Aug 3rd 11 Posted by Natalie Nichols

Gov. Rick Perry and The Response: The Merits, Precedents and Arguments Against

Gov. Rick Perry initiated a day of prayer and fasting called The Response: a call to prayer for a nation in crisis. It will take place this Saturday at Reliant Stadium in Houston. We here at Shades of Grace have long advocated prayer for our nation – and special days when we assemble together in prayer and fasting for America. We support Gov. Perry and his courage to call for such a day this... read more

Jan 26th 11 Posted by Natalie Nichols

Fasting Day 14: Praying for Our Government

Paul, in his first letter to Timothy, taught him the proper administration of the local church. Paul also gave instructions for the church’s ministry of prayer. 1 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and... read more

Jul 2nd 10 Posted by Natalie Nichols

America’s Only Hope: Why Aren’t We Utilizing It?

“God likes to see His people shut up to this, that there is no hope but in prayer. Herein lies the Church’s power against the world.” — Andrew Bonar I have a sign in my yard. Having it out and displaying its message is the only reason I’m glad I live on a highway that is frequented with steady traffic. The sign says, “PRAYER, America’s Only HOPE, 2 Chronicles 7:14” If you... read more

May 20th 10 Posted by Natalie Nichols

Concert of Prayer Weekly Prayer Tip: Take Time

Beloved, when was the last time you spent thirty minutes in prayer?  When was the last time you spent thirty minutes watching TV? The place and priority of prayer in our lives is quickly established.  I pray continually throughout the day, as I’m sure you do as well, but this is no excuse for not setting apart time just for prayer. God will not do for us what He would not do for Jesus –... read more

May 6th 10 Posted by Natalie Nichols

National Day of Prayer: Why Pray?

Today is the National Day of Prayer, an event established by an act of Congress that encourages Americans to pray for our nation, its people and its leaders. As you may know, this is our focus each Thursday in the Concert of Prayer. I am passionate about our nation, its history and founding. The fact that we have departed from the principles on which we were founded – the principles by which God’s... read more

Apr 29th 10 Posted by Natalie Nichols

Renew Your Passion to Pray for the Lost: 5 Thoughts from George Mueller

George Mueller Are you praying for loved ones to come to know Jesus Christ? Is your diligence in prayer growing weak? As we continue praying in concert today, I feel that someone is in need of encouragement in their prayer for the salvation of loved ones. How Do I Pray for Lost Loved Ones shares a powerful story of encouragement, with specific scriptures to pray and promises to plead when praying for the... read more

Feb 4th 10 Posted by Natalie Nichols

Kings and Priests: Praying with Authority

God has given us—His disciples, His people—authority by which we determine the destinies of people, of nations and governments. He expects us to use this authority for His glory and our good. If we fail to do so, we will have to answer for the consequences. Our Citizenship Every Christian has dual citizenship. We are a citizen of an earthly nation, subject to its laws and requirements. By spiritual... read more

Dec 17th 09 Posted by Natalie Nichols

Prayer for Revival Cannot Be Answered Until…

“The question arose whether this was not the real reason why our prayers for the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit could not be answered…” I have been deeply blessed by reading Andrew Murray on Prayer, a resource containing six books Murray wrote on the subject. The Holy Spirit has spoken to me through this book in countless ways—one of which occurred last Saturday as I was praying about... read more

Nov 11th 09 Posted by Natalie Nichols

How Do I Pray for Lost Loved Ones?

In today’s concert of prayer, the Holy Spirit is leading me to pray for those who do not know Jesus Christ. For a moving, real-life illustration of the need for your prayer and witness, see My surprise Visitor — I believe this post will motivate you in your prayer for the lost. One of the most helpful, encouraging personal accounts of prayer for lost souls is found in The 2959 Plan by Peter Lord.... read more

Nov 5th 09 Posted by Natalie Nichols

God Promised: Do I Still Pray About It?

The Holy Spirit woke me last Friday with Acts 9, the story of Saul’s conversion. As He opened the scriptures, I was struck by new things in this familiar story. Among them a principle the Lord has been driving home to me lately—that God-given promises and visions require prayer. Even when we respond in faith, confessing, believing, expecting God to act—prayer is still vital. As we pray in... read more