January 15, 2020 Prayer Guide

 

Dear Praying Friend,

 

This month, pray for the many Californians overwhelmed by the snares of sin, who are not able to see, know, or live God’s truth. Pray for those whom you know are causing suffering through sexual promiscuity, unfaithfulness, and rebellion, and for those who are clothed in the grief of divorce, abortion, and disobedience. 

 

Pray that we who call ourselves Christians would wrap ourselves in a spirit of compassion – instead of disunity and judgment. Pray that we would indeed be known by our love for each other – and for the lost and hurting around us. Pray, too, that the “walking wounded” in our culture would find a relationship with Jesus Christ, who gave himself for the cleansing and regeneration of fallen humanity. 

 

The future of marriage went on trial in a San Francisco courtroom earlier this week. This historic hearing, called the Roe v. Wade of the marriage issue, could impact not just marriage in California, but also the marriage laws of 45 other states and the federal Defense of Marriage Act. In a case that could well be headed to the U.S. Supreme Court, homosexual activists are attempting to prove that Proposition 8 is unconstitutional under federal law. Keep the courtroom and the supporters of marriage vigilantly before the Lord in the days ahead.

 

The sanctity of life is also under the spotlight this month, with the approaching anniversary of Roe v. Wade on January 22. Thirty-seven years ago, the United States Supreme Court determined the right of women to an abortion. The tone of the nation is changing as Americans are becoming more pro-life, and young Americans are more pro-life than their older counterparts. Pray that pro-life opinions would continue to become more widespread, and that pro-life citizens would find ways to become active in promoting human life – especially during next week’s National Sanctity of Human Life Week.

 

California Family Council

P.S. CFC’s bimonthly prayer guides can also be found online at www.californiafamily.org.

 

·       that God’s presence would envelop the federal courtroom in San Francisco where Proposition 8 and the intent of its supporters is on trial. Pray that Judge Walker would competently fulfill his duty to evaluate the arguments presented, without bias. Pray that our witnesses will articulate the truth of the issue in confidence. 

 

·       for discernment and courage for the attorneys who present the arguments in support of Proposition 8. Pray for God’s protection and comfort for each of the men and women on the front lines, defending marriage from attack.

 

·       that God’s truth of marriage as between one man and one woman would remain victorious in California – despite court challenges, petitions, future initiative drives, media blasts, and pro-homosexual voter-education campaigns. Pray that the people of California – and the nation – would discern the truth that natural marriage, a symbolic picture of the unity of Christ and his church, is the foundation of society and the best place for bringing up children.

 

·       for policymakers, media, and special-interest groups who choose to ignore the opinions and values of millions of pro-life citizens. Pray that, as we approach the 37^th anniversary of Roe v. Wade later this month, 2010 will mark the turning of the tide in America and a reversal of policies from pro-abortion to pro-life. 

 

·       for the millions of women who have chosen abortion instead of giving life to a child. Since Roe was decided on January 22, 1973, 45 million lives – an average of over one million a year – have been lost. Pray for the women suffering from physical, emotional, and psychological trauma after an abortion, and that women considering an abortion will find mercy and counsel from the pro-life community. 

 

·       pray that the truth about the risks and trauma surrounding abortion would be revealed, abortion providers would be convicted, and that lives would be saved.

 

·       for “life celebrations” scheduled nationwide during Sanctity of Human Life Week January 17-24. Pray for the safety and demeanor of participants, and that the message that life is sacred and deserving of respect will reach observers and mainstream outlets. 

 

·       that parents would understand the insidious way that messages opposing religious faith creep into the public schools cloaked by messages of “tolerance.” Pray for children who will be exposed to overtly pro-homosexual messages during “No Name Calling Week,” Jan. 25-29. Pray parents will be involved in their children’s classrooms and aware of what is happening at their neighborhood schools. 

 

·       that legislators will strive to protect parental rights and authority – and not undermine the relationship between parent and child – as they consider legislation this session. This month, all legislation introduced last year faces a final deadline for passage. 

 

·       that Californians of faith would engage in cultural transformation by serving in their churches, communities, and local schools and by participating actively in the political/legislative process.

 

·       for California legislators who returned to the Capitol earlier this month. Pray that they will work with transparency, discernment, and integrity – in a spirit of unity – to solve the daunting issues facing California. 

 

·       that legislators would listen to their consciences as they vote on hundreds of two-year bills this month. Pray they would act wisely – considering those who elected them – and not pander to powerful special interests as they decide policies that will impact millions of Californians throughout the 2010 session.

 

·       for California families and individuals who face disappearing jobs and life savings, dissolving marriages, and moral confusion and failings. Pray they would find the answer to their uncertainties and challenges in the presence of a loving Savior. 

 

·       that legislators would listen to the people they represent and craft honest, workable solutions to a state deficit now estimated to be close to $20 billion. The families of California are making difficult financial choices. Pray that legislators would, likewise, seek wisdom and practice courage to solve California’s budget issues.

 

·       for CFC’s continued efforts to serve God in 2010 by transforming the laws and culture of California. Pray that our upcoming Truth Project leaders’ training sessions –January 16 in Orange and January 30 in Livermore – would transform people into influencers, equipped to articulate a biblical worldview. Pray that God would draw attendees with open hearts, who are ready to be prepared to challenge hostile voices in today’s culture.

 

United in passionate, effective prayer for California families

www.californiafamily.org