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updated 04/13/2025 Prayer podcasts : for the city | for the officials Nipton City Web Site   Location: On a plaque in the town, it says the town was born in 1905, with the coming of the first train on San Pedro. Los Angeles and Salt Lake railroad. Originally called Nippeno camp after a nearby gold discovery. The name was changed to Nipton after the railroads merged in 1910. For many years the depot was cattle loading station for several local ranches including Yates's ranch, the Walking Box, and Rock Springs Land and Cattle co. The town and depot also supplied numerous mines in the area, becoming a social area for the sparse population in the area. Community facilities included a school, post office, voter precinct and several small businesses. Begun as a 20th century railroad depot, Nipton is reforming into a 21st century gateway to the National Mojave Desert. The town also has a general store, a trading post, the Whistle Stop Cafe, a RV park, five eco-cabins, and ten sites with teepees on them. There is also a historic schoolhouse and art exhibits connected to the Burning Man event. It has railroad tracks on one side and a massive Joshua tree forest on the other. Nipton looks old and new at the same time. The tiny desert town attracts people who like to star gaze, ride motorcycles, take photographs, visit railroads. Demographics estimated population [2024] 24; average age 41; 14% college; 86% high school; $65K average income; 20% poverty; very high days of sunshine; average rainfall 5"; snowfall average 1.4" History | Recent Youtube Town used to be a mining camp; founded on February 9, 1905, with the coming of the first train on the newly constructed San Pedro, Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad. It was called "Nippeno Camp" following a nearby discovery of gold. The name was changed to Nipton when the San Pedro, Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad merged with the Union Pacific Railroad around 1910. In addition to being a cattle-loading station for several local ranches, the town and depot also supplied numerous mines in the area, becoming a social center for the sparse population of the region. In September 2017, Nipton was purchased by American Green Inc., for US$5 million with plans to turn the town into a cannabis tourism destination. The CEO of the company hoped to make this into the first "Pot Town, USA". American Green Inc. sold the town in March 2018 after failing to attract the capital investment necessary to continue the project. The town was sold to Delta International Oil & Gas for a total of $7.7 million in debt assumption and Delta preferred stock, along with a provision that it continue with the project to transform the 80-acre (32 ha) town on the edge of the Mojave Desert into a cannabis-themed resort. As of November 16, 2020, the town was listed for sale again for $2.75 million. Small California Town Just Sold For $2.5M — The Plan To Make It A Tourist Attraction in 2023. The 80-acre town includes a five-room hotel (built around 1905) often visited by silent film star Clara Bow, an original family home, and a general store, town hall, and schoolhouse.Spiegelworld plans to turn Nipton into the center of its operations — and a day trip destination for tourists. “From Pot Town to Place to Stop." Map of Nipton Location of Nipton in SBC Specific Prayer Points Spiritual: Intercessors rise up and pray for this small town, it grows economically, a church rises up, Bible studies arise to bring transformation, that people attending the Burnout Man in nearby Arizona will instead find Jesus to find transformation [not drugs, alcohol, debauchery or any false idol] Governed by: District 1 County Supervisor Schools: none Crime statistics : [2024] overall grade is F; violent crime grade isF; property crime is F and other crime is F; Top crime issues extremely high 93% theft, assault 31%; burglary 28% and vandalism 12% [due to no neighboring cities] Poverty : 33.3% though only 24 people in town [population fluid due to circus performers temporary residency] Points of interest: Burning Man annual event ; C annabis company sells California town it envisioned as a marijuana resort, but pipe dream isn't dead - Los Angeles Times (latimes.com) ; Ivanpah Lake Nipton Is Turned into Circus ‘Disneyland’ - Cali Weekly Churches [not exhaustive] none in city proper nearest churches in Las Vegas & Henderson, Nevada

updated 04/13/2025 Prayer Podcasts: for the city | for the officials Needles City Web Site Location : This city is located near the west side of the Colorado River in the Mohave Valley of the Mojave Desert and near Arizona and Nevada almost 110 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. It is isolated from other cities in the county because of where it is located. Barstow, the nearest city within the county, is separated from Needles by over 140 miles of desert and 2 mountain ranges. The city is accessible via Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 95. It got its name from "The Needles", a group of pinnacles in the Mohave Mountains on the Arizona side of the river. Charles Schulz [Peanuts Cartoon creator and artist] lived in this town when he was young. Demographics : overall crime grade is F [see below for more information]; estimated population [2024] 4,882; 66% white; 13% Hispanic, 12% Native American, 3% African American, 5% other; M:F 50:50%; 43 average age; 53% own home; 47% rent; average home size is 3 people; 15% <high school grad; 41% high school grad; 27% some college; 17% college degrees; 95% speak English; average income $33K; for families $49K. History Founded in 1883, considered one of the oldest communities on the Colorado River. It began with the railroad on Old Trails Highway which later became the famous Route 66). The Mojave Indians lived in the valley; some still do today but are called the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe. After the railroad arrived, Needles got its name from the peaks that looked like needles which came from the perspective of Lt. Amiel Weeks Whipple while doing a government railroad survey in 1854. Once Route 66 occurred followed by Interstate 40, citizens tried to keep the freeway from missing Needles for many years which helped in its economy. Since then, the town has built some dams along the Colorado River; dredged the Colorado river in the early 1950s which aided in stopping the flooding that occurred each spring. This also helped the land become suitable for agriculture and housing. The water became clear and suitable for recreation. Two new industries came to the valley, agriculture and recreation. Needles has also been the scene of two major military maneuvers, General Patton’s Army during World War II, and Desert Strike maneuvers in the mid- 1960s. Today the city encourages winter and summer visitors. Places of interest include East Mojave National Scenic Area offers a vast variety of desert scenes and wildlife. The Colorado River has some of the finest boating and fishing possibilities found anywhere. The Needles Municipal Golf Course, which overlooks the river, is a professional 18-hole course with a driving range, golf carts and pro shop. The Topock Gorge and Havasu Wildlife Refuge area can provide hours of enjoyment. It draws tourist because of the warm year-round climate. “Discover Needles!" Map of Needles Location of Needles in SBC Specific Prayer Points Spiritual: Spirit of repentance fall upon the believers and unbelievers, repent and turn to God and experience transformed lives by the Gospel; healing, deliverance from bondages, intercessors arise and pray for this city, spirit of humility, unity among the people in the churches and with other churches, more people in churches helping and praying, more lives changed by the Gospel, boldness to share their faith, Bible studies for accountability and growth and connection, community outreaches, ways to help the poor among them Governed by: City Council ; District 1 County Supervisor Schools: Vista Colorado Elementary , Needles Middle & High schools, Educational Training Center , Needles Community Day school , Needles Assembly of God church school K-12, Chemehuevi Valley Elementary Crime statistics : [2024] overall crime grade is D-; violent crime is F; property crime is D- and other crime is B-; top crime issues are theft 20% very high; burglary 9%; assault 5% Poverty Rate : [2024] 29.1% [very high 17% over CA avg 12%] Points of interest: East Mojave National Scenic Area, Colorado River, Needles Municipal Golf Course, Topock Gorge and Havasu Wildlife Refuge area Churches [not exhaustive] Calvary Church of Needles - Pastor Craig A. Freitag Church of Christ Needles Seventh-day Adventist Church - James Uyeda, Pastor Needles Christian Church Faith Chapel Church of God

updated 04/13/2025 Prayer Podcasts : for the city | for the officials | for the churches Muscoy City Web Site Suburb of San Bernardino City. Living here offers residents a rural feel and most residents own their homes and tend to lean liberal. Located on the east side of Interstate 215 north of San Bernardino city and Interstate 210. Demographics: est. population [2024] 11,402; 44% rent; 56% own; $251K avg. home price; 44% less than high school grad; 32% graduate high school; 24% had some college or degrees; $46K avg. income; M:F 53:46%; average age 29; rent median $1390; 90% Hispanic; white 6%; black 3%; Asian 1.7%; click on Demographics to see latest news about it. History Developed in the mid-1890s as a community for family agricultural business. Roads and water service were developed to serve one-to-ten-acre parcels. Vineyards, orchards and various field crops were planted and cultivated. After World War II, population growth accelerated, and the area began a transition from agricultural use to a more suburban residential character. During the 1950s and 1960s, the San Bernardino area became a popular stop during road trips. This resulted in more shops opening up to serve the needs of travelers, and more people establishing permanent residences around the Muscoy area. Map of Muscoy Location of Muscoy in SBC Specific Prayer Points **Environmental issues : terrible air quality scores with a CalEnviroScreen burden profile of 96-100%; many people walk and use public transit to get around; streets are often dangerous for people on foot. The poor air quality makes it dangerous for young children, older adults, and people with asthma or other health problems to walk or be active outside. Governed by: District 5 San Bernardino County Schools/District: San Bernardino Unified School district ; Muscoy Elementary; Vermont Elementary; Cesar E. Chavez middle; Cajon High; Crime issues : [2024] overall grade is C+; violent crime C; property crime C-; other crime A-; top crime issues are theft high at 16%; vehicle theft 6%. Poverty rate : [2024] 19.1% [7 above CA avg. 12%]; 38% M; 42% F; 18-59 yrs 35%; children <17 yrs. >40%; 60-74 yrs. >30% [**Highest poverty rate in San Bernardino co.] Points of interest: Safe Routes to Muscoy schools initiative; highest poverty rate Spiritual needs: More churches that are Spanish for the 90% Hispanic population; intercessors to arise and claim this subdivision for Jesus; park ministries to rise up and reach the people who attend them on weekends; the ministers and believers find creative ways to share the Gospel to this highest poverty rate area; churches unite and pray for the lost, the drug issues, the crime, supportive groups to help those recovering from addictions, teachings on how to handle finances; revival that causes families to be transformed by the Gospel and the city reformed by a mighty move of God; for churches to have thriving prayer ministries Churches & Ministries [not exhaustive] Generation's church Community Christian church First Baptist church San Bernardino Baptist church Northpark Baptist church Community Bible church St. Timothy Community church University Park church Church of Jesus Christ Latterday Saints Muscoy Church of Christ Los Pentecostales de San Bernardino Gateway Christian Fellowship Calvary Assembly of God

updated 04/13/2025 Prayer podcasts: for the city  | for the officials   Morongo Valley Chamber of Commerce Web Site Location : off Highway 62 south of Yucca Valley; 40 miles northwest of Palm Springs. It is a census-designated place, near the northern edge of the Coachella Valley, and as such is generally dry. Monsoonal moisture leads to thunderstorms at times during the summer, but in the winter, Pacific storms bring most of the rain. It experienced damage in 2005 from the Paradise Fire which burned seven homes and also damaged some of the walkways in the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. All damage has since been repaired and the preserve remains open for birding and hiking. They have a "healing circle" the Indians developed earlier. Now used for people to pray for healing and/or pray. Demographics : Est. population [2024] 3,907. Median age is 49; M:F 1:1; 50% married; 37% households with children; 72% white; 18% Hispanic; 11% other; median income $53K; Average house is $165K History | Video about it The California Indian Wars occurred from the 1820s to 1850s. This caused a migration of Native American territories, due to the Gold Rush. After the American Civil War ended in 1865, Mojave Desert Indian Campaign retaliated against Chemehuevi raids on miners & ranchers in San Bernardino. This ended in 1870. In 1876, President Ulysses S. Grant, by executive order, created nine reservations in the area, including the one in Morongo Valley. The first official "Captain" of Potrero Ajenio who acted on behalf of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, known to Americans by his English name, John Morongo, was the hereditary leader of a Serrano clan called the Maarrenga'. They are now known as Morongo Valley first known in the 185o's as the “Marengo Pass”. It remained the Marrenga' village of the Serrano Shoshonean clan until 1876, then the U.S. government began relocating the tribes to reservations. As settlers replaced the native Americans, they changed the name to Morongo Valley. The Bureau of Indian Affairs referred to the tribe as the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. It was John Morongo who, in turn, is responsible for the name of the great Morongo Basin in Southern California. “One of the Joshua Tree Gateway Communities." Map of Morongo Valley Location of Moronga Valley in SBC Specific Prayer Points Spiritual: Intercessors rise up and pray for this region, pray for the American Indians; more churches to start, weekly Bible studies for those who work weekends and for accountability; for those who are believers to share their faith, transformed lives by the Gospel, deliverance from bondages, less crime and covid cases, a boldness to share their faith and divine move of God in the city. Governed by: San Bernardino County District 3 ; Morongo Valley Community Services District Schools: Morongo Valley Elementary school in Morongo Valley Unified School District Crime statistics : [2024] overall crime grade is C; violent crime is D+; property crime D+ and other crime is A; top issues are theft at 11% Poverty Rate :  [2024] 22.9%; (891 out of 3.9k people) live below the poverty line, a number that is higher than the national average of 12.4%. The largest demographic living in poverty are Females 6 - 11, followed by Males 45 - 54 and then Females 35 - 44. Points of Interest: Morongo Valley Casino & Resort ; Big Morongo Canyon Preserve; 49 Palms Canyon Trail; Mission Creek Preserve Trail ; Wardman Park, Cabot's Pueblo Museum Churches [not exhaustive] Calvary Road Fellowship [Pastor Monte Wright] other churches nearby are in Desert Hot Springs

updated 04/13/2025 Prayer podcasts: for the city | for the officials | for churches/ministries Mentone Chamber of Commerce web site : An unincorporated community filled with families who take pride in their roots; approximately 6.2 square miles of rural area; elevation 1,650. est. population 9,847 [2020]; a waypoint or a "Gateway" when heading to and from the San Bernardino mountains and ski resorts. Located above Yucaipa off of Interstate 10 or 330; east of Redlands; west is Oak Glen. Demographics of Mentone ; [2024] Est. population 9,487; 43% white; 40% Hispanic; 8% Asian; 4% African American; 601 veterans; 62% own; 38% rent; $310K average cost of home; 28% speak Spanish; 72% English; 88% high school grad; 23% college degrees; $68K average household income; $30K average person income. History | Video Clip of History After the railroads were developed in the 1880s, people sought to move to a place with less cold winters and humid summers from the East when they heard of the “land of sunshine, orange blossoms and healthful living.” In 1886. the Mentone Co. purchased land north of what was then known as Crafton and south of the Santa Ana River. The city's name Mentone came about because it was similar to the climate in the Mediterranean. To market the area, they embellished what it looked like by showing green hills with sheep grazing but in reality, there were rocks from Mentone Beach. In 1888, McIntosh, real estate agent, bought much of the land then the first orange grove and sold land to people who wanted to build homes. The LA Times raved about the area growing fruit in 1891: At the extreme upper end of the San Bernardino valley is the foothill fruit colony of Mentone. It contains 2000 acres, which are practically above the frost and fog line. Over 200 acres were planted last spring, two-thirds of this acreage being oranges and one-third olives.” This article helped Mentone grow. The post office and The Mentone Sandstone Co. started in 1891; the latter making stones for the San Bernardino County jail. Olive groves came next then the Hotel Mentone in 1892, which was said to have the best croquet court in So. Cal. Due to the lack of tourists and business, the Hotel Mentone became a sanitarium for tubercular and asthmatic patients. The LA Times in1900, declared “NEW HEALTH RESORT” and “Local and Other Physicians and Hotel Men to Build a Large Sanitarium Near Redlands” “The Mentone Sanitarium Association has secured a large tract at Mentone about two miles from Redlands to be the most complete and up to date institution of this kind in this part of the country.” Unhappily, it was another failure and the building was taken down in 1917. The people in the community attempted to have a newspaper promoting the area. The Chamber of Commerce boasted it was a place for “sunshine, health and opportunity” in the Mentone News in 1940: “The Mentone area is nationally recognized as a health center. One of the leading citrus sections of California, Mentone ships around one thousand cars of oranges annually. One of the fastest growing communities in Southern California, new homes and population have increased during the past five years, at rates far above the average town.” Despite never living up to the LA Times, community news and other boasts, to be a big-time tourist destination, the residents enjoy the peace and quiet of a smaller town feel and have been known to say, "their little “resort” is just fine the way it is." “Home of the Oranges on the Rocks. A small town feel." Map of Mentone Location of Mentone in SBC Specific Prayer Points Environmental issues: flooding, mudslides during rainstorms Governed by: District 3 SBC County & Community of Mentone Empowered Together []COMET] Schools/District: Redlands Unified School District ; Mentone Elementary; Faith Chapel, Valley Star High school Crime issues : [2024] overall crime grade is C; violent crime C; property crime D+ and other crime B+; top issue is theft at 11.5% Poverty rate : [2024] 11.4% [below CA average 12%] highest rates in 75-84%; children under 6 17% Points of interest: Mentone Matters [city newspaper online] Spiritual needs: Churches unite & experience revival, intercessors rise up, pray and claim this city for Jesus, believers commit to prayer walks through their neighborhoods, prayer groups arise and declare the city reforms on truth not exaggeration, repentance/conviction of sin that transforms lives by the power of the Gospel spoken in boldness, believers to share their faith at work and with friends and service people, churches to unite in prayer for revival and an awakening; external and internal growth by the transforming work of the Lord; evangelistic outreaches that meet the unique needs of this community; creative ways to share online; increase in children, young adults and millennial attendance; enough finances Churches [not exhaustive] Faith Chapel Assembly of God [Pastors Keith & Julie Short] Mentone Congregational Church [Church of Christ; Pastor Rudolph Dimery]; Sandals Church [East Valley; Pastor Justin McVey] Mentone Seventh Day Adventist Amethyst Bible Church [non-denominational] Rocky Point Fellowship [American Baptist]

From September to Election Day, we focus our prayers on the elections and all the issues involved with it. Resources and prayer guides will be listed below along with a topic focus and prayer podcast. If you prayed, post in the comment. Or add a prayer topic or point. “Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. He controls the course of world events; he removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though he is surrounded by light . Daniel 2:20-22 NLT MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY 9/2 - Why pray for the upcoming elections? 9/3 - Voters 9/4 - Voting from 2 Chron. 7:14 mindset - humble & seek God's face 9/9 - Poll workers 9/10 - Ballots 9/11 - Election Integrity 9/16 - Power of our Words re: election 9/17 - Constitution 9/18 - Admitting where we are wrong 9/23 - For Unity & Declaration of Independence 9/24 - CA Ballot Measures Prop 2-6 9/25 - CA Ballot Measures Prop 32-36 9/30 - Voting Machines 10/1 - Election News & Journalist Code of Ethics 10/2 - City Officials 10/7 - County Officials 10/8 - CA State Officials 10/9 - Repent for Healed Land 10/14 - Resource officials [i.e. Fire, Police, etc.] 10/15 - Judicial officials 10/16 - Esther Call 10/21 - Senate, Officers & Committees 10/22 - Congress, House of Representatives 10/23 - Who is really in charge of our nation? 10/28 - God's word for leaders & their authority 10/29 - Local & State officials up for election 10/30 - Judicial Branch Effects on Elections 10/31 - Military Branch 11/1 - Religious Freedom 11/4 - Executive Branch 11/5 - United We Pray 11/6 - United We Stand 11/7 - United in Commission Helpful Resources How to Pray for the Upcoming Election | Articles | Revive Our Hearts Week 35 - (2024) Who are the Good Guys? - City By City ( city-by-city.org ) Sample Ballot Lookup Tool | U.S. Vote Foundation ( usvotefoundation.org ) 10 Prayers for a Peaceful Election Season in America ( christianity.com )

After Israel was in exile, the Lord told them to have a certain mindset and approach to the place where they now lived.  “And work for the peace and prosperity of the city where I sent you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, for its welfare will determine your welfare. ” Jer. 29:7 NLT.  For the month of April and May, we will pray for all the cities in San Bernardino County. And each day for the city where you live using resources on city intercession.    Why pray for other cities than your own? Jesus gave us the reason in Luke 6:38 “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”  As we pray for others our own city will be blessed “ Pray to the Lord for the city, for its welfare will determine your welfare. ” [Jer. 29:7 NLT] Linked Podcasts below | Resources Listed at end | Post a prayer in the Comment Section Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Adelanto; Angelus Oaks Podcast Apple Valley; Arrowbear Podcast Baker; Barstow; Podcast Big Bear City; Big Bear Lake; Podcast Big River; Bloomington; Podcast Chino; Chino Hills; Podcast Cedar Glen; Colton; Devore Podcast Crestline; Dagget; Blue Jay; Podcast Edwards AFB & Fawnskin podcast Fontana podcast Forest Falls & Fort Irwin podcast Grand Terrace & Green Valley Lake podcast Joshua Tree & Lake Arrowhead podcast Highland, Hinkley & Homestead Valley podcast Landers & Loma Linda podcast Lucerne Valley & Lytle Creek Morongo Valley & Havasu Lake Montclair & Mentone Mt. Baldy & Muscoy Needles & Newberry Springs Oak Glen & Nipton & San Manuel Reservation Ontario Oak Hills & Oro Grande Phelan & Pinon Hills Pioneer Town & Rialto Rancho Cucamonga Rimforest & Running Springs San Bernardino Silverlakes [aka Helendale] Spring Valley Lake & Sugarloaf Trona & Searles Valley Twentynine Palms & Twin Peaks Upland & San Antonio Heights Victorville Wrightwood & Yermo Yucaipa & Yucca Valley Resources : 5 Ways to Pray for Your City | Blog | American Bible Society News A Prayer to Change Your City | Kenneth Copeland Ministries ( kcm.org ) Pray for a City or Town | Jericho Walls ( jwipn.com ) 7 Prayer Points to Pray for Your City ( prayerleader.com ) Praying for your city ( newtestamentprayer.org ) Prayers for My City and County | ( tomstuart.org ) Praying for Your City - City Gospel Movements How to Pray for Your City | This Is Our City | Christianity Today A Prayer For A Global City — Redeemer City to City Pray for your city or town - 24-7 Prayer International 19 Uplifting Prayers For My City - For Total Protection ( prayersaves.com ) Resource-Pack-for-Praying-about-Violence-in-our-Nation.pdf ( ifapray.org ) 27 Powerful Prayers For The City - That Brings Protection ( prayersaves.com ) 30 Days of Praying Through Your Neighborhood ( navigators.org ) .

Due to heavy windstorms, the second week in January 2025, fires erupted across Southern California, destroying multiple structures, killing others. Please take a moment to stop and pray for the many fires we are experiencing. Here are some prayer points: No more fires start - still have more winds, early drought, dry conditions throughout, vegetation can spark a fire quickly Containment - most are zero percent Firefighters - need more, most exhausted, need rest, stamina and encouragement Police - highway closures, looters, managing who can and can't go places Water - ran out in some areas Rain - we are in a drought | San Bernardino County Conditions | Drought.gov Winds - to subside long enough to manage fires with air power Evacuees - safe places to go, support from friends and family, comfort, what to do next People who lost homes - time to grieve, help with next steps, comfort, basic needs Go fund me account for neighbor's parents who lost their homes https://gofund.me/c866a67c Fire insurance - some dropped this past year, now what, those who have it would be able to rebuild Animals and shelters - safety and sufficient places Power restored - last checked over 400k without Evacuation center s sufficient places and safe Air quality - people use necessary precautions when outside, toxins are now included in some areas Water - those affected by Eaton fire have been told to not drink or use tap water at all. Only bottled water. Enough bottled water available. Transportation - Semi trucks, high vehicles, in winds, several fell over one driver died, safe travels and cautious Government officials - get resources needed to stop the fires, provide needs to victims and be held accountable for what plans were made or not Resources : Incidents | CAL FIRE https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents for fire conditions & updates San Bernardino, Ca, Usa Conditions | Drought.gov for drought conditions Airnow.Gov for Air Quality conditions

WalletHub wrote an article entitled "Most Sinful Cities in America in 2024". They compared 182 cities using 7 major categories broken down by 38 indicators for illicit behavior. Four of the cities are in San Bernardino County: San Bernardino, Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga and Fontana. Let's seek an awakening of God's people to pray, seek His face, unite in intercession and repentance on behalf of these sins. Let's believe for revival of lives transformed by the Holy Spirit which reform cities. Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land - 2 Chronicles 7:14 Friday, April 11th - San Bernardino Prayer Focus: Economic Prosperity, Education in City, Peace & Reconciliation, Hope in Times of Despair Prayer Podcast Prayer points:  For artists, musicians, writers, performers clean and godly, not satanic or worldly; for compassion when believers see those in need, not condemnation, for people to serve the city of San Bernardino especially the homeless and find creative ways to get them off the streets permanently, keep families united, participate in the community, parents find ways to balance work/life/parenting, ways to involve family in city that teaches good citizenship and philanthropy, gratitude for the city of San Bernardino, the county seat, for the united group of pastors actively seeking city reformation through the preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ, transformation of its people resulting in a city changed. Thursday, April 10th - San Bernardino Prayer Focus: Cultural Enrichment, Environmental Stewardship, Healing of Divisions Prayer Podcast Prayer points:  honor cultural differences and find what unites through Christ, residents and leaders will find ways to beautify the city, clean the parks, streets, highways and neighborhoods from litter, graffiti, a collaborative effort to maintain a clean community, fines and appropriate community service for those who vandalize properties, science ideas to clean the air quality, more trees and drought resistant ways to improve the landscape, water recycled and used in populated areas, use of solar where applicable, healing to any group that has offense, forgiveness and grudges forgiven, love would cover a multitude of sins. Wednesday, April 9th - San Bernardino Prayer Focus: Economic Prosperity, Education in City, Peace & Reconciliation, Hope in Times of Despair prayer podcast Prayer points:  San Bernardino healthy businesses prosper, enough monies allocated to take care of the potholes in the streets, deal with the air quality, economy improves, schools experience revival, all staff in education seek the best for students with godly principles, peace to every part of the city where there has been darkness, confusion or chaos, speak peace over every part that experiences violence, reconciliation with law enforcement and politicians and churches, hope despite the latest findings of the city as dirtiest in the US, let’s pray it becomes a clean city that transforms lives. Tuesday, April 8th - San Bernardino Prayer Focus: Unity, Safety, Protection, Healing & Restoration & Guidance for City Leaders Prayer podcast Prayer points: pray for unity in SB; for safety & protection and those who serve in those areas; for healing & restoration [so many homeless often from mental illness, addictions, mental anguish, scars of injustice] include those who work with them; guidance for city leaders [a daunting job to work thru the quagmire of red tape and remain ethical, believers pray for government officials, no ought against each other]. Resource : 15 Powerful Prayers for Your City – Verse And Prayers CityWide Prayer Event on Apr. 5, 2025 hosted by SB Pastors United https://www.facebook.com/groups/866489293432757/permalink/9416489185099349/ Monday, April 7th - Dirtiest Cities by Consumer Satisfacation Prayer Podcast In the category consumer satisfaction, rankings were as follows reminder 303 US cities/63 CA cities analyzed: San Bernardino 1 in US/CA for worst; Ontario 13 US/5 CA; Fontana 42 US; 14 CA; Victorville 61 US/19 CA; Apple Valley 294 US/59 CA; Rancho Cucamonga 299 US/60 CA. San Bernardino ranked among least healthy counties in CA (Lowest 0%-25%).  In this category they found data on the percent of residents who found their city dirty/untidy; dissatisfied with air & water pollution, garbage disposal and greenery/parks.  Let’s pray for the external issues be addressed by those in leadership and residents will make their voices heard on what dissatisfies them.  On the brighter note, Rancho Cucamonga ranked best in consumer satisfaction the US and CA.   Friday, April 4th - Dirtiest Cities by Infrastructure Prayer Podcast Trash takes center stage when thinking about a city being dirty.  In the category infrastructure SBC cities didn’t rank too poorly: Fontana 189; Victorville 200; Ontario 206; San Bernardino 207; Apple Valley 224 and Rancho Cucamonga 227.  This category is measured by tons of waste in landfills per 100K residents; number of refuse/recycling collectors per 100K residents; Alternative-Fuel Stations per 100K Residents and number of Junk Yards Tons of Waste in Landfills per 100K Residents & Rating of State Waste Regulations and Measures; #1 highest waste in CA over 50% 1,172,625; #2 is LA at 736K; San Bernardino Solid Waste Management Division (SWMD) is responsible for the operation and management of the solid waste disposal system for the largest county in the United States.  Our disposal system consists of five regional landfills and nine transfer stations. Refuse and Recycling Collectors per 100K Residents: 160 facilities; 72 closed; 1 clean closed; 3 inactive; 3 planned; 81 active [42 have notifications to fix something not up to code] Alternative-Fuel Stations per 100K Residents: 5th place for clean vehicle rebates; 385 in SBC; Fontana 16; Ontario 44; Rancho Cucamonga 24; San Bernardino 54 No. of Junk Yards: in SBC there are 193 junk yards Thursday, April 3rd - Dirtiest Cities by Living Conditions Category Prayer Podcast Poor living conditions can impact mental wellness, raise stress levels, can hinder brain development in kids, memory issues, learning difficulties & behavioral problems. To identify dirtiest cities, population density, overcrowded homes, homes with no kitchen or plumbing, homes with issues like mold, mice, rats, cockroaches or sewage disposal, lastly # of unsheltered homeless.   Ontario ranked 52; San Bernardino 56; Fontana 59; Rancho Cucamonga 64; Victorville 116; Apple Valley 118.  Let's pray for creative ways for city officials, county leaders and church members will identify how to improve the living conditions for its citizens. Population Density - SBC has a population density of 106 people per square mile as of 2024.  Overcrowded Homes - SBC worst residential overcrowding rates.  Unsheltered Homeless Rate – SBC had 4,255 homeless in 2024; 1,200 sheltered, 3,055 unsheltered compared to 2023 1219 sheltered, 2976 unsheltered. Cities accounting for 76% of the homeless include with #unsheltered Barstow [87] , Colton [230], Fontana [260], Ontario [163], Redlands [144], San Bernardino [977], and Victorville [326]. Resource: 2024's Dirtiest Cities in America - LawnStarter Blog Wednesday, April 2nd - Dirtiest Cities by Pollution Category Prayer Podcast San Bernardino city ranked NUMBER 1 out of 303 cities as the dirtiest based on all four categories.  Resource: [ 2024's Dirtiest Cities in America - LawnStarter Blog ] Ontario ranked 5; Fontana 23; Victorville 31; Rancho Cucamonga 160 and Apple Valley 172.    Median Air Quality Index : Worst air quality in the US ratio is #US vs #CA in #1 are:  position San Bernardino 1/1; Ontario 5/4; Victorville 16/6; Rancho Cucamonga 22/10; Apple Valley 23/9; Fontana 24/10.  Presence of Water Quality Violations  yes throughout the county; Currently, our region faces challenges with the man-made groups of chemicals per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) exposure to certain PFAS can lead to adverse health effects in humans. Greenhouse-Gas Emissions  (Metric Tons CO2e) per Capita: SBC is in a Greenhouse Gas Reduction plan. that will reduce 7,891 Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalents (MT CO2e) per year from new development by 2030; currently MTCO2e/SP 6.7% with goal to lower to 5.4% by 2040. Annual Excess Fuel Consumption  (Gallons per Auto Commuter): SBC highest rate of people driving alone; driving further to get to work; more delivery trucks due to warehouses & distribution.  Percentage of Smokers  – 13% in SBC almost 275K smokers Tuesday, April 1st - Anger/hatred Highest in Arson, Kidnapping & Animal Cruelty Podcast Arson [burning or charring property on purpose, with malicious or fraudulent intent] – Between .28 to .35% in the following cities Hinkley; Blue Jay; Nipton; Baker; Essex; Mt. Baldy; Newberry Springs; Fawnskin; Sugarloaf; Cedar Glen; Big Bear Lake; Lytle Creek; Lake Arrowhead Kidnapping [abducting someone and holding them captive:] – From .13% to .19% Kramer; Edwards AFB; Randsburg; Pinon Hills; Daggett; Oak Hills; Ontario; Pioneer Town; Lytle Creek; Big Bear City; Running Springs; Phelan; Sugarloaf; Fontana Animal Cruelty [causing harm to an animal whether by purposeful action or neglect] – from .03% to .05% Oro Grande; Nipton; Baker; Essex; Newberry Springs; Yermo; Trona; Daggett; Helendale [Silver Lakes]; Fawnskin; Twentynine Palms; Needles Monday, March 31st - Anger/Hatred Highest in Assault, Robbery, Rape, Murder Podcast Anger & Hatred shows up in violent type crimes. Today we identify and pray for the top 10 cities with the highest rate of assault, robbery, rape, and murder. Assault [physical attack] – Nipton, Baker, Essex 30%; Yermo 17%; Daggett 11%; Oro Grande, Trona, Hinkley, Big Bear Lake 8%; Blue Jay, Pioneer Town, Newberry Springs 7%; Fawnskin & Lucerne Valley 6%. Robbery [larceny often using force, threat or armed] – Essex, Nipton, Yermo, Hinkley, Blue Jay 3%; Daggett, Cedar Glen, Running Springs, Newberry Springs, Lucerne Valley, Needles 2%; Edwards AFB, Big Bear Lake, Sugarloaf, Green Valley Lake, Trona, Pioneer Town >1.6% Rape [with force, threat and lack of consent] – between .5 & .6 % Cedar Glen, Green Valley Lake, Cedarpines Park, Big Bear City, Blue Jay, Big Bear Lake, Lake Arrowhead, Skyforest, Running Springs, Arrowbear Murder [unlawful premeditated killing of one human being by another] - >.1% Yermo, Edwards AFB, Nipton, Baker, Essex, Daggett, Oro Grande, El Mirage, Hinkley, Muscoy, Pioneer Town, Randsburg, Fawnskin Friday, March 28th - Anger/Hatred Categories for Sinful Cities Podcast Anger & Hatred – indicators used in this category include Violent Crimes per 1K residents; Sex Offenders per Capita; Aggravated Assault Offenses Known to Law Enforcement per 1K Residents; Bullying Rate; Hate-Crime Incidents per Capita; Hate Groups per Capita; Deaths due to Firearms per Capita; Number of Mass Shootings; Presence of Terrorist Attacks. San Bernadino Ranked 24 out of 180; third worst in California behind Sacramento & Los Angeles. Ontario ranked 124; Rancho Cucamonga 142 and Fontana at 163. Violent crimes include assault, robbery, rape and murder. San Bernardino had the highest of the 4 for Assault, Robbery & Murder and Ontario had the highest for rape. Let’s pray they will decrease over the next year. Prayer points : Crime decreases; crime grade improves, less violence, less property crime & lower drug crimes; gangs divide & decrease; Central Detention Center, San Bernardino City Jail, Central Valley Juvenile Detention & Assessment Center; Operation Consequences; public safety, Criminals, Prisons reformation by the transforming Gospel, deliverance from gangs & addictions. Thursday, March 27th - T op 10 SBC Cities Highest in Thefts, Burglary & Vandalism Podcast Top 10 Worst SBC Cities by Theft are Nipton 93%; Baker 92%; Essex 90%;Yermo 51%; Dagget 45%; Hinkley 43%; Fawnskin 34%; Kramer 32%; Blue Jay & Lenwood at 31%. Vehicle Theft are Nipton <8%; Baker, Essex & Montclair >7%; Bloomington, Ontario, San Bernardino, Colton, Muscoy & Chino >6% Burglary are Nipton <28%; Baker & Essex 27%; Yermo 13%; Hinkley 11%; Trona, Fawnskin & BlueJay 10%; Edwards & Daggett 9%. Vandalism are Nipton, Baker & Essex 12%; Blue Jay 7%; Yermo 6%; Hinkley, Trona, Fawnskin, Daggett & Lenwood 5%. ID Theft: Nipton, Baker & Essex 3%; Wrightwood, Yermo & Fawnskin 2%; Dagget, Blue Jay, Edwards AFB & Helendale/Silver Lakes >1% Based on these categories, top worst cities for Jealousy indicators include: Nipton, Baker, Essex, Yermo, Fawnskin, Daggett, Blue Jay, Edwards AFB, Lenwood, Hinkley and Trona. Notably most of these towns are remote, out of sight, not high in population, not nearby law enforcement stations. Of the Four cities analyzed for jealousy – San Bernardino highest theft, burglary & vandalism; Ontario highest vehicle theft; Rancho Cucamonga highest ID theft. Let’s pray for thefts, ID theft, vehicle theft, burglary, and vandalism crime statistics all decrease in frequency and quantity. Wednesday, March 26th - SPECIAL CITY-WIDE PRAYER EVENT COMING UP San Bernardino Pastors United [SBPU] is inviting all residents of San Bernardino [and county], including our civic and community leaders, business owners, pastors and churches to unite with us to pray for our city. [San Bernardino is the seat of the county]. As we come together, we will pray for our leaders to receive Godly wisdom, for business to prosper, and for families to be made whole and healthy. We will declare a greater release of miracles, healings, and deliverance at every level of San Bernardino city. Come and stand with pastors as we come together to declare that this year will mark a turning point in the city. Saturday, April 5 at 10am - San Bernardino City Hall - 290 N "D" Street Free parking available at corner of Court Street and "E" Street. Tuesday, March 25th - Prayer Podcast Jealousy Indicators WalletHub analyzed thefts per 1K residents; Identity theft per capita; fraud and other complaints per capita.  In the last 3 years all four cities got worse.  San Bernardino ranked 102 [2022]; 90 [2023] and 85 in 2024. Ontario ranked 140 in 2022; 119 in 2023 and 124 in 2024 improved between 2023-24. Rancho Cucamonga ranked 149 in 2022; 124 in 2023 and 129 in 2024 improved between 2023-24. Fontana ranked 163 in 2022; 149 in 2023 and 150 in 2024 improved between 2023-24.   Prayer points:  Crime rates go down in all stealing categories in each city; outreaches that address stealing; sentences for thieves to work & payback what they stole to the victims; more graffiti laws in each community; citizens vote to ensure vandals fix, pay for, or paint over damaged items; task forces to find vehicles faster esp. for those selling parts for more evil; greater education for cybercrime preventions, more cyber PI experts to identify criminals; where there are no city council, county supervisors create teams to address the problems & prevent Friday, March 21st - Prayer Podcast Vanity by Tanning Salons, Plastic Surgeries, Sex Reassignment Prayer points : People will be filled with an awe and reverence from the Lord, the fear of the Lord would be honored more than outward appearance, people would see their value in God more than in how they look, tanning salon owners/workers required to notify clients of potential harm from tanning beds i.e. cancer, premature aging, immune system compromised; plastic surgeons not push unnecessary/costly procedures; laws to protect minors from getting reassignment surgery; education of health issues on the surgery, exposure & expelled if done solely for the money, laws passed it can’t be done as a minor, more teachings on beauty skin deep by families and churches. Thursday, March 20th - Prayer Podcast Lust by Tinder Searches & Teen Birth Rate Prayer points : People review apps for safety features before using, Christians pray before using an online dating app, higher standards required when using the apps [i.e. conservative pictures, nothing abusive, aggressive, immoral allowed in conversations]; apps used for sexual immorality would diminish in use; people delivered from sexual addictions, revival among those developing, promoting & using the apps, teen births continues to decrease in rate; abortions among teens decrease, more education on the option to adopt; increase promotion of abstinence before marriage at home, in school and at church. Wednesday, March 19th - Prayer podcast Lust Adult XXX Entertainment Prayer points : Less adult entertainment establishments replaced with a healthy business; people who own will get saved & change the business; people attending these place on ground or online will be convicted and delivered and set free; those who are victims from sex trafficking will be found, counseled, healed, released and find new edifying work, those who succumb to this work for the money will see its long term damage to multitudes; takers get penalties more than the ones supplying. Tuesday, March 18th - Prayer Podcast Laziness HS Dropout & Unemployed Prayer points : Increase in grad rates, decrease in drop outs, ways to help students stay in school and be motivated, more intervention for those who drop out with disabilities; more parents take an active role in child’s education, those 16-24 able to find jobs and better work ethics, more teachings, Bible studies, family discussions on the benefits of working versus being lazy, break the stronghold of entitlement, pride and arrogance, more understanding of God’s love vs selfishness. Laziness – Total Points: 14.3 High School Dropout Rate : In SBC 2.6% dropped out county wide; San Bernardino 2.6%; Ontario 2.6%; Rancho Cucamonga 1.6%; Fontana 1.5%; Worst in county is Trona Joint Unified at 58.5%; Victor Valley Union High at 5.9%; Barstow Unified at 3.4%; Lucerne Valley Unified 3.1%. Disconnected Youth  (16-24) Rate [not in school nor working] by city: San Bernardino  unemployed 16.7%;  No diploma 27%; 31% HS grad; 27% some college; 14% college degree. Ontario 4.1% unemployed; 24% no diploma; 27% HS grad; 22% some college; 25% college degree Rancho Cucamonga  3.4% unemployed; 8.5% no diploma; 19% HS grad; 25% some college; 47% college degree Fontana 4.2% unemployed; 23% no diploma; 28% HS grad; 23% 26% some college; college degree Monday, March 17th Podcast: Laziness: Amount Watching TV vs Volunteering Volunteer Rate : 30% formally volunteer, 40% fundraising, 34% food distribution. Top causes in order 1 to 6: hunger/homelessness, health/wellness; faith/spirituality; animal/wildlife, children/youth, environment/conservation. Avg. 52 hours/year; baby boomers highest percentage; women more than men. Volunteers benefit with a stronger sense of unity, improved overall physical and mental health and aids to resume building. Avg. Daily Time Spent Watching TV by hours : By age group: 18-34 [1.37]; 35-49 [3.24]; 50-64 [5.43]; 65+[7.14]; all adults 4.16 [FYI comparison interact with smartphone avg. 3.30 hrs/day in addition to TV] Prayer points : More people would volunteer at churches, see its importance and value to the body of Christ; more education on why helping others benefits health emotionally, spiritually and mentally; increase in volunteers for good causes; opportunities to build relationships with people outside their comfort zone; the kindness, sacrifice and love displayed would improve communities, volunteers touted more in ads, movies, shows; church volunteers see it as every member being part of a family and all are needed; TV filters used; people would monitor what and how much they watch, is it redeeming the time. Scriptures : Lk. 6:38; Heb. 13:16; 2 Cor. 9:7; Rom. 12:2; Jms.4:4; Matt. 6:2; 1 Jn. 2;15 Friday, March 14th Podcast - Laziness: Adults not Exercising & Avg. Weekly Hours Worked What qualifies a sinful city as lazy? WalletHub identified six contrasting indicators: adults not exercising vs. avg. weekly hours worked [we added commute time]; volunteer rate vs avg. daily time watching TV; and high school dropout rate & disconnected youth. The ranks of the 4 cities in SBC are San Bernardino [16] up from 23 last year; Ontario [38] down from 30 last year and Fontana [40] up from 57 last year and Rancho Cucamonga 106 down from 105 last year. The Bible reminds us not to be workaholics and that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Let’s pray people balance work and body care appropriately so it won’t take a toll on their health and families. Share of Adults Not Exercising: SBC has a countywide campaign called Vision 2BActive; educating and encouraging people to increase their physical activity. In a typical week, youths 5-17 should be physically active at least 60 minutes/day; adults 30 moderate daily 5 days/week. Currently 34% youths meet the goal and only 23.5% adults. Facts: 75% SBC residents live within 1 mile of a local park, 5 miles from a regional, state or federal park. Average Weekly Hours Worked: National average is 34.6 hours/week; SBC averaged 35.5 for the last 12 months. Found average commuter time/week by city: San Bernardino [28.9 hrs]; Fontana [34 hrs]; Ontario [31.5]; Rancho Cucamonga [32.2]. Thursday, March 13th - Excesses/Vices of Obesity, Fast Food & Caffeine In SBC, 7 out 10 adults or 69% are overweight or obese.  Students in grades 5th, 7th & 9th showed 4 out 10 overweight or 43%; 23% at health risk; 20% need improvement.  Top obese school districts: Fontana 49.4%, San Bernardino 48.5%, Rialto  & Colton 48.4%, Victor 44.7%.  Fast-Food Establishments per Capita in SBC.  There are 1,050 Fast Food Restaurants serving 2,121,220; that’s 1 per 2,020 people & 1 per 19 sq. miles. Top cities with most: Ontario 132; San Bernardino 99; Rancho Cucamonga 96; Fontana 95.  Share of Adult Coffee Drinkers - how much is too much? More than 4 cups brewed coffee, 10 cans of cola or two "energy shot" drinks. Let’s pray all of these statistics improve with less people overweight/obese; less fast food establishments and more healthy options, moderation in coffee drinking no matter what form it’s taken. Wednesday, March 12th - Excesses/Vices of Smoking & Poverty Next indicators of a sinful city are smoking and debt-to-income ratios which demonstrate a poverty rate.  Smoking cigarettes in California declined among adults in the last 5 years but increased in the number of youths who used other vices like hookah, e-cigarettes & vaping machines.  In our county, Adult Smokers are 13% in SBC [increased by 2%]; CA avg 9%; US avg 15%, 18% high school students used e-cigarettes/vaping machine 1/x daily.     Average poverty rate in CA is 12%.  Thirty cities in San Bernardino County are above 12%. Those above 20% include the following from highest down: 32% Lucerne Valley; 29% Needles; 29% Mt. View Acres; 26% Morongo Valley; 24% Homestead Valley; 23% Barstow; 22% Joshua Tree; 20% Yucca Valley; 20% Lenwood. For the four sinful cities in SBC: 10% Fontana; 12% Ontario; 19% San Bernardino; 9% Rancho Cucamonga. Prayer points : Continued education on the harms of smoking; more education on vaping to youth; decrease in number of adults/youth who smoke any type; churches find creative ways to not only feed the poor, but also help them learn how to manage their income; schools return to teaching budgets, community colleges offer classes on how to save/spend affordably; more teaching from pulpits on scriptural money management principles; people would take some of these poorest cities and pray for them for a month or year; of the 10 poorest cities 4 legalized cannabis distribution in all forms; for the city councils to see the correlation to poverty and use of it; find alternative ways to build their economy and income. Tuesday, March 11th - Excesses/Vices of Marijuana, Opioids & Drug Overdoses Cannabis : In San Bernardino County, 6 cities allow retail of cannabis; 18 cities prohibit retail; 4 cities allow distribution; 20 cities prohibit it; 5 cities allow manufacturing, cultivating & testing and 19 cities prohibit all three.  The 3 cities that allow for all aspects are Adelanto, Barstow & Needles.  Colton allows manufacturing & Testing only. San Bernardino city allows retail and limits distribution, manufacturing, cultivating & testing. Hesperia allows only retail for medical use only. Fontana limits the retail by storefront & delivery.  Last year in the US, the number of drug overdose deaths  decreased by almost 3K; yet 105K still died from it.  Opioid prescriptions  also decreased from almost 132 million to almost 126 million.  Let’s pray for a continued decrease in the deaths/prescriptions and for those SBC cities who allow cannabis distribution to consider the effects cannabis has in their community and county. Prayer points : more education on risks/harms of MJ use; drug enforcement agencies able to crack down on illegal distribution of drugs esp. fentanyl, more people voice their opinions against drugs at city hall meetings boldness and courage to believers to speak up, more informed with data to prove the problems, prevention programs in churches, education in Christian schools about harms, more education on opioid addictions/risks, awaken people to the truth and set them free from the addictions, transformed lives by the gospel.   Monday, March 10th - Excesses/Vices of Drinking & DUIs San Bernardino City ranked 25/180 for excesses/vices that use 10 categories which included excessive drinking and DUI fatalities. This included binge drinking which means consuming 5 or more drinks on an occasion for men or 4 or more drinks for women; associated with serious injuries and diseases & risk of alcohol use disorder. Last year California had more than 200,000 DUI-related crashes, resulting in over 280,000 injuries and more than 4,000 fatalities. San Bernardino County held the 4th position in the state for most DUI arrests. Of the 5,631 arrests; 6 were felonies; 3 juvenile and the rest misdemeanors. There were 406 DUI fatalities. Excessive Drinking - By age alcohol use past month: 12-17 [6%]; 18-25 [45%]; 26+ [50%]; Binged alcohol past month: 12-17 [4%]; 18-25 [28% ]; 26+ [21% ]; drank alcohol 1-2x/week: 12-17 [47% ]; 18-25 [45% ]; 26% [49% ] Prayer points : more education about dangers & health risks of binge drinking; harder rules in colleges specifically CSUSB; Loma Linda University; Chaffey Community college; Victor Valley Community college; University of Redlands, tough love documentaries about DUI fatalities, victims injured to speak up or who lost a loved one; more on social media about it; less DUI fatalities; more law enforcement car checks; the freeway marquis to post about not drinking; that there is no tolerance when caught; MADD speaks to schools; more celebrate recovery groups open to the public Friday, March 7th - Anger/Hatred Fontana Prayer Podcast About City : Fontana ranked Ranks 137/180 most sinful cities overall improved from 134; 163/180 for anger/hatred improved from 154 last year; Overall crime grade is C-; violent crime C-; property crime D; other crime A-; top issues theft 14% Prayer points : drug crimes in Fontana decrease, crime grade improves, those selling, marketing, making and distributing the drugs be caught, sentences harsh enough to cause restraint of future crimes, confusion in the camps of gangs & cartel, South Fontana and Mexican Mafia prison gang La Eme decrease in size & power, Fontana Police Department ethical, just, wise and captures criminals, give them seeing eyes, motivated by law & justice not vengeance, balanced lives with family & work, integrity, more preventive programs, churches pray & help Thursday, March 6th - Anger/Hatred Rancho Cucamonga Prayer Podcast About City :  Rancho Cucamonga ranks 131/180 cities overall it improve by one from last year and went from 139 to 142/180 for anger/hatred; crime grade overall C-; violent crime C; property D other B+; top issues theft at 13% and vehicle theft at >5%. Prayer Points:  the truth of God’s word penetrates the hearts of those planning crimes, set free from sexual, drug and alcohol addictions, more firearms caught in Operation Rescue; more task force finds, decrease in property and vehicle theft, strong convictions and sentences that puts a fear in criminals, punishment worthy of the crime, reformation in prisons, churches/ministries pray for prisoners and have programs to help juveniles not become criminals, conflict management classes taught in prisons and schools, In RC: West Valley Detention Center, Superior Courthouse of CA in RC, judges, defense lawyers & prosecutors. Wednesday, March 5th - Anger/Hatred Ontario Prayer Podcast About City :  Ontario ranks 125/180 cities overall for most sinful was 115 last year so it improved; For anger/hatred category it ranked 124/180 was 106 last year.  Both improved.  A crime occurs every 1 hour (on average); the overall crime grade is C-; violent C; property D+; other C. Top issues are 13% drug crimes; theft 12%; vandalism 7%;  vehicle theft 6%. Pray for the Anger/Hatred Indicators to decrease : Violent Crimes; Sex Offenders; Aggravated Assault; Bullying; Hate-Crime & groups; Deaths due to Firearms; no Mass Shootings; no Terrorist Attacks Prayer Points [control anger] : salvation, deliverance, holding their tongue, self-control, slow to anger, stop arguing, quick to listen to understand, quiets contention, crime grade improves, drug crimes decrease, Ontario Police Department, Drug task forces: Inland Empire Clandestine Lab, Inland Regional Narcotic Enforcement, Drug Enforcement, High-Intensity Drug Trafficking, Ontario City jail, Prison Fellowship, Kairos, Jesus is the Key prison ministries. [Prov. 14:16; 15:4; 15:18; 16:32; 19:11; 29:11; James 1:19; Eph. 4:30-31] Tuesday, March 4th - Anger/Hatred San Bernardino Prayer Podcast Info : Ranked 47 out of 182 and got worse by 9 spots since 2022. Ranked the 4th most sinful city in CA. For anger/hatred category, the city improved over last 3 years was from 15 to 24. Major problem areas drug crimes 42% very high for county and state. Pray about : Crime decreases in violence, sex offenders, aggravated assault, bullying, hate-crime, hate groups, firearm deaths, mass shootings, terrorism; crime grade improves, less violence, less property crime & lower drug crimes; gangs divide & decrease; Central Detention Center, San Bernardino City Jail, Central Valley Juvenile Detention & Assessment Center; Operation Consequences; public safety, Criminals, Prisons reformation by the transforming Gospel, deliverance from gangs & addiction, Fatherhood programs succeed and increase, The Mom and Dad Project grow & graduate parents via court orders. Repent/Scriptures : uncontrolled anger, revenge, bitterness, offenses, malice, slander, obscene talk, quick-tempered, quarreling, act before thinking, hating anyone [ Psalm 37:8; Eph. 4:26-27 James 1:20; Col. 3:8; Prov. 14:29; 1 Tim. 2:8; Ps. 4:4; 1 Jn. 3:1] Sources:   Most Sinful Cities in America in 2025 ; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, National Transportation Research Nonprofit (TRIP), Numbeo, Other LawnStarter Studies, Salvage-Parts.com , Texas A&M Transportation Institute, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Three California Cities Rank Among The 'Dirtiest' In America - NewsBreak

One of the seven major US cultural influences in society is arts, entertainment and sports. Much money, time, talk and resources revolve around them. As with anything, we need to be careful to redeem the time.  Like Paul warned the Ephesians [5:15-16] ... Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” Feb. 28th - Video Games [Self-Controlled or Controlled?] Part II Prayer podcast: Praying players & parents would create margins of play based on the pros/cons Prayer Points/Scriptures: Time – how much spending? Is it best use of time? Is time wasted? Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly but understand what the Lord wants you to do . [ Eph. 5:16-17 ] Content – Would Jesus play this with me? Why or why not? Does it help or hinder a person’s walk with the Lord? Could you play this around children?  I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar. I hate all who deal crookedly; I will have nothing to do with them . [ Ps. 101:3 ] Boundaries – What type of margins should one apply for costs, time, who to play with? If sitting, for how long for your health? [Refer to 1 Cor. 6:12] Personal Challenge : Honestly answer the following questions before playing: Will it edify or entertain me? Am I  obeying self-will or God’s will? Does the game glorify God? Will playing result in good works? Does it help me exhibit self-control? While playing, does it redeem the time? Does it pass Phil. 4:8 frisk test? Will playing fit in with your life goals? Does it help give an eternal focus? Feb. 27th - Video Games [To play or Not to Play?] Part I Prayer podcast: Praying for ESRB, Ratings, Categories, Developers to have Higher Standards Prayer Points/Scriptures: Entertainment Software Rating Board [ESRB]; Ratings: EC; E; 10+; T; M; A; RP; Rating Categories: Use of Substances; Blood/gore & Violence : 1 Peter 3:9  Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.; Hosea 4:2   2  There is only cursing, lying and murder, stealing and adultery; they break all bounds, and bloodshed follows bloodshed. Humor : Proverbs 17:22 -  A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. And Ephesians 5:4 - 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.; Language : Colossians 3:8 - But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips Gambling:   1 Timothy 6:10  - For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. Nudity & Sexuality:  “But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people.” ( Ephesians 5:5 ) Game Developers & Those Rating the Games : Ps. 11:5 The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked. He hates those who love violence. Personal Challenge : Review the categories above used by the ESRB to rate video games.  Which ones should you not play if they have those elements? Feb. 26th - Celebrities in Music, Sports, Movies, Theaters Prayer podcast: Praying for celebrities: musicians, athletes, actors & actresses [Deliver them from Evil] Prayer Points/Scriptures: Musicians – Salvation; more songs pure, inspire, encourage, express what we can’t but better, keep them from temptation; deliver them from evil, higher standards & morals in how they live and conduct themselves in performances [Ps. 68:25 & 1 Chron. 15:16] Athletes – safety & protection, perform ethically, same sex only play in high contact sports, teamwork vs. self-promotion, ethical, moral standards, salvation, able to overcome temptations of fame, fortune & fans [1 Cor. 9:24 & 1 Tim. 4:8] Actors/Actresses –  salvation, able to play roles with moral standards, courage to say no to parts that promote evil, able to overcome temptations, balance family/work life, better role models, delivered from evil, protection from fans & paparazzi   [1 Jn. 1:11 & James 1:22-25] Personal Challenge :  Pick your favorite musician, athlete and actor and pray for God to reveal Himself to them and deliver them from evil. Feb. 25th - Grammys, Emmys, Oscars Prayer Podcast: Reformation & Purification of the Emmys, Grammys & Academy Awards Prayer Points/Scriptures:  Repentance;  Salvation;  Less people listen and/or watch Romans 12:1-2 ; Reached with the Gospel in many ways including visions of Jesus Christ;  Arguments upended by the Truth 2 Cor. 10:3-5 ;   Unholy Award Ceremonies Performance fizzle out; more people abhor it and speak up about it; Ecclesiastes 7:5 ;    Reformation of the Grammys - James 4:4 ; Y ou adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Personal Challenge :  Pray for one secular music artist who doesn’t know Jesus.  Use the following Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.  Dear Lord, Thank you for being the only way for us to receive salvation from the punishment for our sins. Please open ____’s heart to see the truth that You are the only way of salvation. Allow him to comprehend that the only way he will be saved for all eternity from the punishment for his sins will be by trusting the name and redeeming work of Jesus Christ. In Your Holy Name, Amen Feb. 24th - TV Cable & TV networks Prayer Podcast : Lifting up staff behind shows; viewers abide by TV ratings; HPN’s growth Prayer Points/Scriptures: Staff – [writers, directors, owners, costume, make-up, etc.] salvation, higher standards, believers share their faith; Christians pray together; model their faith; better morale, not fall prey to many temptations, lust of the flesh, eyes & pride of life. 1 Jn. 2:16 Parental Guidance Ratings – TV-Y; Y7; Y7FV; G; PG; 14; MA [V-Violence, S-Sex, L-Language, D-suggestive dialogue] Parents and viewers pay attention to ratings; have boundaries what not to watch; those rating the shows do so with integrity; children, teens and parents agree to discuss why shows negatively impact them. Col. 3:5-8 Hollywood Prayer Network – more people commit to pray vs. complain; more join the network [it’s global]; more resources for those in the entertainment industry to stay pure; specific guides with prayer points that meet the needs of the entertainers/staff; model Christlike behavior among unbelieving entertainers. Col. 4:2-6 Personal Challenge: Next time you complain about a show, take the time to ask for forgiveness then pray for all those who put it together. Phil. 2:14 Do everything without complaining and arguing Feb. 21st - Streaming Services Prayer Podcast : For streaming sites – clear ratings, more family & clean options, consumers filter content and costs Prayer Points/Scriptures: Content Filters - Clear markers that show content rating for music & shows ;  services provide more programming based on healthy choices; strong parental controls - Psalm 101:3 (NIV) Charting Site – Simple navigation to choices based on personal preferences; able to find cleaner shows & music early on; not push evil agenda; Eph. 5:11-15 [NLT] Consumer Costs  – services charge reasonably; consumers recognize amount spent on entertainment; addiction doesn’t pre-empt paying for needs ; Prov. 21:20 [NLT] Personal Challenge : Whether you use a streaming service, choose one of the top video and music and pray the consumers cry out for cleaner material and the streamers meet that desire. Feb. 20th - Web Site Break due to Family ER Feb. 19th - Christian Music Podcast : Praying for those behind Christian Music [Lyricists, Artists, Musicians, Record Labels] Prayer Points/Scriptures :  Lyricists – able to be creative in their lyrics; words would reach believers to encourage, comfort, challenge, convict; messages would reach unbelievers with the Gospel[James 5:13];  Artists – creative ways to sing the lyrics in a way that captures the hearts of the hearers, health/safety over their vocal chords, balance of time with family/friends and time with the Lord, able to resist temptation, remain humble [Col. 3:16];  Musicians – Able to play unique sounds from their instruments, unified, able to play together with harmony and creativity that supports the singers; clever & innovative ways to make sounds that glorify God; protection from demonic influence [Ps. 150:3-6];    Record Labels – Able to distribute to new groups beyond; creative marketing to reach the lost; protected from the love of money; Godly wisdom in running the business; able to find best singers who can reach the world for Christ and encourage believers to worship & praise [1 Chron. 15:16 ] Personal Challenge : Pray for your favorite Christian artist.  Pray for those involved with the current song/lyrics that ministers to you right now. Feb. 18th - Secular Music Podcast : Praying for higher standards to those involved in making/listening to Secular Music Lyrics/Content – not evil propaganda, not from the devil, promotes good not evil, have better ratings for parents and adults, more messages that promote inspiration, healthy love, kindness to others, that songs containing violence, swearing, sex, alcohol & drug abuse, be labeled and banned, for higher standards in the industry Singers/Musicians – sing & play honorable words; less motivated by violence, sex, vulgarity and debauchery; protect their voices, help musicians support the singers(s) and other band members; for their salvation, deliverance from drugs/alcohol, love of money & immorality, for the public to cry out for good models Listeners – Christians challenge the lyrics against Phil. 4:8 [true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, worthy of praise]; to ask would Jesus listen to it; for unbelievers to censor the lyrics; to look at what they listen to and question it’s value and affects in their lives; parents review content of what their children listen Personal Challenge : What secular music do you listen to? What does it cause you to think on – things of the earth or heaven? Good or evil? Tempted to do something against God’s will or to appreciate God’s talents to those who put together the song? Feb. 14th - Movie & "Live" Theaters Entertainment Prayer Focus: All those behind the content shown at Movie & Stage Theaters Prayer Points/Scriptures: Movie Theaters  – less R rated; more family friendly films; clean environment; volume remains safe for ears; more movie goers choose better content; corporations who own the franchise of theaters have higher moral standards; patrons conduct themselves with respect to others; cell phones off; salvation of workers, managers & owners; sex not allowed in theaters; ensure under age not watching R & NC17  - Ps. 101:3 Motion Picture Association of America [MPAA] – rates films appropriately; public outcry for better films, less indecency, more G & PG rated films; PG rated films not include R rated material, keep within the boundaries of each rating - 1 Cor. 6:12 Stage Theatres  – patrons choose clean performances; more family friendly acts; platform allowed for Christian as well as secular talent; safety of performers; salvation to owners, managers & performers; types of plays not immoral; contains healthy humor; thought-provoking not incite hostility; artists who sing or dance or do something creative is clean; doesn’t encourage immorality; patrons show appreciation for performers – Col. 3:5 Personal Challenge : Next time you watch a movie at a theater or at a live stage, pray for the people involved and the content portrayed.  When driving by a theater, lift up a prayer for it to be used for healthy entertainment. Feb. 13th - Christian Film Industry Entertainment Prayer Focus - Christian Film Production Companies [Reaching the Unreached] Prayer Points/Scriptures: Audience  – more people watch, reaches secular and Christian viewers, receptive, shares with others, promotes them to believers/non-believers; brings to Christ and/or grows in faith; 2 Peter 3:9 Films  – creative, unique, innovative, compelling, persuasive, quality acting/filming, secular and Christian actors perform well, scenes challenge arguments against God; 2 Cor. 10:5 Gospel  – preached without shame; clear, penetrating, creatively presented for different age groups; Rom . 1:16 Directors/Producers – Choose content that will make people think about the Lord, purity vs. immorality, courageous faith, right decisions in a dark world, challenge both the believer and unbeliever to grow in the knowledge of God; 2 Peter 3:18 Personal Challenge : Consider your choice of films.  Are you supporting the ones that promote the Gospel? Choose one of the top Christian film producing companies from the list above and pray for them.  Feb. 12th - Secular Film Industry [Garbage In Garbage Out or Good In Good Out] Podcast : Praying for secular film industry staff, content and influence. Prayer Points/Scriptures: Staff  – saved, delivered from evil, set free from addictions, higher standards, better morals, transformation and reformation in the industry [Col. 3:17 & 2 Cor. 5:17] Content – better material, family friendly, inspirational, thoughtful, provoke to good behavior, documentaries that inform without inciting violence, healthier scripts, clean humor, creative ideas that foster better citizenry, less sensational, more educational; responsibility to help not harm people nor children [Prov. 17:22; Luke 17:2] Influence –  less images of violence, murders, accidents, blood, gore, stabbings, disturbing images, sexual situations; viewers recognize real from fiction; monitor quantity and quality of films; aware how it impacts sleep, dreams, feelings, mental health, fears; more so in children Ps. 101:3a; 2 Tim. 1:7; Prov. 3:31 Personal Challenge : Next time you choose a film; stop before watching, pray you will turn off anything that is offensive to God and then pray for those who made the film. Feb/ 11th - Fairgrounds Podcast: Praying for events at SBC Fairgrounds to be family friendly, safe & free from crime. Prayer Points/Scriptures:   Concerts & Shows – [strolling entertainers, clowns, jugglers, live bands; ] family friendly, G/PG rated; not risqué;  Psalm 101:2-3 Livestock Show – [ FFA and 4-H youth Jr. Livestock Auction select, purchase, feed, and groom livestock to be  real life stock to be, graded and sold at fair; include steers, lambs, hogs, rabbits and poultry] Prov. 12:10 Exhibits competition – [ Home Brew Contest, Preserved Foods, Home Arts, Ceramics & Plaster craft, all Crafts, Miniatures, Models, Collections, Fine Art, Photography and all Youth & 4-H] Ex. 35:10 Horse Racing -  [ Thursday through Sunday Live Satellite Wagering watch, bet live horse racing from all over the world in only simulcast wagering Facility in the High Desert region of California] Prov. 13:1 Wheel2Wheel Raceway is a 1/8 mile 7 degree banked oval dirt raceway located at the SBC Fairgrounds in Victorville. W2W races speedway sprints, dirt karts and mowers throughout the entire season.  1 Cor. 9:24 & Phil. 2:3-4 Personal Challenge : Whether you choose to visit the county fair or not.  Take a moment to pray for it, when you hear it or others advertise.  Pray for the law enforcement, the staff, the bodyguards, and all the young and old who participate in the events. Feb. 10th - Christian vs Secular Concerts Podcast : Praying for the environment, purpose and safety at Christian & Secular Concerts Prayer Points/Scriptures: Environment – people consider where venue held; what type of people will attend; what will be allowed/not; worship of God or man - 2 Cor. 3:17 vs James 3:16 Purpose – bold gospel messages, worship encouraged, clean entertainment preferred over those promoting evil; fans recognize the motives of the artists/bands - 1 Thess. 2:4 vs. Prov. 21:2 Safety – security guards, people prepare for potential dangers, drugs, drunkenness, open sex prohibited; educate audience before concerts, safety precaution signage posted conspicuously; Prov. 18:10 vs. Prov. 14:16 Personal Challenge : Read this article Christian Concerts vs. Secular Music Events: What's Different? (fanawards.com) . Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you when deciding and paying for attending a concert. Feb. 7th - Superbowl & Half Time [Sports & Entertainment] Podcast : Praying for the upcoming Super Bowl 2025 – the teams, viewers, performers Teams  – Chiefs/Eagles; pray for the Christians athletes to be bold in sharing their faith with godly behavior & not fall prey to temptations; for Chaplains to reach the non-believers for Christ; for their salvation; open doors; open hearts. Hold to high standards in behavior before/after the game.  [ Romans 1:16 ] Viewers  – behave respectfully, praise the players who demonstrate good sportsmanship i.e. helping opponent off the ground; giving team glory when a win is made; not yelling at refs; take the opportunity to share their faith with those they are watching with; filter what they watch before game; commercials & during half-time. [ 1 John 2:15-17 ] Performers : Kendrick Lamar [strong language] main performer; with SZA [sensual videos] and Jon Baptiste [Christian] sing National Anthem [ Ps. 101:2-4 ] Athletes in Action hosts a breakfast before the game; pray for the gospel to be shared; able to encourage other athletes to join; for speakers to honor God and share their faith boldly; for the organization to reach their dream to see Christ-followers on every team, in every sport, in every nation and able to help athletes find a relationship with Jesus and use their platform to make a difference in the world. [ Matt. 28:19-20 ] Personal Challenge : If you plan to watch the game, pray in advance to avoid the temptations from the performances, commercials and game upsets.  Ask God how you can be a good model of Christ, if watching it with others.  If you aren’t watching it, pray for people to not imbibe in ungodly behavior and for believers to be bold in witnessing their faith on the field. Feb. 6th - Speedways Auto & Motocross Podcast : Praying for the Fans, Racers, Tracks & Ministries focused on Auto & Motocross racing·         Drivers  – salvation, Christians model Christ well & with integrity/purity; able to overcome temptations; safety when driving; their pit crew & helpers safe & alert Fontana Auto Club Speedway  – continues to be free to televise & say the invocation; the cross remains the center of the activities; safety to fans/track staff; gospel shared boldly; fans won’t idolize instead appreciate talent, skill & courage San Bernardino Stock Care Speedway  – safety to all racing & supporting the race on tracks; alcohol restrictions before/during/after races Motocross Glen Helen Raceway  – extra precautions for those on the bikes, enforcement of safety gear, dirt prepared properly; orderly conduct on/off the track; prohibition to drugs and alcohol before/during/after the race Christian Race Ministries  – Racing with Jesus  & Beyond Checkered Flags Personal Challenge : If you attend or watch any of these types of races, pick a team to pray for.  If you do not, consider choosing one of the raceways to cover in prayer. Feb. 5th - Most Watched Sports in US Podcast Podcast : Praying for Extreme fighting, Fans, Betting, Professional Athletes, Christian Athletes Prayer Points/Scriptures: Extreme fighting [MMA, UFC, Boxing] goal is to physically harm the other person until they are knocked unconscious or incapacitated. Pray for their salvation, whether God would endorse this type of fighting.  ( 1 Corinthians 10:31 ). So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.   What does the Bible say about extreme fighting / violent sports? | GotQuestions.org Fans – not idolize, not elevate over God, not obsessed with teams/games, harboring hatred against other fans for opposing teams. 1 John 2:15-17    Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever. Betting – fantasy sports, gambling, addiction, what’s the motive, would God endorse it   Should a Christian participate in sports betting? | GotQuestions.org   1 Tim. 6:9   But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction . Professional athletes – be a good model, avoid drugs or steroids, cussing, fighting with the opposing team, physically abusing women, sexual impurity. 1 Timothy 4:12  Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Christian athletes – not let it become an idol; keep identity in Christ not the sport; passion more on Christ than winning; good witnesses of their faith; good mentors to younger athletes, donate time & money to charities; ( 1 John 5:21 ); Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts Feb. 4th - Focus on Most Watched Sports in US Podcast Podcast : Praying for the Main Sports Watched in the US - Football, baseball, soccer, hockey, and auto racing are most watched Prayer Points/Scriptures: Owners – protect their staff/teams; not cut costs leading to dangers; not love money; healthy business deals, high standards. [ 1 Timothy 6:10 ]   For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows. Advertisers – cleaner ads especially at major events watched by so many; more moral standards [ Isaiah 5:20 ]   What sorrow for those who say that evil is good and good is evil, that dark is light and light is dark, that bitter is sweet and sweet is bitter . Players – safety, play ethically, high integrity, avoid enhancing drugs, build camaraderie, family time [ Ps. 25:21 ] May integrity and honesty protect me, for I put my hope in you. Spectators – healthy rivalry, not idolize, avoid arguments over best team, time balanced with family, friends & God. [ 2 Timothy 2:23-25   ESV] Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth Personal Challenge : Do you watch any of the most preferred sports in the US? If so, how much do you spend in watching, betting, or buying sports team paraphernalia? How much time do you spend viewing it? Ask the Lord to show you if it’s crowding out time with Him or those you love and/or spending more money than you have? Check out How should a Christian view sports / athletics? | GotQuestions.org – consider safety not just winning; build team spirit, encourage self-control in practice and play, build morale & character; same standards expected for all players [ Proverbs 25:28   ESV] Feb. 3rd - Focus on Arts, Entertainment & Sports Podcast : A Call to Pray for the Arts, Entertainment & Sports Industries Prayer Points/Scriptures: Used for celebrating and honoring loved ones skills/gifts or solely for selfish pleasure? 1 John 5:21 keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts. Is what you are watching healthy or tempting you to sin? Psalm 101: 3    I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. Would Jesus   watch this with me?   Colossians 3:17    - And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Is it causing me to be addicted? My time spent foolishly? Or am I using it to fellowship with other believers, share the Gospel with people or simply have some clean fun? Titus 2:12    - Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age. Personal Challenge : Identify how you participate in arts, entertainment and/or sports. Which ones are solely for pleasure and which ones can you minister to people? Allow the Holy Spirit to shine light on your involvement with them; what to keep, what to discard. What to moderate.

Transformed by the Power of God Declaring this year – believers in San Bernardino County will come alive by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Their lives will be so changed that those around them will ask them how it happened.  The Gospel will be preached with boldness from a fresh awakened state.   Jesus’ cross work is our bridge from what we were to what He wants us to be. What if instead of simply acknowledging our sins, we added a prayer to do the opposite?  That we would pray to demonstrate change in our behaviors, actions, attitudes and thoughts.  What if we didn’t dwell on how bad and messed up, we are, but instead dwell on the gracious partnering work of the Lord to completely transform us?  That, we would allow the Holy Spirit a metamorphosis in us.  From caterpillar to butterfly.  This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! 2 Cor. 5:17 NLT Revival occurs when people change in such a miraculous way that those around them see it. The revived are transformed by a work from the Lord.  Their change comes from seeing a Savior who is just and merciful.  The revived come alive through confession of sins AND submitting to the work of God in their lives. For the month of January, we're calling on the One who is more than able to change us. Our prayer focus will be on the transformation of believers. Praying they Wake Up – Be So Transformed – Affect Others. Linked Podcasts below | Resources Listed at end | Post a prayer in the Comment Section Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Jan. 1 - New Year's Day Jan. 2 - Clarion Call Intro Jan. 3 - Eph. 4:30-32 Jan. 6 - 1st Command-ment Jan. 7 - 2nd Command-ment Jan. 8 - 3rd Command-ment Jan. 9 - Pray for Fires in So Cal Jan. 10 - Pray for Fires in So Cal Jan. 13 - 4th Command-ment Jan. 14 - 5th Command-ment Jan. 15 - 6th Command-ment Jan. 16 - 7th Command-ment Jan. 17 - 8th Command-ment Jan. 20 - MLK Holiday Jan. 21 - 9th Command-ment Jan. 22 - 10th Command-ment Jan. 23 - Greatest Command-ment Jan. 24 - 2nd Greatest Command-ment Jan. 27 - Love Your Enemies Jan. 28 - Break Jan. 29 - Break Jan. 30 - Great Commission Jan. 31 - Be alert & always pray Resources : A List Of Sins From The Bible | Jack Wellman 7 Commandments Jesus Gave From the Gospels

INTRODUCTION : Families experience pressures of many kinds. In this season of back-to-back holidays, family wounds & conflicts can arise if they haven't been addressed. Many internal and external issues try to tear the family unit apart, leaving painful experiences. For November through the New Year, join us in praying for families to find ways to unify, to show mercy, to love and be loved, to build and not tear down and to heal and find joy again. Check out the podcasts, scriptures and resources & join us. BUT we have The Father in Heaven , in whom we can seek restoration, redemption & reconciliation. Tuesday, 12/31 - TEENAGERS [ [Questions? Answers! Trusted Source?] Podcast: Teenagers 12-19 [grounded in the Word, supportive families & in God’s love for them] Prayer points: find faith in God and his love; find answers in the Word; sexual purity; filter sources; find safe family members to talk to; healthy peers; able to stand their ground despite pressure to conform; find beauty through God’s lens; protected from taking drugs laced with fentanyl; feel valued, important and needed. Scriptures: James 1:21–26; Eph. 3;14-21; 1 Cor. 15:33 Resources: 10 CHALLENGES FACING CHRISTIAN YOUTH ( jeremiahinstitute.com ) ; Supporting Your Teenager: A Christian Counselor’s Advice, Part 2 | Bellevue Christian Counseling ; 7 Challenges Teens Face Today - CCCRD | Center for Christian Counseling & Relationship Development Monday, 12/30 - STRENGTHENING MARRIAGES [Bound by a triple-braided cord] Podcast: Strengthening Marriages [intentional work to love, accept & forgive] Prayer points: for couples to be quick to forgive and apologize, not keep an account of wrongs, ask for you to be the 3rd chord that keeps them together, they seek God above all else, learn to accept and not try to change each other, learn each other’s way of giving and receiving love, to find time to connect, be open with each other/not hiding anything, divine wisdom to handle the external pressures. Scriptures: 1 Peter 4:7-8; Col. 3:13-14; Eph. 4:32 Resources: 6 Reasons Christian Marriages Struggle - Esther Littlefield ; 13 QUESTIONS TO ASK FOR A MARRIAGE THAT LASTS The Love Language™ Quiz ( 5lovelanguages.com ) Friday, 12/27 - FAMILY & SPORTS [Playing, Watching, Paying, Idolizing] Podcast: Sports [Team, Spectators, Time, Costs; when is it an idol?] Prayer points: Pray about behavior when playing or watching, parents teach good sportsmanship, how to lose and win gracefully, monitoring time/costs involved, is it drawing families closer or farther apart; ensuring it doesn’t take God’s place in their hearts; keeping God their first priority. Scriptures: 1 Cor. 10:31; Col. 3:17; 1 John 5:21 Resources: Spring Sports and Sunday Church | Desiring God ; The Christian and Sport | Desiring God ; 3 Questions to Detect Sports Idolatry ( thegospelcoalition.org ) Thursday, 12/26 - SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE [Phubbing? Parameters? Purpose?] Podcast: Social Media Usage [Stop phubbing! Use parameters! Ask purpose!] Prayer points: not to be on phone when someone is talking to you [phubbing]; setting clear boundaries on when to listen, what to watch & how to use for good & how much time; identify why families look at social media; remember you’re Christ’s ambassador online; connect with family, take breaks from it; consider fasting Scriptures: Ps. 101:3; 1 Cor. 10:31; Matt. 5:16 Resources: Study Reveals Parents' Concerns About Social Media Use | Lurie Children's ( luriechildrens.org ) ; 15 Things Christians Should Stop Doing on Social Media - RELEVANT ( relevantmagazine.com ) ; How to reduce social media use – 12 simple proven steps ( unscreen.org )   Wednesday, 12/25 - MERRY CHRISTMAS [No podcast today] Tuesday, 12/24 - SINGLENESS [Remaining single; Seeking Mate; Following God] Podcast: Singles [by choice or in waiting mode] Prayer points: begin praying for their mates in advance, not just to have one but for their life, for God to bring the right one and not a decoy, a believer not unequally yoked, healthy ways to find a mate, peace and joy in the journey, acceptance for those seeking a celibate life, opportunities to do things without a partner, loneliness turn to ways to connect with others, not give in to fatalism but know God has good plans for them, faith to believe. Scriptures: Jer. 29:11; Eccl. 3:1-8; Ps. 84:11 Resources: 15 Bible Verses About Singleness | What God Says ( justinemfulama.com ) ; Christian Advice for Singles (The 4 Phases) | ApplyGodsWord.com ; Lesson 8: Practical Advice For Singles (1 Corinthians 7) | Bible.org Monday, 12/23 - SHARING JESUS WITH UNSAVED FAMILY [Timing, Openness, Lovingly] Podcast: Sharing faith with unsaved family [right motives, right methods and right material] Prayer points: for hardened hearts to be tenderized and open to hear; breakdown of arguments; overcome by our testimonies, understanding and good questions to ask, discerning the time and situation when sharing [are they tired, sick, or hungry]; God to give them eyes to see and ears to hear above all the other noise; we model a good Christian life, apologizing and forgiving as needed, clothed in humility, remembering but for the grace of God we could still be unsaved. Scriptures: James 5:16; Eph. 4:18; Acts 4:29-30 Resources: How Can I Pray for My Unsaved Loved Ones? ( christianity.com ) ; Sharing Your Faith 101 ( billygraham.org ) ; How Christians can reach out to unbelieving family members ( christiantoday.com ) Friday, 12/20 - SCHEDULES [His plans or ours? Quality vs Quantity? What should be on it?] Podcast: Schedules [Allotting time for God, family and self-care] Prayer points: seeking God for what to keep and what to eliminate and what to add; making appointments to spend with family undistracted; 1:1 and communally, ensuring there’s time to care for body, soul & spirit Scriptures: Ps. 37:5; Eph. 5:15-17; Matt. 6:33; Is. 58:11 Resources: 10 Bible Verses about Schedule, Schedules & Scheduling. – Daily Bible Verse Blog ( jollynotes.com ) ; Your Parenting Goals Seem Good, So Why the Struggle? ( connectedfamilies.org ) ; How to get your family organized and on a schedule—in three steps ( todaysparent.com ) Thursday, 12/19 - SABBATH [Families Discover Blessings in Rest] Podcast: Sabbath [resting, intermission, work break] Prayer points: yoke with Christ, learn from his gentle & humble walk; plan for the day, make it different than the rest; work less; social media refrain; quality time with friends/family, spend time with the Lord reading the Bible, listening to worship music, choosing entertainment that builds the Spirit; reevaluate your activities – what to keep what to stop. Scriptures: Ex. 20:8-11; Lev. 23:3; Matt. 11:28-30; Is. 58:13 Resources: 15 Activities Strictly Prohibited on Shabbat in Israel - Secret Israel ( secret-israel.com ) ; Modern Day Sabbath | How to Rest & Refresh in a Time-Crunched Culture ( debpreston.com ) Wednesday, 12/18 - RESENTMENT [dividing tasks, teambuilding or tug-of-war, sharing costs] Podcast: Resentment [dividing tasks & teambuilding & sharing costs] Prayer points: members deal with their resentment, find solutions to share chores, costs and responsibilities; confront not avoid or give up; create rules that build teamwork and camaraderie, encourage mutual engagement, invitational communication, clear communication of expectations for each member at events, gatherings and meals; ways to unite not divide; lighten loads. Scriptures: Eccl. 4:9-12; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Eph. 4:16 Resources: Developing Family Teamwork - Kelly Crawford ( crosswalk.com ) ; How To Build A Strong Christian Family – The Bottom Line, Ministries ( tblfaithnews.com ) ; 5 Ways to Build Teamwork in Your Family - First Things First Tuesday, 12/17 - RECONCILIATION & FORGIVENESS [Apologies; 77X; Not keeping records] Podcast: Reconciliation & Forgiveness [Initiating I’m sorry; Harboring no offense; Forgiving mercifully] Prayer points: regularly forgive offenders, recognize how much they’ve been forgiven by God, daily pray the Lord’s prayer, listen to how they speak about family members, admit it is sin to speak ill of anyone, keep forgiving until it is from their heart, not retelling the offense, able to be the first to own their part in the problem and apologize, recognizing one of the things God hates is someone who causes division Scriptures: Matt. 18:21-22; Prov. 17:9; Matt. 6:9-13 Resources: Forgiveness within Christian Families | Help Club for Moms ; Lesson 12: Reconciled Families (Malachi 4:4-6) | Bible.org ; The ABCs of Christian Forgiveness: An 8-Step Approach - Binmin Monday, 12/16 - PRODIGALS & UNSAVED LOVED ONES [ calling them home through intercession] Podcast: Prodigals & Unsaved loved ones [praying God’s word UNTIL . . .] Prayer points: persistence in prayer, removing any offense towards the one we pray for; asking for others to speak to them about the Lord, for them to see their condition from God’s perspective, to experience a pigsty moment like the prodigal and want to come home, for those who influence their lives be saved or removed; for God to remove the stony stubborn heart and replace with a tender, responsive heart, for dreams and visions of God’s love and judgment. Scriptures: Ezekiel 34:16; Jude 1:22-23; Luke 15:11-32; John 10:28-29; Ezek. 36:25-27 Resources: Pray Them Home: Three Prayers for Prodigal Children | Desiring God ; Prayer for the Prodigal Son or Daughter ( missionariesofprayer.org ) ; 7 Prayers for Your Prodigal Child ( ibelieve.com ) Friday, 12/13 - PARENTING [Exhausting, Engaging, Embracing] Podcast: 3 Parenting Issues [Exhaustion vs Yoking up with God & finding rest; Disconnect vs Playtime; Regretting moments missed vs Stopping to savor the moment] Prayer points: yoke up with the Lord to parent their kids, get energy and wisdom from the Lord; seek friends who are older parents, not do it alone; take breaks from kids to regroup; put away cell phones when kids need their attention; show the kids they are important and valued early and reinforce through the years; savor the moments when they are good and praise them openly; being honest and real; helping them see it’s not perfection that makes a good family; it’s love and forgiveness and a reliance on the Lord’s strength. Scriptures: Matt. 11:28-30 ; Is. 40:11 ; Eccl. 3:1 Resources: 8 Promises for Exhausted Parents - Christian Parenting ( crosswalk.com ) ; 7 Ways to Connect with Your Children ( childdevelopmentinfo.com ) ; 32 Ways to Savor Your Children While You Have Them ( ericalayne.co ) Thursday, 12/12 - LEAVING A GODLY LEGACY [Living to Pass On the Torch of Godliness] Podcast: Leaving a legacy [Living to Leave behind what matters to God] Prayer points: to leave a godly legacy to the next generation: disciple, encourage, equip, resource, empower, position for success, reaffirm, remind what to do, point to Jesus, reassure, release, rejoice with them, share the hope you have in Christ and in your future heaven home Scriptures: Ps. 112:1-3; Matt. 6:20-21; Prov. 13:22 Resources: Leaving a Legacy: 10 Things I Want To Be Remembered For ( whatchristianswanttoknow.com ) ; 4 Ways to Pass Down a Spiritual Legacy - Kathy Howard ; 12 Steps To Leaving A Godly Legacy To The Next Generation | Brian Dodd on Leadership Wednesday, 12/11 - K-6TH GRADE CHILDREN [seeking the Great Shepherd to protect these little sheep] Podcast: K-6 children [praying for their protection from harm; prevention from false teachings; resilience from pandemic aftermath and encouraged by the Holy Spirit] Prayer points: predators caught before harm comes to children; parents educate and monitor children’s social media use; parents heard and empowered at school district meetings; voice of parents greater than Dept. of Ed.; books with explicit/implicit sexual overtones be banned from K-6th grades; Covid aftermath cause them to more resilient; family uses it as dialogue to strengthen and inform, children feel valued and important at home. Scriptures: Jer. 29:11; Matthew 19:14 ; 1 Timothy 4:12 Resources: How to Pray: 11 Creative Ideas for Teaching Kids - Ministry Spark Tuesday, 12/10 - INSTILLING VALUES [It’s never too late to encourage God’s standards] Podcast: Instilling values [what standards do we live by and expect at home] Prayer points: increase prayer for your family, keep a journal of requests, list the praises, increase faith with God’s promises; regularly repent and teach that; show unconditional love, forgive daily, serve others and take family along; tithe & donate; have family nights, show your faith. Scriptures: Deut. 6:6-7; Prov. 22:6; 1 Tim. 5:8; Col. 3:20; 1 Tim. 3:5 Resources: Building your family on Christian values and principles - FamilyToday Monday, 12/9 - GRIEF [Memorials, Memories, Missing] Podcast: Grief [Memorials, Memories, Missing – for outsider; to speak or not to speak that is the question] Prayer points: during memorials cover the griever in prayer; emotions free not held back; find the source of comfort, the Holy Spirit, the comforter; words inappropriately spoken overlooked, during times of remembering pray people show their love by their actions fewer words spoken; for the later days when they miss the loved one pray for the griever to want to live, not give up, care for themselves and not seek destructive things to numb the pain; pray they recognize it’s a process and eventually accept it and work through it until they see their future purpose. Scriptures: Ps. 23:4A; 2 Cor. 1:3-4; Is. 40:13 Resources: How to Heal from Grief - GriefShare ; Helping Those Who Grieve - Association of Certified Biblical Counselors ( biblicalcounseling.com ) Friday, 12/6 - GRANDPARENTS [Legacy, PUSH, Modeling] Podcast: Grandparents [leaving an enduring influence; praying until something happens; modeling Christ & God’s love] Prayer points: they would first focus on God and their love of Him would spill over to those around them, they would recognize what they do & say affects many; they would apologize, forgive and not hold offense from any family member; model persistent prayer & prayers of faith; their ending days would demonstrate the power of the Gospel; they would teach and not be afraid to speak the truth to their family in love; be grounded in God’s love & rock solid in their faith Scriptures: Ps. 145:4 ; Deut. 6:5-7 ; Ps. 78:1-8 Resources: How to be an Intentional Christian Grandparent - Grams and Pops ; 4 Tips for Helping Grandchildren of Divorced Parents - Christian Grandparenting Network ; 7 Essentials For Grandparenting Your Grandkids - Focus on the Family Thursday, 12/5 - GENDER IDENTITY [Finding freedom in God’s Initial Design] Podcast: Gender identity [who am I or better who did God design me to be] Prayer points: For family members who chose to be LGBTQ+; for family members dealing with those who chose it; first that we always define others as children of God; for the family member to draw closer to Christ; for wise counsel, not derision or coddling; that homosexual friends and family respect their Christian loved ones; for them to know they were designed by God; for healthy conversations, protection from suicidal thoughts, truth would set them free; for loving people to speak to them. Scriptures: Gen. 1:27; Rom. 1:26-27; John 8:7-11; Deut. 22: Resources: How to Pray for Homosexual Friends and Family Members ( crosswalk.com ) ; HOME ( fearlessidentity.co ) ; Christian parents on how to respond to LGBT children: Tell them ‘I love you' even more | Living News ( christianpost.com ) ; Confessions of a Christian Who Struggled with Gender Identity - Christ and Culture ( sebts.edu ) ; What does the Bible say about transsexualism / transgenderism? Is gender identity disorder / gender dysphoria the result of sin? | GotQuestions.org ; A Prayer for Our LGBT Neighbors | Family Policy Alliance Wednesday, 12/4 - HANDLING FINANCES [economy, giving, saving, it's His anyways] Podcast: Money Problems [Whose money is it anyways? – Love God or Love $ - It is never too early to learn] Prayer points: give to God first; generously, cheerful, save, learn to be content with what they have, not love money, not greedy, test God, tithe, spend appropriately, share with others, teach children how to spend/save and give to God, understand why we need to love God over money. Scriptures: Prov. 3:9; Prov. 6:6-8; Heb. 13:5 Resources: 10 key Scriptures to follow when managing your money - Christ Win ; Money Management for the Christian Family - FamilyLife® ; Teach Children How to Handle Money God's Way - Christian Finances ( crosswalk.com ) Tuesday, 12/3 - FAMILIES AS LIGHTHOUSES [Spark a fire; Spread His love; Shine in the darkness] Podcast: Families become lighthouses who want to pass on God’s love, sparking a fire of revival and bold to shine in the darkness. Prayer points: pray for your neighbors as a family; take prayer walks; look for ways to be a light to those around you; do simple acts of kindness; when encountering a neighbor offer to pray for them or ask if they have something they need in prayer; invite them over for a meal or coffee or tea; pray for divine encounters, ask questions, seek to get to know them & build relationship. Scriptures: Matt. 5:14-16; John 8:12; Acts 13:47; Eph. 5:8 Resources: Your Home: A Lighthouse - Via Families ( weavefamily.org ) ; A House of Prayer for All Neighbors — GOSPEL FAMILY MINISTRIES ; It Only Takes A Spark Song Lyrics | Divine Hymns | Gospel Song Lyrics Monday, 12/2 - EXTENDED FAMILY [our Village; our Culture; our History] Podcast: Loving & Praying for our Extended Family [Do we really need them? How to love the ones that drive us nuts? What’s keeping us apart?] Prayer points: recognizing we need them to help us learn and grow; learn from their knowledge of our history & culture; loving/forgiving those who are like porcupines; glean from their strengths & skills & wisdom; recognizing though blood related we have new DNA; praying for troubled ones; seeking God’s view of the hurting ones; quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to get angry, holiday & celebrations are times of joy not drama  Scriptures: Eccl. 4:9; 1 Tim. 2:1; 1 Cor. 1:10 Resources: Prayer Of The Day - A Prayer For Extended Family - MARRIAGE AFTER GOD ; The Extended Family in America | Christian Standard ; 30 Intercessory Prayers For Family Breakthrough - Bibleandprayers.com ; 17 Persistent Prayer Points For Family Breakthrough - Faith Victorious Friday, 11/29 - ENTERTAINMENT [Filtered with Jesus] Podcast: Entertainment [Watching & Listening with Jesus by our Side] Prayer points: Reminder Jesus is with you all the time when we take in entertainment, be aware of little ones around, whether music, movies, video games or other types would not be an idol in our lives, for Holy Spirit to help you understand the Bible’s entertainment principles, for wisdom as you establish family media standards, to get rid of temptations [i.e. stop a streaming service, throw away what uses foul language, sensual, or God’s name in vain; fast it for 30 days, for strength to resist the temptation to indulge in entertainment that doesn’t glorify God; that the changes made will last. Scriptures: Ps. 119:37; Ex. 20:3; Josh. 1:8 Resources: Making Wise Entertainment Choices - Focus on the Family ; Hymn: Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see ( hymnal.net ) Thursday, 11/28 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING Wednesday, 11/27 - EMPTY NESTERS & RETIRED [Now what?] Podcast: Empty nesters [Finding new normal, keeping active & persisting in prayer] Prayer points: hand over children to the Lord and trust He will care for them; accept the paradox of children given to us not ours, able to find new things to do while kids are gone, making home a safe place to visit; for retired to find ways to fill time that are fulfilling and not wasted; both find ways to mentor others, leaving a legacy from their experiences, learned skills and wisdom. Scriptures: Phil. 1:6; 2 Cor.10:10; Prov. 22:6 Resources: Tips For Empty Nesters | How to Prepare for the Empty Nest ( emptynestblessed.com ) ; 7 Powerful Encouragements for the Empty Nester ( crosswalk.com ) ; Your Empty Nest Is God’s Opportunity | Christianity Today ; Are you facing the empty nest? 10 Scriptures you need + hope! - Christi Gee Tuesday, 11/26 - DISTANCE [How to love from afar?] Podcast: Geographically distant [loving them close when they are far] Prayer points: set specific times to communicate on a regular basis; a regular time to pray for the distant loved one each week, a way to connect and make them feel valued and important, how to work out the holidays, financially, schedules, loneliness, not feel detached though geographically distant, ways to maintain the relationship, what best builds and guards the rapport, support for both sides, how much is too much, how much is too little communication. Scriptures: Proverbs 17:6; Luke 6:31; Matt. 19:19 Resources: MF2979 Loving Long Distance: Families Separated by Distance, Fact Sheet ( ksu.edu ) ; Five Ways to Intentionally Grandparent from a Distance: Part One - Christian Grandparenting Network ; 20 Long Distance Activities for Dads at a Distance ( fambooks.com ) Monday, 11/25 - DEPENDENCE ISSUES [Who are we depending on?] Podcast: Dependence Issues [Co-dependent, Interdependent, Independent or God dependent] Prayer points: Identifying who we are depending on – man or God; are we the cause of their dependence; learning each member matters; each family can do something; co-dependent means we’re not relying on God; interdependence means we need each other; independence means I can do it by myself, me is at the center of relationships, God dependence means I recognize the Potter, I’m the clay and under His leadership and need to depend on Him. Scriptures: Phil. 4:13, Matt. 10:37; 1 John 4:7-8 Resources: What does the Bible say about interdependence? | GotQuestions.org Friday, 11/22 - DEALING WITH FAMILY MENTAL ILLNESS [without going nuts] Podcast: Dealing with family mental illness [for the one experiencing and the one caregiving and the one observing – all need divine intervention and wisdom] Prayer points: for the one experiencing - wholeness, healing, deliverance, able to forgive those who harmed, feel valued and important & see purpose in the body of Christ; freedom from fear/anxiety, mental disorders, able to make healthy choices; for the one caregiving - discernment, wisdom, patience, compassion; for the one observing – no judgment, empathy, intercession, words of encouragement, help person see they matter. Scriptures: Ps. 139:4; Ps. 34:17-18; Ps. 23:3; Is. 53:5 Resources: What does the Bible say about dealing with mental illness? | GotQuestions.org Thursday, 11/21 - COMMUNICATION [Anybody listening?] Podcast: [Are you really listening? What are you saying? Put the phone away!] Prayer points: making a choice to listen out of love; getting rid of distractions, choosing right place right time, seeking to understand first, paying attention to verbal & nonverbals, putting phone away, allow for faults, humility, gentleness, patience, speaking the truth in love, build each other up with wholesome language, kindness, forgiveness, slow to give advice Scriptures: James 1:19 , Proverbs 1:5 ; Deut. 12:28 ; Eph. 4: 1-3; 15-16; 23-24; 26-27; 29; 31-32 Resources: Pay attention, listen, seek to understand - Communicate better ; Communication Skills for You and Your Family | Cooperative Extension | University of Delaware ( udel.edu ) Wednesday, 11/20 - COLLEGE & ADULT CHILDREN [letting them fly, letting them go, letting them learn] Family topic podcast: College & Adult Children [Co-dependent on Holy Spirit ; Dependent on God; Interdependent on Body of Christ] Prayer points: truth would win out over lies taught in some college classes; resolve to stay true to what they learned and believed about God while attending college, parents to release kids to God’s ultimate care; for godly friends to surround them when they leave; for support from other parents in prayer and ways to love kids from a distance; hedge of protection against the worldly temptations, a desire & ability to stay the course to follow Jesus, no matter what, to be a light in the darkness. Scriptures: Rom. 15:13; Phil. 1:6; Eph. 4:16 Resources: Lead Your Adult Children Back to Christ - Christian Parenting ( crosswalk.com ) ; 10 Things to Remember When Your Adult Child Leaves the Church ( ibelieve.com ) ; Parenting Adult Children: Six Steps to Sanity - Christian Parenting ( crosswalk.com ) Tuesday, 11/19 - CHILDREN & ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES [Social, Physical & Mental] Family topic podcast: Families with Children or Adults with social, physical or mental disabilities [hope, healing or deliverance] Prayer points: find living hope, ongoing hope in the Lord for grace & strength; healing to the disabled, medical progress and success, not give up when tired; see the heightened traits of those challenged, appreciate and savor the good moments, support from extended family, cast their cares on the Lord and not take them back Scriptures: 3 John 1:2; 1 Pet. 1:3; 2 Thess. 3:13 Resources: 15 Scriptures To Pray For Your Child with Special Needs ( embracing.life ) Monday, 11/18 - CHILDLESS BY CHOICE OR NOT [barren, bitter or better] Family topic podcast: Childless by choice or not [No advice please, Never assume who is infertile; No children but still fulfilled in God] Prayer points: direction and open doors for those wanting children; safe people to discuss their pain, acceptance & no judgment by others for those that don’t want kids; renewed hope and strength as the childless couple looks for options; ways to deal with naysayers & when others conceive around them, hope where there’s despair, encouragement despite barrenness; the miracle of life & children, ways for them to love kids while waiting. Scriptures: Is. 54:1; Luke 23:29; 1 Cor. 7:8; Prov. 30:15-16 Resources: How You Can Care for the Childless ( thegospelcoalition.org ) ; When a Christian is Childless — World Childless Week ; Don't Judge Me Because I'm Childless | Today's Christian Woman ( todayschristianwoman.com ) Friday, 11/15 - CAREGIVERS & MEMBER NEEDING CARE [Whose Member is it anyways?] Family topic podcast: Family caregivers & Member needing care [loving God & self to receive and give love to others] Prayer points : spending quality time with God; taking Sabbath time to restore; renewed with love and joy to care for family member; finding joy in the care & member, combatting fatigue with enough sleep & down time, paying attention to red flags in the member and in self, able to receive care without feeling like a burden; more than a duty – it’s a service to God, clear communication of needs, getting help, sharing the load. Scriptures : 1 John 3:17; Phil. 2:4; Gal. 6:10 Resources : Caregiving: Christian Helping and Coping - Christian Life Resources ; Caregiver Action Network ; A Biblical Perspective on Caregiving | Joni and Friends ; PRAYER FOCUS: Families ( sbcuniteandawake.com ) Thursday, 11/14 - BLENDED FAMILIES [Stepping into a Frying Pan] Family topic podcast: Blended Families [How to heal? How to help? How to unite?] Prayer points: Clarify expectations, work together, form new bonds, Mourn the losses; cry together, share what you miss, and then identify what you gained. Understanding, patience, wisdom, comfort; Build a team with new and old ones; don’t forget to work on the marriage intentionally, help the children heal not their fault nor blame; find conflict solutions, agree on discipline, build a strong relationship with God & other believers to support and help, practice forgiveness, recognize it takes time Scriptures: Galatians 3:28; Psalm 127:1; Eph. 2:14 Resources: Christian Advice for Blended Families: 7 Helpful Tips ( whatchristianswanttoknow.com ) ; Blended Families - Problems, Challenges, Bible Verses | Preach It, Teach ItAsk Roger Detail | Preach It, Teach It ( preachitteachit.org ) ; Christian Family Counseling: Blended Families and Parenting | Mill Creek Christian Counseling Wednesday, 11/13 - Family Prayer Focus - Babies & Toddlers Family topic podcast: Babies & toddlers [never too early to teach about God, simple less is best, remember parents need spiritual formation too] Prayer points: parents find ways to get short breaks; others help them raise these little ones, protection, early they will know the Lord as savior, discipline appropriately to guide, divine wisdom through temper tantrums, parents & godly people speak good words over them, parents get sufficient input that is spiritual, physical and mental; they would be dedicated to the Lord early; taught to love the Word of God and worship Scriptures: Prov. 22:6; Is. 40:11; Mk. 9:37 Resources: Powerful Prayers for a Baby - Holy Land Prayer ; 35 Scriptures to Pray Over your Children (with Free Prayer Calendar) - ( garmentsofsplendor.com ) Tuesday, 11/12 - ARGUMENTS & CONFLICTS [learn to fight fair] Family topic podcast : Arguments & Conflicts - Biblical approach [it's not about winning] Prayer points : Identify root cause; examine motives; lean on grace; put on humility; create an environment of thanksgiving, pray before and after the conflict or argument, seek resolution not restitution, the end game is not your way or my way - it's God's way. Scriptures : James 4:1-6; Eph. 4:30-32 Resources : Handling Conflict Biblically and Constructively: Encouraging articles from Family Fire — Family Fire ; Conflict Management: A Biblical Approach — Family Fire Monday, 11/11 - ADOPTION & FOSTER KIDS [Parents & Children] Family topic podcast: Adopted & Fostered [Kids who need a forever family; Couple who needs a forever kid; Celebrate our adoption to God’s family] Prayer points:  Children waiting for adoption, hope, process smooth, adapting goes well; foster children in the system, foster children after the system ends, foster parents, for the right reasons, ethically, lovingly, treat as their own; adoptive parents, patience, ability to love through assimilation, both foster & adoptive parents supported by extended family, gratitude for having a Father who will NEVER leave us NOR forsake us and who provided us a forever family. Scriptures: James 1:27; Gal. 4:4-5; Ps. 10:14 Resources: 5 ways you can pray for adoptive families - ERLC ; Adoption Prayer - Prayer Ideas ; Prayer for Orphans ( knowing-jesus.com ) ; Foster Care as the Way of Christ | Desiring God