A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 30: FAMILY MINISTRY/RESTORATION

Click here to start at the beginning

I believe I am now called to begin family ministry with my grown children, step children, siblings, parents etc. and share the knowledge I have gained. We all live dispersed through various different communities around the city and country. Therefore, we do not all fellowship together, but attend various churches within our own communities.

There is nothing inherently wrong with this but I do believe that we as family should specifically be ministering to one another, listening to one another’s concerns and praying for one another in a more purposeful manner for unity.

The enemy of our souls targets families and tears them apart creating feuds and rifts that are largely unnecessary, bringing division because there is great spiritual power to be found in united prayerful families. I can only imagine what a difference it would make if everyone in our family began to pray more purposely and effectively to one another.

I explained all of the above to my husband (when he visited) this evening and we both knelt together and interceded for one another, our marriage and for our extended family as never before. I believe our mutual prayer penetrated every obstacle and problem we have been facing and I am confident that from here on out, we will grow in strength. What the enemy attempted to destroy, our Lord only strengthened and is restoring.

Spiritual Lesson:

Prayer is very much a spiritual discipline; one that anyone  from a child to an adult can master, yet few of us truly press in to understand precisely how to pray; however this does not mean that we cannot press in and grow and utilize practical resources to assist us. My prayer life has advanced in leaps and bounds since I discovered this little truth; however, as with all things worthwhile, I would be remiss if I did not point out that the enemy does not stand idly by when we commit to grow in our personal prayer lives, but throws all types of painful and on occasion quite disruptive fiery darts our way.

Physical Lesson:

My prayer life has now changed irrevocably and I aim to set aside a prayer room in my house, where anyone of us within the home can retreat to and pray uninterrupted.

I also intend to rewrite this challenge in a user friendly book in order to be utilized as a guide for anyone else that would like to follow suit.

The head covering, while praying is a definite must as far as I am concerned.

Prayer:

Our Father, Precious Lord, Thank You for the ability to learn, to stretch and to be tested. Although the experience is not always pleasant, the results are always worth the effort, because You know best. Now that we have scratched the surface, please help us to press in ever deeper, practicing the spiritual discipline of prayer and communion with You, until we perfect it..

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte

A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 29: RESOURCES

Click here to start at the beginning

Although this challenge started out as a quest to find out whether there is a difference when praying with a head covering versus without one, it turned out to be so much more.  I have purposely prayed since I was nine years old but this prayer experience has enriched my prayer life in ways that I could never have predicted. 

Likewise, the attacks on my personal character, marriage, pets and loved ones were also quite unforeseeable and unexpected.

However, thankfully these attacks only served to press me deeper into this challenge, rather than to deter me. Once I had committed to the challenge, I was determined to see it through no matter what. After all, how long could thirty-one days really be? Now as I reach the end, I am thankful that I did continue and press in.

While pursuing this challenge and pressing into God, I discovered how to pray individually and purposely for each individual person I had placed on my prayer wall (so far only immediate family members and siblings etc.); but I know that I can add friends, acquaintances and anyone I feel encouraged to pray for. Now that I have name cards for every person, I no longer need to fear forgetting to pray for someone and I can easily add anything to my lists as I go.

I believe that as Nehemiah secured the resources he would need in order to be successful in building the wall around Jerusalem, so too does my wall “chart, name cards and notes provide me with the necessary resources. I have learned a valuable lesson in having practice resources at hand.

Last night while I was praying for the individual people on my name cards, laying my hands on their name cards and interceding for them, the Lord showed me that these people, represented different communities dispersed throughout the country. He impressed on me the need to pray for these specific communities in order to widen the blessing and covering around my loved ones and in this manner spiritually bless and intercede for these communities.

I started out with only a yearly devotional which I carry around with me on a daily basis, and record my prayers for my immediate family.  (For many years I have personalized my devotional, with pictures, prayers and notes). Now I have an entire wall, covered with names and scriptures to assist me in my prayers.

Spiritual Lesson:

Prayer is very much a spiritual discipline; however this does not mean that we cannot use practical resources to assist us. My prayer life has advanced in leaps and bounds since I discovered this little truth.

Physical Lesson:

I have decided that in order to press into this new method of praying and interceding for my family, I will need to create a permanent private space in order to be able to close the door and pray uninterrupted, regardless of the activities around the house. Presently, I am on my own and interruption is not an issue, but when I am reconciled to my family, and the normal household rhythms continue, my prayer life will be interrupted, if I don’t plan ahead and create this space.

Resources:

Bible

Pens / Markers

Yearly Devotional

Wall Charts

Name Cards

Head Scarf

(Prayer can be a lot more than a few minutes of whispered blessings and requests)

 – I usually started on my knees but have found myself kneeling, pacing, raising my hands, touching the name cards, and sometimes even pressing my forehead against the wall when pleading with God for breakthrough for someone or something.

Prayer:

Precious Jesus, thank you for all the blessed gifts of abundance bestowed on us by your grace and mercy towards us. Raise us up as prayer warriors, effective and ready at a moment’s notice to intercede and pray.

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte

A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 28: REALITY / WARFARE

Click here to start at the beginning

On day 13 I shared the following with you:

“Despite what I had learnt on Day 10, this weekend turned out to be a make or break weekend and I was VERY ill – equipped and unprepared for the spiritual attack that followed. Without sharing too many very personal details, I found myself in a situation that became unbearable, and for the sake of peace, I packed up my belongings to move out of my home.  I did not make this decision easily or lightly. Little over a year ago I had stepped into my marriage fully convinced that God had given me this gift. (I am still convinced that this is the case). I have always remembered this in my prayers and have thanked God every single day for this husband that he had given to me.

My most prized Gift ever … ripped away just like that …”

Now as I have reached day 28, I can say that this situation has not particularly reached resolution, but rather a see-saw effect of hope and failure, hope and failure. My marriage seems to be just at the tip of my fingertips; but I am just too short to reach out grab it back again, without compromising so many of the things I have learnt during this challenge. It seems I have to choose, for now at any rate. (I am in no way indicating or suggesting that it’s Gods Will that my marriage breaks up. I am merely reporting things as they have occurred. I don’t even know what the end result will be.)

I also became very aware of the spiritual realm last night and I know that the enemy is fighting very hard to distract me from completing this challenge. From out of nowhere, my Christianity was questioned with taunts of “You claim to be Christian but you won’t------------------------ (Add anything hurtful into the blank)???…. Or if you were such a great Christian you would do this instead of that…...” I knew immediately, as certain as I am sitting here that the voices may have sounded familiar, but the real spirits behind the voices were the enemy, trying to make me doubt, or stop by developing a spirit of fear within. 

The following scripture has an entirely new understanding and interpretation for me.

Luke 12:51-53 “Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division…... for from now on five in one household will be divided ….three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law, step-mother and step-daughter and step – father and step-son” AMP (Red font my own addition)

I have therefore resolved to intercede ever so strongly not only for my marriage, my husband and my children / step children; but to press in deeper into this prayer challenge because despite my ignorance, things are happening. I can bear the heartache of separation with the thought that right now I am in training to be a more effective prayer warrior in order to defend not only my immediate loved ones but anyone who requests it or as I am led by Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Lesson:

My prayers have taken an amazing new direction in that they are direct, confrontational warfare on the enemy and prayer covering for protection for my loved ones. I can honestly say that my spiritual eyes have never been this focused; my mind has never been this clear and purposed. My understanding has never been this clear.

Physical Lesson:

Last night, as I was praying and interceding I was led to place my hands on the prayer cards of loved ones, as I prayed for them individually. When I did this I felt more connected to them, almost as if I had my hands on their shoulders. It was an amazing revelation to me and a wonderful inspiration to continue. My beloved head covering and I will not be parted…We have come a long way together.

Prayer:

Father God, how wonderful to be in Your care, how wonderful to know that You are indeed and awesome God Who leads us into amazing revelations and discoveries, if we would just be obedient. Thank You for every Spiritual Blessing received at Your Hand…

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte

A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 27: ASSESS THE DAMAGE

Click here to start at the beginning

Nehemiah 2: 13 – 15 ” So I went out at night by the Valley Gate toward the Dragon’s Well and to the Refuse Gate and inspected the walls of Jerusalem which were broken down and its gates which were consumed by fire. 14 Then I passed over to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but there was no place for the animal that I was riding to pass.15 So I went up at night by the ravine [of Kidron] and inspected the wall; then I turned back and entered [the city] by the Valley Gate, and returned.” (AMP) 

Another lesson learned from the strategy recorded in Nehemiah was that Nehemiah walked around the city walls prior to beginning and assessed the actual physical damages incurred over time. 

Incorporating this method into my prayer challenge required me to consider each loved one individually that I had committed to pray for and think about the areas in their lives (that I am aware of) where I could focus and direct my prayers into. (Areas of vulnerability, illness, anything the enemy had stolen from them or areas of general struggle – warfare and also areas where I could pray positively into their lives - blessings). I didn’t know every single need or area of vulnerability, but I know I can rely on Holy Spirit to direct my prayers more specifically once I’m more trained by Him.

However, once, I knew the Who (I wanted to pray for) and the What (I wanted to pray about) it was easier to note the specifics under each person’s name. Therefore, I made name cards with each person’s needs. My bible and note book would obviously no longer be sufficient storage places, so I moved to the wall in my room and placed everyone’s name card under my mind maps…

Spiritual Lesson:

Now that I have more structure and direction in which to pray, my prayers have taken a new course. I am no longer at a loss for words.  I find that as I consider the next person or place I am praying for and follow my notes, there is momentum. I can avoid unnecessary repetition and when I am finished, I truly feel that my prayer time has had real meaning.

Physical Lesson:

I have to admit I didn’t see this coming when I started this prayer challenge. All I wanted to know was whether or not I should be wearing a head covering when I pray. Instead of answering that one question (which I now believe is a definite yes). I find myself organised, focused and my prayers have moved from being on my knees to a combination of kneeling and pacing, depending on what or who I am praying for. Occasionally, I even add a note or two to my name cards, as I think and pray about something that isn’t already written down.

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for this wonderful privilege to approach You with our prayers and petitions and thank you Holy Spirit for Your guidance and direction. It’s exciting to learn and grow deeper in understanding. Thank you that we have the ability to learn.

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte

A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 24 - 26: 

VISION – EYES TO SEE

LOGISTICS

Click here to start at the beginning

This weekend arrived and I found that once again I have plenty of time to reflect, read and pray about the circumstances and challenge. What a contrast to the beginning of this challenge when I could barely find the time to think, far less study and take notes.   

I found myself reading the story of Nehemiah and I realized again that he didn’t just decide to go and rebuild the wall surrounding the City of Jerusalem but he reflected and took all the logistics into consideration. Only when he was certain that he had covered all the possible angles, did he commence with the actual building. So too, must I as a prayer warrior, intercessor for loved one and friends have to look at the logistics and enter my prayer “chamber” armed and prepared.

So I started here:

1.    Confessed my dependence on Him.

Nehemiah 1:4 “… and I was fasting and praying [constantly] before the God of heaven. ⁵ And I said, “Please, O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps the covenant and loving kindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments,” (AMP) Emphasis my own.

2.    Express regret for not listening.

Nehemiah 1:7 “ We have acted very corruptly against You and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the ordinances which You commanded Your servant Moses.” (AMP) Emphasis my own.

3.    Consider who I want to cover in prayer and why? (See diagrams)

Nehemiah 2:13 “ So I went out at night by the Valley Gate toward the Dragon’s Well and to the Refuse Gate and inspected the walls of Jerusalem which were broken down and its gates which were consumed by fire. ¹⁴ Then I passed over to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but there was no place for the animal that I was riding to pass.¹⁵ So I went up at night by the ravine [of Kidron] and inspected the wall; then I turned back and entered [the city] by the Valley Gate, and returned.” (AMP) Emphasis my own.

Spiritual Lesson:

If I want to be an effective prayer warrior in the Kingdom of God, I can’t continue as before. I need to take the time to strategize a little. I have said my quick “Oh Lord” prayers in an emergency or crises, and they are certainly valid; however, when I enter my prayer chamber, I must be more organized. Being a visual person, I made myself the following mind map… (in order to inspect my “wall”)

Physical Lesson:

I am now stronger and although I’m not physically fit (I confess I don’t like exercise) I am certainly spiritually fitter than before I started this challenge. I am excited about what I am learning and my head covering is now not only a pretty regal scarf, but also a war helmet, reminding me of who I am in Jesus and under Whose command I submit to. I believe the unseen world sees this in the same manner (possibly even more than I presently understand).

The above mentioned mind maps now have a place in my bible and on my wall so that I can begin to pray with more structure and purpose.

Prayer:

Father God, thank You for leading us ever go gently from broken places to places of strength and purpose. Please forgive us for failing to Hear You when You have spoken and forgive us for sinning against You when we have failed to comply with Your commandments.

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte

A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 23: WISDOM TO GROW

Click here to start at the beginning

Anything we do in life requires a certain amount of wisdom, so too when we choose to become effective prayer warriors. Although, prayer is the easiest thing to do, as it is simply speaking to God directly, when we mature in our spiritual walk, we should seek to grow in wisdom in order to glorify God, especially in our prayers, as we approach Him.

Naturally the best place to start obtaining this wisdom is with God Himself.

Proverbs 9:10 “The [reverent] fear of the Lord [that is, worshiping Him and regarding Him as truly awesome] is the beginning and the preeminent part of wisdom [its starting point and its essence], And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding and spiritual insight.” (AMP)

In order to acquire the wisdom we seek in order to intercede for our loved ones and stand in the gap when required we need a pure form of wisdom, without bias, prejudice or even preference. This is very difficult for us to attain ourselves; but with God’s help it is possible. Since I have started this prayer challenge, I have found myself praying earnestly for some people that I have to admit “I don’t really like” and in some extreme cases would call my enemies. I can hide fact this from others, by avoiding them or discussions about these people, but I can’t hide this from God. Yet, despite this He has gently led me straight into intercession for them.

James 3:17 “But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile].”( AMP)

I have also realized that in order to press into this goal, I can make as many notes and plans as I like, but unless God is involved in the process, they are just notes…When He is involved there is always revelation and wisdom is accumulated.

Proverbs 19:21 “Many plans are in a man’s mind,
But it is the Lord’s purpose for him that will stand (be carried out)

Spiritual Lesson:

I have a pressing desire not only to pray effectively for my loved ones, but to press into this prayer challenge and become a true prayer warrior, as many greats who have gone before. Since the beginning I have experienced a steady growth in wisdom and understanding in my prayer life. Solomon dared to ask God for wisdom and his request was granted, as it pleased God. So to, dare I ask for Godly Wisdom.

Physical Lesson:

My prayer covering is now part of my prayer “kit”, and is stored with my Journals, pens and Bible. I have no idea why it took so long for me to submit to the challenge and why it took so much thought. The resistance alone should have been an indication for me that there is more to the head covering than I realize. I am completely persuaded that as I cover my head, fold my scarves in pretty knots and submit to God, that the seen and unseen worlds, acknowledge that I am in submission to Gods order, as described in scripture.  This alone makes me feel like, a feminine-warrior and royal-daughter to the King of Kings and therefore completely safe in His authority and company.

Prayer:

Father God, thank you for the wisdom that You freely bestow on those who ask. Just as Solomon asked for wisdom in order to rule over Israel justly, so too do we ask for wisdom, in order to take our places and serve in the Kingdom of God effectively and to Your Glory.

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte

A Test in Obedience – 31 Days

Head Covering / Prayer Room / Facing Giants

Day 22 : BENDING MY WILL

Click Here to start at the beginning

After I considered my motivation when I pray, I discovered that instead of using prayer as a tool to manipulate the spirit realm (even when done in ignorance) , it should rather be a tool that God uses in order to bend my will to His Will.

So instead of coming to Him with my prayer list, all memorized and really mostly asking for provision and protection for loved ones etc., I should rather learn to approach Him with an ear to “Hear”. After all God does know best. He knows where I have been, where I am and more importantly He knows what I still have to face. He knows of the needs and attacks that are occurring everywhere and He knows exactly what and whom needs intercession.

It therefore stands to reason that when I submit to Him in obedience; my time would be better spent permitting Him to bend my stubborn will to His.

The enemy has a way of throwing things our way that can disrupt the steady flow of our existence. These things distract us and have the potential to derail our lives or at the very least to cause us to pause and retreat for a time. 

(In some cases I have retreated for years at a time).

There is nothing wrong with praying and asking for provision and protection, but it’s pointless when we are praying blindly, instead of focused in the direction we are prompted to by Holy Spirit. How much more effective would our prayer lives be if we were praying in agreement with Holy Spirit, as He guides and directs, instead of rambling off a set of predetermined requests.

Mark 4:24 “ Then He said to them, “Pay attention to what you hear. By your own standard of measurement [that is, to the extent that you study spiritual truth and apply godly wisdom] it will be measured to you [and you will be given even greater ability to respond]—and more will be given to you besides.” (AMP) Emphasis my own

Isn’t this precisely what we really need in this hour and time in which we live? I know that I certainly need this ability. The world is literally falling apart, evil is rampant and we are bombarded daily with more than we can assimilate and process. When we begin to pray, as sincere as we may be, it’s an overwhelming task, because quite frankly there is too much (need, pain, difficulty).

Spiritual Lesson :

I learnt that I need to permit God to bend my will to His. I must learn to stop my thoughts and really listen to His Voice, to guide me in effective prayer. As a female prayer warrior I truly desire to pray directly and strategically so that my prayers will be effective and make a difference to the lives of those I pray for.

Physical Lesson:

I have never wavered from wearing the head covering. It has become a real part of my prayer and quiet time and I am becoming more convinced that it is indeed the right thing to do and in line with Gods Will for me. I experience a true covering and anointing when my head is covered in prayer. It no longer distracts me, but rather redirects my focus to serious prayer.

Prayer:

Father God, thank you so much for Your Grace and Mercy and endless patience with us. Please draw us near and help us to submit to You completely so that we will echo what Jesus said at the Garden of Gethsemane, “not my will but Thy Will be done.”

In Jesus Name we pray…Amen!!!

*Hugs* till next time.

Ariéte