Day 133 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 13 May 2022 reflections
Day 133, 13 May 2022
1)Psalm 131, 133, 138 - 141, 143
Psalms 131
A Song of Ascents. Of David.
1 Lord, my heart is not haughty,
my eyes are not raised too high.
I have not striven for enormities,
for things too wonderful for me.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I composed and quieted my desire,
like a child given suck by his mother;
like a child who sucks is my desire within me.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Let Israel hope in the Lord
from now and forever.
Psalms 131
[1] LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I
exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.
[2] Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of
his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
[3] Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever
PSALMS 133
A Song of Ascents. Of David.
1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
for brothers to dwell together in unity!
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2 ) It is like precious oil upon the head,
that runs down on the beard-
even Aaron's beard-
and going down to the collar of his garments;
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) as the dew of Hermon,
that descends upon the mountains of Zion,
for there the Lord has commanded the blessing,
even life forever.
Psalms 133
[1] Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together
in unity!
[2] It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the
beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;
[3] As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains
of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.
Psalms 138
A Psalm of David.
1 I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart;
before the gods I will sing Your praise.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I will worship toward Your holy temple,
and praise Your name
for Your lovingkindness and for Your truth;
for You have exalted Your word
above all Your name.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) On the day I called, You answered me,
and strengthened me in my soul.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O Lord,
for they have heard the words of Your mouth.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Indeed, they shall sing of the ways of the Lord,
for great is the glory of the Lord.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Though the Lord is exalted,
yet He has concern for the lowly,
but the proud one He knows from a distance.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
You will preserve me;
You stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemies,
and Your right hand saves me.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me;
Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever;
do not forsake the works of Your hands.
Psalms 138
[1] I will praise thee with my whole heart: before the gods will I sing
praise unto thee.
[2] I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy
lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all
thy name.
[3] In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with
strength in my soul.
[4] All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O LORD, when they hear the
words of thy mouth.
[5] Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the LORD: for great is the glory of
the LORD.
[6] Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the
proud he knoweth afar off.
[7] Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt
stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right
hand shall save me.
[8] The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD,
endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.
Psalms 139
For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.
1 O Lord, You have searched me
and known me.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) You know when I sit down and when I get up;
You understand my thought from far off.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) You search my path and my lying down
and are aware of all my ways.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) For there is not a word on my tongue,
but behold, O Lord, You know it fully.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You put Yourself behind and before me,
and keep Your hand on me.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is lofty, and I cannot fathom it.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Where shall I go from Your spirit,
or where shall I flee from Your presence?
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) If I ascend to heaven, You are there;
if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell at the end of the sea,
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) even there Your hand shall guide me,
and Your right hand shall take hold of me.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) If I say, "Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light shall be as night about me,"
12 even the darkness is not dark to You,
but the night shines as the day,
for the darkness is like light to You.
13 You brought my inner parts into being;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14 I will praise you, for You made me with fear and wonder;
marvelous are Your works,
and You know me completely.
15 My frame was not hidden from You
when I was made in secret,
and intricately put together in the lowest parts of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw me unformed,
yet in Your book
all my days were written,
before any of them came into being.
17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
18 If I should count them,
they are more in number than the sand;
when I awake,
I am still with You.
19 If only You would slay the wicked, OGod!
O violent men, depart from me.
20 For they speak against You with malice,
and Your enemies take your name in vain.
21 Do I not hate those, O Lord, who hate You?
And do I not abhor those who rise up against You?
22 I hate them with perfect hatred;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
try me, and know my concerns,
24 and see if there is any rebellious way inme,
and lead me in the ancient way.
Psalms 139
[1] O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.
[2] Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my
thought afar off.
[3] Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all
my ways.
[4] For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it
altogether.
[5] Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
[6] Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto
it.
[7] Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy
presence?
[8] If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell,
behold, thou art there.
[9] If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of
the sea;
[10] Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
[11] If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be
light about me.
[12] Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the
day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
[13] For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's
womb.
[14] I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous
are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
[15] My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and
curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
[16] Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book
all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as
yet there was none of them.
[17] How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum
of them!
[18] If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I
awake, I am still with thee.
[19] Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye
bloody men.
[20] For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name
in vain.
[21] Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with
those that rise up against thee?
[22] I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
[23] Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
[24] And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way
everlasting.
PSALMS 140
For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.
1 Deliver me, O Lord, from evil men;
protect me from violent men,
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) who plan evil deeds in their heart
and continually gather together for conflicts.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) They have tongues as sharp as a serpent;
adders' poison is with their lips. Selah
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked;
preserve me from the violent men
who have planned to overthrow me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) The proud have hid a snare for me,
and with cords they have spread a net;
they have set traps for me. Selah
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) I said to the Lord, "You are my God;
hear the voice of my supplications, O Lord."
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) O God my Lord, the strength of my salvation,
You have covered my head in the day of battle.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked;
do not allow his evil plot,
lest he be raised up. Selah
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) As for the head of those who encompassme,
let the mischief of their own lips overwhelm them;
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) let burning coals fall upon them;
let them be cast into the fire,
into deep pits that they do not rise up again.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5 ) Let not an evil speaker be established in the land;
let evil hunt the violent man to overthrow him!
12 I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted
and will give justice to the poor.
13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto Your name;
the upright shall dwell in Your presence.
Psalms 140
[1] Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man;
[2] Which imagine mischiefs in their heart; continually are they gathered
together for war.
[3] They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders' poison is
under their lips. Selah.
[4] Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from the
violent man; who have purposed to overthrow my goings.
[5] The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by
the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah.
[6] I said unto the LORD, Thou art my God: hear the voice of my
supplications, O LORD.
[7] O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head
in the day of battle.
[8] Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked
device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.
[9] As for the head of those that compass me about, let the mischief of
their own lips cover them.
[10] Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire; into
deep pits, that they rise not up again.
[11] Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall hunt
the violent man to overthrow him.
[12] I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the
right of the poor.
[13] Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall
dwell in thy presence.
PSALMS 141
A Psalm of David.
1 Lord, I cry unto You; make haste to me;
give ear to my voice, when I cry unto You.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Let my prayer be set forth before You as incense,
and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth;
keep watch over the door of my lips.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Do not let my heart be drawn to any evil,
to practice wicked deeds
with men who do iniquity,
and do not let me eat of their delights.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Let the righteous man strike me;
it shall be a kindness.
Let him rebuke me;
it shall be oil for my head;
let my head not refuse it.
For my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9 ) When their judges are thrown to stony places,
then they shall hear my words, for they are sweet.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) As when one plows to break up the land,
so our bones are scattered at the mouth of Sheol.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) But my eyes are unto You, O God my Lord,
in You is my trust; do not leave my soul defenseless.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2 Keep me from the snares that they have laid for me,
and the traps of those who do iniquity.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Let the wicked fall into their own nets,
while I pass by and escape.
Psalms 141
[1] LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when
I cry unto thee.
[2] Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of
my hands as the evening sacrifice.
[3] Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
[4] Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with
men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.
[5] Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove
me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my
prayer also shall be in their calamities.
[6] When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my
words; for they are sweet.
[7] Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth, as when one cutteth and
cleaveth wood upon the earth.
[8] But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave
not my soul destitute.
[9] Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me, and the gins of the
workers of iniquity.
[10] Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape.
Psalms 143
A Psalm of David.
1 Hear my prayer, O Lord,
give ear to my supplications;
in Your faithfulness answer me,
and in Your righteousness.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Enter not into judgment with Your servant,
for in Your sight no one living is righteous.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) For the enemy has persecuted my soul;
he has crushed my life down to the ground;
he has made me to dwell in darkness,
as those who have been long dead.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me;
my heart within me is desolate.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) I remember the days of old;
I meditate on all Your works;
I consider the work of Your hands.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) I stretch forth my hands unto You;
my soul thirsts after You as a thirsty land. Selah
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Respond to me quickly, O Lord,
my spirit fails;
do not hide Your face from me,
lest I be like those who go down into the pit.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning;
for in You I have my trust;
cause me to know the way I should walk,
for I lift up my soul unto You.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies;
I flee unto You for my protection.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Teach me to do Your will,
for You are my God;
may Your good spirit
lead me onto level ground.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Revive me, O Lord, for Your name's sake,
for Your righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble.
12 In Your mercy cut off my enemies,
and destroy all them who afflict my soul,
for I am Your servant.
Psalms 143
[1] Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy
faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.
[2] And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no
man living be justified.
[3] For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to
the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been
long dead.
[4] Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is
desolate.
[5] I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the
work of thy hands.
[6] I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a
thirsty land. Selah.
[7] Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me,
lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.
[8] Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I
trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul
unto thee.
[9] Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: I flee unto thee to hide me.
[10] Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead
me into the land of uprightness.
[11] Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name's sake: for thy righteousness' sake
bring my soul out of trouble.
[12] And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies, and destroy all them that
afflict my soul: for I am thy servant.
2) Our Daily Bread for 13 May 2022
https://odb.org/CA/2022/05/13/finish-strong
Entitled Finish Strong
Acts 20:17-24
Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders
17 (Ac 11:30; 14:23) From Miletus he sent to Ephesus for the elders
of the church.
18 (Ac 18:19; 19:1) When they came to him, he said to them,
"You know how I always lived among you from the first day that
I came to Asia,
19 (Ac 20:3; 20:31) serving the Lord with all humility
and with many tears and trials which befell me through
the plots of the Jews.
20 (Ac 20:27; 20:31) I did not keep from declaring what was beneficial
to you, and teaching you publicly and from house to house,
21 (Ac 2:38; 11:18; 20:24) testifying to both Jews and Greeks
of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
22 "Now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing
what shall befall me there,
23 (Ac 9:16; 21:4) except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every
city that imprisonment and afflictions await me.
24 (Ac 21:13; 2Co 4:1) But none of these things deter me. Nor do I count
my life of value to myself, so that I may joyfully finish my course
and the ministry which I have received from the Lord Jesus, to testify
to the gospel of the grace of God.
[17] And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the
church.
[18] And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the
first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at
all seasons,
[19] Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and
temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
[20] And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have
shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
[21] Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward
God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
[22] And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing
the things that shall befall me there:
[23] Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds
and afflictions abide me.
[24] But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto
myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I
have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
As I enter the final few minutes of my forty-minute workout, I can almost
guarantee that my instructor will yell out, "Finish strong!" Every personal
trainer or group fitness leader I've known uses the phrase a few minutes
before cool down. They know that the end of the workout is just as important
as showing up for it. And they know that the human body has a tendency to
want to slow down or slack off when it’s been in motion for a while.
The same is true in our journey with Jesus. Paul told the elders of the
church at Ephesus that he needed to finish strong as he headed to Jerusalem, where he was certain to face more persecution as an apostle of Christ (Acts
20:17-24). Paul, however, was undeterred. He had a mission and that was to
finish the journey he'd begun and to do what God called him to do. He had one
job-to tell "the good news of God's grace" (v. 24). And he wanted to finish
strong. Even if hardship awaited him (v. 23), he continued to run toward
his finish line-focused and determined to remain steadfast in his journey.
Whether we're exercising our physical muscles or working out our God-given
abilities through actions, words, and deeds, we too can be encouraged
by the reminder to finish strong. Don't "become weary" (Galatians 6:9).
Don't give up. God will provide what you need to finish strong.
By: Katara Patton
Reflect & Pray
What do you do when you get tired and feel like giving up?
What's the benefit of finishing strong?
Help me keep going on this journey, Father.
I want to finish strong so You get the glory for my life and journey.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 2 - Saved by Grace - Day 6 - It is Finished
John 5:24
24 (Jn 3:18; 1Jn 3:14; Jn 3:36) "Truly, truly I say to you, whoever hears
My word and believes in Him who sent Me has eternal life
and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death into life. "
[24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth
on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into
condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
"PLEASE BE PATIENT - GOD IS NOT FINISHED WITH ME YET,"
the sweatshirt read. In this case, the message was an ironic one,
for the occupant of the shirt was a snaggle-toothed, freckle-faced six year
old!
In one sense, God is not finished with the work he has to do in each of us.
Life in Christ is an ongoing process of change and growth as we become
more like him. Certainly, the more we see of ourselves, the more we hope
he isn't finished with us!
Yet whatever plans God has for making us into the men and women he created
us to be, certain aspects of our life in Christ are finished, finalised.
Jesus declares with absolute assurance, "whoever hears
My word and believes in Him who sent Me has eternal life
and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death into life. "
Because we do not have to earn or deserve God's grace, because we are not
called to prove ourselves worthy of Salvation, we can have immediate
and total assurance of the security of life in Jesus Christ. The one who
put his trust in the Lord has eternal life; he will not be condemned;
he has crossed over from death to life.
This "crossing over" into life happens in the split second when we acknowledge
our dependence upon Christ alone. And the rest of our lives is given over to
the development of his image in us.
God is not finished with us yet.
But his work of salvation is finished - complete,
fully dependable an accomplished fact.
Application
a) Have I ever doubted the "accomplished fact" of my own salvation? Why?
b) How can today's verse help me realise that, although I may have a lot of
growing yet to do, my salvation in Jesus Christ is secure?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Is 55:11
11 (Isa 45:23; 46:10) so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,
and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
11 so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:
it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,
and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are ill or injured
James 5:13-16
13 (Ps 50:15; Eph 5:19) Is anyone among you suffering?
Let him pray. Is anyone merry? Let him sing psalms.
14 (Mk 6:13; 16:18; Ac 14:23) Is anyone sick among you?
Let him call for the elders of the church,
and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil
in the name of the Lord.
15 (Isa 33:24; Jas 1:6) And the prayer of faith will save
the sick, and the Lord will raise him up.
And if he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.
16 (Ge 20:17; 18:23-32) Confess your faults to one another
and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much.
13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray.
Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church;
and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise
him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another,
that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man
availeth much.
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 2022 edition?)
Ontario
Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario
Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000
est Muslim Population 1 001 542
CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,
Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor
Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that
the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most
Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching
from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly
resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques
are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools
are starting.
And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their
advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,
the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour
brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of
"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of
receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town
reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.
Agree in prayer for:
- net network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
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!
And
Thank you for praying through the
5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.
"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,
I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to
cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.
Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians
and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the
love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.
One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by
light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.
As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and
confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution
to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.
Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.
Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father
to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.
I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.
God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through
the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom
and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."
13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
ROMANS 15:13
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
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be guided in every circumstance.
Pray to the Lord: "Help me keep going on this journey, Father.
I want to finish strong so You get the glory for my life and journey."
Pray to the Lord and pray to remember that once you accept Christ in your
life, he will never abandon you.
Pray to the Lord and know that His Word will never return boid.
Pray to the Lord and pray for His healing power and confess your sins.
Agree in prayer for Ontario:
- get network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
- 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 continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Pray that evangelists in Columbia will be given divine opportunities
to share the Gospel with unreached people groups.
1)Psalm 131, 133, 138 - 141, 143
Psalms 131
A Song of Ascents. Of David.
1 Lord, my heart is not haughty,
my eyes are not raised too high.
I have not striven for enormities,
for things too wonderful for me.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I composed and quieted my desire,
like a child given suck by his mother;
like a child who sucks is my desire within me.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Let Israel hope in the Lord
from now and forever.
Psalms 131
[1] LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I
exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.
[2] Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of
his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
[3] Let Israel hope in the LORD from henceforth and for ever
PSALMS 133
A Song of Ascents. Of David.
1 Behold, how good and how pleasant it is
for brothers to dwell together in unity!
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2 ) It is like precious oil upon the head,
that runs down on the beard-
even Aaron's beard-
and going down to the collar of his garments;
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) as the dew of Hermon,
that descends upon the mountains of Zion,
for there the Lord has commanded the blessing,
even life forever.
Psalms 133
[1] Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together
in unity!
[2] It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the
beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;
[3] As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains
of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.
Psalms 138
A Psalm of David.
1 I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart;
before the gods I will sing Your praise.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I will worship toward Your holy temple,
and praise Your name
for Your lovingkindness and for Your truth;
for You have exalted Your word
above all Your name.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) On the day I called, You answered me,
and strengthened me in my soul.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) All the kings of the earth shall praise You, O Lord,
for they have heard the words of Your mouth.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Indeed, they shall sing of the ways of the Lord,
for great is the glory of the Lord.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Though the Lord is exalted,
yet He has concern for the lowly,
but the proud one He knows from a distance.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
You will preserve me;
You stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemies,
and Your right hand saves me.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me;
Your mercy, O Lord, endures forever;
do not forsake the works of Your hands.
Psalms 138
[1] I will praise thee with my whole heart: before the gods will I sing
praise unto thee.
[2] I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy
lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all
thy name.
[3] In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with
strength in my soul.
[4] All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O LORD, when they hear the
words of thy mouth.
[5] Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the LORD: for great is the glory of
the LORD.
[6] Though the LORD be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the
proud he knoweth afar off.
[7] Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt
stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right
hand shall save me.
[8] The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD,
endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.
Psalms 139
For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.
1 O Lord, You have searched me
and known me.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) You know when I sit down and when I get up;
You understand my thought from far off.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) You search my path and my lying down
and are aware of all my ways.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) For there is not a word on my tongue,
but behold, O Lord, You know it fully.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You put Yourself behind and before me,
and keep Your hand on me.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is lofty, and I cannot fathom it.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Where shall I go from Your spirit,
or where shall I flee from Your presence?
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) If I ascend to heaven, You are there;
if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell at the end of the sea,
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) even there Your hand shall guide me,
and Your right hand shall take hold of me.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) If I say, "Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light shall be as night about me,"
12 even the darkness is not dark to You,
but the night shines as the day,
for the darkness is like light to You.
13 You brought my inner parts into being;
You wove me in my mother's womb.
14 I will praise you, for You made me with fear and wonder;
marvelous are Your works,
and You know me completely.
15 My frame was not hidden from You
when I was made in secret,
and intricately put together in the lowest parts of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw me unformed,
yet in Your book
all my days were written,
before any of them came into being.
17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God!
How great is the sum of them!
18 If I should count them,
they are more in number than the sand;
when I awake,
I am still with You.
19 If only You would slay the wicked, OGod!
O violent men, depart from me.
20 For they speak against You with malice,
and Your enemies take your name in vain.
21 Do I not hate those, O Lord, who hate You?
And do I not abhor those who rise up against You?
22 I hate them with perfect hatred;
I count them my enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
try me, and know my concerns,
24 and see if there is any rebellious way inme,
and lead me in the ancient way.
Psalms 139
[1] O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.
[2] Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my
thought afar off.
[3] Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all
my ways.
[4] For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it
altogether.
[5] Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.
[6] Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto
it.
[7] Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy
presence?
[8] If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell,
behold, thou art there.
[9] If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of
the sea;
[10] Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.
[11] If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be
light about me.
[12] Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the
day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
[13] For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's
womb.
[14] I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous
are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.
[15] My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and
curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
[16] Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book
all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as
yet there was none of them.
[17] How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum
of them!
[18] If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I
awake, I am still with thee.
[19] Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye
bloody men.
[20] For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name
in vain.
[21] Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with
those that rise up against thee?
[22] I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
[23] Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:
[24] And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way
everlasting.
PSALMS 140
For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.
1 Deliver me, O Lord, from evil men;
protect me from violent men,
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) who plan evil deeds in their heart
and continually gather together for conflicts.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) They have tongues as sharp as a serpent;
adders' poison is with their lips. Selah
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Keep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked;
preserve me from the violent men
who have planned to overthrow me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) The proud have hid a snare for me,
and with cords they have spread a net;
they have set traps for me. Selah
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) I said to the Lord, "You are my God;
hear the voice of my supplications, O Lord."
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) O God my Lord, the strength of my salvation,
You have covered my head in the day of battle.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked;
do not allow his evil plot,
lest he be raised up. Selah
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) As for the head of those who encompassme,
let the mischief of their own lips overwhelm them;
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) let burning coals fall upon them;
let them be cast into the fire,
into deep pits that they do not rise up again.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5 ) Let not an evil speaker be established in the land;
let evil hunt the violent man to overthrow him!
12 I know that the Lord will maintain the cause of the afflicted
and will give justice to the poor.
13 Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto Your name;
the upright shall dwell in Your presence.
Psalms 140
[1] Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me from the violent man;
[2] Which imagine mischiefs in their heart; continually are they gathered
together for war.
[3] They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; adders' poison is
under their lips. Selah.
[4] Keep me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from the
violent man; who have purposed to overthrow my goings.
[5] The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by
the wayside; they have set gins for me. Selah.
[6] I said unto the LORD, Thou art my God: hear the voice of my
supplications, O LORD.
[7] O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou hast covered my head
in the day of battle.
[8] Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked: further not his wicked
device; lest they exalt themselves. Selah.
[9] As for the head of those that compass me about, let the mischief of
their own lips cover them.
[10] Let burning coals fall upon them: let them be cast into the fire; into
deep pits, that they rise not up again.
[11] Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall hunt
the violent man to overthrow him.
[12] I know that the LORD will maintain the cause of the afflicted, and the
right of the poor.
[13] Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall
dwell in thy presence.
PSALMS 141
A Psalm of David.
1 Lord, I cry unto You; make haste to me;
give ear to my voice, when I cry unto You.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Let my prayer be set forth before You as incense,
and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth;
keep watch over the door of my lips.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Do not let my heart be drawn to any evil,
to practice wicked deeds
with men who do iniquity,
and do not let me eat of their delights.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) Let the righteous man strike me;
it shall be a kindness.
Let him rebuke me;
it shall be oil for my head;
let my head not refuse it.
For my prayer is continually against their evil deeds.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9 ) When their judges are thrown to stony places,
then they shall hear my words, for they are sweet.
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) As when one plows to break up the land,
so our bones are scattered at the mouth of Sheol.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) But my eyes are unto You, O God my Lord,
in You is my trust; do not leave my soul defenseless.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2 Keep me from the snares that they have laid for me,
and the traps of those who do iniquity.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Let the wicked fall into their own nets,
while I pass by and escape.
Psalms 141
[1] LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when
I cry unto thee.
[2] Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of
my hands as the evening sacrifice.
[3] Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.
[4] Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with
men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties.
[5] Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove
me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my
prayer also shall be in their calamities.
[6] When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall hear my
words; for they are sweet.
[7] Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth, as when one cutteth and
cleaveth wood upon the earth.
[8] But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave
not my soul destitute.
[9] Keep me from the snares which they have laid for me, and the gins of the
workers of iniquity.
[10] Let the wicked fall into their own nets, whilst that I withal escape.
Psalms 143
A Psalm of David.
1 Hear my prayer, O Lord,
give ear to my supplications;
in Your faithfulness answer me,
and in Your righteousness.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Enter not into judgment with Your servant,
for in Your sight no one living is righteous.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) For the enemy has persecuted my soul;
he has crushed my life down to the ground;
he has made me to dwell in darkness,
as those who have been long dead.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me;
my heart within me is desolate.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) I remember the days of old;
I meditate on all Your works;
I consider the work of Your hands.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) I stretch forth my hands unto You;
my soul thirsts after You as a thirsty land. Selah
7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Respond to me quickly, O Lord,
my spirit fails;
do not hide Your face from me,
lest I be like those who go down into the pit.
8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning;
for in You I have my trust;
cause me to know the way I should walk,
for I lift up my soul unto You.
9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies;
I flee unto You for my protection.
10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Teach me to do Your will,
for You are my God;
may Your good spirit
lead me onto level ground.
11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Revive me, O Lord, for Your name's sake,
for Your righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble.
12 In Your mercy cut off my enemies,
and destroy all them who afflict my soul,
for I am Your servant.
Psalms 143
[1] Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy
faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.
[2] And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy sight shall no
man living be justified.
[3] For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to
the ground; he hath made me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been
long dead.
[4] Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is
desolate.
[5] I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the
work of thy hands.
[6] I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a
thirsty land. Selah.
[7] Hear me speedily, O LORD: my spirit faileth: hide not thy face from me,
lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit.
[8] Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I
trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul
unto thee.
[9] Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: I flee unto thee to hide me.
[10] Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead
me into the land of uprightness.
[11] Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name's sake: for thy righteousness' sake
bring my soul out of trouble.
[12] And of thy mercy cut off mine enemies, and destroy all them that
afflict my soul: for I am thy servant.
2) Our Daily Bread for 13 May 2022
https://odb.org/CA/2022/05/13/finish-strong
Entitled Finish Strong
Acts 20:17-24
Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders
17 (Ac 11:30; 14:23) From Miletus he sent to Ephesus for the elders
of the church.
18 (Ac 18:19; 19:1) When they came to him, he said to them,
"You know how I always lived among you from the first day that
I came to Asia,
19 (Ac 20:3; 20:31) serving the Lord with all humility
and with many tears and trials which befell me through
the plots of the Jews.
20 (Ac 20:27; 20:31) I did not keep from declaring what was beneficial
to you, and teaching you publicly and from house to house,
21 (Ac 2:38; 11:18; 20:24) testifying to both Jews and Greeks
of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
22 "Now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing
what shall befall me there,
23 (Ac 9:16; 21:4) except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every
city that imprisonment and afflictions await me.
24 (Ac 21:13; 2Co 4:1) But none of these things deter me. Nor do I count
my life of value to myself, so that I may joyfully finish my course
and the ministry which I have received from the Lord Jesus, to testify
to the gospel of the grace of God.
[17] And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the
church.
[18] And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the
first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at
all seasons,
[19] Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and
temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
[20] And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have
shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
[21] Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward
God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
[22] And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing
the things that shall befall me there:
[23] Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds
and afflictions abide me.
[24] But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto
myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I
have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
As I enter the final few minutes of my forty-minute workout, I can almost
guarantee that my instructor will yell out, "Finish strong!" Every personal
trainer or group fitness leader I've known uses the phrase a few minutes
before cool down. They know that the end of the workout is just as important
as showing up for it. And they know that the human body has a tendency to
want to slow down or slack off when it’s been in motion for a while.
The same is true in our journey with Jesus. Paul told the elders of the
church at Ephesus that he needed to finish strong as he headed to Jerusalem, where he was certain to face more persecution as an apostle of Christ (Acts
20:17-24). Paul, however, was undeterred. He had a mission and that was to
finish the journey he'd begun and to do what God called him to do. He had one
job-to tell "the good news of God's grace" (v. 24). And he wanted to finish
strong. Even if hardship awaited him (v. 23), he continued to run toward
his finish line-focused and determined to remain steadfast in his journey.
Whether we're exercising our physical muscles or working out our God-given
abilities through actions, words, and deeds, we too can be encouraged
by the reminder to finish strong. Don't "become weary" (Galatians 6:9).
Don't give up. God will provide what you need to finish strong.
By: Katara Patton
Reflect & Pray
What do you do when you get tired and feel like giving up?
What's the benefit of finishing strong?
Help me keep going on this journey, Father.
I want to finish strong so You get the glory for my life and journey.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 2 - Saved by Grace - Day 6 - It is Finished
John 5:24
24 (Jn 3:18; 1Jn 3:14; Jn 3:36) "Truly, truly I say to you, whoever hears
My word and believes in Him who sent Me has eternal life
and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death into life. "
[24] Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth
on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into
condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.
"PLEASE BE PATIENT - GOD IS NOT FINISHED WITH ME YET,"
the sweatshirt read. In this case, the message was an ironic one,
for the occupant of the shirt was a snaggle-toothed, freckle-faced six year
old!
In one sense, God is not finished with the work he has to do in each of us.
Life in Christ is an ongoing process of change and growth as we become
more like him. Certainly, the more we see of ourselves, the more we hope
he isn't finished with us!
Yet whatever plans God has for making us into the men and women he created
us to be, certain aspects of our life in Christ are finished, finalised.
Jesus declares with absolute assurance, "whoever hears
My word and believes in Him who sent Me has eternal life
and shall not come into condemnation, but has passed from death into life. "
Because we do not have to earn or deserve God's grace, because we are not
called to prove ourselves worthy of Salvation, we can have immediate
and total assurance of the security of life in Jesus Christ. The one who
put his trust in the Lord has eternal life; he will not be condemned;
he has crossed over from death to life.
This "crossing over" into life happens in the split second when we acknowledge
our dependence upon Christ alone. And the rest of our lives is given over to
the development of his image in us.
God is not finished with us yet.
But his work of salvation is finished - complete,
fully dependable an accomplished fact.
Application
a) Have I ever doubted the "accomplished fact" of my own salvation? Why?
b) How can today's verse help me realise that, although I may have a lot of
growing yet to do, my salvation in Jesus Christ is secure?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Is 55:11
11 (Isa 45:23; 46:10) so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth;
it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,
and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
11 so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth:
it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please,
and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are ill or injured
James 5:13-16
13 (Ps 50:15; Eph 5:19) Is anyone among you suffering?
Let him pray. Is anyone merry? Let him sing psalms.
14 (Mk 6:13; 16:18; Ac 14:23) Is anyone sick among you?
Let him call for the elders of the church,
and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil
in the name of the Lord.
15 (Isa 33:24; Jas 1:6) And the prayer of faith will save
the sick, and the Lord will raise him up.
And if he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven.
16 (Ge 20:17; 18:23-32) Confess your faults to one another
and pray for one another, that you may be healed.
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man accomplishes much.
13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray.
Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church;
and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 and the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise
him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another,
that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man
availeth much.
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 2022 edition?)
Ontario
Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario
Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000
est Muslim Population 1 001 542
CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,
Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor
Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that
the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most
Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching
from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly
resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques
are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools
are starting.
And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their
advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,
the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour
brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of
"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of
receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town
reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.
Agree in prayer for:
- net network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
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!
And
Thank you for praying through the
5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.
"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,
I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to
cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.
Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians
and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the
love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.
One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by
light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.
As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and
confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution
to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.
Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.
Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father
to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.
I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.
God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through
the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom
and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."
13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy
and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,
through the power of the Holy Spirit.
[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that
ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.
ROMANS 15:13
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
12th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
(Proverb 11:1
1 A false balance is abomination to the Lord,
but a just weight is His delight.
1 A false balance is abomination to the LORD:
But a just weight is his delight.
)
b) Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to be guided in every circumstance.
Pray to the Lord: "Help me keep going on this journey, Father.
I want to finish strong so You get the glory for my life and journey."
Pray to the Lord and pray to remember that once you accept Christ in your
life, he will never abandon you.
Pray to the Lord and know that His Word will never return boid.
Pray to the Lord and pray for His healing power and confess your sins.
Agree in prayer for Ontario:
- get network leaders - the need is great
- the development of network leadership teams
- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals
whom God is calling into this ministry.
- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising
believers
- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas
- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love
towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.
- 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 continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.
Pray that the Lord will put a desire in the hearts of those in business
to follow God's principles and act honourably and ethically
Pray the the Spirit of the Lord will restrain the spirit of
hatred and destruction against humanity across the world.
Pray that evangelists in Columbia will be given divine opportunities
to share the Gospel with unreached people groups.