I talked last week about how important it was for our eyes to be open so that we can see what the Lord is doing in our nation and in our world.  God is doing so much if only we have eyes to see it.  I began this week to see however how important that it was to keep our eyes fixed on our God and not let them wander on to other things around us.  Our attention can often be taken up with other things.  Jesus said in Matthew 6:22 that the eyes are the lamp to our bodies, so let’s make sure we focus on the right things.  I was reading in Joshua 6 how after such a brilliant victory at Jericho, someone allowed their eyes to wander and found themselves coveting the wrong things.  They had been told that all the gold and silver from the battle of Jericho was not to go to any of the Israelites but was to go into the Lord’s house.  However, one man allowed his eyes to rest on a beautiful robe, some silver and a wedge of gold and wanted them so badly that he disobeyed what God had told him to do and it led him to die and also caused the whole nation harm and defeat.  In fact, because he gave in to sin, other people suffered the consequences of that sin and 36 of them died in the battle at Ai.  Sometimes we fail to see how our actions can affect not only ourselves and our family but also others.  It is so important that we keep our gaze on the Lord and that we realise that in the middle of the battle that we cannot afford to put our attention on to other things that can dazzle us and cause us to fall.

If your eyes have been on the wrong thing, then as Jesus says in Matthew 6 your whole body will be filled with darkness.  As you know in the darkness we grope around not knowing where we are going and often get hurt in the process.  Oh, how we need to see our nation filled with God’s light.  The best way of doing that is to keep our eyes on God and show people what it is like to live in the light of God’s abundant grace and life.  One by one, people will see and trust. 

One lady came to my Spiritual Health Weekend on a bursary ticket, that weekend she gave her life to the Lord Jesus.  With her eyes fixed on Jesus, she began to pray for her family and God began to move.  The following year she came back to my weekend and brought her Mum as well – she too became a Christian.  In the third year, she brought her niece and she too gave her life to the Lord.  Her family was beginning to have eyes that were filled with the light of Heaven.  Her niece wrote to us to tell us that she went back home and began to teach her kids about Jesus and her whole family began to be transformed.  In 2022 the original lady who attended the weekend is bringing more of her family and fully expects them too to come to know the Lord.  Through one person’s eyes being opened, other people were transferred from the kingdom of darkness to the Kingdom of Light.  Let’s keep our eyes open, but let’s fix them on Jesus.  Let’s not allow the distractions of this world to harm us and others around us, instead let’s keep our focus on the Lord and allow him to make a huge difference in our family, our friends, our nation and our world. Let’s pray! 

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 7^th May 2021  

• What a privilege to be able to pray. Prayer means that we can talk to the God of the universe – what a privilege to pray to a God who not only loves us but also has a heart to see our world restored.  We can pray with confidence that he is listening and that he will act.  We can see that the statistics continue to come down.  Woohoo!  Despite the release of lockdown, they still continue to decrease.  But like last week, we need to continue to pray for other nations and in particular India.  We can see on the TV how awful it is when this pandemic gets a hold.  Let’s pray for India in particular right now.  Pray that this virus will begin to be controlled.  Pray against the spirit of death and also pray against the fear that this virus brings.  Pray that many will turn to God in India as well as many in our own nation.   Praise God too that the vaccination process is going well and that many in the UK have now had both jabs.  Pray that every adult who wants the vaccination will be offered it soon whether in this country or elsewhere.  Praise God for the protection it brings.

• Let’s continue to pray for National and Global leaders. We pray for men and women who are filled with the light of Heaven and who have wisdom dripping from their mouths.  Pray for our Prime Minister, Boris Johnson and for his government.  Pray for every MP – let’s pray for unity between the parties.  Pray for a united effort against the Covid-19 virus.  Pray that they will lead us safely through this virus.  Pray that they will seek God and hear his advice and wisdom before making decisions.  We continue to pray for our Queen and for the whole Royal Family.  Pray that she will continue to have a long reign.  Ask for God’s protection to be around her especially now that her dear husband has died.  Pray for the whole Royal Family – that they would find the faith that our Queen has found.  Pray against the media reporting stories that are not necessarily true.  The media can so easily cause pain and hurt – let’s pray for accurate reporting from the media and let’s have discernment to know what is truth and what is lies.

• We praise God that the hospitals in our nation are not overrun with cases of Coronavirus. Pray that this continues to happen as lockdown continues to open up.  We pray for each NHS worker and pray strength and stamina into each one.  We remember the Health care people in hospitals in India who are stretched beyond anything we have ever seen.  Our hearts go out to them as they see people dying on the streets because of lack of room in the hospitals and lack of ventilators.  We praise God for every health care worker all over the world.  May they be protected from the traumas they so often see.  Pray for good mental health for them all.  We continue to praise God for the carers who work in care homes and also for those who are employed to help people in their own homes.  They are essential workers and deserve our prayers and our respect.  Do pray that kindness is shown to all their patients. 

• Praying for good mental health has to remain on our prayer lists. So many in our nation are troubled in their mental health.  Doctors are being swamped with people needing help.  Anti-depressants can help, but really we need to pray that people find deep comfort and healing from our great God.  Let’s cry out to God to heal our nation one by one.  Ask him to visit people in their dreams, and for God to show himself to many in the night. Pray for good, loyal and faithful friends for those suffering from poor mental health.  Be that kind of friend to others around you.  Sometimes just a kind word or a listening ear can help.  Do look out for people in your family or in your friends’ circle who need your encouragement and kindness at this time. Look for practical things you can do to express God’s love to others.  I have suggested a practical thing you can do for females – see PS below.

• Let’s pray for those who live under the poverty line, for those whose bed is in the streets and for those who turn to things like prostitution to survive. There are so many struggling for money.  Our government have done a lot to help during this pandemic, but the need is still there.  Praise God that some churches are helping, but there are many people who are still struggling.  Pray for permanent solutions for them.  Pray for the violence that often appears when money is an issue.  Pray against violence on our streets and also in our homes.  Pray for the vulnerable.  Pray for help whether from the government, from things we can do and also of course from our great God.  He sees every broken and hurt person and sends help to restore them.  Let’s be like the good Samaritan who not only saw the broken, but helped him and even paid out of his own money for his care.  Pray for a kind and compassionate heart and for wisdom to know how to reach others who are in pain.  

• During May the hospitality sector should open up so that hotels, restaurants and pubs can have people inside for a meal or a drink. Let’s continue to pray for those businesses who have struggled through the last year and praise God that there is another release from lockdown for some of those businesses. Pray for our economy as a whole – pray that many will find their business to be growing and blooming in the months and years ahead.  Let’s continue to pray for those who work in the entertainment business – like theatres, artists, dancers and musicians.  They have all been hard hit in this last year.  Many are in jobs that they don’t like to make ends meet.  Pray that as the lockdown continues to proceed that many will find themselves back doing the job they love. 

• Let’s continue to ask God to heal our nation. Let’s continue to ask for revival and for salvation to be seen.  Let’s pray for our nation to acknowledge God.  Pray for the churches to have wisdom in all they do.  Pray they will find more and more people being reached through their services but also through their social media events and their one-on-one contacts with others.  Praise God that many churches are running food banks, looking after the homeless and reaching out to the unloved in our nation.  Pray for your own church, pray for other churches too.  Pray for unity and for an eagerness to work together for the Kingdom. 

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

How do we keep our eyes on the Lord?  We submit our lives to him, obeying him in every circumstance, we keep reading his word and do nothing to destroy our relationship with him.  We basically lay our lives down, pick up our cross and follow him.  What many people don’t realise is that when you do that and fill our eyes with him, we live in abundant light where joy, peace and happiness reside.  It doesn’t mean we don’t have troubles, but in our troubles, he is there and when we trust him – he will help us through each battle and bring good out of every terrible situation we face.  So, let’s keep our eyes on our amazing God, so that our whole body is filled with his glorious and wonderful light.  May you shine so brightly with Jesus in this world that is filled with pain, sorrow and fear.  Sending you much love and huge encouragement – your friend – NANCY 

Ps  If you have a friend who is a female  and is struggling with their mental health, then perhaps encourage them to come to my Spiritual Health Weekend in February 2022 (http://nancygoudie.com/spiritual-health-weekends/ ) as this will put them in a place where they can experience the love and healing touch of the Saviour.   

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time:  do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day. I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our

Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’ Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg

4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God. Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA. You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

Last week I asked you how good your hearing was and said how important it is to be able to hear from God.  This week I want to ask another question – how good is your eyesight?  I’m not asking if you see physically – I am asking if you see spiritually?  Pilate had Jesus, the son of God, standing in front of him and yet he didn’t see him as he really was.  He saw a man condemned by the spiritual leaders of the day yet even when he asked Jesus, “Are you the King of the Jews?” and Jesus clearly said that he was but that his kingdom was not of this world, he could not believe that this man truly was who he said he was.  Pilate said to Jesus, “Don’t you realise I have power either to set you free or to crucify you?”  Jesus then revealed who he was again by saying, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above!”  Yet again, Pilate did not realise that the one standing in front of him was the son of God.  His spiritual eyes were not open!  Pilate also asked the question, “What is truth?” yet what he could not see was that the truth was standing in front of him.  Jesus was and is the truth.  Pilate was spiritually blind.

When Jesus rose from the dead, two of his disciples walked and talked with him on the road to Emmaus but they didn’t recognise him.  It was only when their eyes were opened (Luke 24:31) that they realised that Jesus was more than a prophet and that he had risen from the dead. 

I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be spiritually blind.  I want my eyes to be open to see what is really going on in our world.  I don’t want to react with fear or anxiety to what is happening in our world, instead I want to see what God is doing.  In 2 Kings 6:17 Elisha asked the Lord to open his servant’s eyes so that he may be able to see spiritually.  When the Lord did it, Elisha’s servant’s whole perspective of the situation around him changed.  He was filled with peace and joy and had a confident assurance of victory.  Let’s pray for our eyes to be opened to see how many of Heaven’s armies are with us as we fight our battles to see this pandemic gone and our nation and our world come to know the Lord.  Let’s cry out, “Oh Lord open my eyes so that I may see and know the truth!”  

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 30^th April 2021          

•  What a joy it is to continue to see the statistics come down. The death rate in particular has fallen so much – it is so good to see this.  However, it is not the same all over the world.  India, in particular, has a very different scenario.  People are suffering and dying from this virus – many of them are without the normal help we can expect here in our country.  Let’s pray for the incredible nation of India – they need God’s help so much.  So many people are struggling for their lives right now.  Let’s pray for God’s solutions for them.  Pray that God will save many lives.  Continue to pray for mainland Europe too.  Many nations are struggling with this virus. 

•  Praise God too that the vaccination process is going well in this nation and that many have now had both jabs.  Pray that every adult who wants the vaccination will be offered it soon whether in this country or elsewhere.  Praise God for the protection it brings.

• We continue to pray for our Prime Minster and for our government. Pray for every MP – for good, honest men/women with integrity.  Pray for godly men and women to be called to be a part of politics.   Pray that the parties will stir each other to move in unity and in the best interests of our nation at this time.  We continue to pray for our Queen and for the whole Royal Family.  Our Queen knows the Lord – and so easily speaks of her Christian faith.  Let’s pray for each of the Royal Family to find their faith in God increasing over this time.  Pray for the Queen’s health that she would continue to reign for a number of years yet, and also pray for Prince Charles who will succeed her.  Pray for wisdom from Heaven above to guide our nation. 

• We continue to praise God for our NHS – do pray for each worker – that they will have the health and strength to do the job that they have been called to do. Pray that they will recover from the trauma they have been going through.  Pray for good mental health for them all.  Praise God that the hospital admissions continue to go down, but do pray for any who are still in ICU that they would soon be able to go home.  We continue to praise God for the carers who work in care homes and also for those who are employed to help people in their own homes.  Pray for kindness to be shown to all their patients. 

• Poor mental health continues to be a problem in our nation. Do pray for many people, particularly young people, afflicted with this – I heard about a young girl recently who is suffering so badly with poor mental health.  Cry out to God to heal our nation and for God to show himself to the most vulnerable.  Pray for health and wholeness for them and that they will find in Jesus a reason to live.  Do look out for people in your family or in your friends’ circle who need your encouragement and kindness at this time. Let’s be sensitive to other people’s needs even though those needs may not be easily seen.    

• Again, we notice in the news about people being on the receiving end of violence in the home and in our streets. Do pray that everyone who has been subjected to this finds the courage to get help.  Pray that these scenarios will be exposed so that help can be given.  Let’s continue to pray against the deep-seated anger in people’s hearts at this time.  Pray for protection from this deep anger but also pray that those who have this spirit of anger will find God and be delivered from it.  Pray for peace and for joy in our society.  Let’s ask God to help us to speak wise and kind words to others around us.  Let’s show generosity to our neighbours (not just those who live next door to us, but those we come across in life).  We know that God is the answer – so let’s show that answer in its many forms to all around us. 

• Let’s continue to pray for our economy. Pray that as lockdown continues to be lifted that many businesses will enjoy a time of prosperity.  Pray for those who cannot open as yet like those who work in hospitality, hotels, conferences, theatres etc.  Pray for the wisdom and strength to go on.  Pray for hope for everyone, especially those who have lost jobs during this pandemic.  Many jobs are beginning to open up, so do pray that many will find their ideal job.

• The cry from our hearts remains – Lord, Heal our Nation. We so need God to move in our nation and in our world.  Let’s finish today by praying the words from the song my husband co-wrote in 1985 – Heal Our Nation.  The words are just as applicable now as they were then.  If ever we need revival – it is now – so let’s cry from our hearts for God to bring his tidal wave of his Spirit to our land and to our world. 

Lord, we long for You to move in power
There’s a hunger deep within our hearts
To see healing in our nation
Send Your Spirit to revive us

Heal our nation
Heal our nation
Heal our nation
Pour out Your Spirit on this land

© 1986 Thankyou Music

T Morgan; R Goudie; D Bankhead; I Townend.

 Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk    

When we see things from God’s perspective our faith begins to arise and hope is kindled in our hearts.  Let’s keep asking the Lord to open our eyes to his goodness and his kindness.  He shows us every day how much he loves us and yet sometimes we fail to notice his many kindnesses to us all.  We fail to see and recognise how much he loves us and the many blessings he pours out on us.  Let’s cry out to God to open our spiritual eyes to behold his goodness and his faithfulness.  Indeed, we have an amazing God.  Let’s praise Him today and always.  Sending you much love and encouragement – your friend – NANCY

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time:  do read below:

Setting the scene 

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day. I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our

Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’  Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg

4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God. Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA. You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

How good is your hearing?  Do you have trouble hearing physically or perhaps your hearing is really good?  But today I am not asking about your physical hearing, I am asking about your ability to hear spiritually.  How good are you at hearing the voice of God?  Did you know that Jesus was asked in Mark 12:28 what was the most important commandment and he answered saying this: “The most important one is this: ‘Hear O Israel, the Lord your God is one.  Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.  The second is this: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.  There is no commandment greater than these.’”  I am sure you know these two commandments that the Lord highlighted, but did you notice that at the beginning of the first commandment is the word ‘Hear’.  It is a commandment to hear.  Are we fulfilling the commandment to hear?  Are we a people who hear the voice of God?  Are our ears open and listening?  Do we take time each day to position our ears to hear?  There are many ways to hear the voice of God – God spoke in an audible voice in scripture, but he also speaks through a still small voice.  He speaks through others (perhaps a friend or a pastor), he speaks through a vision or a dream, but one of the ways he speaks the most is through his written word.  Are you opening your ears to listen?  Are we opening our Bibles and reading his word daily to allow ourselves to listen?  If we don’t hear his voice, then we will miss out on what he is saying and then sometimes we say wrong words, or make wrong decisions.  Let’s decide to open our ears and our Bibles and hear what the Lord is saying to us today!  For many years, I have used a Bible Reading Planner to read the whole Bible every year – if you have never tried a Bible Reading Planner then can I suggest you try it – reading the Bible and hearing God’s words changed my life.  (Visit http://nancygoudie.com/store-2/ to see the Bible Planner I use).  It’s only when we hear his voice that we can then move on to the next step and obey.  Today as we pray, lets pray from a place of knowing his voice and his wisdom. 

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 23^rd April 2021         

• Let’s say a hallelujah as the statistics continue to come down. How wonderful!  Let’s continue to pray until we have no deaths and only a few cases throughout the country.  Praise God too for the vaccinations and that they continue to keep us safe at this time.  Pray against the Indian variant which seems to be causing some issues here.  Pray that we will quickly get this under control and that the cases would not increase hugely.  Pray that the vaccines will help with this variant too.  Do continue to pray that the jabs will not produce dangerous side effects to any individual whether in this country or abroad.  Let’s continue to pray for mainland Europe, India and Brazil who are all struggling with Covid-19.  Continue to pray that they are able to get supplies of the vaccine out to their people and that soon they will be able to get Covid-19 under control in each individual country.

• I am sure like me you watched the funeral of the Prince of Edinburgh. What an amazing and emotional service.  My heart went out to our queen and her beloved family.  They all looked forlorn in their grief – especially the Queen.  What an amazing woman she is.  My heart was full for her.  Do continue to pray for her as I know how difficult the days are after the funeral.  Praise God she has a family who are all ready and willing to support her.  She celebrated her birthday on Wednesday of this week – let’s pray that this event would have brought a smile to her face.  The funeral was full of God’s presence and it was wonderful to see a woman who knows although she is Queen of our nation and of the commonwealth, she also is a woman under authority and as such bows her head in submission to a greater authority.  We have a wonderful godly woman on the throne and because of that, let’s pray she continues to have a long and fruitful life.  Pray for good health and strength for her especially as she grieves.  Let’s continue to pray for our Prime Minister too.  Pray for all MP’s and for unity and support to be shown through trying to walk forward out of this pandemic.  Above all pray for wisdom to guide our nation. 

• Do continue to pray for our wonderful NHS and for all who work there from cleaners to receptionists to surgeons. Pray for health and strength for them all and pray that compassion and kindness remain a top priority at all times.  Praise God that the hospital admissions continue to go down.  Pray for any who are still in ICU that they would soon be out of there and would be able to go home.  Also pray for those who work in Care Homes or work as a carer for those who need help at home.  Continue to praise God for kind and good carers who through their wonderful generosity and kindness bring healing to many. 

• Praise God for the good weather we have been having as lockdown eases. Sunshine makes the world seem a better place and this in turn can help those who are struggling with poor mental health.  Do continue to pray for the many who are struggling to get out of bed at this time.   Pray that their mental health will drastically improve.  Pray that they find help from the doctors, but also that the God of all life will still their troubled souls.  Pray that they will find that Jesus provides healing and wholeness.  Do continue to watch out for people who are struggling and come alongside them to provide a kind word and a loving heart. 

• One thing I have noticed in our world at present whether because of Covid-19 or otherwise is that there is a lot of anger and negativity around. That anger if not dealt with often shows itself in violence towards others – whether on the streets or in private in the home.  So many people have been affected in both of these scenarios.  Do pray for the riots and demonstrations where anger and violence have been seen, but also pray for the anger and violence in the home where it is not seen.  Pray for protection from this deep anger but also pray that those who have this spirit of anger will find God and be delivered from it.  Pray for peace and for joy in our society.  Ask God to remove any anger from ourselves and let’s show a different spirit to our world.  Let’s hold ourselves accountable for any cruel words spoken directly to others or on social media and ask God to give us a peaceful, joyful and generous heart towards others.  Pray too for those who have been at the receiving end of cruelty that they will be physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually healed.  Do remember that words can damage us hugely but our Lord can heal us completely.

• Let’s continue to pray for our economy as the businesses all over our nation begin to open up. Praise God for the opportunity of being able to go to a hairdresser, go to the shops and have a meal out in a garden.  Do pray for success for those businesses who can open up and that they will prosper in the weeks and months ahead.  Pray that the easing of lockdown would not cause the statistics to go up.  Pray that the lockdown dates will be upheld by the statistics.  Pray for hope to remain in our hearts and minds.  Continue to pray for those who cannot yet get back to work, like those who work in conferences, hospitality, theatres etc.  Pray that they will have the wisdom and resources to cope with the restrictions on them.  Let’s particularly pray for those who have lost jobs through this pandemic.  Pray that each person would find a good, reliable and enjoyable job.

• There are so many signs that God is moving in our world at this time, but we can also see the need for God to move even more deeply in our nation and in our world. I long for the day when our nation acknowledges God and turns to him in prayer.  Praise God for the obvious faith of our Sovereign.  We praise God for a Queen who loves and knows God, but let’s keep pressing into God and pray that our nation will come to know our faithful and loving God.  Keep praying for revelation of who He is.  Pray for many to turn their hearts and minds towards him.  Pray for supernatural dreams and visions.  Pray for God to have freedom in many hearts that have been closed to him for so long.  Continue to pray for Heaven’s armies to be released to bring salvation, repentance and freedom.  Let’s believe for more than ever before. 

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

Just recently I had to get my ears syringed because of wax within my ears.  It released the blockage and therefore I was immediately able to hear so much better.  The question I want to ask you is this: have we got a blockage spiritually?  Then like me make moves to get the blockage cleared so that you can hear the word of God so much easier.  Blockages can be anything that keeps you from having an intimate relationship with our God.  Perhaps something like unforgiveness, bitterness or pride?  Whatever the blockage, let’s confess it, ask for forgiveness and get it removed so that we can hear what the Lord is saying to us as individuals and as a nation.  He is always there for you.  He is constantly standing beside you cheering you on.  Let’s remove any blockage and train our ears to hear the cheers from Heaven over our lives.  Can you hear Heaven roar?  You are loved and adored fully and unconditionally.  Sending you all loads of love and a huge amount of encouragement – from your friend – NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day.  I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’  Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg
4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God.  Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA.  You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

Many of us over the last year or so have had to deal with loss of health or even loss of life of a family member or friend.  When I heard that the Queen had lost her husband of 73 years, my heart went out to her and I am sure many of you felt the same.  Any loss is hard, but losing your beloved husband who has been a strong support through the years and certainly was her best friend is so sad – especially when she is 94 years old.  I lost my own husband in 2016 and so I know how hard it can be.  We had been married for 43 years and loved each other immensely.  Through this week of mourning, let’s remember every day to pray for the Queen who has said that her husband’s absence will cause a huge void in her life.  I know when I lost my husband, I could not have gone through it without my relationship with my Heavenly Father.  He loved me through it and continues to do so every day since.  Let’s pray that the Queen will sense a deep awareness of the presence of a wonderful God who keeps close to the broken hearted.  According to Prince Andrew the Queen described his passing as a miracle.  Sophie, the Countess of Wessex said that his death was so peaceful “it was like someone took him by the hand and off he went.”  Let’s remember the Queen, but also look out for others in our society right now who are suffering loss too.  Death is never easy to navigate, but when you have a close relationship with the Lord, that really helps.  Today and every day, let’s thank God for his constant care for each of us.  And let’s introduce others to the one who has loved us and cared for us like no other.

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 16^th April 2021

1. What a joy to know that the statistics are still coming down.  We have been praying for this for a long time, so make sure we all tell the Lord we are so grateful.  It’s so wonderful to know that the death statistics, the hospital admissions and the cases continue to fall despite the schools being back etc.  Let’s pray that even as lockdown continues to be relaxed, that the statistics would continue to fall.  Praise God too for the vaccinations – we now have over 32 million people with the first jab and over 8 million with both jabs.  Do pray that the jabs will not produce any dangerous side effects whether in this country or abroad.  Let’s continue to pray for mainland Europe – so many countries are struggling to control this virus. Continue to pray that they are able to get supplies of the vaccine out to their people and that soon they will be able to get Covid-19 under control in each individual country.

2. This week lets pray for our Queen and for the whole of the Royal family.  Prince Philip’s funeral will be held tomorrow (Saturday) so let’s remember our precious Queen in particular.  I know how difficult a funeral can be and of course at the age of 94 it is even more difficult.  Pray for the presence of God to surround her at this time.  As I said in my blog, her children have mentioned her strong Christian faith and in particular how miraculous Prince Philip’s home call was.  Do pray for the Lord to be close to the Queen at this time.  She is broken-hearted and I know again from experience how much the Lord is close to the broken-hearted.  Let’s also pray for the turmoil in the family at this time with the interview of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.  Pray that family rifts will be healed and that the Queen would be comforted by having her family around her.  According to what we have seen and heard in the newspapers and from experts she is particularly fond of Prince Harry.  May his presence there be a comfort to her at this time.  Let’s continue to pray for our Prime Minister too.  Pray for all MP’s and for unity and support to be shown through trying to walk forward out of this pandemic.  Pray for wisdom for all.

3. We continue to pray for our NHS and for all who work within its walls.  Pray for health and strength for them all and pray that compassion and kindness remain a top priority at all times.  Praise God that the hospital admissions continue to go down.  Also pray for those who work in Care Homes or work as a carer for those who need help at home.  Praise God for kind and good carers who through their wonderful generosity and kindness bring healing to many.

4. Mental health remains a top priority for prayer at this time.  So many have been deeply affected by the lockdowns etc., and doctors are finding that more and more people approaching them for help.  Do pray for the mental health of our nation.  Pray that as lockdown happens, many will find the return to some sort of normality comforting, but also that they will find Jesus at this time.  Pray for people who know and love God to come alongside them and point them in the right direction.  Pray for counsellors to give good and wise advice that will lead to healing and wholeness.  Pray for supernatural dreams that will lead many to know and love the Lord

5. There are still riots and demonstrations happening – so let’s continue to pray for peace in our nation particularly in Northern Ireland.  Pray for our police force and pray for protection for them all.  Pray too against violence and racism.  Pray for the riots in Minnesota too.  Pray for peace and joy in our world.  Pray for wisdom for all.  Pray that the government and all world leaders will give wisdom through their words and deeds.  Pray for peace for the whole of the UK and also for our world.

6. We praise God that some parts of the economy are now back to normal.  Praise God that the shops are open and that businesses are able to proceed again.  Pray that the lockdown dates will be upheld by the statistics.  Pray for success for our economy and that it will bounce back well.  Pray for hope to remain in our land.  Pray for those who cannot yet get back to work, like conferences, hospitality, theatres etc.  Pray that they will have the wisdom to know how to ride out the restrictions on them.  Pray for those who have lost jobs through this pandemic.  Pray that each person would find a good reliable and enjoyable job.

7. We continue to pray for the spiritual side of our nation.  We long for a nation that acknowledges God and who loves the Lord our God.  Pray for many to turn their hearts and minds towards him.  Pray for supernatural occurrences in many lives.  Pray for God to have freedom in many hearts that have been closed to him for so long.  Continue to pray for Heaven’s armies to be released to bring salvation, repentance and freedom.  Pray for the UK but also pray for the world.  Every country needs to know the love and power of our God.

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk

Our God never fails us – no matter what you face in life, he is the answer!  When life is tough and when our peace and joy are threatened, let’s remember to sing our praises of our God.  Let’s worship him despite our circumstances.  Let’s not deny what we are going through but let’s put our trust in the one who can change our circumstances and who can bring good out of every bad situation.  The Lord told me this week when I was on a prayer walk with him to look up!  He said, “Nancy, look up and see the beauty of the world I have made.”  As I looked at the sky, the sunshine, the colours God had created, my heart began to sing and a smile came on my face.  So today and every day, let’s look up – let’s look into the beauty of the face of God.  Let’s look at his creation and see the beauty that surrounds us every day, but that we can so easily miss because our troubles seem so hard.  Let’s light up our dark world with the love and presence of our God.  Don’t look down, instead look up and see his beauty all around us.  Enjoy this day – and every day that our dear Lord gives us.  Sending you all loads of love and a huge amount of encouragement,

NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day.  I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’  Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg
4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God.  Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA.  You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

Many of you might have been taking the opportunity during lockdown to clean out your cupboards in your home.  I know friends of mine have done so and I have begun to work in my spare time doing just the same in my own home.  I have been amazed at how much clutter I have kept throughout the years without knowing it.  I cleaned out one small cupboard space and realised that I needed to take a trip to the local tip to get rid of all the stuff that I didn’t need anymore.  We tend to stick stuff into drawers and cupboards just to get it out of the way, never dealing with it and it all begins to clutter our home.  The same is true with our lives.  We often stuff things away in a corner of our minds thinking we will deal with it at a later stage but the time never presents itself to us.  Maybe we should take some time to not just declutter our homes, but declutter our hearts and minds too? 

We can find that our heart and mind can be filled with worries, fears, anxieties and problems.  Perhaps harsh words spoken by ourselves or by others have found a resting place in our hearts and minds and without us realising it – they have caused a constant pain that we live with.  Let’s examine ourselves before the Lord and allow him to declutter our hearts and minds.  Let’s forgive ourselves and others as we ask God to remove anything that has cluttered our lives and stuck to us over the months and years.  When we do, our lives will be much lighter and freer than we have known before.

I have been amazed recently at how many harsh and spiteful words have been written in social media platforms – some of those words by those professing to be Christians.  As the saying goes ‘Hurt people hurt people’ and maybe some of the authors of those words have hidden hurt somewhere inside of them.  All of us at times have been hurt, but it is important that spiritually we declutter so that the pain we have felt in the past is dealt with and not just stuffed down deep into our souls.  So, let’s ask God to declutter our hearts and minds so that what comes out of our mouth is what is on the heart of God for us and for others.  With this in mind – let’s pray for ourselves, our nation and our world on this National Day of Prayer.

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 9^th April 2021 

• Hallelujah the statistics are all still coming down. Let’s tell God how grateful we are that the death statistics, the hospital admissions and the cases continue to fall.  Let’s pray that even as lockdown continues to be relaxed, that the statistics would continue to fall.  The vaccination of people really has helped and now we have over 32 million people vaccinated and many of those are now fully vaccinated with two jabs.  Please pray that the jabs will not produce any dangerous side effects.  Let’s also continue to pray for mainland Europe – many countries are struggling at this time.  Pray that they are able to get supplies of the vaccine out to their people and that soon they will be able to get Covid-19 under control in each individual country.

• Let’s continue to pray for Boris Johnson. We have prayed for him and every MP for over a year now and I know our prayers will be making a difference in his life.  I was thrilled to see and hear his Easter message to the country where he acknowledged Jesus as being the way, the truth and the life.  If you missed it – then you can see it here:  https://youtu.be/t1oXVlu9PRw Let’s continue to pray for his health, for wisdom for him as he leads our country, but also pray for his spiritual life too.  Let’s pray for each MP and for the House of Lords too.  Pray for good godly men and women to lead our nation.  Pray too for our Queen and for her husband, Prince Philip.  Pray for good health for them both.  Pray for the rest of the royal family.  Pray for God’s blessing on them and for their lives to be spiritually impacted by the love and power of God. 

• Pray for everyone who works for the NHS – from cleaners to receptionists to nurses, doctors, surgeons. Each person no matter what they do is important.  Pray for health and strength for them all.  Pray that as the hospital admissions for Covid slows that they will have more time to process and recover from what they have been through.  We pray too for carers who care for people in their own homes and also in Care Homes.  Each one is so valuable.  Pray that they will rest in God and find strength each day to face the task they have been given.  Pray for kindness and gentleness to be evident in them all. 

• We continue to pray for the mental health of our nation and for healing to come to people who have been deeply affected by poor mental and emotional health. There are so many who are struggling at this time.  Doctors are having more and more people approach them asking for help.  We know that the Lord can help – so let’s pray for each person to discover a God who loves them and is ready to help them when they turn to him.  Pray for dreams from God that will soothe their soul and restore their peace.

• Do pray for the many riots and demonstrations we have seen recently that have resulted in violence in our nation. Many have attacked the police during the night.  Please pray for peace in our land and for the demonstrators not to turn to violence.  Pray for the police to have wisdom when they deal with this – but also that they would be protected as they do their job.  Pray that the government will give them help at this time.  Pray not just for our nation, but pray for peace in the whole world. 

• Let’s continue to pray for our economy. Praise God that non- essential shops can open up soon.  Many of us in England will be so glad we can soon have a haircut.  Pray for every business owner that they would have hope in their heart as we all move forward.  Pray that the economy will recover quickly.  We continue to pray for those businesses who cannot open up yet – like restaurants, hotels, theatres, music venues, conferences etc.  Pray that they will have the wisdom to know how to ride out the restrictions on them.  Pray for those who have lost jobs through this pandemic.  Pray that each person would find a good reliable and enjoyable job

• There are many signs that God is moving in our nation – so let’s keep praying into this. Pray for God’s Spirit to have freedom in our lives and in the lives of our nation and world.  Pray for Heaven’s armies to be released to bring salvation, repentance and freedom.  Pray for the UK but also pray for the world.  Every country needs to know the love and power of our God.   Pray for salvation for all.  Pray that many will see and hear and respond to all Jesus did on the cross 2000 years ago.  Let’s thank God that the Easter message went out loud and clear this year – pray that many will hear and receive the good news of our Lord Jesus.  He is risen – hallelujah!  He is with us always – an ever-present help in our time of trouble (Psalm 46:1).

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

The Lord remains constant in our ever-changing world.  He is constantly with us – our ever-present help in time of trouble.  So, let’s do what is says in Psalm 46 and not fear though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.  Read the psalm and see what our God does for each of us.  At the end of the psalm, it says:  The Lord Almighty is with us, the God of Jacob is our fortress.  He surely is!  He is with us and he is our strong protection always!  Woohoo!  So, let’s not fear and instead trust!  Sending you all loads of love and encouragement – NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day.  I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’  Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg
4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God.  Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA.  You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

Today we remember that Jesus died on the cross for us 2000 years ago!  We can never repay the love he showed us by dying in our place – all he requires us to do is to accept the love he showed as he suffered such agonies on the cross.  When we do – we exchange death for life.  We step from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light.  We choose to give him our life and choose to live the life he intended us to live; everlasting life in its fullest and best way.  He died so we might live.  But it doesn’t end at the cross.  If it did, then we would be the most miserable of people.  Instead, Jesus rose from the dead on the Sunday giving us every reason to celebrate. 

I remember a man many years ago preaching on this very subject and he kept saying throughout the whole sermon – It’s Friday, but Sunday is coming!  If it had ended with Jesus dying then nothing would have made sense.  But when Sunday happened and Jesus rose from the dead – what a victory!  He conquered sin, death and hell.  No wonder we can celebrate as Christians.  Yes, it’s Friday – the day when the disciples and all the friends of Jesus were confused, bewildered, saddened and in mourning, but what they forgot at the time was that Jesus had said he would rise from the dead and, of course, on the Sunday, he did just that.  Yes, it’s Friday, but Sunday is coming. 

 We need to remember that when we are praying about this pandemic.  We are living through terrible times.  It can feel like we are living in a day of disaster where many of us are in mourning, mourning lives that have been lost – vast numbers of people have died through this pandemic, but also mourning our own lives prior to March 2020 – we have not been able to lead normal lives for some time.  Loss is all around us.  But remember although it feels like a very long Friday – Sunday is coming!  One day this pandemic will be over – we might be living in our Friday but our Sunday is coming!  Let’s rejoice our Saviour died for us but let’s remember that on the third day he rose to give us the opportunity of knowing true life, victory and freedom.  Yes, it is Friday, but Sunday is coming!  Let’s pray with that knowledge in our hearts and minds today.

 A good way of being able to express our faith might be to share our Easter Special – it’s filled with joy, laughter and the real meaning of Easter.  You can see it here – feel free to share with others!   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAgX308hqYY&t=2s

 PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 2^nd April 2021 

1)     Praise God the statistics continue to fall.  This week has meant that we now have a little more freedom than we have had before.  Do pray that with this freedom and with the schools back that the statistics continue to fall.  Let’s thank God that hospital admissions are still falling.  Although new cases seem to be levelling off a little, they are still coming down slowly.  Also praise God that the death rate is still coming down drastically.  This is all good news!  We have now been able to vaccinate over 31 million people – and the government are on line to make sure every adult in the UK is given the opportunity of having the vaccine.   Let’s continue to pray for mainland Europe – as they are suffering hugely at this time.  Pray that they are able to get the vaccine and that soon they will be able to get Covid-19 under control in each individual country.  

2)     Please do pray for Boris Johnson as our Prime Minister and also for all MPs in Parliament.  Do pray for wise and good decisions and also for unity within the different parties.  Do pray for the Queen and also for Prince Philip as he continues to recover from his hospital visit.  Pray for all the Royal Family and pray for healing for them all.  Pray for world leaders too at this time.  If ever our leaders needed our prayers, it is now.  We may not agree with everyone, but what God has asked us to do is to pray for them.  So, let’s do that – pray for wisdom and strength for them.  Pray that each government will have wisdom to know how to lead their nation and in particular lead them out of this pandemic.

3)     We thank God for our nurses and doctors – in fact anyone who works for the NHS.  What a great health care system we have in this country.  Praise God for all in the NHS who work tirelessly for others.  Pray for everyone from cleaners to surgeons.  Pray for health and strength.  Pray for good mental health as well as physical health. Let’s continue to pray for those in hospital right now – that they would recover soon and be able to go home.  We also pray for those who work as carers – what a wonderful heart these people have.  They work so that people can stay in their homes, and they work for others who are in care homes.  Without their help, many would suffer badly.  Pray for them all, that each one would know the love and kindness of our good God to enable them to keep going in the midst of this crisis.  Do pray for each resident in a care home – that they would feel loved and cared for at this time in particular.

4)     Mental health is still one of the top things that is concerning people in our nation.  The government is trying to put programmes in place to help.  So many are struggling at this time – do pray for those who are vulnerable in this area.  Many who don’t normally suffer with anxiety and stress are finding the lockdown so difficult that their mental health is declining.  Let’s pray for everyone affected in this way.  We recognise that we sometimes cannot see that someone is suffering from poor mental or emotional health – so keep remembering to check on family and friends.  We may not understand what one person is going through, because we have not suffered this – but it is important for us all to pray and cover our friends and family.  Let’s show our love by continuing to pray and show kindness in practical ways.

5)     Praise God that the opening of schools, colleges and universities has gone well.  Pray that each young life would be protected.  Pray for students but also pray for teachers and lecturers that they would be protected against Covid-19.  Pray too that as lockdown expands that the cases, deaths and hospital intake would not soar.  Please do continue to pray for the students and school children’s mental, physical, emotional and spiritual lives.

6)     It is a real joy to have a little bit more freedom than we have had for some time.  Who would ever have thought that this pandemic would last over a year?  We praise God that some businesses can open up in April.  Do continue to pray for our economy.  All businesses have taken quite a bashing, some more than others, but now we can see a way through this so that we can have some sort of normality back.  Ask God to give each owner and businessman wisdom.  Pray that the bounce back in our economy will not be as long as is being predicted.  Let’s continue to pray for those in the hospitality, sport and performing arts sectors – each of these have been badly affected over this last year.  Pray for those who have lost their jobs.  Pray for more jobs to be released soon. 

7)     With all that is going on in our nation and in our world, it is so evident that we need to pray for a spiritual awakening!  Pray for the UK but also pray for the world.  Pray for Heaven’s armies to be released across the world to bring a deep awareness of our God.  Pray for salvation for all.  Pray that many will see and hear and respond to all Jesus did on the cross 2000 years ago.  Pray that many this Easter would turn to our God.  Let’s pray and then look for opportunities to share our faith in simple yet deep ways.

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

All that remains for me to say is that God is for us and with us.  He is fighting our battles and although we cannot see him, there is no doubt He is with us.  Rejoice and be glad for our great King is here and he will help us fight our battles.  You are not alone – not ever!  This Easter let’s celebrate him and all he has done for us. 

With loads of love and encouragement to you all – NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time:  do read below:

 Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day.  I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our

Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’  Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg

1. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God.  Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
2. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA.  You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

I read a number of verses in the Bible which were spoken by our Lord Jesus where he encourages us to pray and not to give up.  The temptation in our hearts when praying for something for some time is to give up and stop praying for it.  But in Luke 18 Jesus encourages us all not to give up.  He tells a story of a persistent widow who would not give up even after being told by the unjust judge that he would not answer her cries for help.  It says in verse 4 that he refused for some time to grant her the answer to her cries for justice.  Yet because of her persistence he eventually decided to grant her justice and do what he said he would not do because he valued his peace.  Jesus then went on to say:  Listen to what the unjust judge says.  Will not God bring justice for his chosen ones who cry out to him day and night?  Will he keep putting them off?  I tell you he will see that they get justice and quickly.  However, when the Son of Man comes will he find faith on the earth?

The story of the persistent widow has so much to teach us.  As I mentioned last week, I decided to be like that persistent widow when praying for my husband back in 1978 – I would not give up!  And God (who is so unlike the unjust judge) answered me within a day – although the full answer to my prayer took a year to come into completion.  Perhaps you have been praying for something for you, your family or a friend.  Perhaps you have not yet seen a breakthrough – then can I encourage you to keep on praying.  Some people in the Bible according to Hebrews 11 never saw the answer to their prayers in their lifetime, but they didn’t let that affect their faith, they kept on going and God did it in his time.  Abraham was told that his descendants would be like the sand on the seashore or the stars in the sky, but what he saw was a child called Isaac being born miraculously to him and Sarah when they were old.  God’s word was not fully accomplished in Abraham’s lifetime, but he kept the faith and throughout the years God brought it into being.  He will do the same for you.  Don’t give up praying for that salvation, that healing, that need – keep your faith strong for God will answer you because he loves you so very much. We have been praying now for the effects of Covid-19 for over a year now and have seen so many answers to our prayers, yet we must not give up.  We need to continue to pray and believe God until we see a breakthrough.  I’m going to be like the persistent widow – are you? 

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 26^th March 2021       

• We continue to rejoice that the statistics are still coming down – the death rate has fallen hugely and the cases continue to fall too as do the hospital admissions. Woohoo!  Let’s thank God and see this trend continue despite lockdown being eased.  Also thank God that we have been able to offer the vaccination to so many in the UK and that now over 29 million have now been vaccinated.  That means half of all adults have been vaccinated.  Do pray that every country will be able to get the vaccines and that everyone who wants to be vaccinated gets the chance to do just that.  Praise God too that the Oxford vaccination reports have all come back saying that this is a good and effective vaccine – reports were done in many nations – so this is good to hear. 

• We continue to pray for our National leaders and also the International leaders of the world. We continue to pray for the Queen and her precious family.  Let’s pray for our government and for Boris Johnson.  Pray for wisdom and strength for them.  It’s been hard to see the demonstrations against the police recently in Bristol.  Do pray for peace to reign and for hate crimes to be irradicated.  Do pray for the police that they will deal with this in the correct and legal way.  Pray that our police force will know the strength and grace of the Lord on them right now.  Pray for lockdown to happen on the scale that the government have outlined and that there is a way forward for our world.

• Praise God for the NHS and for all the staff that work within its walls. Pray for cleaners to surgeons.  Pray for health and strength.  Pray for good mental health as well as physical health.  They put themselves on the front line every day and they have to deal with very difficult situations.  Hospital admissions are slowing down which is wonderful.  Let’s continue to pray for those in hospital – that they would recover soon and be able to go home.  We continue to pray for those precious people who are working as carers.  Pray for them physically and mentally too.  They are wonderful people who care for others who are in need.  Without their help they would not be able to survive by themselves.  Do pray for care homes up and down our nation – for the staff and also for the residents.

• Our nation is quickly becoming a nation with poor mental health. There’s so many suffering from this right now.  People who would normally never suffer in this way are suffering too.  Let’s pray for everyone affected in this way.  This is an illness – you may not be able to see it like you would a broken arm – but please realise that this is just as real.  As well as praying, let’s keep our eyes open to see if we can help in any way.  A kind word or a word of wisdom can be a lifeline to many.  We may not understand what one person is going through, because we have not suffered in this way – but this is a real issue for many.  Let’s be generous with our time.  Let’s show our love.  Let’s be kind.  Kindness is so needed in our nation right now.  There is often such a lack of kindness – let’s show what Jesus is really like – and show the fruit of the spirit through our lives – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.   Let’s draw down the presence of God on us and share the fruit of the Spirit to all around us.

• Let’s continue to pray for young people everywhere. Pray for their young minds to have wisdom beyond their years.  Pray for them to be constantly learning and growing in grace, peace and joy.  Pray for all young people as they go to school, college and university.  Do continue to pray for the teachers too and for them and the students to be protected against Covid-19.  Pray that all will be safe.  Continue to pray for their mental, physical, emotional and spiritual lives.

• We thank God that there is a road map out of lockdown for our economy. It will be so good to see businesses opening up.  Pray for the UK’s economy.  Pray that our economy will have grace and favour on it.  Let’s continue to pray for those in the hospitality, sport and performing arts sectors.  They have suffered badly and many have gone under.  Pray for each person involved in this struggle.  There have been many who have lost their jobs and have no hope of ever finding one again.  Do pray for many who have taken a job that they don’t like in order to bring some finance into their home.  Please pray for more jobs to be released soon.  Pray for hope, pray for strength, pray for joy through it all.

• We live in a divided nation – divided by countries (Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales), but divided in other ways too. We are divided in the way we think and believe.  No wonder Jesus asked us to pray for unity.  Even believers in our nation and in our world are divided.  Let’s pray for unity as Jesus asked us to do in John 17.  Let’s pray for peace.  Let’s pray for joy and grace.  Let’s pray for revival and for the hearts of our nation to turn to God in prayer and find God is sufficient in all things.  Pray for ourselves that we would be covered by the grace and love of Jesus.  That we wouldn’t be causing division, but that we would bring the peace of Christ in all circumstances.  Pray that we will be controlled by the Holy Spirit in everything we say and do.  God is with us and for us – so be encouraged and lay ourselves down before him.

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

As we are approaching Easter, we at ngm have done a video for the church and individuals to use to reach others at this time.  It is completely free and is available for all.  Please do watch it here:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YAgX308hqYY&t=2s

and feel free to use it in your church services, groups or just to pass on to your friends and family.  We have such an amazing message – Christ died for us all and through his life, death and resurrection we can have life to the full.  Our world needs hope at this time and we have an amazing message of hope for all.  If you have any questions about this Easter Special – then do please contact us on zoewickham@ngm.org.uk.  Let’s celebrate the good news of Jesus now and always.  With loads of love and encouragement to you all – NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time:  do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day. I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’ Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg
4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God. Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA. You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

A year ago, on March 20^th I sent out the very first prayer points for a National Day of Prayer regarding covid-19 – I was asked by someone on Facebook if I would organise this as they felt lots of people wanted to pray.  I felt very unsure about doing this for who am I to organise a National Day of Prayer – it should be our government or our Queen, but I decided because of the nudges I was getting to do it anyhow.  Once that first week was over, two friends asked if I would do it every week and now, here we are 12 months later having now done this every week for a year!  Who would ever have thought?  So much has been accomplished during this year – the Lord has moved in people’s lives and hearts not only in the UK but right across the world.  I have received so many emails and messages telling me what God has done as people have prayed.  It has been incredible.  Many have been encouraging me to keep on going as they love the blogs and also find that the prayer points help them to focus their prayers.

I believe it’s important to keep going in prayer until we see an answer.  I remember many years ago before my husband and I came into full time Christian work, my husband was going through a crisis of faith.  I knew I had to pray for him.  My heart was broken as I realised without God’s help our lives could be so different.  I prayed and prayed but the heavens seemed like brass.  Have you ever experienced that?  But I would not give up!  One day as I cried and poured out my heart to God, God answered me.  If he had spoken audibly, he could not have spoken any louder.  He told me that he had heard my prayers and had seen my tears and if I could see what he was going to do in my husband, I would not believe it.  He told me not to pray anymore, but instead to praise him for what he was going to do.  I did what the Lord told me to do, even though there was no change in Ray’s life.  I was, at times, discouraged because I could not see what God was doing, but I asked God to forgive me for not trusting him, and then continued to praise him as he had instructed me to do.  After seven months, I began to see a glimmer of hope.  Was God working in Ray’s life?  I kept going and then a breakthrough happened.  God revealed himself to Ray in a way that completely changed him.  I looked in my diary to see how long it took for my prayer to be answered and was so surprised to see it was exactly a year to the day that I had prayed and sought God.  God had turned my husband’s life around completely.  It was as though I had a new husband!  God was right I could never have believed what God did in my husband then and also during the next 36 years before his death in 2016.  (If you want to know more of the story – then you can find it in my book Who Would Ever Have Thought which is an autobiography of the last 40 years of our lives.)  Can I encourage you – whatever you are praying for – keep praying until you get an answer from God.  Don’t give up.  Keep on going.  When you do get a promise from God – follow his instructions and know in your heart that even if it takes a while – he is faithful and he will do what he has promised.  On this anniversary of us starting these National Days of Prayer – let’s trust God more and more for what we want to see.  We can certainly see light at the end of the tunnel, so let’s keep praying and let’s trust God to bring us right the way through this pandemic. 

There is also a National Day of Reflection (as they have called it – organised by the charity Marie Curie) on 23^rd March to remember the many thousands who have died during this last year from Covid-19.  We have all been encouraged to observe a minute’s silence at 12.00 on that day – and also light up our doorsteps that night. Prominent buildings and landmarks will also be illuminated across the UK.  It was on that day in 2020 that the Prime Minister warned that many families would lose their loved ones before their time.  On that date last year there were 335 who had died and now a year later there are over 146,000 who have Covid-19 on their death certificate according to government figures.

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 19^th March 2021       

• Praise God the statistics are still coming down – let’s keep praying for them to fall despite that the schools are back and lockdown is beginning to happen. Pray that lockdown will soon be a thing of the past and that we can begin to look towards the future.  Many are weary of lockdown and it is awful to see so many suffering from mental health problems.  Praise God for the vaccine and that we now have well over 25 million vaccinated in the UK.  Pray for other nations that they too will get the vaccines out there and available for their citizens.  There is a lot of news reports about the Oxford vaccination, do pray that these questions will be answered thoroughly and honestly.  Do continue to pray for those who have the virus right now – many of them are still in hospital.  Pray that they will recover swiftly.  Pray too for those who have lost a loved one to this virus; pray the comfort of the Holy Spirit upon all.

• We continue as the Bible tells us to do and pray for our National Leaders – let’s pray for our Prime Minister, Boris Johnson and also for all MP’s whatever party they belong to. There are so many petty arguments and often comments are made to score political points.  Pray for each MP that they would work for the greater good of the country and not aim to score political points each time they speak.  Pray for those who give wisdom to the government – pray for good godly wisdom and good decisions to be made for our country and for our world.  Praise God that Prince Philip is out of hospital and is recovering at Windsor Castle with the Queen.  Do pray that his recovery is swift and good.  It’s great that he and the Queen are back together again.  It can’t have been easy for them to be separated. Pray for all the Royal Family – pray for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex who are expecting another child.  Pray for a good and easy pregnancy.  Do pray against the media storm there has been over the interview given recently.  Whatever you think about what was said – let’s pray for reconciliation and great relationships between every member of the Royal Family. 

• Praise God for the NHS and for all the staff that work within its walls. Pray for cleaners to surgeons.  Pray for health and strength.  Pray for good mental health as well as physical health.  They put themselves on the front line every day and they have to deal with very difficult situations.  There is still a huge amount of people in hospital suffering with covid so pray for each one.  Pray that they will recover and soon be able to go home.  Let’s pray too for those who are carers in homes.  Pray for them physically and mentally too.  Praise God for wonderful carers who love to help others in need.  Pray for those in care homes and who have not been able to see their relatives.  Praise God that they can see one relative or friend now and pray that it will soon be that they can see all their loved ones soon. 

• Poor mental health is a hard issue to deal with. Do pray for those who are suffering from this.  Many more are suffering from this because of lockdown.  It is often difficult to spot and also to manage, but let’s keep our eyes open to see where a word of wisdom or a kind gesture would be like a lifeline to some.  Let’s be generous and let’s not be hard of heart.  We may not understand what one person is going through, but let’s give each other the benefit of the doubt.  Pray for peace!  Pray for joy! Pray for life!  All these things come through Jesus.  Do pray many will find Jesus at this time.  He knows.  He understands and he cares.  Let’s be his hands and feet to others around us.

• Again, let’s pray for our young people. Praise God that they are all back at school now.  Praise God that they are able to see their friends and also receive teaching direct from their teachers.  Pray for those who are in colleges and universities.  Pray that every young person, teacher and lecturer will feel protected.  Pray that all will be safe.  Pray for the pupils and students’ mental health in particular.   Pray that they will find peace at this time and will have wisdom too on how to act and move into the future. 

• Praise God that some of our economy can go back to work soon. It will be so good to see businesses opening up.  Pray for the UK’s economy.  Pray that it will be bounce back quickly.  Pray for those who cannot open up as yet – areas like hospitality can only open partially – we can have a meal outside soon.  Pray for those who cannot open at all until June – hospitality, theatres, music venues etc., have been hit the hardest.  Pray for each person involved in this struggle.  Continue to pray for people who have lost their jobs – pray that they will find suitable jobs very soon.  In all of this – do pray that we will all not lose hope but will hang on to God through this time. 

• Pray for ourselves. Pray for revival hearts – pray that we will develop a deeper and more vibrant relationship with our Lord.  Praise him for keeping us through this last year and praise him that we serve a living God.  He is not deaf to our prayers – he hears everyone and he answers us.  Let’s keep our eyes and our ears open to the voice and heart of God.  Let’s continue to pray for many to find our God – for many to come into a deep relationship with him.  Pray for peace and joy for each of us.  Pray we will overflow in hope, joy and peace and that others will see a huge difference in our lives – so much so that they ask how we can have such peace in the midst of turmoil.  Let’s be ready to give an answer that points them to Jesus.  Pray too that when we remember those who have died this last year that we will also remember those who are left behind who are living with huge loss.  Pray for many to turn to Christ at this time.   

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

A testimony is powerful and it often encourages us that if God has done it once then he can do it again.  I remember going to a church in The Wirral where I met a woman who, after she heard my testimony about what had happened to Ray, came and asked for prayer.  She told me her husband needed God and I encouraged her to pray for him and not to give up until she heard from God.  Sometime later a friend of mine went to speak at that church.  He did not know about the lady who had prayed for her husband.  But during that weekend – he picked out several people and brought them to the front of the church – he then asked the women’s husband to come out and asked him in what way was he connected to all these people that my friend had picked out.  He said you have picked out all my family, including my wife’s mother and father and even my son’s girlfriend.  My friend then went on to give him a word from God.  He told him that God loved him so much and that he wanted to get to know him.  He then pointed to his wife and said, “The Lord says it’s over!  You don’t need to fight anymore. It’s done!”  That night she looked back her diary and she was amazed to discover that it was a year to the day when I told her to pray for her husband.  It is interesting to know that my friend’s visit to this church was postponed at one point – he should have been there earlier, but it had to be changed.  God’s timing is always perfect!  So, let’s keep praying – let’s not lose our hope – He is able, he is faithful and he will deliver what he has promised.  With loads of love and encouragement to you all –

NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time:  do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day. I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’ Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg
4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God. Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA. You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end

One day this week, I was asking God to show me what to write in these prayer points, as I usually do, I saw a picture of David in the Old Testament going out to face Goliath.  He was such a tiny little chap with no armour on him.  All he had was a little sling and a few stones.  He looked so small and so vulnerable as he faced this massive 9-foot-tall giant called Goliath who was covered from head to foot in armour.  Goliath’s sword was massive and his voice boomed across the valley.  When he saw David, he laughed and mocked him. 

I thought to myself, “What great faith David had to face this giant!”  At that moment God spoke and said, “It wasn’t that he had great faith so much but more the picture David had in his mind of me.”  David’s picture of his God was huge – his God was much bigger than the giant he was facing.  This giant was huge, over 9 foot tall, but his God was so much bigger and so much stronger.  David knew that his God had saved him before when he faced a bear and a lion and so he knew God could easily defeat this giant.  What giant are you facing right now?  Is it the giant of fear?  Worry?  Anxiety? 

Ill health?  Lack of money?  Whatever it is – how do you see it?  Is it huge in your mind?  Is it bigger than your God?  Are you seeing God as he truly is – the God of all hope – the God who saves – the God who heals – the God of miracles?  Is he bigger in your mind than the problem you have?  Jesus told us in this life you will have trouble, but take heart I have overcome the world.  Are you believing the truth of the word of God or are you listening to the lies of the enemy who loves to sow fear and worry into us all?  If we want to overcome the enemy, first of all we must get the right picture in our minds of who our God really is and the only way to do that is to know him and welcome his presence into your life.  And secondly, believe him and his word rather than what the enemy says.  Remember Jesus is the truth and the enemy only speaks his native language – lies!  Let’s remember who our God is as we pray today!

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 12^th March 2021       

• The statistics continue to fall although there are a number of places where the cases are a little higher. It’s been amazing to watch the statistics come right down.  Cases, hospital admissions and deaths are all falling steeply.  We have much to thank God for.  The vaccine programme is working well and we now have well over 23 million people vaccinated against this disease.  More and more people are being vaccinated every day. They are on track for every adult to be offered a vaccination before the end of July.  Let’s praise God for all he has been doing and for the encouragement and hope we have that helps us to keep going during this lockdown.  We now have the schools back and some of the shops will begin to open up in April.  I’m sure many of us will be pleased that the hairdressers will be opening up soon.    Do continue to pray for those who have the virus right now –pray that they will recover swiftly.  Pray too for those who have lost a loved one to this virus; pray the comfort of the Holy Spirit upon them all.

• Let’s pray for our Prime Minister, for all MP’s whatever party they belong to and for all who give them advice and wisdom. Pray that the government will administer the right decisions for our nation.  Pray that the budget they have just delivered would be the right decisions for our nation.  Pray for unity between each political party.  Pray for our Royal Family – especially Prince Philip who is still ill in hospital.  Pray for healing for him.  Pray for the Queen as she is without her husband at Windsor Castle.  Pray for the media storm over the interview with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.  Pray that the media will not fuel the storm but will report it accurately.  Also there have been so many negative and destructive words spoken about the Royal Family, The Duke and Duchess, our Prime Minister and our MP’s.  It’s sad to realise that some of these comments come from those who know and love the Lord Jesus.  Let’s think before we speak – our words can damage people but also people are looking at our response and tearing someone down is not a good thing to do – so let’s pray, speak and spread encouragement, blessing and hope in today’s world.

• Let’s keep praying for the NHS staff and also for carers everywhere. These wonderful people give of themselves so much – so let’s pray for good physical health, strength and good mental health too.  There is a lot of negativity about them only getting a 1% pay rise in the budget – let’s pray that they will still feel enriched by their calling.  Pray that God will provide all they need.  Pray for those who are still in hospital.  Remember that although the numbers are coming down, there are many more in hospital than normal for this time of year. Pray that these numbers will continue to come down and that those suffering from COVID-19 will recover soon.  Praise God that each person in care can see one relative in person now.  

• We continue to pray for those who struggle with their mental health. Let’s pray for so many who have struggled with lockdown and who have felt deep darkness through this time.  Life in all its fullness only comes through knowing and loving Jesus.  Do pray that people will find Jesus – the one who identifies with all we go through in life.  He understands our pain and our sorrows and we can trust him to carry them for us.  Let’s spread love, joy and peace by loving those around us and serving Jesus in any way we can. 

• Please do cover the young people going back to school this week. Pray for those who have already returned in Scotland and Wales.   Pray for safety for all and that they will enjoy returning to their schools.  Pray that teachers would feel safe and protected too.  Pray that the students whether in schools, colleges and universities will not only be protected, but also will find that they are enjoying learning once more. 

• Let’s continue to pray for our economy – we have a long journey to go, but please do pray that our God guides and guards each business and that our journey into provision will be a good one. Let’s pray that it will not take as long as they are thinking it will to get the economy back on track.  Pray especially for those in hospitality, sport and the performing arts.  It has been a long hard struggle for these areas of business.  Pray that people who have lost their jobs will find suitable jobs very soon. Particularly pray that people will not lose hope. 

• Of course, we cannot forget the spiritual climate of our nation and indeed our world. This is so important.  Let’s pray for a tidal wave of God’s Spirit to bring revival and a deep awareness of who our God is.   Do continue to pray that many will come to know the Lord in these days and that they will find immense peace and joy.  Pray for a deeper move of God’s Spirit across our land in these days!  

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

 We have been told in the Bible 365 times ‘Do Not fear’ – one instruction for each day of the year!  As well as this Jesus, himself, told us not to worry.  Fear is a killer – it kills our faith and our hope.  The definition of the word worry means to choke or to strangle – and that is exactly what worry does – it strangles us and chokes the life out of us.  Both fear and worry are designed to kill us.  Jesus came into this world to bring life and bring life in all its fullness.  So, let’s decide here and now to live.  Let’s not worry, let’s not fret, let’s not fear but instead let’s live despite any giant we face.  Let’s trust in our huge BIG God no matter what we face in life.  He is able, he is faithful and he can do it. 

With loads of love and encouragement to you all – NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time:  do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day. I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’ Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg
4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God. Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA. You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_re

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time – do read the information at the bottom of this report which includes how this started and tips and pointers to help you during this COVID time. 

Early on Sunday morning as I was reading my Bible, I read a verse in Galatians 6: 9 that seemed to jump out of the page at me and knew immediately that I needed to share it with you.  It says:  Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up!  Verse 10 goes on to say:  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

I want to encourage you not to give up in doing good – not to give up praying, not to give up believing for the best, not to give up in our faith, not to give up in speaking good things over people, not to give up in doing good.  On social media, I am always astonished at how many people, (Christians as well as those who are not Christians), who don’t do good to others, instead who bring them down with negative and damaging words.  Even if we don’t agree with what we think others are doing/saying, we would be better to say nothing than add hurts and insults to a fellow human being.  The Lord instructs us to do good to others, so bless them and bring them before God in your prayers.  Let’s not cast a judgemental ‘stone’, but instead remember we are all sinners saved by grace.  Remember Jesus said in John 8:7, “If any one of you is without sin, let him cast the first stone.”  Even in our prayers, let’s remember not to judge, but to ask the Lord for grace and mercy for ourselves and for others.  So today as we pray, let’s not judge our national leaders, the Royal Family, our spiritual leaders, our friends and indeed our families, instead, let’s pray with a clean and pure heart knowing that God loves and cares for us all.  Let’s not get tired of doing what is right, let’s not get tired of praying for change, let’s not get tired of praying for revival, for the wave of His Spirit, because at the right time we will reap a harvest, IF we do not give up!  Be encouraged my friends and let’s pray. 

PRAYER POINTS FOR FRIDAY 5^th March 2021          

• It’s been amazing to watch all the statistics come right down. Cases are lower now than they were in October last year.  Cases, hospital admissions and deaths are all falling steeply.  We have much to thank God for.  Some places in London have now got zero new cases.  The vaccine programme is working well and we now have well over 21 million people vaccinated against this disease.  More and more people are being vaccinated every day. Let’s praise God for all he has been doing and for the encouragement and hope we have that helps us see the end of this lockdown.  Let’s rejoice that there are good signs that we are on the road to recovery.  Pray for those with the virus right now that they will recover swiftly.  Pray too for those who have lost a loved one to this virus – pray the comfort of the Holy Spirit upon them all.

• Let’s continue to pray for our government, all our MP’s and the Prime Minister. Pray for all world leaders.  Pray for our Royal Family – especially Prince Philip who is still ill in hospital.  Pray for healing for him.  Also pray for wisdom for leaders everywhere.  Let’s thank God for the budget yesterday – the government had a tough time to decide what to do for the future of our country – so let’s pray that this budget works and helps all of us.  Praise God for the help that the businesses are getting and let’s pray that our economy bounces back quickly.  Most of all pray for unity between the political parties and for the media too to report honestly and accurately.

• Let’s thank God our NHS staff – from cleaners to surgeons they have been brilliant throughout this last year. Praise God that admissions to hospitals are coming down each day and especially that those being admitted to ICU is coming down too.  Pray for those still in hospital that they would recover and be able to go home soon.  Pray that the staff will have time soon to rest and recover from this traumatic year.  Pray for their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.  Pray for those who work in hospitals who are Christians that they will be able to share their faith with their colleagues.  Praise God too for those who work in Care Homes – there are so many amazing caring people in this industry.  Do pray for them and do pray for their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health.  Pray too that they will receive the rest that they need.  Pray for those in care homes to know the kindness and the love of God in their lives.   

• Many have struggled with lockdown and the fear of this virus.   Many in our nation (Christians as well as those who are not yet Christians) are struggling with their mental health and so we need to continue to pray for people to find peace and joy.  Life in all its fullness only comes through knowing and loving Jesus.  Do pray that people will find Jesus – the man of truth and the man of peace.  If ever we need truth it is now.  It’s the truth of the word of God that will set people free.  Jesus brings life where there is death, he brings joy where there is fear and gives peace instead of turmoil.  Let’s spread his hope, love and peace around by allowing the God of all hope to have full freedom in our lives.  

• Praise God that the schools in England go back on 8^th Pray for each child as they return to a little bit of normality.  Pray that the transition would be a good one for all.  Pray for those who have already gone back to school in Wales and Scotland.  Pray that each child and each teacher will be kept safe from all harm.  Pray for a quick return to good mental and emotional health for each pupil.  Pray that each pupil will quickly learn the things they found hard to learn in lockdown.  Pray that all will enjoy going back to school, college or university. 

• Let’s continue to pray for businesses, for those in hospitality and the performing arts too. Pray for a solution for all.  Many have been on a long, hard journey with very little hope of surviving in their industry.  Pray for hope for each one.  Pray for wisdom for each CEO, director, producer, management as well as workers and performers.  Pray that they will get sufficient help to be able to continue through the last bit of lockdown.  Pray too that all will be able to open up in June (or before) as the government have suggested might be possible.  Continue to pray for those who have lost their jobs in this last year; let’s pray that many jobs will suddenly become available as lockdown begins to be released.  Particularly pray that people will not lose their hope. 

• Let’s continue to pray for the spiritual health of our nation and of our world. Let’s continue to pray for many to come to know our God.  Pray for churches as they look to open their buildings – pray that they will see many attending their services.  Pray for church leaders; pray for wisdom to know how to change to accommodate those who are seeking.  Some churches are finding more people attending their online services and others are finding the numbers declining.  Pray for a deeper move of God’s Spirit across our land.  

Do you need prayer?  What a joy it has been to pray for those who have asked for prayer in recent months.  We are seeing many answers to our prayers.  Remember if you or others need prayer do drop us an email and we will pray.  Don’t forget our prayer line if you or others need prayer – prayer@ngm.org.uk 

Here in the UK and beyond, we seem to love to pull others down.  We sometimes think they have risen beyond their station in life and so we need to make sure they know their place by sharing some negative words about them which would suggest that if you knew them the way I know them, you would know they are not what they seem!  But as Billy Graham said, It’s the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge and not ours.  It’s our job to love and this is what we must do.  Jesus said the two greatest commandments are these:  We should love the Lord God with all our heart, soul and mind and our neighbour (everyone around us) as ourselves.  So, let’s love God with everything we have, because when we do, we begin to love and value ourselves more.  Then let’s love others with the same love and value you have come to know about yourself.  You are beautiful, glorious, incredible, wonderful, you are special, you are valued, loved, adored and favoured.  No matter what our past is like, it’s gone under the blood of Jesus.  Let’s not remind ourselves or those around us of our past – God doesn’t remember it, so neither should we.  If we have given our lives to God, then we are a new creation, we have the living God living inside of us.  As Paul says in Galatians 2:20, we no longer live, but Christ lives in us.  We are forgiven, we are clean and pure – so let’s not judge ourselves or others, instead let’s continue to speak words of affirmation to all including yourself.  When we speak kind words to each other, it makes a massive difference in those around us.  Try it and see – so next time you find your mouth speaking negatives, stop and apologise and start to speak goodness, kindness and share love, joy and peace to all around (See Galatians 5:23).  As Paul says in Galatians 5:25-26 – Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.  Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other!  Instead, let’s build each other up and show by our actions and our words who our Lord Jesus really is.  With loads of love and encouragement to you all – 

NANCY GOUDIE

For those who are reading these prayer points for the first time, do read below:

Setting the scene

On 20^th March 2020 I called for a National Day of Prayer, not only for the UK, but also for others who live further afield.  A few days after it was over two friends contacted me and asked if I would do a National Prayer Day every Friday, and asked if I would continue to give some pointers each week for prayer.  After prayer, I took up the challenge of doing just that.  Thank you for joining us.  To read previous prayer points and encouragements – go to www.nancygoudie.com/blog/

Helpful instructions/suggestions:

1. Set your phone, your watch, your alarm clock or whatever to remind you to pray throughout the day. I would suggest praying every hour for a few minutes or for as long as you wish, but make a time that is suitable for yourself.
2. Maybe pray for one of the above pointers every hour – or take one for each day of the week.
3. Every time you wash your hands, which should be often – then pray a ‘Heal Our Nation’ prayer – sing or speak the lyrics of ‘Heal our Nation’ and ask God to pour out his Spirit on this land.  ‘Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, Heal our Nation, pour out your Spirit on this land.’  Sing or speak that twice.  And finish with the first line from the verse ‘Lord we long for you to move in power’ – and ask God to move in the UK but also move in our world.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoZwje7Ogkg

4. Keep reading Psalm 91, Psalm 121 and Psalm 46 to encourage yourself and your family with the truth of the word of God. Perhaps try meditating on Psalm 62:5-6 – Find rest, O my Soul in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken.
5. Use the UK Blessing – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUtll3mNj5U Play it in your home – make this as a wonderful blessing on you and your family, your children and their children. When you go a walk pray it over your neighbourhood. The song was written in Elevation church, USA. You can watch here and discover how the song came together in the presence of the Lord – no wonder this song is being used at this time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp6aygmvzM4&feature=emb_rel_end