Tag: Prayer

Why Only God Deserves Our Prayers: Understanding the Role of Jesus as Our Sole Mediator

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“Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John the brother of James, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. And His appearance changed dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His clothing became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus. Then Peter began to speak and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good and delightful and auspicious that we are here; if You wish, I will put up three [sacred] tents here—one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased and delighted! Listen to Him!” When the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were terrified.” ~ Matthew 17:1-6. This was Jesus’s transfiguration and His three closest disciples got a preview of His resplendent glory. In this passage Peter had missed the point, and God intended to clear up all confusion. The disciples needed to understand the superiority of Jesus Christ as the Son of God, far above Moses and Elijah. The presence of Moses and Elijah (who respectively represent the Law and the Prophets) was to signal the arrival of their long-awaited Messiah and the ushering in of the last days…

Prayer is one of the most personal and powerful ways we connect with God. It is a gift from Him, allowing us to share our hearts, seek His guidance, and trust in His provision. However, misunderstandings about prayer can lead people to rely on practices that are not supported by Scripture. One common misconception is the idea of praying to saints or asking them to intercede on our behalf. To fully honor God and experience the true purpose of prayer, it’s essential to understand what the Bible teaches about who hears our prayers and how we should approach God.

Only God is everywhere at all times (omnipresent) and capable of hearing every prayer. The men and women who have passed away, even those considered saints, are not omnipresent. They do not have God’s divine power, so they cannot hear your prayers. To pray to them is like speaking to someone who is not present—it simply doesn’t work. When you pray to saints or ask them to intercede for you, you are misunderstanding God’s design for prayer and His role as the one true God.

The Bible is very clear that Jesus Christ is the only one who can intercede between us and God. In 1 Timothy 2:5, it says, “There is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.” This means there is no need for anyone else—no saint, no angel, no human being—to go to God on your behalf. Jesus is enough. His sacrifice on the cross made it possible for you to come directly to God in prayer. When you pray to anyone other than God, even with good intentions, you are stepping outside of what God has asked us to do.

Some people believe that saints can act as intercessors, meaning they think saints can pray to God for them or deliver their prayers to Him. But this idea has no foundation in Scripture. Nowhere does the Bible teach that those who have passed away are given the ability to hear prayers or communicate with the living. In fact, Isaiah 8:19 warns against trying to contact the dead, saying, “Should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?” This shows us that our focus should always be on God, not on those who have died.

Furthermore, giving saints the role of intercessors diminishes the role of Jesus Christ. When Jesus died on the cross, He tore down the barrier between humanity and God. Hebrews 4:16 tells us, “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” This means you don’t need anyone else to “carry” your prayers to God. You can go directly to Him because of what Jesus did for you.

Praying to saints also risks turning them into idols, which is something God strictly forbids. Exodus 20:3-4 says, “You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.” When people put their trust in saints to intercede or answer prayers, they are giving them a role that belongs to God alone.

God loves you and made prayer simple. You don’t need special rituals, objects, or intermediaries—just an honest heart and faith in Jesus Christ. If you’re carrying a burden or need help, go straight to God. Pray in Jesus’ name, because He is the only one who hears every word, understands your heart, and has the power to help you. By praying directly to God, you honor Him, strengthen your relationship with Him, and experience the peace and joy of knowing He is always listening.

Conclusion

In the end, prayer is not about complicated rituals or relying on others to reach God for us—it’s about a direct relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. When we trust in the sufficiency of Jesus as our sole mediator, we honor God’s design and experience the peace of knowing that He hears us personally. Praying to anyone other than God does not bring us closer to Him; it only diminishes the role of Jesus and takes away from the simplicity and beauty of prayer. Let us remain faithful to God’s Word, pray in the name of Jesus, and rest in the assurance that He alone is our loving, listening, and ever-present God.

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**Photo by Tara Winstead at Pexels / Foreword by Got Questions

Are Some Prayers Hindering Your Spiritual Growth?

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Prayer is one of the most profound ways to connect with God. It’s a means of expressing our hearts, seeking guidance, and aligning ourselves with His will. However, the intention and posture of our hearts in prayer can significantly impact our spiritual growth. Could certain prayers hinder this growth rather than nurture it? Let’s explore this idea through biblical wisdom.

Prayers Misaligned with God’s Will

The Bible encourages us to pray in alignment with God’s will, as stated in 1 John 5:14:

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.”

When our prayers stem from selfish desires, doubt, or unrepentant hearts, they can create barriers in our spiritual journey. Here are some examples:

1. Prayers Rooted in Selfishness

James 4:3 warns us about selfish prayers:

“When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”

These prayers focus on fulfilling personal desires rather than seeking God’s purposes.

2. Prayers of Doubt

Faith is foundational to prayer. James 1:6-7 reminds us:

“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.”

Praying with skepticism about God’s ability to answer can hinder the connection He desires to have with us.

3. Prayers Without Repentance

Psalm 66:18 points to the importance of a repentant heart:

“If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.”

Unaddressed sin in our lives can block the intimacy that prayer is meant to foster.

A Model for Meaningful Prayer

Instead of focusing on prayers to avoid, it’s more beneficial to emphasize prayers that nurture spiritual growth. Jesus provides a perfect example in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). This prayer highlights several key elements:

• Honouring God – “Hallowed be Your name.”

• Submitting to His Will – “Your kingdom come, Your will be done.”

• Seeking Daily Provision – “Give us today our daily bread.”

• Asking for Forgiveness – “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.”

Reflecting on the Heart of Prayer

Rather than avoiding specific prayers, it’s crucial to reflect on our motives and attitudes. Ask yourself:

• Am I seeking God’s will or my own?

• Am I praying in faith and humility, or out of fear, doubt, or pride?

When we approach prayer with an open heart, genuine faith, and a desire to align with God’s purposes, we allow Him to shape our hearts and deepen our relationship with Him.

Inviting the Holy Spirit

A powerful way to enrich your prayer life is to invite the Holy Spirit to guide you. Romans 8:26 assures us:

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”

Even when words fail, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf, helping us connect with God in ways beyond our understanding.

Conclusion

Prayer is not about perfection; it’s about connection. By examining our hearts and aligning our prayers with God’s will, we can nurture a meaningful relationship with Him. Let us approach Him with faith, humility, and an openness to His guidance.

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*** Photo at Pexels

The Counterfeits of the Holy Spirit

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“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” – Acts 1:8

In the realm of spirituality, the Holy Spirit is central to the Christian faith. Jesus promised His followers that the Holy Spirit would come to empower, guide, and comfort them. However, alongside this divine presence, various counterfeits emerge, often masquerading as spiritual guides. This article explores these counterfeits through the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of discerning the authentic work of the Holy Spirit, and provides guidance on how to receive the Holy Spirit.

Understanding the Holy Spirit

Before diving into the counterfeits, it’s essential to grasp the significance of the Holy Spirit in the words of Jesus. In John 14:16-17, Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.”

Jesus’ promise indicates that the Holy Spirit is not just a passive force but an active presence in the lives of believers. He provides:

• Power: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

• Wisdom: In John 16:13, He reassures us, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.”

• Comfort: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18).

• Guidance: “The Spirit will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” (John 14:26).

The Third Person of the Trinity

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Holy Trinity, which consists of God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This divine relationship emphasizes the unique roles each person plays in the believer’s life. While the Father is the Creator and the Son is the Redeemer, the Holy Spirit is our Helper, Comforter, and Guide, actively working in the hearts of believers to bring about transformation, empowerment, and intimacy with God.

The Nature of Counterfeits

Counterfeits of the Holy Spirit can take many forms, appearing attractive and persuasive. They can lead individuals away from genuine experiences of God’s Spirit. Jesus warned about these deceptions in Matthew 7:15: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” Here are some common types of counterfeits:

1. Self-Exalted Leaders

Some individuals position themselves as spiritual authorities, demanding devotion and submission. Jesus cautioned against such leaders in Matthew 23:1-3: “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.’” Authentic spiritual leaders will always direct individuals to Christ rather than seeking power for themselves.

2. Philosophical and New Age Teachings

Many have turned to philosophies and New Age teachings that blur the lines between spirituality and self-help. Jesus emphasized the importance of truth in John 8:32: “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” True empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, not through self-derived philosophies.

3. Oracles and Mediums

Throughout history, people claiming to have insights into the spiritual realm have attracted followers. Jesus warned against seeking guidance from such sources. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, it is written, “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead.”

4. Emotional Manipulation

Some religious gatherings may rely on emotional manipulation, creating an atmosphere that seeks to provoke spiritual experiences without the genuine work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus emphasized the importance of true worship in John 4:24: “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” Genuine encounters with the Holy Spirit produce lasting transformation.

How to Receive the Holy Spirit:

Receiving the Holy Spirit is a vital step for every believer. Jesus invites all who seek Him to experience this life-changing gift. Here’s how you can receive the Holy Spirit according to the teachings of Jesus and the Scriptures:

1. Be Saved: A Born-Again Christian

The first step to receiving the Holy Spirit is to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. In John 3:5, Jesus states, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Being saved means acknowledging your need for Jesus, repenting of your sins, and accepting His grace and putting your faith in Him.

2. Ask with Faith

In Luke 11:13, Jesus assures us, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” This verse emphasizes that receiving the Holy Spirit involves asking God in faith, believing that He desires to give you this gift.

3. Pray for the Holy Spirit

Here is a heartfelt prayer you can pray to God from your heart to receive the Holy Spirit:

Prayer

Gracious Father, I come before You in the name of Jesus. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for loving me so deeply. Today, I humbly ask for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, You are welcome in my heart. Fill me with Your power and presence, From the crown of my head to the soles of my feet. I open my heart to receive all that You have for me. Transform my life and lead me in Your ways. In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray, amen.

4. Receive by Faith

After praying, it’s important to receive the Holy Spirit by faith, trusting that God has heard your prayer. In Acts 2:38-39, Peter proclaimed, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself.”

5. Live in the Spirit

Once you have received the Holy Spirit, embrace your new life. Galatians 5:16 encourages us: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Living in the Spirit involves daily reliance on God, prayer, and obedience to His word.

Recognizing the Authentic Spirit

To discern the genuine work of the Holy Spirit, believers must develop a close relationship with God through prayer, scripture, and community. Here are some ways to ensure one is attuned to the authentic voice of the Holy Spirit:

1. Scriptural Alignment

The Holy Spirit will never contradict the teachings of Scripture. Jesus affirmed this in Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Engaging regularly with the Bible helps believers understand God’s character and will.

2. Fruits of the Spirit

Evaluate spiritual experiences based on the fruits they produce. In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus teaches, “You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? … Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.” True encounters with the Holy Spirit lead to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

3. Community Confirmation

Engaging with a community of believers provides support and confirmation. Jesus emphasized the importance of community in Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Spiritual experiences are often affirmed within a church body.

4. Prayer for Discernment

Believers should actively seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in their lives, asking for discernment to recognize true spiritual authority and protect themselves from counterfeits. In James 1:5, we are assured, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

Conclusion

In a world filled with spiritual counterfeits, the call to recognize and embrace the authentic work of the Holy Spirit is more critical than ever. Jesus reassures us in John 10:10: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” By grounding ourselves in Scripture, nurturing our relationship with God, and fostering community, we can confidently navigate the spiritual landscape and receive the transformative power the Holy Spirit offers. Remember, the Holy Spirit is the key to living that abundant life in truth and power, guiding us away from the deceivers and into a deeper relationship with God.

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Photo by Vittorio Staffaloni in Pexels

A Mass Prayer for Nations, Leaders, and Peace

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 “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” ~ 2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV

As believers, we are called to intercede for our leaders, nations, and for peace, especially in Jerusalem. In times of uncertainty and need, communal prayer is a powerful way to ask God to bring change, guidance, and healing. Below is a structured prayer for anyone who wishes to lift up these petitions over a community, a nation, or even the entire world.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with humble hearts, united as Your people. You are the Almighty God, Creator of Heaven and Earth, and we honor You, acknowledging Your sovereign power over all nations. We gather in Your holy presence, seeking Your guidance, love, and protection over all people and lands.

Lord, we worship You

For You are good, and Your mercy endures forever. You are the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, worthy of all honor and glory. We lift Your name high above all the earth, praising You for Your greatness, Your compassion, and Your mighty works.

Thank You, Lord,

For the blessings You have poured out upon us and our nations. You have sustained us through every season, and Your provision and protection have been unwavering. We are grateful for Your faithfulness, for hearing our prayers, and for Your unending love that guides us.

Forgive us, Lord,

For any ways we have strayed from Your will. We confess any sins of our nations, communities, and ourselves. We ask for Your cleansing, renewing us and bringing us back into alignment with Your ways. As we turn to You, we seek Your mercy and forgiveness, knowing that You are a gracious and compassionate God.

Father, we intercede for the leaders of every nation,

Grant them wisdom, courage, and integrity as they make decisions that impact millions. May they lead with righteousness, justice, and compassion, promoting peace and unity. Let Your justice prevail in all nations, and let truth and fairness guide every action and law.

We pray for peace among all people, especially in Jerusalem.

You have asked us to pray for its peace, and we humbly lift this city and its people to You. Bring harmony and understanding to regions marked by conflict, and heal the divisions that have separated us. Surround every nation with Your protection, Lord, shielding the innocent and vulnerable from harm.

Lord, we ask for a spiritual awakening across the world.

Pour out Your Spirit on every land and community, that hearts may turn toward You. Bring about a revival in faith, hope, and love, so that we may see Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

As Your Word declares,

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). We stand on this promise, believing that as we humble ourselves, You will hear and bring healing and restoration.

Lord, we also pray for specific needs among the nations:

For those suffering from poverty and hunger, may You provide. For those impacted by natural disasters, may You bring comfort and relief. For the sick, may You bring healing, and for those who mourn, may You bring peace.

We trust in You, Lord,

Believing that You can do exceedingly and abundantly more than we ask or imagine. We thank You for hearing our prayers and for the answers that are already on the way. May Your will be done, Lord, and may Your name be glorified in all nations.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen 🙏

May this prayer bring unity and strength, inviting God’s presence, protection, and guidance over all people and nations.

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** Photo by Hugo Magalhaes at Pexels

How to Put on the Whole Armor of God Daily

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The “Armor of God” is a powerful metaphor that helps us Christians prepare for spiritual battles. Found in Ephesians 6:10-18, the apostle Paul describes this armor as a vital tool to withstand evil forces in our lives. This passage reminds us that our struggle is not merely against human opposition but against the unseen spiritual powers of darkness. In this article, we’ll break down each piece of the armor and explain how you can apply them in your daily life.

1. The Belt of Truth

“Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist.” (Eph 6:14)

The belt was essential for Roman soldiers because it held their armor together. In the same way, truth is foundational for Christians. To put on the belt of truth, we must live in honesty, integrity, and align ourselves with God’s truth found in Scripture. It means rejecting lies and deception, both from the world and from the enemy.

Application: Daily, remind yourself of God’s truth, whether it’s reading Scripture, speaking the truth to others, or being truthful in your actions. Know that standing firm in truth keeps your spiritual life intact.

Prayer: “Lord, wrap me in Your truth and help me to discern and speak the truth in every situation. Let Your truth be the foundation of my life, guiding me in all my decisions, in Jesus’s name I pray.”

2. The Breastplate of Righteousness

”…with the breastplate of righteousness in place.” (Eph 6:14)

The breastplate protects the heart and other vital organs. Righteousness—right standing with God through faith in Christ—guards our hearts from attacks like guilt and condemnation. It’s important to understand that this righteousness is not our own but is given to us through Christ.

Application: Live righteously by following God’s commands and trusting in His forgiveness. When you are attacked by guilt or shame, remember that your righteousness comes from Christ, not from your performance.

Prayer: “Heavenly Father, protect my heart with the breastplate of righteousness. Let my life reflect Your righteousness, and guard me from any attacks that seek to lead me into sin or despair, in Jesus’s name I pray.”

3. The Shoes of the Gospel of Peace

”…with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.” (Eph 6:15)

Roman soldiers wore sturdy shoes to keep their footing in battle. As Christians, the gospel gives us peace and readiness to face trials. The good news of Christ’s work on the cross enables us to stand firm in difficult situations and to share that peace with others.

Application: Reflect on the peace you have with God through Christ. Share this peace with those around you, knowing that it keeps you steady even when the world feels chaotic.

Prayer: “Lord, equip me with the shoes of the gospel of peace. Help me to walk in Your peace wherever I go, and use me to spread Your good news to those in need of Your saving grace, in Jesus’s name I pray.”

4. The Shield of Faith

“In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.” (Eph 6:16)

The shield is vital for deflecting attacks. Faith in God is our shield—it blocks and extinguishes the “flaming arrows” of doubt, fear, and temptation that the enemy launches at us. A strong faith will help us trust in God’s promises when life’s circumstances feel overwhelming.

Application: Strengthen your faith daily by trusting God’s promises. When you feel attacked by negative thoughts or fears, use Scripture and prayer to remind yourself of God’s faithfulness.

Prayer: “Father, strengthen my faith so that I can extinguish every fiery dart the enemy sends my way. Help me to trust in You completely, knowing that my faith in You is my greatest defence, in Jesus’s name I pray.”

5. The Helmet of Salvation

“Take the helmet of salvation…” (Eph 6:17)

The helmet protects the head, the center of our thoughts. Salvation through Jesus Christ guards our minds against doubt, confusion, and discouragement. Our assurance of salvation gives us confidence and hope in difficult times.

Application: Keep your thoughts focused on the assurance of your salvation. When your mind is filled with worries or negative thoughts, replace them with the truth of your eternal security in Christ.

Prayer: “Lord, protect my mind with the helmet of salvation. Keep my thoughts focused on You and remind me of the assurance of my salvation in Christ Jesus. Let Your saving grace guide my mind and decisions, in Jesus’s name I pray.”

6. The Sword of the Spirit

”…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” (Eph 6:17)

The sword is the only offensive weapon mentioned in the armor of God. It represents the Word of God—Scripture—which is alive and powerful. Just as Jesus used Scripture to combat Satan’s temptations, we must rely on the Word of God in our battles.

Application: Memorize and meditate on Scripture regularly. When you face temptation, confusion, or spiritual attacks, use the truth of God’s Word to stand against the enemy.

Prayer: “Father, I take up the sword of the Spirit, which is Your Word. Teach me to wield it with wisdom and power against the enemy’s lies and attacks. Let Your Word be alive and active in my life, in Jesus’s name I pray.”

7. Prayer in the Spirit

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.” (Eph 6:18)

Prayer is not a piece of armor, but it is essential in spiritual warfare. By praying in the Spirit, we invite God’s strength and guidance into every situation we face. Continuous, Spirit-led prayer ensures that we stay connected to God and vigilant against the enemy’s schemes.

Application: Cultivate a habit of prayer throughout your day. Whether you’re thanking God, asking for guidance, or praying for others, keep communication with God open and ongoing.

Conclusion

To “put on the whole armor of God” is to intentionally live out our faith every day. This armor equips us for the spiritual battles we face and helps us stand firm in the face of opposition. Each piece of the armor—truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer—is a powerful tool in God’s hands. By putting on this armor daily, we stand strong in His power and resist the attacks of the enemy.

May we always be vigilant, prepared, and clothed in God’s armor as we walk through life in His strength.

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*** Prayers by Vlad Savchuk / Photo by Timeline Photos