Day 348 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey 18th Day of Advent - 14 December 2022 reflections
Day 348, 14 December 2022
1) 2 Timothy 2,3,4
2 Timothy 2
A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
1 (Eph 6:10; 2Ti 1:2) So you, my son, be strong
in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 (1Ti 1:18; 6:12) Share the things that you have heard from me
in the presence of many witnesses with faithful men who will be able
to teach others also.
3 (1Ti 1:18; 2Ti 1:8) Endure hard times as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 (2Pe 2:20) No soldier on active duty entangles himself
with civilian affairs, that he may please the enlisting officer.
5 Anyone who competes as an athlete is not rewarded without competing legally.
6 The farmer who labors should be first to partake of the crops.
7 Consider what I am saying, and may the Lord grant you understanding
in all things.
8 (Mt 1:1; Ro 2:16) Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead,
descended from David, according to my gospel,
9 (Php 1:7; 2Ti 1:8) in which I suffer trouble like a criminal,
even with chains. But the word of God is not bound.
10 (Col 1:24; 2Co 1:6; 4:17) Therefore I endure all things for the sake
of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ
Jesus with eternal glory.
11 (Ro 6:8; 1Th 5:10) This is a faithful saying:
If we die with Him,
we shall also live with Him.
12 (Mt 10:33; Ro 8:17) If we endure, we shall also reign with Him.
If we deny Him, He also will deny us.
13 (Nu 23:19; Ro 3:3) If we are faithless, He remains faithful;
He cannot deny Himself.
[1] Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
[2] And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same
commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
[3] Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
[4] No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life;
that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
[5] And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he
strive lawfully.
[6] The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
[7] Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
[8] Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead
according to my gospel:
[9] Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word
of God is not bound.
[10] Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also
obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
[11] It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live
with him:
[12] If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also
will deny us:
[13] If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
An Approved Workman
14 (1Ti 5:21; 2Ti 2:23) Remind them of these things, commanding them before
the Lord that they not argue about words, which leads to nothing of value
and to the destruction of those who hear them.
15 (Mt 13:52) Study to show yourself approved by God, a workman who need
not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
16 (Titus 3:9; 1Ti 6:20) But avoid profane foolish babblings, for they will
increase to more ungodliness,
17 (1Ti 1:20) and their word will spread like gangrene: Among them are
Hymenaeus and Philetus,
18 (1Co 15:12; 1Ti 1:19) who have erred concerning the truth,
saying that the resurrection has already occurred,
and who overthrow the faith of some.
19 (Jn 10:14; Isa 28:16) But the firm foundation of God stands,
having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are His," and,
"Let everyone who calls on the name of Christ depart from iniquity."
20 (1Ti 3:15) In a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels,
but also those of wood and clay; some are for honor, and some for dishonour.
21 (2Ti 3:17; Isa 52:11) One who cleanses himself from these things will be
a vessel for honor, sanctified, fit for the Master's use,
and prepared for every good work.
22 (1Ti 6:11; 1:5; 4:12) So flee youthful desires and pursue righteousness,
faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
23 (Titus 3:9; 2Ti 2:14) But avoid foolish and unlearned debates, knowing
that they create strife.
24 (1Ti 3:2-3; Titus 3:2) The servant of the Lord must not quarrel,
but must be gentle toward all people, able to teach, patient,
25 (1Ti 2:4; Ac 8:22) in gentleness instructing those in opposition.
Perhaps God will grant them repentance to know the truth,
26 (1Ti 3:7) and they may escape from the snare of the devil,
after being captured by him to do his will.
[14] Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord
that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the
hearers.
[15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to
be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
[16] But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more
ungodliness.
[17] And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and
Philetus;
[18] Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is
past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
[19] Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The
Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of
Christ depart from iniquity.
[20] But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver,
but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
[21] If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto
honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every
good work.
[22] Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity,
peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
[23] But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender
strifes.
[24] And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all
men, apt to teach, patient,
[25] In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God
peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
[26] And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who
are taken captive by him at his will.
2 Timothy 3
The Last Days
1 (Eze 38:16; 2Pe 3:3) Know this: In the last days perilous times will come.
2 (Php 2:21; Jude 1:16) Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money,
boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 (Ro 1:31; 1Ti 3:11) without natural affection, trucebreakers, slanderers,
unrestrained, fierce, despisers of those who are good,
4 (1Ti 3:6) traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasures
more than lovers of God,
5 (1Ti 5:8; Mt 7:15) having a form of godliness,
but denying its power. Turn away from such people.
6 (Titus 3:3; Jude 1:4) Those of this nature creep into houses
and captivate silly women who are burdened with sins
and led away with various desires,
7 (1Ti 2:4; 2Ti 2:25) always learning, but never able to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
8 (Ex 7:11; 1Ti 6:5) Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses,
so these also resist the truth, men of corrupt minds
and worthless concerning the faith.
9 (Ex 7:12; 9:11) But they shall proceed no further,
for their folly will be revealed to everyone, as theirs also was.
[1] This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
[2] For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud,
blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
[3] Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent,
fierce, despisers of those that are good,
[4] Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of
God;
[5] Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such
turn away.
[6] For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive
silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
[7] Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
[8] Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the
truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
[9] But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest
unto all men, as theirs also was.
Last Charge to Timothy
10 (Php 2:22; 1Ti 4:6) But you have observed my doctrine,
manner of life, purpose,
faith, tolerance, love, patience,
11 (Ps 34:19; Ac 13:45) persecutions, and afflictions, which came to me
at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra-what persecutions I endured!
But the Lord delivered me out of them all.
12 (Ac 14:22; Titus 2:12) Yes, and all who desire to live a godly life
in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
13 But evil men and seducers will grow worse and worse, deceiving
and being deceived.
14 (2Ti 1:13) But continue in the things that you have learned
and have been assured of, knowing those from whom you have learned them,
15 (2Ti 1:5) and that since childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures,
which are able to make you wise unto salvation through the faith that is
in Christ Jesus.
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.
[10] But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith,
longsuffering, charity, patience,
[11] Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium,
at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord
delivered me.
[12] Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution.
[13] But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and
being deceived.
[14] But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been
assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
[15] And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are
able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ
Jesus.
[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.
2 Timothy 4:1-18
1 (Ac 10:42; 1Ti 5:21) I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus
Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing
and His kingdom:
2 (Titus 1:13; 2:15) Preach the word, be ready in season and out of season,
reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching.
3 (1Ti 1:10) For the time will come when people will not endure sound
doctrine, but they will gather to themselves teachers in accordance
with their own desires, having itching ears,
4 (1Ti 1:4; 4:7) and they will turn their ears away from the truth
and turn to myths.
5 (Ac 21:8; 2Ti 1:8) But be self-controlled in all things,
endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist,
and prove your ministry.
6 (Php 1:23; 2:17) For I am already being poured out as a drink offering,
and the time of my departure has come.
7 (Ac 20:24; 1Ti 6:12) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course,
and I have kept the faith.
8 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 1:12) From now on a crown of righteousness is laid up for me,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day, and not only
to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.
[1] I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall
judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
[2] Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,
exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
[3] For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but
after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching
ears;
[4] And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned
unto fables.
[5] But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an
evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
[6] For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at
hand.
[7] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the
faith:
[8] Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the
Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only,
but unto all them also that love his appearing.
Personal Instructions
9 (2Ti 1:4; 4:21) Diligently try to come to me soon.
10 (Ac 16:6; 17:1) Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world,
and has departed to Thessalonica, Crescens to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.
11 (Ac 12:12; Col 4:14) Only Luke is with me. Get Mark, and bring him with you,
for he is profitable to me for the ministry.
12 (Ac 20:4; Eph 6:21) I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
13 (Ac 16:8) When you come, bring with you the cloak that I left
at Troas with Carpus, and the books, but especially the parchments.
14 (1Ti 1:20; Ps 28:4) Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil.
May the Lord reward him according to his works.
15 Beware of him, for he has greatly opposed our words.
16 (Ac 7:60) At my first defense no one stood with me,
but everyone forsook me. May it not be charged against them.
17 (Ac 9:15; Ps 22:21) But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me,
so that through me the preaching might be fully known, and that
all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
18 (Ro 11:36; Ps 121:7) The Lord will deliver me from every evil work
and will preserve me for His heavenly kingdom, to whom be glory forever
and ever. Amen.
[9] Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:
[10] For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is
departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
[11] Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is
profitable to me for the ministry.
[12] And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.
[13] The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring
with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.
[14] Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him
according to his works:
[15] Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
[16] At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray
God that it may not be laid to their charge.
[17] Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me
the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear:
and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
[18] And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve
me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
19 (Ac 18:2) Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.
20 (Ac 20:4; 19:22) Erastus remained at Corinth, and I have left Trophimus
ill in Miletus.
21 (2Ti 4:9) Diligently try to come before winter. Eubulus greets you,
and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers.
22 (Gal 6:18; Col 4:18) The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Grace be with you. Amen.
[19] Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
[20] Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.
[21] Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and
Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.
[22] The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 14 December 2022
Entitled "In His Hands"
Job 38:4-21
4 "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?
Declare, if you have understanding.
5 Who has determined its measurements, if you know?
Or who has stretched the line upon it?
6 To what are its foundations fastened?
Or who laid its cornerstone
7 when the morning stars sang together,
and all the sons of God shouted for joy?
8 "Or who shut up the sea with doors
when it broke forth and went out of the womb?
9When I made the cloud its garment,
and thick darkness its swaddling band,
10 and broke up for it My decreed place,
and set bars and doors,
11 and said, 'This far you will come but no farther,
and here your proud waves will be stopped'?
12 "Have you commanded the morning in your days,
and caused the dawn to know its place,
13 that it might take hold of the ends of the earth,
that the wicked might be shaken out of it?
14It is turned like clay by the seal,
and it stands out as a garment.
15 From the wicked their light is withheld,
and the high arm will be broken.
16 "Have you entered into the springs of the sea?
Or have you walked in search of the depths?
17 Have the gates of death been opened to you?
Or have you seen the doors of the shadow of death?
18 Have you perceived the breadth of the earth?
Declare, if you know it all.
19 "Where is the path where light dwells?
And as for darkness, where is its place,
20 that you should take it to its boundary,
and that you should know the paths to its house?
21 Do you know it because you were born then,
or because the number of your days is many?
4 Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?
Declare, if thou hast understanding.
5 Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest?
Or who hath stretched the line upon it?
6 Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened?
Or who laid the corner stone thereof;
7 When the morning stars sang together,
And all the sons of God shouted for joy?
8 Or who shut up the sea with doors,
When it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb?
9 When I made the cloud the garment thereof,
And thick darkness a swaddlingband for it,
10 And brake up for it my decreed place,
And set bars and doors,
11 And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further:
And here shall thy proud waves be stayed?
12 Hast thou commanded the morning since thy days;
And caused the dayspring to know his place;
13 That it might take hold of the ends of the earth,
That the wicked might be shaken out of it?
14 It is turned as clay to the seal;
And they stand as a garment.
15 And from the wicked their light is withholden,
And the high arm shall be broken.
16 Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea?
Or hast thou walked in the search of the depth?
17 Have the gates of death been opened unto thee?
Or hast thou seen the doors of the shadow of death?
18 Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth?
Declare if thou knowest it all.
19 Where is the way where light dwelleth?
And as for darkness, where is the place thereof,
20 That thou shouldest take it to the bound thereof,
And that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof?
21 Knowest thou it, because thou wast then born?
Or because the number of thy days is great?
William Shatner played Captain Kirk on the television series Star Trek, but
he was unprepared for a real trip into space. He called his eleven-minute
sub-orbital flight "the most profound experience I can imagine." He stepped
out of his rocket and marveled, "To see the blue color go right by you
and now you're staring into blackness, that's the thing." You "look down
and there's the blue down there and the black up there." He added,
"The beauty of that coluor and it’s so thin and you're through it in an
instant."
Our planet is a blue dot surrounded by utter darkness. It's unsettling.
Shatner said that flying from blue sky into blackness was like flying into
death. "In an instant, you go, 'Whoa, that's death!' That's what I saw. It
was so moving to me. This experience, it's something unbelievable."
Shatner's shattering flight puts life in perspective. We're small objects in
the universe, yet we're loved by the One who created light and separated it
from the darkness (Genesis 1:3-4). Our Father knows where the darkness resides
and the path to its dwelling (Job 38:19-20). He "laid the earth's foundation . . . while the morning stars sang together
and all the angels shouted for joy" (vv. 4–7).
Let's trust our small lives to the God who holds the whole universe
in His hands.
By: Mike Wittmer
Reflect & Pray
What comes to mind as you consider the vastness of space?
What does the night sky reveal about God?
Father, You rule this world
and all that lies beyond. I trust Your powerful love.
For further study, read
Get Outside: Knowing God Through His Creation.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 4 - Arming for Battle
Joshua 1:8
8 (Ps 19:14; 119:15) This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth.
Meditate on it day and night so that you may act carefully according
to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way successful,
and you will be wise.
8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt
meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according
to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous,
and then thou shalt have good success.
When God spoke these words to Joshua, the young leader's prospects for
"prosperity" and "success" were far from promising. Upon Moses' death,
Joshua was appointed to lead Israel into the Promised Land, to claim
the territory and establish a nation under God's rule.
Joshua was afraid, and for good reason. The people were rebellious
and intractable. And "claiming the land" meant battling many strong enemies.
Yet God told Joshua that his strength would come not in preparing for battle,
but in preparing for battle, but in preparing himself by meditating
on and applying God's word to his life.
We, too, face difficult battles as we seek to enter the "Promised Land"
of God's peace and presence. But his promise is the same as it was to Joshua:
through obedience to the Word, we can find prosperity and success.
God's promise does not necessarily mean financial prosperity
or material success. These victories may come as well, but God's primary
purpose for his people is spiritual success - the victory and joy of living
in fellowship with him. We can be enriched in the knowledge of God and
find power to overcome the enemies of sin and self. The way may not be easy
- after all, there is no victory without conflict - but God promises
that we will succeed as we look to him.
Application
a) What image do I have a personal "Promised Land" that I long
to enter and claim as my own?
b) What enemies will I need to battle in order to enter that land?
c) How can meditation on the Word of God and obedience to him bring me
prosperity and success?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Prov 3:9-10
9 Honour the Lord with your substance,
and with the first fruits of all your increase;
10 so your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your presses will burst out with new wine.
9 Honour the LORD with thy substance,
And with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty,
And thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Worried Over Money
Hebr 13:5-6
5 Let your lives be without love of money, and be content
with the things you have. For He has said:
"I will never leave you, nor forsake you."
6 So we may boldly say:
"The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"
5 Let your conversation be without covetousness;
and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said,
I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
6 So that we may boldly say,
The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear
What man shall do unto me.
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
14th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
)
b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Advent Day 18
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck
Wednesday. Third Week of Advent
"The Scotch catechism says that man's end is 'to glorify God and enjoy Him
forever'. But we shall then know that these are the same thing. Fully to
enjoy is to glorify. In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us
to enjoy Him." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Reflections on the Psalms, p. 97.)
Enjoying God
When we set aside the flurry of activity that so often comes in December,
we can almost hear the message of the angels. They invited the shepherds
not to be afraid, but to give glory to God. Lewis tells us that when they
did this, the angels were inviting them to enjoy God.
Aren't we, too, being invited in this holy season to give glory to God?
God doesn't really need our praise and glory, but he knows that we need
to lift up our hearts. We need to lift up our eyes unto the hills,
from whence our help comes, and see the glory that will be revealed to us.
Narnia can help us to do that. Narnia contains many pleasures, and they all
come from God. The gifts of Father Christmas to Peter, Susan, and Lucy
are some of those pleasures. The crowning of the four children to be Kings
and Queens of Narnia are another. The arrival of Reepicheep, the talking
mouse, in Aslan's country is a third. God gave Lewis the vision.
In enjoying his vision, we are enjoying God.
Even in the midst of suffering, we need this reminder. St. Paul tells us,
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with
the glory that will be revealed to us" (Rom. 8:18). When we give glory to God,
it reminds us of the glory that will be revealed to us. And we find joy
in this glory. That's one reason why the message was "good news
of great joy" (Luke 2:10), not only for the shepherds,
but "for all the people"-including us.
Glory to you, 0 Lord. Praise to you, 0 Christ.
Glory to God in the highest. Amen.
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests.
Luke 2:14
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
WEDNESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Gift of a Child
Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.
-Luke 1:57
Because our culture has basically disregarded God, our society
at large does not appreciate what a colossal treasure
from God a child is! Some women, including me, for mainly medical reasons,
can't bear children and for that reason comprehend much more deeply
how precious such a gift is.
Elizabeth, too, had not been able to bear children earlier in her youth,
and it was incontrovertibly miraculous that she could give birth
now in her older years. Her friends and relatives knew what
an enormous benevolence from God this child was-the text says that
they had "heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy to [Elizabeth]"
-so they enthusiastically joined her in rejoicing.
What a splendid celebration they must have had!
What cherished blessing have you received from the Lord lately?
Do you need to prize afresh your spouse or children as treasures from God?
Perhaps your God-given gifts include friends, colleagues
or relatives who bring you mercy and grace.
prayer
Thank you, Bounteous God, for ALL your gifts. Amen.
Read Luke 1:57-58.
57 Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.
58 Her neighbours and cousins heard how the Lord had shown her great mercy,
and they rejoiced with her.
From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD WEDNESDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AWAITING!
Therefore be patient, brothers,
until the coming of the Lord. JAMES 5:7
Have you heard the story of Grandma saying to Grandpa, "What are
you doing?" Grandpa slowly responds, "How soon do you need to know?"
Patience, patience, patience.
In the book Power of Pause, Terry Hershey tells the story of a little girl
who says. "Shh, Mom, listen." "What am I listening to?" asks Mom
The girl responds, "If you are quiet and listen, you can hear God talking
to us." Patience, patience, patience.
The AH-HA of awaiting is the call to be patient, and to be quiet in order
to hear the Lord in the big and little events of our lives. "The first duty
of love is to wait," said a patient man named Tillich. Are you ever like I am
when I anxiously wait for someone to stop talking so I can say something
"brilliant" ? As one comic quipped. "No one really listens to anyone else, and
if you ever try to for a while, you'll know why!" Patience. patience. patience.
Just for today. try to really listen to someone with your entire self.
And then keep going back to re-read James 5 . .. over and over.
Patience, patience, patience.
Lord. give us the gift of patience and the AH-HA of awaiting right now:
Well, if not now, then give us the pause of patience to listen and love
people today, as you continue to love us. with lots of patience!
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read James 5:7-11
7 (Dt 11:14; Jer 5:24) Therefore be patient, brothers,
until the coming of the Lord. Notice how the farmer waits for the precious
fruit of the earth and is patient with it until he receives the early
and late rain.
8 (1Pe 4:7; Php 4:5) You also be patient. Establish your hearts,
for the coming of the Lord is drawing near.
9 (Mt 24:33; 1Co 4:5) Do not grumble against one another, brothers,
lest you be condemned. Look, the Judge is standing at the door.
10 (Ac 7:52; Heb 11:32-38) My brothers, take the prophets,
who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.
11 (Ex 34:6; Job 1:21-22) Indeed we count them happy who endure.
You have heard of the patience of Job and have seen the purpose of the Lord,
that the Lord is very gracious and merciful.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to endure and confess the Lord Jesus Christ
is Living Saviour.
Pray to the Lord: "Father, You rule this world
and all that lies beyond. I trust Your powerful love."
Pray to the Lord and pray to meditate on His Word to enter the Promised Land.
Pray to the Lord and pray to honour Him with your first fruits.
Pray to the Lord and pray to remember the Lord is your helper!
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 for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation
Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Glory to you, 0 Lord. Praise to you, 0 Christ.
Glory to God in the highest. Amen.
Pray: Thank you, Bounteous God, for ALL your gifts. Amen.
Pray: Lord. give us the gift of patience and the AH-HA of awaiting right now:
Well, if not now, then give us the pause of patience to listen and love
people today, as you continue to love us. with lots of patience!
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray for the encouragement and refreshment of pastors and church staff
in Syria who are exhausted by war and unrest.
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) 2 Timothy 2,3,4
2 Timothy 2
A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
1 (Eph 6:10; 2Ti 1:2) So you, my son, be strong
in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
2 (1Ti 1:18; 6:12) Share the things that you have heard from me
in the presence of many witnesses with faithful men who will be able
to teach others also.
3 (1Ti 1:18; 2Ti 1:8) Endure hard times as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
4 (2Pe 2:20) No soldier on active duty entangles himself
with civilian affairs, that he may please the enlisting officer.
5 Anyone who competes as an athlete is not rewarded without competing legally.
6 The farmer who labors should be first to partake of the crops.
7 Consider what I am saying, and may the Lord grant you understanding
in all things.
8 (Mt 1:1; Ro 2:16) Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead,
descended from David, according to my gospel,
9 (Php 1:7; 2Ti 1:8) in which I suffer trouble like a criminal,
even with chains. But the word of God is not bound.
10 (Col 1:24; 2Co 1:6; 4:17) Therefore I endure all things for the sake
of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ
Jesus with eternal glory.
11 (Ro 6:8; 1Th 5:10) This is a faithful saying:
If we die with Him,
we shall also live with Him.
12 (Mt 10:33; Ro 8:17) If we endure, we shall also reign with Him.
If we deny Him, He also will deny us.
13 (Nu 23:19; Ro 3:3) If we are faithless, He remains faithful;
He cannot deny Himself.
[1] Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
[2] And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same
commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
[3] Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
[4] No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life;
that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
[5] And if a man also strive for masteries, yet is he not crowned, except he
strive lawfully.
[6] The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.
[7] Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.
[8] Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead
according to my gospel:
[9] Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word
of God is not bound.
[10] Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also
obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
[11] It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live
with him:
[12] If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also
will deny us:
[13] If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
An Approved Workman
14 (1Ti 5:21; 2Ti 2:23) Remind them of these things, commanding them before
the Lord that they not argue about words, which leads to nothing of value
and to the destruction of those who hear them.
15 (Mt 13:52) Study to show yourself approved by God, a workman who need
not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
16 (Titus 3:9; 1Ti 6:20) But avoid profane foolish babblings, for they will
increase to more ungodliness,
17 (1Ti 1:20) and their word will spread like gangrene: Among them are
Hymenaeus and Philetus,
18 (1Co 15:12; 1Ti 1:19) who have erred concerning the truth,
saying that the resurrection has already occurred,
and who overthrow the faith of some.
19 (Jn 10:14; Isa 28:16) But the firm foundation of God stands,
having this seal, "The Lord knows those who are His," and,
"Let everyone who calls on the name of Christ depart from iniquity."
20 (1Ti 3:15) In a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels,
but also those of wood and clay; some are for honor, and some for dishonour.
21 (2Ti 3:17; Isa 52:11) One who cleanses himself from these things will be
a vessel for honor, sanctified, fit for the Master's use,
and prepared for every good work.
22 (1Ti 6:11; 1:5; 4:12) So flee youthful desires and pursue righteousness,
faith, love, and peace, with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
23 (Titus 3:9; 2Ti 2:14) But avoid foolish and unlearned debates, knowing
that they create strife.
24 (1Ti 3:2-3; Titus 3:2) The servant of the Lord must not quarrel,
but must be gentle toward all people, able to teach, patient,
25 (1Ti 2:4; Ac 8:22) in gentleness instructing those in opposition.
Perhaps God will grant them repentance to know the truth,
26 (1Ti 3:7) and they may escape from the snare of the devil,
after being captured by him to do his will.
[14] Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord
that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the
hearers.
[15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to
be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
[16] But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more
ungodliness.
[17] And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and
Philetus;
[18] Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is
past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
[19] Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The
Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of
Christ depart from iniquity.
[20] But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver,
but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
[21] If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto
honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every
good work.
[22] Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity,
peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
[23] But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender
strifes.
[24] And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all
men, apt to teach, patient,
[25] In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God
peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
[26] And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who
are taken captive by him at his will.
2 Timothy 3
The Last Days
1 (Eze 38:16; 2Pe 3:3) Know this: In the last days perilous times will come.
2 (Php 2:21; Jude 1:16) Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money,
boastful, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 (Ro 1:31; 1Ti 3:11) without natural affection, trucebreakers, slanderers,
unrestrained, fierce, despisers of those who are good,
4 (1Ti 3:6) traitors, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasures
more than lovers of God,
5 (1Ti 5:8; Mt 7:15) having a form of godliness,
but denying its power. Turn away from such people.
6 (Titus 3:3; Jude 1:4) Those of this nature creep into houses
and captivate silly women who are burdened with sins
and led away with various desires,
7 (1Ti 2:4; 2Ti 2:25) always learning, but never able to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
8 (Ex 7:11; 1Ti 6:5) Now as Jannes and Jambres resisted Moses,
so these also resist the truth, men of corrupt minds
and worthless concerning the faith.
9 (Ex 7:12; 9:11) But they shall proceed no further,
for their folly will be revealed to everyone, as theirs also was.
[1] This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
[2] For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud,
blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
[3] Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent,
fierce, despisers of those that are good,
[4] Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of
God;
[5] Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such
turn away.
[6] For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive
silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,
[7] Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.
[8] Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the
truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
[9] But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest
unto all men, as theirs also was.
Last Charge to Timothy
10 (Php 2:22; 1Ti 4:6) But you have observed my doctrine,
manner of life, purpose,
faith, tolerance, love, patience,
11 (Ps 34:19; Ac 13:45) persecutions, and afflictions, which came to me
at Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra-what persecutions I endured!
But the Lord delivered me out of them all.
12 (Ac 14:22; Titus 2:12) Yes, and all who desire to live a godly life
in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.
13 But evil men and seducers will grow worse and worse, deceiving
and being deceived.
14 (2Ti 1:13) But continue in the things that you have learned
and have been assured of, knowing those from whom you have learned them,
15 (2Ti 1:5) and that since childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures,
which are able to make you wise unto salvation through the faith that is
in Christ Jesus.
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.
[10] But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith,
longsuffering, charity, patience,
[11] Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium,
at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord
delivered me.
[12] Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer
persecution.
[13] But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and
being deceived.
[14] But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been
assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
[15] And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are
able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ
Jesus.
[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.
2 Timothy 4:1-18
1 (Ac 10:42; 1Ti 5:21) I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus
Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing
and His kingdom:
2 (Titus 1:13; 2:15) Preach the word, be ready in season and out of season,
reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching.
3 (1Ti 1:10) For the time will come when people will not endure sound
doctrine, but they will gather to themselves teachers in accordance
with their own desires, having itching ears,
4 (1Ti 1:4; 4:7) and they will turn their ears away from the truth
and turn to myths.
5 (Ac 21:8; 2Ti 1:8) But be self-controlled in all things,
endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist,
and prove your ministry.
6 (Php 1:23; 2:17) For I am already being poured out as a drink offering,
and the time of my departure has come.
7 (Ac 20:24; 1Ti 6:12) I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course,
and I have kept the faith.
8 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 1:12) From now on a crown of righteousness is laid up for me,
which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that Day, and not only
to me but also to all who have loved His appearing.
[1] I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall
judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;
[2] Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,
exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
[3] For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but
after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching
ears;
[4] And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned
unto fables.
[5] But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an
evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
[6] For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at
hand.
[7] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the
faith:
[8] Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the
Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only,
but unto all them also that love his appearing.
Personal Instructions
9 (2Ti 1:4; 4:21) Diligently try to come to me soon.
10 (Ac 16:6; 17:1) Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world,
and has departed to Thessalonica, Crescens to Galatia, and Titus to Dalmatia.
11 (Ac 12:12; Col 4:14) Only Luke is with me. Get Mark, and bring him with you,
for he is profitable to me for the ministry.
12 (Ac 20:4; Eph 6:21) I sent Tychicus to Ephesus.
13 (Ac 16:8) When you come, bring with you the cloak that I left
at Troas with Carpus, and the books, but especially the parchments.
14 (1Ti 1:20; Ps 28:4) Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil.
May the Lord reward him according to his works.
15 Beware of him, for he has greatly opposed our words.
16 (Ac 7:60) At my first defense no one stood with me,
but everyone forsook me. May it not be charged against them.
17 (Ac 9:15; Ps 22:21) But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me,
so that through me the preaching might be fully known, and that
all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
18 (Ro 11:36; Ps 121:7) The Lord will deliver me from every evil work
and will preserve me for His heavenly kingdom, to whom be glory forever
and ever. Amen.
[9] Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:
[10] For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is
departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.
[11] Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is
profitable to me for the ministry.
[12] And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.
[13] The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring
with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.
[14] Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him
according to his works:
[15] Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.
[16] At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray
God that it may not be laid to their charge.
[17] Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me
the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear:
and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
[18] And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve
me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Final Greetings
19 (Ac 18:2) Greet Priscilla and Aquila and the household of Onesiphorus.
20 (Ac 20:4; 19:22) Erastus remained at Corinth, and I have left Trophimus
ill in Miletus.
21 (2Ti 4:9) Diligently try to come before winter. Eubulus greets you,
and so do Pudens, Linus, Claudia, and all the brothers.
22 (Gal 6:18; Col 4:18) The Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Grace be with you. Amen.
[19] Salute Prisca and Aquila, and the household of Onesiphorus.
[20] Erastus abode at Corinth: but Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.
[21] Do thy diligence to come before winter. Eubulus greeteth thee, and
Pudens, and Linus, and Claudia, and all the brethren.
[22] The Lord Jesus Christ be with thy spirit. Grace be with you. Amen.
2) Our Daily Bread for 14 December 2022
Entitled "In His Hands"
Job 38:4-21
4 "Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?
Declare, if you have understanding.
5 Who has determined its measurements, if you know?
Or who has stretched the line upon it?
6 To what are its foundations fastened?
Or who laid its cornerstone
7 when the morning stars sang together,
and all the sons of God shouted for joy?
8 "Or who shut up the sea with doors
when it broke forth and went out of the womb?
9When I made the cloud its garment,
and thick darkness its swaddling band,
10 and broke up for it My decreed place,
and set bars and doors,
11 and said, 'This far you will come but no farther,
and here your proud waves will be stopped'?
12 "Have you commanded the morning in your days,
and caused the dawn to know its place,
13 that it might take hold of the ends of the earth,
that the wicked might be shaken out of it?
14It is turned like clay by the seal,
and it stands out as a garment.
15 From the wicked their light is withheld,
and the high arm will be broken.
16 "Have you entered into the springs of the sea?
Or have you walked in search of the depths?
17 Have the gates of death been opened to you?
Or have you seen the doors of the shadow of death?
18 Have you perceived the breadth of the earth?
Declare, if you know it all.
19 "Where is the path where light dwells?
And as for darkness, where is its place,
20 that you should take it to its boundary,
and that you should know the paths to its house?
21 Do you know it because you were born then,
or because the number of your days is many?
4 Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?
Declare, if thou hast understanding.
5 Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest?
Or who hath stretched the line upon it?
6 Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened?
Or who laid the corner stone thereof;
7 When the morning stars sang together,
And all the sons of God shouted for joy?
8 Or who shut up the sea with doors,
When it brake forth, as if it had issued out of the womb?
9 When I made the cloud the garment thereof,
And thick darkness a swaddlingband for it,
10 And brake up for it my decreed place,
And set bars and doors,
11 And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further:
And here shall thy proud waves be stayed?
12 Hast thou commanded the morning since thy days;
And caused the dayspring to know his place;
13 That it might take hold of the ends of the earth,
That the wicked might be shaken out of it?
14 It is turned as clay to the seal;
And they stand as a garment.
15 And from the wicked their light is withholden,
And the high arm shall be broken.
16 Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea?
Or hast thou walked in the search of the depth?
17 Have the gates of death been opened unto thee?
Or hast thou seen the doors of the shadow of death?
18 Hast thou perceived the breadth of the earth?
Declare if thou knowest it all.
19 Where is the way where light dwelleth?
And as for darkness, where is the place thereof,
20 That thou shouldest take it to the bound thereof,
And that thou shouldest know the paths to the house thereof?
21 Knowest thou it, because thou wast then born?
Or because the number of thy days is great?
William Shatner played Captain Kirk on the television series Star Trek, but
he was unprepared for a real trip into space. He called his eleven-minute
sub-orbital flight "the most profound experience I can imagine." He stepped
out of his rocket and marveled, "To see the blue color go right by you
and now you're staring into blackness, that's the thing." You "look down
and there's the blue down there and the black up there." He added,
"The beauty of that coluor and it’s so thin and you're through it in an
instant."
Our planet is a blue dot surrounded by utter darkness. It's unsettling.
Shatner said that flying from blue sky into blackness was like flying into
death. "In an instant, you go, 'Whoa, that's death!' That's what I saw. It
was so moving to me. This experience, it's something unbelievable."
Shatner's shattering flight puts life in perspective. We're small objects in
the universe, yet we're loved by the One who created light and separated it
from the darkness (Genesis 1:3-4). Our Father knows where the darkness resides
and the path to its dwelling (Job 38:19-20). He "laid the earth's foundation . . . while the morning stars sang together
and all the angels shouted for joy" (vv. 4–7).
Let's trust our small lives to the God who holds the whole universe
in His hands.
By: Mike Wittmer
Reflect & Pray
What comes to mind as you consider the vastness of space?
What does the night sky reveal about God?
Father, You rule this world
and all that lies beyond. I trust Your powerful love.
For further study, read
Get Outside: Knowing God Through His Creation.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 4 - Arming for Battle
Joshua 1:8
8 (Ps 19:14; 119:15) This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth.
Meditate on it day and night so that you may act carefully according
to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way successful,
and you will be wise.
8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt
meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according
to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous,
and then thou shalt have good success.
When God spoke these words to Joshua, the young leader's prospects for
"prosperity" and "success" were far from promising. Upon Moses' death,
Joshua was appointed to lead Israel into the Promised Land, to claim
the territory and establish a nation under God's rule.
Joshua was afraid, and for good reason. The people were rebellious
and intractable. And "claiming the land" meant battling many strong enemies.
Yet God told Joshua that his strength would come not in preparing for battle,
but in preparing for battle, but in preparing himself by meditating
on and applying God's word to his life.
We, too, face difficult battles as we seek to enter the "Promised Land"
of God's peace and presence. But his promise is the same as it was to Joshua:
through obedience to the Word, we can find prosperity and success.
God's promise does not necessarily mean financial prosperity
or material success. These victories may come as well, but God's primary
purpose for his people is spiritual success - the victory and joy of living
in fellowship with him. We can be enriched in the knowledge of God and
find power to overcome the enemies of sin and self. The way may not be easy
- after all, there is no victory without conflict - but God promises
that we will succeed as we look to him.
Application
a) What image do I have a personal "Promised Land" that I long
to enter and claim as my own?
b) What enemies will I need to battle in order to enter that land?
c) How can meditation on the Word of God and obedience to him bring me
prosperity and success?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Prov 3:9-10
9 Honour the Lord with your substance,
and with the first fruits of all your increase;
10 so your barns will be filled with plenty,
and your presses will burst out with new wine.
9 Honour the LORD with thy substance,
And with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty,
And thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Worried Over Money
Hebr 13:5-6
5 Let your lives be without love of money, and be content
with the things you have. For He has said:
"I will never leave you, nor forsake you."
6 So we may boldly say:
"The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?"
5 Let your conversation be without covetousness;
and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said,
I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
6 So that we may boldly say,
The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear
What man shall do unto me.
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
14th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
)
b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Advent Day 18
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck
Wednesday. Third Week of Advent
"The Scotch catechism says that man's end is 'to glorify God and enjoy Him
forever'. But we shall then know that these are the same thing. Fully to
enjoy is to glorify. In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us
to enjoy Him." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Reflections on the Psalms, p. 97.)
Enjoying God
When we set aside the flurry of activity that so often comes in December,
we can almost hear the message of the angels. They invited the shepherds
not to be afraid, but to give glory to God. Lewis tells us that when they
did this, the angels were inviting them to enjoy God.
Aren't we, too, being invited in this holy season to give glory to God?
God doesn't really need our praise and glory, but he knows that we need
to lift up our hearts. We need to lift up our eyes unto the hills,
from whence our help comes, and see the glory that will be revealed to us.
Narnia can help us to do that. Narnia contains many pleasures, and they all
come from God. The gifts of Father Christmas to Peter, Susan, and Lucy
are some of those pleasures. The crowning of the four children to be Kings
and Queens of Narnia are another. The arrival of Reepicheep, the talking
mouse, in Aslan's country is a third. God gave Lewis the vision.
In enjoying his vision, we are enjoying God.
Even in the midst of suffering, we need this reminder. St. Paul tells us,
"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with
the glory that will be revealed to us" (Rom. 8:18). When we give glory to God,
it reminds us of the glory that will be revealed to us. And we find joy
in this glory. That's one reason why the message was "good news
of great joy" (Luke 2:10), not only for the shepherds,
but "for all the people"-including us.
Glory to you, 0 Lord. Praise to you, 0 Christ.
Glory to God in the highest. Amen.
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests.
Luke 2:14
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
WEDNESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Gift of a Child
Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.
-Luke 1:57
Because our culture has basically disregarded God, our society
at large does not appreciate what a colossal treasure
from God a child is! Some women, including me, for mainly medical reasons,
can't bear children and for that reason comprehend much more deeply
how precious such a gift is.
Elizabeth, too, had not been able to bear children earlier in her youth,
and it was incontrovertibly miraculous that she could give birth
now in her older years. Her friends and relatives knew what
an enormous benevolence from God this child was-the text says that
they had "heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy to [Elizabeth]"
-so they enthusiastically joined her in rejoicing.
What a splendid celebration they must have had!
What cherished blessing have you received from the Lord lately?
Do you need to prize afresh your spouse or children as treasures from God?
Perhaps your God-given gifts include friends, colleagues
or relatives who bring you mercy and grace.
prayer
Thank you, Bounteous God, for ALL your gifts. Amen.
Read Luke 1:57-58.
57 Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.
58 Her neighbours and cousins heard how the Lord had shown her great mercy,
and they rejoiced with her.
From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD WEDNESDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AWAITING!
Therefore be patient, brothers,
until the coming of the Lord. JAMES 5:7
Have you heard the story of Grandma saying to Grandpa, "What are
you doing?" Grandpa slowly responds, "How soon do you need to know?"
Patience, patience, patience.
In the book Power of Pause, Terry Hershey tells the story of a little girl
who says. "Shh, Mom, listen." "What am I listening to?" asks Mom
The girl responds, "If you are quiet and listen, you can hear God talking
to us." Patience, patience, patience.
The AH-HA of awaiting is the call to be patient, and to be quiet in order
to hear the Lord in the big and little events of our lives. "The first duty
of love is to wait," said a patient man named Tillich. Are you ever like I am
when I anxiously wait for someone to stop talking so I can say something
"brilliant" ? As one comic quipped. "No one really listens to anyone else, and
if you ever try to for a while, you'll know why!" Patience. patience. patience.
Just for today. try to really listen to someone with your entire self.
And then keep going back to re-read James 5 . .. over and over.
Patience, patience, patience.
Lord. give us the gift of patience and the AH-HA of awaiting right now:
Well, if not now, then give us the pause of patience to listen and love
people today, as you continue to love us. with lots of patience!
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read James 5:7-11
7 (Dt 11:14; Jer 5:24) Therefore be patient, brothers,
until the coming of the Lord. Notice how the farmer waits for the precious
fruit of the earth and is patient with it until he receives the early
and late rain.
8 (1Pe 4:7; Php 4:5) You also be patient. Establish your hearts,
for the coming of the Lord is drawing near.
9 (Mt 24:33; 1Co 4:5) Do not grumble against one another, brothers,
lest you be condemned. Look, the Judge is standing at the door.
10 (Ac 7:52; Heb 11:32-38) My brothers, take the prophets,
who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.
11 (Ex 34:6; Job 1:21-22) Indeed we count them happy who endure.
You have heard of the patience of Job and have seen the purpose of the Lord,
that the Lord is very gracious and merciful.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to endure and confess the Lord Jesus Christ
is Living Saviour.
Pray to the Lord: "Father, You rule this world
and all that lies beyond. I trust Your powerful love."
Pray to the Lord and pray to meditate on His Word to enter the Promised Land.
Pray to the Lord and pray to honour Him with your first fruits.
Pray to the Lord and pray to remember the Lord is your helper!
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 for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation
Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Glory to you, 0 Lord. Praise to you, 0 Christ.
Glory to God in the highest. Amen.
Pray: Thank you, Bounteous God, for ALL your gifts. Amen.
Pray: Lord. give us the gift of patience and the AH-HA of awaiting right now:
Well, if not now, then give us the pause of patience to listen and love
people today, as you continue to love us. with lots of patience!
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray for the encouragement and refreshment of pastors and church staff
in Syria who are exhausted by war and unrest.
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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