Day 11 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 11 Jan 2022 reflections
Day 11, 11 January 2022
1) Job 32 - 34
Job 32
Elihu Speaks: Job's Three Friends Rebuked
1 So these three men ceased answering Job,
because he was righteous in his own eyes.
2 Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite,
of the family of Ram, was aroused;
his wrath was aroused against Job because he justified himself rather than God.
3 His wrath was aroused also against his three friends
because they had found no answer and yet had condemned Job.
4 Now Elihu had waited until Job had spoken because they were older than he.
5 When Elihu saw that there was no answer
in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was aroused.
6 Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite answered:
"I am young,
and you are very old;
therefore I was afraid
and dared not show you my opinion.
7 I said, 'Age should speak,
and multitude of years should teach wisdom.'
8 But there is a spirit in man,
and the breath of the Almighty gives him understanding.
9 Great men are not always wise,
nor do the aged always understand judgment.
10 "Therefore I say,
'Listen to me; I will also declare my opinion.'
11 Indeed, I waited for your words;
I listened to your reasons,
while you searched out what to say.
12 Yes, I paid attention to you;
and surely none of you convinced Job
or answered his words.
13 Lest you say, 'We have found wisdom';
God will subdue him, not man.
14 Now he has not directed his words against me,
so I will not answer him with your speeches.
15 "They are amazed; they answer no more;
they cease speaking.
16 And I have waited,
(for they did not speak, but stood still and answered no more).
17 I said, 'I also will answer my part;
I too will show my opinion.'
18 For I am full of words;
the spirit within me compels me.
19 See, my belly is like wine that has no vent;
it is ready to burst like new wineskins.
20 I will speak, that I may be refreshed;
I will open my lips and answer.
21 Let me not, I pray, show partiality to anyone,
nor let me give flattering titles to man.
22 For I do not know how to give flattering titles;
in so doing my Maker would soon take me away.
Job 32
Elihu's Intrusion
1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous
in his own eyes.
2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite,
of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled,
because he justified himself rather than God.
3 Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled,
because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job.
4 Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he.
5 When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men,
then his wrath was kindled.
6 And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said,
I am young, and ye are very old;
Wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion.
7 I said, Days should speak,
And multitude of years should teach wisdom.
8 But there is a spirit in man:
And the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.
9 Great men are not always wise:
Neither do the aged understand judgment.
10 Therefore I said, Hearken to me;
I also will shew mine opinion.
11 Behold, I waited for your words;
I gave ear to your reasons,
Whilst ye searched out what to say.
12 Yea, I attended unto you,
And, behold, there was none of you that convinced Job,
Or that answered his words:
13 Lest ye should say, We have found out wisdom:
God thrusteth him down, not man.
14 Now he hath not directed his words against me:
Neither will I answer him with your speeches.
15 They were amazed, they answered no more:
They left off speaking.
16 When I had waited, (for they spake not,
But stood still, and answered no more;)
17 I said, I will answer also my part,
I also will shew mine opinion.
18 For I am full of matter,
The spirit within me constraineth me.
19 Behold, my belly is as wine which hath no vent;
It is ready to burst like new bottles.
20 I will speak, that I may be refreshed:
I will open my lips and answer.
21 Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person,
Neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
22 For I know not to give flattering titles;
In so doing my Maker would soon take me away.
(Please be resectful towards your elders)
Job 33
Elihu Addresses Job
1 "Therefore, Job, I pray, hear my speeches,
and listen to all my words.
2 Behold, now I have opened my mouth;
my tongue has spoken in my mouth.
3 My words will be from the uprightness of my heart,
and my lips will utter knowledge clearly.
4 The Spirit of God has made me,
and the breath of the Almighty has given me life.
5 If you can answer me,
set your words in order before me; stand up.
6 Surely I am before God like you;
I also am formed out of the clay.
7 Indeed, no dread of me will make you afraid,
nor will my hand be heavy upon you.
8 "Surely you have spoken in my hearing,
and I have heard the sound of your words, saying,
9 'I am clean, without transgression;
I am innocent, nor is there iniquity in me.
10 Behold, He finds occasions against me,
He counts me for His enemy;
11 He puts my feet in the stocks,
He watches all my paths.'
12 "Look, in this you are not just.
I will answer you, that God is greater than man.
13 Why do you strive against Him?
For He does not give an accounting for any of His words.
14 For God speaks once, yes twice,
yet man does not perceive it.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night,
when deep sleep falls upon men,
in slumber on their beds,
16 then He opens the ears of men,
and seals their instruction,
17 that He might turn aside man from his purpose,
and conceal pride from man.
18 He keeps back his soul from the pit,
and his life from perishing by the sword.
19 "He is also chastened with pain on his bed,
and with strong pain in many of his bones,
20 so that his life abhors bread,
and his soul dainty food.
21 His flesh is consumed away that it cannot be seen,
and his bones that were not seen stick out.
22 Yes, his soul draws near to the grave,
and his life to the executioners.
23 If there is a messenger for him,
an interpreter, one among a thousand,
to show to man what is right for him,
24 then He is gracious to him, and says,
'Deliver him from going down to the pit;
I have found a ransom.'
25 His flesh will be fresher than a child's;
he will return to the days of his youth;
26 he will pray to God, and He will be favorable unto him,
and he will see His face with joy,
for He will render unto man His righteousness.
27 Then he looks at men and says,
'I have sinned and perverted what was right,
and it did not profit me.'
28 He will deliver his soul from going down to the pit,
and his life will see the light.
29 "Behold, God works all these things,
twice, three times with man,
30 to bring back his soul from the pit,
to be enlightened with the light of the living.
31 "Pay attention, Job, listen to me;
hold your peace, and I will speak.
32 If you have anything to say, answer me;
speak, for I desire to justify you.
33 If not, listen to me; hold your peace,
and I will teach you wisdom."
Job 33
1 Wherefore, Job, I pray thee, hear my speeches,
And hearken to all my words.
2 Behold, now I have opened my mouth,
My tongue hath spoken in my mouth.
3 My words shall be of the uprightness of my heart:
And my lips shall utter knowledge clearly.
4 The Spirit of God hath made me,
And the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.
5 If thou canst answer me,
Set thy words in order before me, stand up.
6 Behold, I am according to thy wish in God's stead:
I also am formed out of the clay.
7 Behold, my terror shall not make thee afraid,
Neither shall my hand be heavy upon thee.
8 Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing,
And I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,
9 I am clean without transgression,
I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me.
10 Behold, he findeth occasions against me,
He counteth me for his enemy,
11 He putteth my feet in the stocks,
He marketh all my paths.
12 Behold, in this thou art not just: I will answer thee,
that God is greater than man.
13 Why dost thou strive against him?
For he giveth not account of any of his matters.
14 For God speaketh once,
Yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night,
When deep sleep falleth upon men,
In slumberings upon the bed;
16 Then he openeth the ears of men,
And sealeth their instruction,
17 That he may withdraw man from his purpose,
And hide pride from man.
18 He keepeth back his soul from the pit,
And his life from perishing by the sword.
19 He is chastened also with pain upon his bed,
And the multitude of his bones with strong pain:
20 So that his life abhorreth bread,
And his soul dainty meat.
21 His flesh is consumed away, that it cannot be seen;
And his bones that were not seen stick out.
22 Yea, his soul draweth near unto the grave,
And his life to the destroyers.
23 If there be a messenger with him,
An interpreter, one among a thousand,
To shew unto man his uprightness:
24 Then he is gracious unto him, and saith,
Deliver him from going down to the pit:
I have found a ransom.
25 His flesh shall be fresher than a child's:
He shall return to the days of his youth:
26 He shall pray unto God, and he will be favourable unto him:
And he shall see his face with joy:
For he will render unto man his righteousness.
27 He looketh upon men, and if any say,
I have sinned, and perverted that which was right,
And it profited me not;
28 He will deliver his soul from going into the pit,
And his life shall see the light.
29 Lo, all these things worketh God
Oftentimes with man,
30 To bring back his soul from the pit,
To be enlightened with the light of the living.
31 Mark well, O Job, hearken unto me:
Hold thy peace, and I will speak.
32 If thou hast any thing to say, answer me:
Speak, for I desire to justify thee.
33 If not, hearken unto me:
Hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom.
Job 34
Elihu Proclaims God's Justice
1 Furthermore Elihu answered and said:
2 "Hear my words, O you wise men;
and give ear unto me, you that have knowledge.
3 For the ear tests words,
as the mouth tastes food.
4 Let us choose justice for ourselves;
let us know among ourselves what is good.
5 "For Job has said, 'I am righteous,
but God has taken away my judgment.
6 Should I lie concerning my right?
My wound is incurable, though I am without transgression.'
7 What man is like Job,
who drinks scorn like water,
8 who goes in company with the workers of iniquity
and walks with wicked men?
9 For he has said, 'It profits a man nothing
that he should delight himself in God.'
10 "Therefore listen to me, you men of understanding:
Far be it from God that He should do wickedness,
and from the Almighty that He should commit iniquity.
11 He will repay a man for his work,
and cause every man to find what is according to his ways.
12 Yes, surely God will not do wickedly,
nor will the Almighty pervert judgment.
13 Who has given Him charge over the earth?
Or who has set in order the whole world?
14 If He sets His heart on man,
if He gathers unto Himself His Spirit and His breath,
15 all flesh will perish together,
and man will turn again to dust.
16 "If now you have understanding, hear this;
listen to the voice of my words:
17 Should he who hates justice govern?
And will you condemn Him who is most just?
18 Is it fitting to say to a king, 'You are wicked'?
And to princes, 'You are ungodly'?
19 Yet He is not partial to princes,
nor does He regard the rich more than the poor.
For they all are the work of His hands.
20 In a moment they will die,
and the people will be troubled at midnight and pass away,
and the mighty will be taken away without a hand.
21 "For His eyes are upon the ways of man,
and He sees all his goings.
22 There is no darkness nor shadow of death
where the workers of iniquity may hide themselves.
23 For He will not lay upon man more than right,
that he should enter into judgment with God.
24 He will break in pieces mighty men without number,
and set others in their place.
25 Therefore He knows their works,
and He overturns them in the night
so that they are destroyed.
26 He strikes them as wicked men
in the open sight of others,
27 because they turned back from Him
and would not consider any of His ways,
28 so that they cause the cry of the poor to come unto Him;
and He hears the cry of the afflicted.
29 When He gives quietness, who then can make trouble?
And when He hides His face, who then can behold Him,
whether it is done against a nation or against a man only?
30 That the hypocrite should not reign,
lest the people be ensnared.
31 "Should anyone say to God,
'I have borne chastisement, I will offend no more;
32 teach me what I do not see;
if I have done iniquity, I will do no more'?
33 Should it be according to your mind?
He will repay it, whether you refuse or whether you choose,
and not I; therefore speak what you know.
34 "Let men of understanding say to me,
wise men who listen to me:
35 'Job has spoken without knowledge,
and his words were without wisdom.'
36 My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end,
because he answers like wicked men.
37 For he adds rebellion unto his sin;
he claps his hands among us,
and multiplies his words against God."
Job 34
1 Furthermore Elihu answered and said,
2 Hear my words, O ye wise men;
And give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge.
3 For the ear trieth words,
As the mouth tasteth meat.
4 Let us choose to us judgment:
Let us know among ourselves what is good.
5 For Job hath said, I am righteous:
And God hath taken away my judgment.
6 Should I lie against my right?
My wound is incurable without transgression.
7 What man is like Job,
Who drinketh up scorning like water?
8 Which goeth in company with the workers of iniquity,
And walketh with wicked men.
9 For he hath said, It profiteth a man nothing
That he should delight himself with God.
10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding:
Far be it from God, that he should do wickedness;
And from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.
11 For the work of a man shall he render unto him,
And cause every man to find according to his ways.
12 Yea, surely God will not do wickedly,
Neither will the Almighty pervert judgment.
13 Who hath given him a charge over the earth?
Or who hath disposed the whole world?
14 If he set his heart upon man,
If he gather unto himself his spirit and his breath;
15 All flesh shall perish together,
And man shall turn again unto dust.
16 If now thou hast understanding, hear this:
Hearken to the voice of my words.
17 Shall even he that hateth right govern?
And wilt thou condemn him that is most just?
18 Is it fit to say to a king, Thou art wicked?
and to princes, Ye are ungodly?
19 How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes,
Nor regardeth the rich more than the poor?
For they all are the work of his hands.
20 In a moment shall they die,
And the people shall be troubled at midnight, and pass away:
And the mighty shall be taken away without hand.
21 For his eyes are upon the ways of man,
And he seeth all his goings.
22 There is no darkness, nor shadow of death,
Where the workers of iniquity may hide themselves.
23 For he will not lay upon man more than right;
That he should enter into judgment with God.
24 He shall break in pieces mighty men without number,
And set others in their stead.
25 Therefore he knoweth their works,
And he overturneth them in the night, so that they are destroyed.
26 He striketh them as wicked men
In the open sight of others;
27 Because they turned back from him,
And would not consider any of his ways:
28 So that they cause the cry of the poor to come unto him,
And he heareth the cry of the afflicted.
29 When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?
And when he hideth his face, who then can behold him?
Whether it be done against a nation, or against a man only:
30 That the hypocrite reign not,
Lest the people be ensnared.
31 Surely it is meet to be said unto God,
I have borne chastisement, I will not offend any more:
32 That which I see not teach thou me:
If I have done iniquity, I will do no more.
33 Should it be according to thy mind?
He will recompense it, whether thou refuse,
Or whether thou choose; and not I:
Therefore speak what thou knowest.
34 Let men of understanding tell me,
And let a wise man hearken unto me.
35 Job hath spoken without knowledge,
And his words were without wisdom.
36 My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end
Because of his answers for wicked men.
37 For he addeth rebellion unto his sin,
He clappeth his hands among us,
And multiplieth his words against God.
(But show some more respect to your elders)
2) Our Daily Bread for 11 January 2022
https://odb.org/CA/2022/01/11/escape-or-peace
entitled Escape or Peace?
John 16:25-33
25 (Jn 16:2) "I have told you these things in proverbs. But the time is coming
when I will no longer speak to you in proverbs, for I will speak to you
plainly about the Father.
26 On that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying to you that
I shall ask the Father on your behalf.
27 (Jn 14:21; 14:23) For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved
Me, and have believed that I came from God.
28 (Jn 13:3; 8:14) I came from the Father and have come into the world.
As I said, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father."
29 (Jn 16:25) His disciples said to Him, "Yes! Now You are speaking plainly
and with no figure of speech.
30 (Jn 21:17) Now we know that You know everything and do not need anyone
to question You. By this we believe that You came from God."
31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe?
32 (Mt 26:31; Jn 8:29) Listen, the hour is coming. Yes, it has now come that
you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave Me alone.
Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with Me.
33 (Jn 14:27; 1Jn 4:4; Jn 14:1) "I have told you these things so that in Me
you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But be of good
cheer. I have overcome the world."
25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh,
when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you
plainly of the Father.
26 At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you,
that I will pray the Father for you:
27 for the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me,
and have believed that I came out from God.
28 I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world:
again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.
29 His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly,
and speakest no proverb.
30 Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that
any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God.
31 Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?
32 Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered,
every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone,
because the Father is with me.
33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace.
In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer;
I have overcome the world.
“ESCAPE.” The billboard shouts the benefits of having a hot tub installed.
It gets my attention-and gets me thinking. My wife and I have talked about
getting a hot tub . . . someday. It'd be like a vacation in our backyard!
Except for the cleaning. And the electric bill. And . . . suddenly,
the hoped-for escape starts to sound like something I might need escape from.
Still, that word entices so effectively because it promises something we want:
Relief. Comfort. Security. Escape. It's something our culture tempts
and teases us with in many ways. Now, there's nothing wrong with resting
or a getaway to someplace beautiful. But there's a difference between
escaping life's hardships and trusting God with them.
In John 16, Jesus tells His disciples that the next chapter of their lives
will test their faith. "In this world you will have trouble," He summarizes
at the end. And then He adds this promise, "But be of good
cheer. I have overcome the world." (v. 33). Jesus didn't want His disciples
to cave in to despair. Instead, He invited them to trust Him, to know the
rest He provides: "I have told you these things so that in Me
you may have peace'" he said, (v. 33).
Jesus doesn't promise us a pain-free life. But He does promise that as we
trust and rest in Him, we can experience a peace that's deeper and more
satisfying than any escape the world tries to sell us.
By: Adam Holz
Reflect & Pray
How have you seen invitations to escape in the world around you recently?
How well do you think they might deliver on those promises?
Father, help me to trust You so that I may find peace and rest in You.
Read
Finding Peace in a Troubled World .
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 3 - Let the Word Dwell in You
Col 3:16
16 (Eph 5:19; Col 1:28; Ro 10:17) Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing
one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing
one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Every day, whether we are aware of it or not, our minds are
bombarded by 20th Century values: "Dress for success!" "Get ahead!"
"You deserve a break today ...." Television, radio, and the incessant
voices that surround us distract our attention and keep us from
focusing on what is really important in our lives.
Paul's instruction to the Colossian Church brings us back to God's
value system: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly."
When we give attention to the Word of God, we put ourselves in a position
to hear a higher truth the clamour of immediate demands
and the expectations of the world around us. We can experience peace
in the midst of struggle and rest in a restless environment.
God's Word is a powerful force for good in our lives - not merely
an attractive philosophy, but true power to overcome the pressures
of daily life.
Dwelling on the Word of God, and letting it indwell us, takes many forms.
Scripture memory, music, meditation, talking with others about the
goodness of God all help us keep our attention focused on Christ rather
than on the values of the world around us.
We can choose to listen to Christian radio or tapes. We can take time
daily for quiet meditation on his Word. We can commit the Word to memory
and draw on its power during the day. And as we listen to the voice
of the Spirit rather than the noise around us, we can enter into
his peace and live in communion with him.
Application
a) What pressures do I face that tend to distract me from the reality
of Christ's presence?
b) How can I "let the word of Christ dwell richly" in me, so that I
an regain my focus on him?
c) What practical changes can I make in my life to help me focus
my attention on Jesus and his word?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Mark 4:20-25
20 (Mk 4:8; Jn 15:4–5) "Still others are seed sown on good ground,
those who hear the word, and receive it, and bear fruit:
thirty, sixty, or a hundred times as much."
A Light Under a Basket
Lk 8:16-18
21 (Mt 5:15; Lk 8:16) He said to them, "Is a candle brought to be put
under a basket or under a bed and not to be set on a candlestick?
22 (Lk 8:17) For there is nothing hidden except to be revealed;
neither is anything kept secret except to be proclaimed.
23 (Mk 4:9; Mt 11:15)If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear."
24 (Mt 7:2) He said to them, "Take heed what you hear.
The measure you give will be measured for you,
and to you who hear will more be given.
25 (Mt 13:12; Lk 8:18) For to him who has will more be given.
And from him who has not will be taken, even what he has."
20 And these are they which are sown on good ground;
such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit,
some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
21 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put
under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?
22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested;
neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
24 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete,
it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.
25 For he that hath, to him shall be given:
and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Help in Times of Temptation
Hebrews 4:14-16
Jesus the Great High Priest
14 (Heb 6:20; 1:2-3) Since then we have a great High Priest
Who has passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God,
let us hold firmly to our confession.
15 (2Co 5:21; Jn 8:46) For we do not have a High Priest
who cannot sympathise with our weaknesses,
but One who was in every sense tempted like we are, yet without sin.
16 (Eph 3:12; Php 4:6-7) Let us then come with confidence
to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy
and find grace to help in time of need.
14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest,
that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God,
let us hold fast our profession.
15 For we have not an high priest
which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities;
but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
16 Let us therefore come boldly
unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy,
and find grace to help in time of need.
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 2021 edition?)
2015 Population - 4631302 Muslims about 136493
British Columbia - British Columbia's Muslim Population is growing constantly.
Every week there are immigrants ad refugees coming to the Greater Vancouver
and surrounding areas. There are also significant Muslim student populations
in our colleges and universities. Some have even suggested that there are
between 4000 and 5000 Saudi Arabian students alone, without counting all
other nationalities.
Greater Vancouver has an estimated 180000 Muslims, and there are significant
and growing communities in the Fraser Valley such as in Langley, Abbotsford,
Chilliwack, etc. Including these communities the total population for this
region is about 200000.
Of these, there are an estimated 100000 Iranians, 35000 Arabs, 15000 Ismailis,
more than 20000 Afghanis, 10000 South Asian Muslims, 3000 Turks, and small
numbers from other countries such as Sudan, Somalia, Albania, etc.
We are seeing some Muslims coming to Christ and we rejoice in that.
A few people also have some ongoing ministry to Muslims in the area,
for which we also rejoice. Let us agree in that
- the church will catch a vision to pray,
and a burden to train outreach to Muslims
- the church will press in to participate in effective
discipleship of these new Muslim background believers.
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 "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.
18 Even on My menservants and maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:
blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.
21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]
Footnotes
Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.
- 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, ...) .
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
11th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's name to be glorified in your life, home, neighbourhood,
city or community, and in Canada.
(
Ps 86:12
12 I will give You thanks, O Lord my God, with all my heart,
and I will glorify Your name forever.
12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart:
And I will glorify thy name for evermore.
John 12:28
28 "Father, glorify Your name."
Then a voice came from heaven, saying,
"I have glorified it, and will glorify it again."
28 Father, glorify thy name.
Then came there a voice from heaven, saying,
I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
)
b) Pray for the province of New Brunswick
I) Pray for the leaders of New Brunswick, that God's Spirit would influence
then to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of
God our Savior, 4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved
and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
II) Pray for the churches of the province,
that they would be lighthouses beaming forth
the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding
the Hope Campaign and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus
prayandfast.ca
Day 9 of 21
REVIVAL
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 (2Ch 6:27; 6:37-39) if My people, who are called by My name, will humble
themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then
I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
14 if my people, which are called by my name, shall humble
themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then
will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Psalm 23:3
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
3 He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalm 51:10
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God;
And renew a right spirit within me.
Acts 3:19-20
19 (Ac 2:38; Ps 51:9) Therefore repent and be converted, that your sins may
be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence
of the Lord,
20 and that He may send the One who previously was preached to you, Jesus
Christ,
19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins
may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence
of the Lord;
20 and he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
DEVOTION:
Some of you may be asking, 'What is a revival?
What would it look like? Is that what we need?'
Revival refers to a spiritual reawakening from a state of dormancy
or stagnation in the life of a believer. Revival invigorates
and sometimes deepens a believer's faith, opening his or her eyes
to the truth in a fresh, new way. With revival being a great outpouring
of the Holy Spirit upon believers often the evidence is changed lives.
Revival can also see a number of unbelievers crossing the line of
faith into relationship with Jesus.
Great movements toward righteousness, evangelism,
and social justice can occur through revival.
As we learned, prayer and fasting is defined as voluntarily going
without food in order to focus on prayer and fellowship with God.
Perhaps you have fasted for the day, a meal,
or from some activity or treat.
Let’s try fasting while praying 2 Chronicles 7:14. Let's believe God
to do great and amazing things in our homes, city, province and country.
Remember that it is when these two activities are combined
and dedicated to God's glory that they reach their full effectiveness.
REFLECTION:
Am I ready to experience a true move of God in revival?
Do I desire to see God's power touch this world in a tremendous way?
PRAYER:
Lord, we pray that you bring revival in our hearts and church. God, we want
to see a dynamic spiritual movement that will impact our homes, our
communities, our schools, our neighbors, our nation and our world
for the glory of God!
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to speak wise words from the Lord.
Pray to the Lord
"Father, help me to trust You so that I may find peace and rest in You."
Pray to the Lord and Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly.
Pray to the Lord and pray for you witness to shine.
Pray to the Lord and remember he emphasises with us.
Pray the church in BC will catch a vision to pray,
and a burden to train outreach to Muslims
Pray the church in BC will press in to participate in effective
discipleship of these new Muslim background believers.
Pray for God's name to be glorified in your life, home, neighbourhood,
city or community, and in Canada.
Pray that the supreme Leader of Iran Ali Hoseini-Khamenei will
have a revelation of Christ.
Lord, we pray that you bring revival in our hearts and church. God, we want
to see a dynamic spiritual movement that will impact our homes, our
communities, our schools, our neighbors, our nation and our world
for the glory of God!
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen
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) Job 32 - 34
Job 32
Elihu Speaks: Job's Three Friends Rebuked
1 So these three men ceased answering Job,
because he was righteous in his own eyes.
2 Then the wrath of Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite,
of the family of Ram, was aroused;
his wrath was aroused against Job because he justified himself rather than God.
3 His wrath was aroused also against his three friends
because they had found no answer and yet had condemned Job.
4 Now Elihu had waited until Job had spoken because they were older than he.
5 When Elihu saw that there was no answer
in the mouth of these three men, then his wrath was aroused.
6 Elihu the son of Barakel the Buzite answered:
"I am young,
and you are very old;
therefore I was afraid
and dared not show you my opinion.
7 I said, 'Age should speak,
and multitude of years should teach wisdom.'
8 But there is a spirit in man,
and the breath of the Almighty gives him understanding.
9 Great men are not always wise,
nor do the aged always understand judgment.
10 "Therefore I say,
'Listen to me; I will also declare my opinion.'
11 Indeed, I waited for your words;
I listened to your reasons,
while you searched out what to say.
12 Yes, I paid attention to you;
and surely none of you convinced Job
or answered his words.
13 Lest you say, 'We have found wisdom';
God will subdue him, not man.
14 Now he has not directed his words against me,
so I will not answer him with your speeches.
15 "They are amazed; they answer no more;
they cease speaking.
16 And I have waited,
(for they did not speak, but stood still and answered no more).
17 I said, 'I also will answer my part;
I too will show my opinion.'
18 For I am full of words;
the spirit within me compels me.
19 See, my belly is like wine that has no vent;
it is ready to burst like new wineskins.
20 I will speak, that I may be refreshed;
I will open my lips and answer.
21 Let me not, I pray, show partiality to anyone,
nor let me give flattering titles to man.
22 For I do not know how to give flattering titles;
in so doing my Maker would soon take me away.
Job 32
Elihu's Intrusion
1 So these three men ceased to answer Job, because he was righteous
in his own eyes.
2 Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite,
of the kindred of Ram: against Job was his wrath kindled,
because he justified himself rather than God.
3 Also against his three friends was his wrath kindled,
because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job.
4 Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because they were elder than he.
5 When Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of these three men,
then his wrath was kindled.
6 And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said,
I am young, and ye are very old;
Wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion.
7 I said, Days should speak,
And multitude of years should teach wisdom.
8 But there is a spirit in man:
And the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.
9 Great men are not always wise:
Neither do the aged understand judgment.
10 Therefore I said, Hearken to me;
I also will shew mine opinion.
11 Behold, I waited for your words;
I gave ear to your reasons,
Whilst ye searched out what to say.
12 Yea, I attended unto you,
And, behold, there was none of you that convinced Job,
Or that answered his words:
13 Lest ye should say, We have found out wisdom:
God thrusteth him down, not man.
14 Now he hath not directed his words against me:
Neither will I answer him with your speeches.
15 They were amazed, they answered no more:
They left off speaking.
16 When I had waited, (for they spake not,
But stood still, and answered no more;)
17 I said, I will answer also my part,
I also will shew mine opinion.
18 For I am full of matter,
The spirit within me constraineth me.
19 Behold, my belly is as wine which hath no vent;
It is ready to burst like new bottles.
20 I will speak, that I may be refreshed:
I will open my lips and answer.
21 Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person,
Neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
22 For I know not to give flattering titles;
In so doing my Maker would soon take me away.
(Please be resectful towards your elders)
Job 33
Elihu Addresses Job
1 "Therefore, Job, I pray, hear my speeches,
and listen to all my words.
2 Behold, now I have opened my mouth;
my tongue has spoken in my mouth.
3 My words will be from the uprightness of my heart,
and my lips will utter knowledge clearly.
4 The Spirit of God has made me,
and the breath of the Almighty has given me life.
5 If you can answer me,
set your words in order before me; stand up.
6 Surely I am before God like you;
I also am formed out of the clay.
7 Indeed, no dread of me will make you afraid,
nor will my hand be heavy upon you.
8 "Surely you have spoken in my hearing,
and I have heard the sound of your words, saying,
9 'I am clean, without transgression;
I am innocent, nor is there iniquity in me.
10 Behold, He finds occasions against me,
He counts me for His enemy;
11 He puts my feet in the stocks,
He watches all my paths.'
12 "Look, in this you are not just.
I will answer you, that God is greater than man.
13 Why do you strive against Him?
For He does not give an accounting for any of His words.
14 For God speaks once, yes twice,
yet man does not perceive it.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night,
when deep sleep falls upon men,
in slumber on their beds,
16 then He opens the ears of men,
and seals their instruction,
17 that He might turn aside man from his purpose,
and conceal pride from man.
18 He keeps back his soul from the pit,
and his life from perishing by the sword.
19 "He is also chastened with pain on his bed,
and with strong pain in many of his bones,
20 so that his life abhors bread,
and his soul dainty food.
21 His flesh is consumed away that it cannot be seen,
and his bones that were not seen stick out.
22 Yes, his soul draws near to the grave,
and his life to the executioners.
23 If there is a messenger for him,
an interpreter, one among a thousand,
to show to man what is right for him,
24 then He is gracious to him, and says,
'Deliver him from going down to the pit;
I have found a ransom.'
25 His flesh will be fresher than a child's;
he will return to the days of his youth;
26 he will pray to God, and He will be favorable unto him,
and he will see His face with joy,
for He will render unto man His righteousness.
27 Then he looks at men and says,
'I have sinned and perverted what was right,
and it did not profit me.'
28 He will deliver his soul from going down to the pit,
and his life will see the light.
29 "Behold, God works all these things,
twice, three times with man,
30 to bring back his soul from the pit,
to be enlightened with the light of the living.
31 "Pay attention, Job, listen to me;
hold your peace, and I will speak.
32 If you have anything to say, answer me;
speak, for I desire to justify you.
33 If not, listen to me; hold your peace,
and I will teach you wisdom."
Job 33
1 Wherefore, Job, I pray thee, hear my speeches,
And hearken to all my words.
2 Behold, now I have opened my mouth,
My tongue hath spoken in my mouth.
3 My words shall be of the uprightness of my heart:
And my lips shall utter knowledge clearly.
4 The Spirit of God hath made me,
And the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.
5 If thou canst answer me,
Set thy words in order before me, stand up.
6 Behold, I am according to thy wish in God's stead:
I also am formed out of the clay.
7 Behold, my terror shall not make thee afraid,
Neither shall my hand be heavy upon thee.
8 Surely thou hast spoken in mine hearing,
And I have heard the voice of thy words, saying,
9 I am clean without transgression,
I am innocent; neither is there iniquity in me.
10 Behold, he findeth occasions against me,
He counteth me for his enemy,
11 He putteth my feet in the stocks,
He marketh all my paths.
12 Behold, in this thou art not just: I will answer thee,
that God is greater than man.
13 Why dost thou strive against him?
For he giveth not account of any of his matters.
14 For God speaketh once,
Yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not.
15 In a dream, in a vision of the night,
When deep sleep falleth upon men,
In slumberings upon the bed;
16 Then he openeth the ears of men,
And sealeth their instruction,
17 That he may withdraw man from his purpose,
And hide pride from man.
18 He keepeth back his soul from the pit,
And his life from perishing by the sword.
19 He is chastened also with pain upon his bed,
And the multitude of his bones with strong pain:
20 So that his life abhorreth bread,
And his soul dainty meat.
21 His flesh is consumed away, that it cannot be seen;
And his bones that were not seen stick out.
22 Yea, his soul draweth near unto the grave,
And his life to the destroyers.
23 If there be a messenger with him,
An interpreter, one among a thousand,
To shew unto man his uprightness:
24 Then he is gracious unto him, and saith,
Deliver him from going down to the pit:
I have found a ransom.
25 His flesh shall be fresher than a child's:
He shall return to the days of his youth:
26 He shall pray unto God, and he will be favourable unto him:
And he shall see his face with joy:
For he will render unto man his righteousness.
27 He looketh upon men, and if any say,
I have sinned, and perverted that which was right,
And it profited me not;
28 He will deliver his soul from going into the pit,
And his life shall see the light.
29 Lo, all these things worketh God
Oftentimes with man,
30 To bring back his soul from the pit,
To be enlightened with the light of the living.
31 Mark well, O Job, hearken unto me:
Hold thy peace, and I will speak.
32 If thou hast any thing to say, answer me:
Speak, for I desire to justify thee.
33 If not, hearken unto me:
Hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom.
Job 34
Elihu Proclaims God's Justice
1 Furthermore Elihu answered and said:
2 "Hear my words, O you wise men;
and give ear unto me, you that have knowledge.
3 For the ear tests words,
as the mouth tastes food.
4 Let us choose justice for ourselves;
let us know among ourselves what is good.
5 "For Job has said, 'I am righteous,
but God has taken away my judgment.
6 Should I lie concerning my right?
My wound is incurable, though I am without transgression.'
7 What man is like Job,
who drinks scorn like water,
8 who goes in company with the workers of iniquity
and walks with wicked men?
9 For he has said, 'It profits a man nothing
that he should delight himself in God.'
10 "Therefore listen to me, you men of understanding:
Far be it from God that He should do wickedness,
and from the Almighty that He should commit iniquity.
11 He will repay a man for his work,
and cause every man to find what is according to his ways.
12 Yes, surely God will not do wickedly,
nor will the Almighty pervert judgment.
13 Who has given Him charge over the earth?
Or who has set in order the whole world?
14 If He sets His heart on man,
if He gathers unto Himself His Spirit and His breath,
15 all flesh will perish together,
and man will turn again to dust.
16 "If now you have understanding, hear this;
listen to the voice of my words:
17 Should he who hates justice govern?
And will you condemn Him who is most just?
18 Is it fitting to say to a king, 'You are wicked'?
And to princes, 'You are ungodly'?
19 Yet He is not partial to princes,
nor does He regard the rich more than the poor.
For they all are the work of His hands.
20 In a moment they will die,
and the people will be troubled at midnight and pass away,
and the mighty will be taken away without a hand.
21 "For His eyes are upon the ways of man,
and He sees all his goings.
22 There is no darkness nor shadow of death
where the workers of iniquity may hide themselves.
23 For He will not lay upon man more than right,
that he should enter into judgment with God.
24 He will break in pieces mighty men without number,
and set others in their place.
25 Therefore He knows their works,
and He overturns them in the night
so that they are destroyed.
26 He strikes them as wicked men
in the open sight of others,
27 because they turned back from Him
and would not consider any of His ways,
28 so that they cause the cry of the poor to come unto Him;
and He hears the cry of the afflicted.
29 When He gives quietness, who then can make trouble?
And when He hides His face, who then can behold Him,
whether it is done against a nation or against a man only?
30 That the hypocrite should not reign,
lest the people be ensnared.
31 "Should anyone say to God,
'I have borne chastisement, I will offend no more;
32 teach me what I do not see;
if I have done iniquity, I will do no more'?
33 Should it be according to your mind?
He will repay it, whether you refuse or whether you choose,
and not I; therefore speak what you know.
34 "Let men of understanding say to me,
wise men who listen to me:
35 'Job has spoken without knowledge,
and his words were without wisdom.'
36 My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end,
because he answers like wicked men.
37 For he adds rebellion unto his sin;
he claps his hands among us,
and multiplies his words against God."
Job 34
1 Furthermore Elihu answered and said,
2 Hear my words, O ye wise men;
And give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge.
3 For the ear trieth words,
As the mouth tasteth meat.
4 Let us choose to us judgment:
Let us know among ourselves what is good.
5 For Job hath said, I am righteous:
And God hath taken away my judgment.
6 Should I lie against my right?
My wound is incurable without transgression.
7 What man is like Job,
Who drinketh up scorning like water?
8 Which goeth in company with the workers of iniquity,
And walketh with wicked men.
9 For he hath said, It profiteth a man nothing
That he should delight himself with God.
10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding:
Far be it from God, that he should do wickedness;
And from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.
11 For the work of a man shall he render unto him,
And cause every man to find according to his ways.
12 Yea, surely God will not do wickedly,
Neither will the Almighty pervert judgment.
13 Who hath given him a charge over the earth?
Or who hath disposed the whole world?
14 If he set his heart upon man,
If he gather unto himself his spirit and his breath;
15 All flesh shall perish together,
And man shall turn again unto dust.
16 If now thou hast understanding, hear this:
Hearken to the voice of my words.
17 Shall even he that hateth right govern?
And wilt thou condemn him that is most just?
18 Is it fit to say to a king, Thou art wicked?
and to princes, Ye are ungodly?
19 How much less to him that accepteth not the persons of princes,
Nor regardeth the rich more than the poor?
For they all are the work of his hands.
20 In a moment shall they die,
And the people shall be troubled at midnight, and pass away:
And the mighty shall be taken away without hand.
21 For his eyes are upon the ways of man,
And he seeth all his goings.
22 There is no darkness, nor shadow of death,
Where the workers of iniquity may hide themselves.
23 For he will not lay upon man more than right;
That he should enter into judgment with God.
24 He shall break in pieces mighty men without number,
And set others in their stead.
25 Therefore he knoweth their works,
And he overturneth them in the night, so that they are destroyed.
26 He striketh them as wicked men
In the open sight of others;
27 Because they turned back from him,
And would not consider any of his ways:
28 So that they cause the cry of the poor to come unto him,
And he heareth the cry of the afflicted.
29 When he giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?
And when he hideth his face, who then can behold him?
Whether it be done against a nation, or against a man only:
30 That the hypocrite reign not,
Lest the people be ensnared.
31 Surely it is meet to be said unto God,
I have borne chastisement, I will not offend any more:
32 That which I see not teach thou me:
If I have done iniquity, I will do no more.
33 Should it be according to thy mind?
He will recompense it, whether thou refuse,
Or whether thou choose; and not I:
Therefore speak what thou knowest.
34 Let men of understanding tell me,
And let a wise man hearken unto me.
35 Job hath spoken without knowledge,
And his words were without wisdom.
36 My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end
Because of his answers for wicked men.
37 For he addeth rebellion unto his sin,
He clappeth his hands among us,
And multiplieth his words against God.
(But show some more respect to your elders)
2) Our Daily Bread for 11 January 2022
https://odb.org/CA/2022/01/11/escape-or-peace
entitled Escape or Peace?
John 16:25-33
25 (Jn 16:2) "I have told you these things in proverbs. But the time is coming
when I will no longer speak to you in proverbs, for I will speak to you
plainly about the Father.
26 On that day you will ask in My name. I am not saying to you that
I shall ask the Father on your behalf.
27 (Jn 14:21; 14:23) For the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved
Me, and have believed that I came from God.
28 (Jn 13:3; 8:14) I came from the Father and have come into the world.
As I said, I am leaving the world and am going to the Father."
29 (Jn 16:25) His disciples said to Him, "Yes! Now You are speaking plainly
and with no figure of speech.
30 (Jn 21:17) Now we know that You know everything and do not need anyone
to question You. By this we believe that You came from God."
31 Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe?
32 (Mt 26:31; Jn 8:29) Listen, the hour is coming. Yes, it has now come that
you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave Me alone.
Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with Me.
33 (Jn 14:27; 1Jn 4:4; Jn 14:1) "I have told you these things so that in Me
you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But be of good
cheer. I have overcome the world."
25 These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh,
when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you
plainly of the Father.
26 At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you,
that I will pray the Father for you:
27 for the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me,
and have believed that I came out from God.
28 I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world:
again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.
29 His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly,
and speakest no proverb.
30 Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that
any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God.
31 Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?
32 Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered,
every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone,
because the Father is with me.
33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace.
In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer;
I have overcome the world.
“ESCAPE.” The billboard shouts the benefits of having a hot tub installed.
It gets my attention-and gets me thinking. My wife and I have talked about
getting a hot tub . . . someday. It'd be like a vacation in our backyard!
Except for the cleaning. And the electric bill. And . . . suddenly,
the hoped-for escape starts to sound like something I might need escape from.
Still, that word entices so effectively because it promises something we want:
Relief. Comfort. Security. Escape. It's something our culture tempts
and teases us with in many ways. Now, there's nothing wrong with resting
or a getaway to someplace beautiful. But there's a difference between
escaping life's hardships and trusting God with them.
In John 16, Jesus tells His disciples that the next chapter of their lives
will test their faith. "In this world you will have trouble," He summarizes
at the end. And then He adds this promise, "But be of good
cheer. I have overcome the world." (v. 33). Jesus didn't want His disciples
to cave in to despair. Instead, He invited them to trust Him, to know the
rest He provides: "I have told you these things so that in Me
you may have peace'" he said, (v. 33).
Jesus doesn't promise us a pain-free life. But He does promise that as we
trust and rest in Him, we can experience a peace that's deeper and more
satisfying than any escape the world tries to sell us.
By: Adam Holz
Reflect & Pray
How have you seen invitations to escape in the world around you recently?
How well do you think they might deliver on those promises?
Father, help me to trust You so that I may find peace and rest in You.
Read
Finding Peace in a Troubled World .
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 3 - Let the Word Dwell in You
Col 3:16
16 (Eph 5:19; Col 1:28; Ro 10:17) Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing
one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing
one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Every day, whether we are aware of it or not, our minds are
bombarded by 20th Century values: "Dress for success!" "Get ahead!"
"You deserve a break today ...." Television, radio, and the incessant
voices that surround us distract our attention and keep us from
focusing on what is really important in our lives.
Paul's instruction to the Colossian Church brings us back to God's
value system: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly."
When we give attention to the Word of God, we put ourselves in a position
to hear a higher truth the clamour of immediate demands
and the expectations of the world around us. We can experience peace
in the midst of struggle and rest in a restless environment.
God's Word is a powerful force for good in our lives - not merely
an attractive philosophy, but true power to overcome the pressures
of daily life.
Dwelling on the Word of God, and letting it indwell us, takes many forms.
Scripture memory, music, meditation, talking with others about the
goodness of God all help us keep our attention focused on Christ rather
than on the values of the world around us.
We can choose to listen to Christian radio or tapes. We can take time
daily for quiet meditation on his Word. We can commit the Word to memory
and draw on its power during the day. And as we listen to the voice
of the Spirit rather than the noise around us, we can enter into
his peace and live in communion with him.
Application
a) What pressures do I face that tend to distract me from the reality
of Christ's presence?
b) How can I "let the word of Christ dwell richly" in me, so that I
an regain my focus on him?
c) What practical changes can I make in my life to help me focus
my attention on Jesus and his word?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Mark 4:20-25
20 (Mk 4:8; Jn 15:4–5) "Still others are seed sown on good ground,
those who hear the word, and receive it, and bear fruit:
thirty, sixty, or a hundred times as much."
A Light Under a Basket
Lk 8:16-18
21 (Mt 5:15; Lk 8:16) He said to them, "Is a candle brought to be put
under a basket or under a bed and not to be set on a candlestick?
22 (Lk 8:17) For there is nothing hidden except to be revealed;
neither is anything kept secret except to be proclaimed.
23 (Mk 4:9; Mt 11:15)If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear."
24 (Mt 7:2) He said to them, "Take heed what you hear.
The measure you give will be measured for you,
and to you who hear will more be given.
25 (Mt 13:12; Lk 8:18) For to him who has will more be given.
And from him who has not will be taken, even what he has."
20 And these are they which are sown on good ground;
such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit,
some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
21 And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put
under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?
22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested;
neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
23 If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
24 And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete,
it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.
25 For he that hath, to him shall be given:
and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Help in Times of Temptation
Hebrews 4:14-16
Jesus the Great High Priest
14 (Heb 6:20; 1:2-3) Since then we have a great High Priest
Who has passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God,
let us hold firmly to our confession.
15 (2Co 5:21; Jn 8:46) For we do not have a High Priest
who cannot sympathise with our weaknesses,
but One who was in every sense tempted like we are, yet without sin.
16 (Eph 3:12; Php 4:6-7) Let us then come with confidence
to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy
and find grace to help in time of need.
14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest,
that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God,
let us hold fast our profession.
15 For we have not an high priest
which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities;
but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
16 Let us therefore come boldly
unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy,
and find grace to help in time of need.
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 2021 edition?)
2015 Population - 4631302 Muslims about 136493
British Columbia - British Columbia's Muslim Population is growing constantly.
Every week there are immigrants ad refugees coming to the Greater Vancouver
and surrounding areas. There are also significant Muslim student populations
in our colleges and universities. Some have even suggested that there are
between 4000 and 5000 Saudi Arabian students alone, without counting all
other nationalities.
Greater Vancouver has an estimated 180000 Muslims, and there are significant
and growing communities in the Fraser Valley such as in Langley, Abbotsford,
Chilliwack, etc. Including these communities the total population for this
region is about 200000.
Of these, there are an estimated 100000 Iranians, 35000 Arabs, 15000 Ismailis,
more than 20000 Afghanis, 10000 South Asian Muslims, 3000 Turks, and small
numbers from other countries such as Sudan, Somalia, Albania, etc.
We are seeing some Muslims coming to Christ and we rejoice in that.
A few people also have some ongoing ministry to Muslims in the area,
for which we also rejoice. Let us agree in that
- the church will catch a vision to pray,
and a burden to train outreach to Muslims
- the church will press in to participate in effective
discipleship of these new Muslim background believers.
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 "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.
18 Even on My menservants and maidservants
I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.
19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:
blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.
21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]
Footnotes
Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.
- 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, ...) .
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
11th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's name to be glorified in your life, home, neighbourhood,
city or community, and in Canada.
(
Ps 86:12
12 I will give You thanks, O Lord my God, with all my heart,
and I will glorify Your name forever.
12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart:
And I will glorify thy name for evermore.
John 12:28
28 "Father, glorify Your name."
Then a voice came from heaven, saying,
"I have glorified it, and will glorify it again."
28 Father, glorify thy name.
Then came there a voice from heaven, saying,
I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
)
b) Pray for the province of New Brunswick
I) Pray for the leaders of New Brunswick, that God's Spirit would influence
then to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,
that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,
3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of
God our Savior, 4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved
and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
II) Pray for the churches of the province,
that they would be lighthouses beaming forth
the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding
the Hope Campaign and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus
prayandfast.caDay 9 of 21
REVIVAL
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 (2Ch 6:27; 6:37-39) if My people, who are called by My name, will humble
themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then
I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
14 if my people, which are called by my name, shall humble
themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then
will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
Psalm 23:3
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
3 He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psalm 51:10
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God;
And renew a right spirit within me.
Acts 3:19-20
19 (Ac 2:38; Ps 51:9) Therefore repent and be converted, that your sins may
be wiped away, that times of refreshing may come from the presence
of the Lord,
20 and that He may send the One who previously was preached to you, Jesus
Christ,
19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins
may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence
of the Lord;
20 and he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you:
DEVOTION:
Some of you may be asking, 'What is a revival?
What would it look like? Is that what we need?'
Revival refers to a spiritual reawakening from a state of dormancy
or stagnation in the life of a believer. Revival invigorates
and sometimes deepens a believer's faith, opening his or her eyes
to the truth in a fresh, new way. With revival being a great outpouring
of the Holy Spirit upon believers often the evidence is changed lives.
Revival can also see a number of unbelievers crossing the line of
faith into relationship with Jesus.
Great movements toward righteousness, evangelism,
and social justice can occur through revival.
As we learned, prayer and fasting is defined as voluntarily going
without food in order to focus on prayer and fellowship with God.
Perhaps you have fasted for the day, a meal,
or from some activity or treat.
Let’s try fasting while praying 2 Chronicles 7:14. Let's believe God
to do great and amazing things in our homes, city, province and country.
Remember that it is when these two activities are combined
and dedicated to God's glory that they reach their full effectiveness.
REFLECTION:
Am I ready to experience a true move of God in revival?
Do I desire to see God's power touch this world in a tremendous way?
PRAYER:
Lord, we pray that you bring revival in our hearts and church. God, we want
to see a dynamic spiritual movement that will impact our homes, our
communities, our schools, our neighbors, our nation and our world
for the glory of God!
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to speak wise words from the Lord.
Pray to the Lord
"Father, help me to trust You so that I may find peace and rest in You."
Pray to the Lord and Let the word of Christ dwell
in you richly.
Pray to the Lord and pray for you witness to shine.
Pray to the Lord and remember he emphasises with us.
Pray the church in BC will catch a vision to pray,
and a burden to train outreach to Muslims
Pray the church in BC will press in to participate in effective
discipleship of these new Muslim background believers.
Pray for God's name to be glorified in your life, home, neighbourhood,
city or community, and in Canada.
Pray that the supreme Leader of Iran Ali Hoseini-Khamenei will
have a revelation of Christ.
Lord, we pray that you bring revival in our hearts and church. God, we want
to see a dynamic spiritual movement that will impact our homes, our
communities, our schools, our neighbors, our nation and our world
for the glory of God!
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen
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.