BLESS THE LORD O MY SOUL

Friend -- The calendar says that fall has arrived, but in many parts of the country it still feels like summer.  It is interesting to note that just because it feels like summer, and the temperatures may be summer-like, it does not change the fact that it is fall. Feelings don’t trump facts.  The same is true for our essential need to bless and praise the Lord, even when we don’t feel like it.  Our circumstances change and even challenge us, but God does not change;  He is always our Mighty Creator, All Sufficient, I AM, The Lord Most High, who sees, heals, and is always worthy to be praised. In the hours, days, or seasons of life when you don’t feel like blessing Him, take a few minutes to remind your heart of His faithfulness and His “benefits,” as Psalm 103 prompts us to remember and recite them.  Tell your soul that God has forgiven you, has healed you from many illnesses and redeemed your life.  Your unchangeable condition is that He wraps you and crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion even in the most hurtful or harshest of circumstances.  Continue reading through this Psalm and others, to add praise to your prayers throughout your days and let the overflow of your heart fill your conversations with others.  Let the world hear you bless God in every circumstance, as a testimony of His power and love in your life. We pray that these weekly messages help you grow in your prayer life, and prompt you to pray in new and expanded ways.  There are so many God-glorifying things happening, and we are thankful to get to share them with you as opportunities to pray and if led, to participate. There are three upcoming opportunities that you may be interested in participating in over the next few weeks.  First is our NDP Coordinator’s Refresh and Revive Summit, October 27-29 at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.  This is our annual gathering for those who plan events or work in our leadership year-round, to come be filled with information and inspiration.  As you can imagine, we spend significant time praying as well as going through the necessary training to be a strong and successful NDP coordinator.  You can get more information and a link for registration at www.nationaldayofprayer.org. The second opportunity is the Day to Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem on Sunday October 6th.  Many of us pray every day for Israel, but since 2002 this day seeks to unite believers around the world in raising a cry to Heaven on behalf of this troubled, but strategic land and its people.  Bishop Robert Stearns reminds us to “believe in God's promises for His beloved nation and fervently pray to hasten the day when He brings fulfillment to His word.”  You can find resources and prayer guides at daytopray.com. The final opportunity is to participate in 40 Days of Love; a global movement that sets aside 40 days to live a prayer, care, share lifestyle by asking God to give you 5-10 names of people He wants you to pray for, show His love to and share His message with for the next 40 days.  This year’s 40 Days of Love begins on September 29th and runs through November 7th.  You can find more information at 40daysoflove.net. Bless the Lord, oh my soul!  God is moving the hearts and hands of His people to pray and to show and share the love of Jesus across America and around the world!  We bless You Lord for Your faithfulness and Your goodness than endures and causes us to endure all circumstances because You, our God NEVER change! “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion; Who satisfies your years with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.” Psalm 103:1-5 Serving Him with Gladness, Kathy Branzell President National Day of Prayer Task Force Upcoming Events About the National Day of Prayer The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of the United States of America, evidenced by the Continental Congress’ proclamation in 1775 setting aside a day of prayer. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer and, in 1988, that law was amended, designating the National Day of Prayer as the first Thursday in May. To learn more, or to find a National Day of Prayer event in your community, visit www.NationalDayofPrayer.org. To schedule a media interview, send your request to media@nationaldayofprayer.org, or contact Dion Elmore, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at The National Day of Prayer Task Force, (719) 559-9574. http://www.nationaldayofprayer.com/

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