We are currently in a very important ten-day period on the Jewish calendar referred to as the “Ten Days of Awe/Repentance.” It is an introspective time for fasting and prayer to align our hearts with the Lord setting a foundation for the entire year (because it comes as the Jewish new year begins.) Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Ten Days of Awe, Yom Kippur and the Feast of Tabernacles, all fall in Sept/Oct. These are biblical feasts and holy days which Jesus and the disciples celebrated each year. They continue to be celebrated and honored today.
Even though we are not Jewish, Kevin & I have long believed that there is importance in recognizing the season’s of God’s calendar. This is no exception. For those who feel led, I invite you to join with us for a time of more intense prayer and fasting this week which culminates with Yom Kippur—the Day of Atonement (Sept 24 at sundown to Monday, Sept. 25 at sundown). The final festival in this interesting season is the Feast of Tabernacles – Sept 29-Oct. 7. It is a time to remember the Israelites DELIVERANCE from Egypt. Sounds like the perfect timing for us as we pray and thank God in advance for OUR deliverance from “Egypt.”
The fast during these ten days is when the people of God came/come to Him in repentance to avert judgment. What if we actually aligned as a nation with God’s call on this time and season?
May we join in recognizing these holy days not only for ourselves and our family, but for our city, state and nation. Let’s set aside additional time this week and through early next week to humble ourselves before the Lord during these “Days of Awe & Repentance” that we may see His glory and His plans and purposes sealed for this season.
For additional information on these festivals go to:
Significance of September—click here.
September: Our Prophetic Opportunity to Align with God’s Timetable—click here.
Rosh Hashanah—5784—by Kim Potter—click here
(Note: The Jewish new year 5784—has been called the “year of the open door” and “the year of the Davids.” It is interesting to note the numbers represent 5=grace, 7=perfection, 8=new beginnings and 4=open doors/foundation).
Father, we rejoice in You and we celebrate You as the Creator of the world and our Maker. We recognize and honor the new year and humble ourselves before You in repentance and awe of who You are and what You have done in the past to deliver Your people. We prepare our hearts for this coming season. May the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart be acceptable in Your sight Lord, our strength and our redeemer. We forgive and release all who have hurt or betrayed us and release all disappointment of any kind. We will not take it into this new year. We rejoice that You love us and declare that we will see the goodness of God in the land of the living.
We repent on behalf of our nation and the pride, perversion, corruption and apathy that has brought us to this place. We thank you for this opportunity to repent for ourselves, on behalf of our family, (your city & state) and America. For You said in repentance and rest we would be saved. Father we ask that the judgment our nation deserves to destruction would be averted as we cry out to You for revival. Yet we also know that there must be a shaking to bring people to repentance. We trust You Lord and pray that Your spirit would be poured out on all flesh and that the glory of the Lord would cover the earth as the waters cover the sea.
We align our hearts, our words and our actions with You. We pray that America would be turned back to You and back to our Constitution which honors You. Lord You see behind the scenes all that has taken place. You see those who have moved themselves into positions to take over this nation and their attempt to remove You and remove righteousness. You also see those who have stood for righteousness and truth. You see the Remnant who continues to cry out to You. Once more make a distinction between those who serve You and those who do not, between the righteous and the wicked.
We speak to the Ekklesia and say “Awake!” We speak to the warriors of righteousness and say, “Be refreshed. Plant your feet and do not be moved.” We speak over the pastors—to their hearts and minds, “Awake! Be refreshed. Be encouraged. Be a light and shepherd to your city! Stand for truth!” We speak over governmental leaders, “Take courage and stand for truth and righteousness. Repent for any misdeeds and bowing to the fear of man. Fear God or be removed from your position to make room for a leader who will.”
As we bow before You Lord during these 10 Days of Awe, we are in awe of You—all You have done and will do. Thank You for Your amazing plan of redemption and deliverance. Thank you for forgiveness. Thank you for Your mercy. But Father we also thank You for justice. We pray for the fear of the Lord to return to our land and drive out the fear of man. Even if the sun and the moon grow dark, we keep our eyes on You. We will not bow to intimidation or demands to remain quiet. The kings of the earth and the rulers have banded together against You Lord. They have conspired together to overthrow not only America and all other governments, but ultimately to overthrow You. Now Lord consider their threats and enable your servants to speak Your word with great boldness.
We pray that America would once again be a “city on a hill” that cannot be hidden. That as Your Ekkelesia we let our light so shine before men that they would see our good deeds and give You praise and glorify Your name.
Speak to our hearts O Lord as we turn our eyes to You. Guide and direct our steps. Lead us on Your path as we renew our hearts and dedication to You. May our praise be an offering and incense that brings You joy as we seek Your intervention, help and blessing in this year.
Is 30:15, James 4:10, Ps 19:14, Ps 27:13, Joel 2:28, Hab 2:14, Mal 3:18, Acts 4:26-29, Matt 5:14-16