In this second message of the Call on Me series, Dr. Michael Youssef urgently reminds believers that effectual prayer must begin with thanksgiving. Drawing from Scripture and Israel’s history, he warns against spiritual amnesia—a deadly forgetfulness of God’s past faithfulness that leads to ingratitude and ineffective prayer. As seen in Joshua’s memorial stones and the leper who returned to thank Jesus (Luke 17), God blesses those who remember and honor Him. Dr. Youssef calls the Church to reject a self-centered, demand-driven view of prayer and instead approach God with a heart full of praise. Those who testify of God’s past provision are equipped to intercede with boldness for the next generation.

In this opening message of the Call on Me series, Dr. Michael Youssef proclaims that true hope comes only through persistent, intimate prayer to the Living God. Drawing from Romans 12:12, he warns against the shallow view of prayer as a means to manipulate God and instead calls believers to a life of ongoing surrender. In a world spiraling into despair, Christians must reject bitterness and stand firm in the hope of Christ. Hope is not positive thinking—it is rooted in knowing who you are in Christ and whose you are. When we persist in prayer, we open the door to joy, strength, and unwavering hope, even in the darkest hour.

In this eight-part companion series to his book Never Give Up, Dr. Dr. Michael Youssef encourages us to embody Paul’s unwavering confidence in the Gospel. Digging deep into the apostle’s letter known as 2 Timothy, Dr. Youssef exhorts believers everywhere to do all we can to remain true to Christ.