Day 346 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey 16th Day of Advent - 12 December 2022 reflections
Day 346, 12 December 2022
1) 1 Timothy 3,4,5,6:1-10
1 Timothy 3
Qualifications of Overseers
1 (Ac 20:28; 1Ti 1:15; Ac 1:20) This is a faithful saying: If a man desires
the office of an overseer, he desires a good work.
2 (1Ti 5:9; 2Ti 2:24) An overseer then must be blameless, the husband
of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach;
3 (Titus 1:7; 1Ti 3:8; Lev 10:9) not given to drunkenness, not violent, not
greedy for money, but patient, not argumentative, not covetous;
4 (1Ti 3:12; Titus 1:6) and one who manages his own house well, having his
children in submission with all reverence.
5 (1Ti 3:15) For if a man does not know how to manage his own house, how will
he take care of the church of God?
6 (1Ti 6:4) He must not be newly converted, so that he does not become
prideful and fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 (2Ti 2:26; 1Ti 6:9) Moreover he must have a good reputation among those who
are outsiders, so that he does not fall into reproach and the snare of the
devil.
[1] This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he
desireth a good work.
[2] A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant,
sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
[3] Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient,
not a brawler, not covetous;
[4] One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection
with all gravity;
[5] (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care
of the church of God?)
[6] Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the
condemnation of the devil.
[7] Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he
fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Qualifications of Deacons
8 (Php 1:1; Titus 2:3; Lev 10:9) Likewise deacons must be serious,
not insincere, not given to much wine, not greedy,
9 (1Ti 1:19; 1:5) keeping the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
10 (1Ti 5:22) And let them first be tested; then, being found blameless,
let them serve as deacons.
11 (Titus 2:3; 2Ti 3:3; 1Ti 3:2) Likewise, their wives must be serious,
not slanderers, sober, and faithful in all things.
12 (1Ti 3:2) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife,
managing their children and their own houses well.
13 (Mt 25:21) For those who have served well in the office of deacon
purchase for themselves good standing and great boldness in the faith,
which is in Christ Jesus.
[8] Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much
wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
[9] Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
[10] And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a
deacon, being found blameless.
[11] Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in
all things.
[12] Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and
their own houses well.
[13] For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to
themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ
Jesus.
The Mystery of Our Religion
14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you shortly,
15 (Mt 16:16; 18:18) but if I am delayed, you might know how you ought
to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living
God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
16 (Jn 1:14; Heb 1:3; Mk 16:19) Without question, great is the mystery
of godliness:
God was revealed in the flesh,
justified in the Spirit,
seen by angels,
preached to the Gentiles,
believed on in the world,
taken up into glory.
[14] These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
[15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave
thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the
pillar and ground of the truth.
[16] And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached
unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
1 Timothy 4
Prediction of Apostasy
1 (Jn 16:13; 2Pe 3:3) Now the Spirit clearly says that in the last times
some will depart from the faith and pay attention to seducing spirits
and doctrines of devils,
2 (Eph 4:19) speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their consciences seared
with a hot iron,
3 (Ro 14:6; Heb 13:4) forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain
from foods, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving
by those who believe and know the truth.
4 (Ge 1:31; Ro 14:14) For everything created by God is good, and not to
be refused if it is received with thanksgiving,
5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall
depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of
devils;
[2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot
iron;
[3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God
hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know
the truth.
[4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be
received with thanksgiving:
[5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
A Good Minister of Christ Jesus
6 (1Ti 1:10) If you remind the brothers of these things, you will be a good
minister of Jesus Christ, nourished by the words of faith and of good
doctrine, which you have followed closely.
7 (1Ti 1:4; 2Ti 2:16; Heb 5:14) But refuse profane and foolish myths.
Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness.
8 (Mt 6:33; 1Ti 6:6) For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness
is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life
and also for the life to come.
9 (1Ti 1:15) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.
10 (1Ti 2:4; 3:15) For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach,
because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men,
especially of those who believe.
11 (1Ti 6:2; 5:7) Command and teach these things.
12 (2Ti 2:22; Titus 2:7) Let no one despise your youth, but be an example
to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith,
and in purity.
13 Until I come, give attention to reading, exhortation, and doctrine.
14 (2Ti 1:6; Ac 6:6; 1Ti 1:18) Do not neglect the gift that is in you,
which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of hands
by the elders.
15 Meditate on these things. Give yourself completely to them,
that your progress may be known to everyone.
16 (Titus 2:7; Ro 11:14) Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.
Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself
and those who hear you.
[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a
good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of
good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
[7] But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather
unto godliness.
[8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto
all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to
come.
[9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.
[10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in
the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that
believe.
[11] These things command and teach.
[12] Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers,
in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
[13] Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
[14] Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy,
with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
[15] Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy
profiting may appear to all.
[16] Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in
doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 Timothy 5
Duties Toward Others
1 (Lev 19:32; Titus 2:6) Do not rebuke an elder, but exhort him as a father,
the younger men as brothers,
2 the elder women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, with complete
purity.
3 (Ac 6:1; 9:39) Honor widows that are widows indeed.
4 (1Ti 2:3; Ge 45:10-11) But if any widow has children or grandchildren,
let them learn first to show piety at home and to repay their parents.
For this is good and acceptable before God.
5 (Lk 2:37; 1Ti 5:3) Now she who is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts
in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.
6 (Lk 15:24; Jas 5:5) But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.
7 (1Ti 4:11) And these things command, that they may be blameless.
8 (Titus 1:16; Gal 6:10) But if any do not care for their own,
and especially for those of their own house, they have denied the faith
and are worse than unbelievers.
9 (1Ti 3:2) Do not let a widow be counted unless she is over sixty years old,
has been the wife of one man,
10 (1Ti 6:18; Titus 3:8) is well attested in good works, if she has brought
up children, has lodged strangers, has washed the saints' feet, has relieved
the afflicted, and has diligently followed every good work.
11 (1Ti 5:14) But refuse the younger widows, for when their sensual desires
have drawn them away from Christ, they want to marry,
12 and bring judgment on themselves, because they have cast off their
first pledge.
13 (Pr 20:19; Titus 1:11) Besides that, they learn to be idle, and not only
idle, wandering around from house to house, but also gossips and busybodies,
saying what they ought not.
14 (Titus 2:5; 1Ti 6:1; 4:3) Therefore I desire that the younger women marry,
bear children, manage the house, and give no occasion to the adversary
to speak reproachfully.
15 For some have already turned aside after Satan.
16 (1Ti 5:3-5) If any believing man or woman has widows, let those assist
them. Do not let the church be charged, so that it may relieve those
who are widows indeed.
17 (Ro 12:8; Php 2:29) Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy
of double honour, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.
18 (Dt 25:4; Lev 19:13; Mt 10:10) For the Scripture says, "You shall not
muzzle the ox that treads out the grain,"(Dt 25:4.) and, "The laborer is
worthy of his reward."(Lk 10:7.)
19 (Dt 19:15; Mt 18:16) Do not receive an accusation against an elder,
except before two or three witnesses.
20 (Dt 13:11; 2Ti 4:2) Rebuke in the presence of everyone those who sin,
that the rest also may fear.
21 (1Ti 6:13; 2Ti 4:1) I command you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ
and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice,
doing nothing by partiality.
22 (Ac 6:6; Eph 5:11) Do not lay hands suddenly on anyone, and do not
partake of other men's sins. Keep yourself pure.
23 (1Ti 3:8; Ps 104:15) No longer drink only water, but use a little wine
for your stomach's sake and your frequent illnesses.
24 Some men's sins are evident, pointing to judgment,
but other men's sins are revealed later.
25 Likewise, the good works of some are evident,
but those that are not cannot be hidden.
[1] Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as
brethren;
[2] The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
[3] Honour widows that are widows indeed.
[4] But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew
piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable
before God.
[5] Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and
continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
[6] But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
[7] And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
[8] But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own
house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
[9] Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old,
having been the wife of one man,
[10] Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if
she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have
relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
[11] But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton
against Christ, they will marry;
[12] Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
[13] And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house;
and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which
they ought not.
[14] I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the
house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
[15] For some are already turned aside after Satan.
[16] If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them,
and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows
indeed.
[17] Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour,
especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
[18] For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out
the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
[19] Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three
witnesses.
[20] Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
[21] I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect
angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before
another, doing nothing by partiality.
[22] Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins:
keep thyself pure.
[23] Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and
thine often infirmities.
[24] Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some
men they follow after.
[25] Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they
that are otherwise cannot be hid.
1 Timothy 6
1 (Titus 2:5; Isa 52:5) Let as many servants as are under the yoke of slavery
count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His
doctrine may not be slandered.
2 (1Ti 4:11) Let those who have believing masters not despise them, because
they are brothers. Instead, let them serve as slaves, because those who
receive their service are faithful and beloved.
[1] Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters
worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not
blasphemed.
[2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because
they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and
beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
False Teaching and True Wealth
Teach and command these things.
3 (1Ti 1:3; 1:10) Anyone who teaches otherwise and does not consent
to wholesome words, to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to godly
doctrine
4 (1Ti 1:4; 3:6) is conceited and knows nothing. He has a morbid
disposition for controversy and verbal disputes, from which come envy,
strife, blasphemies, evil speculations,
5 (2Ti 3:8; Titus 1:11) constant disputes by men of corrupt minds, being
destitute of the truth, and supposing that financial gain is godliness.
Withdraw yourself from such men.
6 (1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:5) But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 (Job 1:21; Ps 49:17) For we brought nothing into this world,
and it is certain that we can carry nothing out.
8 (Ge 28:20) If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with
these things.
9 (Pr 15:27; 1Ti 3:7) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation
and a snare and into many foolish and harmful lusts, which drown men
in ruin and destruction.
10 (Dt 16:19) For the love of money is the root of all evil.
While coveting after money, some have strayed from the faith
and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
[3] If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the
words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to
godliness;
[4] He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of
words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
[5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth,
supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.
[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry
nothing out.
[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into
many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and
perdition.
[10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted
after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with
many sorrows.
2) Our Daily Bread for 12 December 2022
Entitled "Clinging to What's Good"
Psalms 43
1 Vindicate me, O God,
and plead my cause against an ungodly nation;
deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) For You are the God of my refuge;
why have You rejected me?
Why do I walk about mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Send out Your light and Your truth.
Let them lead me;
let them bring me to Your holy hill,
and to Your dwelling place.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Then I will go to the altar of God,
to the God of my joyful gladness;
with the harp I will give thanks to You,
O God, my God.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted withinme?
Hope in God;
for I will yet give Him thanks,
the salvation of my countenance and my God.
Psalm 43
[1] Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation:
O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.
[2] For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off?
Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?
[3] O send out thy light and thy truth: Let them lead me;
Let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.
[4] Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy:
Yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.
[5] Why art thou cast down, O my soul?
And why art thou disquieted within me?
Hope in God:
For I shall yet praise him, Who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
"I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," based on an 1863 poem by Henry Wadsworth
Longfellow, is a truly unusual Christmas song. Instead of the expected
Christmas joy and mirth, the lyric forms a lament, crying out, "And in despair
I bowed my head / There is no peace on earth I said / For hate is strong and
mocks the song / Of peace on earth, good will to men." This lament, however,
moves forward into hope, reassuring us that "God is not dead, nor does he
sleep / The wrong shall fail, the right prevail / With peace on earth
goodwill toward men."
The pattern of hope rising out of lament is also found in the lament psalms
of the Bible. As such, Psalm 43 begins with the psalmist crying out about his
enemies who attack him (v. 1) and his God who seems to have forgotten him
(v. 2). But the singer doesn't stay in lament-he looks up to the God he
doesn't fully understand but still trusts, singing, "Why, my soul, are you
downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet
praise him, my Savior and my God" (v. 5).
Life is filled with reasons for lament, and we all experience them on a
regular basis. But, if we allow that lament to point us to the God of hope,
we can sing joyfully-even if we sing through our tears.
By: Bill Crowder
Reflect & Pray
What concerns are you experiencing in this moment? From the testimony of
Scripture, how can God offer you hope in this season of life?
I cry to You, Father, as I struggle under
the burdens of life. Remind me that my help
comes from above, from the Maker of heaven and earth.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 2 - Growing Up
2 Tim 3:16-17
16 (Ro 15:4) All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable
for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction
in righteousness,
17 (1Ti 6:11; 2Ti 2:21) that the man of God may be complete,
thoroughly equipped for every good work.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable
for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction
in righteousness:
17 that the man of God may be perfect,
throughly furnished unto all good works.
"I can't wait till I get big!" Marc, age 5, declared. "Then I do
what I want!" Most of us, as children, shared Marc's statement.
We looked forward to that "magic age" - 16, 18, 21 - when we
would be adults: mature, able to make our own decisions.
We find, of course, that adulthood has its own share of
difficulties and conflicts. But even in our spiritual lives
we often long for a "magic moment" of maturity. As one woman
confessed, "Ever since I became a Christian, I've hoped I'd wake up
one morning to find myself mature."
But growth in the spiritual life comes gradually, like growth in
the physical world. In 2 Tim 2:16-17, Paul gives the young pastor
Timothy an important key to spiritual growing up - the Word of God.
The Word is "profitable" or "useful," Paul says, for "teaching" - that is,
for developing a right concept of God. Scripture offers "rebuke" when
we go wrong, "correction" to set us on the right path, and "training
in righteousness" so that we can grow in the image of Christ.
The purpose of Scripture's work in our lives, Paul emphasises,
is that we may be "perfect" - mature, equipped for the good things
God has for us to do. Such maturity does not come easily
or instantaneously, but it does come - sometimes imperceptibly -
as we submit our lives to the transforming power of God's Word.
Application
a) In what areas of my life do I need to grow? How can I benefit
from the Bible's
i) teaching?
ii) rebuke?
iii) correction?
iv) training in righteousness?
b) How can memorising God's Word help me grow in those areas?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Luke 6:38
38 "Give, and it will be given to you: Good measure, pressed down,
shaken together, and running over will men give unto you.
For with the measure you use, it will be measured unto you."
38 give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down,
and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For
with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Burdened by Doubt
Proverbs 30:5
5 Every word of God is pure;
He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.
5 Every word of God is pure:
He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Advent Day 16
C.S.Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck
"My brother and I took a day off last week, put sandwiches
in our pockets, and tramped sixteen miles... from Dorchester Abbey
to Oxford....You would be surprised if you could see the unspoilt
beauty and charm which can still be found I hope to send you
the autographed children's book by Christmas, but will probably
know more about its progress this afternoon,
as I am going out to lunch with my publisher." - C. S. Lewis
(From "Letter to Miss Vera Mathews," Sept. 20, 1950,
Lewis' Collected Letters, Ill, p. 54.)
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Advertisers will call their product "the perfect gift"
or "the gift for any occasion." Many people love books,
and books are among the favourite Christmas gifts to give or receive.
You can purchase a book on almost every imaginable subject. Books last.
Books can be read over and over again.
The book about which Lewis writes in this letter to Vera Mathews
is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. It was released by Geoffrey Bles
Publishers on October 16, 1950, in time for the Christmas season.
In fact, most of the original Chronicles of Narnia books
were released in time for Christmas.
Christians are a "people of the book." Our word "Bible" comes
from a Greek word meaning "book." And as Jesus was the Word made flesh,
to tell his story God arranged for the writing of a book of books,
so constructed that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ.
Lewis once wrote, tongue in cheek, that God was an unscrupulous author,
leaving traps, nets, and stratagems everywhere in his book to snare
its readers (Surprised by Joy, p. 191). Indeed! God "wants all men
to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim. 2:4).
Thank you, Lord, for books, especially the Book, with its
testimony to Jesus as the Christ. Amen.
These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.
John 20:31
Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn
MONDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Recipients
His mercy is on those who fear Him
from generation to generation.
-Luke 1:50
It was fitting yesterday on the Third Sunday of Advent
to begin this week focusing on God's righting of injustice in the
world since we are preparing for the coming of Jesus, who spent
his life, contrary to the religious leaders, ministering to the poor
and the ill, the humble and the outcast. Consequently,
today we accentuate again (see Wednesday, First Week of Advent)
that significant word fear.
We have seen that God towers above us all, that his prodigious
power could (if he chose) do away with every one of us,
that we are inconsequential to his purposes, that our efforts are meager
in his sight. It is appropriate that we always remember this and properly
fear, for then we never take it for granted that God loves us,
that his grace floods over us, that his mercy endures forever!
What elation overwhelms us then, for we are awed that the Glorious One
stoops to select us! What lavish gratitude inhabits our souls!
Prayer
Bounteous God, how can I ever thank you sufficiently for
choosing me to be yours? Amen.
Read Luke 1:45-55.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."
The Song of Mary
46 And Mary said:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
48 For He has regarded
the low estate of His servant;
surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.
49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His name.
50 His mercy is on those who fear Him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with His arm;
He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of low degree.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich He has sent away empty.
54 He has helped His servant Israel,
in remembrance of His mercy,
55 as He spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
The AH-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD MONDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ATTITUDE!
Blessed is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
whose hope is in the Lord his God, PSALM 146:5
Notice the strong, positive attitude of the psalmist. He is "praising the Lord
not because everything is going well, but because of what the Lord has
clone . . . for all of us!
Hows your attitude today? Or, do you have an attitude about
your attitude? A friend of mine likes to say. "In case of an accident
I'm not surprised!" Great attitude, eh? Years ago I received a coffee cup
as a gift from a so-called friend which read. "Life is hard and then you die.
A great way to start each morning. don't you thinks
The AH-HAs of Advent help us to grasp that the Lord has given us
everything to change our UH-OH attitudes into AH-HA affirmations.
No wonder the psalmist can proclaim that "happy are those whose help is
the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God." The joy of Advent
is that we proclaim tile exact same message.
And more good news: even when we do not have a very positive attitude--
when we are dull and tired and dragging--the Lord continues to love us,
to prop us up, and to show us the way from the AH-HAs of Advent, through
the UH-OHs of Good Friday, and on to the Greatest AH-HA of them all--
EASTER! Advent is not a "let's pretend" game of thinking that Easter
has not happened No way! Easter is the real thing, right now. today!
What an attitude!
Lord. thanks for setting people free---for lifting us up and opening our
blind eyes to see the needs and hopes of others. Keep giving us an
attitude of gratitude. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Psalm 146
Psalms 146
1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) While I live I will praise the Lord;
I will sing praises unto my God while I have my life.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Do not put your trust in princes,
nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) His breath leaves him, and he returns to the earth;
on that very day his plans perish.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Blessed is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
whose hope is in the Lord his God,
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) who made heaven, and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them,
who keeps faithfulness forever,
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) who executes justice for the oppressed,
who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord releases the prisoners.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) The Lord opens the eyes of the blind;
the Lord raises those who are brought down;
the Lord loves the righteous.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) The Lord preserves the sojourners;
He lifts up the fatherless and widow,
but on the way of the wicked He brings disaster.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) The Lord shall reign forever,
your God, O Zion, unto all generations.
Praise you the Lord!
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to conduct yourself as Jesus does.
Pray to the Lord: "I cry to You, Father, as I struggle under
the burdens of life. Remind me that my help
comes from above, from the Maker of heaven and earth."
Pray to the Lord and pray for His help to commit to knowing the word.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know His riches in Glory.
Pray to the Lord and His Word is pure!
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Thank you, Lord, for books, especially the Book, with its
testimony to Jesus as the Christ. Amen.
Pray: Bounteous God, how can I ever thank you sufficiently for
choosing me to be yours? Amen.
Pray: Lord. thanks for setting people free---for lifting us up and opening our
blind eyes to see the needs and hopes of others. Keep giving us an
attitude of gratitude. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray for the spiritual conviction of persecutors within the Communist Party
of Cuba who oppose the church.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) 1 Timothy 3,4,5,6:1-10
1 Timothy 3
Qualifications of Overseers
1 (Ac 20:28; 1Ti 1:15; Ac 1:20) This is a faithful saying: If a man desires
the office of an overseer, he desires a good work.
2 (1Ti 5:9; 2Ti 2:24) An overseer then must be blameless, the husband
of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach;
3 (Titus 1:7; 1Ti 3:8; Lev 10:9) not given to drunkenness, not violent, not
greedy for money, but patient, not argumentative, not covetous;
4 (1Ti 3:12; Titus 1:6) and one who manages his own house well, having his
children in submission with all reverence.
5 (1Ti 3:15) For if a man does not know how to manage his own house, how will
he take care of the church of God?
6 (1Ti 6:4) He must not be newly converted, so that he does not become
prideful and fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 (2Ti 2:26; 1Ti 6:9) Moreover he must have a good reputation among those who
are outsiders, so that he does not fall into reproach and the snare of the
devil.
[1] This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he
desireth a good work.
[2] A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant,
sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
[3] Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient,
not a brawler, not covetous;
[4] One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection
with all gravity;
[5] (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care
of the church of God?)
[6] Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the
condemnation of the devil.
[7] Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he
fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
Qualifications of Deacons
8 (Php 1:1; Titus 2:3; Lev 10:9) Likewise deacons must be serious,
not insincere, not given to much wine, not greedy,
9 (1Ti 1:19; 1:5) keeping the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
10 (1Ti 5:22) And let them first be tested; then, being found blameless,
let them serve as deacons.
11 (Titus 2:3; 2Ti 3:3; 1Ti 3:2) Likewise, their wives must be serious,
not slanderers, sober, and faithful in all things.
12 (1Ti 3:2) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife,
managing their children and their own houses well.
13 (Mt 25:21) For those who have served well in the office of deacon
purchase for themselves good standing and great boldness in the faith,
which is in Christ Jesus.
[8] Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much
wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;
[9] Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.
[10] And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a
deacon, being found blameless.
[11] Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in
all things.
[12] Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and
their own houses well.
[13] For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to
themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ
Jesus.
The Mystery of Our Religion
14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you shortly,
15 (Mt 16:16; 18:18) but if I am delayed, you might know how you ought
to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living
God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
16 (Jn 1:14; Heb 1:3; Mk 16:19) Without question, great is the mystery
of godliness:
God was revealed in the flesh,
justified in the Spirit,
seen by angels,
preached to the Gentiles,
believed on in the world,
taken up into glory.
[14] These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:
[15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave
thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the
pillar and ground of the truth.
[16] And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached
unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
1 Timothy 4
Prediction of Apostasy
1 (Jn 16:13; 2Pe 3:3) Now the Spirit clearly says that in the last times
some will depart from the faith and pay attention to seducing spirits
and doctrines of devils,
2 (Eph 4:19) speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their consciences seared
with a hot iron,
3 (Ro 14:6; Heb 13:4) forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain
from foods, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving
by those who believe and know the truth.
4 (Ge 1:31; Ro 14:14) For everything created by God is good, and not to
be refused if it is received with thanksgiving,
5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall
depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of
devils;
[2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot
iron;
[3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God
hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know
the truth.
[4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be
received with thanksgiving:
[5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
A Good Minister of Christ Jesus
6 (1Ti 1:10) If you remind the brothers of these things, you will be a good
minister of Jesus Christ, nourished by the words of faith and of good
doctrine, which you have followed closely.
7 (1Ti 1:4; 2Ti 2:16; Heb 5:14) But refuse profane and foolish myths.
Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness.
8 (Mt 6:33; 1Ti 6:6) For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness
is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life
and also for the life to come.
9 (1Ti 1:15) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.
10 (1Ti 2:4; 3:15) For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach,
because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men,
especially of those who believe.
11 (1Ti 6:2; 5:7) Command and teach these things.
12 (2Ti 2:22; Titus 2:7) Let no one despise your youth, but be an example
to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith,
and in purity.
13 Until I come, give attention to reading, exhortation, and doctrine.
14 (2Ti 1:6; Ac 6:6; 1Ti 1:18) Do not neglect the gift that is in you,
which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of hands
by the elders.
15 Meditate on these things. Give yourself completely to them,
that your progress may be known to everyone.
16 (Titus 2:7; Ro 11:14) Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.
Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself
and those who hear you.
[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a
good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of
good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
[7] But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather
unto godliness.
[8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto
all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to
come.
[9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.
[10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in
the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that
believe.
[11] These things command and teach.
[12] Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers,
in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
[13] Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.
[14] Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy,
with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
[15] Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy
profiting may appear to all.
[16] Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in
doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
1 Timothy 5
Duties Toward Others
1 (Lev 19:32; Titus 2:6) Do not rebuke an elder, but exhort him as a father,
the younger men as brothers,
2 the elder women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, with complete
purity.
3 (Ac 6:1; 9:39) Honor widows that are widows indeed.
4 (1Ti 2:3; Ge 45:10-11) But if any widow has children or grandchildren,
let them learn first to show piety at home and to repay their parents.
For this is good and acceptable before God.
5 (Lk 2:37; 1Ti 5:3) Now she who is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts
in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.
6 (Lk 15:24; Jas 5:5) But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.
7 (1Ti 4:11) And these things command, that they may be blameless.
8 (Titus 1:16; Gal 6:10) But if any do not care for their own,
and especially for those of their own house, they have denied the faith
and are worse than unbelievers.
9 (1Ti 3:2) Do not let a widow be counted unless she is over sixty years old,
has been the wife of one man,
10 (1Ti 6:18; Titus 3:8) is well attested in good works, if she has brought
up children, has lodged strangers, has washed the saints' feet, has relieved
the afflicted, and has diligently followed every good work.
11 (1Ti 5:14) But refuse the younger widows, for when their sensual desires
have drawn them away from Christ, they want to marry,
12 and bring judgment on themselves, because they have cast off their
first pledge.
13 (Pr 20:19; Titus 1:11) Besides that, they learn to be idle, and not only
idle, wandering around from house to house, but also gossips and busybodies,
saying what they ought not.
14 (Titus 2:5; 1Ti 6:1; 4:3) Therefore I desire that the younger women marry,
bear children, manage the house, and give no occasion to the adversary
to speak reproachfully.
15 For some have already turned aside after Satan.
16 (1Ti 5:3-5) If any believing man or woman has widows, let those assist
them. Do not let the church be charged, so that it may relieve those
who are widows indeed.
17 (Ro 12:8; Php 2:29) Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy
of double honour, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.
18 (Dt 25:4; Lev 19:13; Mt 10:10) For the Scripture says, "You shall not
muzzle the ox that treads out the grain,"(Dt 25:4.) and, "The laborer is
worthy of his reward."(Lk 10:7.)
19 (Dt 19:15; Mt 18:16) Do not receive an accusation against an elder,
except before two or three witnesses.
20 (Dt 13:11; 2Ti 4:2) Rebuke in the presence of everyone those who sin,
that the rest also may fear.
21 (1Ti 6:13; 2Ti 4:1) I command you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ
and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice,
doing nothing by partiality.
22 (Ac 6:6; Eph 5:11) Do not lay hands suddenly on anyone, and do not
partake of other men's sins. Keep yourself pure.
23 (1Ti 3:8; Ps 104:15) No longer drink only water, but use a little wine
for your stomach's sake and your frequent illnesses.
24 Some men's sins are evident, pointing to judgment,
but other men's sins are revealed later.
25 Likewise, the good works of some are evident,
but those that are not cannot be hidden.
[1] Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as
brethren;
[2] The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.
[3] Honour widows that are widows indeed.
[4] But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew
piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable
before God.
[5] Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and
continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
[6] But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
[7] And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
[8] But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own
house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
[9] Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old,
having been the wife of one man,
[10] Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if
she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have
relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
[11] But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton
against Christ, they will marry;
[12] Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
[13] And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house;
and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which
they ought not.
[14] I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the
house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
[15] For some are already turned aside after Satan.
[16] If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them,
and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows
indeed.
[17] Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour,
especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
[18] For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out
the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
[19] Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three
witnesses.
[20] Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
[21] I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect
angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before
another, doing nothing by partiality.
[22] Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins:
keep thyself pure.
[23] Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and
thine often infirmities.
[24] Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some
men they follow after.
[25] Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they
that are otherwise cannot be hid.
1 Timothy 6
1 (Titus 2:5; Isa 52:5) Let as many servants as are under the yoke of slavery
count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His
doctrine may not be slandered.
2 (1Ti 4:11) Let those who have believing masters not despise them, because
they are brothers. Instead, let them serve as slaves, because those who
receive their service are faithful and beloved.
[1] Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters
worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not
blasphemed.
[2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because
they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and
beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
False Teaching and True Wealth
Teach and command these things.
3 (1Ti 1:3; 1:10) Anyone who teaches otherwise and does not consent
to wholesome words, to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to godly
doctrine
4 (1Ti 1:4; 3:6) is conceited and knows nothing. He has a morbid
disposition for controversy and verbal disputes, from which come envy,
strife, blasphemies, evil speculations,
5 (2Ti 3:8; Titus 1:11) constant disputes by men of corrupt minds, being
destitute of the truth, and supposing that financial gain is godliness.
Withdraw yourself from such men.
6 (1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:5) But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 (Job 1:21; Ps 49:17) For we brought nothing into this world,
and it is certain that we can carry nothing out.
8 (Ge 28:20) If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with
these things.
9 (Pr 15:27; 1Ti 3:7) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation
and a snare and into many foolish and harmful lusts, which drown men
in ruin and destruction.
10 (Dt 16:19) For the love of money is the root of all evil.
While coveting after money, some have strayed from the faith
and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
[3] If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the
words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to
godliness;
[4] He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of
words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
[5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth,
supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.
[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry
nothing out.
[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into
many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and
perdition.
[10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted
after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with
many sorrows.
2) Our Daily Bread for 12 December 2022
Entitled "Clinging to What's Good"
Psalms 43
1 Vindicate me, O God,
and plead my cause against an ungodly nation;
deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) For You are the God of my refuge;
why have You rejected me?
Why do I walk about mourning
because of the oppression of the enemy?
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Send out Your light and Your truth.
Let them lead me;
let them bring me to Your holy hill,
and to Your dwelling place.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Then I will go to the altar of God,
to the God of my joyful gladness;
with the harp I will give thanks to You,
O God, my God.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Why are you cast down, O my soul?
And why are you disquieted withinme?
Hope in God;
for I will yet give Him thanks,
the salvation of my countenance and my God.
Psalm 43
[1] Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation:
O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.
[2] For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off?
Why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?
[3] O send out thy light and thy truth: Let them lead me;
Let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.
[4] Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy:
Yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.
[5] Why art thou cast down, O my soul?
And why art thou disquieted within me?
Hope in God:
For I shall yet praise him, Who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
"I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day," based on an 1863 poem by Henry Wadsworth
Longfellow, is a truly unusual Christmas song. Instead of the expected
Christmas joy and mirth, the lyric forms a lament, crying out, "And in despair
I bowed my head / There is no peace on earth I said / For hate is strong and
mocks the song / Of peace on earth, good will to men." This lament, however,
moves forward into hope, reassuring us that "God is not dead, nor does he
sleep / The wrong shall fail, the right prevail / With peace on earth
goodwill toward men."
The pattern of hope rising out of lament is also found in the lament psalms
of the Bible. As such, Psalm 43 begins with the psalmist crying out about his
enemies who attack him (v. 1) and his God who seems to have forgotten him
(v. 2). But the singer doesn't stay in lament-he looks up to the God he
doesn't fully understand but still trusts, singing, "Why, my soul, are you
downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet
praise him, my Savior and my God" (v. 5).
Life is filled with reasons for lament, and we all experience them on a
regular basis. But, if we allow that lament to point us to the God of hope,
we can sing joyfully-even if we sing through our tears.
By: Bill Crowder
Reflect & Pray
What concerns are you experiencing in this moment? From the testimony of
Scripture, how can God offer you hope in this season of life?
I cry to You, Father, as I struggle under
the burdens of life. Remind me that my help
comes from above, from the Maker of heaven and earth.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 2 - Growing Up
2 Tim 3:16-17
16 (Ro 15:4) All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable
for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction
in righteousness,
17 (1Ti 6:11; 2Ti 2:21) that the man of God may be complete,
thoroughly equipped for every good work.
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable
for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction
in righteousness:
17 that the man of God may be perfect,
throughly furnished unto all good works.
"I can't wait till I get big!" Marc, age 5, declared. "Then I do
what I want!" Most of us, as children, shared Marc's statement.
We looked forward to that "magic age" - 16, 18, 21 - when we
would be adults: mature, able to make our own decisions.
We find, of course, that adulthood has its own share of
difficulties and conflicts. But even in our spiritual lives
we often long for a "magic moment" of maturity. As one woman
confessed, "Ever since I became a Christian, I've hoped I'd wake up
one morning to find myself mature."
But growth in the spiritual life comes gradually, like growth in
the physical world. In 2 Tim 2:16-17, Paul gives the young pastor
Timothy an important key to spiritual growing up - the Word of God.
The Word is "profitable" or "useful," Paul says, for "teaching" - that is,
for developing a right concept of God. Scripture offers "rebuke" when
we go wrong, "correction" to set us on the right path, and "training
in righteousness" so that we can grow in the image of Christ.
The purpose of Scripture's work in our lives, Paul emphasises,
is that we may be "perfect" - mature, equipped for the good things
God has for us to do. Such maturity does not come easily
or instantaneously, but it does come - sometimes imperceptibly -
as we submit our lives to the transforming power of God's Word.
Application
a) In what areas of my life do I need to grow? How can I benefit
from the Bible's
i) teaching?
ii) rebuke?
iii) correction?
iv) training in righteousness?
b) How can memorising God's Word help me grow in those areas?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Luke 6:38
38 "Give, and it will be given to you: Good measure, pressed down,
shaken together, and running over will men give unto you.
For with the measure you use, it will be measured unto you."
38 give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down,
and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For
with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Burdened by Doubt
Proverbs 30:5
5 Every word of God is pure;
He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him.
5 Every word of God is pure:
He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Advent Day 16
C.S.Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck
"My brother and I took a day off last week, put sandwiches
in our pockets, and tramped sixteen miles... from Dorchester Abbey
to Oxford....You would be surprised if you could see the unspoilt
beauty and charm which can still be found I hope to send you
the autographed children's book by Christmas, but will probably
know more about its progress this afternoon,
as I am going out to lunch with my publisher." - C. S. Lewis
(From "Letter to Miss Vera Mathews," Sept. 20, 1950,
Lewis' Collected Letters, Ill, p. 54.)
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Advertisers will call their product "the perfect gift"
or "the gift for any occasion." Many people love books,
and books are among the favourite Christmas gifts to give or receive.
You can purchase a book on almost every imaginable subject. Books last.
Books can be read over and over again.
The book about which Lewis writes in this letter to Vera Mathews
is The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. It was released by Geoffrey Bles
Publishers on October 16, 1950, in time for the Christmas season.
In fact, most of the original Chronicles of Narnia books
were released in time for Christmas.
Christians are a "people of the book." Our word "Bible" comes
from a Greek word meaning "book." And as Jesus was the Word made flesh,
to tell his story God arranged for the writing of a book of books,
so constructed that we may believe that Jesus is the Christ.
Lewis once wrote, tongue in cheek, that God was an unscrupulous author,
leaving traps, nets, and stratagems everywhere in his book to snare
its readers (Surprised by Joy, p. 191). Indeed! God "wants all men
to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim. 2:4).
Thank you, Lord, for books, especially the Book, with its
testimony to Jesus as the Christ. Amen.
These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.
John 20:31
Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn
MONDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Recipients
His mercy is on those who fear Him
from generation to generation.
-Luke 1:50
It was fitting yesterday on the Third Sunday of Advent
to begin this week focusing on God's righting of injustice in the
world since we are preparing for the coming of Jesus, who spent
his life, contrary to the religious leaders, ministering to the poor
and the ill, the humble and the outcast. Consequently,
today we accentuate again (see Wednesday, First Week of Advent)
that significant word fear.
We have seen that God towers above us all, that his prodigious
power could (if he chose) do away with every one of us,
that we are inconsequential to his purposes, that our efforts are meager
in his sight. It is appropriate that we always remember this and properly
fear, for then we never take it for granted that God loves us,
that his grace floods over us, that his mercy endures forever!
What elation overwhelms us then, for we are awed that the Glorious One
stoops to select us! What lavish gratitude inhabits our souls!
Prayer
Bounteous God, how can I ever thank you sufficiently for
choosing me to be yours? Amen.
Read Luke 1:45-55.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."
The Song of Mary
46 And Mary said:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.
48 For He has regarded
the low estate of His servant;
surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.
49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His name.
50 His mercy is on those who fear Him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with His arm;
He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of low degree.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich He has sent away empty.
54 He has helped His servant Israel,
in remembrance of His mercy,
55 as He spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”
The AH-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD MONDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ATTITUDE!
Blessed is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
whose hope is in the Lord his God, PSALM 146:5
Notice the strong, positive attitude of the psalmist. He is "praising the Lord
not because everything is going well, but because of what the Lord has
clone . . . for all of us!
Hows your attitude today? Or, do you have an attitude about
your attitude? A friend of mine likes to say. "In case of an accident
I'm not surprised!" Great attitude, eh? Years ago I received a coffee cup
as a gift from a so-called friend which read. "Life is hard and then you die.
A great way to start each morning. don't you thinks
The AH-HAs of Advent help us to grasp that the Lord has given us
everything to change our UH-OH attitudes into AH-HA affirmations.
No wonder the psalmist can proclaim that "happy are those whose help is
the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God." The joy of Advent
is that we proclaim tile exact same message.
And more good news: even when we do not have a very positive attitude--
when we are dull and tired and dragging--the Lord continues to love us,
to prop us up, and to show us the way from the AH-HAs of Advent, through
the UH-OHs of Good Friday, and on to the Greatest AH-HA of them all--
EASTER! Advent is not a "let's pretend" game of thinking that Easter
has not happened No way! Easter is the real thing, right now. today!
What an attitude!
Lord. thanks for setting people free---for lifting us up and opening our
blind eyes to see the needs and hopes of others. Keep giving us an
attitude of gratitude. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Psalm 146
Psalms 146
1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) While I live I will praise the Lord;
I will sing praises unto my God while I have my life.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Do not put your trust in princes,
nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) His breath leaves him, and he returns to the earth;
on that very day his plans perish.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Blessed is he who has the God of Jacob for his help,
whose hope is in the Lord his God,
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) who made heaven, and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them,
who keeps faithfulness forever,
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) who executes justice for the oppressed,
who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord releases the prisoners.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) The Lord opens the eyes of the blind;
the Lord raises those who are brought down;
the Lord loves the righteous.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) The Lord preserves the sojourners;
He lifts up the fatherless and widow,
but on the way of the wicked He brings disaster.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) The Lord shall reign forever,
your God, O Zion, unto all generations.
Praise you the Lord!
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to conduct yourself as Jesus does.
Pray to the Lord: "I cry to You, Father, as I struggle under
the burdens of life. Remind me that my help
comes from above, from the Maker of heaven and earth."
Pray to the Lord and pray for His help to commit to knowing the word.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know His riches in Glory.
Pray to the Lord and His Word is pure!
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Thank you, Lord, for books, especially the Book, with its
testimony to Jesus as the Christ. Amen.
Pray: Bounteous God, how can I ever thank you sufficiently for
choosing me to be yours? Amen.
Pray: Lord. thanks for setting people free---for lifting us up and opening our
blind eyes to see the needs and hopes of others. Keep giving us an
attitude of gratitude. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray for the spiritual conviction of persecutors within the Communist Party
of Cuba who oppose the church.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
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