May 1, 2025 • 47 mins
May 1st is the National Day of Prayer, a time when millions of Christians across the country unite in prayer. On Equipped, we’ll revisit heartfelt prayers from friends who joined Chris Brooks to pray over vital areas of influence in our nation—our churches, families, and government. We invite you to share your prayer requests on Equipped Radio’s Facebook, Instagram, or X pages. Then join us for a powerful hour of prayer!
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Episode Transcript
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S1 (00:15):
Please enjoy this encore edition of equipped with Chris Brooks. Well,
hey there friends, welcome to an exciting edition of equipped
with Chris Brooks! I am absolutely thrilled that you've joined
us today. Can you do me a favor? Strap on
your seat belt. We're going to navigate through the contours
of culture, as always, with the lens of the biblical
(00:37):
worldview on. But before we do that, let me remind you,
this is the day that the Lord has made. He
has given it as a gift so that you and
I can rejoice and be glad in it. So let's
do just that. Let's follow the words of the Apostle Paul.
Let's rejoice in the Lord always. And again I say rejoice,
and there's so much to rejoice over, not the least
(00:57):
of which is we live in a land that affords
us the freedom to gather together and assemble for worship,
and for historic days like today, the National Day of Prayer.
I want to welcome you into what will be a
very important day for our nation, a day in which
believers across the country are asked to bow their knee
(01:21):
to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and
to make our requests and petitions on behalf of our family,
our city, our state, and our nation. To lay those
requests before him. Throughout this day, I'm going to be
joined by several friends who I respect tremendously for their
commitment not only to prayer, but to the advancement of
(01:43):
the gospel in our nation. You know, for those of
you who may not know, the National Day of Prayer
finds its roots back as far as 1775. The Continental
Congress then called the nation together to pray, to set
aside a time to fast, to pray, and to petition
(02:04):
God for his wisdom, his grace, and his guidance for
our leaders and for the families of our nation. But
it wasn't official until 1952, when a joint resolution was
produced by Congress under then president Harry Truman that the
National Day of Prayer came into official existence. And I'm
(02:24):
so proud that we get a chance to participate and
be a part of that. Please go to our social
media pages throughout the day and know that we're praying
for you individually, and we're praying for our nation. Our
first guest today is Jim Dennison, a friend of the
program and someone who many of you have come to
respect and appreciate because of his integrity, his thoughtfulness, and
(02:46):
his love for pastors and for the local church. That's
what Jim is going to be praying with me and
with you about today. Jim, welcome to equip on this
very special day. How are you, Brother Chris?
S2 (02:58):
I am well, my friend. Thank you for the privilege
anytime to be with you and especially on this day.
You're right, this is a very significant day for us
as believers and as Americans.
S1 (03:08):
I don't think it's an overstatement when I say that
the church is needed in our culture in a very
important and desperate way. I don't want to sound overdramatic
when I say that it can be argued that the
church is needed today more than ever before. When you
(03:28):
think about the importance of the role of the church
for our nation, can you just expound on why we
need to not only pray for the church, but to
continue to attend and strengthen the local church in our community?
S2 (03:43):
I'm delighted to do that. Thanks so much. So you know,
Jesus called us the light of the world. Well, the
dark of the room, the more necessary the light. And
I really do believe it could be a long conversation
about how dark the room is today. I think most
of us would agree that we're facing moral darkness, spiritual
darkness on an unprecedented level in American history. And so
the darker that room, the more powerful the light, the
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more apparent the light, the more attractive the light and
the more necessary the light that makes the church urgently needed,
especially in this day and time.
S1 (04:12):
It's been a hard season for many pastors over the
last several years. In addition to the losses that they've
suffered on a personal level, many have had to shepherd
and care for congregations who've gone through tremendous losses. When
you think about our pastors, what what burdens your heart
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the most as we consider pastors and praying for them today?
S2 (04:37):
Absolutely. The discouragement you're speaking of that's being so widely
reported across the country. Burnout is being reported. Uh, turnover
being reported, so many issues in the midst of all that. Well,
you know, Satan loves to use discouragement. There's this old
story about the devil's garage sale. He had all his
tools out, and they were priced and labeled and marked
and over. Here's anger, hatred, lust, murder, all the others.
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At the end is a tool that's more worn than
any other. No label but the highest price of all.
So when the devil what it was, he said, it's discouragement.
They ask why is it priced so high? Satan said,
because no one knows it's mine.
S1 (05:10):
Wow.
S2 (05:12):
I have found that tool in my life. I found
it in my garage. Yes, we as pastors want to
be constantly turning our discouragement into an opportunity to trust,
to pray, to seek the face of God, to seek
the strength of God. And today's a great day to
do that.
S1 (05:26):
Yeah, it so goes to church. So goes our nation.
Today we're going to ask you to go to our
social media pages and on Facebook and Twitter and leave
the name of your pastor, your church, because we want
to pray for your pastor and your church, and we
want to encourage you to do so as well. Let's
not just be critics of the church from the outside,
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but let's be a part of helping the church become
the beautiful bride of Christ that God intends for her
to be. Jim, if you wouldn't mind, can you lead
us in a moment of prayer for our churches throughout
our nation and for the pastors who lead them?
S2 (06:04):
I'm so honored to do that. So, Father God, we
come to you so grateful to know that you're the
great shepherd. You're the chief shepherd. You're the shepherd under
which all of those who are pastors serve. So I
ask you right now to pastor our pastors. We ask
you to encourage those who are discouraged. We ask you
to lead those who are confused. Father, we ask you,
even right now, those that are hearing these words to
turn their hearts toward you and give them, even in
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this moment, father, a special sense of your presence, your empowering,
your strength and your peace. Father, I pray that you
will guide them through this day and these days. I
pray these will be their greatest days of ministry. That, father,
you'd redeem the challenges of these moments to give them
a sense of courage and a sense of direction that
would make their ministries enter in the greatest season of
effectiveness that they have ever known. I pray for their
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churches to encourage them. I pray that even now, you'd
be moving in the hearts of your people to pastor
their pastors, to stand alongside them, to hold up their
arms as Moses arms will hold up, were held up
in conflict so long ago. And to be the intercessors,
the encouragers to the pastors that I know you're calling
them to be. So, father, we lift our churches to you,
our are pastors to you, I pray God that you
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will use us as light in this dark to the
furtherance of your kingdom, to the salvation of souls, and
to the glory of Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
S1 (07:18):
And father, continuing in prayer, we lift up the wives,
the spouses of pastors throughout this country. We also pray
for their children. Lord, what a heavy burden. Often, uh,
an unsung responsibility without much public accolades, but certainly with
tremendous responsibilities. We pray for those who are pastoring and
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those who are leading that you would bless their families
and may their homes know your presence. May their spouses
know your strength, your affirmation, and your closeness to them.
May children of pastors not wander far from the cross,
but may they cling to the name of Jesus calling
upon you as King of Kings and as Lord of lords. Lord,
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we do pray that you will bless today pastors, their families,
and our local churches. We ask these things in Jesus name,
Amen and amen. Jim, so grateful for you. If you
had to just share a parting word of encouragement and
maybe even challenge to pastors as they stand before the
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people of God this weekend, many are kind of putting
those final touches on a sermon to be preached this weekend.
There's so much happening in culture. You write about it
every day. Um, what would you say to pastors as
an encouragement and maybe even a challenge?
S2 (08:43):
Well, thanks so much for that, Chris. And Mother's Day
and all that's in that and the desire to be
as faithful to God's Word and to the families as
we can be. So something that's really been gripping me
recently is this fact. We all know that God has
a geographical call for us. I believe God called me
from Atlanta to Dallas in 1998. Macedonian vision of Paul,
that sort of thing. I'm certain pastors would have a
sense that God called them to the church where they're
(09:04):
to serve. And all of that, of course, is part
of God's providence. But there's also a chronological sense to
God's call. And by that I mean it's by God's providence.
We weren't alive a hundred years ago or a hundred
years from now if the Lord should tarry. And so
I say that to say, if God couldn't use pastors
in this moment, they wouldn't be in this moment. Wow.
When I served as a missionary in East Malaysia back
in college, I went through a long process of vetting,
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making certain on the part of the sending agency that
I was the right fit for that place and for
that time. Well, God is the best mission sending agency
there is. He would not have called you where you are.
And when you are, if he couldn't use you to
his glory, the challenge is to let him be the
one that uses you. Human words can't change human hearts.
We can't convict of sin. We can't save souls. We
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can't change lives. God does that through us. So if
we pastors will stay submitted to the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 518.
If we'll trust him to work through us, he will
use us in this moment in ways we can measure,
in ways we can't. I'll close with this. My favorite
definition of leadership comes from Alfred North Whitehead, who said,
great people plant trees they'll never sit under. Pastors, that's
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what you're doing this Sunday. To the glory of God.
S1 (10:15):
Such encouraging words, always full of wisdom and so grateful
for your friendship and for your reminder to us that
we have been called for such a time as this.
God bless you, Jim. Friends, I want you to stay
with us as we continue on in this National Day
of Prayer. Joining us next will be our good friend,
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Trillia Newbill. She's going to come to pray for our
families as we go to break. I want to encourage
you to go to our social media page, Facebook at
Equip Radio or Twitter at Equip Radio. Please leave the
name of your church and your pastor. I promise you,
we're going to pray. And I believe that God hears
our prayers and that he will respond. We can take
(10:57):
great confidence in that truth. While you're there, also consider
supporting the program. If God has blessed you through our program,
consider standing with us. Call 888644 4144. Whatever you do,
don't go anywhere. Much more to come. Next up on
equipped with Chris Brooks. Are you struggling in your spiritual journey?
(11:23):
Is the passing confusing Pilgrim's progress in today's English might
be exactly what you need. This modern version of John
Bunyan's classical allegory illustrates the challenges, temptations, and victories every
believer experiences, all in language that you can easily understand
and apply to your life. Request your copy with the
(11:45):
gift of any amount. To support equip this month, call
888644 4144 or visit Equip radio.org. Chris Brooks here reminding
you that today's program is pre-recorded. While we won't be
taking calls, We do want to connect with you on
social media. Welcome back to equip with Chris Brooks on
(12:06):
this historic and special day, the 73rd observance of the
National Day of Prayer. All throughout our country, from Washington,
DC to California, from the tips of Michigan all the
way down to Florida and points in between, believers are
bowing their knee to the King of Kings and Lord
of Lords, making petitions on behalf of our local, state
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and federal leaders as well as for our families. And
so I want to encourage you to do do the same.
Can you do me a favor? Maybe gather together if
there are other family members in your home right now,
maybe you can gather together, or maybe you're listening at
work and you can do that. I think this is
a moment where we come together as believers to petition
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our great God and King. Well, when you think of
the National Day of Prayer, quite obviously you think about
praying for our congressional leaders, maybe our president and military.
And we'll certainly get to those areas of government and
civic leaders. But I hope you don't forget to pray
for families. You know, as Doctor Tony Evans, who once
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said that the story of a nation is simply the
saga of its individual families writ large. I believe that
that as a family goes, so goes our nation. And
to help us to pray for the family today is
someone who I respect and appreciate tremendously. Our dear sister,
truly and truly is an author of several books. She's
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been a friend to equip her most recent that I
really want to encourage you to make sure you're aware
of this great cloud of witnesses. And she's a she's
written a lot of great books. And so I want
to encourage you to follow her, her writings as well.
Trillia how are you?
S3 (13:54):
Oh, I am doing so well and so grateful for
this day of prayer.
S1 (13:58):
You know, this is a big week on a number
of fronts, not the least of which is Mother's Day
is coming up. And as a mom, you have demonstrated
such a passion in particular in the recent years of
your ministry for families. Why are you so passionate about
seeing children reach for the gospel? Seeing families flourish in Christ?
S3 (14:25):
Mhm. Well, there's a number of reasons, but when I
think about families I probably am not thinking, um, so
technically about just the unit, but I'm thinking about God's
command to go and make disciples of all nations so
that we can spread his name. And so God has
given us a family. He has given us the family
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in the church and our family in through blood. And, um,
it's it's important to him, and it's the means of
which I believe the gospel can go forward. So I
have a desire to see families equipped and children, um, uh,
not just equipped, but, um, exposed to. And that the
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Lord would change their hearts so that they can go
from generation to generation and proclaim the the majesty and
the goodness of the Lord.
S1 (15:20):
You know, so interesting that you would bring that up,
because I think when most of us consider the Great Commission,
we think about global missions, and rightfully so, we think
about local evangelism, and rightfully so. But so much of
evangelism should be happening in our living rooms, shouldn't it?
S3 (15:38):
Um, absolutely. You know, it's interesting and I'm glad that
you said that, because I often do think that when
we think about discipleship, that commandment, we think outside of
the home. But it starts with my kids, and I'm
going to fail. I won't do it perfectly. But if.
But when I see that commandment, if I'm not discipling
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them first, then I really have neglected God's commandment to
go and make disciples of all nations. Well, it starts
with with my kids.
S1 (16:07):
You know, I referenced Mother's Day and it evokes a
whole range of emotions, maybe for some, uh, sadness over
missing a mom who's not here, or maybe a mom
who's missing a child who's no longer here. For others,
maybe great joy as they appreciate the moms that they have.
But for a lot of mothers, there is a sense
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maybe that I'm outmatched for the job. Trillia. I feel
overwhelmed by the responsibilities. What do you what word of
encouragement maybe can you give to moms who are listening
about their importance and about God's grace for motherhood?
S3 (16:46):
Yes, I would like to say, and this is going
to sound like bad news before it sounds like good news.
You are outmatched. You cannot do it, period. But you,
if you're trying to do it in your own strength
with God, he says, we can't do anything without him.
So if we're trying to use our own knowledge and
our own strength and our own wisdom, then we are
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all just going to fall flat on our face. But
with God, we can do all things. And I believe that.
And and he's equipped us. He's given us one himself. Um,
and and he's he's given us our, our children for
a reason, for a purpose. God is sovereign and good,
and and he will give us what we need to
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care for them again. And I say this all the time,
we we're not going to do it perfectly and we're
going to make mistakes. But if we have a God
who is sovereign and powerful and works all things together
for the good of those who love him, then we
can rest, and we can lay it at the feet
of Jesus, and we can ask him for the power
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that we need to care for these precious souls that
that he has given us. But let me tell you,
it's it I know as a mom with teens, it
is not for the faint of heart. It is something that, yeah,
we just pray and long for help. Yeah.
S1 (18:11):
Yeah, well, that's why we need the Lord, and that's
why we petition him. One quick question and then we're
going to let you pray. And that is I know
how important marriage is to you as well. And we
live in a generation where marriage rates are plummeting. The
question of, uh, maybe Gen Zers is, is marriage worth it?
Why is marriage so important?
S3 (18:31):
Well, marriage is so important because marriage is important to
the Lord, and he uses it even in so many
analogies as he's talking about our relationship with him and
with the church. And so I, I don't know if
I could say anything else because because the Bible told
me so, but that is yeah, it's essential for thriving communities,
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it's essential for families to thrive. I know that there's
so many people who are listening and who have broken families,
and the Lord can redeem all sorts of of all
of our broken brokenness. So I say these things not
to condemn, but to show God's God's, um, his wisdom
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in making families and also, um, his his word, what
he says in his word.
S1 (19:22):
Well, with that being said, we do want to encourage
families today, and the best thing we can do is
to pray for your families and families throughout this country. So, Trillia,
can you lead us in a moment of prayer for
our families and for those who serve families?
S3 (19:38):
Yes, Lord, you are good and awesome and mighty and just.
And we come before your throne of grace in our
time of need. And you say that we come and
we can. We can pour out our hearts. We can
come with our weariness, come with our doubts, come with
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our fears. And I know right now, in our society
and in our world, there are a lot of fears,
a lot of confusion. God, I pray that you would
meet the mom who, when Chris started talking about being overwhelmed,
she would she her head knelt down and she maybe
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even she started crying. God that you would draw near
to the brokenhearted, that you would give her peace. Um,
that she would know that you have equipped her for
the task at hand. God, I want to pray for fathers.
Lord God, I pray that they would, um, be strong
in you, in wisdom, God, that you would help them
lead their families well. Care for their families. Be servants
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and and guide, as the scriptures say, um, and that
they would love. Lord God. I want that they would
not provoke their children. God, as your scripture commands God,
but they they would teach them to obey God. Thank
you for the examples in the scriptures of, um, Eunice
and Lois and, um, all of these great and mighty
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women who shared the gospel with their children, the Timothy's and, um,
and how that impacted the entire world. Lord God, I
pray that we would be men and women who are
bold to share the good news of your grace to
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our children. That is what will sustain them. That is
what will keep them God. So I pray that we
would be bold to be to make disciples in our
homes first God, and that as we are faithful to
share the gospel and faithful to proclaim your goodness that
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it would affect generations upon generations upon generations. Lord, do
this mighty work, God, for your name's sake and for
your glory. God. And that it could start in a
little home in Pennsylvania, or in Chicago or in Maine. Lord,
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that you can do that at a kitchen table. You
you are awesome, God. So, God, I pray that people would, um,
get a big God view of ministry in the home
Lord and and the value of it and and God.
I want to pray for the grandparents and the caregivers
and all the people surrounding these families who are caring,
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and some of them are raising children. God, I pray
that you would give them strength and wisdom. God that
you would give them the grace they need to care
for these Uh, children. God, I want to pray also for, um,
parents who have adopted or are waiting. God, I pray
that you would give them wisdom and grace as they're
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raising children. Some of them are, uh, cross-cultural transracial adoptions. God,
that you would give them the tools they need to
love and care for their children. God, you you hear us?
And we can, um. We can rest assured that you
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hear every prayer that we are saying, God, that you
are right now interceding for your own. And Lord, thank
you that we know that, um, that even even in
our our as we as we age and as we um,
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as we carry these burdens, we're carrying maybe even new burdens, Lord, that, um,
that you will not forsake us. You will were not
forsake your people, and we can trust that that you're
going to finish the good work that you began in
our children as well. So, God, I pray for peace,
for trust, for hope, for wisdom, and for grace, for
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each and every parent and caregiver who is praying along
with us today. Amen.
S1 (24:06):
Amen and Amen. What a great prayer. So appreciate Trillion Noble.
Thank you so much for joining us today, for praying
for families and for praying for our nation. God bless you, Trillia.
S3 (24:21):
Thank you. Bye.
S1 (24:22):
Folks, we want to continue to pray together, and we're
going to do that throughout the day. And the same
offer I made for you to join us on our
Facebook and Twitter page to leave the name of your
church if there's a prayer request for your family. Uh,
we want to do that, so feel free to go
to Facebook or Twitter. Equip radio. We'll pray for your family.
All right. Anita's church. She asked us to pray for
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Resurrection Church of Fox Valley. Doing that also, Beverly asked
if we would pray for Praise Assembly of God in Tilton,
New Hampshire. We're doing that. Beverly also be asked for
us to pray for her church, Judah First Christian Ministries
in Largo, Florida. We're going to do that as well. Uh,
Mary Jane's church, Berean Bible Church in Indianapolis. We're praying
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for your churches. We also want to pray for your families.
So please go to Facebook and Twitter. Leave your family
prayer request in our comment section. And we're going to pray. Well,
I don't know about you, but I hear the stories
of great awakenings and revivals and generations gone by. And
I wonder, God, can that be true for us? Is
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there another great revival, another awakening that you can send
to our nation? If so, Lord, send it now. We're
going to pray for that. We're going to pray for
revival and the spread of the gospel from generation to
generation throughout our nation. When we come back from this
short break, don't go anywhere. It's the National Day of Prayer.
(25:56):
We're going to be praying. I believe that God hears
and he will heal our land. We'll be right back,
right after this short break with much more of equipped
right after this. Chris Brooks here reminding you that today's
(26:17):
program is pre-recorded and we won't be taking your calls. Well,
hey there friends, welcome back to equipped with Chris Brooks
on this very important and historic day for our nation.
It's the 70th National Day of Prayer. Uh, as Christians,
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believers across the country are praying for our leaders, for
our nation, for our church, for our families. You and
I should also be praying, Lord, send revival and let
it start in me. When I think about evangelism, when
I think about the spreading of the gospel, and I
(26:59):
think about engaging our culture with the good news of
Jesus Christ. One of the names that comes to mind
is Becky Pippard. Becky is a leading expert on personal evangelism.
She is an author and international speaker. Her real passion
is to help Christians gain confidence and build competence in
(27:21):
sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Now, many of
you will know her for her best selling book, out
of the Salt Shaker and Into the world. I love
that book. But her latest book, Stay Salt, is the
fruit of decades of experience in evangelism around the world,
and we are blessed on this National Day of Prayer
to be joined by Becky Pepper. Becky, how are you today?
S4 (27:43):
Oh, I am great. Chris, I'm so honored to be
speaking to you and on such a special day. Thank
you for asking me to talk with you and pray together.
I'm thrilled.
S1 (27:55):
Well, your joy for Jesus is infectious and I love it.
And I want those who are listening to gain that
passion as well. Becky, it seems to me that wherever
there's been great opposition to the gospel, there's great opportunity
for the gospel. Do you agree with that? And what
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opportunities do you see now?
S4 (28:18):
Yeah, I couldn't agree with you more. You know, we
have returned from ministering in the UK and also in Europe,
which is one of the most secular. It's considered the
most secular continent in the world. And what I learned
is that the more secular Culture becomes, the more what
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God has placed in human beings these creational longings for
meaning and truth and purpose, the more those longings are enhanced. Chris,
we saw such fruit when we were in the UK
and when we were in Europe. Um, and and we
can't ever underestimate, no matter how difficult the challenge is.
(29:04):
And we are living in tremendous challenges and there is
a great deal of evil being unleashed. But this is
our moment. This is the moment where God can work, uh,
beyond anything we can imagine. We mustn't lose our moment
for the Lord.
S1 (29:21):
Becky has written a lot on the type of questions
that can guide a conversation to the heart of the gospel.
I want to encourage you to, uh, find out more
about her ministry. And again, the book Stay Salt is
so important, Becky. One of the exciting things that happened
here at our local church just yesterday, as a young
woman came to our front door and asked to speak
(29:43):
with someone and she was distraught and she says, I've
been attending a mosque and they have been talking about
the afterlife and about what happens to us. And I
just don't understand what they're saying. Can someone please explain
this to me? You talk about a gift that God
just brought to our doorstep. Well, one of the young
(30:04):
women who are leaders here, uh, shared the gospel with her,
and she came to faith in Jesus. God is doing
some amazing things. But what do you say quickly to
those who maybe, uh, lack confidence, who are afraid of
what will I do in that moment?
S4 (30:21):
Okay, first of all, God has given us three things
to every Christian. God has given every Christian the means
that we need the power of the Holy Spirit, the
power of the gospel, the power of God's Word, both
written word and Jesus. Our effectiveness is not based on
whether we have the gift of the evangelist and we're extroverts.
(30:44):
The Lord told Paul, my power is made perfect in
your weakness. God's given us the means. Secondly, God has
given us the model for witness. When you in Jesus,
when you look at Jesus, what did he do first?
He listened. He loved. He looked. He asked questions. He
sought to understand the person. Then what was the second thing?
(31:06):
He always framed the gospel according to who that person
really was, who what they were like the the what
we need to do. I hear so often, how do
I get really quickly into the gospel? And I go,
how do I get quickly into sharing my testimony? And
I said, those are really important things. But the answer
(31:28):
is getting on their turf. First, find out who this
person is. That's the the tremendous importance of the model. Thirdly,
God has not only given us the means and the model,
he has given us the message and learning how to
share that gospel in a way that people can understand.
That is what we spent so much time, what we
(31:51):
spend so much time doing around the world. But in America,
how do we equip Christians for such a time as this?
Because we are living in extraordinary times. Yes, evil is
being unleashed, but when that has happened, there is also
more openness. There's a hunger in non-Christians that one answers,
(32:11):
and we mustn't lose our moment.
S1 (32:14):
Well, we're going to pray right now for this moment.
And if you would not mind taking a few moments, Becky,
to pray for the gospel to spread through God's children
to this nation. Can you pray for us, Becky?
S4 (32:29):
Uh, what an honor. Oh, Lord God, I thank you
for this National Day of Prayer and in a sense,
every day should be a national Day of Prayer. But Lord,
I ask, fill us with the power of your Holy Spirit.
Help us all the Christians who are listening to us now.
(32:51):
Help us to lean on your spirit, to abide in
you moment by moment. And Lord, forgive our unbelief. Forgive
us for feeling ashamed about our weakness. When you promise,
your power is perfected in our weakness. Forgive our pride
that never wants to admit how desperately we need you
(33:12):
and Lord, increase our faith and courage. Lord, would you
guide us to the people you are seeking? Give us
your love for them and wisdom in how best to
reach them, and open the doors that we may have
authentic friendships, spiritual Conversations. And Lord, we lift up these
(33:35):
unbelievers right now that that is in all of our lives. Lord,
create a hunger in our non-Christian friends for you. Open
their eyes to the emptiness of life without you. Open
their hearts and protect them from the enemy's devices. We
ask in Jesus name. And help us, Lord, to regain
(33:57):
our confidence and conviction for gospel mission. Oh God, use
us and produce fruit in us that glorifies the father.
Only you can produce the fruit, but help us to
be obedient. Lean on your power, love as Jesus did,
(34:19):
and share the truth of the gospel. Lord, I am
so aware that we are living in unprecedented times, which
is why we must use this moment, Nothing less than
serving you and your kingdom, and especially sharing our hope
in Christ's gospel is worthy of the lamb. Oh Lord,
(34:44):
make us worthy of the lamb. We love you. We
thank you. We praise you in Jesus name. Amen.
S1 (34:53):
Amen and amen. Becky. Such a blessing and such an encouragement.
You know, the scriptures remind us that from the abundance
or overflow of our heart, our mouth speaks. So pour
the gospel into your heart and it will come out
in your conversation. And don't forget to get your hands
on a copy of Stay Salt, the newest book by Becky. Becky. Becky,
(35:15):
thank you for joining us.
S4 (35:17):
Yeah. My pleasure. I can't wait to see you again
in person.
S1 (35:22):
All right. God bless. Well, we've been praying. Lord, send
revival as we think about the great awakenings of generations
gone by. We know that that's a combination of what
happens in our homes, in the living rooms of our
own homes, and what happens in the churches throughout our country.
But we also know that if a nation is going
(35:43):
to be blessed, it's because God is on the move
and it's leaders in the hearts of its leaders. And
so we're going to pray for them. We're going to
pray for our national leaders, those who have the responsibility
of legislation, those who have the responsibility of judging and ruling.
(36:04):
We're praying that God would use them in a mighty,
mighty way. We're also praying for our state and local
leaders as well. As we go to break, just know
we're praying for your local churches. And so I so
appreciate each and every one of you that have been
sharing with us the names of your local churches. Just
know that we are praying with you and for them. So, Betty,
(36:27):
know that we're praying for New Saint Mary's Baptist Church
in Osceola, Florida. Crystal. We're praying for neighborhood United Methodist
in Illinois, and we're praying for Lakes Church in Lakeland, Florida.
Maybe you want us to pray for your church. Go
to Facebook and Twitter. We'll do it now. We'll be
right back right after this. Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan
(36:54):
is one of the best selling books of all time.
It traces Bunyan's own spiritual journey through the character of Christian.
I want to send you Pilgrim's Progress in today's English,
a modern translation that faithfully preserved Bunyan's powerful message. Follow
Christian on his journey to the Celestial City and discover
timeless wisdom for your own spiritual walk. Request your copy
(37:18):
when you give a gift of any amount to equip,
simply call 888644 4144 or visit Equip Radio Org. Welcome
back to equipped with Chris Brooks. When you think about
what's happening in the halls of governance in our nation,
(37:38):
it can feel quite honestly, overwhelming. The politics are hyper divisive.
The rhetoric seems to only intensify. And if you're not careful.
Hopelessness and despair will grip your heart. But as believers,
we have been born again to a living hope. Very
few remind me of the living hope that we have
(38:00):
in our Savior. Then the 62nd chaplain of the US Senate,
retired Rear Admiral Barry Black. Chaplain Black, thank you so
much for joining me today on this 73rd observance of
the National Day of Prayer.
S5 (38:17):
I'm delighted to be with you, Chris. Thanks for having me.
S1 (38:22):
You know, when, uh, many hear your voice and hear
your prayers, it is like medicine embalmed to a sick
or weary heart. For some, the despair and discouragement of
the hour is simply from feeling overwhelmed by the complexities
and the divisiveness that seems to be a part of
(38:42):
what's happening in our government, not only on a national level,
but state and local as well. But yet your voice
and your heart seems to continually resonate with hope. Can
you just talk about the source of hope? Where do
you find hope in days like these?
S5 (39:01):
Well, there's a hymn that says, my hope is built
on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness. And he is,
according to John, chapter one, the word made flesh and
the word was made flesh, and he left us a gift. Chris,
(39:24):
as you know, No. His holy word. That Second Timothy,
chapter three says, is God breathed. Yes. I love that
breathed by God. Uh, the, uh, Peter wrote in his
second epistle, verse 120 through 22. Holy people spoke as
(39:46):
they were moved by the Holy Spirit. And in that
precious word which Jesus said, we live by. Uh, man
shall not live by bread alone, but by every word
that comes from the mouth of God. He says that
we should pray and that our prayers make a difference.
(40:10):
And he said in first Timothy chapter two, he said,
I urge that petitions, prayers, requests, and thanksgiving be offered
to God for all people for kings and all others
who are in authority. Presidents. Senators. Members of the House
(40:32):
of Representatives. Members of Parliament. That here it is. And
this is the purpose of government that we may live
a quiet and peaceful life. Yes, with all reverence toward
God and with proper conduct. Wow. That is the purpose
(40:56):
of government. That is the purpose of the Constitution, that
we may live a quiet Lord, help us and peaceful life. Yes.
With all reverence toward God and with proper conduct. Well, I,
I have, as do believers, the Holy Spirit living inside
(41:20):
of me. First Corinthians Ends. 619 says, know ye not
that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit
who lives in you, and you are not your own.
And then Romans 811 says, the same power that brought
Jesus from the dead lives inside of us. And it
(41:46):
is he who gives me power, so that the when
the good that I would do, I do not. He
is the one who enables me to live in the
condemnation free zone of Romans eight one. There is now,
therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.
(42:11):
And this gives me peace, a peace that my Savior
left me. Chris, when he said in John 1427, peace
I leave with you better than $1 billion. I prefer. No, no, no.
Peace I leave with you. My peace give I unto you.
Not as the world gives. Give I unto you. But finally, Chris,
(42:35):
this Holy Spirit living inside of me prays for me.
Romans 826 says, informing me, Barry, you don't know how
to pray and for what to pray, but the Holy Spirit,
Hallelujah will pray for you with groanings that words cannot express.
(42:59):
And that is why I live a quiet and peaceful
life with reverence toward God and with proper conduct. And
that makes me want to shout.
S1 (43:14):
What a reminder! You make us want to shout as well. Well,
we got about two minutes left, but with that time,
can you please pray for our governmental leaders?
S5 (43:26):
Almighty God. Author of Liberty. We lift our voices in
prayer for our nation. With reverential awe, we lift up
our leaders in the three branches of our government the
legislative branch, the executive branch, and the judicial branch of
(43:51):
our government. Lord, remind us that righteousness exalts a nation.
That holiness is a national security matter. Mighty God, you
have challenged us to pray for our leaders that we
(44:18):
will be able to live quiet and peaceful lives in
all godliness. You told us in Romans 13 seven, honor
to whom honor is due. Help us to respect those
whom you have placed in positions of leadership. Lord bless America,
(44:45):
land that we love. Stand beside her and guide her
through the night with your light from above. From the
mountains to the prairies to the oceans. White with foam.
Mighty God, we praise you for blessing America, our home
(45:11):
sweet home. We pray this in the sovereign name of
Jesus Christ. Amen. Amen and amen.
S1 (45:22):
Chaplain black, we're so grateful that you are on your post,
praying for our nation each and every day. God bless
you and God bless America as we pray on this
National Day of Prayer. God bless you, sir.
S5 (45:36):
Thank you so much, Chris. God bless you as well.
S1 (45:40):
Friends, I hope that this day has been an encouragement
to your heart. The National Day of Prayer is a gift,
a gift that God has bestowed upon this nation. And maybe,
just maybe, it's in these prayers and petitions that we
see a change of heart, I am convinced. Hopefully you
are as well that God is meticulously sovereign, that he
(46:02):
is in control of all things, that the heart of
the King is still in his hand. And if the
heart of the King is in his hand, and so
is the heart of a president, a vice president, a senator,
Supreme court justice, a governor, a mayor, a husband, a wife,
a son or daughter. So as we pray for America,
we're praying God bless our churches. God bless our families
(46:26):
as well. But I also believe that when his people
pray that he hears from heaven that he'll forgive our
sins and he'll heal our land, if we will turn
from our wicked ways and petition him. So let's continue
to pray throughout this day. Let's continue to trust in
Jesus if you don't know him and today you want
(46:47):
to give your life to him, I want to give
you a number to call 888. Need him. What a
great story to come to Christ on a national Day
of Prayer. Simply dial 888. Need him? Well, until we're
together again next time. As always, remember equipped with Chris
Brooks is a production of Moody Radio, a ministry of
Moody Bible Institute.
Please enjoy this encore edition of equipped with Chris Brooks. Well,
hey there friends, welcome to an exciting edition of equipped
with Chris Brooks! I am absolutely thrilled that you've joined
us today. Can you do me a favor? Strap on
your seat belt. We're going to navigate through the contours
of culture, as always, with the lens of the biblical
(00:37):
worldview on. But before we do that, let me remind you,
this is the day that the Lord has made. He
has given it as a gift so that you and
I can rejoice and be glad in it. So let's
do just that. Let's follow the words of the Apostle Paul.
Let's rejoice in the Lord always. And again I say rejoice,
and there's so much to rejoice over, not the least
(00:57):
of which is we live in a land that affords
us the freedom to gather together and assemble for worship,
and for historic days like today, the National Day of Prayer.
I want to welcome you into what will be a
very important day for our nation, a day in which
believers across the country are asked to bow their knee
(01:21):
to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and
to make our requests and petitions on behalf of our family,
our city, our state, and our nation. To lay those
requests before him. Throughout this day, I'm going to be
joined by several friends who I respect tremendously for their
commitment not only to prayer, but to the advancement of
(01:43):
the gospel in our nation. You know, for those of
you who may not know, the National Day of Prayer
finds its roots back as far as 1775. The Continental
Congress then called the nation together to pray, to set
aside a time to fast, to pray, and to petition
(02:04):
God for his wisdom, his grace, and his guidance for
our leaders and for the families of our nation. But
it wasn't official until 1952, when a joint resolution was
produced by Congress under then president Harry Truman that the
National Day of Prayer came into official existence. And I'm
(02:24):
so proud that we get a chance to participate and
be a part of that. Please go to our social
media pages throughout the day and know that we're praying
for you individually, and we're praying for our nation. Our
first guest today is Jim Dennison, a friend of the
program and someone who many of you have come to
respect and appreciate because of his integrity, his thoughtfulness, and
(02:46):
his love for pastors and for the local church. That's
what Jim is going to be praying with me and
with you about today. Jim, welcome to equip on this
very special day. How are you, Brother Chris?
S2 (02:58):
I am well, my friend. Thank you for the privilege
anytime to be with you and especially on this day.
You're right, this is a very significant day for us
as believers and as Americans.
S1 (03:08):
I don't think it's an overstatement when I say that
the church is needed in our culture in a very
important and desperate way. I don't want to sound overdramatic
when I say that it can be argued that the
church is needed today more than ever before. When you
(03:28):
think about the importance of the role of the church
for our nation, can you just expound on why we
need to not only pray for the church, but to
continue to attend and strengthen the local church in our community?
S2 (03:43):
I'm delighted to do that. Thanks so much. So you know,
Jesus called us the light of the world. Well, the
dark of the room, the more necessary the light. And
I really do believe it could be a long conversation
about how dark the room is today. I think most
of us would agree that we're facing moral darkness, spiritual
darkness on an unprecedented level in American history. And so
the darker that room, the more powerful the light, the
(04:03):
more apparent the light, the more attractive the light and
the more necessary the light that makes the church urgently needed,
especially in this day and time.
S1 (04:12):
It's been a hard season for many pastors over the
last several years. In addition to the losses that they've
suffered on a personal level, many have had to shepherd
and care for congregations who've gone through tremendous losses. When
you think about our pastors, what what burdens your heart
(04:32):
the most as we consider pastors and praying for them today?
S2 (04:37):
Absolutely. The discouragement you're speaking of that's being so widely
reported across the country. Burnout is being reported. Uh, turnover
being reported, so many issues in the midst of all that. Well,
you know, Satan loves to use discouragement. There's this old
story about the devil's garage sale. He had all his
tools out, and they were priced and labeled and marked
and over. Here's anger, hatred, lust, murder, all the others.
(04:57):
At the end is a tool that's more worn than
any other. No label but the highest price of all.
So when the devil what it was, he said, it's discouragement.
They ask why is it priced so high? Satan said,
because no one knows it's mine.
S1 (05:10):
Wow.
S2 (05:12):
I have found that tool in my life. I found
it in my garage. Yes, we as pastors want to
be constantly turning our discouragement into an opportunity to trust,
to pray, to seek the face of God, to seek
the strength of God. And today's a great day to
do that.
S1 (05:26):
Yeah, it so goes to church. So goes our nation.
Today we're going to ask you to go to our
social media pages and on Facebook and Twitter and leave
the name of your pastor, your church, because we want
to pray for your pastor and your church, and we
want to encourage you to do so as well. Let's
not just be critics of the church from the outside,
(05:48):
but let's be a part of helping the church become
the beautiful bride of Christ that God intends for her
to be. Jim, if you wouldn't mind, can you lead
us in a moment of prayer for our churches throughout
our nation and for the pastors who lead them?
S2 (06:04):
I'm so honored to do that. So, Father God, we
come to you so grateful to know that you're the
great shepherd. You're the chief shepherd. You're the shepherd under
which all of those who are pastors serve. So I
ask you right now to pastor our pastors. We ask
you to encourage those who are discouraged. We ask you
to lead those who are confused. Father, we ask you,
even right now, those that are hearing these words to
turn their hearts toward you and give them, even in
(06:25):
this moment, father, a special sense of your presence, your empowering,
your strength and your peace. Father, I pray that you
will guide them through this day and these days. I
pray these will be their greatest days of ministry. That, father,
you'd redeem the challenges of these moments to give them
a sense of courage and a sense of direction that
would make their ministries enter in the greatest season of
effectiveness that they have ever known. I pray for their
(06:48):
churches to encourage them. I pray that even now, you'd
be moving in the hearts of your people to pastor
their pastors, to stand alongside them, to hold up their
arms as Moses arms will hold up, were held up
in conflict so long ago. And to be the intercessors,
the encouragers to the pastors that I know you're calling
them to be. So, father, we lift our churches to you,
our are pastors to you, I pray God that you
(07:09):
will use us as light in this dark to the
furtherance of your kingdom, to the salvation of souls, and
to the glory of Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.
S1 (07:18):
And father, continuing in prayer, we lift up the wives,
the spouses of pastors throughout this country. We also pray
for their children. Lord, what a heavy burden. Often, uh,
an unsung responsibility without much public accolades, but certainly with
tremendous responsibilities. We pray for those who are pastoring and
(07:41):
those who are leading that you would bless their families
and may their homes know your presence. May their spouses
know your strength, your affirmation, and your closeness to them.
May children of pastors not wander far from the cross,
but may they cling to the name of Jesus calling
upon you as King of Kings and as Lord of lords. Lord,
(08:05):
we do pray that you will bless today pastors, their families,
and our local churches. We ask these things in Jesus name,
Amen and amen. Jim, so grateful for you. If you
had to just share a parting word of encouragement and
maybe even challenge to pastors as they stand before the
(08:26):
people of God this weekend, many are kind of putting
those final touches on a sermon to be preached this weekend.
There's so much happening in culture. You write about it
every day. Um, what would you say to pastors as
an encouragement and maybe even a challenge?
S2 (08:43):
Well, thanks so much for that, Chris. And Mother's Day
and all that's in that and the desire to be
as faithful to God's Word and to the families as
we can be. So something that's really been gripping me
recently is this fact. We all know that God has
a geographical call for us. I believe God called me
from Atlanta to Dallas in 1998. Macedonian vision of Paul,
that sort of thing. I'm certain pastors would have a
sense that God called them to the church where they're
(09:04):
to serve. And all of that, of course, is part
of God's providence. But there's also a chronological sense to
God's call. And by that I mean it's by God's providence.
We weren't alive a hundred years ago or a hundred
years from now if the Lord should tarry. And so
I say that to say, if God couldn't use pastors
in this moment, they wouldn't be in this moment. Wow.
When I served as a missionary in East Malaysia back
in college, I went through a long process of vetting,
(09:26):
making certain on the part of the sending agency that
I was the right fit for that place and for
that time. Well, God is the best mission sending agency
there is. He would not have called you where you are.
And when you are, if he couldn't use you to
his glory, the challenge is to let him be the
one that uses you. Human words can't change human hearts.
We can't convict of sin. We can't save souls. We
(09:48):
can't change lives. God does that through us. So if
we pastors will stay submitted to the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 518.
If we'll trust him to work through us, he will
use us in this moment in ways we can measure,
in ways we can't. I'll close with this. My favorite
definition of leadership comes from Alfred North Whitehead, who said,
great people plant trees they'll never sit under. Pastors, that's
(10:11):
what you're doing this Sunday. To the glory of God.
S1 (10:15):
Such encouraging words, always full of wisdom and so grateful
for your friendship and for your reminder to us that
we have been called for such a time as this.
God bless you, Jim. Friends, I want you to stay
with us as we continue on in this National Day
of Prayer. Joining us next will be our good friend,
(10:36):
Trillia Newbill. She's going to come to pray for our
families as we go to break. I want to encourage
you to go to our social media page, Facebook at
Equip Radio or Twitter at Equip Radio. Please leave the
name of your church and your pastor. I promise you,
we're going to pray. And I believe that God hears
our prayers and that he will respond. We can take
(10:57):
great confidence in that truth. While you're there, also consider
supporting the program. If God has blessed you through our program,
consider standing with us. Call 888644 4144. Whatever you do,
don't go anywhere. Much more to come. Next up on
equipped with Chris Brooks. Are you struggling in your spiritual journey?
(11:23):
Is the passing confusing Pilgrim's progress in today's English might
be exactly what you need. This modern version of John
Bunyan's classical allegory illustrates the challenges, temptations, and victories every
believer experiences, all in language that you can easily understand
and apply to your life. Request your copy with the
(11:45):
gift of any amount. To support equip this month, call
888644 4144 or visit Equip radio.org. Chris Brooks here reminding
you that today's program is pre-recorded. While we won't be
taking calls, We do want to connect with you on
social media. Welcome back to equip with Chris Brooks on
(12:06):
this historic and special day, the 73rd observance of the
National Day of Prayer. All throughout our country, from Washington,
DC to California, from the tips of Michigan all the
way down to Florida and points in between, believers are
bowing their knee to the King of Kings and Lord
of Lords, making petitions on behalf of our local, state
(12:30):
and federal leaders as well as for our families. And
so I want to encourage you to do do the same.
Can you do me a favor? Maybe gather together if
there are other family members in your home right now,
maybe you can gather together, or maybe you're listening at
work and you can do that. I think this is
a moment where we come together as believers to petition
(12:52):
our great God and King. Well, when you think of
the National Day of Prayer, quite obviously you think about
praying for our congressional leaders, maybe our president and military.
And we'll certainly get to those areas of government and
civic leaders. But I hope you don't forget to pray
for families. You know, as Doctor Tony Evans, who once
(13:13):
said that the story of a nation is simply the
saga of its individual families writ large. I believe that
that as a family goes, so goes our nation. And
to help us to pray for the family today is
someone who I respect and appreciate tremendously. Our dear sister,
truly and truly is an author of several books. She's
(13:35):
been a friend to equip her most recent that I
really want to encourage you to make sure you're aware
of this great cloud of witnesses. And she's a she's
written a lot of great books. And so I want
to encourage you to follow her, her writings as well.
Trillia how are you?
S3 (13:54):
Oh, I am doing so well and so grateful for
this day of prayer.
S1 (13:58):
You know, this is a big week on a number
of fronts, not the least of which is Mother's Day
is coming up. And as a mom, you have demonstrated
such a passion in particular in the recent years of
your ministry for families. Why are you so passionate about
seeing children reach for the gospel? Seeing families flourish in Christ?
S3 (14:25):
Mhm. Well, there's a number of reasons, but when I
think about families I probably am not thinking, um, so
technically about just the unit, but I'm thinking about God's
command to go and make disciples of all nations so
that we can spread his name. And so God has
given us a family. He has given us the family
(14:47):
in the church and our family in through blood. And, um,
it's it's important to him, and it's the means of
which I believe the gospel can go forward. So I
have a desire to see families equipped and children, um, uh,
not just equipped, but, um, exposed to. And that the
(15:11):
Lord would change their hearts so that they can go
from generation to generation and proclaim the the majesty and
the goodness of the Lord.
S1 (15:20):
You know, so interesting that you would bring that up,
because I think when most of us consider the Great Commission,
we think about global missions, and rightfully so, we think
about local evangelism, and rightfully so. But so much of
evangelism should be happening in our living rooms, shouldn't it?
S3 (15:38):
Um, absolutely. You know, it's interesting and I'm glad that
you said that, because I often do think that when
we think about discipleship, that commandment, we think outside of
the home. But it starts with my kids, and I'm
going to fail. I won't do it perfectly. But if.
But when I see that commandment, if I'm not discipling
(15:58):
them first, then I really have neglected God's commandment to
go and make disciples of all nations. Well, it starts
with with my kids.
S1 (16:07):
You know, I referenced Mother's Day and it evokes a
whole range of emotions, maybe for some, uh, sadness over
missing a mom who's not here, or maybe a mom
who's missing a child who's no longer here. For others,
maybe great joy as they appreciate the moms that they have.
But for a lot of mothers, there is a sense
(16:28):
maybe that I'm outmatched for the job. Trillia. I feel
overwhelmed by the responsibilities. What do you what word of
encouragement maybe can you give to moms who are listening
about their importance and about God's grace for motherhood?
S3 (16:46):
Yes, I would like to say, and this is going
to sound like bad news before it sounds like good news.
You are outmatched. You cannot do it, period. But you,
if you're trying to do it in your own strength
with God, he says, we can't do anything without him.
So if we're trying to use our own knowledge and
our own strength and our own wisdom, then we are
(17:09):
all just going to fall flat on our face. But
with God, we can do all things. And I believe that.
And and he's equipped us. He's given us one himself. Um,
and and he's he's given us our, our children for
a reason, for a purpose. God is sovereign and good,
and and he will give us what we need to
(17:31):
care for them again. And I say this all the time,
we we're not going to do it perfectly and we're
going to make mistakes. But if we have a God
who is sovereign and powerful and works all things together
for the good of those who love him, then we
can rest, and we can lay it at the feet
of Jesus, and we can ask him for the power
(17:52):
that we need to care for these precious souls that
that he has given us. But let me tell you,
it's it I know as a mom with teens, it
is not for the faint of heart. It is something that, yeah,
we just pray and long for help. Yeah.
S1 (18:11):
Yeah, well, that's why we need the Lord, and that's
why we petition him. One quick question and then we're
going to let you pray. And that is I know
how important marriage is to you as well. And we
live in a generation where marriage rates are plummeting. The
question of, uh, maybe Gen Zers is, is marriage worth it?
Why is marriage so important?
S3 (18:31):
Well, marriage is so important because marriage is important to
the Lord, and he uses it even in so many
analogies as he's talking about our relationship with him and
with the church. And so I, I don't know if
I could say anything else because because the Bible told
me so, but that is yeah, it's essential for thriving communities,
(18:53):
it's essential for families to thrive. I know that there's
so many people who are listening and who have broken families,
and the Lord can redeem all sorts of of all
of our broken brokenness. So I say these things not
to condemn, but to show God's God's, um, his wisdom
(19:16):
in making families and also, um, his his word, what
he says in his word.
S1 (19:22):
Well, with that being said, we do want to encourage
families today, and the best thing we can do is
to pray for your families and families throughout this country. So, Trillia,
can you lead us in a moment of prayer for
our families and for those who serve families?
S3 (19:38):
Yes, Lord, you are good and awesome and mighty and just.
And we come before your throne of grace in our
time of need. And you say that we come and
we can. We can pour out our hearts. We can
come with our weariness, come with our doubts, come with
(19:59):
our fears. And I know right now, in our society
and in our world, there are a lot of fears,
a lot of confusion. God, I pray that you would
meet the mom who, when Chris started talking about being overwhelmed,
she would she her head knelt down and she maybe
(20:20):
even she started crying. God that you would draw near
to the brokenhearted, that you would give her peace. Um,
that she would know that you have equipped her for
the task at hand. God, I want to pray for fathers.
Lord God, I pray that they would, um, be strong
in you, in wisdom, God, that you would help them
lead their families well. Care for their families. Be servants
(20:42):
and and guide, as the scriptures say, um, and that
they would love. Lord God. I want that they would
not provoke their children. God, as your scripture commands God,
but they they would teach them to obey God. Thank
you for the examples in the scriptures of, um, Eunice
and Lois and, um, all of these great and mighty
(21:05):
women who shared the gospel with their children, the Timothy's and, um,
and how that impacted the entire world. Lord God, I
pray that we would be men and women who are
bold to share the good news of your grace to
(21:28):
our children. That is what will sustain them. That is
what will keep them God. So I pray that we
would be bold to be to make disciples in our
homes first God, and that as we are faithful to
share the gospel and faithful to proclaim your goodness that
(21:51):
it would affect generations upon generations upon generations. Lord, do
this mighty work, God, for your name's sake and for
your glory. God. And that it could start in a
little home in Pennsylvania, or in Chicago or in Maine. Lord,
(22:12):
that you can do that at a kitchen table. You
you are awesome, God. So, God, I pray that people would, um,
get a big God view of ministry in the home
Lord and and the value of it and and God.
I want to pray for the grandparents and the caregivers
and all the people surrounding these families who are caring,
(22:35):
and some of them are raising children. God, I pray
that you would give them strength and wisdom. God that
you would give them the grace they need to care
for these Uh, children. God, I want to pray also for, um,
parents who have adopted or are waiting. God, I pray
that you would give them wisdom and grace as they're
(22:55):
raising children. Some of them are, uh, cross-cultural transracial adoptions. God,
that you would give them the tools they need to
love and care for their children. God, you you hear us?
And we can, um. We can rest assured that you
(23:16):
hear every prayer that we are saying, God, that you
are right now interceding for your own. And Lord, thank
you that we know that, um, that even even in
our our as we as we age and as we um,
(23:37):
as we carry these burdens, we're carrying maybe even new burdens, Lord, that, um,
that you will not forsake us. You will were not
forsake your people, and we can trust that that you're
going to finish the good work that you began in
our children as well. So, God, I pray for peace,
for trust, for hope, for wisdom, and for grace, for
(24:00):
each and every parent and caregiver who is praying along
with us today. Amen.
S1 (24:06):
Amen and Amen. What a great prayer. So appreciate Trillion Noble.
Thank you so much for joining us today, for praying
for families and for praying for our nation. God bless you, Trillia.
S3 (24:21):
Thank you. Bye.
S1 (24:22):
Folks, we want to continue to pray together, and we're
going to do that throughout the day. And the same
offer I made for you to join us on our
Facebook and Twitter page to leave the name of your
church if there's a prayer request for your family. Uh,
we want to do that, so feel free to go
to Facebook or Twitter. Equip radio. We'll pray for your family.
All right. Anita's church. She asked us to pray for
(24:45):
Resurrection Church of Fox Valley. Doing that also, Beverly asked
if we would pray for Praise Assembly of God in Tilton,
New Hampshire. We're doing that. Beverly also be asked for
us to pray for her church, Judah First Christian Ministries
in Largo, Florida. We're going to do that as well. Uh,
Mary Jane's church, Berean Bible Church in Indianapolis. We're praying
(25:09):
for your churches. We also want to pray for your families.
So please go to Facebook and Twitter. Leave your family
prayer request in our comment section. And we're going to pray. Well,
I don't know about you, but I hear the stories
of great awakenings and revivals and generations gone by. And
I wonder, God, can that be true for us? Is
(25:32):
there another great revival, another awakening that you can send
to our nation? If so, Lord, send it now. We're
going to pray for that. We're going to pray for
revival and the spread of the gospel from generation to
generation throughout our nation. When we come back from this
short break, don't go anywhere. It's the National Day of Prayer.
(25:56):
We're going to be praying. I believe that God hears
and he will heal our land. We'll be right back,
right after this short break with much more of equipped
right after this. Chris Brooks here reminding you that today's
(26:17):
program is pre-recorded and we won't be taking your calls. Well,
hey there friends, welcome back to equipped with Chris Brooks
on this very important and historic day for our nation.
It's the 70th National Day of Prayer. Uh, as Christians,
(26:37):
believers across the country are praying for our leaders, for
our nation, for our church, for our families. You and
I should also be praying, Lord, send revival and let
it start in me. When I think about evangelism, when
I think about the spreading of the gospel, and I
(26:59):
think about engaging our culture with the good news of
Jesus Christ. One of the names that comes to mind
is Becky Pippard. Becky is a leading expert on personal evangelism.
She is an author and international speaker. Her real passion
is to help Christians gain confidence and build competence in
(27:21):
sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Now, many of
you will know her for her best selling book, out
of the Salt Shaker and Into the world. I love
that book. But her latest book, Stay Salt, is the
fruit of decades of experience in evangelism around the world,
and we are blessed on this National Day of Prayer
to be joined by Becky Pepper. Becky, how are you today?
S4 (27:43):
Oh, I am great. Chris, I'm so honored to be
speaking to you and on such a special day. Thank
you for asking me to talk with you and pray together.
I'm thrilled.
S1 (27:55):
Well, your joy for Jesus is infectious and I love it.
And I want those who are listening to gain that
passion as well. Becky, it seems to me that wherever
there's been great opposition to the gospel, there's great opportunity
for the gospel. Do you agree with that? And what
(28:15):
opportunities do you see now?
S4 (28:18):
Yeah, I couldn't agree with you more. You know, we
have returned from ministering in the UK and also in Europe,
which is one of the most secular. It's considered the
most secular continent in the world. And what I learned
is that the more secular Culture becomes, the more what
(28:42):
God has placed in human beings these creational longings for
meaning and truth and purpose, the more those longings are enhanced. Chris,
we saw such fruit when we were in the UK
and when we were in Europe. Um, and and we
can't ever underestimate, no matter how difficult the challenge is.
(29:04):
And we are living in tremendous challenges and there is
a great deal of evil being unleashed. But this is
our moment. This is the moment where God can work, uh,
beyond anything we can imagine. We mustn't lose our moment
for the Lord.
S1 (29:21):
Becky has written a lot on the type of questions
that can guide a conversation to the heart of the gospel.
I want to encourage you to, uh, find out more
about her ministry. And again, the book Stay Salt is
so important, Becky. One of the exciting things that happened
here at our local church just yesterday, as a young
woman came to our front door and asked to speak
(29:43):
with someone and she was distraught and she says, I've
been attending a mosque and they have been talking about
the afterlife and about what happens to us. And I
just don't understand what they're saying. Can someone please explain
this to me? You talk about a gift that God
just brought to our doorstep. Well, one of the young
(30:04):
women who are leaders here, uh, shared the gospel with her,
and she came to faith in Jesus. God is doing
some amazing things. But what do you say quickly to
those who maybe, uh, lack confidence, who are afraid of
what will I do in that moment?
S4 (30:21):
Okay, first of all, God has given us three things
to every Christian. God has given every Christian the means
that we need the power of the Holy Spirit, the
power of the gospel, the power of God's Word, both
written word and Jesus. Our effectiveness is not based on
whether we have the gift of the evangelist and we're extroverts.
(30:44):
The Lord told Paul, my power is made perfect in
your weakness. God's given us the means. Secondly, God has
given us the model for witness. When you in Jesus,
when you look at Jesus, what did he do first?
He listened. He loved. He looked. He asked questions. He
sought to understand the person. Then what was the second thing?
(31:06):
He always framed the gospel according to who that person
really was, who what they were like the the what
we need to do. I hear so often, how do
I get really quickly into the gospel? And I go,
how do I get quickly into sharing my testimony? And
I said, those are really important things. But the answer
(31:28):
is getting on their turf. First, find out who this
person is. That's the the tremendous importance of the model. Thirdly,
God has not only given us the means and the model,
he has given us the message and learning how to
share that gospel in a way that people can understand.
That is what we spent so much time, what we
(31:51):
spend so much time doing around the world. But in America,
how do we equip Christians for such a time as this?
Because we are living in extraordinary times. Yes, evil is
being unleashed, but when that has happened, there is also
more openness. There's a hunger in non-Christians that one answers,
(32:11):
and we mustn't lose our moment.
S1 (32:14):
Well, we're going to pray right now for this moment.
And if you would not mind taking a few moments, Becky,
to pray for the gospel to spread through God's children
to this nation. Can you pray for us, Becky?
S4 (32:29):
Uh, what an honor. Oh, Lord God, I thank you
for this National Day of Prayer and in a sense,
every day should be a national Day of Prayer. But Lord,
I ask, fill us with the power of your Holy Spirit.
Help us all the Christians who are listening to us now.
(32:51):
Help us to lean on your spirit, to abide in
you moment by moment. And Lord, forgive our unbelief. Forgive
us for feeling ashamed about our weakness. When you promise,
your power is perfected in our weakness. Forgive our pride
that never wants to admit how desperately we need you
(33:12):
and Lord, increase our faith and courage. Lord, would you
guide us to the people you are seeking? Give us
your love for them and wisdom in how best to
reach them, and open the doors that we may have
authentic friendships, spiritual Conversations. And Lord, we lift up these
(33:35):
unbelievers right now that that is in all of our lives. Lord,
create a hunger in our non-Christian friends for you. Open
their eyes to the emptiness of life without you. Open
their hearts and protect them from the enemy's devices. We
ask in Jesus name. And help us, Lord, to regain
(33:57):
our confidence and conviction for gospel mission. Oh God, use
us and produce fruit in us that glorifies the father.
Only you can produce the fruit, but help us to
be obedient. Lean on your power, love as Jesus did,
(34:19):
and share the truth of the gospel. Lord, I am
so aware that we are living in unprecedented times, which
is why we must use this moment, Nothing less than
serving you and your kingdom, and especially sharing our hope
in Christ's gospel is worthy of the lamb. Oh Lord,
(34:44):
make us worthy of the lamb. We love you. We
thank you. We praise you in Jesus name. Amen.
S1 (34:53):
Amen and amen. Becky. Such a blessing and such an encouragement.
You know, the scriptures remind us that from the abundance
or overflow of our heart, our mouth speaks. So pour
the gospel into your heart and it will come out
in your conversation. And don't forget to get your hands
on a copy of Stay Salt, the newest book by Becky. Becky. Becky,
(35:15):
thank you for joining us.
S4 (35:17):
Yeah. My pleasure. I can't wait to see you again
in person.
S1 (35:22):
All right. God bless. Well, we've been praying. Lord, send
revival as we think about the great awakenings of generations
gone by. We know that that's a combination of what
happens in our homes, in the living rooms of our
own homes, and what happens in the churches throughout our country.
But we also know that if a nation is going
(35:43):
to be blessed, it's because God is on the move
and it's leaders in the hearts of its leaders. And
so we're going to pray for them. We're going to
pray for our national leaders, those who have the responsibility
of legislation, those who have the responsibility of judging and ruling.
(36:04):
We're praying that God would use them in a mighty,
mighty way. We're also praying for our state and local
leaders as well. As we go to break, just know
we're praying for your local churches. And so I so
appreciate each and every one of you that have been
sharing with us the names of your local churches. Just
know that we are praying with you and for them. So, Betty,
(36:27):
know that we're praying for New Saint Mary's Baptist Church
in Osceola, Florida. Crystal. We're praying for neighborhood United Methodist
in Illinois, and we're praying for Lakes Church in Lakeland, Florida.
Maybe you want us to pray for your church. Go
to Facebook and Twitter. We'll do it now. We'll be
right back right after this. Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan
(36:54):
is one of the best selling books of all time.
It traces Bunyan's own spiritual journey through the character of Christian.
I want to send you Pilgrim's Progress in today's English,
a modern translation that faithfully preserved Bunyan's powerful message. Follow
Christian on his journey to the Celestial City and discover
timeless wisdom for your own spiritual walk. Request your copy
(37:18):
when you give a gift of any amount to equip,
simply call 888644 4144 or visit Equip Radio Org. Welcome
back to equipped with Chris Brooks. When you think about
what's happening in the halls of governance in our nation,
(37:38):
it can feel quite honestly, overwhelming. The politics are hyper divisive.
The rhetoric seems to only intensify. And if you're not careful.
Hopelessness and despair will grip your heart. But as believers,
we have been born again to a living hope. Very
few remind me of the living hope that we have
(38:00):
in our Savior. Then the 62nd chaplain of the US Senate,
retired Rear Admiral Barry Black. Chaplain Black, thank you so
much for joining me today on this 73rd observance of
the National Day of Prayer.
S5 (38:17):
I'm delighted to be with you, Chris. Thanks for having me.
S1 (38:22):
You know, when, uh, many hear your voice and hear
your prayers, it is like medicine embalmed to a sick
or weary heart. For some, the despair and discouragement of
the hour is simply from feeling overwhelmed by the complexities
and the divisiveness that seems to be a part of
(38:42):
what's happening in our government, not only on a national level,
but state and local as well. But yet your voice
and your heart seems to continually resonate with hope. Can
you just talk about the source of hope? Where do
you find hope in days like these?
S5 (39:01):
Well, there's a hymn that says, my hope is built
on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness. And he is,
according to John, chapter one, the word made flesh and
the word was made flesh, and he left us a gift. Chris,
(39:24):
as you know, No. His holy word. That Second Timothy,
chapter three says, is God breathed. Yes. I love that
breathed by God. Uh, the, uh, Peter wrote in his
second epistle, verse 120 through 22. Holy people spoke as
(39:46):
they were moved by the Holy Spirit. And in that
precious word which Jesus said, we live by. Uh, man
shall not live by bread alone, but by every word
that comes from the mouth of God. He says that
we should pray and that our prayers make a difference.
(40:10):
And he said in first Timothy chapter two, he said,
I urge that petitions, prayers, requests, and thanksgiving be offered
to God for all people for kings and all others
who are in authority. Presidents. Senators. Members of the House
(40:32):
of Representatives. Members of Parliament. That here it is. And
this is the purpose of government that we may live
a quiet and peaceful life. Yes, with all reverence toward
God and with proper conduct. Wow. That is the purpose
(40:56):
of government. That is the purpose of the Constitution, that
we may live a quiet Lord, help us and peaceful life. Yes.
With all reverence toward God and with proper conduct. Well, I,
I have, as do believers, the Holy Spirit living inside
(41:20):
of me. First Corinthians Ends. 619 says, know ye not
that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit
who lives in you, and you are not your own.
And then Romans 811 says, the same power that brought
Jesus from the dead lives inside of us. And it
(41:46):
is he who gives me power, so that the when
the good that I would do, I do not. He
is the one who enables me to live in the
condemnation free zone of Romans eight one. There is now,
therefore no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.
(42:11):
And this gives me peace, a peace that my Savior
left me. Chris, when he said in John 1427, peace
I leave with you better than $1 billion. I prefer. No, no, no.
Peace I leave with you. My peace give I unto you.
Not as the world gives. Give I unto you. But finally, Chris,
(42:35):
this Holy Spirit living inside of me prays for me.
Romans 826 says, informing me, Barry, you don't know how
to pray and for what to pray, but the Holy Spirit,
Hallelujah will pray for you with groanings that words cannot express.
(42:59):
And that is why I live a quiet and peaceful
life with reverence toward God and with proper conduct. And
that makes me want to shout.
S1 (43:14):
What a reminder! You make us want to shout as well. Well,
we got about two minutes left, but with that time,
can you please pray for our governmental leaders?
S5 (43:26):
Almighty God. Author of Liberty. We lift our voices in
prayer for our nation. With reverential awe, we lift up
our leaders in the three branches of our government the
legislative branch, the executive branch, and the judicial branch of
(43:51):
our government. Lord, remind us that righteousness exalts a nation.
That holiness is a national security matter. Mighty God, you
have challenged us to pray for our leaders that we
(44:18):
will be able to live quiet and peaceful lives in
all godliness. You told us in Romans 13 seven, honor
to whom honor is due. Help us to respect those
whom you have placed in positions of leadership. Lord bless America,
(44:45):
land that we love. Stand beside her and guide her
through the night with your light from above. From the
mountains to the prairies to the oceans. White with foam.
Mighty God, we praise you for blessing America, our home
(45:11):
sweet home. We pray this in the sovereign name of
Jesus Christ. Amen. Amen and amen.
S1 (45:22):
Chaplain black, we're so grateful that you are on your post,
praying for our nation each and every day. God bless
you and God bless America as we pray on this
National Day of Prayer. God bless you, sir.
S5 (45:36):
Thank you so much, Chris. God bless you as well.
S1 (45:40):
Friends, I hope that this day has been an encouragement
to your heart. The National Day of Prayer is a gift,
a gift that God has bestowed upon this nation. And maybe,
just maybe, it's in these prayers and petitions that we
see a change of heart, I am convinced. Hopefully you
are as well that God is meticulously sovereign, that he
(46:02):
is in control of all things, that the heart of
the King is still in his hand. And if the
heart of the King is in his hand, and so
is the heart of a president, a vice president, a senator,
Supreme court justice, a governor, a mayor, a husband, a wife,
a son or daughter. So as we pray for America,
we're praying God bless our churches. God bless our families
(46:26):
as well. But I also believe that when his people
pray that he hears from heaven that he'll forgive our
sins and he'll heal our land, if we will turn
from our wicked ways and petition him. So let's continue
to pray throughout this day. Let's continue to trust in
Jesus if you don't know him and today you want
(46:47):
to give your life to him, I want to give
you a number to call 888. Need him. What a
great story to come to Christ on a national Day
of Prayer. Simply dial 888. Need him? Well, until we're
together again next time. As always, remember equipped with Chris
Brooks is a production of Moody Radio, a ministry of
Moody Bible Institute.
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