Pastor Pablo Russi
January 19, 2025
Pray First
Text: 2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
What we do directly determines how we live and lead our lives.
Point 1: The Priority of Prayer
“Prayer should always be our first response and never our last resort.”
Point 2: The Power of Prayer
“Prayer changes things. It’s not just a ritual; it’s powerful.”
God isn’t fazed by your fearless faith—He’s frustrated when you fail to ask for more.
Luke 11:9, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”
Point 3: Boldness Precedes Breakthrough
“Bold prayers honor God, and God honors bold prayers.”
Prayer Promises
• For Peace in Times of Anxiety
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 4:6-7
For God’s Provision for Daily Needs
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 4:19
• For Strength in Difficult Times
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
– Isaiah 41:10
For Wisdom in Parenting and Life Decisions
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
– James 1:5
• For Help When You Feel Overwhelmed
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
– Matthew 11:28-29
• For God’s Care for Your Children
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.”
– Isaiah 54:13
• For Healing in Times of Illness
“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up.”
– James 5:14-15
• For Confidence in Your Work
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”
– Proverbs 16:3
• For Protection Over Your Family
“The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life. The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.”
– Psalm 121:7-8
• For Deliverance from Fear
“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me?”
– Psalm 56:3-4