A visitor of Demaratus, king of Sparta, asked him, “Why is disgrace visited upon those who lose their shields, but not those who lose their helmets or breastplates?”

He responded,  because they "put [these] on for their own sake, but the shield is for the common good of the whole line.”

The church has lost her shield of prayer because of her unwillingness to cover those around her. When we pray, we often cover our own needs and neglect those outside of our immediate concern, leaving members of the body unnecessarily exposed to the schemes of the enemy.

I’ve done this. I’ve thought about my own needs before the needs of others. I am often quicker to pray for my own prosperity than the needs of those I have relationship with.
Jon Tyson said, “If you love someone and you want more for them than you can personally give, it will move you to intercession. It will move you beyond your abilities into the heart and power of God, to ask him to act on behalf of others.”

Not only does our prayerlessness reveal our idolatry but also our tragic lack of love for those we’d proclaim we care for.

The New Testament is full of examples of people asking for others to cover them in prayer. In nearly every letter, Paul asks churches to pray for him.

To the Romans he asks them, “to strive together with me in your prayers to God on my behalf” (Romans 15:30-32).

To the Corinthians he says, “You also must help us by prayer” (2 Corinthians 11:1).

To the Philippians he declares that through their prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, “this will turn out for my deliverance” (Philippians 1:18-20).

To the Colossians, he commands them to “continue steadfastly in prayer” and asks them “to pray also for us” (Colossians 4:2-4).

To Philemon, he believes that through Philemon’s prayers he will be able to come to him (Philemon 1:22).

And to the Thessalonians, twice he writes “brothers, pray for us.”

If Paul, writer of over half of the New Testament, found it necessary to ask people to pray for him, how much more do we need prayer? We may be tempted to think that Paul’s great calling gave him permission to ask entire congregations to pray for him, yet does God not have a great calling for you and the lives of those around you? We think too lowly of what God can accomplish through us by faith in his name. We live in a prayerless time, and without prayer, few things are accomplished.

The enemy is content with a prayerless and therefore powerless Christianity. We reveal our lack of faith in what God wants to do by our lack of prayer. And for those who do pray, we are often ignorant of the enemy’s workings in our lives and the lives of those around us.
We often will proclaim that the eyes of the Lord are looking for those whom he can give strong support (2 Chronicles 16:9) without remembering that our “adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).

Sam Gibson, director of pray.nyc called the enemy, “a lawyer and a terrorist.” We do not need to be afraid of the enemy, but like Paul, we should be able to say, “we are not unaware [of the Satan’s] schemes” (2 Corinthians 2:11).

We must cover our brothers and sisters in Christ in prayer.

When Spartan soldiers went to battle, they’d often use a phalanx, a dense formation of soldiers standing shoulder to shoulder with overlapping shields. These shields would protect the soldiers to their right and left, and even those behind them, from incoming projectiles.

To effectively recover our prayer shield as the body of Christ, each of us should resolve to pray for those who are in authority over us, those who are running beside us, and those we are investing in.

A few weeks ago, Sam Gibson shared a simple 10-part framework to pray for ourselves and believers around us.

1. Confess: I confess Jesus Christ is Lord over my mind, body, and the universe.

Daily confession of Jesus Christ as Lord reminds us of who we are in relation to the Creator of the Universe. He is Lord, we are not. He is uncreated, we are creation. "The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof" (Psalm 24:1).

2. Crucify: I choose to live a crucified life today.

Jesus makes it clear, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 16:24-25). The problem with a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) is its tendency to get up and walk off the altar. We must daily choose to live a life submitted to Jesus and not our own fleshly desires.

3. Cut: I cut off every demonic assignment, agreement, and attachment in the name of Jesus.

Believers can often think that we live in a world where there is no enemy. John makes it clear, “the whole world lies in the power of the evil one” (1 John 5:19). Similar to how there are God given assignments, agreements, and attachments – there are also demonic assignments, agreements and attachments. We must be vigilant to cut off their authority and power in our lives and the lives of those around us.

4. Cancel: I cancel every demonic curse, hex, vex, and spell in the name of Jesus.

Darkness is real. Curses are real. So are spells. You may have not heard the terms hex or vex before but, they are forms of curses that agents of evil will place on believers that will act as a filter – keeping you from seeing people rightly and others from viewing you rightly. The blood of Jesus and name of Jesus have power. Canceling these allow us to walk in the authority God has given us in greater measure.

5. Confuse: Jesus, I ask that you would confuse and destroy every demonic scheme, strategy, system, and snare.

Our God is not a God of confusion when it comes to spiritual gifts, but he does confuse the enemy (Exodus 23:27) with David going even as far as asking God to “confuse the wicked” in Psalm 55:9. Like David, we should boldly ask God to confuse and destroy the enemy's plans in our lives and those around us.

6. Cover: Jesus, cover me/them in your blood.

The blood of Jesus is the most powerful substance in the universe. By the blood of Jesus we are forgiven, set free, made right with God, healed, delivered, and given a joy-filled abundant life that lasts into eternity. We ask God for the ability to walk in the freedom and power that was purchased for us on the cross.

7. Conceal: Jesus, conceal me/them in the shadow of your wings.

The enemy is looking for those whom he can devour. David continually asked God to be hidden from the enemy’s schemes and plans.
In Psalm 17:9, David asks to be hidden in the shadow of God’s wings.
In Psalm 27:5, David declares that he will be hidden in the shelter of God’s sacred tent.
In Psalm 64:2, David asks to be hidden “from the conspiracy of the wicked, from the plots of evildoers.”

We similarly should boldly ask God to hide us from the enemy.

8. Canopy: Jesus, place a canopy of fire over my/their life.

Isaiah 4:5-6 says, “Then the Lord will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over everything the glory will be a canopy. It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain.”

The fire of God is the consuming presence of God. We are asking for God’s presence to cover and protect us and our community.

9. Clarity: Jesus, give me/them clarity in seeing, hearing, and understanding God and others.

One of the primary questions I am asked is, “Do you think this was God?” We often sort through whether an invitation was from God, our flesh, or the devil before we act with conviction. We are asking God to bring clarity as we discern our hearts and the hearts of others.

10. Conviction: Jesus, give me/them conviction and faith.

"Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). Would we be a people that walk in faith, conquering kingdoms, administering justice, and gaining what was promised to us from heaven." (Hebrews 11:33).


Praying through these 10 C’s takes 45 seconds – 1 minute per person. If each person reading took 10-15 minutes asking that God move in this way, I believe we will see a tangible difference in our communities if we persevere.

One of our members who currently is in the Middle East declared, that praying this for himself and others has been life changing. I personally have received immense strength and stability after just a few weeks of praying this for myself, my family, and those I’m in proximity to.

There is no revival without resistance. As we seek him, the enemy will take notice and seek to steal the inheritance God has for us, kill the seeds of revival, and destroy all that God intends. Let us lock shields in prayer once again and ask God to move in our city and the lives of those we love.  

Download the Following Wallpapers to Add to Your Phone to Remember to Pray throughout the Day!
10 C's Wallpaper
10 C's Wallpaper2

FASTING 101
 
BEFORE YOU FAST

1. Clarify what you are praying for as you fast. Consider writing these down and choosing things to pray, including topics that are personal, corporate, familial, or others related.
2. If this is your first time to fast, start slowly (fasting from one meal, fasting for one day, etc.) and move up to longer fasts over a period of time. 
3. Set the beginning and ending time. If it is an extended fast, be accountable to someone who can encourage you and support you.
4. Begin the fast with faith that fasting will lead your to draw close to Jesus and his plans and purposes.
5. Plan ahead - Look at your schedule and make it a part of your planning for the week (set specific prayer times throughout your day) 
6. You may experience some physical discomforts (headache, nausea, backpain, etc.). Decide ahead of time that you will let these times lead you to desperation for God. Walk by faith and not by feelings. Focus on the face that you are obeying God. 
7. Always drink lots of water and/or 100% juice (if you are including juice in your fast) 
8. On longer fasts, you may need to rest more than normal. It is normal to be tired or feel emotional when your body is weak. 
9. Break the fast with healthy food - soup, broth, bread, fruit, etc. Avoid greasy food, lots of meat, or heavy carbs. 
10. If you have a medical condition (hypoglycemia, pregnant, etc.) or are taking medication, please consult your physician if you have any questions about fasting. In this case you may consider a different kind of fast (i.e. a Daniel fast or fasting from another item you rely on each day).

DAILY PRAYER AND FASTING PLAN

MORNING

• Begin the day with worship and praise, place yourself in a posture of worship (on your knees, standing, etc.).  
• Open your hands and surrender your day and your life to God. 
• Clarify and write down what you believe for as you fast today. 
• Drink water until you start to feel full, then drink some juice (if drinking juice is a part of your fasting plan).

OTHER MEAL TIMES

• Set aside specific times for the Word and prayer. Don’t just starve. 
• Sample prayer time (30 minutes): 
  • LOOK UP: worship and thanksgiving (5-10 minutes) 
  • LOOK IN: Word of God, confession, prayer, listening (15 minutes) 
  • LOOK OUT: Intercession for others (5-10 minutes) 
• Keep a journal of what you hear God saying throughout the fast. 
• Pray with someone for at least one prayer time.
• Drink 8-16 oz. of 100% juice or vegetable drink.

THROUGHOUT THE DAY

• Play worship music throughout the day to “feed” your spirit. 
• Abstain from any media unless absolutely necessary. 
• Drink lots of water throughout the day. 
• Develop a prayer declaration to say when your stomach growls. For example, “I do not live by bread alone, but by the Word of God”. 
• Pray in the Spirit to yourself often. 

BREAKING THE FAST

• Give thanks to God before you eat for what He has done. 
• Take it slow! Don’t gorge or eat fatty foods. 
• Break your fast with raw fruit, salad, or other vegetables. 
• Continue to drink lots of water and 100% juice. 

In a culture that values independence and strength, fasting may feel unnatural or unnecessary. Yet, God designed it as a pathway to deeper intimacy with Him and a key to spiritual breakthrough.

WHY DO WE FAST?

Many people believe we fast to earn God’s attention or love, but the truth is, we already have both! Fasting isn’t for God—it’s for us. It humbles us, deepens our dependence on Him, and shifts our focus from ourselves to His presence. In Matthew 9:14-17, Jesus spoke of fasting when the disciples of John asked Jesus, “Why do your disciples not fast like us and the Pharisees?” Jesus responds with three metaphors, a wedding, a patch of cloth, and a wineskin. At the surface level, it may seem these are three unrelated images that Jesus provokes them to think about. However, they each share the common truth that the present state of each is destined to shift to a new state, requiring preparation. Fasting prepares our hearts for our next season in Christ.

As long as we have the bridegroom with us, we do not fast, we celebrate! The act of fasting is a biblical practice of mourning. There is a deep longing that surpasses our desires so much that we would rather not eat, but seek to be restored and refreshed. This longing is what Jesus speaks of when he says the bridegroom will leave and then they will fast. When we fast, we are partnering with the inner cry spoken of in Revelation 22:20, “Maranatha! Come Lord, Jesus!”

“No one sews an un-shrunk patch on an old garment, for if they do, the patch will shrink and the tear will be made worse. In the same way, no one pours new wine in an old wineskin. If they do, the skins will burst and  both the new wine and the wineskin will be lost. You put new wine in a new wineskin.” Matthew 9:16-17 (paraphrased)

These final two metaphors resemble two common occurrences of ancient Israel life. Patching a piece of clothing and creating a new wine.

When Jesus, speaks of these scenarios, the hearers would have understood the processes necessary to preserve their product; the old and the new are not compatible. If you want new wine or lasting material, you must work through a process to achieve an output that will stand the test of time. Jesus’ answer provides them with a context to understand that the new thing. Not unlike the metaphor of the old and the new, fasting is similar to the process of preparing the wineskin and the patch. It is the process of producing the container to hold what God wants to do in our lives. Without this process, we risk settling for less than the best that God wants to give us because we have not properly prepared.

Here are some ways to experience personal transformation through fasting:

• Let God lead your fast. He may prompt you to drink only water or juice, skip one meal a day, or even step away from social media. The goal isn’t to follow a formula but to create space for Him to speak and for you to rely on Him.
• Prioritize worship and prayer. Instead of filling your schedule with more tasks, set aside intentional time to seek God. We invite you to join us for corporate prayer times in the Prayer Center.
• Turn hunger into awareness. Each time you feel hunger, let it remind you of God’s presence. Ask Him how He is moving and how you can partner with Him.
• Meditate on Scripture. Let God’s Word renew your mind and refresh your spirit throughout the day.

Fasting isn’t just about what you give up—it’s about what you gain in God’s presence.

FASTING FOR BREAKTHROUGH

Fasting is a powerful key for breakthrough in the lives of others. As we grow in dependence on God, our prayers become more frequent and filled with greater faith.

Here are some ways to partner with God in fasting for breakthrough:

• Ask God who to pray for. Seek His guidance on specific family members, friends, or situations where you can believe for breakthrough. Enter your fast with a few people or needs on your heart.
• Pray with intention. Throughout the day, lift up those people and situations to God. Ask Him to give you His heart and perspective as you intercede.
• Journal what God reveals. Write down anything He speaks to you about the people or situations you’re praying for. Watch as He moves in response to your prayers! Scripture reminds us that when we ask, He hears us and is faithful to answer (1 John 5:14).

When we engage in corporate fasting, we unite in seeking God together. We believe He has given our church a special grace to be a source of life as we respond to His call and re-dig ancient wells. These ‘ancient wells’ are the redemptive plans and purposes that God originally planned and will fulfill for every person, family, city, nation and church! Join us as we pursue revival and breakthrough—not just in our personal lives, but in the lives of those around us and across the world.

Check out our post on “Fasting Well - Practicals for Fasting” if you want to learn more about fasting.

At Antioch Raleigh, we desire to be a community that doesn't just talk about prayer but actively engages in it. One helpful tool we've discovered is the PRAYER acrostic. This simple guide breaks prayer into six steps, making it easier to connect with God and grow in faith.

Here's how to use it in your daily life.

P - Pause
Begin your prayer time by pausing. Take a moment to be still and acknowledge God's presence.

Psalm 46:10 reminds us: "Be still and know that I am God." Pausing shifts your focus from tasks to your relationship with Him."

Tips:

• Sit Comfortably: Find a relaxed posture that helps you focus.
• Choose a Quiet Space: Avoid distractions by praying in a peaceful place.
• Relax Your Mind: Don't force stillness-gently let your thoughts settle.

• Open Hands: Hold your hands out as if receiving a gift.
• Expect Goodness: Trust that God wants to bless you.
• Reflect on Truths: Focus on His love, kindness, and grace.

• Use Your Posture: Stand or place a hand over your heart as a sign of honor.
• Speak Praise: Say things like, "God, You are so faithful and good."
• Practice Regularly: If verbal adoration feels unfamiliar, it will become more natural over time.

• Show Submission: Kneel or raise your hands in surrender.
• Be Specific: Name the things you're surrendering, such as relationships or schedules.
• Confess and Let Go: Bring your struggles to God and ask for His guidance.

• Align with God: Submit to Him before resisting.
• Use Scripture: Speak Bible verses that counteract struggles. For example, if fear is present, declare 2 Timothy 1:7: "God has not given me a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind."
• Pray Boldly: Trust in God's power as you confront challenges.

• Be Clear: Tell God exactly what you need. 
• Trust His Timing: Have patience and faith in His wisdom. 
• Pray for Others: Include your family, friends, and community in your prayer.

Leading a prayer gathering using the T.W.I. (Thanksgiving, Worship, Intercession) model involves creating space for the Holy Spirit to guide the session. Here’s a concise guide to help you facilitate a TWI prayer meeting.

Preparation:

• Co-Leadership: Partner with someone to share leadership responsibilities, dividing roles such as worship and intercession.
• Seek Guidance: Spend time in prayer to discern God’s focus for the session, whether it’s a specific community need, nation, or group.
• Heart Readiness: Arrive early to pray and center yourself, ensuring you’re spiritually prepared to lead.

Session Structure:

1. Introduction (~3 minutes):

• Set the Vision: Clearly state the purpose of the gathering.
• Encourage Participation: Emphasize the interactive nature of prayer, inviting everyone to participate.
• Invite the Holy Spirit: Begin with a prayer, welcoming the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

2.  Thanksgiving (~10 minutes):

• Scripture Reading: Start with a verse like Psalm 100:4 to inspire gratitude.
• Express Gratitude: Encourage participants to offer short prayers of thanks for various blessings.
• Focus on God’s Attributes: Highlight specific characteristics of God, possibly leading into the worship segment.

3.  Worship (~20 minutes):

• Highlight God’s Character: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal an aspect of God’s nature to focus on.
• Engage in Worship: Spend time declaring God’s greatness through prayers, songs, and scripture readings centered on the revealed attribute.

4. Intercession (~30 minutes):

• Connect Revelation to Prayer: Use insights from the worship time to inform intercessory prayers.
• Specific Prayer Points: Guide the group to pray for particular areas or needs related to the session’s focus.
• Closing: Conclude with a prayer of thanks and inform participants about future gatherings.

Additional Tips:

• Maintain Engagement: Vary prayer formats, such as individual reflection, small group discussions, and collective prayer.
• Optimize the Environment: Arrange the space to foster intimacy and participation, considering factors like seating and room size.
• Adapt for Group Size: For larger groups, consider breaking into smaller units to ensure everyone can participate.
• Smile and have fun!

By following this structure, you can create a dynamic and Spirit-led prayer gathering that encourages active participation and inspires people to grow in prayer.