.

“And I saw another angel flying through the sky, carrying the eternal Good News to proclaim to the people who belong to this world—to every nation, tribe, language, and people.” Revelation 14:6

Day 38 – Hearts that Follow the Leading of God’s Spirit

We pray that followers of Christ would obey the leading of the Holy Spirit in every area of their life. As this happens, the fruits of the Spirit will be evident and passions will be ignited to impact the world around them.

We pray that our communities would be transformed by believers who are choosing to follow God’s direction in their lives. We ask that they would do so without regard to personal cost or sacrifice that may be required so that God is fully glorified.

“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.” Ephesians 5:22-25