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Day 273 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 30 September 2022 reflections

Day 273, 30 September 2022



1) Mark 3:7-19

Luke 6:12-16

Matthew 5:1-12

Luke 6:17-26

Matthew 5:13-48

Luke 6:27-36

Matthew 6:1-4



Mark 3:7-19



The Crowd at the Seaside



7 (Mt 4:25; Lk 6:17) Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea.

And a great crowd followed Him from Galilee and Judea

8 (Eze 35:15; Isa 34:5) and Jerusalem, and Idumea, and from beyond the Jordan.

And those from Tyre and Sidon, a great crowd, when they heard

what great things He did, came to Him.

9 He told the disciples to have a small boat ready for Him

because of the crowd, lest they should crush Him.

10 (Mt 14:36; Mk 6:56) For He had healed many, so that all who had diseases

pressed on Him to touch Him.

11 (Mt 4:3; 14:33) When unclean spirits saw Him, they fell down before Him,

crying out, "You are the Son of God."

12 (Mt 12:16; Mk 1:25) But He sternly ordered them not to make Him known.



The Choosing of the Twelve Apostles

Mt 10:1-4; Lk 6:12-16



13 He went up into the mountain and called to Him those whom He desired,

and they came to Him.

14 He ordained twelve to be with Him, and to be sent out to preach,

15 and to have authority to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons:

16 (Jn 1:42; Ac 1:13) Simon, whom He named Peter;

17 James, the son of Zebedee, and John, the brother of James,

whom he surnamed Boa­nerges (meaning Sons of Thunder);

18 (Ac 1:13; Mk 2:14; Mt 9:9) Andrew,and Philip, and Bartholomew,

and Matthew, and Thomas; and James the son of Alphaeus;

and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Zealot;

19 and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Him.



[7] But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea: and a great

multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judaea,

[8] And from Jerusalem, and from Idumaea, and from beyond Jordan; and they

about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great

things he did, came unto him.

[9] And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him

because of the multitude, lest they should throng him.

[10] For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to

touch him, as many as had plagues.

[11] And unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and

cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God.

[12] And he straitly charged them that they should not make him known.

[13] And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would:

and they came unto him.

[14] And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might

send them forth to preach,

[15] And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils:

[16] And Simon he surnamed Peter;

[17] And James the son of Zebedee, and John the brother of James; and he

surnamed them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder:

[18] And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and

James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,

[19] And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they went into an

house.



Luke 6:12-16



The Choosing of the Twelve Apostles

Mt 10:1-4; Mk 3:13-19



12 (Mk 1:35) In these days He went out to the mountain to pray

and continued all night in prayer to God.

13 (Mk 6:7; 6:30) When it was day, He called for His disciples,

and of them He chose twelve, whom He named apostles:

14 (Ac 1:13; Mt 4:18) Simon, whom He named Peter, and Andrew his brother,

and James and John, and Philip and Bartholomew,

15 (Mt 9:9; Mk 3:18) and Matthew and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus,

and Simon called the Zealot,

16 (Jn 14:22) and Judas the son of James,

and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.



[12] And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to

pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

[13] And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he

chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;

[14] Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his brother, James and

John, Philip and Bartholomew,

[15] Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called Zelotes,

[16] And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the

traitor.



Matthew 5:1-12



The Sermon on the Mount



(Mt 5-7)



1 (Mt 15:29; Mk 3:13) Now seeing the crowds, He went up on a mountain.

And when He sat down, His disciples came to Him.



The Beatitudes



Lk 6:20-23



2 (Mt 13:35; Ac 8:35) And He began speaking and taught them, saying:

3 (Isa 61:1; 66:2) "Blessed are the poor in spirit,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 (Isa 61:2-3; Rev 21:4) Blessed are those who mourn,

for they shall be comforted.

5 (Ps 37:11; Ro 4:13) Blessed are the meek,

for they shall inherit the earth.

6 (Jn 4:14; 6:48-58) Blessed are those who hunger

and thirst for righteousness,

for they shall be filled.

7 (2Sa 22:26; Pr 11:17) Blessed are the merciful,

for they shall obtain mercy.

8 (Ps 24:4; Heb 12:14) Blessed are the pure in heart,

for they shall see God.

9 (Mt 5:45; Lk 6:35) Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they shall be called the sons of God.

10 (Mt 5:3; Lk 6:22) Blessed are those who are persecuted

for righteousness' sake,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 (1Pe 4:14; Lk 6:22) "Blessed are you when men revile you,

and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.

12 (Lk 6:23; Ac 5:41; 1Th 2:15) Rejoice and be very glad, because great is

your reward in heaven, for in this manner they persecuted the prophets

who were before you.



Matthew 5

[1] And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was

set, his disciples came unto him:

[2] And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,

[3] Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

[4] Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

[5] Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

[6] Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for

they shall be filled.

[7] Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

[8] Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

[9] Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of

God.

[10] Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for

theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

[11] Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall

say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

[12] Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for

so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.



Luke 6:17-26



Ministering to a Great Crowd

Mt 4:23-25



17 (Mt 11:21) He came down with them and stood on a level place with a crowd

of His disciplesand a great crowd of people from all Judea and Jerusalem,

and from the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear Him

and be healed of their diseases,

18 including those who were vexed by unclean spirits. And they were healed.

19 (Mt 14:36; Mk 3:10) The whole crowd tried to touch Him, for power went out

from Him and healed them all.



Blessings and Woes

Mt 5:1-12



20 (Lk 12:32; Jas 2:5) He lifted up His eyes on His disciples, and said:

"Blessed are you poor,

for yours is the kingdom of God.

21 (Mt 5:4; Lk 6:25) Blessed are you who hunger now,

for you shall be filled.

Blessed are you who weep now,

for you shall laugh.

22 (Mt 10:22; Jn 16:2) Blessed are you when men hate you,

and when they separate you from their company and insult you,

and cast out your name as evil,

on account of the Son of Man.

23 (Mt 5:12; 2Ch 36:16) "Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for indeed,

your reward is great in heaven. For in like manner their fathers treated

the prophets.

24 (Mt 6:2) "But woe to you who are rich,

for you have received your consolation.

25 (Isa 65:13; Pr 14:13; Jas 4:9) Woe to you who are filled,

for you shall hunger.

Woe to you who laugh now,

for you shall mourn and weep.

26 (Isa 30:10; Jer 5:31) Woe to you, when all men speak well of you,

for so their fathers spoke of the false prophets.



[17] And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of

his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and

Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him,

and to be healed of their diseases;

[18] And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed.

[19] And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out

of him, and healed them all.

[20] And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye

poor: for yours is the kingdom of God.

[21] Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye

that weep now: for ye shall laugh.

[22] Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate

you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as

evil, for the Son of man's sake.

[23] Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is

great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.

[24] But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.

[25] Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that

laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.

[26] Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their

fathers to the false prophets.



Matthew 5:13-48



Salt and Light



Mk 9:50; Lk 14:34-35



13 (Lev 2:13; Lk 14:34-35) "You are the salt of the earth.

But if the salt loses its saltiness, how shall it be made salty?

It is from then on good

for nothing but to be thrown out and to be trampled underfoot by men.

14 (Jn 8:12; Pr 4:18) "You are the light of the world.

A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.

15 (Mk 4:21; Lk 8:16) 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.

16 (1Pe 2:12; Mt 9:8; Jn 15:8) Let your light so shine before men

that they may see your good works and glorify your Father

who is in heaven.



Teaching About the Law



17 (Ro 3:31; Mt 7:12) "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law

or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish, but to fulfill.

18 (Lk 16:17) For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away,

not one dot or one mark will pass from the law until all be fulfilled.

19 (Mt 11:11) Whoever, therefore, breaks one of the least of these

commandments and teaches others to do likewise shall be called the least

in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever does and teaches them shall

be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

20 (Php 3:9; Heb 12:14) For I say to you that unless your righteousness

exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in

no way enter the kingdom of heaven.



Teaching About Anger



21 (Ex 20:13; Dt 5:17) "You have heard that it was said by the ancients,

'You shall not murder,'(Ex 20:13; Dt 5:17.) and 'Whoever murders shall be

in danger of the judgment.'

22 (Mt 10:28; 26:59) But I say to you that whoever is angry

with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.

And whoever says to his brother, 'Raca,' shall be in danger of the Sanhedrin.

But whoever says, 'You fool,' shall be in danger of hell fire.

23 (Mt 8:4; 23:19) "Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar

and there remember that your brother has something against you,

24 (Mk 9:50; Ro 12:17-18) leave your gift there before the altar

and go on your way. First be reconciled to your brother,

and then come and offer your gift.

25 (Pr 25:8; Lk 12:58-59) “Reconcile with your adversary quickly,

while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you

to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer,

and you be thrown into prison.

26 (Mt 18:34; Lk 12:59) Truly I say to you, you will by no means

come out of there until you have paid the last penny. [Gk. kodrantes.]



Teaching About Adultery



27 (Ex 20:14; Dt 5:18) "You have heard that it was said by the ancients,

'You shall not commit adultery.' [Ex 20:14; Dt 5:18. 28Job 31:1; 2Sa 11:2]

But I say to you that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has

committed adultery with her already in his heart.



[pornography, and strip clubs are part of an adultery industry]



29 [Mt 18:8-9; Mk 9:43-48] And if your right eye causes you to sin,

pluck it out and throw it away. For it is profitable that

one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body be

thrown into hell.

30 [Mt 5:29] And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off

and throw it away. For it is profitable for you that one of your members

should perish, and not that your whole body be thrown into hell.



Teaching About Divorce



Mt 19:9; Mk 10:11-12; Lk 16:18



31 (Jer 3:1; Mt 19:7) "It was said, 'Whoever divorces his wife,

let him give her a certificate of divorce.' [Dt 24:1, 3.]

32 (Lk 16:18; 1Co 7:10-11; Mt 5:28) But I say to you that whoever

divorces his wife,except for marital unfaithfulness,

causes her to commit adultery.

And whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.



Teaching About Oaths



33 (Lev 19:12; Dt 23:21) "Again, you have heard that it was said

by the ancients, 'You shall not swear falsely,

but shall fulfill your oaths to the Lord.'

(Lev 19:12; Nu 30:2; Dt 23:21.)

34 (Isa 66:1; Jas 5:12) But I say to you, do not swear at all:

neither by heaven, for it is God's throne;

35 (Ps 48:2) nor by the earth, for it is His footstool;

nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King.

36 Nor shall you swear by your head,

because you cannot make one hair white or black.

37 (Jas 5:12; Mt 13:19) But let your 'Yes' mean 'Yes,'

and 'No' mean 'No.' For whatever is more than these comes

from the evil one.



Teaching About Revenge



Lk 6:29-30



38 (Dt 19:21) "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye,

and a tooth for a tooth.' (Ex 21:24; Lev 24:20; Dt 19:21.)

39 (1Co 6:7; Isa 50:6) But I say to you, do not resist an evil person.

But whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other as well.

40 And if anyone sues you in a court of law and takes away your tunic,

let him have your cloak also.

41 (Mt 27:32) And whoever compels you to go a mile,[Jnh 3:5.] go with him two.

42 (Ps 37:21; Pr 19:17) Give to him who asks you, and from him who would

borrow from you do not turn away.



Love for Enemies

Lk 6:27-28, 32-36



43 (Lev 19:18; Dt 23:6) "You have heard that it was said,

'You shall love your neighbor [Lev 19:18.] and hate your enemy.'

44 (Lk 23:34; Ac 7:60) But I say to you, love your enemies,

bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you,

and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,

45 (Mt 5:9; Lk 6:35) that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.

For He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good

and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have?

Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

47 (Mt 5:20) And if you greet your brothers only, what are you doing

more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?

48 (Lev 19:2; Col 1:28) Therefore be perfect, even as your Father

who is in heaven is perfect.



[13] Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour,

wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be

cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.

[14] Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be

hid.

[15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a

candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works,

and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

[17] Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not

come to destroy, but to fulfil.

[18] For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one

tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

[19] Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and

shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven:

but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the

kingdom of heaven.

[20] For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the

righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into

the kingdom of heaven.

[21] Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not

kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:

[22] But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a

cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his

brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say,

Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

[23] Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest

that thy brother hath ought against thee;

[24] Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be

reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

[25] Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with

him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge

deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.

[26] Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till

thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.

[27] Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not

commit adultery:

[28] But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her

hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

[29] And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee:

for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not

that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

[30] And if thy right hand offend thee, cut if off, and cast it from thee:

for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not

that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

[31] It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her

a writing of divorcement:

[32] But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for

the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever

shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

[33] Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou

shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:

[34] But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is

God's throne:

[35] Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it

is the city of the great King.

[36] Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one

hair white or black.

[37] But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is

more than these cometh of evil.

[38] Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth

for a tooth:

[39] But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite

thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

[40] And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let

him have thy cloke also.

[41] And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain.

[42] Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee

turn not thou away.

[43] Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour,

and hate thine enemy.

[44] But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do

good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you,

and persecute you;

[45] That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he

maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the

just and on the unjust.

[46] For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even

the publicans the same?

[47] And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do

not even the publicans so?

[48] Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is

perfect.



Luke 6:27-36



Love for Enemies

Mt 5:38-48



27 (Lk 6:35; Pr 25:21-22) "But I say to you who hear, love your enemies,

do good to those who hate you,

28 (1Pe 3:9; Lk 23:34) bless those who curse you,

and pray for those who spitefully use you.

29 (Isa 50:6; La 3:30) To him who strikes you on the one cheek,

offer also the other. And from him who takes away your cloak,

do not withhold your tunic as well.

30 (Pr 21:26; Ex 22:26-27) Give to everyone who asks of you.

And of him who takes away your goods, do not ask for them back.

31 (Mt 7:12; Gal 5:14) Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.

32 "For if you love those who love you, what thanks do you receive?

For even sinners love those who love them.

33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what thanks do you receive?

For even sinners do the same.

34 (Mt 5:42; Lk 14:12-14) And if you lend to those from whom you hope

to receive, what thanks do you receive? Even sinners lend to sinners,

to receive as much in return.

35 (2Co 8:9) But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping

for nothing in return. Then your reward will be great,

and you will be the sons of the Highest.

For He is kind to the unthankful and the evil.

36 (Mt 5:48; Eph 5:1-2) Be therefore merciful,

even as your Father is merciful.



[27] But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which

hate you,

[28] Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use

you.

[29] And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other;

and him that taketh away thy cloke forbid not to take thy coat also.

[30] Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy

goods ask them not again.

[31] And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

[32] For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners

also love those that love them.

[33] And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for

sinners also do even the same.

[34] And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye?

for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.

[35] But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing

again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the

Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.

[36] Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.



Matthew 6:1-4



Matthew 6



Teaching About Charitable Giving



1 (Mt 23:5; 6:16) "Be sure that you not do your charitable deeds before men

to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father

who is in heaven.

2 (Mt 6:5; 6:16; Jn 5:44) "Therefore, when you do your charitable deeds,

do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues

and in the streets, that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you,

they have their reward.

3 But when you do your charitable deeds, do not let your left hand know

what your right hand is doing,

4 (Mt 6:6; 6:18) that your charitable deeds may be in secret.

And your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.



[1] Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them:

otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.

[2] Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before

thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they

may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

[3] But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand

doeth:

[4] That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret

himself shall reward thee openly.



2) Our Daily Bread for 30 September 2022



Entitled "Where to Turn"




Isaiah 30:12-18



12 (Isa 5:24) Therefore, thus says the Holy One of Israel:

Because you despise this word

and trust in oppression and perverseness,

and rely on them,

13 (1Ki 20:30; Ps 62:3) therefore this iniquity shall be to you

as a breach ready to fall, swelling up in a high wall,

whose collapse comes suddenly, in an instant.

14 (Ps 2:9; Jer 19:10-11) He shall break it as the breaking of the potter's

vessel that is broken in pieces;

He shall not spare so that there shall not be found in the breaking of it

a shard to take fire from the hearth

or with which to take water out of a cistern.

15 (Isa 32:17; 7:4) For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel:

In returning and rest you shall be saved;

in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength.

Yet you were not willing,

16 (Isa 31:1; 31:3) and you said, "No, for we will flee on horses";

therefore you shall flee.

"And we will ride on swift horses";

therefore those who pursue you shall be swift.

17 (Lev 26:8; 26:36) One thousand shall flee

at the threat of one man;

at the threat of five

you shall flee

until you are left

as a flag on the top of a mountain

and as a banner on a hill.



God's Promise to Zion



18( Isa 25:9; 2Pe 3:9) Therefore, the Lord longs to be gracious to you,

and therefore, He waits on high to have mercy on you;

for the Lord is a God of justice;

how blessed are all who long for Him.



[12] Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despise this

word, and trust in oppression and perverseness, and stay thereon:

[13] Therefore this iniquity shall be to you as a breach ready to fall,

swelling out in a high wall, whose breaking cometh suddenly at an instant.

[14] And he shall break it as the breaking of the potters' vessel that is

broken in pieces; he shall not spare: so that there shall not be found in

the bursting of it a sherd to take fire from the hearth, or to take water

withal out of the pit.

[15] For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and

rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your

strength: and ye would not.

[16] But ye said, No; for we will flee upon horses; therefore shall ye flee:

and, We will ride upon the swift; therefore shall they that pursue you be

swift.

[17] One thousand shall flee at the rebuke of one; at the rebuke of five

shall ye flee: till ye be left as a beacon upon the top of a mountain, and

as an ensign on an hill.

[18] And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and

therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD

is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him.



Everyone in high school admired Jack's easygoing attitude and athletic skill.

He was happiest in midair above a half-pipe ramp-one hand holding his

skateboard, the other stretched out for balance.



Jack decided to follow Jesus after he started attending a local church. Up to

that point, he'd endured significant family struggles and had used drugs to

medicate his pain. For a while after his conversion, things seemed to be going

well for him. But years later he started using drugs again. Without the proper

intervention and ongoing treatment, he eventually died of an overdose.



It's easy to turn back to what's familiar when we face difficulty. When the

Israelites felt the distress of an upcoming Assyrian attack, they crawled back

to the Egyptians-their former slave masters-for help (Isaiah 30:1-5). God

predicted that this would be disastrous, but He continued to care for them

although they made the wrong choice. Isaiah voiced God's heart: "And therefore

will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and

therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: (v. 18).



This is God's attitude toward us, even when we choose to look elsewhere to

numb our pain. He wants to help us. He doesn't want us to hurt ourselves with

habits that create bondage. Certain substances and actions tempt us with a

quick sense of relief, but God wants to provide authentic healing as we walk

closely with Him.



By: Jennifer Benson Schuldt



Reflect & Pray



Why is it important to recognize God's grace in times of failure? How can you better mirror His faithfulness in your relationship with Him?



Dear God, please set me free from sinful patterns.

Help me to turn to You when I'm tempted to find relief in something else.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 6 Reconciliation



2 Cor 5:18-19



18 All this is from God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ

and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation,

19 that is, that God was

in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their sins

against them, and has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation.



18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus

Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

19 to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself,

not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us

the word of reconciliation.



When Paul writes in 2 Cor 5:17 that we become a "new creation" in Christ

Jesus, the story does not end there. The verses following give us direction

for tht new life in Christ. "All This", Paul says, referring to the miracle of

new life in Christ, "is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ

and gave us the ministry of reconciliation."

Reconciliation means to bring back together what was once separated. Man was

separated from God by sin, and God took the initiative to reconcile man to

himself. Our "ministry of reconciliation" as Christians is twofold: to draw

others to the Lord and to work for reconciliation between individuals.

Reconciliation is the ultimate goal of forgiveness. God, through his grace ,

extends forgiveness to us when we are still sinners, unrepentant,

undeserving. When we respond, we come into reconciliation with him

and are brought back into oneness. Likewise, when we extend the grace

of forgiveness to another, we are set free by the act of forgiving, but we

hope that the ultimate outcome will be reconciliation.

God shows us the pattern: he is the wronged party, yet he does not wait for

the offender to come to him, hat in hand. He takes a bold initiative, offering

forgiveness freely with out regard to merit. The pattern applies to us;

as the new life in Christ takes hold of us, we must reach out, and reach,

and keep on reaching, breaking down the barriers, taking the risk of

rejection so that we may come to reconciliation.



Application



a) What barriers stand between me and reconciliation with another person?



b) How can I take a risk and reach out to offer forgiveness and

reconciliation to them?



c) What kind of attitude do I need to be a "minister of reconciliation"?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Ps 35:27



27 May those who favour my righteous cause

shout for joy and be glad;

may they say continually, "The Lord be magnified,

who delights in the peace of His servant."



27 Let them shout for joy, and be glad,

that favour my righteous cause:

Yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified,

which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Generous Provision



Matthew 6:24-34



God and Money



24 (Lk 16:13; 16:11; 16:9) "No one can serve two masters.

For either he will hate the one and love the other,

or else he will hold to the one and despise the other.

You cannot serve God and money."



Care and Anxiety



Lk 12:22-34



25 (Mt 6:31; 6:34; Php 4:6) "Therefore, I say to you,

take no thought about your life, what you will eat,

or what you will drink, nor about your body,

what you will put on. Is not life more than

and the body than clothing?

26 (Job 38:41; Ps 147:9) Look at the birds of the air,

for they do not sow, nor do they reap, nor gather into barns.

Yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much better than they?

27 Who among you by taking thought can add a cubit

(A cubit is about half a meter.) to his stature?

28 (Mt 6:25; 6:31) "Why take thought about clothing?

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow:

They neither work, nor do they spin.

29 (1Ki 10:4-7; 2Ch 9:4-6) Yet I say to you that even Solomon

in all his glory was not dressed like one of these.

30 (Mt 8:26; 14:31) Therefore, if God so clothes the grass of the field,

which today is here and tomorrow is thrown into the oven,

will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

31 (1Pe 5:7) Therefore, take no thought, saying, 'What shall we eat?'

or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'

32 (Mt 6:8; Lk 12:30) (For the Gentiles seek after all these things.)

For your heavenly Father knows that you have need of all these things.

33 (1Ti 4:8; 1Ki 3:11-13) But seek first the kingdom of God

and His righteousness, and all these things shall be given to you.

34 (Mt 6:25) Therefore, take no thought about tomorrow,

for tomorrow will take thought about the things of itself.

Sufficient to the day is the trouble thereof.



True Wisdom



24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one,

and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other.

Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat,

or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not

the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor

gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much

better than they?

27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?

28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field,

how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

29 and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed

like one of these.

30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is,

and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you,

O ye of little faith?

31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat?

or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:)

for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God,

and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow:

for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.

Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Remember God's promises when You pray



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 30 of the Month



a) Pray for God's will to be done where you live and throughout

Canadian society, as it is in Heaven



( Matt 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.



)



b) Pray that in kindness God will lead many to repentance in your city

or community, and across our nation. (



Rom 2:4



4 (Ex 34:6; Isa 30:18) Do you despise the riches of His goodness,

tolerance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness of God

leads you to repentance?



4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance

and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth

thee to repentance?



)



Pray to the Lord and pray to be humble, and not boastful, in all things.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, please set me free from sinful patterns.

Help me to turn to You when I'm tempted to find relief in something else."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be a minister of reconciliation.



Pray to the Lord and pray to happily and loud.



Pray to the Lord and pray to seek the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for God's will to be done where you live and throughout

Canadian society, as it is in Heaven



Pray that in kindness God will lead many to repentance in your city

or community, and across our nation.



Pray for Brother N. in Iraq, a Kurdish leader in his 60s

who has been severely beaten, as he continues his ministry.



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.

Day 272 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 29 September 2022 reflections

Day 272, 29 September 2022



1) John 5

Mark 2:23-28

Matthew 12:1-8

Luke 6:1-5

Mark 3:1-6

Matthew 12:9-14

Luke 6:6-11

Matthew 12:15-21



John 5



The Healing at the Pool



1 (Jn 2:13) After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up

to Jerusalem.

2 (Ne 3:1; 12:39) Now in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate there is a pool,

which in Hebrew is called Bethesda, having five porches.

3 In these lay a great crowd of invalids, blind, lame, and paralyzed,

waiting for the moving of the water.

4 For an angel went down at a certain time into the pool and stirred up

the water. After the stirring of the water, whoever stepped in first

was healed of whatever disease he had.

5 A certain man was there who had an illness for 38 years.

6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had been

in that condition now a long time, He said to him, "Do you want to be healed?"

7 The sick man answered Him, "Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool

when the water is stirred. But while I am coming,

another steps down before me."

8 (Mt 9:6; Mk 2:11) Jesus said to him, "Rise, take up your bed and walk."

9 (Jn 9:14) Immediately the man was healed, took up his bed, and walked.

That day was the Sabbath.

10 (Jer 17:21; Lk 6:2) The Jews therefore said to him who was cured,

"It is the Sabbath day. It is not lawful for you to carry your bed."

11 He answered them,

"He who healed me said to me, 'Take up your bed and walk.' "

12 So they asked him, "Who is the Man who said to you,

'Take up your bed and walk'?"

13 Now the man who was healed did not know who it was,

for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in that place.

14 (Jn 8:11) Afterward Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him,

"See, you have become whole. Sin no more lest something worse happens to you."

15 The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

16 (Jn 15:20; Ac 9:4-5) So the Jews persecuted Jesus and sought to kill Him,

because He had done these things on the Sabbath day.

17 (Jn 9:4; 14:10) Jesus answered them, "My Father is working still,

and I am working."

18 (Jn 10:33; 10:30; 5:16) So the Jews sought even more to kill Him,

because He not only had broken the Sabbath, but also said that

God was His Father, making Himself equal with God.



The Authority of the Son



19 (Jn 8:28; 12:49) Then Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly I say to you,

the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do.

For whatever He does, likewise the Son does.

20 (Jn 3:35; Mt 3:17) For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all things

that He Himself does. And He will show Him greater works than these so that

you may marvel.

21 (Jn 11:25; Ro 8:11) For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life,

even so the Son gives life to whom He will.

22 (Jn 5:27; Ac 10:42) The Father judges no one, but has committed

all judgment to the Son,

23 (1Jn 2:23; Lk 10:16) that all men should honor the Son, just as they honor

the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor

the Father who sent Him.

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.

25 (Jn 4:23; Lk 15:24) Truly, truly I say to you, the hour is coming,

and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God,

and those who hear will live.

26 (Jn 1:4; 11:26) For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has

given to the Son to have life in Himself,

27 (Jn 5:22; Ac 10:42) and has given Him authority to execute judgment

also, because He is the Son of Man.

28 "Do not marvel at this. For the hour is coming in which all who are

in the graves will hear His voice

29 (Ac 24:15) and come out-those who have done good to the resurrection

of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.

30 (Jn 4:34; Mt 26:39; Jn 5:19) I can do nothing of Myself. As I hear,

I judge. My judgment is just, because I seek not My own will,

but the will of the Father who sent Me.



Witnesses to Jesus



31 (Jn 8:13-14; 8:54) "If I bear witness of Myself, My testimony is not true.

32 There is another who bears witness of Me, and I know that the testimony

which He bears of Me is true.

33 "You sent to John, and he bore witness of the truth.

34 (1Jn 5:9) I do not receive testimony from man, but I say these things

that you may be saved.

35 (2Pe 1:19; Mt 21:26) He was a burning and a shining lamp,

and you were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.

36 (Jn 10:25; 15:24) "I have greater testimony than that of John.

The works which the Father has given Me to finish, the very works that I do,

bear witness of Me, that the Father has sent Me.

37 (Jn 8:18; Mt 3:17) The Father Himself, who has sent Me, has borne witness

of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form.

38 (1Jn 2:14) You do not have His word abiding in you, for you do not believe

the One He has sent.

39 (Lk 24:27; 24:44) You search the Scriptures, because you think in them

you have eternal life. These are they who bear witness of Me.

40 (Mt 23:37; Jn 3:19) Yet you are not willing to come to Me that you may

have life.

41 (1Th 2:6; Jn 5:34) "I do not receive honour from men.

42 (Jn 2:25) But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you.

43 (Mt 24:5; Jn 10:25) I have come in My Father's name,

but you do not receive Me. If another comes in his own name,

you will receive him.

44 (Ro 2:29) How can you believe, who receive glory from one another

and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?

45 (Jn 9:28-29; Ro 2:17-29) "Do not think that I shall accuse you

to the Father. There is one who accuses you-Moses, in whom you trust.

46 (Ge 3:15; Dt 18:15) For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me,

for he wrote of Me.

47 (Lk 16:31; 16:29) But if you do not believe his writings,

how will you believe My words?"



John 5

[1] After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to

Jerusalem.

[2] Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in

the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches.

[3] In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt,

withered, waiting for the moving of the water.

[4] For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled

the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in

was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.

[5] And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight

years.

[6] When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in

that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?

[7] The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is

troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth

down before me.

[8] Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.

[9] And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked:

and on the same day was the sabbath.

[10] The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day:

it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.

[11] He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up

thy bed, and walk.

[12] Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy

bed, and walk?

[13] And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed

himself away, a multitude being in that place.

[14] Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold,

thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.

[15] The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made

him whole.

[16] And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him,

because he had done these things on the sabbath day.

[17] But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.

[18] Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had

broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself

equal with God.

[19] Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you,

The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what

things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.

[20] For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself

doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.

[21] For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the

Son quickeneth whom he will.

[22] For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the

Son:

[23] That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He

that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.

[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.

[25] Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when

the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall

live.

[26] For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to

have life in himself;

[27] And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is

the Son of man.

[28] Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are

in the graves shall hear his voice,

[29] And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection

of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.

[30] I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment

is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which

hath sent me.

[31] If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.

[32] There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the

witness which he witnesseth of me is true.

[33] Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.

[34] But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye

might be saved.

[35] He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season

to rejoice in his light.

[36] But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the

Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of

me, that the Father hath sent me.

[37] And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me.

Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape.

[38] And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye

believe not.

[39] Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and

they are they which testify of me.

[40] And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.

[41] I receive not honour from men.

[42] But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you.

[43] I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall

come in his own name, him ye will receive.

[44] How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not

the honour that cometh from God only?

[45] Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that

accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.

[46] For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me.

[47] But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?



Mark 2:23-28



The Question About the Sabbath



Mt 12:1-8; Lk 6:1-5



23 (Mt 12:1-8; Lk 6:1-5) He went through the grain fields on the Sabbath.

As they went, His disciples began to pluck the heads of grain.

24 (Ex 20:10) The Pharisees said to Him, "Look, why are they doing on the Sabbath

what is not lawful?"

25 (1Sa 21:3-6; Mt 21:16) He said to them, "Have you never read what David did,

when he and those who were with him were in need and hungry:

26 (2Sa 8:17; Lev 24:5-9) how he went into the house of God, in the days

Abiathar was the high priest, and ate the ritual bread, which is lawful only

for the priests to eat, and also gave it to those who were with him?"

27 (Col 2:16; Ex 23:12; Dt 5:14) Then He said to them,

"The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.

28 (Rev 1:10) So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."



[23] And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields on the

sabbath day; and his disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn.

[24] And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath day

that which is not lawful?

[25] And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had

need, and was an hungred, he, and they that were with him?

[26] How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high

priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the

priests, and gave also to them which were with him?

[27] And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for

the sabbath:

[28] Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.



Matthew 12:1-8



The Question About the Sabbath



Mk 2:23-28; Lk 6:1-5



1 (Dt 23:25; Mk 2:23-28) At that time Jesus went through the grain fields

on the Sabbath. And His disciples were hungry and began to pluck the heads

of grain and to eat.

2 (Mt 12:10; Ex 20:9-11) But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to Him,

"Look, Your disciples are doing

that which is not lawful to do on the Sabbath!"

3 (1Sa 21:3-6; Mt 21:16) But He said to them, "Have you not read what David

and those who were with him did when he was hungry,

4 (Ex 25:30; Lev 24:5-9) how he entered the house of God and ate the ritual

bread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for those who were

with him, but only for the priests?

5 (Nu 28:9-10; Jn 7:22-23) Or have you not read in the law how on the Sabbath

the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, but are blameless?

6 (Mt 12:41-42; 2Ch 6:18) I say to you, in this place there is One who

is greater than the temple.

7 (Hos 6:6; Mt 9:13) If you had known what this meant, 'I desire mercy,

and not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent.

8 (Mt 9:6) For the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."



1] At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his

disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.

[2] But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy

disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.

[3] But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was

an hungred, and they that were with him;

[4] How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread,

which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with

him, but only for the priests?

[5] Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the

priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless?

[6] But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.

[7] But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not

sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.

[8] For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.



Luke 6:1-5



Plucking Grain on the Sabbath

Mt 12:1-8; Mk 2:23-28



1 (Dt 23:25; Mt 12:1-8) On the second Sabbath after the first, He went through

the grain fields, and His disciples plucked and ate the heads of grain,

rubbing them in their hands.

2 (Mt 12:2) Some of the Pharisees said to them, "Why are you doing what

is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?"

3 (1Sa 21:3-6; Mt 21:16) Jesus answered them,

"Have you not read what David did when he

and those who were with him were hungry?

4 (Lev 24:5-9) He went into the house of God, and took

and ate the ritual bread, and also gave it to those who were with him.

This was not lawful, but for the priests only to eat."

5 Then He said to them, "The Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath."



[1] And it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went

through the corn fields; and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did

eat, rubbing them in their hands.

[2] And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not

lawful to do on the sabbath days?

[3] And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so much as this, what

David did, when himself was an hungred, and they which were with him;

[4] How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat the shewbread,

and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat but

for the priests alone?

[5] And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.



Mark 3:1-6



The Man With a Withered Hand

Mt 12:9-14; Lk 6:6-11



1 (Mt 12:9–14; Mk 1:21) Again, He entered the synagogue, and there was a man

who had a withered hand.

2 (Lk 14:1; 6:7) They watched Him to see whether He would heal him

on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse Him.

3 He said to the man who had the withered hand, "Stand up."

4 Then He said to them, "Is it lawful to do good or to do evil

on the Sabbath, to save life or to kill?" But they kept silent.

5 (Lk 6:10; Ro 11:25) When He had looked around at them with anger,

being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man,

"Stretch your hand forward." He stretched it out, and his hand

was restored as whole as the other.

6 (Mt 22:16; Mk 12:13) Then the Pharisees went out and immediately

took counsel with the Herodians against Him, how to kill Him.



[1] And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which

had a withered hand.

[2] And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that

they might accuse him.

[3] And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth.

[4] And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or

to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace.

[5] And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for

the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine

hand. And he stretched it out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.

[6] And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the

Herodians against him, how they might destroy him.



Matthew 12:9-14



The Healing of the Withered Hand



Mk 3:1-6; Lk 6:6-11



9 (Lk 6:6-11) When He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue.

10 (Lk 13:14; Jn 9:16) And there was a man whose hand had withered.

They asked Him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?"

that they might accuse Him.

11 (Lk 14:5; Ex 23:4-5) He said to them, "What man is there among you who

has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath,

will not lay hold of it and lift it out?

12 (Mt 6:26; 10:31) Then how much better is a man than a sheep? Therefore,

it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath."

13 Then He said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And he stretched it out,

and it was restored whole like the other.

14 (Jn 11:53; Mt 27:1) Then the Pharisees went out and took counsel

against Him, how they might kill Him.



[9] And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:

[10] And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they

asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath days? that they

might accuse him.

[11] And he said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that

shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the sabbath day, will

he not lay hold on it, and lift it out?

[12] How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to

do well on the sabbath days.

[13] Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it

forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other.

[14] Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they

might destroy him.



Luke 6:6-11



The Man With a Withered Hand

Mt 12:9-14; Mk 3:1-6



6 (Mt 12:9-14; Mk 3:1-6) On another Sabbath, when He entered the synagogue

and taught, there was a man whose right hand had withered.

7 (Mk 3:2; Lk 20:20) The scribes and the Pharisees watched Him to see whether

He would heal on the Sabbath,

so that they might find an accusation against Him.

8 (Mt 9:4) But He knew their thoughts, and He said to the man

who had the withered hand, "Rise and stand in front."

So he rose and stood in front.

9 (Lk 14:3) Then Jesus said to them, "I will ask you one thing:

Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil,

to save life or to destroy it?"

10 (Mk 3:5) Then looking around at them all, He said to the man,

"Stretch out your hand." He did so, and his hand was restored

as whole as the other.

11 (Ac 5:33) But they were filled with madness

and discussed with each other what they might do to Jesus.



[6] And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the

synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered.

[7] And the scribes and Pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the

sabbath day; that they might find an accusation against him.

[8] But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered

hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth.

[9] Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the

sabbath days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy it?

[10] And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch

forth thy hand. And he did so: and his hand was restored whole as the other.

[11] And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what

they might do to Jesus.



Matthew 12:15-21



The Chosen Servant



15 (Mt 10:23; 19:2) But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew from there.

And great crowds followed Him, and He healed them all,

16 (Mt 8:4; 9:30) and warned them that they should not make Him known,

17 to fulfill what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying:

18 (Lk 4:18; Jn 3:34) "Here is My Servant, whom I have chosen,

My Beloved, in whom My soul is well pleased;

I will put My Spirit upon Him,

and He will render judgment to the Gentiles.

19 He shall not struggle nor cry out,

nor will anyone hear His voice in the streets.

20 A bruised reed He will not break,

and a smoldering wick He will not quench,

until He renders judgment unto victory;

21 Isa 11:10 and in His name will the Gentiles trust."



[15] But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence: and great

multitudes followed him, and he healed them all;

[16] And charged them that they should not make him known:

[17] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet,

saying,

[18] Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is

well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to

the Gentiles.

[19] He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in

the streets.

[20] A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not

quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.

[21] And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.



2) Our Daily Bread for 29 September 2022



Entitled "The Coffee-Bean Bowl"




John 12:1-7



The Anointing at Bethany

Mt 26:6-13; Mk 14:3-9

1 (Jn 11:55; Mt 21:17) Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany,

where Lazarus was, who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead.

2 (Lk 10:38-42) They prepared a supper for Him there. Martha served,

but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him.

3 (Jn 11:2; Lk 7:37-38) Then Mary took a pint

(Gk. a litra, or half a liter.) of very costly ointment made

from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet

with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment.

4 (Mt 10:4) But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son,

who would betray Him, said,

5 "Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii

(About a year's wages.) and given to the poor?"

6 (Jn 13:29) He said this, not because he cared for the poor, but because

he was a thief. And having the money box, he used to steal what was put in it.

7 But Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She has kept this for the day of My

burial.



[1] Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus

was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.

[2] There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of

them that sat at the table with him.

[3] Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and

anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house

was filled with the odour of the ointment.

[4] Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which

should betray him,

[5] Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the

poor?

[6] This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a

thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

[7] Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she

kept this.



I'm not a coffee drinker, but one sniff of coffee beans brings me a moment of

both solace and wistfulness. When our teenage daughter Melissa was making her

bedroom uniquely hers, she filled a bowl with coffee beans to permeate her

room with a warm, pleasant scent.



It's been nearly two decades since Melissa's earthly life ended in a car

accident at age seventeen, but we still have that coffee-bean bowl. It gives

us a continual, aromatic remembrance of Mell's life with us.



Scripture also uses fragrances as a reminder. Song of Songs refers to

fragrances as a symbol of love between a man and a woman (see 1:3; 4:11, 16).

In Hosea, God's forgiveness of Israel is said to be "fragrance like a cedar of

Lebanon" (Hosea 14:6). And Mary’s anointing of Jesus' feet, which caused the

house of Mary and her siblings to be "filled with the fragrance of the

perfume" (John 12:3), pointed ahead to Jesus' death (see v. 7).



The idea of fragrance can also help us be mindful of our testimony of faith to

those around us. Paul explained it this way: "We are to God the pleasing aroma

of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing"

(2 Corinthians 2:15).



Just as the scent of coffee beans reminds me of Melissa, may our lives produce

a scent of Jesus and His love that reminds others of their need of Him.



By: Dave Branon



Reflect & Pray



How can you be "the fragrance of Christ" to someone today? How has your

life caused others to sense the presence of the Saviour?



Dear heavenly Father, help me to pass along an aroma

of life that makes others know I represent You.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 5 When you pray



Mark 11:25



25 And when you stand praying, forgive if you have anything against anyone,

so that your Father who is in heaven may also forgive you your sins.



25 And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any:

that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.



"My prayer don't seem to be very effective," a man told his pastor." I try

to make contact with God, but my prayers seem to hit the ceiling and bounce

back."

The pastor thought for a moment, then gently suggested,

"Is there someone in your life you haven't forgiven?"

"What do you mean?" The man's face flushed; the pastor has obviuosly struck

a nerve. "Well, I guess I've had some struggles with my mother ... and then,

my wife, and I ... ." The hidden truth came to light: the man was bound in

unforgiving relationships with five of the closest people to him.

Forgiveness is an essential element in prayer. For a very good reason,

worship services in liturgical churches place the confession of sin and the

absolution near the beginning of the service, before the reading of God's

Word, prayer, and the sermon. Forgiveness - both the Lord's forgiveness

of us and our forgiveness of others - clears the way for unhindered

communication between God and his people.

When we carry anger and bitterness, or even deeply buried, well-subliminated

unforgiveness, into the presence of God, our prayers will be affected. We can,

however, free the Holy Spirit to work in our lives and the lives of others

through forgiveness. We can choose to forgive in light of God's forgiveness

of us. And when we do, the channels are re-established;

we can pray in power and open ourselves to an awareness of his activity

in our lives.



Application



a) Have my prayers ever been affected by unforgiveness in my life?



b) Is there someone in my life whom I need to forgive,

whether or not I can work toward?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Joshua 1:5



5 (Dt 7:24; 31:6-8) No man will be able to stand against

you all the days of your life.

As I was with Moses, I will be with you.

I will not abandon you. I will not leave you.



5 There shall not any man be able to stand before

thee all the days of thy life:

as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee:

I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Help in Times of Temptation



1 Cor 10:1-13



1 Corinthians 10



Warning Against Idolatry



1 (Ex 14:29; Ps 66:6) I would not want you to be unaware that

all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea,

2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

3 (Ex 16:35; Dt 8:3) all ate the same spiritual food;

4 (Ex 17:6; Nu 20:11) and all drank the same spiritual drink,

for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them,

and that Rock was Christ.

5 (Heb 3:17; Jude 1:5) But with many of them God was not well pleased,

and they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6 (Nu 11:4; 1Co 10:11) Now these things were our examples to the intent

that we should not lust after evil things as they lusted.

7 (Ex 32:19; 32:4) Neither be idolaters as were some of them.

As it is written,

"The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to revel." (Ex 32:6. )

8 (Nu 25:1-9; 1Co 6:18) Neither let us commit sexual immorality as some

of them committed, when 23000 fell in one day.

9 (Nu 21:5-6; Ex 17:2) Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them

also tempted and were destroyed by serpents.

10 (Ex 12:23; Nu 16:41) Neither murmur, as some of them also murmured

and were destroyed by the destroyer.

11 (Ro 13:11) Now all these things happened to them for examples.

They are written as an admonition to us,

upon whom the end of the ages has come.

12 (Ro 11:20) Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed,

lest he fall.

13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken you except what is common

to man. God is faithful, and He will not permit you to be tempted above

what you can endure, but will with the temptation also make a way

to escape, that you may be able to bear it.



1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all

our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

2 and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

3 and did all eat the same spiritual meat;

4 and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that

spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

5 But with many of them God was not well pleased:

for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust

after evil things, as they also lusted.

7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written,

The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed,

and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted,

and were destroyed of serpents.

10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured,

and were destroyed of the destroyer.

11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples:

and they are written for our admonition,

upon whom the ends of the world are come.

12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man:

but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted

above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also

make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 29 of the Month



a) Pray that God will enlighten those in medicine and health care

to acknowledge the sanctity of life and server with true

integrity and compassion (



Ps 139:13-16



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.



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.



)



b) Pray that the Church in Canada will remember the poor

and compassionately respond to their plight (



Gal 2:10



10 (Ac 24:17) Only they requested that we should remember the poor,

which I also was eager to do.



10 Only they would that we should remember the poor;

the same which I also was forward to do.



)





Pray to the Lord and pray to Him about knowing how to honour the Sabbath.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear heavenly Father, help me to pass along an aroma

of life that makes others know I represent You."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be forgiving of those even close to you.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him as your protector.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to help you escape temptation.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that God will enlighten those in medicine and health care

to acknowledge the sanctity of life and server with true

integrity and compassion



Pray that the Church in Canada will remember the poor

and compassionately respond to their plight



Pray for the unity of Christians representing various churches in Morocco.



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.

Day 271 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 28 September 2022 reflections

Day 271, 28 September 2022



1) Luke 5:1-11

Mark 1:40-45

Matthew 8:1-4

Luke 5:12-16

Mark 2:1-12

Matthew 9:1-8

Luke 5:17-26

Mark 2:13-17

Matthew 9:9-13

Luke 5:27-32

Mark 2:18-22

Matthew 9:14-17

Luke 5:33-39



Luke 5:1-11



The Calling of the First Disciples



Mt 4:18-22; Mk 1:16-20



1 (Nu 34:11; Jos 12:3) As the people pressed upon Him to hear

the word of God, He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret

2 (Mk 1:19; Mt 4:21) and saw two boats beside the lake.

But the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets.

3 He entered one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him

to thrust it out a little from the land.

Then He sat down and taught the people from the boat.

4 (Jn 21:6) When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon,

"Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch."

5 (Jn 21:3) Simon answered Him, "Master, we have worked all night

and have caught nothing. But at Your word I will let down the net."

6 When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish,

and their net was tearing.

7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come

and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that

they began to sink.

8 (Isa 6:5) When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees,

saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord."

9 For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch

of fish which they had taken,

10 and so were James and John, the sons of Zebedee,

who were partners with Simon.

Then Jesus said to Simon, "Do not fear. From now on you will catch men."

11 (Mt 4:20; 19:27) So when they had brought their boats to land,

they left everything and followed Him.



[1] And it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to hear the

word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,

[2] And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out

of them, and were washing their nets.

[3] And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him

that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught

the people out of the ship.

[4] Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the

deep, and let down your nets for a draught.

[5] And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night,

and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.

[6] And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes:

and their net brake.

[7] And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship,

that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the

ships, so that they began to sink.

[8] When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart

from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.

[9] For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the

fishes which they had taken:

[10] And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were

partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth

thou shalt catch men.

[11] And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and

followed him.



Mark 1:40-45



The Cleansing of a Leper



Mt 8:1-4; Lk 5:12-16



40 (Mk 10:17; Mt 8:2-4) A leper came to Him, pleading with Him

and kneeling before Him, saying, "If You are willing, You can make me clean."

41 Then Jesus, moved with compassion, extended His hand and touched him,

and said to him, "I will. Be clean."

42 As soon as He had spoken, the leprosy immediately departed from him,

and he was cleansed.

43 (Mt 9:30) He sternly warned him, and sent him away at once,

44 (Mt 8:4; Lk 17:14)saying, "See that you say nothing to anyone.

But go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing

what Moses commanded, as a testimony to them."

45 (Mk 2:13; Mt 9:31) Instead he went out and began to proclaim it widely

and to spread the news around, so that Jesus could no more openly

enter the city, but was out in remote places.

And they came to Him from every quarter.



[40] And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to

him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

[41] And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him,

and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.

[42] And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from

him, and he was cleansed.

[43] And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away;

[44] And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way,

shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which

Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

[45] But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the

matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city, but

was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.



Matthew 8:1-4



The Cleansing of a Leper



Mk 1:40-45; Lk 5:12-16



1 When He came down from the mountains, large crowds followed Him.

2 (Mt 18:26; 15:25) And then a leper came and worshipped Him, saying,

"Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean."

3 Jesus reached out His hand and touched him, saying, "I will. Be clean."

And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.

4 (Lev 14:2-32; Mt 9:30) Then Jesus said to him, "See that you tell no one.

But go your way, show yourself to the priest,

and offer the gift that Moses commanded as a testimony to them."



[1] When he was come down from the mountain, great multitudes followed him.

[2] And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if

thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

[3] And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be

thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.

[4] And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew

thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a

testimony unto them.



Luke 5:12-16



The Cleansing of a Leper



Mt 8:1-4; Mk 1:40-45



12 (Mt 8:2-4; 9:28) When He was in a certain city, a man full of leprosy,

upon seeing Jesus, fell on his face and begged Him,

"Lord, if You will, You can make me clean."

13 He reached out His hand and touched him, saying, "I will. Be clean."

And immediately the leprosy left him.

14 (Lev 14:2-32; Mt 8:4) Then He commanded him to tell no one,

"But go and show yourself to the priest and make an offering

for your cleansing, as Moses commanded, as a testimony to them."

15 (Mt 9:26) Yet even more so His fame went everywhere.

And great crowds came together to hear and to be healed by Him

of their infirmities.

16 (Mt 14:23; Lk 6:12) But He withdrew to the wilderness and prayed.



[12] And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full

of leprosy: who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying,

Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.

[13] And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will: be thou

clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him.

[14] And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew thyself to the

priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a

testimony unto them.

[15] But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great

multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their

infirmities.

[16] And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.



Mark 2:1-12



The Healing of a Paralytic



Mt 9:1-8; Lk 5:17-26



1 (Mt 9:1) Again, He entered Capernaum after some days.

And it was reported that He was in the house.

2 (Mk 1:45; 2:13) Immediately many were gathered together,

so that there was no room to receive them, not even at the door.

And He preached the word to them.

3 (Lk 5:18-26) They came to Him bringing one sick with paralysis,

who was carried by four men.

4 (Lk 5:19) When they could not come near Him due to the crowding,

they uncovered the roof where He was. When they had broken it open,

they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay.

5 (Mt 9:2; 9:22) When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic,

"Son, your sins are forgiven you."

6 But some of the scribes were sitting there, reasoning in their hearts,

7 (Isa 43:25; Mk 14:64; Jn 10:36) "Why does this Man speak such blasphemies?

Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

8 Immediately, when Jesus perceived in His spirit that they so reasoned

within themselves, He said to them, "Why do you contemplate these things

in your hearts?

9 Which is easier to say to the paralytic: 'Your sins are forgiven you,'

or to say, 'Rise, take up your bed and walk'?

10 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth

to forgive sins," He said to the paralytic,

11 "I say to you, rise, and take up your bed, and go your way to your house."

12 (Mt 9:8; 9:33) Immediately he rose, picked up the bed, and went out

in front of them all, so that they were all amazed and glorified God,

saying, "We never saw anything like this!"



[1] And again he entered into Capernaum, after some days; and it was noised

that he was in the house.

[2] And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no

room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the

word unto them.

[3] And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne

of four.

[4] And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered

the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed

wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

[5] When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy

sins be forgiven thee.

[6] But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in

their hearts,

[7] Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God

only?

[8] And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned

within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your

hearts?

[9] Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be

forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk?

[10] But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive

sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

[11] I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine

house.

[12] And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them

all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never

saw it on this fashion.



Matthew 9:1-8



The Healing of a Paralytic



Mk 2:1-12; Lk 5:17-26



1 (Mt 4:13; Mk 5:21) He entered a boat, crossed over,

and came into His own city.

2 (Mt 9:22; 4:24; 8:10) They brought to Him a man sick with paralysis,

lying on a bed. And Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the paralytic,

"Son, be of good cheer. Your sins are forgiven you."

3 (Mt 26:65) Then certain scribes said within themselves,

"This Man blasphemes."

4 (Mt 12:25; Lk 6:8) Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, "Why do you

think evil in your hearts?

5 For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are

forgiven you' or to say, 'Arise and walk'?

6 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth

to forgive sins" then He said to the paralytic, "Arise, pick up your bed,

and go into your house."

7 And he rose and departed to his house.

8 (Mt 15:31; Lk 7:16; 17:15) But when the crowds saw it,

they were amazed and glorified God who had given such authority to men.





[1] And he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his own city.

[2] And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a

bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be

of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.

[3] And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This man

blasphemeth.

[4] And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your

hearts?

[5] For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say,

Arise, and walk?

[6] But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive

sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed, and

go unto thine house.

[7] And he arose, and departed to his house.

[8] But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glorified God, which

had given such power unto men.



Luke 5:17-26



The Healing of a Paralytic



Mt 9:1-8; Mk 2:1-12



17 (Mt 15:1; Lk 6:19) On a certain day, as He was teaching,

Pharisees and teachers of the law were sitting nearby,

who had come from every town of Galilee and Judea

and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was present

to heal the sick.

18 (Mt 9:2-8; Mk 2:3-12) Now some men brought in a bed

a man who was paralyzed. They searched for ways to bring him

in and lay him before Him.

19 (Mk 2:4; Dt 22:8) When they could not find a way to bring

him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof

and let him down through the tiles with his bed into their midst

before Jesus.

20 (Lk 7:48; Mt 9:2) When He saw their faith, He said to him,

"Man, your sins are forgiven you."

21 (Isa 43:25; Ps 32:5) The scribes and the Pharisees began

to question, "Who is He who speaks blasphemies?

Who can forgive sins but God alone?"

22 When Jesus perceived their thoughts, He answered them,

"Why question in your hearts?

23 Which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven you,' or to say,

'Rise up and walk'?

24 But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority

on earth to forgive sins," He said to the paralyzed man,

"I say to you, rise, take up your bed, and go to your house."

25 Immediately he rose before them, and took up that on which he lay,

and departed to his own house, glorifying God.

26(Mt 9:8; Lk 7:16) They were all amazed, and they glorified God

and were filled with fear, saying, "We have seen wonderful things today."



[17] And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there

were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of

every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord

was present to heal them.

[18] And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy:

and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him.

[19] And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in

because of the multitude, they went upon the housetop, and let him down

through the tiling with his couch into the midst before Jesus.

[20] And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are

forgiven thee.

[21] And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this

which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?

[22] But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them,

What reason ye in your hearts?

[23] Whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Rise

up and walk?

[24] But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to

forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise,

and take up thy couch, and go into thine house.

[25] And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he

lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God.

[26] And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with

fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.



Mark 2:13-17



The Calling of Levi



Mt 9:9-13; Lk 5:27-32



13 (Mk 1:45) He went out again by the seaside, and the whole crowd came

to Him, and He taught them.

14 (Mk 3:18) As He passed by, He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting

at the tax collector's station, and He said to him, "Follow Me."

And he rose and followed Him.

15 As Jesus was at supper in his house, many tax collectors

and sinners also sat together with Jesus and His disciples.

For there were many, and they followed Him.

16 (Ac 23:9) When the scribes and Pharisees saw Him eating with tax collectors

and sinners, they said to His disciples, "How is it that He eats

and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?"

17 (Mt 9:12-13; Lk 5:31-32) When Jesus heard it, He said to them,

"Those who are well have no need of a physician,

but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous,

but sinners to repentance."



[13] And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted

unto him, and he taught them.

[14] And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the

receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed

him.

[15] And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many

publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for

there were many, and they followed him.

[16] And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and

sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh

with publicans and sinners?

[17] When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no

need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the

righteous, but sinners to repentance.



Matthew 9:9-13



The Calling of Matthew

Mk 2:13-17; Lk 5:27-32



9 As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting

at the tax collector's station. And He said to him, "Follow Me."

And he rose and followed Him.

10 While Jesus sat at supper in the house, many tax collectors

and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples.

11 (Mt 11:19; Lk 5:30) When the Pharisees saw it, they said to His disciples,

"Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?"

12 (Mk 2:17; Lk 5:31) But when Jesus heard that, He said to them,

"Those who are well do not need a physician, but those who are sick.

13 (Hos 6:6; Mt 12:7) But go and learn what this means,

'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.'Hos 6:6.

For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance."



[9] And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew,

sitting at the receipt of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he

arose, and followed him.

[10] And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many

publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples.

[11] And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth

your Master with publicans and sinners?

[12] But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need

not a physician, but they that are sick.

[13] But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy, and not

sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to

repentance.



Luke 5:27-32



The Calling of Levi



Mt 9:9-13; Mk 2:13-17



27 After these things He went out and saw a tax collector, named Levi,

sitting at the tax collector's station. He said to him, "Follow Me."

28 (Lk 5:11) And he left everything, rose up, and followed Him.

29 (Lk 15:1) Then Levi made Him a great feast in his house.

And there was a group of many tax collectors and others who sat down

with them.

30 (Ac 23:9) But their scribes and Pharisees murmured

against His disciples, saying,

"Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?"

31 (Mt 9:12-13; Mk 2:17) Jesus answered them,

"Those who are well do not need a physician, but those who are sick.

32 (Lk 15:7; 15:10) I have not come to call the righteous,

but sinners to repentance."



[27] And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi,

sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.

[28] And he left all, rose up, and followed him.

[29] And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great

company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.

[30] But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying,

Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?

[31] And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a

physician; but they that are sick.

[32] I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.



Mark 2:18-22



The Question About Fasting



Mt 9:14-17; Lk 5:33-39

18 (Mt 6:16; 6:18) Now the disciples of John and of the Pharisees

were fasting. And people came and said to Him,

"Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast,

but Your disciples do not fast?"

19 Jesus said to them, "Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom

is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast.

20 (Lk 17:22) But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken

away from them, and then they will fast in those days.

21 "No one sews a piece of new cloth on an old garment, or else the new piece

that covered it tears away from the old, and the tear is made worse.

22 (Jos 9:4) And no one pours new wine into old wineskins,

or else the new wine bursts the wineskins, and the wine is spilled,

and the wineskins will be marred.

But new wine must be poured into new wineskins."



[18] And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they

come and say unto him, Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees

fast, but thy disciples fast not?

[19] And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber fast,

while the bridegroom is with them? as long as they have the bridegroom with

them, they cannot fast.

[20] But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from

them, and then shall they fast in those days.

[21] No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new

piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made

worse.

[22] And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth

burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred:

but new wine must be put into new bottles.



Matthew 9:14-17

Luke 5:33-39



The Question About Fasting



Mt 9:14-17; Mk 2:18-22



33 (Lk 11:1; 18:12) They said to Him, "Why do the disciples of John

fast often and offer prayers, and likewise the disciples

of the Pharisees, but Yours eat and drink?"

34 (Jn 3:29) He said to them, "Can you make the attendants

of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them?

35 (Lk 17:22) But the days will come when the bridegroom

will be taken away from them. Then in those days they will fast."

36 He told them a parable also: "No one sews a piece of a new material

on an old one. Otherwise the new would tear, for the new piece does not

match the old.

37 (Jos 9:4) And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise

the new wine will burst the wineskins, and it will be spilled,

and the wineskins will be destroyed.

38 But new wine must be put into new wineskins, and both are preserved.

39 And no one, having drunk old wine, immediately desires new.

For he says, 'The old is better.' "



[33] And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and

make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and

drink?

[34] And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber

fast, while the bridegroom is with them?

[35] But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from

them, and then shall they fast in those days.

[36] And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new

garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the

piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.

[37] And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will

burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish.

[38] But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved.

[39] No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new: for he

saith, The old is better.



2) Our Daily Bread for 28 September 2022



Entitled "Out of the Heart"




Matthew 15:12-20



12 Then His disciples came and said to Him, "Do You know that the Pharisees

were offended after they heard this saying?"

13 (Isa 60:21; Jn 15:2) But He answered, "Every plant which My heavenly

Father has not planted will be uprooted.

14 (Lk 6:39; Isa 56:10) Leave them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind.

And if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into the ditch."

15 (Mt 13:36) Then Peter said to Him, "Explain this parable to us."

16 (Mt 16:9) Jesus said, "Are you also still without understanding?

17 (1Co 6:13) Do you not yet understand that whatever enters at the mouth

goes into the stomach and is cast out into the sewer?

18 (Mt 12:34) But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from

the heart, and they defile the man.

19 (Gal 5:19-21) For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders,

adulteries, sexual immorality, thefts, false witness, and blasphemies.

20 These are the things which defile a man. But to eat with unwashed hands

does not defile a man."



[12] Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the

Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?

[13] But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath

not planted, shall be rooted up.

[14] Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind

lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

[15] Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.

[16] And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?

[17] Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth

goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?

[18] But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the

heart; and they defile the man.

[19] For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries,

fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

[20] These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands

defileth not a man.



AA rescue mission nicknamed "Operation Noah's Ark" might sound fun for animal

lovers, but it was a nightmare for the Nassau Society for the Prevention of

Cruelty to Animals. After receiving complaints about the noise and the horrid

stench coming from a certain house, workers entered the Long Island home and

found (and later removed) more than four hundred animals from their neglected

conditions.



We may not be holding hundreds of animals in filthy conditions, but Jesus said

we might be harbouring evil and sinful thoughts and actions in our hearts that

need to be exposed and removed.



In teaching His disciples about what makes a person clean and unclean, Jesus

said it isn't dirty hands or "whatever enters the mouth" that defiles a

person, but an evil heart (Matthew 15:17-19). The stench from our hearts will

eventually leak out from our lives. Then Jesus gave examples of evil thoughts

and actions that come "out of the heart" (v. 19). No amount of external

religious activities and rituals can make them clean.

We need God to transform our hearts.



We can practice Jesus' inside-out ethic by giving Him access to the squalor

of our hearts and letting Him remove what’s causing the stench. As Christ

uncovers what's coming from our hearts, He'll help our words and actions be

aligned with His desires, and the aroma from our lives will please Him.



By: Marvin Williams



Reflect & Pray



Why is it important to take frequent inventory of your heart?

How can you seek God's help?



Loving God, my heart is desperately wicked. Only You can fully know it and remove the evil that's in it.





For further study, read The Forgiveness of God.




3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 4 "Formula" for Forgiveness



Luke 17:3 - 4



3 (Lev 19:17; Mt 18:21)"Take heed to yourselves."

"If your brother sins against you, rebuke him. And if he repents,

forgive him.

4 (Mt 18:21-22) If he sins against you seven times in a day,

and seven times in a day turns to you, saying,

'I repent,' you must forgive him."



3 Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him;

and if he repent, forgive him.

4And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day,

and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent;

thou shalt forgive him.



The context of these verses give us an interesting perspective of Jesus'

disciples. In a corollary passage in Matthew 18, the disciples (through

Peter, the designated mouthpiece) ask Jesus,

21 (Mt 18:15; Lk 17:3-4) Then Peter came to Him and said,

"Lord, how often shall I forgive my brother who sins against me?

Up to seven times?" (Matthew 18:21)

The disciples wanted a "formula" for forgiveness: they wanted to be able to

develop a checklist. Once, twice, maybe three times a brother could be

forgiven, but after that, you could write him off. After all, if

he keeps on offending over and over again, he doesn't deserve to be forgiven!

But Jesus says, " Rebuke him - let him know his fault; if he repents,

forgive him - even seven times in the same day!"

And the disciplines' response is predictable: "Lord, increase our faith!" They

were more comfortable with their own formula for forgiveness than with the

outrageous demands of the love that Christ imposed upon them.

We are so like the disciples. We want to draw a line and say. "This far

- no more. I'll forgive you once, but don't do it again. Now that you're

forgiven, you'd better shape up!". Yet God's love doesn't recognise "again".

He forgives, and no matter how often we come to him in repentance

for repeated offenses, his arms of forgiveness are open to us.

That is the way God wants us to forgive. He wants us to lay aside our

checklists, put away our suspicions, abandon our scoreboards, and forgive.

Seven times, or seventy times seven, as often as we have sinned against God

and been forgiven, we are to forgive.



Application



a) Have I ever kept a "scorecard" of performance on someone I

have forgiven ? Why?



b) Why do I need "increased faith" to be able to forgive as

Jesus calls me to?



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.



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 28 of the Month



a) Pray for new Canadians, that they will have opportunity to hear

and respond to the Gospel and place their faith in Jesus Christ.



(



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.



)



b) Pray for God's kingdom to come in the life of someone you

know today . (



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.



)



Pray to the Lord and confess you are a sinner and pray for him to help you.



Pray to the Lord: "Loving God, my heart is desperately wicked.

Only You can fully know it and remove the evil that's in it."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be infinitely forgiving no matter what happens.



Pray to the Lord and pray to shine for Him.



Pray to the Lord and pray to confess every sin to him so He can cleanse us.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for new Canadians, that they will have opportunity to hear

and respond to the Gospel and place their faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for God's kingdom to come in the life of someone you

know today .



Pray for the wisdom and safety of Christian workers in Laos

who are often at great risk.



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.

Day 270 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 27 September 2022 reflections

Day 271, 27 September 2022



1) Mark 1:14-15

Matthew 4:12-17

Luke 3:23-38

John 4:46-54

Luke 4:16-30

Mark 1:16-20

Matthew 4:18-22

Mark 1:21-28

Luke 4:31-37

Mark 1:29-34

Matthew 8:14-17

Luke 4:38-41

Mark 1:35-39

Luke 4:42-44

Matthew 4:23-25



Mark 1:14-15



The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry



Mt 4:12-17; Lk 4:14-15



14 (Mt 4:12; 4:23) After John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee

preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

15 (Gal 4:4; Ac 20:21; Eph 1:10) saying, "The time is fulfilled,

and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent and believe the gospel."



[14] Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee,

preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,

[15] And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand:

repent ye, and believe the gospel.



Matthew 4:12-17



The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry



Mk 1:14-15; Lk 4:14-15

12 (Mk 1:14; Lk 3:20; 4:14) Now when Jesus heard that John

was put in prison, He left for Galilee.

13 (Mk 1:21; Jn 4:46) And leaving Nazareth, He came and lived

in Capernaum, which is by the sea, in the regions of Zebulun and Naphtali,

14 (Mt 1:22) that what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled,

saying:

15 "The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,

the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan,

Galilee of the Gentiles:

16 (Lk 2:32; Job 3:5) The people who sat in darkness

saw great light.

And on those who sat in the land of the shadow of death,

light has dawned."

17 (Mt 3:2; Mk 1:14-15) From that time Jesus began to preach, saying,

"Repent! For the kingdom of heaven is at hand."



[12] Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed

into Galilee;

[13] And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the

sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:

[14] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet,

saying,

[15] The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea,

beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles;

[16] The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat

in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.

[17] From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the

kingdom of heaven is at hand.



Luke 3:23-38



The Genealogy of Jesus



Mt 1:1-17



23 (Mt 13:55; Nu 4:3) Now Jesus Himself began His ministry

at about thirty years of age, being, as was supposed, the son of Joseph,

who was the son of Heli,

24 who was the son of Matthat,

who was the son of Levi, who was the son of Melchi,

who was the son of Jannai, who was the son of Joseph,

25 who was the son of Mattathias, who was the son of Amos,

who was the son of Nahum, who was the son of Esli,

who was the son of Naggai,

26 who was the son of Maath,

who was the son of Mattathias, who was the son of Semein,

who was the son of Josech, who was the son of Joda,

27 (Mt 1:12) who was the son of Joanan, who was the son of Rhesa,

who was the son of Zerubbabel, who was the son of Shealtiel,

who was the son of Neri,

28 who was the son of Melchi,

who was the son of Addi, who was the son of Cosam,

who was the son of Elmadam, who was the son of Er,

29 who was the son of Joshua, who was the son of Eliezer,

who was the son of Jorim, who was the son of Matthat,

who was the son of Levi,

30 who was the son of Simeon,

who was the son of Judah, who was the son of Joseph,

who was the son of Jonan, who was the son of Eliakim,

31 (2Sa 5:14; 1Ch 3:5) who was the son of Melea, who was the son of Menna,

who was the son of Mattatha, who was the son of Nathan,

who was the son of David,

32 (Ru 4:18-22; 1Ch 2:10-15) who was the son of Jesse,

who was the son of Obed, who was the son of Boaz,

who was the son of Salmon, who was the son of Nahshon,

33 (Ru 4:19-20) who was the son of Amminadab, who was the son of Ram,

who was the son of Hezron, who was the son of Perez,

who was the son of Judah,

34 (Ge 21:3; 25:26) who was the son of Jacob,

who was the son of Isaac, who was the son of Abraham,

who was the son of Terah, who was the son of Nahor,

35 who was the son of Serug, who was the son of Reu,

who was the son of Peleg, who was the son of Eber,

who was the son of Shelah,

36 who was the son of Cainan,

who was the son of Arphaxad, who was the son of Shem,

who was the son of Noah, who was the son of Lamech,

37 who was the son of Methuselah, who was the son of Enoch,

who was the son of Jared, who was the son of Mahalalel,

who was the son of Cainan,

38 who was the son of Enosh,

who was the son of Seth, who was the son of Adam,

who was the son of God.



[23] And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was

supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,

[24] Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the

son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph,

[25] Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was

the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge,

[26] Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was

the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda,

[27] Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the

son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,

[28] Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the

son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er,

[29] Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the

son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi,

[30] Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the

son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim,

[31] Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the

son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David,

[32] Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the

son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson,

[33] Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the

son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,

[34] Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the

son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor,

[35] Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the

son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,

[36] Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was

the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,

[37] Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was

the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan,

[38] Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son

of Adam, which was the son of God.



John 4:46-54



The Healing of the Nobleman's Son



Mt 8:5-13; Lk 7:1-10



46 (Jn 2:1-11) So Jesus came again to Cana of Galilee where He had made

the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman whose son

was sick in Capernaum.

47 (Jn 4:3; 4:54) When he heard that Jesus had come out of Judea

into Galilee, he went to Him, pleading that He would come down

and heal his son, for he was at the point of death.

48 (Ac 2:22; 1Co 1:22) Then Jesus said to him, "Unless you see signs

and wonders, you will not believe."

49 The nobleman said to Him, "Sir, come down before my child dies."

50 (Mt 8:13) Jesus said to him, "Go your way. Your son lives."

And the man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him, and he went his way.

51 While he was going down, his servants met him

and told him, "Your son lives!"

52 When he inquired of them the hour when he began to heal, they answered,

"Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him."

53 (Ac 11:14; 16:34) Then the father knew that it was at the same hour

in which Jesus said to him, "Your son lives."

So he and his whole household believed.

54 This was the second sign that Jesus did

when He had come from Judea to Galilee.



[46] So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine.

And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.

[47] When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judaea into Galilee, he went

unto him, and besought him that he would come down, and heal his son: for he

was at the point of death.

[48] Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not

believe.

[49] The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my child die.

[50] Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And the man believed

the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and he went his way.

[51] And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him,

saying, Thy son liveth.

[52] Then inquired he of them the hour when he began to amend. And they said

unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.

[53] So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus

said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house.

[54] This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he was come out

of Judaea into Galilee.



Luke 4:16-30



The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth



Mt 13:53-58; Mk 6:1-6



16 (Lk 2:51; 2:39) He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up.

And as His custom was, He went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day.

And He stood up to read.

17 The scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to Him. When He had unrolled

the scroll, He found the place where it was written:

18 (Mt 11:5; Ps 146:7-8; Isa 42:7) "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,

because He has anointed Me

to preach the gospel to the poor;

He has sent Me to heal the broken-hearted,

to preach deliverance to the captives

and recovery of sight to the blind,

to set at liberty those who are oppressed;

19 Isa 61:2 to preach the acceptable year of the Lord."

20 (Lk 4:17; Mt 26:55) Then He rolled up the scroll, and He gave it back

to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all those who were

in the synagogue were fixed on Him.

21 And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture is fulfilled

in your hearing."

22 (Jn 6:42; Ps 45:2) All bore witness to Him, and wondered

at the gracious words which came from His mouth.

Then they said, "Is this not Joseph's son?"

23 (Mt 4:13; Mk 6:1) He said to them, "You will surely say to Me this proverb,

'Physician, heal Yourself. Whatever we have heard done in Capernaum,

do also here in Your country.' "

24 (Mt 13:57; Jn 4:44) He also said, "Truly, I say to you,

no prophet is accepted in his own country.

25 (1Ki 17:1; Jas 5:17) But I tell you truthfully, many widows were

in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heavens were closed

for three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land.

26 Yet to none of them was Elijah sent except to Zarephath, a city of Sidon,

to a woman who was a widow.

27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet.

But none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian."

28 All those in the synagogue, when they heard these things,

were filled with wrath.

29 (Nu 15:35) They rose up and thrust Him out of the city

and led Him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built,

that they might throw Him down headlong.

30 (Jn 10:39; 8:59 ) But passing through the midst of them, He went His way.



[16] And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his

custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for

to read.

[17] And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And

when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written,

[18] The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to

preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the

brokenhearted, to

preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the

blind, to

set at liberty them that are bruised,

[19] To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

[20] And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat

down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on

him.

[21] And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in

your ears.

[22] And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which

proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?

[23] And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb,

Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do

also here in thy country.

[24] And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own

country.

[25] But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of

Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great

famine was throughout all the land;

[26] But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of

Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.

[27] And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus the prophet; and

none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.

[28] And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were

filled with wrath,

[29] And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow

of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down

headlong.

[30] But he passing through the midst of them went his way,



Mark 1:16-20



The Calling of the First Disciples



Mt 4:18-22; Lk 5:1-11

16 (Mt 4:18-22; Jn 1:40-42) As He walked by the Sea of Galilee,

He saw Simon and Andrew, his brother, throwing a net into the sea,

for they were fishermen.

17 Jesus said to them, "Come, follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."

18 Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.

19 When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James

the son of Zebedee and John, his brother, who also were in the boat mending

their nets.

20 Immediately He called them. And they left their father Zebedee

in the boat with the hired servants and followed Him.



[16] Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his

brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.

[17] And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to

become fishers of men.

[18] And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.

[19] And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of

Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.

[20] And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in

the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.



Matthew 4:18-22



The Calling of the First Disciples



Mk 1:16-20; Lk 5:1-11



18 (Jn 1:40-42; Mt 15:29) As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee,

He saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother,

throwing a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.

19 And He said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men."

20 They immediately left their nets and followed Him.

21 (Mt 10:2) And going on from there, He saw two other brothers,

James the son of Zebedee and John his brother,

in a boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and He called them.

22 They immediately left the boat and their father and followed Him.



[18] And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon

called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they

were fishers.

[19] And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

[20] And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.

[21] And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of

Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending

their nets; and he called them.

[22] And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him.



Mark 1:21-28



The Man With an Unclean Spirit



Lk 4:31-37



21 (Mt 4:23; Mk 1:39) They went to Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath

He entered the synagogue and taught.

22 (Mt 7:28-29) They were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them

as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

23 In their synagogue there was a man with an unclean spirit.

24 (Ac 3:14; Mt 8:29; Lk 4:34) And he cried out, "Leave us alone! What do You

have to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us?

I know who You are, the Holy One of God."

25 (Mk 1:34) Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent and come out of him!"

26 (Mk 9:20; 9:26) When the unclean spirit had convulsed him

and cried out with a loud voice, it came out of him.

27 They were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves,

"What is this? What new teaching is this?

With authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him."

28 Immediately His fame spread everywhere throughout

the region surrounding Galilee.



[21] And they went into Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he

entered into the synagogue, and taught.

[22] And they were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one

that had authority, and not as the scribes.

[23] And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he

cried out,

[24] Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of

Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy

One of God.

[25] And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him.

[26] And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice,

he came out of him.

[27] And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among

themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with

authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.

[28] And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round

about Galilee.



Luke 4:31-37



The Man With an Unclean Spirit



Mk 1:21-28



31 (Mt 4:13) Then He went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee,

and was teaching them on the Sabbaths.

32 (Lk 4:36; Mt 7:28-29) They were astonished at His teaching,

for His word was with authority.

33 In the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit

of an unclean demon. And he cried out with a loud voice,

34 (Mk 1:24; Mt 8:29; Jas 2:19) "Leave us alone! What have You to do with us,

Jesus of Nazareth? Have You come to destroy us?

I know who You are-the Holy One of God!"

35 (Lk 4:41; Mt 8:26) Jesus rebuked him, saying, "Be silent,

and come out of him!" When the demon had thrown him down

in their midst, he came out of him and did not hurt him.

36 (Lk 4:32) They were all amazed and said among themselves,

"What a word this is! For with authority

and power He commands the unclean spirits, and they come out."

37 (Lk 4:14; Mt 9:26) And His fame went out to every place

in the surrounding countryside.



[31] And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the

sabbath days.

[32] And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.

[33] And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean

devil, and cried out with a loud voice,

[34] Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of

Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy

One of God.

[35] And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And

when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him

not.

[36] And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a

word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean

spirits, and they come out.

[37] And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round

about.



Mark 1:29-34



The Healing of Many People



Mt 8:14-17; Lk 4:38-41



29 (Mt 8:14-15; Lk 4:38-39) When He came out of the synagogue

with James and John, they went directly to the house of Simon and Andrew.

30 (1Co 9:5) The mother of Simon's wife lay sick with a fever,

and immediately they told Him of her.

31 (Ac 9:41) So He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up,

and immediately the fever left her. And she served them.

32 (Mt 8:16; Lk 4:40) In the evening, when the sun had set, they brought

to Him all who were sick and those who were possessed with demons.

33 The whole city was gathered at the door,

34 (Mk 3:12; Mt 4:23) and He healed many who were sick with various diseases

and cast out many demons. And He did not let the demons speak,

because they knew Him.



[29] And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered

into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John.

[30] But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him

of her.

[31] And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her up; and

immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.

[32] And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were

diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.

[33] And all the city was gathered together at the door.

[34] And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many

devils; and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.



Matthew 8:14-17



The Healing of Many People



Mk 1:29-34; Lk 4:38-41



14 (1Co 9:5) When Jesus entered Peter's house, He saw his wife's mother,

lying sick with a fever.

15 He touched her hand, and the fever left her. And she rose and served them.

16 When the evening came, they brought to Him many who were possessed

with demons. And He cast out the spirits with His word,

and healed all who were sick,

17 (Isa 53:4; Mt 1:22) to fulfill what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet,

"He Himself took our infirmities

and bore our sicknesses."[Isa 53:4].



[14] And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother

laid, and sick of a fever.

[15] And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and

ministered unto them.

[16] When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed

with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that

were sick:

[17] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet,

saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.



Luke 4:38-41



The Healing of Many People



Mt 8:14-17; Mk 1:29-34



38 (Mt 8:14-15; Mk 1:29-31) He went out of the synagogue

and entered Simon's house. Now Simon's mother-in-law was taken

ill with a high fever, and they asked Him about her.

39 (Lk 4:35; 8:24) So He stood over her and rebuked the fever,

and it left her. And immediately she rose and served them.

40 (Mt 8:16-17; Mk 1:32-34) Now when the sun was setting,

all those who had anyone sick with various diseases brought

them to Him. And He laid His hands on every one of them

and healed them.

41 (Mk 1:34; 3:11) And demons came out of many, crying out,

"You are the Christ, the Son of God!" But He rebuked them

and did not permit them to speak, because they knew that

He was the Christ.



Mark 1:35-39



A Preaching Tour



Lk 4:42-44

35 (Lk 6:12; Eph 6:18)In the morning, rising up a great while before sunrise,

He went out and departed to a solitary place. And there He prayed.

36 Simon and those who were with Him followed Him,

37 (Jn 12:19) and when they found Him, they said to Him,

"Everyone is searching for You."

38 He said to them, "Let us go into the nearby towns,

that I may preach there also. For that is why I have come."

39 (Mt 4:23; Mk 1:21) So He preached in their synagogues throughout Galilee

and cast out demons.



[35] And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out,

and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

[36] And Simon and they that were with him followed after him.

[37] And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee.

[38] And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach

there also: for therefore came I forth.

[39] And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast

out devils.



Luke 4:42-44



Preaching in the Synagogues



Mk 1:35-39



42 When it was day He departed and went into a remote place.

And searching for Him, the people came to Him and tried

to prevent Him from leaving them.

43 But He said to them, "I must preach the kingdom of God

to other cities also, for this is why I was sent."

44 (Mt 4:23; Mk 1:39) And He was preaching in the synagogues

of Galilee.



[42] And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place: and the

people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not

depart from them.

[43] And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities

also: for therefore am I sent.

[44] And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.



Matthew 4:23-25



Ministering to Great Crowds



Lk 6:17-19



23 (Mt 9:35; 13:54; Mk 1:21) Jesus went throughout all Galilee teaching

in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom,

and healing all kinds of sickness and all sorts of diseases among the people.

24 (Mt 8:6; 17:15) His fame went throughout all Syria. And they brought

to Him all sick people who were taken with various diseases

and tormented with pain, those who were possessed with demons,

those who had seizures, and those who had paralysis, and He healed them.

25 (Lk 6:17; Mk 5:20) Great crowds followed Him from Galilee, the Decapolis,

Jerusalem, Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.



[23] And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and

preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and

all manner of disease among the people.

[24] And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all

sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those

which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those

that had the palsy; and he healed them.

[25] And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and

from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.



2) Our Daily Bread for 27 September 2022



Entitled "God's Help for Our Future"




Psalm 90:12-17



12 So teach us to number our days,

that we may apply our hearts to wisdom.

13 Return, O Lord, how long?

Have mercy on Your servants.

14 Satisfy us in the early morning with Your mercy,

that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

15 Make us glad according to the days that You have afflicted us,

and the years that we have seen evil.

16 Let Your work be displayed to Your servants

and Your glory to their children.

17 Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,

and establish the work of our hands among us;

yes, establish the work of our hands.



12 So teach us to number our days,

That we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

13 Return, O LORD, how long?

And let it repent thee concerning thy servants.

14 O satisfy us early with thy mercy;

That we may rejoice and be glad all our days.

15 Make us glad according to the days wherein thou hast afflicted us,

And the years wherein we have seen evil.

16 Let thy work appear unto thy servants,

And thy glory unto their children.

17 And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us:

And establish thou the work of our hands upon us;

Yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.



According to psychologist Meg Jay, our minds tend to think about our future

selves similarly to how we think about complete strangers. Why? It's probably

due to what's sometimes called the "empathy gap." It can be hard to empathise

and care for people we don't know personally-even future versions of

ourselves. So in her work, Jay tries to help young people imagine their future

selves and take steps to care for them. This includes working out actionable

plans for who they will one day be-paving the way for them to pursue their

dreams and to continue to thrive.



In Psalm 90, we're invited to see our lives not just in the present, but as a

whole-to ask God to help us "number our days, that we may gain a heart of

wisdom" (v. 12). Remembering that our time on earth is limited can remind us

of our desperate need to rely on God. We need His help to learn how to find

satisfaction and joy-not just now, but "all our days" (v. 14). We need His

help to learn to think not just of ourselves, but of future generations (v.

16). And we need His help to serve Him with the time we've been given-as He

establishes the work of our hands and hearts (v. 17).



By: Monica La Rose



Reflect & Pray



How might you grow in taking care of your future self? How does keeping

the bigger picture of your life in view help you to better serve others?



Dear God, thank You for the gift of life. Help me

to cherish it with the time I’ve been given. Thank You that when my walk

with You on earth is over, I can look forward to an eternity of fellowship

with You.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 3 The Kind Heart of Forgiveness



Eph 4:32



32 (2Co 2:10; Col 3:12-13; Mt 6:12) And be kind one to another,

tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you.



32 and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another,

even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.



Don had lost his job because he stood against his boss and refused to

compromise his Christian principles. Certain friends in the company had

turned against him, choosing to save their own jobs at any cost,

and he felt very alone, abandoned when he most needed the support

of those who cared.

But Don showed no signs of bitterness or unforgiveness. He refused to

recite the details of his firing to those around him, saying simply and

honestly, " I believe my boss was wrong in what he did. But God can show

him." The kindness of Don's heart ., and the tenderness with which he

extended forgiveness, became a testimony to all who knew him. Don's

boss never "saw the light", never repented, but Don lived in the freedom of

forgiving.

Comparison is a rare commodity among Christains today. We seem to be

overstocked with judgment and crammed full of condemnation, but we have

little space in the corners of our lives for tenderheartedness. We are quick

to assume that we know another person's heart and have the remedy for

the problem, rather then giving that person the benefit of the doubt,

the room to grow, the freedom to make a mistake and seek forgiveness.

Jesus demonstrated the king compassion necessary in forgiveness when he

looked down at the soldiers who has crucified him, gambling at his feet

for his cloak, and said, "Father , forgive them, for they do not know what

are doing."

When others hurt and betray us, they often "do not know what they are

doing." we can, in Christ, offer compassionate forgiveness to them -

not condoning their actions or excusing their wrong, but forgiving ,

in the simplicity and purity of God's love.



Application



a) What is the difference between excusing a wrong and forgiving?



b) How has God forgiven me for Christ's sake?



c) What does today's verse tell me about my attitude in forgiveness?



) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Haggai 2:7-9



7 (1Ki 8:11; Isa 60:7) And I will shake all the nations,

and they will come with the wealth of all nations,

and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of Hosts.

8 (Isa 60:17) The silver is mine, and the gold is Mine,

says the Lord of Hosts.

9 (Isa 9:6-7) The glory of this latter house will be greater

than the former, says the Lord of Hosts. And in this place

I will give peace, says the Lord of Hosts.



7 and I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations

shall come: and I will fill this house with glory,

saith the LORD of hosts.

8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine,

saith the LORD of hosts.

9 The glory of this latter house shall be greater

than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place

will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Help in Times of Temptation



James 1:12-18



Trial and Temptation



12 (Jas 2:5; 1Co 9:25; 2Ti 4:8) Blessed is the man who endures temptation,

for when he is tried, he will receive the crown of life,

which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.

13 Let no man say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God,"

for God cannot be tempted with evil; neither does He tempt anyone.

14 But each man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed.

15 (Job 15:35; Ps 7:14) Then, when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin;

and when sin is finished, it brings forth death.

16 (Jas 1:19; 2:5) Do not err, my beloved brothers.

17 (Mal 3:6; Nu 23:19; Jn 3:27) Every good gift and every perfect gift

is from above and comes down from the Father of lights,

with whom is no change or shadow of turning.

18 (1Pe 1:23; Jn 1:13; Rev 14:4) Of His own will He brought us forth with

the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.



12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried,

he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised

to them that love him.

13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God:

for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:

14 but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust,

and enticed.

15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin:

and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.

17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,

and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,

neither shadow of turning.

18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth,

that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 27 of the Month



a) Pray that God's Spirit will melt the pride that causes many to

hold to wrong opinions of Christ and His Salvation.



(



2 Cor 10:4-5



4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal,

but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds,

5 casting down imaginations and every high thing

that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,

bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,



4 (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal,

but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

5casting down imaginations, and every high thing

that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,

and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;



)



b) Pray that the Lord will awaken a desire in the hearts of those who

are lost to seek Him and to seek The Truth.





Pray to the Lord and pray to accept his gift of Salvation and never to

reject Him.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, thank You for the gift of life. Help me

to cherish it with the time I’ve been given. Thank You that when my walk

with You on earth is over, I can look forward to an eternity of fellowship

with You."



Pray to the Lord and pray to have an attitude of forgiveness.



Pray to the Lord and remember everything belongs to Him.



Pray to the Lord and pray to give Him all your temptations .



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that God's Spirit will melt the pride that causes many to

hold to wrong opinions of Christ and His Salvation.



Pray that the Lord will awaken a desire in the hearts of those who

are lost to seek Him and to seek The Truth.



Pray for Christians who have been arrested in Somaliland, and for their

concerned families.



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.

Day 269 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 26 September 2022 reflections

Day 269, 26 September 2022



1) John 3

John 4:1-45

Luke 3:19-20



John 3



Jesus and Nicodemus



1 (Jn 19:39) There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus,

a ruler of the Jews.

2 (Ac 2:22; 10:38) He came to Jesus by night and said to Him,

"Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher who has come from God.

For no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him."

3 (Jn 1:13; 3:5-6) Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly I say to you,

unless a man is born again,

[Gk. a litra, or half a liter. he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

4 Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old?

Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?”

5 (Ac 2:38; Eze 36:25-27; Mk 16:16) Jesus answered, "Truly, truly

I say to you, unless a man is born of water and the Spirit,

he cannot enter the kingdom of God.

6 (Ge 6:12; Job 14:4) That which is born of the flesh is flesh,

and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

7 (Jn 3:3; 5:28) Do not marvel that I said to you,

'You must be born again.'

8 (Eze 37:9; 1Co 2:11) The wind blows where it wishes,

and you hear its sound, but you do not know where

it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone

who is born of the Spirit."

9 (Jn 6:52; 6:60) Nicodemus said to Him, "How can this be?"

10 Jesus answered him, "Are you the teacher of Israel,

but you do not know these things?

11 (Jn 1:18; 7:16) Truly, truly I say to you, We speak of what

We know and bear witness of what We have seen, but you do not

receive Our testimony.

12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe,

how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?

13 (Pr 30:4; Jn 1:18; 6:38) No one has ascended to heaven except

He who descended from heaven, even the Son of Man who is in heaven.

14 (Jn 8:28) Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,

even so must the Son of Man be lifted up,

15 (Jn 3:16; 3:36) that whoever believes in Him should not perish,

but may have eternal life.

16 (Ro 5:8; 1Jn 4:9-10; Jn 1-18) "For God so loved the world

that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him

should not perish, but have eternal life.

17 (1Jn 4:14; Lk 19:10) For God did not send His Son into the world

to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

18 (Jn 5:24; Mk 16:16) He who believes in Him is not condemned.

But he who does not believe is condemned already,

because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

19 (Jn 1:4; 8:12) This is the verdict, that light has come into the world,

and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

20 For everyone who does evil hates the light and does not

come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.

21 (1Jn 1:6; Ps 139:23-24) But he who does the truth comes to the light,

that it may be revealed that his deeds have been done in God."



Jesus and John the Baptist



22 (Jn 3:26) After these things Jesus and His disciples came

into the land of Judea. He remained with them there and baptized.

23 John also was baptizing in Aenon toward Salim, because much water

was there. And people came and were baptized.

24 (Mt 4:12; 14:3) For John had not yet been put in prison.

25 (Jn 2:6) Then a dispute arose between some of John's disciples

and the Jews about ceremonial cleansing.

26 (Jn 1:7; 12:19) They came to John and said to him,

"Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you bore witness,

look, He is baptising, and everyone is going to Him."

27 (1Co 4:7; Jas 1:17) John answered, "A man can receive nothing

unless it has been given to him from heaven.

28 (Jn 1:20; 1:23) You yourselves bear witness of me, that I said,

'I am not the Christ,' but 'I have been sent before Him.'

29 (Mt 9:15; SS 5:1) He who has the bride is the bridegroom.

But the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him,

rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine

is fulfilled. 30He must increase, but I must decrease."



He Who Comes From Heaven



31 (Jn 8:23; Mt 28:18; Jn 6:33) He who comes from above is above all.

He who is of the earth is earthly and speaks of the earth.

He who comes from heaven is above all.

32 (Jn 3:11; 1:11; 8:26) He bears witness of what He has seen and heard,

yet no one receives His testimony.

33 He who has received His testimony has certified that God is true.

34 (Jn 3:17; Lk 4:18) For He whom God has sent speaks the words of God,

for God gives the Spirit without measure to Him.

35 (Mt 28:18; Jn 5:20) The Father loves the Son, and has placed all things

into His hand.

36 (Jn 5:24; 3:15-16) He who believes in the Son has eternal life.

He who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God

remains on him.



John 3

[1] There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:

[2] The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that

thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that

thou doest, except God be with him.

[3] Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee,

Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

[4] Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he

enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?

[5] Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of

water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

[6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the

Spirit is spirit.

[7] Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.

[8] The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof,

but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one

that is born of the Spirit.

[9] Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?

[10] Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and

knowest not these things?

[11] Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify

that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.

[12] If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye

believe, if I tell you of heavenly things?

[13] And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from

heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.

[14] And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the

Son of man be lifted up:

[15] That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

[16] For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that

whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

[17] For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that

the world through him might be saved.

[18] He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is

condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only

begotten Son of God.

[19] And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and

men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.

[20] For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the

light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

[21] But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be

made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

[22] After these things came Jesus and his disciples into the land of

Judaea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.

[23] And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was

much water there: and they came, and were baptized.

[24] For John was not yet cast into prison.

[25] Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the

Jews about purifying.

[26] And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with

thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same

baptizeth, and all men come to him.

[27] John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given

him from heaven.

[28] Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but

that I am sent before him.

[29] He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the

bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of

the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled.

[30] He must increase, but I must decrease.

[31] He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is

earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.

[32] And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man

receiveth his testimony.

[33] He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is

true.

[34] For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not

the Spirit by measure unto him.

[35] The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.

[36] He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that

believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on

him.



John 4



Jesus and the Samaritan Woman



1 (Jn 3:22; 3:26) Now when the Lord learned that the Pharisees

had heard that Jesus was making and baptizing more disciples than John

2 (though Jesus Himself did not baptize, but His disciples),

3 He left Judea and departed again to Galilee.

4 Now it was necessary that He go through Samaria.

5 (Ge 33:19; 48:22) So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar,

near the plot of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.

6 (Mt 4:2; 8:24) Jacob's well was there. Jesus, therefore, being exhausted

from His journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.

7 A woman of Samaria came there to draw water.

Jesus said to her, "Give Me a drink."

8 For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.

9 (Jn 8:48; Mt 10:5) Then the woman of Samaria said to Him,

"How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a woman of Samaria?"

For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.

10 (Jer 2:13; Jn 4:14) Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God,

and who it is who is saying to you, 'Give Me a drink,'

you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water."

11 The woman said to Him, "Sir, You have nothing to draw with,

and the well is deep. Where then do You get that living water?

12 (Jn 8:53) Are You greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well

and drank from it himself, along with his sons and his livestock?"

13 Jesus said to her, "Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again,

14 (Jn 6:35; Isa 49:10) but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give

him will never thirst. Indeed, the water that I shall give him will become

in him a well of water springing up into eternal life."

15 (Jn 6:34) The woman said to Him, "Sir, give me this water, so that

I will not thirst, nor come here to draw."

16 Jesus said to her, "Go, call your husband, and come here."

17 The woman answered, "I have no husband."

Jesus said to her, "You are right in saying, 'I have no husband,'

18 for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have

is not your husband. So you have spoken truthfully."

19 (Lk 7:16; 7:39) The woman said to Him, "Sir, I perceive

that You are a prophet.

20 (Ge 12:6-7; Dt 11:29) Our fathers worshipped on this mountain,

but you all say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship."

21 (Mal 1:11; 1Ti 2:8) Jesus said to her, "Woman, believe Me,

the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor

in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.

22 (Isa 2:3; Ro 9:4-5) You worship what you do not know; we know

what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews.

23 (Php 3:3; Jn 5:25) Yet the hour is coming, and is now here,

when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.

For the Father seeks such to worship Him.

24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him

in spirit and truth."

25 (Jn 4:29) The woman said to Him, “"I know that Messiah is coming"

(who is called Christ). "When He comes, He will tell us all things."

26 Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am He."

27 (Lk 7:39; Jn 4:8-9) Then His disciples came. They marveled that He talked

with a woman. Yet no one said, "What do You seek?"

or, "Why are You talking with her?"

28 The woman then left her water pot, went her way into the city,

and said to the men,

29 (Jn 4:17-18; 4:25) "Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did.

Could this be the Christ?"

30 They went out of the city and came to Him.

31 Meanwhile His disciples urged Him, saying, "Rabbi, eat."

32 (Job 23:12)But He said to them,

"I have food to eat of which you do not know."

33 Therefore the disciples said one to another,

"Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?"

34 (Jn 6:38; 17:4) Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of Him

who sent Me, and to finish His work.

35 (Mt 9:37-38; Jn 4:30) Do you not say, 'There are yet four months,

and then comes the harvest'? Listen! I say to you, lift up your eyes

and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest.

36 (Ro 1:13) He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit that leads

to eternal life, that both he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.

37 (Mic 6:15; Job 31:8) For in this is the saying true, 'One sows,

and another reaps.'

38 (Ac 8:14-17) I sent you to reap a crop for which you did not labor.

And you have benefited from their labor."

39 (Jn 4:29; 4:5) Many of the Samaritans of that city believed in Him

because of the word of the woman who testified,

"He told me all that I ever did."

40 So when the Samaritans came to Him, they asked Him to remain with them.

And He stayed there two days.

41 And many more believed because of His word.

42 (1Jn 4:14; Jn 1:29; 2Co 5:19) They said to the woman, "Now we believe,

not because of what you said, for we have heard for ourselves

and know that this Man is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world."



The Healing of the Nobleman's Son



Mt 8:5-13; Lk 7:1-10



43 (Jn 4:40) After the two days He departed from there and went to Galilee.

44 (Mt 13:57; Lk 4:24) For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor

in his own country.

45 (Jn 2:23; 3:2) Then, when He came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed Him,

having seen all the things He did at Jerusalem at the feast.

For they had also gone to the feast.



John 4

[1] When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made

and baptized more disciples than John,

[2] (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)

[3] He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee.

[4] And he must needs go through Samaria.

[5] Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the

parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph.

[6] Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his

journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour.

[7] There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her,

Give me to drink.

[8] (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)

[9] Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a

Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no

dealings with the Samaritans.

[10] Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and

who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of

him, and he would have given thee living water.

[11] The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the

well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water?

[12] Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and

drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?

[13] Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water

shall thirst again:

[14] But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never

thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water

springing up into everlasting life.

[15] The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not,

neither come hither to draw.

[16] Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.

[17] The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her,

Thou hast well said, I have no husband:

[18] For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy

husband: in that saidst thou truly.

[19] The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

[20] Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem

is the place where men ought to worship.

[21] Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall

neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.

[22] Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is

of the Jews.

[23] But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall

worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to

worship him.

[24] God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit

and in truth.

[25] The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called

Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.

[26] Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

[27] And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the

woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her?

[28] The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and

saith to the men,

[29] Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this

the Christ?

[30] Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.

[31] In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat.

[32] But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.

[33] Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him

ought to eat?

[34] Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me,

and to finish his work.

[35] Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold,

I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are

white already to harvest.

[36] And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life

eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.

[37] And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.

[38] I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men

laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

[39] And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying

of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.

[40] So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he

would tarry with them: and he abode there two days.

[41] And many more believed because of his own word;

[42] And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for

we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the

Saviour of the world.

[43] Now after two days he departed thence, and went into Galilee.

[44] For Jesus himself testified, that a prophet hath no honour in his own

country.

[45] Then when he was come into Galilee, the Galilaeans received him, having

seen all the things that he did at Jerusalem at the feast: for they also

went unto the feast.



Luke 3:19-20



19 (Mk 6:17-18; Lk 3:1) But Herod the tetrarch, being rebuked by him

because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils

which Herod had done,

20 added also this above them all: He locked John up in prison.



[19] But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother

Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done,

[20] Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.



2) Our Daily Bread for 26 September 2022



Entitled "The Miracle of Salvation"




John 11:38–44



Lazarus Brought to Life



38 (Mt 27:60; Jn 11:33) Then Jesus, again groaning within Himself,

came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone was lying against it.

39 (Jn 11:17) Jesus said, "Take away the stone."

Martha, the sister of him who was dead, said to Him,

"Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days."

40 (Jn 11:4; 11:23-26) Jesus said to her,

"Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"

41 (Jn 17:1; Mt 11:25) So they took away the stone from the place where

the dead man was lying. Jesus lifted up His eyes and said,

"Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.

42 (Jn 3:17; 17:21) I know that You always hear Me. But because of the people

standing around, I said this, that they may believe that You sent Me."

43 When He had said this, He cried out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!"

44 (Jn 20:7; 19:40) He who was dead came out, his hands and feet wrapped

with grave clothes, and his face wrapped with a cloth.

Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go."



[38] Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a

cave, and a stone lay upon it.

[39] Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was

dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead

four days.

[40] Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest

believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?

[41] Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid.

And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast

heard me.

[42] And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which

stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.

[43] And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come

forth.

[44] And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes:

and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose

him, and let him go.



Blogger Kevin Lynn's life seemed to be falling apart. In a recent article he

recounted, "I actually put a gun to my head . . . . It took for God to

supernaturally step into my room and my life. And at that moment, I really

found what I know is God now." God intervened and prevented Lynn from taking

his life. He filled him with conviction and gave him an overwhelming reminder

of His loving presence. Instead of hiding this powerful encounter, Lynn shared

his experience with the world, creating a YouTube ministry where he shares his

own transformation story as well as the stories of others.



When Jesus' follower and friend Lazarus died, many assumed that Jesus was too

late (John 11:32). Lazarus had been in his tomb for four days before Christ

arrived, but He turned this moment of anguish into a miracle when He raised

him from the dead (v. 38). "Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will

see the glory of God?" (v. 40).



Just as Jesus raised Lazarus from death to life, He offers us new life through

Him. By sacrificing His life on the cross, Christ paid the penalty for our

sins and offers us forgiveness when we accept His gift of grace. We're freed

from the bondage of our sins, renewed by His everlasting love, and given the

opportunity to change the course of our lives.



By: Kimya Loder



Reflect & Pray



What are some of the miraculous ways that God has turned your life around?

How might you use your testimony to bring others closer to Him?



Heavenly Father, sometimes I take for granted how

You've transformed my life. Thank You for never giving up on me.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 2 - The key to the Prison Cell



Matt 6:14-15



14 For if you forgive men for their sins, your heavenly Father will

also forgive you. 15 But if you do not forgive men for their sins,

neither will your Father forgive your sins.



14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will

also forgive you: 15 but if ye forgive not men their trespasses,

neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.



Ann had been badly wounded in a relationship that had ended in anger

and accusation. For more than a year, Ann nursed her bitterness, rallying

support for her attitudes from friends and colleagues. Any time she saw

her former friend, Ann put up an icy wall of hostility. She thought she was

"getting over" the hurt, but the very mention of her friend's name brought

back a flood of negative feelings. Ann was trapped, locked in a prison of

unforgiveness , a jail built block by block by her own unwillingness to

forgive. Ann didn't "get over it"; instead, her wounds festered

and her bitterness grew worse.

Then one day - she never knew how - Ann let go of her bitterness. The barriers

of hostility and anger melted away, and when she saw her friend again, she was

able to forgive. And Ann was finally able to turn to the Lord for her own

healing and forgiveness.

"If you do not forgive," Jesus says - and the statement falls hard on

unforgiving hearts, "Neither will you be forgiven." In one sense, God's

forgiveness is unconditional - we do not have to earn or deserve it, and it is

always available to us. But we cannot experience the forgiveness God has

extended to us when we harbour unforgiveness towards others and build walls

of bitterness in our hearts.

When we refuse forgiveness toward those who have hurt or betrayed us, we do

not keep them in bondage, but ourselves. We lock ourselves away for an

awareness of God's loving presence; we imprison ourselves in a cell of

revenge. But when we reach out to forgive, we turn in the lock;

the door is open for our own sins to be forgiven and our own hearts

cleansed and purified.



Application



a) Why is forgiving others a condition for experiencing forgiveness

in my own life?



b) How can these verses have a practical effect upon my willingness

to forgive others?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Luke 7:23



23 (Isa 8:14-15) "And Blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me."



23 And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Guiding Presence



Matthew 28:16-20



The Commissioning of the Disciples



Mk 16:14-18; Lk 24:36-49; Jn 20:19-23; Ac 1:6-8



16 (Mt 28:7; 26:32)Then the eleven disciples went away to Galilee,

to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.

17 (Mt 28:9) When they saw Him, they worshipped Him. But some doubted.

18 (Mt 11:27; Ro 14:9) Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying,

"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.

19 (Mk 16:15-16; Ac 1:8) Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,

baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son

and of the Holy Spirit,

20 (Mt 18:20; Ac 2:42) teaching them to observe all things

I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always,

even to the end of the age." Amen.



16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee,

into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.

17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying,

All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name

of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

20 teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:

and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 26 of the Month



a) Pray that Christians in the marketplace will demonstrate exemplary

work ethics and shine as witnesses of Christ (Matt 5:16



16 Let your light so shine before men that they may

see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.



16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your

good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.



)



b) Pray for the Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut



I) Pray for the leaders of Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut,

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.



1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2 for kings, and for all that are in authority;

that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

4 who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto 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



)





Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for being love and understanding.



Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, sometimes I take for granted how

You've transformed my life. Thank You for never giving up on me."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be a truly forgiving person.



Pray to the Lord and pray not to be an offence in the Lord's eyes.



Pray to the Lord and pray to make disciples in salvation and baptism in

Jesus Christ .



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that Christians in the marketplace will demonstrate exemplary

work ethics and shine as witnesses of Christ



Pray that Yahweh will deliver Christians in Maiduguri state in Nigeria

from the hands of Boko Haram Mercenaries.



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.

Day 268 of My Second Bible Study Journey - 25 September reflections

Day 268, 25 September 2022



Today at https://www.calvarycommunity.ca , Pastor Bev Sesink

preached on a Love Letter Philippians 1:3-8



Paul's Prayer for the Philippians



A Heart of Gratitude



3 (Ro 1:8-9; 2Ti 1:3) I thank my God for every reminder of you.

[3] I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,



A heart of Joyful Prayer



4 (Ro 1:9) In every prayer of mine for you all, I have always made requests

with joy,

[4] Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,



A Heart of Belonging



5 (Ac 16:12-40; Php 1:7) due to your fellowship in the gospel from the first

day until now.

[5] For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;



A heart of Assurance



6 (1Co 1:8; Jn 6:29) I am confident of this very thing, that He who began

a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.

[6] Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work

in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:



A heart of Affection



7 (2Co 7:3; Ac 20:23) It is right for me to think this of you all because

I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonments and in the defense

and confirmation of the gospel, you all are fellow partakers of my grace.

[7] Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you

in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and

confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.



8 (Ro 1:9; 9:1) For God is my witness, how I long after you all with

the affection of Jesus Christ.

[8] For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of

Jesus Christ.



1) John 1:35-51

Mark 1:12-13

Matthew 4:1-11

Luke 4:1-15

John 2



John 1:35-51



The First Disciples

35 Again, the next day John was standing with two of his disciples.

36 Looking upon ­Jesus as He walked, he said, "Look, the Lamb of God!"

37 The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.

38 Then Jesus turned, saw them following, and said to them,

"What do you seek?"

And they said to Him, "Rabbi" (which means Teacher), "where are You staying?"

39 Jesus said to them, "Come and see."

So they came and saw where He stayed and remained with Him that day,

for it was about the tenth hour.

40 One of the two who heard John speak, and followed Him, was Andrew,

Simon Peter's brother.

41 He first found his own brother Simon, and said to him,

"We have found the Messiah" (which means the Christ).

42 Then he brought him to Jesus.

When Jesus saw him, He said, "You are Simon the son of John.

You shall be called Cephas" (which means Peter).



The Calling of Philip and Nathanael



43 The next day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip,

and said to him, "Follow Me."

44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.

45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom

Moses in the law, as well as the prophets, wrote, Jesus of Nazareth,

the son of Joseph."

46 Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?"

Philip said to him, "Come and see."

47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him and said concerning him,

"Here is an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.

48 Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?"

Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were

under the fig tree, I saw you."

49 Nathanael answered Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God!

You are the King of Israel!"

50 Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under

the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."

51 And He said to him, "Truly, truly I say to you, hereafter you shall see

heaven opened and the angels of God ascending

and descending upon the Son of Man."



[35] Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;

[36] And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!

[37] And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.

[38] Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What

seek ye? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted,

Master,) where dwellest thou?

[39] He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and

abode with him that day: for it was about the tenth hour.

[40] One of the two which heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew,

Simon Peter's brother.

[41] He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have

found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.

[42] And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou

art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by

interpretation, A stone.

[43] The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth

Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.

[44] Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.

[45] Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of

whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the

son of Joseph.

[46] And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of

Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.

[47] Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an

Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!

[48] Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and

said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig

tree, I saw thee.

[49] Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God;

thou art the King of Israel.

[50] Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee

under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than

these.

[51] And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye

shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon

the Son of man.





Mark 1:12-13



The Temptation of Jesus

Mt 4:1-11; Lk 4:1-13



12 (Mt 4:1-11) The Spirit immediately drove Him into the wilderness.

13 (Mt 26:53; Heb 4:15) And He was there in the wilderness for forty days,

tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts.

And the angels ministered to Him.



[12] And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness.

[13] And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan;

and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him.



Matthew 4:1-11



The Temptation of Jesus



Mk 1:12-13; Lk 4:1-13



1 (Lk 4:1-13; Heb 2:18) Then Jesus was led up into the wilderness

by the Spirit to be tempted by the devil.

2 (1Ki 19:8; Ex 34:28) And He had fasted for forty days and forty nights,

and then He was hungry.

3 (1Th 3:5; Mt 3:17) And the tempter came to Him and said,

"If You are the Son of God, command that these stones be turned into bread."

4 (Dt 8:3; Lk 4:4; Mt 4:7) But He answered, "It is written,

'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds

out of the mouth of God.'Ex 20:12; Dt 5:16."

5 (Mt 27:53; Ne 11:1) Then the devil took Him up into the holy city,

and set Him on the highest point of the temple,

6 (Ps 91:11-12) and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God,

throw Yourself down. For it is written,

'He shall give His angels charge concerning you,' Ps 91:11-12.

and

'In their hands they shall lift you up,

lest at any time you dash your foot against a stone.' Ps 91:12."

7 (Dt 6:16; Mt 4:4) Jesus said to him, "It is also written,

'You shall not tempt the Lord your God.' Dt 6:16."

8 (Mt 16:26; 1Jn 2:15-16) Again, the devil took Him up on a very high

mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their grandeur,

9 and said to Him, "All these things I will give You if You will fall down

and worship me. "

10 (1Ch 21:1; Dt 10:20) Then Jesus said to him, "Get away from here, Satan!

For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God,

and Him only shall you serve.'Dt 6:13. "

11 (Mt 26:53; Lk 22:43; Heb 1:14) Then the devil left Him,

and immediately angels came and ministered to Him.

Matthew 4

[1] Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of

the devil.

[2] And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an

hungred.

[3] And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God,

command that these stones be made bread.

[4] But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread

alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

[5] Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a

pinnacle of the temple,

[6] And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it

is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their

hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a

stone.

[7] Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord

thy God.

[8] Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and

sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;

[9] And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall

down and worship me.

[10] Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written,

Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

[11] Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered

unto him.



Luke 4:1-15



The Temptation of Jesus



Mt 4:1-11; Mk 1:12-13



1 (Mt 4:1-11; Mk 1:12-13) Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit,

returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,

2 (1Ki 19:8; Ex 34:28) being tempted by the devil for forty days.

During those days He ate nothing. And when they were ended, He was hungry.

3 The devil said to Him, "If You are the Son of God,

command this stone to become bread."

4 (Dt 8:3; Lk 4:8) Jesus answered him, "It is written,

'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.'Dt 8:3."

5 The devil, taking Him up onto a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms

of the world in a moment of time.

6 (Jn 12:31; 14:30) And the devil said to Him, "I will give You all this power

and their glory, for it has been delivered to me. And I give it to whomever

I will.

7 If You, then, will worship me, all will be Yours."

8 (Dt 6:13; Mt 4:10) And Jesus answered him,

"Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written,

'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.'Dt 6:13."

9 (Mt 4:5-6; Lk 4:3) He brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle

of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself

down from here.

10 (Ps 91:11-12) For it is written:

'He shall give His angels charge concerning you,

to preserve you,'

11 and

'In their hands they shall hold you up,

lest you strike your foot against a stone.'Ps 91:11–12."

12 (Dt 6:16) Jesus answered him,

"It is said, 'You shall not tempt the Lord your God.'Dt 6:16."

13 (Jn 14:30; Heb 4:15) When the devil had ended all the temptations,

he departed from Him until another time.



The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry



Mt 4:12-17; Mk 1:14-15

14 (Mt 4:12) Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee.

And His fame went throughout the surrounding region. 1

15 (Mt 4:23) He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by everyone.



Luke 4

[1] And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was

led by the Spirit into the wilderness,

[2] Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat

nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.

[3] And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this

stone that it be made bread.

[4] And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not

live by bread alone, but by every word of God.

[5] And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain, shewed unto him

all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time.

[6] And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and

the glory of them: for that is delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I

will I give it.

[7] If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine.

[8] And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for

it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt

thou serve.

[9] And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the

temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down

from hence:

[10] For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to

keep thee:

[11] And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou

dash thy foot against a stone.

[12] And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt

the Lord thy God.

[13] And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him

for a season.

[14] And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there

went out a fame of him through all the region round about.

[15] And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.





John 2



The Wedding at Cana



1 (Jn 4:46; 21:2) On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee.

The mother of Jesus was there.

2 Both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding.

3 When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to Him, "They have no wine."

4 (Jn 7:6; 7:30) Jesus said to her, "Woman, what does this have to do with Me?

My hour has not yet come."

5 His mother said to the servants, "Whatever He says to you, do it."

6 (Jn 3:25) Six water pots made of stone were sitting there, used

for ceremonial cleansing by the Jews, containing twenty to thirty gallons

[Gk. 2 to 3 metretes, or 75 to 115 liters.] each.

7 Jesus said to them, "Fill the water pots with water."

And they filled them up to the brim.

8 Then He said to them, "Now draw some out, and take it to the master

of the feast." And they took it.

9 (Jn 4:46) When the master of the feast tasted the water that had been

turned into wine, and did not know where it came from

(though the servants who drew the water knew), the master of the feast

called the bridegroom,

10 and he said to him, "Every man serves the good wine first, and after men

have drunk freely, then the poor wine is served.

But you have kept the good wine until now."

11 (Jn 1:14; 3:2) This, the first of His signs, Jesus did in Cana of Galilee,

and He revealed His glory, and His disciples believed in Him.

12 (Mt 12:46; 4:13) After this He, and His mother, and His brothers,

and His disciples went down to Capernaum. They remained there a few days.



The Cleansing of the Temple



Mt 21:12-17; Mk 11:15-17; Lk 19:45-48



13 (Lk 2:41; Jn 11:55) The Passover of the Jews was at hand,

and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.

14 (Mk 11:15; Lk 19:45-46) In the temple He found those who were selling oxen

and sheep and doves, and the moneychangers sitting there.

15 When He had made a whip of cords, He drove them all out of the temple,

with the sheep and oxen. He poured out the changers' money

and overturned the tables.

16 (Lk 2:49) He said to those who sold doves,

"Take these things away!

Do not make My Father's house a house of merchandise!"

17 (Ps 69:9) His disciples remembered that it was written,

"Zeal for Your house will consume Me."Ps 69:9.

18 (Jn 6:30) Then the Jews said to Him, "What sign do You show us,

seeing that You do these things?"

19 (Mt 27:40; Mk 14:58) Jesus answered them,

"Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up."

20 Then the Jews said, "It has taken 46 years to build this temple,

and will You raise it up in three days?"

21 (1Co 6:19; Jn 1:14) But He was speaking concerning the temple of His body.

22 (Jn 12:16; 14:26) Therefore, when He was raised from the dead,

His disciples remembered that He had said this to them.

And they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken.



Jesus Knows All Men



23 (Jn 3:2) Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast,

many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did.

24 (Mt 9:4; Jn 5:42) But Jesus did not entrust Himself to them,

because He knew all men,

25 and did not need anyone to bear

witness of man, for He knew what was in man.



John 2

[1] And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the

mother of Jesus was there:

[2] And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.

[3] And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have

no wine.

[4] Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is

not yet come.

[5] His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

[6] And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the

purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.

[7] Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled

them up to the brim.

[8] And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the

feast. And they bare it.

[9] When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and

knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the

governor of the feast called the bridegroom,

[10] And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good

wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast

kept the good wine until now.

[11] This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested

forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.

[12] After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his

brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.

[13] And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem,

[14] And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and

the changers of money sitting:

[15] And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove them all out of

the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen; and poured out the changers' money,

and overthrew the tables;

[16] And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not

my Father's house an house of merchandise.

[17] And his disciples remembered that it was written, The zeal of thine

house hath eaten me up.

[18] Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto

us, seeing that thou doest these things?

[19] Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three

days I will raise it up.

[20] Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building,

and wilt thou rear it up in three days?

[21] But he spake of the temple of his body.

[22] When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered

that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the

word which Jesus had said.

[23] Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many

believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.

[24] But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,

[25] And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in

man.



2) Our Daily Bread for 25 September 2022



Entitled "Choose Wisely"




Mark 8:34-38



34 (Mt 10:38) When He had called the people to Him, with His disciples,

He said to them, "If any man would come after Me,

let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.

35 (Mt 10:39; Lk 17:33) For whoever would save his life will lose it.

But whoever would lose his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it.

36 For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world

and loses his own soul?

37 (Ps 49:7-8) Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

38 (Mt 16:27; 25:31) Whoever therefore is ashamed of Me

and of My words in this adulterous and sinful generation,

of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when He comes

in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."



[34] And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he

said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take

up his cross, and follow me.

[35] For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall

lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.

[36] For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and

lose his own soul?

[37] Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

[38] Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this

adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be

ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.



Astronaut Chris Ferguson made a difficult decision as the commander of the

flight crew scheduled for a journey to the International Space Station. But

that decision didn't have anything to do with the mechanics of flight or the

safety of his fellow astronauts. Instead, it pertained to what he considers

his most important work: his family. Ferguson opted to keep his feet planted

firmly on Earth so he could be present for his daughter's wedding.



We all face difficult decisions at times-decisions that cause us to evaluate

what matters most to us in life, because one option comes at the expense of

the other. Jesus aimed to communicate this truth to His disciples and a crowd

of onlookers regarding life's most important decision-to follow Him. To be a

disciple, He said, would require them to "deny themselves" in order to walk

with Him (Mark 8:34). They might have been tempted to spare themselves the

sacrifices required of following Christ and instead seek their own desires,

but He reminded them it would come at the price of that which matters much

more.



We're often tempted to pursue things that seem of great value, yet they

distract us from following Jesus. Let's ask God to guide us in the choices

we face each day so we'll choose wisely and honour Him.



By: Kirsten Holmberg



Reflect & Pray



What choices have you made that drew you away from Jesus?

What choices have drawn you nearer?



Jesus, I want to walk with You. Please help me to recognize

and choose the paths that will foster a deeper connection to You.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 6 Showing Grace to Others - Day 1 - Forgiving as God Forgave



Col 3:13



13 Bear with one another and forgive one another. If anyone

has a quarrel against anyone, even as Christ forgave you, so you must do.



13 forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man

have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.



"No!" Brett slammed his hand against the desk to punctuate his point.

"My wife's infidelity is completely unforgivable. She just wants to make things

look good, to have me condone her new relationship.

I won't do it. I won't forgive her."

Brett was a man in pain, and his perspective on forgiving

his wife is understandable. But unfortunately, many of us are

the victims of "unforgivable" offenses; many of us, as well,

are the perpetrators of such offenses, and we desperately need

to be forgiven.

Brett ultimately came to understand that forgiving and "unforgivable"

hurt is not based on the worthiness of the recipient of forgiveness,

but on the worthiness of Christ himself. The Bible teaches that we are bound

to forgiveness for one simple reason:

because God has forgiven us in Jesus Christ.

"Forgive as the Lord forgave", Paul commands in Col 3:13 . How did Christ

forgive? Freely, completely, without basing his forgiveness on our merit. He

forgave us unilaterally, offering forgiveness before we asked,

before we were aware of our sin and the pain it caused him,

before we came to him in repentance.

Forgiveness does more that release the perpetrator for the bondage of

his wrongdoing. It releases the victim as well. Forgiveness frees

the forgiver from the bondage of anger and bitterness that keeps him distant

from the love of God. We can forgive the most "unforgivable" of offenses

against us when we focus our attention not on the offender, but on Christ,

who forgave us.



Application



a) Have I ever harboured unforgiveness toward another person?

What was the result in my spiritual/emotional life?



b) Is there someone in my life who has hurt me, who I need to forgive?

How can this verse help me extend the forgiveness to that person?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Eph 4:28



28 (Ex 20:15; 1Th 4:11-12) Let him who steals steal no more.

Instead, let him labour, working with his hands things which

are good, that he may have something to share with him who is in need.



28 Let him that stole steal no more:

but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which

is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Guiding Presence



Ps 139:1-12



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.



Psalm 139

To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.

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.





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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 25 of the Month



a) Pray that there will be a growing number of people in your city or

community trusting in Christ as Saviour and Lord.



(Acts 2: 41,47b



41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized,

and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.

47 ... And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.



41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized:

and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

47 ... And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.

)



b) Pray that those who serve in the justice system will be agents of true

justice for all.



( Prov 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.



)



Conclusion:

Pray to the Lord and Pray that the focus be on Jesus Christ

as the Centre of your live and that descent and selfishness will disappear.



Pray to the Lord and pray to give all your temptations to Christ.



Pray to the Lord: "Jesus, I want to walk with You. Please help me to recognise

and choose the paths that will foster a deeper connection to You."



Pray to the Lord and pray to be a forgiving person.



Pray to the Lord and pray to be a good sharer.



Pray to the Lord and Thank Him that He knows you .



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that there will be a growing number of people in your city or

community trusting in Christ as Saviour and Lord.



Pray that those who serve in the justice system will be agents of true

justice for all.



Pray that believers in Pakistan will understand who they are in Christ

so they can more effectively share the Gospel.



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.

Day 267 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 24 September 2022 reflections

Day 267, 24 September 2022



1) Matthew 2

Luke 2:39-52

Mark 1:2-8

Matthew 3:1-12

Luke 3:1-18

Mark 1:9-11

Matthew 3:13-17

Luke 3:21-22

John 1:19-34



Matthew 2



The Visit of the Wise Men



1 (Lk 2:4-7; Mic 5:2) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea

in the days of Herod the king, wise men came from the east to Jerusalem,

2 (Nu 24:17; Jer 23:5; Zec 9:9) saying, "Where is He who was born King

of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east and have come

to worship Him."

3 When Herod the king heard these things, he was troubled,

and all Jerusalem with him.

4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he inquired of them where Christ should be born.

5 (Ge 35:19) They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for this is

what the prophet wrote:

6 (Mic 5:2; Jn 7:42) 'And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,

are no longer least among the princes of Judah;

for out of you shall come a Governor,

who will shepherd My people Israel.'[Ps 91:11-12.]"

7 Then Herod, when he had privately called the wise men,

carefully inquired of them what time the star appeared.

8 And he sent them to Bethlehem and said,

"Go and search diligently for the young Child, and when you have found Him,

bring me word again, so that I may come and worship Him also."

9 When they heard the king, they departed. And the star which they saw

in the east went before them until it came and stood over where the young

Child was.

10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with great excitement.

11 (Ps 72:10; Mt 14:33) And when they came into the house,

they saw the young Child with Mary, His mother, and fell down

and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures,

they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

12 (Mt 2:22; 27:19) But being warned in a dream that they should

not return to Herod, they returned to their own country

by another route.



The Escape to Egypt



13 (Ac 5:19; Mt 1:20) Now when they departed, the angel of the Lord

appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying,

"Arise, take the young Child and His mother, and escape to Egypt,

and stay there until I bring you word.

For Herod will seek the young Child to kill Him."

14 When he rose, he took the young Child and His mother by night,

and departed into Egypt,

15 (Hos 11:1; Ex 4:22) and remained there until the death of Herod,

to fulfill what the Lord had spoken through the prophet,

"Out of Egypt I have called My Son."

A talent was worth several hundred pounds.



The Killing of the Infants



16 (Isa 59:7) Then Herod, when he saw that he had been tricked

by the wise men, was utterly furious and sent forth and killed

all the male children who were in Bethlehem and the surrounding region,

from two years old and under, based on the time which he had diligently

inquired of the wise men.

17 Then was fulfilled what was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet:

18 (Jer 31:15; Ge 42:36) "In Ramah a voice was heard,

grieving and weeping and great mourning,

Rachel weeping for her children,

and she would not be comforted,

because they are no more."[-21 Isa 42:1–4].



The Return From Egypt



19 (Mt 1:20) But when Herod was dead, an angel of the Lord appeared

in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,

20 (Ex 4:19) saying, "Arise, take the young Child and His mother,

and go into the land of Israel, for those who sought

the young Child's life are dead."

21 And he rose, took the young Child and His mother,

and came into the land of Israel.

22 (Lk 2:39) But when he heard that Archelaus reigned in Judea

instead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Nevertheless,

being warned by God in a dream, he withdrew to the region of Galilee.

23 (Jn 1:45-46; Jdg 13:5) And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth,

that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled,

"He shall be called a Nazarene."



[1] Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the

king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

[2] Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his

star in the east, and are come to worship him.

[3] When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all

Jerusalem with him.

[4] And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people

together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.

[5] And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written

by the prophet,

[6] And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the

princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my

people Israel.

[7] Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them

diligently what time the star appeared.

[8] And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for

the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may

come and worship him also.

[9] When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which

they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where

the young child was.

[10] When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

[11] And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with

Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened

their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and

myrrh.

[12] And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to

Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

[13] And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to

Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother,

and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod

will seek the young child to destroy him.

[14] When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and

departed into Egypt:

[15] And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled

which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I

called my son.

[16] Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was

exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in

Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under,

according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.

[17] Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

[18] In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great

mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted,

because they are not.

[19] But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a

dream to Joseph in Egypt,

[20] Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the

land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.

[21] And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into

the land of Israel.

[22] But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his

father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of

God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:

[23] And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be

fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.



Luke 2:39-52



The Return to Nazareth



39 (Lk 2:4) When they had performed everything according to the law

of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city of Nazareth.

40 (Lk 2:52; 1:80) And the Child grew and became strong in spirit,

filled with wisdom. And the grace of God was upon Him.



The Boy Jesus in the Temple



41 (Dt 16:1-8; 1Sa 1:3) Now His parents went to Jerusalem every year

at the Feast of the Passover.

42 When He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according

to the custom of the feast.

43 When the days of the feast were complete, as they returned,

the Child Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem.

And Joseph and His mother did not know of it.

44 But supposing Him to be in their company, they went a day's journey.

Then they searched for Him among their relatives and acquaintances.

45 When they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for Him.

46 (Lk 5:17) After three days they found Him in the temple, sitting

in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.

47 (Mt 7:28; Mk 1:22) All who heard Him were astonished

at His understanding and His answers.

48 When they saw Him, they were amazed. And His mother said to Him,

"Son, why have You dealt with us like this?

Look, Your father and I have anxiously searched for You."

49 (Jn 4:34) He said to them, "How is it that you searched for Me? Did you

not know that I must be about My Father's business?"

50 (Lk 18:34; Mk 9:32) But they did not understand the word which

He spoke to them.

51 (Lk 2:19; Mk 6:3) Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth

and was obedient to them. But His mother kept all these words in her heart.

52 (1Sa 2:26; Lk 2:40) And Jesus increased in wisdom

and in stature and in favor with God and men.



[39] And when they had performed all things according to the law of the

Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

[40] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and

the grace of God was upon him.

[41] Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the

passover.

[42] And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the

custom of the feast.

[43] And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus

tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.

[44] But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's

journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.

[45] And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem,

seeking him.

[46] And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the

temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking

them questions.

[47] And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and

answers.

[48] And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him,

Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought

thee sorrowing.

[49] And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I

must be about my Father's business?

[50] And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

[51] And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto

them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

[52] And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and

man.



Mark 1:2-8



2 (Mal 3:1; Mt 11:10; Lk 1:76) As it is written in the Prophets:

"Look, I am sending My messenger before Your face,

who will prepare Your way before You." [Mal 3:1].

3 (Mt 3:3) "The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

'Prepare the way of the Lord,

make His paths straight.' " [Isa 40:3].

4 (Lk 1:77) John came baptizing in the wilderness

and preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

5 (Ac 19:18) The whole region of Judea and all the people of Jerusalem

went out to him and were all baptized by him in the Jordan River,

confessing their sins.

6 (Lev 11:22; 2Ki 1:8) John was clothed with camel's hair

and with a leather belt around his waist. And he ate locusts and wild honey.

7 (Ac 13:25; Jn 1:27) He preached saying, "After me is coming One mightier

than I, the straps of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and untie.

8 (Ac 1:5; Isa 44:3) I indeed have baptized you with water,

but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."



[2] As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before

thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

[3] The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the

Lord, make his paths straight.

[4] John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of

repentance for the remission of sins.

[5] And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of

Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan,

confessing their sins.

[6] And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin

about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;

[7] And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the

latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose.

[8] I indeed have baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with

the Holy Ghost.



Matthew 3:1-12



The Preaching of John the Baptist



Mk 1:1-8; Lk 3:1-9, 15-17; Jn 1:19-28



1 (Mt 11:11; 16:14) In those days John the Baptist came, preaching

in the wilderness of Judea,

2 (Mt 4:17; Da 2:44; Mt 6:10) and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven

is at hand."

3 (Isa 40:3; Lk 1:76) For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah,

saying:

"The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

'Prepare the way of the Lord;

make His paths straight.' " [Isa 40:3].

4 (Lev 11:22; 2Ki 1:8) This same John had clothing made of camel's hair,

a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.

5 (Mk 1:5) Then Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region

around the Jordan went out to him,

6 (Ac 19:18; Mt 3:11) and were baptized by him in the Jordan,

confessing their sins.

7 (Mt 12:34; 23:33) But when he saw many of the Pharisees

and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said to them,

"O generation of vipers, who has warned you to escape from the wrath to come?

8 (Ac 26:20; Jer 36:3) Therefore, bear fruit worthy of repentance,

9 (Lk 3:8; 16:24) and do not think to say within yourselves,

'We have Abraham as our father,' for I say to you that God is able

from these stones to raise up children for Abraham.

10 (Mt 7:19; Jn 15:2) Even now the axe is put to the tree roots.

Therefore, every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down

and thrown into the fire.

11 (Ac 1:5; Lk 3:16; Isa 4:4) "I indeed baptize you with water to repentance,

but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy

to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

12 (Mal 4:1; Mt 13:30) His fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly

clean His floor and gather His wheat into the granary,

but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."



[1] In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of

Judaea,

[2] And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

[3] For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The

voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make

his paths straight.

[4] And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle

about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.

[5] Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round

about Jordan,

[6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

[7] But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism,

he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from

the wrath to come?

[8] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:

[9] And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father:

for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children

unto Abraham.

[10] And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore

every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into

the fire.

[11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh

after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall

baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:

[12] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and

gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with

unquenchable fire.



Luke 3:1-18



The Preaching of John the Baptist



Mt 3:1-12; Mk 1:1-8; Jn 1:19-28



1 (Mt 14:1; 27:2) In the fifteenth year of the reign of Caesar Tiberius,

Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, Herod was tetrarch of Galilee,

his brother Philip was tetrarch of Iturea and the region of Traconitis,

and Lysanias was the tetrarch of Abilene.

2 (Ac 4:6; Jn 18:24) Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests,

the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness.

3 (Lk 1:77) He came into the region surrounding the Jordan,

preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

4 (Isa 40:3-5; Jn 1:23) As it is written in the book of the words

of Isaiah the prophet, saying:

"The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

'Prepare the way of the Lord;

make His paths straight.

5 (Isa 40:4; 42:16) Every valley shall be filled

and every mountain and hill shall be brought low;

and the crooked shall be made straight

and the rough ways shall be made smooth;

6 (Isa 40:5; 52:10) and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'"

[Gk. 2 assaria. An assarion was worth 1/16 of a denarius,

which was a day's wage.]

7 (Mt 23:33; 12:34) Then he said to the crowds that came out to be baptized

by him, "You children of vipers! Who warned you

to flee from the wrath to come?

8 (Jn 8:33; Ac 26:20) Therefore bear fruit worthy of repentance,

and do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.'

For I say to you that God is able from these stones to raise up children

for Abraham.

9 (Mt 7:19; Lk 13:7) Even now the axe is put to the root of the trees.

Every tree therefore which does not bear good fruit is cut down

and thrown into the fire."

10 (Ac 2:37; 16:30) The people asked him, "What then must we do?"

11 (Da 4:27; Lk 18:22) John answered, "He who has two tunics, let him give

to him who has none. And he who has food, let him do likewise."

12 (Lk 7:29) Then tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him,

"Teacher, what must we do?"

13 (Lk 19:8) He said to them, "Collect no more than what is appointed you."

14 (Ex 23:1; 20:16) Then the soldiers likewise demanded of him,

"And what must we do?"

He said to them, "Do no violence to anyone nor accuse any falsely,

and be content with your wages."

15 As the people were in expectation, and everyone reflected in their hearts

upon John, whether he might be the Christ or not,

16 (Ac 1:5; Mt 3:11) John answered them all, "I indeed baptize you

with water. But One mightier than I is coming, the strings of whose shoes

I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit

and with fire.

17 (Mt 13:30; Isa 30:24) His fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly

cleanse His threshing floor, and will gather the wheat into His granary.

But He will burn the chaff with unquenchable fire."

18 Then he preached many other things in his exhortation to the people.



[1] Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius

Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and

his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and

Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,

[2] Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto

John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

[3] And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of

repentance for the remission of sins;

[4] As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying,

The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord,

make his paths straight.

[5] Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be

brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways

shall be made smooth;

[6] And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

[7] Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O

generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?

[8] Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say

within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That

God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

[9] And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree

therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into

the fire.

[10] And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?

[11] He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him

impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

[12] Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master,

what shall we do?

[13] And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

[14] And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we

do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any

falsely; and be content with your wages.

[15] And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their

hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not;

[16] John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water;

but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy

to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:

[17] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and

will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire

unquenchable.

[18] And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.



Mark 1:9-11



The Baptism of Jesus



Mt 3:13-17; Lk 3:21-22



9 (Mt 2:23) In those days Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee

and was baptized by John in the Jordan.

10 (Isa 64:1; Mt 3:16) Coming up out of the water,

He immediately saw the heavens opened and the Spirit

descending on Him like a dove.

11 (Ps 2:7; Isa 42:1) And a voice came from heaven, saying,

"You are My beloved Son in whom I am well pleased."



[9] And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of

Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.

[10] And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens

opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him:

[11] And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved

Son, in whom I am well pleased.



Matthew 3:13-17



The Baptism of Jesus



Mk 1:9-11; Lk 3:21-22



13 (Mt 2:22) Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan

to be baptised by him.

14 But John prohibited Him, saying,

"I need to be baptized by You, and do You come to me?"

15 (Ps 40:7-8; Jn 4:34) But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now,

for it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness." Then he permitted Him.

16 (Isa 11:2; 42:1) And when Jesus was baptized, He came up immediately

out of the water. And suddenly the heavens were opened to Him,

and He saw the Spirit of God descending on Him like a dove.

17 (Ps 2:7; Mt 17:5; Isa 42:1) And a voice came from heaven, saying,

"This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."



[13] Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of

him.

[14] But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and

comest thou to me?

[15] And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it

becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.

[16] And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water:

and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God

descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:

[17] And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I

am well pleased.



Luke 3:21-22



The Baptism of Jesus



Mt 3:13-17; Mk 1:9-11



21 (Jn 1:32-34; Mt 3:13-17) Now when all the people were baptized,

and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying,

the heavens were opened,

22 (Ps 2:7; Isa 42:1) and the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily form

like a dove on Him, and a voice came from heaven which said,

"You are My beloved Son. In You I am well pleased."



[21] Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also

being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,

[22] And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him,

and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I

am well pleased.



John 1:19-34



The Testimony of John the Baptist



Mt 3:1-12; Mk 1:2-8; Lk 3:15-17



19 Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests

and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, "Who are you?"

20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, "I am not the Christ."

21 They asked him, "Who then? Are you Elijah?"

He said, "I am not." "Are you the Prophet?" He answered, "No."

22 They said to him then, "Who are you? Tell us so that we may give

an answer to those who sent us. What do you say concerning yourself?"

23 John said, "I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness,

'Make straight the way of the Lord,' just as the prophet Isaiah said."

24 Now those who were sent were from the Pharisees.

25 They asked him, "Why do you baptise then, if you are not the Christ,

nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?"

26 John answered them, "I baptize with water, but One stands among you,

whom you do not know.

27 This is He who comes after me, who is preferred before me,

the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie."

28 These things took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan,

where John was baptizing.



The Lamb of God



29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, "Look, the Lamb

of God, who takes away the sin of the world.

30 This is He of whom I said, 'After me comes a Man who is preferred

before me, for He was before me.'

31 I did not know Him, but for this reason I came baptizing with water:

so that He might be revealed to Israel."

32 Then John bore witness, saying, "I saw the Spirit descending

from heaven like a dove, and it remained on Him.

33 I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me,

'The One on whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining,

this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.'

34 I have seen and have borne witness that He is the Son of God."



[19] And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites

from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?

[20] And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ.

[21] And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, I am not.

Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No.

[22] Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to

them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself?

[23] He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight

the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.

[24] And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.

[25] And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou

be not that Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet?

[26] John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth

one among you, whom ye know not;

[27] He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's

latchet I am not worthy to unloose.

[28] These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was

baptizing.

[29] The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the

Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

[30] This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred

before me: for he was before me.

[31] And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel,

therefore am I come baptizing with water.

[32] And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven

like a dove, and it abode upon him.

[33] And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same

said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining

on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

[34] And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.



2) Our Daily Bread for 25 September 2022



Entitled "The Power of a Name"




Genesis 17:1-8,15-16



The Covenant of Circumcision

1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old,

the Lord appeared to him and said,

"I am Almighty God. Walk before Me and be blameless.

2 And I will make My covenant between you

and Me and will exceedingly multiply you."

3 Abram fell on his face and God said to him,

4 "As for Me, My covenant is with you,

and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations.

5 No longer will your name be called Abram,

but your name will be Abraham,

for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations.

6 I will make you exceedingly fruitful;

and I will make nations of you,

and kings will come from you.

7 I will establish My covenant between Me

and you and your descendants after you

throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant,

to be God to you and your descendants after you.

8 All the land of Canaan, where you now live as strangers,

I will give to you and to your descendants for an everlasting possession,

and I will be their God."

15 Then God said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife,

you will not call her name Sarai,

but her name will be Sarah.

16 I will bless her and also give you a son by her.

I will bless her, and she will be the mother of nations.

Kings of peoples will come from her."



[1] And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to

Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou

perfect.

[2] And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee

exceedingly.

[3] And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him, saying,

[4] As for me, behold, my covenant is with thee, and thou shalt be a father

of many nations.

[5] Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be

Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee.

[6] And I will make thee exceeding fruitful, and I will make nations of

thee, and kings shall come out of thee.

[7] And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after

thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be a God unto

thee, and to thy seed after thee.

[8] And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein

thou art a stranger, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession;

and I will be their God.

[15] And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shalt not call

her name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be.

[16] And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will

bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of

her.



Seeking to affirm some children who live on the streets in Mumbai, India,

Ranjit created a song of their names. Coming up with a unique melody for each

name, he taught them the tune, hoping to give them a positive memory related

to what they're called. For children who don't regularly hear their name

spoken in love, he bestowed on them a gift of respect.



Names are important in the Bible, often reflecting a person's character traits

or new role. For instance, God changed the names of Abram and Sarai when He

made a covenant of love with them, promising that He would be their God and

they would be His people. Abram, which means "exalted father," became Abraham,

which means "father of many." And Sarai, which means "princess," became Sarah,

which means "princess of many" (see Genesis 17:5, 15).



God's new names included the gracious promise that they would no longer be

childless. When Sarah gave birth to their son, they were overjoyed and named

him Isaac, which means "he laughs": "Sarah said, 'God has brought me laughter,

and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me' " (Genesis 21:6).



We show honor and respect to people when we call them by name and affirm

who God has created them to be. A loving nickname that affirms someone’s unique

qualities as one created in the image of God can do the same.



By: Amy Boucher Pye



Reflect & Pray



How do you feel about your name? When have you been able

to name something in a friend or family member that reflects who they are?



God of all names, You made me in Your image

and love me. Shape me and mold me to be more like You.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 7 Break up Your Fallow Ground



Hosea 10:12



12 Sow to yourselves righteousness, reap mercy,

break up your fallow ground; for it is time to seek the Lord,

until He comes and rains righteousness upon you.



12 Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy;

break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD,

till he come and rain righteousness upon you.



When a farmer prepares to plant his crop, a great deal of preparation

is necessary before the seen can be sown. He has to plow up the ground,

turning under the stubble from the previous harvest, harrow the field to

break up the clods, and fertilise- readying the soil for optimum growth.

A fallow field, one that was not planted the previous season, must be

broken and worked so that the seed can find root in the ground.

The Bible likens spiritual growth to raising crops. God is the one

who brings rain and gives growth, but the success or failure

of the seed - both in initial salvation and in ongoing maturity -

is often linked to how well the soil has been prepared.

That preparation isn't always a pleasant or rewarding process.

We may resist the plowing or harrowing that comes through

the Holy Spirit's conviction of sin. We may need to dig up boulders

of bitterness and thistles of anger; we may have to plow under the

stubble of the last crop of lessons, working that mulch deep into our lives.

But the final outcome is worth the effort - even the pain - that

preparation brings. Broken up, harrowed, readied for the seed of God's Word,

we are rich and fertile ground, and the seed of righteousness produces

an abundant crop in us.



Application



a) In what ways have I been "broken up" and "harrowed" by the Holy

Spirit to prepare me for God's work in me?



b) How can I apply these verses to myself? How can I

"sow in righteousness," "reap in mercy,"

"break up my fallow ground"?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Gal 3:13-14



13 (Dt 21:23; Gal 4:5) Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law by

being made a curse for us - as it is written,

"Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree" (Dt 21:23.)-

14 (Ac 2:33; Gal 3:2) so that the blessing of Abraham might come

on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise

of the Spirit through faith.



13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse

for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:

14 that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus

Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Guiding Presence



Ps 119:105-112



Nun



105 Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

106 I have sworn, and I will perform it,

that I will keep Your righteous judgments.

107 I am greatly afflicted;

revive me, O Lord, according to Your word.

108 Accept the freewill offerings of my praise, O Lord,

and teach me Your judgments.

109 My soul is continually in my hand,

yet I do not forget Your law.

110 The wicked have laid a trap for me,

yet I do not depart from Your precepts.

111 Your testimonies are my inheritance forever,

for they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112 I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes always,

even unto the end.



Nun

105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet,

And a light unto my path.

106 I have sworn, and I will perform it,

That I will keep thy righteous judgments.

107 I am afflicted very much:

Quicken me, O LORD, according unto thy word.

108 Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD,

And teach me thy judgments.

109 My soul is continually in my hand:

Yet do I not forget thy law.

110 The wicked have laid a snare for me:

Yet I erred not from thy precepts.

111 Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever:

For they are the rejoicing of my heart.

112 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes

Alway, even unto the end.





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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 24 of the Month



a) Pray that the Lord will open a door for the message for the Gospel

at every level of Canadian Society. (



Col 4:3



3 while praying also for us, that God would open to

us a door of utterance to speak the mystery of Christ,

for which I am also in chains,



3 withal praying also for us, that God would open unto

us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ,

for which I am also in bonds:



)



b) Pray for the Province of Saskatchewan



I) Pray for the leaders of Saskatchewan,

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



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to grow in the Word like Jesus and John did

early in their ministry.



Pray to the Lord: "God of all names, You made me in Your image

and love me. Shape me and mold me to be more like You."



Pray to the Lord and pray for the Lord to work in you.



Pray to the Lord and Thank Him for being redeemer.



Pray to the Lord and Thank Him for His word is a Lamp into life.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that the Lord will open a door for the message for the Gospel

at every level of Canadian Society.



Pray for the encouragement and courage of local believers in the United Arab

Emirates who must worship in secret.



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.

Day 266 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 23 September 2022 reflections

Day 266, 23 September 2022



1) Luke 1:39-80

Matthew 1:18-25

Luke 2:1-40



Luke 1:39-80



Mary Visits Elizabeth



39 In those days Mary arose and quickly went into the hill country,

to a city of Judah,

40 and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.

41 When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped

in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

42 She spoke out with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women,

and blessed is the fruit of your womb!

43 But why is this granted to me,

that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

44 Indeed, as soon as the sound of your greeting came to my ears,

the baby in my womb leaped for joy.

45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion

to those things which were told her by the Lord."



The Song of Mary



46 And Mary said:

"My soul magnifies the Lord,

47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

48 For He has regarded

the low estate of His servant;

surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.

49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,

and holy is His name.

50 His mercy is on those who fear Him

from generation to generation.

51 He has shown strength with His arm;

He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones

and exalted those of low degree.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things,

and the rich He has sent away empty.

54 He has helped His servant Israel,

in remembrance of His mercy,

55 as He spoke to our fathers,

to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

56 Mary remained with her about three months

and returned to her own house.



The Birth of John the Baptist



57 Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.

58 Her neighbours and cousins heard how the Lord had shown her great mercy,

and they rejoiced with her.

59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child.

And they were calling him Zechariah, after the name of his father.

60 But his mother answered, “Not so! He shall be called John.”

61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives

who is called by this name."

62 They made signs to his father, asking what he would have him called.

63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."

And they all were amazed.

64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed,

and he spoke and praised God.

65 Fear came on all who lived around them. And all these facts

were talked about throughout all the hill country of Judea.

66 All those who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying,

"What kind of child will he be?" For the hand of the Lord was with him.



The Prophecy of Zechariah



67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit

and prophesied, saying,

68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,

for He has visited and redeemed His people,

69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of His servant David,

70 as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets of long ago,

71 that we should be saved from our enemies

and from the hand of all who hate us,

72 to perform the mercy promised to our fathers

and to remember His holy covenant,

73 the oath which He swore to our father Abraham,

74 to grant us that we, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies,

might serve Him without fear,

75 in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our lives.

76 "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest;

for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,

77 to give knowledge of salvation to His people

by the remission of their sins,

78 through the tender mercy of our God,

whereby the sunrise from on high has visited us;

79 to give light to those who sit in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace."

80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit,

and he remained in the wilderness until the day of his appearance to Israel.



[39] And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with

haste, into a city of Juda;

[40] And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

[41] And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary,

the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

[42] And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among

women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

[43] And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

[44] For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears,

the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

[45] And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of

those things which were told her from the Lord.

[46] And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,

[47] And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

[48] For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold,

from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

[49] For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his

name.

[50] And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.

[51] He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in

the imagination of their hearts.

[52] He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low

degree.

[53] He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent

empty away.

[54] He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;

[55] As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

[56] And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own

house.

[57] Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she

brought forth a son.

[58] And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great

mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.

[59] And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the

child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.

[60] And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.

[61] And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by

this name.

[62] And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.

[63] And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John.

And they marvelled all.

[64] And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he

spake, and praised God.

[65] And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings

were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.

[66] And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What

manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

[67] And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and

prophesied, saying,

[68] Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his

people,

[69] And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his

servant David;

[70] As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since

the world began:

[71] That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that

hate us;

[72] To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy

covenant;

[73] The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,

[74] That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of

our enemies might serve him without fear,

[75] In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

[76] And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou

shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;

[77] To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of

their sins,

[78] Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high

hath visited us,

[79] To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace.

[80] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts

till the day of his shewing unto Israel.



Matthew 1:18-25



The Birth of Jesus Christ



Lk 2:1-7



18 (Ge 3:15) Now the birth of Jesus Christ happened this way:

After His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, before they came together,

she was found with child by the Holy Spirit.

19 (Dt 22:21-24; 24:1-4 )Then Joseph her husband, being a just man

and not willing to make her a public example, had in mind to divorce

her privately.

20 (Mt 1:18; 2:13) But while he thought on these things, the angel

of the Lord appeared to him in a dream saying,

"Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife,

for He who is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.

21 (Lk 1:31; Ac 4:12) She will bear a Son, and you shall call His name JESUS,

for He will save His people from their sins."

22 (Mt 2:15; 2:23) Now all this occurred to fulfill what the Lord

had spoken through the prophet, saying,

23 (Isa 7:14; 9:6-7; Mt 28:20) "A virgin shall be with child,

and will bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,"

[Isa 7:14.] which is interpreted, "God with us."

24 Then Joseph, being awakened from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord

had commanded him, and remained with his wife,

25 (Mt 1:21; Lk 2:7) and did not know her until she had given birth

to her firstborn Son. And he called His name JESUS.



[18] Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary

was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child

of the Holy Ghost.

[19] Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her

a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.

[20] But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord

appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to

take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the

Holy Ghost.

[21] And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS:

for he shall save his people from their sins.

[22] Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of

the Lord by the prophet, saying,

[23] Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and

they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

[24] Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had

bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

[25] And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he

called his name JESUS.



Luke 2:1-38



The Birth of Jesus



Mt 1:18-25



1 (Lk 3:1; Mt 24:14) In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus

that the entire inhabited earth should be taxed.

2 (Lk 3:1) This taxation was first made when Quirinius was governor of Syria.

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed.

4 (Jn 7:42; 1Sa 16:1) So Joseph also departed from the city of Nazareth

in Galilee to the City of David which is called Bethlehem, in Judea,

because he was of the house and lineage of David,

5 to be taxed with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.

6 So while they were there, the day came for her to give birth.

7 (Mt 1:25; Lk 2:11-12) And she gave birth to her firstborn Son,

and wrapped Him in strips of cloth, and laid Him in a manger,

because there was no room for them in the inn.



The Shepherds and the Angels



8 And in the same area there were shepherds living in the fields,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 (2Co 3:18) And then an angel of the Lord appeared to them,

and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were very afraid.

10 (Ge 12:3; Isa 40:9) But the angel said to them, "Listen! Do not fear.

For I bring you good news of great joy, which will be to all people.

11 (Mt 1:21; Lk 1:43; Mt 16:16) For unto you is born this day

in the City of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

12 (1Sa 2:34; 2Ki 19:29) And this will be a sign to you:

You will find the Baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger."

13 (Ge 28:12; 32:1-2) Suddenly there was with the angel a company

of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 (Lk 1:79; 19:38) "Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace, and good will toward men."

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said

to each other, "Let us now go to Bethlehem and see what has happened,

which the Lord has made known to us."

16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,

and the Baby lying in a manger.

17 When they had seen Him, they made widely known the word

which was told them concerning this Child.

18 And all those who heard it marveled at what the shepherds told them.

19 (Lk 2:51; Ge 37:11) But Mary kept all these things and pondered them

in her heart.

20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things

they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.



The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple



21 (Lk 1:31; 1:59) When eight days had passed and the Child was circumcised,

He was named ­JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived

in the womb.

22 When the days of her purification according to the Law of Moses

were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord

23 (Ex 13:2; Nu 3:13)(as it is written in the law of the Lord,

"Every firstborn male shall be called holy to the Lord"

Ex 13:2, 12; Nu 3:13; 8:17.)

24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord,

"a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons." Lev 5:11; 12:8.

25 (Lk 1:6; 2:38) Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon,

and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel,

and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

26 (Jn 8:51; Heb 11:5) It was revealed to him by the Holy Spirit

that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

27 (Lk 2:41; 2:48) Led by the Spirit, he came into the temple. And when

the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according

to the custom of the law,

28 (Lk 1:64) he received Him in his arms and blessed God and said:

29 (Ge 15:15; Lk 2:26) "Lord, now let Your servant depart in peace,

according to Your word;

30 (Lk 3:6; Isa 52:10) for my eyes have seen Your salvation

31 which You have prepared in the sight of all people,

32 (Isa 49:6; 9:2; 60:19) a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and the glory of Your people Israel."

33 Joseph and His mother were amazed at those things which were spoken

about Him.

34 (1Co 1:23; Mt 21:44; Ac 28:22) Then Simeon blessed them

and said to Mary His mother, "Listen, this Child is destined to cause the fall

and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign which will be spoken against,

35 so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

And a sword will pierce through your own soul also."

36 (Ac 21:9; Ex 15:20) And there was Anna a prophetess, a daughter of Phanuel,

of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age and had lived

with her husband seven years from her virginity.

37 (1Ti 5:5; Ac 14:23) And she was a widow of about 84 years of age

who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fasting

and prayer night and day.

38 (Lk 2:25; 1:68) Coming at that moment she gave thanks to the Lord

and spoke of Him to all those who looked for the redemption of Jerusalem.



[1] And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from

Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

[2] (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

[3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

[4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into

Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was

of the house and lineage of David:)

[5] To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

[6] And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished

that she should be delivered.

[7] And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling

clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the

inn.

[8] And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field,

keeping watch over their flock by night.

[9] And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord

shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

[10] And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good

tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

[11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is

Christ the Lord.

[12] And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in

swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

[13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host

praising God, and saying,

[14] Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

[15] And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into

heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto

Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath

made known unto us.

[16] And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe

lying in a manger.

[17] And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was

told them concerning this child.

[18] And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told

them by the shepherds.

[19] But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

[20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the

things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

[21] And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the

child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he

was conceived in the womb.

[22] And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses

were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the

Lord;

[23] (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the

womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

[24] And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of

the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

[25] And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and

the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and

the Holy Ghost was upon him.

[26] And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see

death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

[27] And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought

in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

[28] Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

[29] Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy

word:

[30] For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

[31] Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

[32] A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

[33] And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken

of him.

[34] And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this

child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign

which shall be spoken against;

[35] (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the

thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

[36] And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the

tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven

years from her virginity;

[37] And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed

not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

[38] And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and

spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.





2) Our Daily Bread for 23 September 2022



Entitled "The Story Isn't Over"




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.



When British drama Line of Duty concluded, record numbers watched to see how

its fight against organized crime would end. But many viewers were left

disappointed when the finale implied that evil would ultimately win. "I wanted

the bad guys brought to justice," one fan said. "We needed that moral ending."



Sociologist Peter Berger once noted that we hunger for hope and justice-hope

that evil will one day be overcome and that those who caused it will be made

to face their crimes. A world where the bad guys win goes against how we know

the world should work. Without probably realizing it, those disappointed fans

were expressing humanity's deep longing for the world to be made right again.



In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus is realistic about evil. It exists not only

between us, requiring forgiveness (Matthew 6:12), but on a grand scale,

requiring deliverance (v. 13). This realism, however, is matched with hope.

There's a place where evil doesn't exist-heaven-and that heavenly kingdom is

coming to earth (v. 10). One day God's justice will be complete, His "moral

ending" will come, and evil will be banished for good (Revelation 21:4).



So when the real-life bad guys win and disappointment sets in, let's remember

this: until God's will is done "on earth as it is in heaven," there is always

hope-because the story isn't over.



By: Sheridan Voysey



Reflect & Pray



Why do you think we hunger for hope and justice?

How can praying the Lord’s Prayer help you face evil and disappointment?



Heavenly Father, may Your kingdom come,

Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven!



For further study, read Living Justly, Loving Mercy.




3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 6 God Works!



Phil 2:12-13



12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence,

but so much more in my absence, work out your own salvation

with fear and trembling.

13 For God is the One working in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure.



12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence

only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation

with fear and trembling.

13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will

and to do of his good pleasure.



"I just can't do it!" Marlys, a carrer woman in her 30s, was struggling to fit

her new Christian pricinples into the business world. Accustomed to the

cutthroat tactics of the corporate hierarchy, she has a hard time knowing

Jesus' examples of grace and mercy applied.

Marlys was right. She couldn't do it. In our own strength, none of us is able

to "live the Christian life." Someone has said, " The Christian life isn't

difficult -- it's impossible!" Only the power of the Holy Spirit is

effective to work the needed changes in our priorities and behaviour;

only God can accomplish what he calls us to do.

In Phillippians 2:12, Paul says "work it out." If we stop there,

we are likely to throw up our hands in despair.

But the good news appears in verse 13:

" For God is the One working in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure."

WE are not left on our own to figure out how to live the Christian life.

God gives us both the will and the ability to obey him, to live in a way

that will please him.

The key to a God-pleasing life is not performance, but obedience. God does not

expect us to "do great things" for him, to deserve his love and grace.

Our part in the process of salvation is to respond in obedience to the Lord,

to say "yes" to what he asks of us. We cannot change ourselves;

we cannot even know ourselves apart from the Spirit's insight. But

as we cooperate with him, as we agree to be obedient, the Spirit changes us

within, and those changes are "worked out" into our lives.



Application



a) Have I ever tried to "Live the Christian life" on my own strengh?

What was the result?



b) In what practical ways is Paul's declaration that "God works in me"

good new in my life?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



2 Cor 8:9



9 (Mt 20:28; 2Co 6:10; 13:14) For you know the grace of

our Lord Jesus Christ,

that though He was rich,

yet for your sakes He became poor,

that through His poverty you might be rich.



9 For ye know the grace of

our Lord Jesus Christ,

that, though he was rich,

yet for your sakes he became poor,

that ye through his poverty might be rich.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Freeing Forgiveness



Eph 1:3-8a



Spiritual Blessings in Christ



3 (2Co 1:3; Eph 6:12; 2:6) Blessed be the God and Father of

our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual

blessing in the heavenly places in Christ,

4 (Eph 5:27; Col 1:22) just as He chose us in Him

before the foundation of the world, to be holy

and blameless before Him in love;

5 (Ro 8:29-30; Eph 1:11) He predestined us to adoption as sons

to Himself through Jesus Christ according to the good pleasure

of His will,

6 (Mt 3:17; Eph 1:12) to the praise of the glory of His grace

which He graciously bestowed on us in the Beloved.

7 (Ro 3:24; Ac 2:38; 20:28) In Him we have redemption through His blood

and the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace,

8 which He lavished



3 Blessed be the God and Father of

our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual

blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

4 according as he hath chosen us in him

before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy

and without blame before him in love:

5 having predestinated us unto the adoption of children

by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure

of his will,

6 to the praise of the glory of his grace,

wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

7 In whom we have redemption through his blood,

the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;

8 wherein he hath abounded





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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



Day 23 of the Month



a) Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those

who have committed crimes.



b) Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ

across Canada.



(



John 13:34-35



34 "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another,

even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples,

if you have love for one another."



34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another;

as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples,

if ye have love one to another.



Rom 12:10



10 Be devoted to one another with brotherly love; prefer one another in honour



10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love;

in honour preferring one another;



Heb 10:24



24 And let us consider how to spur one another to love and to good works.



24 and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:



1 Peter 3:8



8 Finally, be all of one mind, be loving toward one another, be gracious,

and be kind.



8 Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another,

love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:



1 John 3:23



23 And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name

of His Son ­Jesus Christ and love one another as He commanded us.



23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name

of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.



)





Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and Thank Him for coming into our lives.



Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, may Your kingdom come,

Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven!"



Pray to the Lord and pray to live the Christian Life on His strength.



Pray to the Lord and remember he came for us.



Pray to the Lord and Thank Him for His power of redemption.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for the genuine conversion and successful rehabilitation of those

who have committed crimes.



Pray for spiritual and functional unity in the Body of Christ

across Canada.



Pray for the success of Scripture distribution efforts that are

reaching local seekers in Bahrain.



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.

Day 265 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 22 September 2022 reflections

Day 265, 22 September 2022



1) Mark 1:1



1 (Mt 14:33) The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.



[1] The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;



Luke 1:1-4



The Prologue



1 Whereas many have undertaken to write a narrative of those things

which are most surely believed among us,

2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the beginning

were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word,

3 it seemed good to me also, having accurately investigated all things

from the very beginning, to write to you an orderly account,

most excellent Theophilus,

4 that you might know the certainty of the things which you have been told.



[1] Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration

of those things which are most surely believed among us,

[2] Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were

eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;

[3] It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all

things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent

Theophilus,

[4] That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast

been instructed.



John 1:1-18



The Word Became Flesh



1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

2 He was in the beginning with God.

3 All things were created through Him, and without Him nothing

was created that was created.

4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of mankind.

5 The light shines in darkness, but the darkness has not overcome it.

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John.

7 This man came as a witness in order to testify concerning the Light,

that all men through Him might believe.

8 He was not this Light, but was sent in order to testify

concerning the Light.

9 The true Light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.

10 He was in the world, and the world was created through Him,

yet the world did not know Him.

11 He came to His own, and His own people did not receive Him.

12 Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,

to those who believed in His name,

13 who were born not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh,

nor of the will of man, but of God.

14 The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory,

the glory as the only Son of the Father, full of grace and truth.

15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, "This was He of whom I said,

'He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me.' "

16 We have all received from His fullness grace upon grace.

17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came

through Jesus Christ.

18 No one has seen God at any time. The only Son, who is at the Father's side,

has made Him known.





[1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the

Word was God.

[2] The same was in the beginning with God.

[3] All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made

that was made.

[4] In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

[5] And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

[6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

[7] The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all

men through him might believe.

[8] He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

[9] That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into

the world.

[10] He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world

knew him not.

[11] He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

[12] But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the

sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

[13] Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of

the will of man, but of God.

[14] And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his

glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace

and truth.

[15] John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I

spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.

[16] And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.

[17] For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus

Christ.

[18] No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in

the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.





Matthew 1:1-17



The Genealogy of Jesus Christ



Lk 3:23-38



1 (Ge 22:18; Isa 11:1; Ro 1:3) The book of the genealogy

of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the son of Abraham:

2 (Ge 25:26; Ac 7:8) Abraham was the father of Isaac,

Isaac the father of Jacob,

and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers.

3 (Ge 46:12; 38:29-30) Judah was the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar,

Perez the father of Hezron,

and Hezron the father of Ram.

4 Ram was the father of Amminadab,

Amminadab the father of Nahshon,

and Nahshon the father of Salmon.

5 (Heb 11:31; Jas 2:25) Salmon was the father of Boaz by Rahab,

Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth,

and Obed the father of Jesse.

6 (1Sa 16:1; 17:12) Jesse was the father of David the king.

David the king was the father of Solomon,

by her who had been the wife of Uriah.

7 Solomon was the father of Rehoboam,

Rehoboam the father of Abijah,

and Abijah the father of Asa.

8 (1Ch 3:11) Asa was the father of Jehoshaphat,

Jehoshaphat the father of Joram,

and Joram the father of Uzziah.

9 Uzziah was the father of Jotham,

Jotham the father of Ahaz,

and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah.

10 Hezekiah was the father of Manasseh,

Manasseh the father of Amon,

and Amon the father of Josiah.

11 (Jer 27:20; Da 1:2) Josiah was the father of Jeconiah

and his brothers about the time they were exiled to Babylon.

12 (1Ch 3:17; Ezr 3:2) And after they were brought to Babylon,

Jeconiah was the father of Shealtiel,

and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel.

13 Zerubbabel was the father of Abiud,

Abiud the father of Eliakim,

and Eliakim the father of Azor.

14 Azor was the father of Zadok,

Zadok the father of Akim,

and Akim the father of Eliud.

15 Eliud was the father of Eleazar,

Eleazar the father of Matthan,

and Matthan the father of Jacob.

16 (Mt 27:17; Lk 3:23) And Jacob was the father of Joseph,

the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

17 So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations,

from David until the exile to Babylon are fourteen generations,

and from the exile in Babylon to Christ are fourteen generations.



[1] The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the

son of Abraham.

[2] Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas

and his brethren;

[3] And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom;

and Esrom begat Aram;

[4] And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson

begat Salmon;

[5] And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and

Obed begat Jesse;

[6] And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of

her that had been the wife of Urias;

[7] And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa;

[8] And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias;

[9] And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat

Ezekias;

[10] And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat

Josias;

[11] And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they

were carried away to Babylon:

[12] And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel;

and Salathiel begat Zorobabel;

[13] And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim

begat Azor;

[14] And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud;

[15] And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat

Jacob;

[16] And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who

is called Christ.

[17] So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations;

and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen

generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are

fourteen generations.



Luke 1:5-38





The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold



5 There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest

named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And his wife was

of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.

6 They were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments

and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly.

7 But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren,

and they both were now well advanced in years.

8 Now while he served as priest before God, when his division was on duty,

9 according to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn

incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

10 And the whole crowd of people were praying outside at the hour of incense.

11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side

of the altar of incense.

12 When Zechariah saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

13 But the angel said to him, "Do not fear, Zechariah, for your prayer

has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son,

and you shall call his name John.

14 You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.

15 For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink

neither wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit,

even from his mother's womb.

16 He will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God.

17 And he will go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah,

to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children

and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready

a people prepared for the Lord."

18 Zechariah said to the angel, "How shall I know this?

For I am an old man and my wife well advanced in years."

19 The angel answered him, "I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God.

And I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news.

20 And now you will be silent and unable to speak until the day

that these things happen, because you did not believe my words,

which will be fulfilled in their season."

21 The people waited for Zechariah, and wondered why he waited

so long in the temple.

22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They perceived

that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he made signs to them

and remained speechless.

23 As soon as the days of his service were fulfilled,

he departed to his own home.

24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months

she hid herself, saying,

25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,

to take away my reproach among men."



The Birth of Jesus Foretold



26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God

to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,

27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph,

of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.

28 The angel came to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favuored.

The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women."

29 When she saw him, she was troubled by his words, and considered

in her mind what kind of greeting this might be.

30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found

favour with God.

31 Listen, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son

and shall call His name JESUS.

32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.

And the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,

33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.

And of His kingdom there will be no end."

34 Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I do not know a man?"

35 The angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you,

and the power of the Highest will overshadow you.

Therefore the Holy One who will be born will be called the Son of God.

36 Listen, your cousin Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age.

And this is the sixth month with her who was declared barren.

37 For with God nothing will be impossible."

38 Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. May it be unto me according

to your word." Then the angel departed from her.



[5] There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest

named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of

Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.

[6] And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments

and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

[7] And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both

were now well stricken in years.

[8] And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before

God in the order of his course,

[9] According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn

incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

[10] And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time

of incense.

[11] And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right

side of the altar of incense.

[12] And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

[13] But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is

heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his

name John.

[14] And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his

birth.

[15] For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither

wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from

his mother's womb.

[16] And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.

[17] And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn

the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom

of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

[18] And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am

an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.

[19] And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the

presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad

tidings.

[20] And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day

that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words,

which shall be fulfilled in their season.

[21] And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so

long in the temple.

[22] And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived

that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and

remained speechless.

[23] And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were

accomplished, he departed to his own house.

[24] And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five

months, saying,

[25] Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me,

to take away my reproach among men.

[26] And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city

of Galilee, named Nazareth,

[27] To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of

David; and the virgin's name was Mary.

[28] And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly

favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

[29] And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her

mind what manner of salutation this should be.

[30] And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour

with God.

[31] And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son,

and shalt call his name JESUS.

[32] He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the

Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

[33] And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom

there shall be no end.

[34] Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a

man?

[35] And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come

upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore

also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of

God.

[36] And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her

old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

[37] For with God nothing shall be impossible.

[38] And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according

to thy word. And the angel departed from her.



2) Our Daily Bread for 22 September 2022



Entitled "People Who Need People"




Romans 16:3-16



3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,

4 who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I,

but also all the churches of the Gentiles, give thanks.

5 (1Co 16:15; 16:19) Likewise greet the church that is in their house.

Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first convert of Achaia for Christ.

6 (Ro 16:12) Greet Mary, who labored much for us.

7 (Ro 16:11; 16:21) Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen

and fellow prisoners, who are noteworthy among the apostles,

who also came to Christ before me.

8 Greet Ampliatus, my beloved in the Lord.

9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and my beloved Stachys.

10 Greet Apelles, who is approved in Christ.

Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus.

11 Greet Herodion, my kinsman.

Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus, who are in the Lord.

12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labor in the Lord.

Greet the beloved Persis, who also labored much in the Lord.

13 (Mk 15:21) Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother,

who is like a mother to me.

14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermes, Patrobas, Hermas,

and the brothers who are with them.

15 (Ro 16:2) Greet Philologus, Julia, Nereus and his sister,

and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.

16 (1Co 16:20; 2Co 13:12) Greet one another with a holy kiss.

The churches of Christ greet you.



[3] Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus:

[4] Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I

give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles.

[5] Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved

Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.

[6] Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.

[7] Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are

of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

[8] Greet Amplias my beloved in the Lord.

[9] Salute Urbane, our helper in Christ, and Stachys my beloved.

[10] Salute Apelles approved in Christ. Salute them which are of

Aristobulus' household.

[11] Salute Herodion my kinsman. Greet them that be of the household of

Narcissus, which are in the Lord.

[12] Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the

beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.

[13] Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine.

[14] Salute Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren

which are with them.

[15] Salute Philologus, and Julia, Nereus, and his sister, and Olympas, and

all the saints which are with them.

[16] Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.



In his hall-of-fame career as a sportswriter, Dave Kindred covered hundreds

of major sporting events and championships and wrote a biography of Muhammad

Ali. Growing bored in retirement, he started attending girls' basketball games

at a local school. Soon he began writing stories about each game and posting

them online. And when Dave's mother and grandson died and his wife suffered a

debilitating stroke, he realised the team he'd been covering provided him with

a sense of community and purpose. He needed them as much as they needed him.

Kindred said, "This team saved me. My life had turned dark . . . [and] they

were light."



How does a legendary journalist come to depend on a community of teenagers?

The same way a legendary apostle leaned on the fellowship of those he met on

his missionary journeys. Did you notice all the people Paul greeted as he

closed his letter? (Romans 16:3-15). "Greet Andronicus and Junia," he wrote,

"my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me" (v. 7). "Greet Ampliatus,

my dear friend in the Lord" (v. 8-). He mentions more than twenty-five people

in all, most of whom are not mentioned in Scripture again.

But Paul needed them.



Who's in your community? The best place to begin is with your local church.

Anyone there whose life has turned dark? As God leads, you can be a light

that points them to Jesus. Someday they may return the favour.



By: Mike Wittmer



Reflect & Pray



Who are the people you know you can count on?

Ask God to give you that kind of friend. How can you be a friend like that?



Father, what a friend I have in Jesus! May I be that kind of friend to others.





For further study, read Who’s My Neighbor?.




3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 5 Called by Name



Isaiah 43:1



1 But now, thus says the Lord

who created you, O Jacob,

and He who formed you, O Israel:

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;

I have called you by your name; you are Mine.



1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob,

and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:

for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name;

thou art mine.



Eric, age 4, somehow lost his mother in a large and busy department store.

Found sobbing under a coat rack, the boy tried to tell the security guard

where he was when he got separated from his mother. Finally the guard said,

"what's your name, Son? Who do you belong to?"

The child brightened a bit, gave the guard his name, and within minutes

the frantic mother was reunited with her lost son.

One of the first questions we are asked, both as children and adults, is

"What is your name?" - that is, "Who are you? Who do you belong to?"

Children bear the name of their parents, and most women,

except for professional reasons,

take the name of their husbands when they marry.

Our names are our primary method of identification;

they connect us with our heritage and those we love.

In Isaiah 43:1, God declares that we belong to him.

The Lord who created us and formed us says,

"I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine." God's

right of ownership in our lives extends beyond the bond of family and friends,

of parent, child, or spouse. We belong first to him;

we are called by him into oneness with him.

The Scripture is filled with images of the Lord's care for us;

when we are lost, he does

not wait for us to find him,

but takes the initiative, like a loving parent

to seek us out. That declaration of belonging can give us

a strong sense of security in our lives. God loves us;

he will never let us go.



Application



a) What experiences have I had of being lost of abandoned?



b) How can today's verse help me find security in belonging to God?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Deut 30:19-20



19 (Dt 4:26; 30:1) I call heaven and earth to witnesses against you this day,

that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse.

Therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;

20 (Dt 10:20; Ps 27:1) that you may love the Lord your God,

that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him,

for He is your life and the length of your days;

and that you may dwell in the land that the Lord

swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.



19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you,

that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing:

therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:

20 that thou mayest love the LORD thy God,

and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him:

for he is thy life, and the length of thy days:

that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD

sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Freeing Forgiveness



Ps 103:1-14



PSALMS 103



A Psalm of David.



1 Bless the Lord, O my soul,

and all that is within me, bless His holy name.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Bless the Lord, O my soul,

and forget not all His benefits,

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) who forgives all your iniquities,

who heals all your diseases,

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) who redeems your life from the pit,

who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) who satisfies your mouth with good things,

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) The Lord does righteousness

and justice for all who are oppressed.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) He made known His ways to Moses,

His acts to the people of Israel.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) The Lord is merciful and gracious,

slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) He will not always accuse,

neither will He keep his anger forever.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) He does not treat us according to our sins,

nor repay us according to our iniquities.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) For as the heavens are high above the earth,

so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,

so far has He removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like a father shows compassion to his children,

so the Lord gives compassion to those who fear Him.

14 For He knows how we are formed;

He remembers that we are dust.



Psalm 103



A Psalm of David.



1 Bless the LORD, O my soul:

And all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul,

And forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities;

Who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;

Who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things;

So that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment

For all that are oppressed.

7 He made known his ways unto Moses,

His acts unto the children of Israel.

8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,

Slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

9 He will not always chide:

Neither will he keep his anger for ever.

10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins;

Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

11 For as the heaven is high above the earth,

So great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

12 As far as the east is from the west,

So far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like as a father pitieth his children,

So the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

14 For he knoweth our frame;

He remembereth that we are dust.



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



22 Day of the Month



a) Pray for the Province of Quebec



I) Pray for the leaders of Quebec,

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



b) Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve

every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge

of God.



(



2 Cor 10: 3 - 5



3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.

4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God

to the pulling down of strongholds,

5 casting down imaginations and every

high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every

thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,



3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

4(for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God

to the pulling down of strong holds;)

5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself

against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought

to the obedience of Christ;



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and Thank Him for His ministry on Earth and the Power

He gives you when you accept Him as Saviour.



Pray to the Lord: "Father, what a friend I have in Jesus!

May I be that kind of friend to others"



Pray to the Lord and remember you belong to the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to honour His covenant.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as love.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that the influence of the Holy Spirit would dissolve

every argument and pretension exalted against the knowledge

of God.



Pray for Ivan, who serves as the pastor of one of the underground churches

in Brunei.



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.

Day 264 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 21 September 2022 reflections

Day 264, 21 September 2022



1) Malachi



Malachi 1



1 (Isa 13:1; Hab 1:1) The oracle of the word of the Lord to Israel by Malachi.



Israel Preferred to Edom



2 (Jer 31:3; Isa 41:8-9) I have loved you, says the Lord.

But you say, "How have You loved us?"

Was not Esau Jacob's brother? says the Lord. Yet I have loved Jacob;

3 (Jer 49:16-18; Eze 35:3-4) but Esau I have hated, and I have made

his mountains a desolation and left his inheritance for the jackals

of the desert.

4 (Isa 9:9-10; Eze 25:14) Whereas Edom says, "We are impoverished,

but we will rebuild the ruins," thus says the Lord of Hosts: They may build,

but I will tear down. They will be called the Wicked Territory,

and the people against whom the Lord has indignation forever.

5 Your eyes will see this, and you will say, "

Great is the Lord, beyond the border of Israel!"



Profane Offerings



6 (Lk 6:46; Ex 20:12) A son honors his father, and a servant his master.

If then I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master,

where is My fear? says the Lord of Hosts to you, O priests,

who despise My name.

But you say, "How have we despised Your name?"

7 (Mal 1:12) You offer defiled food on My altar, but say,

"How have we defiled You?"

By saying, "The table of the Lord is contemptible."

8 (Dt 15:21) When you offer the blind as a sacrifice, is it not evil?

When you offer the lame and sick, is it not evil?

Offer it now to your governor! Would he be pleased with you,

or accept you? says the Lord of Hosts.

9 (Jer 27:18) But now entreat God's favour, that He may be gracious to us.

With such offerings from your hands, will He accept you favorably?

says the Lord of Hosts.

10 (Jer 6:20) Who is there among you who would shut the doors, that you might

not kindle fire on My altar in vain? I have no pleasure in you, says the Lord

of Hosts, nor will I accept an offering from your hand.

11 (Isa 66:19-20; 45:6) For from the rising of the sun to its setting,

My name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense will be

offered to My name, and a pure offering. For My name will be great among

the nations, says the Lord of Hosts.

12 But you profane it, in that you say, "The table of the Lord is defiled,

and its fruit, that is, its food is contemptible."

13 (Mic 6:3) You also say, "What a weariness it is," and you snort at it,

says the Lord of Hosts.

You bring in what is stolen, the lame, or the sick;

thus you bring an offering! Should I accept this from your hand?

says the Lord.

14 (Zec 14:9; Ps 47:2) But cursed be the deceiver who has in his flock

a male, and vows, and yet sacrifices to the Lord what is blemished.

For I am a great king, says the Lord of Hosts,

and My name is to be feared among the nations.



Malachi 1

[1] The burden of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi.

[2] I have loved you, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, Wherein hast thou

loved us? Was not Esau Jacob's brother? saith the LORD: yet I loved Jacob,

[3] And I hated Esau, and laid his mountains and his heritage waste for

the dragons of the wilderness.

[4] Whereas Edom saith, We are impoverished, but we will return and

build the desolate places; thus saith the LORD of hosts, They shall

build, but I will throw down; and they shall call them, The border of

wickedness, and, The people against whom the LORD hath indignation for ever.

[5] And your eyes shall see, and ye shall say, The LORD will be

magnified from the border of Israel.

[6] A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a

father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear?

saith the LORD of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise my name. And

ye say, Wherein have we despised thy name?

[7] Ye offer polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we

polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the LORD is contemptible.

[8] And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? and if ye

offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? offer it now unto thy governor;

will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the LORD of hosts.

[9] And now, I pray you, beseech God that he will be gracious unto us:

this hath been by your means: will he regard your persons? saith the LORD of

hosts.

[10] Who is there even among you that would shut the doors for nought?

neither do ye kindle fire on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in

you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept an offering at your

hand.

[11] For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my

name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be

offered unto my name, and a pure offering: for my name shall be great among

the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.

[12] But ye have profaned it, in that ye say, The table of the LORD is

polluted; and the fruit thereof, even his meat, is contemptible.

[13] Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it! and ye have snuffed at

it, saith the LORD of hosts; and ye brought that which was torn, and the

lame, and the sick; thus ye brought an offering: should I accept this of

your hand? saith the LORD.

[14] But cursed be the deceiver, which hath in his flock a male, and voweth,

and sacrificeth unto the LORD a corrupt thing: for I am a great King, saith

the LORD of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen.



Malachi 2



Divine Warnings to the Priests



1 (Mal 1:6) And now, O priests, this commandment is for you.

2 (Mal 3:9; Ps 69:22) If you will not listen, and if you will not take it

to heart to give honor to My name, says the Lord of Hosts,

I will send a curse on you and I will curse your blessings.

Yes, I have cursed them already, because you do not take it to heart.

3 (Na 3:6; Ex 29:14) I rebuke your descendants, and spread refuse

on your faces, the refuse of your solemn feasts, and you will be taken

away with it.

4 And you will know that I have sent this command to you,

that My covenant with Levi may remain, says the Lord of Hosts.

5 (Nu 25:12-13) My covenant with him was for life and peace,

and I gave them to him. With awe he feared Me,

and he was reverent before My name.

6 (Jer 23:22; Da 12:3) True instruction was in his mouth,

and injustice was not found on his lips. He walked with Me in peace

and with uprightness, and turned many away from iniquity.

7 (Lev 10:11; Jer 18:18) For a priest's lips should preserve knowledge,

and people should seek the law from his mouth; for he is the messenger

of the Lord of Hosts.

8 (Jer 18:15; 1Sa 2:17) But you have departed from the way. You have caused

many to stumble at the law. You have violated the covenant of Levi,

says the Lord of Hosts.

9 (Dt 1:17; 1Sa 2:30) So I have made you contemptible

and base before all the people, because you have not kept My ways,

but have shown partiality in the law.



The Covenant Profaned



10 (1Co 8:6; Isa 63:16) Have we not all one Father?

Has not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously with one another,

by profaning the covenant of our fathers?

11 (Ezr 9:1-2) Judah has dealt treacherously, and an abomination

has been committed in Israel and Jerusalem. For Judah has profaned

the sanctuary of the Lord, which He loves, and has married the daughter

of a foreign god.

12 May the Lord cut off from the tents of Jacob any descendant

of the man who does this, teacher and student, yet who brings an offering

to the Lord of Hosts.

13 This is the second thing you do: You cover the altar of the Lord

with tears, with weeping and crying out, because He no longer regards

the offering, nor receives it with good will from your hand.

14 (Isa 54:6; Mal 3:5) Yet you say, "Why?" It is because the Lord

has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth,

against whom you have dealt treacherously. Yet she is your companion

and your wife by covenant.

15 (Mt 19:4-6; 1Co 7:14) Did He not make them one, having a remnant

of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring.

So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously.

16 (Mt 5:31-32; Lk 16:18) For the Lord, the God of Israel,

says that He hates divorce; for it covers one's garment with violence,

says the Lord of Hosts.

Therefore take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously.



Injustice Committed



17 (Isa 43:24; Zep 1:12) You have wearied the Lord with your words.

Yet you say, "How have we wearied Him?"

When you say, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the Lord,

and He delights in them," or, "Where is the God of justice?"



Malachi 2

[1] And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you.

[2] If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory

unto my name, saith the LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you,

and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye

do not lay it to heart.

[3] Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even

the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it.

[4] And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you, that my

covenant might be with Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.

[5] My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for

the fear wherewith he feared me, and was afraid before my name.

[6] The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his

lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from

iniquity.

[7] For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the

law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts.

[8] But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at

the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.

[9] Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the

people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the

law.

[10] Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal

treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of

our fathers?

[11] Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in

Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the LORD

which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god.

[12] The LORD will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the

scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering

unto the LORD of hosts.

[13] And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the LORD with tears,

with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the

offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.

[14] Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee

and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet

is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.

[15] And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And

wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your

spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.

[16] For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for

one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore

take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.

[17] Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we

wearied him? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of

the LORD, and he delighteth in them; or, Where is the God of judgment?



Malachi 3



The Coming Messenger



1 (Mal 4:5; Isa 63:9) I will send My messenger, and he will prepare

the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come

to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant,

in whom you delight. He is coming, says the Lord of Hosts.

2 (Zec 13:9; Rev 6:17) But who can endure the day of his coming,

and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner's fire

and like fullers' soap.

3 (Isa 1:25; Da 12:10) He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver;

he will purify the sons of Levi, and refine them like gold and silver,

and they will present to the Lord offerings in righteousness.

4 (2Ch 7:1-3) Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasant

to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.

5 (Lev 19:13; Dt 24:17) Then I will draw near to you for judgment.

I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers,

against the perjurers, against those who oppress the hired worker

in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who turn aside

the stranger, and do not fear Me, says the Lord of Hosts.



Withholding Tithes



6 (Nu 23:19; Jas 1:17; Heb 13:8) For I am the Lord, I do not change;

therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed.

7 (Zec 1:3) From the days of your fathers you have gone away from

My ordinances and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return

to you, says the Lord of Hosts.

But you say, "How shall we return?"

8 Will a man rob God? Yet you have robbed Me.

But you say, "How have we robbed You?"

In tithes and offerings.

9 (Mal 2:2) You are cursed with a curse, your whole nation,

for you are robbing Me.

10 (Ge 7:11; 2Ki 7:2) Bring all the tithes into the storehouse,

that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,

says the Lord of Hosts, if I will not open for you the windows

of heaven and pour out for you a blessing, that there will not be room

enough to receive it.

11 I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, so that it will not

estroy the fruit of your ground, and the vines in your field will not

fail to bear fruit, says the Lord of Hosts.

12 (Isa 61:9; 62:4) Then all the nations will call you blessed,

for you will be a delightful land, says the Lord of Hosts.

13 (Mal 2:17) Your words have been hard against Me, says the Lord.

Yet you say, "What have we spoken against You?"

14 (Isa 58:3; Zep 1:12) You said, "It is vain to serve God.

What profit is it that we have kept His ordinance,

and that we have walked as mourners before the Lord of Hosts?

15 (Mal 4:1; Ps 95:9) And now we call the proud blessed,

for those who do wickedness are built up; they even test God and escape."



The Reward of the Faithful



16 (Ps 56:8) Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another.

The Lord listened and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written

before Him for those who fear the Lord and who esteem His name.

17 (Ex 19:5; Dt 7:6) They shall be Mine, says the Lord of Hosts,

on the day when I make up My jewels. And I will spare them as a man

spares his son who serves him.

18 (Ge 18:25) Then you will again discern between the righteous

and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve Him.



Malachi 3

[1] Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before

me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to this temple, even the

messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith

the LORD of hosts.

[2] But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he

appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap:

[3] And he shall sit as a refiner and purifer of silver: and he shall purify

the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer

unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.

[4] Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the

LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years.

[5] And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness

against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false

swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the

widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right,

and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.

[6] For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not

consumed.

[7] Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine

ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto

you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?

[8] Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we

robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.

[9] Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole

nation.

[10] Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in

mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will

not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there

shall not be room enough to receive it.

[11] And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy

the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the

time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.

[12] And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome

land, saith the LORD of hosts.

[13] Your words have been stout against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What

have we spoken so much against thee?

[14] Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we

have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the LORD

of hosts?

[15] And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set

up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.

[16] Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD

hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him

for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.

[17] And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day when I

make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that

serveth him.

[18] Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked,

between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.



Malachi 4



The Great Day of the Lord



1 (Isa 5:24; 47:14) Surely the day is coming, burning like an oven;

all the proud, yes, all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming

will burn them up, says the Lord of Hosts, so that it will leave them

neither root nor branch.

2 (Isa 30:26; Lk 1:78) But for you who fear My name, the sun of righteousness

will rise with healing in its wings. You will go out and grow up

like calves from the stall.

3 (Job 40:12; Isa 26:6) And you will tread down the wicked, for they will be

ashes under the soles of your feet, on the day when I do this,

says the Lord of Hosts.

4 (Dt 4:10) Remember the Law of Moses, My servant, the statutes

and judgments which I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel.

5 (Lk 1:17; Joel 2:31) See, I will send you Elijah the prophet

before the coming of the great and dreaded day of the Lord.

6 (Isa 11:4; Zec 5:3) He will turn the hearts of the fathers

to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers,

lest I come and strike the earth with a curse.



[1] For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the

proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that

cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them

neither root nor branch.

[2] But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with

healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the

stall.

[3] And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the

soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the LORD of hosts.

[4] Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in

Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments.

[5] Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the

great and dreadful day of the LORD:

[6] And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the

heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with

a curse.



2) Our Daily Bread for 21 September 2022



Entitled "Living Water"




John 7:37-39



Rivers of Living Water



37 (Isa 55:1; Lev 23:36; Nu 29:35) On the last and greatest day of the feast,

Jesus stood and cried out, "If anyone is thirsty,

let him come to Me and drink.

38 (Isa 58:11; Jn 4:14) He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said,

out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water."

39 (Ac 2:17; Joel 2:28; Ac 2:33) By this He spoke of the Spirit,

whom those who believe in Him would receive. For the Holy Spirit

was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.



[37] In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried,

saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.

[38] He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly

shall flow rivers of living water.

[39] (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should

receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not

yet glorified.)



The cut flowers came from Ecuador. By the time they arrived at my house, they

were droopy and road-weary. Instructions said revive them with a cool drink

of refreshing water. Before that, however, the flower stems had to be trimmed

so they could drink the water more easily. But would they survive?



The next morning, I discovered my answer. The Ecuadorian bouquet was a

glorious sight, featuring flowers I'd never seen before. Fresh water made all

the difference-a reminder of what Jesus said about water and what it means to

believers.



When Jesus asked a Samaritan woman for a drink of water-implying He'd drink

from what she fetched from the well—He changed her life. She was surprised by

His request. Jews looked down on Samaritans. But Jesus said, "If you knew the

gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him

and he would have given you living water" (John 4:10). Later, in the temple,

He cried out, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink" (7:37). Among

those who believed in Him, "rivers of living water will flow from within them.

By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to

receive" (vv. 38-39).



God's refreshing Spirit revives us today when we're life-weary. He's the

Living Water, dwelling in our souls with holy refreshment. May we drink

deeply today.



By: Patricia Raybon



Reflect & Pray



What areas of your life feel parched and dry? What may be preventing you

from asking Jesus to give you this living water?



Loving God, when life leaves me road-weary and thirsty,

thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, the living water,

who dwells in every believer.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 4 Under the Mercy



Ps 13:5-6



5 I for my part confide in Your kindness;

may my heart exult in Your salvation!

6 I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.



5 But I have trusted in thy mercy;

My heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.

6 I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.



In Sheldon Vanauken's book "A Severe Mercy", Vanauken faced the "severe mercy"

of the untimely death of his wife. His friend C. S. Lewis , who had endured a

similar grief , comforted him through letters,

encouraging him with the exhotation, "Go under the Mercy".

While God's grace deals with sin and forgiveness,

God's mercy deals with the pain pf human existence. We all experience pain

- sometimes as a natural result of wrongs we have done, sometimes unfairly

as a consequence of living in a fallen world.

But for all who hurt, God provides

mercy - respite from pain, and the assurance of a Lord who cares.

David , in Psalm 13 says " I trust in your mercy, your unfailing love."

God's love never fail us, no matter how much we may have failed him.

David knew the consequences of sin; he knew what it meant to fail God,

to rebel against God's faithfulness. Yet David trusted in God's Goodness

rather than depending upon his own; he focused his attention upon the

mercy of the Lord.

We need, like David, to "Go under the mercy", even when it is a

"severe mercy."

Even when circumstances seem bad; even when things seem out of control; even

when we think God has forsaken us, yet his mercy is at work to bring us

fulfillment and cause us to turn to him

with a song of praise on our lips.



Application



a) How have I experienced the mercy of God?



b) How can these verses help me focus on God's

merciful intervention in my life even when circumstances seem

out of control?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Is 48:15,17



15 I, even I, have spoken, and I have called him;

I have brought him, and his way will prosper.

17 (Ps 32:8; Isa 43:14) Thus says the Lord,

your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel:

I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit,

who leads you in the way you should go.



15 I, even I, have spoken; yea, I have called him:

I have brought him, and he shall make his way prosperous.

17 Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel;

I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit,

which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Protection in Times of Trouble



Ps 91



PSALMS 91



1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High

shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress,

my God in whom I trust."

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the hunter

and from the deadly pestilence.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) He shall cover you with His feathers,

and under His wings you shall find protection;

His faithfulness shall be your shield and wall.

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You shall not be afraid of the terror by night,

nor of the arrow that flies by day;

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) nor of the pestilence that pursues in darkness,

nor of the destruction that strikes at noonday.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) A thousand may fall at your side

and ten thousand at your right hand,

but it shall not come near you.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Only with your eyes shall you behold

and see the reward of the wicked.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge,

even the Most High, your dwelling,

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) there shall be no evil befall you,

neither shall any plague come near your tent;

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) for He shall give His angels charge over you

to guard you in all your ways.

12 They shall bear you up in their hands,

lest you strike your foot against a stone.

13 You shall tread upon the lion and adder;

the young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot.

14 Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him;

I will set him on high, because he has known My name.

15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble,

and I will deliver him and honor him.

16 With long life I will satisfy him

and show him My salvation.



Psalm 91



1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High

Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress:

My God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler,

And from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust:

His truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night;

Nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness;

Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand;

But it shall not come nigh thee.

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold

And see the reward of the wicked.

9 Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge,

Even the most High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee,

Neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee,

To keep thee in all thy ways.

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands,

Lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder:

The young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him:

I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him:

I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him,



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



21st Day of the Month



a) Pray for the leaders our educational system, that they would

have wisdom and make God honouring decisions



(



1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make

supplications, prayers, intercessions,

and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 for kings and for all who are in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life

in all godliness and honesty,



)



b) Pray that those who serve in law enforcement will have the resources

they need and the vigilance their work requires.



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to give Him your first fruit.



Pray to the Lord: "Loving God, when life leaves me road-weary and thirsty,

thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, the living water,

who dwells in every believer."



Pray to the Lord and pray to have His mercies.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him as Teacher of prosperity.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as your refuge.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for the leaders our educational system, that they would

have wisdom and make God honouring decisions



Pray that those who serve in law enforcement will have the resources

they need and the vigilance their work requires.



Pray for those who hear the Gospel being reached on Arabic Christian

networks and websites in Qatar.



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.

Day 263 of My Second Bible Study Journey - 20 September reflections

Day 263, 20 September 2022



1) Nehemiah 12:27-46

Nehemiah 13

Joel 1

Joel 2

Joel 3





Nehemiah 12:27-46

Nehemiah Dedicates the City Wall



27 (1Ch 15:16; 15:28) At the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem

they sought to bring the Levites from all their places to Jerusalem

to celebrate the dedication appropriately with thanksgiving songs

and singing, accompanied by cymbals, harps, and lyres.

28 (1Ch 9:16; 2:54) The members of choirs had assembled

from the regions all around Jerusalem, from the villages of the Netophathites,

29 from Beth Gilgal, and from fields of Geba and Azmaveth,

because they had built villages for themselves all around Jerusalem.

30 (Ex 19:10; Job 1:5) Then the priests and the Levites purified themselves.

They also purified the people, the gates, and the wall.

31 (Ne 2:13; 12:38) Then I led the commanders of Judah up to the top

of the wall and appointed two great thanksgiving choirs.

The first choir proceeded to the right on the wall toward the Dung Gate.

32 Behind them followed Hoshaiah, and half of the princes of Judah,

33 with Azariah, Ezra, and Meshullam,

34 Judah, Benjamin, She­maiah, Jeremiah,

35 and some of the priests with trumpets-Zechariah, the son of Jonathan,

the son of Shemaiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Micaiah,

the son of Zakkur, the son of Asaph,

36 (Ne 12:24; 1Ch 23:5) in conjunction with his relatives-Shemaiah,

Azarel, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethanel, Judah, and Hanani,

being accompanied with the musical instruments of David the man of God.

Ezra the scribe went before them.

37 (Ne 2:14; 3:26) At the Fountain Gate, directly across from them,

they ascended the steps of the City of David, following that sloped

section of the wall up to the house of David, then eastward

to the Water Gate.

38 (Ne 3:8; 3:11) The second thanksgiving choir proceeded to the left

where I followed them with the other half of the people on top of the wall,

from the Tower of the Furnaces to the Broad Wall,

39 (Ne 3:1; 3:3; 3:6) then from above the Ephraim Gate past the Old Gate,

the Fish Gate, the Tower of Hananel, and the Tower of the Hundred,

as far as the Sheep Gate, but they stood still at the Gate of the Guard.

40 So the two thanksgiving choirs stood in the house of God, as did I

and the half of the officials with me,

41 and the priests, Eliakim, Maaseiah,

Miniamin, Micaiah, Elioenai, Zechariah, and Hananiah, with trumpets,

42 and Maaseiah, Shemaiah, Eleazar, Uzzi, Jehohanan, Malkijah, Elam,

and Ezer. The singers sang loudly. Jezrahiah was their director.

43 (Ps 92:4) On that day they offered great sacrifices

and rejoiced because God had given them great cause for rejoicing.

The wives and the children rejoiced, too.

From far away the joyful celebration of Jerusalem was heard.



Temple Responsibilities



44 (Ne 13:12-13) At that time men were appointed to govern

over the chambers for the treasures, for the contributions,

for the first fruits, and for the tithes, so that they might

gather into them out of the fields of the cities the legal portions

belonging to the priests and Levites. This was because the celebration

of Judah survived on the basis of the priests and the Levites

45 (1Ch 25:1-26) who, accompanied by the singers

and the gatekeepers, attentively preserved the practices

of their God and the practices of purification, according

to the commandment of David and of his son Solomon.

46 (2Ch 29:30) For in the former days of David and Asaph

there were leaders for the singers, the songs of praise,

and thanksgivings to God.

47 All Israel in the days of Zerubbabel and Nehemiah

gave the singers and the gatekeepers their portions,

as specified daily. Likewise, they consecrated what was

due to the Levites, who then consecrated what was due

to the descendants of Aaron.



[26] These were in the days of Joiakim the son of Jeshua, the son of

Jozadak, and in the days of Nehemiah the governor, and of Ezra the priest,

the scribe.

[27] And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites

out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication

with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals,

psalteries, and with harps.

[28] And the sons of the singers gathered themselves together, both out of

the plain country round about Jerusalem, and from the villages of

Netophathi;

[29] Also from the house of Gilgal, and out of the fields of Geba and

Azmaveth: for the singers had builded them villages round about Jerusalem.

[30] And the priests and the Levites purified themselves, and purified the

people, and the gates, and the wall.

[31] Then I brought up the princes of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two

great companies of them that gave thanks, whereof one went on the right hand

upon the wall toward the dung gate:

[32] And after them went Hoshaiah, and half of the princes of Judah,

[33] And Azariah, Ezra, and Meshullam,

[34] Judah, and Benjamin, and Shemaiah, and Jeremiah,

[35] And certain of the priests' sons with trumpets; namely, Zechariah the

son of Jonathan, the son of Shemaiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of

Michaiah, the son of Zaccur, the son of Asaph:

[36] And his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai,

Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani, with the musical instruments of David the man

of God, and Ezra the scribe before them.

[37] And at the fountain gate, which was over against them, they went up by

the stairs of the city of David, at the going up of the wall, above the

house of David, even unto the water gate eastward.

[38] And the other company of them that gave thanks went over against them,

and I after them, and the half of the people upon the wall, from beyond the

tower of the furnaces even unto the broad wall;

[39] And from above the gate of Ephraim, and above the old gate, and above

the fish gate, and the tower of Hananeel, and the tower of Meah, even unto

the sheep gate: and they stood still in the prison gate.

[40] So stood the two companies of them that gave thanks in the house of

God, and I, and the half of the rulers with me:

[41] And the priests; Eliakim, Maaseiah, Miniamin, Michaiah, Elioenai,

Zechariah, and Hananiah, with trumpets;

[42] And Maaseiah, and Shemaiah, and Eleazar, and Uzzi, and Jehohanan, and

Malchijah, and Elam, and Ezer. And the singers sang loud, with Jezrahiah

their overseer.

[43] Also that day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced: for God had

made them rejoice with great joy: the wives also and the children rejoiced:

so that the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off.

[44] And at that time were some appointed over the chambers for the

treasures, for the offerings, for the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to

gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of the law for

the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the

Levites that waited.

[45] And both the singers and the porters kept the ward of their God, and

the ward of the purification, according to the commandment of David, and of

Solomon his son.

[46] For in the days of David and Asaph of old there were chief of the

singers, and songs of praise and thanksgiving unto God.

[47] And all Israel in the days of Zerubbabel, and in the days of Nehemiah,

gave the portions of the singers and the porters, every day his portion: and

they sanctified holy things unto the Levites; and the Levites sanctified

them unto the children of Aaron.



Nehemiah 13



The Reforms of Nehemiah



1 (Dt 23:3-5; Ne 9:3) On that day they read aloud

from the Book of Moses in the hearing of the people.

In it there was found written that no Ammonite

or Moabite should ever enter the congregation of God,

2 (Dt 23:5) because they did not meet the children of Israel

with bread and water, but hired Balaam to curse them.

However, our God turned the curse into a blessing.

3 (Ne 9:2; Ex 12:38) When they heard the Law, they separated

from Israel all the racially mixed.

4 (Ne 12:44; 2:10) Before this, Eliashib the priest,

who had been appointed to govern the chambers of the house

of our God, was related to Tobiah.

5 So, he had prepared a great chamber hall for him, where previously

they had stored the contributions, the frankincense, the vessels,

and the tithes of grain, new wine, and fresh oil, as required,

for the Levites, the singers, the gatekeepers, and the contribution

for the priests.

6 (Ne 5:14) But during this time I was not in Jerusalem,

since in the 32nd year of King Artaxerxes of Babylon

I had gone to the king. At the conclusion of those days

I requested a leave of the king.

7 (Ne 13:5) When I came to Jerusalem and understood the evil

that Eliashib did for Tobiah by preparing him a chamber in the courts

of the house of God,

8 I was very grieved. So, from the chamber I threw all of the household

belongings of Tobiah outside.

9 (2Ch 29:5) Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers

so that I could return there the vessels of the house of God,

the contributions for the offerings, and the frankincense.

10 (Ne 10:37; Mal 3:8) When I perceived that the supplies

for the Levites had not been given and that the Le­vites

and the singers doing the work had fled, everyone to his own field,

11 (Ne 10:39; 13:17) I confronted the officials and asked, "Why is

the house of God forsaken?" So I gathered them and stationed

them at their posts.

12 (Ne 10:37-39; 12:44) Then all Judah brought the tithe of the grain,

the new wine, and the fresh oil to the storehouses.

13 (Ne 7:2; 12:44) Overseeing the replenishing of the storehouse,

I appointed Shelemiah the priest, Zadok the scribe,

and Pedaiah from the Levites, and to assist them Hanan the son of Zakkur,

the son of Mattaniah, for they were considered reliable,

and their task was to distribute to their relatives.

14 (Ne 5:19; 13:22) Remember me, O my God, concerning this. Do not blot out

my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God and its workings.

15 (Ne 10:31; Ex 34:21) In those days I saw in Judah some treading

winepresses on the Sabbath or hauling loads of grain or loading donkeys

with wine, grapes, figs, and all manner of burdens in order to bring

them to Jerusalem on the Sabbath day. So, during the day

while they were selling the food goods, I warned them.

16 Men of Tyre also stayed there, having hauled in fish

and all kinds of merchandise, and sold them on the Sabbath

to the people of Judah, and in Jerusalem.

17 (Ne 13:11; 13:25) Then I confronted the nobles of Judah and asked them,

"What is this evil thing that you are doing, profaning the Sabbath day?

18 (Jer 17:21-23) Did not your fathers do likewise?

Did not our God bring all this evil against us and against this city?

Will you yet bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the Sabbath?"

19 (Lev 23:32) As the gates of Jerusalem began to cast the evening shadow

before the Sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut,

and charged that they should not be opened until after the Sabbath.

Some of my servants I stationed at the gates so that there would be

no loads brought in on the Sabbath day.

20 Once or twice the merchants and sellers of all kind of merchandise

lodged outside Jerusalem.

21 So I warned them and said to them, "Why do you spend the night next

to the wall? If you do so again, I will send you away by force."

From that time on they stopped coming on the Sabbath.

22 (Ne 12:30; 13:14) Then I commanded the Levites to purify themselves

so that they could come and, as guardians of the gates,

sanctify the Sabbath day.

Remember me, O my God, concerning this also,

and spare me according to Your abundant mercy.

23 (Ne 10:30; Ezr 9:1-2) Moreover, in those days I also saw Jews

who had married the women of Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab.

24 Half of their children spoke in the language of Ashdod,

yet none of them could recognize the language of the Jews.

This was true language by language.

25 (Ezr 10:5; Ne 10:29-30) So I confronted them and cursed them.

Some of the men I beat. Others, I plucked out their hair.

Also, I made them swear an oath by God and said to them,

"You shall neither give your daughters to their sons,

nor marry their daughters to your sons or to yourselves.

26 (1Ki 3:13; 2Ch 1:12) Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things?

Yet among many nations there was no king like him. He was loved by his God,

who made him king over all Israel. Nevertheless, foreign women caused

even him to sin.

27 (Ezr 10:2) Should we then listen to you, the ones doing

all this great evil, who are behaving unfaithfully against our God

by bedding foreign women?"

28 (Ne 2:19; 2:10) Also, one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib

the high priest, was a son-in-law to Sanballat the Horonite, so I drove

him away from me.

29 (Ne 6:14) Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood

and the covenant of the priesthood and the Levites.

30 (Ne 10:30) Thus I purified them from everything foreign

and appointed work crews for the priests and the Levites, each to his task,

31 (Ne 10:34; 13:14) and I provided the wood offering, at the appointed times,

and the first fruits.

Remember me, O my God, for good.



Nehemiah 13

[1] On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the

people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite

should not come into the congregation of God for ever;

[2] Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water,

but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God

turned the curse into a blessing.

[3] Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated

from Israel all the mixed multitude.

[4] And before this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the

chamber of the house of our God, was allied unto Tobiah:

[5] And he had prepared for him a great chamber, where aforetime they laid

the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the

corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded to be given to the

Levites, and the singers, and the porters; and the offerings of the priests.

[6] But in all this time was not I at Jerusalem: for in the two and

thirtieth year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon came I unto the king, and after

certain days obtained I leave of the king:

[7] And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of the evil that Eliashib did

for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.

[8] And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the household stuff

of Tobiah out of the chamber.

[9] Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers: and thither brought I

again the vessels of the house of God, with the meat offering and the

frankincense.

[10] And I perceived that the portions of the Levites had not been given

them: for the Levites and the singers, that did the work, were fled every

one to his field.

[11] Then contended I with the rulers, and said, Why is the house of God

forsaken? And I gathered them together, and set them in their place.

[12] Then brought all Judah the tithe of the corn and the new wine and the

oil unto the treasuries.

[13] And I made treasurers over the treasuries, Shelemiah the priest, and

Zadok the scribe, and of the Levites, Pedaiah: and next to them was Hanan

the son of Zaccur, the son of Mattaniah: for they were counted faithful, and

their office was to distribute unto their brethren.

[14] Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds

that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.

[15] In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath,

and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs,

and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath

day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals.

[16] There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all

manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in

Jerusalem.

[17] Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What

evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?

[18] Did not your fathers thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon

us, and upon this city? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the

sabbath.

[19] And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark

before the sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged

that they should not be opened till after the sabbath: and some of my

servants set I at the gates, that there should no burden be brought in on

the sabbath day.

[20] So the merchants and sellers of all kind of ware lodged without

Jerusalem once or twice.

[21] Then I testified against them, and said unto them, Why lodge ye about

the wall? if ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth

came they no more on the sabbath.

[22] And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and

that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day.

Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the

greatness of thy mercy.

[23] In those days also saw I Jews that had married wives of Ashdod, of

Ammon, and of Moab:

[24] And their children spake half in the speech of Ashdod, and could not

speak in the Jews' language, but according to the language of each people.

[25] And I contended with them, and cursed them, and smote certain of them,

and plucked off their hair, and made them swear by God, saying, Ye shall not

give your daughters unto their sons, nor take their daughters unto your

sons, or for yourselves.

[26] Did not Solomon king of Israel sin by these things? yet among many

nations was there no king like him, who was beloved of his God, and God made

him king over all Israel: nevertheless even him did outlandish women cause

to sin.

[27] Shall we then hearken unto you to do all this great evil, to transgress

against our God in marrying strange wives?

[28] And one of the sons of Joiada, the son of Eliashib the high priest, was

son in law to Sanballat the Horonite: therefore I chased him from me.

[29] Remember them, O my God, because they have defiled the priesthood, and

the covenant of the priesthood, and of the Levites.

[30] Thus cleansed I them from all strangers, and appointed the wards of the

priests and the Levites, every one in his business;

[31] And for the wood offering, at times appointed, and for the firstfruits.

Remember me, O my God, for good.



Joel 1



1 (Jer 1:2; Ac 2:16) The word of the Lord, which came to Joel, son of Pethuel.



A Land Laid Waste



2 (Hos 5:1; Joel 2:2) Hear this, elders,

and give ear, all inhabitants of the land!

Has anything like this happened in your days,

or in the days of your fathers?

3 Tell it to your children,

and let your children tell their children,

and let their children tell another generation.

4 (Joel 2:25; Am 4:9; Ex 10:4) What the fledging locust left,

the adult locust has eaten;

what the adult locust left,

the larval locust has eaten;

what the larval locust left,

the hopper locust has eaten.

5 Awaken, drunkards, and weep!

Wail, all wine-drinkers,

because the sweet wine

has been cut off from your lips.

6 (Joel 2:25) For a nation powerful and innumerable

has invaded my land;

its teeth are like the teeth of a lion,

like the fangs of a lioness.

7 (Isa 5:6; Joel 1:12) It has despoiled my vine,

and splintered my fig tree;

it has stripped off its bark

and cast it away,

leaving its branches white.

8 (Isa 22:12) Lament like a virgin wearing sackcloth

for the husband of her youth.

9 (Joel 2:14; 2:17) The grain offering and the drink offering

are cut off from the house of the Lord;

the priests mourn, who are

ministers to the Lord.

10 (Jer 12:11; Hos 4:3) The field is ravaged,

the ground mourns;

for the grain is ruined,

the new wine is dried up,

and the oil dwindles.

11 (Isa 17:11; Jer 9:12) Despair, fieldworkers;

wail, vinedressers,

for the wheat and the barley,

because the harvest of the field has perished.

12 (Isa 24:11; SS 2:3) The vine is dried up,

and the fig tree is withered;

pomegranate, palm, and apple-

all the trees of the field are dry;

surely joy has withered away

from the sons of men.



A Call to Repentance



13 (Jer 4:8; Joel 1:8-9) Put on sackcloth and lament, O priests;

wail, ministers of the altar.

Come, spend the night in sackcloth,

ministers of my God,

because the grain offering and the drink offering

are withheld from the house of your God.

14 (Joel 2:15–16; Jnh 3:8) Consecrate a fast,

call a sacred assembly,

assemble the elders

and all the inhabitants of the land

to the house of the Lord your God,

and cry out to the Lord.

15 (Jer 30:7; Eze 7:2-12) Alas, for the day!

For the day of the Lord is near,

and like devastation from the Almighty it comes.

16 (Dt 12:6-7; Ps 43:4) Has not the food been cut off

before our eyes,

joy and gladness

from the house of our God?

17 The seeds have shriveled

under their shovels,

the storehouses have been deserted;

the granaries have been torn down,

because the grain has dried up.

18 (Jer 12:4; Hos 4:3) How the beasts groan!

The herds of cattle are confused,

because they have no pasture;

even the flocks of sheep suffer.

19 (Ps 50:15; Jer 9:10) To You, O Lord, I call,

because fire has devoured the wild pastures,

and flame has burned all the trees of the field.

20 (Ps 104:21; 1Ki 17:7) Even the beasts of the field long for You,

because the streams of water have dried up,

and fire has devoured the wild pastures.



Joel 1

[1] The word of the LORD that came to Joel the son of Pethuel.

[2] Hear this, ye old men, and give ear, all ye inhabitants of the land.

Hath this been in your days, or even in the days of your fathers?

[3] Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children,

and their children another generation.

[4] That which the palmerworm hath left hath the locust eaten; and that

which the locust hath left hath the cankerworm eaten; and that which the

cankerworm hath left hath the caterpiller eaten.

[5] Awake, ye drunkards, and weep; and howl, all ye drinkers of wine,

because of the new wine; for it is cut off from your mouth.

[6] For a nation is come up upon my land, strong, and without number, whose

teeth are the teeth of a lion, and he hath the cheek teeth of a great lion.

[7] He hath laid my vine waste, and barked my fig tree: he hath made it

clean bare, and cast it away; the branches thereof are made white.

[8] Lament like a virgin girded with sackcloth for the husband of her youth.

[9] The meat offering and the drink offering is cut off from the house of

the LORD; the priests, the LORD's ministers, mourn.

[10] The field is wasted, the land mourneth; for the corn is wasted: the new

wine is dried up, the oil languisheth.

[11] Be ye ashamed, O ye husbandmen; howl, O ye vinedressers, for the wheat

and for the barley; because the harvest of the field is perished.

[12] The vine is dried up, and the fig tree languisheth; the pomegranate

tree, the palm tree also, and the apple tree, even all the trees of the

field, are withered: because joy is withered away from the sons of men.

[13] Gird yourselves, and lament, ye priests: howl, ye ministers of the

altar: come, lie all night in sackcloth, ye ministers of my God: for the

meat offering and the drink offering is withholden from the house of your

God.

[14] Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders and all

the inhabitants of the land into the house of the LORD your God, and cry

unto the LORD,

[15] Alas for the day! for the day of the LORD is at hand, and as a

destruction from the Almighty shall it come.

[16] Is not the meat cut off before our eyes, yea, joy and gladness from the

house of our God?

[17] The seed is rotten under their clods, the garners are laid desolate,

the barns are broken down; for the corn is withered.

[18] How do the beasts groan! the herds of cattle are perplexed, because

they have no pasture; yea, the flocks of sheep are made desolate.

[19] O LORD, to thee will I cry: for the fire hath devoured the pastures of

the wilderness, and the flame hath burned all the trees of the field.

[20] The beasts of the field cry also unto thee: for the rivers of waters

are dried up, and the fire hath devoured the pastures of the wilderness.



Joel 2



The Day of the Lord



1 (Joel 1:15; 2:15) Blow the ram's horn in Zion,

sound the alarm on My holy mountain!

All the inhabitants of the earth will tremble,

because the day of the Lord has come,

because it is near-

2 (Joel 1:6; 2:25) a day of darkness and gloom,

a day of clouds and thick darkness.

Like blackness spreading over the mountain,

a great and mighty army comes,

such as was never before,

and will never be again,

even through the years of all generations.

3 (Ge 2:8; Isa 51:3) Before them fire devours,

and behind them a flame blazes;

the land is like the garden of Eden before them,

but behind them a desolate wasteland,

and nothing escapes them.

4 (Rev 9:7) They have the appearance of horses,

and like cavalry they run.

5 (Isa 5:24; Rev 9:9) As with the sound of chariots,

they leap on the mountaintops,

as with the sound of a flame of fire consuming stubble,

as a mighty army arrayed for war.

6 (Na 2:10; Isa 13:8) Before them, peoples are tormented;

every face turns pale.

7 (Pr 30:27) Like mighty men they run,

like men of war they scale a wall;

each marches on his way,

they do not swerve from their paths.

8 They do not jostle one another;

each marches in his track.

Through the weapons they plunge;

they do not break rank.

9 (Jer 9:21; Jn 10:1) They rush on the city,

they run on the wall;

they climb up into the houses,

they enter through the windows like thieves.

10 (Ps 18:7; Isa 13:10) Before them the earth quakes,

the heavens shake;

the sun and moon darken,

and the stars withdraw their radiance.

11 (Rev 18:8; Joel 3:16) The Lord has sounded His voice

before His army,

for His camp is exceedingly great;

mighty is the one who accomplishes His word.

For great is the day of the Lord,

and very awe-inspiring.

Who can endure it?



Return to the Lord



12 (Jer 4:1; Hos 12:6) Yet even now, declares the Lord,

return to Me with all your heart,

and with fasting and with weeping and with mourning.

13 (Ps 34:18; Jnh 4:2) Rend your heart,

and not your garments;

return to the Lord your God,

for He is gracious and merciful,

slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love;

and He relents from punishing.

14 (Joel 1:13; Hag 2:19) Who knows? He might turn aside and relent,

and He might leave behind a blessing—

a grain offering and a food offering

for the Lord your God.

15 (Joel 1:14; Nu 10:3) Blow the ram's horn in Zion,

consecrate a fast,

call a sacred assembly.

16 (Ex 19:10; 19:22) Gather the people,

consecrate the congregation,

assemble the elders,

gather the children

and those nursing at the breast;

let the bridegroom leave his room

and the bride her chamber.

17( Eze 8:16; Ps 79:10) Between the temple porch and the altar,

let the priests, ministers of the Lord, weep and say,

"Have pity upon Your people,

and do not make Your heritage a disgrace,

a mockery among the nations.

Why should they say among the peoples,

'Where is their God?' "



Rescue and Restitution



18 (Zec 1:14; 8:2) Then the Lord became jealous for His land

and took pity upon His people.

19 (Eze 34:29; Joel 1:10) So the Lord answered and said to His people,

Here! I am sending you grain, new wine, and oil,

and you will be satisfied,

and I will never again make you

a disgrace among the nations.

20 (Zec 14:8; Dt 11:24; Isa 34:3) I will remove the northerner far from you,

and I will banish him to a dry and desolate land,

those in front to the eastern sea,

and those in back to the western sea,

and his stink will rise,

and his stench will rise,

for he has done great things.

21 (Isa 54:4; Zep 3:16-17) Do not be afraid, land;

exult and rejoice,

for the Lord has done great things!

22 (Ps 65:12; Joel 1:18-20) Do not be afraid, beasts of the field,

because the wild pastures flourish,

because the tree bears its fruit;

the fig tree and the vine yield their abundance.

23 (Zec 10:7; Lev 26:4) And children of Zion, exult

and rejoice in the Lord your God,

because He has given to you

the early rain for vindication.

He showers down rains for you,

the early rain and the latter rain, as before.

24 (Lev 26:10; Am 9:13) Then the threshing floors will be filled with grain,

and the vats will overflow with new wine and oil.

25 (Joel 1:4-7; 2:2-11) And I will compensate you for the years the locusts

have eaten-the larval locust, the hopper locust,

and the fledging locust-

My great army which I sent against you.

26 (Lev 26:5; Isa 25:1) You will eat abundantly and be satisfied,

and you will praise the name of the Lord your God,

who has worked wonders for you;

and My people will never again be shamed.

27 (Joel 3:17; Lev 26:11-12) Then you will know that I am in the midst

of Israel, that I am the Lord your God,

and that there is no other.

And My people will never again be shamed.



The Outpouring of the Spirit



28 (Eze 39:29; Isa 32:15) And it will be that, afterwards,

I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

then your sons and your daughters will prophesy,

your old men will dream dreams,

and your young men will see visions.

29 (1Co 12:13; Gal 3:28) Even on the menservants and maidservants

in those days I will pour out My Spirit.

30 (Lk 21:11; Mt 24:29) Then I will work wonders in the heavens

and the earth-

blood and fire and columns of smoke.

31 (Mal 4:5; Isa 13:9-10) The sun will be turned to darkness,

and the moon to blood,

before the great and awe-inspiring day of the Lord comes.

32 (Isa 46:13; Ob 1:17) And it will be that everyone

who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.

For on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem

there will be deliverance,

as the Lord has said,

and among the survivors

whom the Lord calls.



Joel 2

[1] Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let

all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for

it is nigh at hand;

[2] A day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick

darkness, as the morning spread upon the mountains: a great people and a

strong; there hath not been ever the like, neither shall be any more after

it, even to the years of many generations.

[3] A fire devoureth before them; and behind them a flame burneth: the land

is as the garden of Eden before them, and behind them a desolate wilderness;

yea, and nothing shall escape them.

[4] The appearance of them is as the appearance of horses; and as horsemen,

so shall they run.

[5] Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap,

like the noise of a flame of fire that devoureth the stubble, as a strong

people set in battle array.

[6] Before their face the people shall be much pained: all faces shall

gather blackness.

[7] They shall run like mighty men; they shall climb the wall like men of

war; and they shall march every one on his ways, and they shall not break

their ranks:

[8] Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path:

and when they fall upon the sword, they shall not be wounded.

[9] They shall run to and fro in the city; they shall run upon the wall,

they shall climb up upon the houses; they shall enter in at the windows like

a thief.

[10] The earth shall quake before them; the heavens shall tremble: the sun

and the moon shall be dark, and the stars shall withdraw their shining:

[11] And the LORD shall utter his voice before his army: for his camp is

very great: for he is strong that executeth his word: for the day of the

LORD is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?

[12] Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your

heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:

[13] And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your

God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness,

and repenteth him of the evil.

[14] Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind

him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?

[15] Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly:

[16] Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders,

gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go

forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.

[17] Let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep between the porch and

the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O LORD, and give not thine

heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore

should they say among the people, Where is their God?

[18] Then will the LORD be jealous for his land, and pity his people.

[19] Yea, the LORD will answer and say unto his people, Behold, I will send

you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will

no more make you a reproach among the heathen:

[20] But I will remove far off from you the northern army, and will drive

him into a land barren and desolate, with his face toward the east sea, and

his hinder part toward the utmost sea, and his stink shall come up, and his

ill savour shall come up, because he hath done great things.

[21] Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great

things.

[22] Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field: for the pastures of the

wilderness do spring, for the tree beareth her fruit, the fig tree and the

vine do yield their strength.

[23] Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God:

for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come

down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first

month.

[24] And the floors shall be full of wheat, and the fats shall overflow with

wine and oil.

[25] And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the

cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I

sent among you.

[26] And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of

the LORD your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and my people shall

never be ashamed.

[27] And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the

LORD your God, and none else: and my people shall never be ashamed.

[28] And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit

upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old

men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:

[29] And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I

pour out my spirit.

[30] And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and

fire, and pillars of smoke.

[31] The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before

the great and the terrible day of the LORD come.

[32] And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the

LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be

deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall

call.



Joel 3



Judging the Nations



1 (Jer 16:15; 30:3) In those days and at that time,

when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem,

2 (Isa 66:16; Eze 35:10) I will gather all the nations,

and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat.

I will enter into judgment with them there

regarding My people and My heritage Israel,

whom they have scattered among the nations;

they have also divided up My land.

3 (Am 2:6; Ob 1:11) They have cast lots for My people,

and have traded a boy for a prostitute;

they have sold a girl for wine,

that they might drink.

4 (Isa 34:8; 59:18) Also, what are you to Me, Tyre and Sidon

and all the regions of Philistia? Are you repaying Me

for something? If you are repaying Me, I will return your payment

swiftly and speedily on your head.

5 (2Ki 12:18; 2Ch 21:16-17) For you have taken My silver and My gold,

and you have carried off My finest treasures to your temples.

6 (Eze 27:13; Joel 3:3) You have sold the people of Judah

and Jerusalem to the Greeks in order to remove them far from their border.

7 (Isa 43:5-6; Jer 23:8) I am about to rouse them from the place

to which you have sold them, and I will return your payment on your head.

8 (Isa 60:14; Job 1:15) I will sell your sons and your daughters

into the hand of the people of Judah, and they will sell them

to the Sabeans-to a distant nation, for the Lord has spoken.

9 (Isa 8:9-10; Jer 46:3-4) Proclaim this among the nations:

Consecrate a war!

Stir up the mighty men!

Let all the men of war draw near and rise.

10 (Isa 2:4; Mic 4:3) Beat your plowshares into swords

and your pruning hooks into spears;

let the weakling say,

"I am a warrior!"

11 (Isa 13:3; Zep 3:8) Hurry and come, all you surrounding nations,

and gather there.

Bring down Your warriors, O Lord.

12 (Isa 2:4; Ps 96:13) Let the nations be roused,

and go up to the Valley of Jehoshaphat;

for there I will sit

to judge all the surrounding nations.

13 (Hos 6:11; Isa 63:3) Swing the sickle,

for the harvest is ripe.

Come and tread,

for the winepress is full.

The wine vats overflow,

because their evil is great.

14 (Isa 34:2-8; Joel 1:15) Multitudes, multitudes,

in the valley of decision!

For the day of the Lord is near

in the valley of the decision.

15 (Joel 2:10; 2:31) The sun and moon darken,

and the stars withdraw their radiance.

16 (Am 1:2; Eze 38:19) The Lord roars from Zion,

and sounds His voice from Jerusalem,

and heaven and earth quake.

But the Lord is a refuge for His people,

and a stronghold for the children of Israel.



The Lord Dwells in Zion



17 (Joel 2:27; Isa 4:3) Then you will know that I am the Lord your God,

who dwells in Zion, My holy mountain.

And Jerusalem will be holy,

and invaders will never again pass through her.

18 (Isa 30:25; 35:6) And it will be that in that day the mountains will drip

sweet wine, and the hills will flow with milk,

and all the streambeds of Judah will flow with water;

a spring will proceed from the house of the Lord

and will water the Valley of Shittim.

19 (Isa 19:1-15) Egypt will become a desolation,

and Edom a desolate wasteland,

because of the violence done to the people of Judah-

they shed innocent blood in their land.

20 (Eze 37:25; Am 9:15) But Judah will be inhabited forever,

and Jerusalem for generations and generations.

21 (Isa 4:4; Eze 36:25) I will avenge their blood,

which I have not yet avenged.

The Lord dwells in Zion!



Joel 3

[1] For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again

the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem,

[2] I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley

of Jehoshaphat, and will plead with them there for my people and for my

heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, and parted my

land.

[3] And they have cast lots for my people; and have given a boy for an

harlot, and sold a girl for wine, that they might drink.

[4] Yea, and what have ye to do with me, O Tyre, and Zidon, and all the

coasts of Palestine? will ye render me a recompence? and if ye recompence

me, swiftly and speedily will I return your recompence upon your own head;

[5] Because ye have taken my silver and my gold, and have carried into your

temples my goodly pleasant things:

[6] The children also of Judah and the children of Jerusalem have ye sold

unto the Grecians, that ye might remove them far from their border.

[7] Behold, I will raise them out of the place whither ye have sold them,

and will return your recompence upon your own head:

[8] And I will sell your sons and your daughters into the hand of the

children of Judah, and they shall sell them to the Sabeans, to a people far

off: for the LORD hath spoken it.

[9] Proclaim ye this among the Gentiles; Prepare war, wake up the mighty

men, let all the men of war draw near; let them come up:

[10] Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears:

let the weak say, I am strong.

[11] Assemble yourselves, and come, all ye heathen, and gather yourselves

together round about: thither cause thy mighty ones to come down, O LORD.

[12] Let the heathen be wakened, and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat:

for there will I sit to judge all the heathen round about.

[13] Put ye in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come, get you down; for

the press is full, the fats overflow; for their wickedness is great.

[14] Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the

LORD is near in the valley of decision.

[15] The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall withdraw

their shining.

[16] The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from

Jerusalem; and the heavens and the earth shall shake: but the LORD will be

the hope of his people, and the strength of the children of Israel.

[17] So shall ye know that I am the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy

mountain: then shall Jerusalem be holy, and there shall no strangers pass

through her any more.

[18] And it shall come to pass in that day, that the mountains shall drop

down new wine, and the hills shall flow with milk, and all the rivers of

Judah shall flow with waters, and a fountain shall come forth of the house

of the LORD, and shall water the valley of Shittim.

[19] Egypt shall be a desolation, and Edom shall be a desolate wilderness,

for the violence against the children of Judah, because they have shed

innocent blood in their land.

[20] But Judah shall dwell for ever, and Jerusalem from generation to

generation.

[21] For I will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed: for the LORD

dwelleth in Zion.



2) Our Daily Bread for 19 September 2022



Entitled "Reckless Decisions"




Numbers 20:1-12



NUMBERS 20



Moses Strikes the Rock



1 (Nu 13:21; Ex 15:20) Then the children of Israel, the whole assembly,

came to the Wilderness of Zin in the first month, and the people dwelt

in Kadesh, and Miriam died there and was buried there.

2 (Nu 16:19; 16:42) And there was no water for the assembly, and they

gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron.

3 (Ex 17:2; Nu 16:31-35) The people argued with Moses, and spoke, saying,

"O that we had died when our brothers died before the Lord!

4 (Ex 17:3) And why have you brought up the assembly of the Lord

into this wilderness, that we and our livestock should die here?

5 (Nu 16:14) And why have you brought us up from Egypt, to bring

us into this evil place? It is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines,

or of pomegranates. Nor is there any water to drink."

6 (Nu 14:5; 16:4) Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly

to the door of the tent of meeting, and they fell on their faces,

and the glory of the Lord appeared to them.

7 The Lord spoke to Moses, saying:

8 (Ex 4:17; 17:5-6) Take the rod, and gather the assembly together,

you and Aaron your brother, and speak to the rock before their eyes,

and it will give its water, and you will bring out to them water

from the rock; so you will give the assembly and their livestock drink.

9 (Nu 17:10) So Moses took the rod from before the Lord, as He commanded him.

10 (Ps 106:32-33) Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly before the rock,

and he said to them, "Hear now, you rebels.

Will we bring out water from this rock for you?"

11 (1Co 10:4; Ex 17:6) And Moses lifted up his hand, and he struck the rock

twice with his rod, and plenty of water came out, and the assembly drank,

and their livestock.

12 (Nu 27:14; Dt 1:37) The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron,

"Because you did not believe in Me, to sanctify Me in the eyes of

the children of Israel, therefore you will not bring this assembly

into the land which I have given them"



[1] Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the

desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam

died there, and was buried there.

[2] And there was no water for the congregation: and they gathered

themselves together against Moses and against Aaron.

[3] And the people chode with Moses, and spake, saying, Would God that we

had died when our brethren died before the LORD!

[4] And why have ye brought up the congregation of the LORD into this

wilderness, that we and our cattle should die there?

[5] And wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in

unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of

pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink.

[6] And Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly unto the door

of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they fell upon their faces: and

the glory of the LORD appeared unto them.

[7] And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,

[8] Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy

brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give

forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock:

so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

[9] And Moses took the rod from before the LORD, as he commanded him.

[10] And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock,

and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of

this rock?

[11] And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice:

and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their

beasts also.

[12] And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to

sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not

bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.



As a teen, I was driving way too fast trying to follow my friend to his home

after a high school basketball practice. It was raining hard, and I was having

a hard time keeping up with his car. Suddenly, my wipers cleared the watery

windshield only to reveal my friend's sedan stopped in front of me! I slammed

on the brakes, slid off the street, and struck a large tree. My car was

destroyed. Later I awoke in the comatose ward of a local hospital. While by

God's grace I survived, my reckless ways had proved to be very costly.



Moses made a reckless decision that cost him greatly. His poor choice,

however, involved a lack of water-not too much of it (as in my case). The

Israelites were without water in the Desert of Zin, and "the people gathered

in opposition to Moses" (Numbers 20:2). God told the frazzled leader to speak

to a rock and it would "pour out its water" (v. 8-). Instead, he "struck the

rock twice" (v. 11). God said, "Because you did not trust in me . . . , you

will not [enter the promised land]" (v. 12).



When we make reckless decisions, we pay the consequences. "Desire without

knowledge is not good—how much more will hasty feet miss the way!"

(Proverbs 19:2). May we prayerfully, carefully seek God's wisdom and guidance

in the choices and decisions we make today.



By: Tom Felten



Reflect & Pray



What regrettable decisions have you made based on impulse? Why is it vital

to slow down and prayerfully seek God's wisdom before reacting?



Jesus, please help me to follow Your wise instruction as Your Spirit leads me.





For further study, read Making Decisions God’s Way.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 3 The song of Exaltation



Exodus 15:2



2 The Lord is my strength and song,

and He has become my salvation.

He is my God, and I will praise Him;

my father's God, and I will exalt Him.



2 The LORD is my strength and song,

And he is become my salvation:

He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation;

My father's God, and I will exalt him.



The world is full of music that communicates human emotion:

love, joy, sadness, separation.

A love song makes us misty-eyed; a song of protest arouses anger; a song

describing loss stimulates feelings of hurt and abandonment.

Music is a powerful force to sway the human spirit.

Exodus 15:2 indicates that God should be the source of the songs in our hearts.

Human emotions vacillate; human relationships disappoint,

but God is our "strength" and our "song".

To exalt the Lord includes many different type of "songs".

"I can't carry a tune in a bucket," one woman complained.

"How can I sing to the Lord anything that will be pleasing to him?"

But the Lord does not delight in the professionalism of our songs,

but in the motivation of our hearts. We can "sing to the Lord"

when we enjoy a Bach organ piece played for his glory.

We can exalt him in the words of Scripture - either remembered or sung.

We can worship him by enjoying the songs of others.

The key to making the Lord our song is exaltation. When our thoughts

lift him up in praise, we are singing a song of exaltation to the Lord.

When God is exalted in our songs, in our hearts, and in our thoughts,

that focus gives strength to our lives. We can face the difficulties

that are an inevitable part of experience,

because God is our "strength and our song".



Application



a) What is the difference between a song that is professionally performed

and one that exalts the Lord?



b) What practical steps can I take to make

my daily life a "song of praise" to God?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



2 Chr 31:21



21 And in every deed that he undertook in the service of the house

of God and with the law and commandment to seek out his God,

he did this with all his heart, and he found success.



21 And in every work that he began in the service of the house

of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God,

he did it with all his heart, and prospered.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Protection in Times of Trouble



Ps 27:1-6



PSALMS 27



A Psalm of David.



1 The Lord is my light and my salvation;

whom will I fear?

The Lord is the strength of my life;

of whom will I be afraid?

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) When the wicked came against me

to eat my flesh -

my enemies and my foes -

they stumbled and fell.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Though an army should encamp against me,

my heart will not fear;

though war should rise against me,

in this will I be confident.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) One thing I have asked from the Lord,

that will I seek after -

for me to dwell in the house of the Lord

all the days of my life,

to see the beauty of the Lord,

and to inquire in His temple.

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) For in the time of trouble

He will hide me in His pavilion;

in the shelter of His tabernacle He will hide me;

He will set me up on a rock.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8 - 9) Now my head will be lifted up

above my enemies encircling me;

therefore I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle;

I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord.



1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

2 When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes,

came upon me to eat up my flesh,

They stumbled and fell.

3 Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear:

Though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.

4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after;

That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,

To behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.

5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion:

In the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me;

he shall set me up upon a rock.

6 And now shall mine head be lifted up,

Above mine enemies round about me:

Therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy;

I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.



Remember God's promises when You pray



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



20th Day of the Month



a) Pray for the children of Canada, that they would come to know

Jesus Christ as their Saviour and Lord.



( Matthew 19:14



14 (Mt 18:3; Lk 18:16-17)

But Jesus said, "Let the little children come to Me,

and do not forbid them. For to such belongs the kingdom of heaven."



14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not,

to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.



)



b) Pray that Christians will recognise that our struggle is not

against the natural world but against invisible spiritual forces.



(



Eph 6:12



12 (Eph 1:3; 1:21) For our fight is not against flesh and blood,

but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers

of the darkness of this world, and against spiritual forces

of evil in the heavenly places.



12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities,

against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against

spiritual wickedness in high places.



)





Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to seek His Favour.



Pray to the Lord: "Jesus, please help me to follow

Your wise instruction as Your Spirit leads me."



Pray to the Lord and pray to make your life a Song of Praise for the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to seek Him fully and you will prosper.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as light, mecry and salvation.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for the children of Canada, that they would come to know

Jesus Christ as their Saviour and Lord.



Pray that Christians will recognise that our struggle is not

against the natural world but against invisible spiritual forces.



Pray for Christian leaders from Muslim backgrounds in Ethiopia who risk

their lives to share the Gospel.



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.

Day 262 of My Second Bible Study Journey - 19 September reflections

Day 262, 19 September 2022



1) Nehemiah 11

Nehemiah 12:1-26

1 Chronicles 9:1-34



Nehemiah 11

The Residents of Jerusalem



1 Ch 9:1-17



1 (Ne 11:18; Isa 48:2) Now the rulers of the people lived at Jerusalem,

so the rest of the people cast lots in order to bring one out of ten

to stay in Jerusalem, the holy city, while the other nine remained

in other cities.

2 (Jdg 5:9) The people blessed all the men who volunteered to dwell

in Jerusalem.

3 (Ezr 2:43; 2:1) Now these are the leaders of the provinces

who lived in Jerusalem (though in the cities of Judah

every one lived on his own property within their cities):

Israel, the priests, the Levites, the temple servants,

and the descendants of Solomon's servants.

4 (Ge 38:29) Some of the sons of Judah and Benjamin lived in Jerusalem.

Those from Judah were:

Athaiah the son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah,

the son of Shephatiah, the son of Mahalalel-the descendants of Perez,

5 and Maaseiah the son of Baruch, the son of Kol-Hozeh, the son of Hazaiah,

the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah,

the son of Shelah.

6 All the descendants of Perez who lived in Jerusalem were 486 valiant men.

7 These are the sons of Benjamin:

Sallu the son of Meshullam, the son of Joed, the son of Pedaiah,

the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the son of Ithiel,

the son of Jeshaiah, 8and after him Gabbai and Sallai, totaling 928.

9 Joel, the son of Zikri, was their overseer, and Judah the son of Hassenuah

was second to him over the city.

10 Of the priests there were: Jedaiah the son of Joiarib and Jakin;

11 Seraiah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok,

the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, was a ruler of the house of God.

12 Their relatives performing the work of the house were 822 .

There was also Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah,

the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashhur,

the son of Malkijah,

13 plus his relatives who were chiefs of the fathers' houses were 242;

and Amashsai the son of Azarel, the son of Ahzai, the son of Meshillemoth,

the son of Immer,

14 and their brothers, mighty men of valor, were 128. Their overseer

was Zabdiel, the son of Haggedolim.

15 From the Levites there were:

Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah,

the son of Bunni;

16 plus Shabbethai and Jozabad, who as leaders of the Levites

had oversight of the outside work of the house of God.

17 (1Ch 9:15) Mattaniah the son of Mika, the son of Zabdi,

the son of Asaph, was the first to begin the thanksgiving at prayer,

Bakbukiah was the second out of his relatives, and then

Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.

18 (Ne 11:1; Rev 21:2) All the Levites in the holy city were 284.

19 Moreover, the gatekeepers,

Akkub, Talmon, and their relatives who kept watch at the gates, were 172.

20 The rest of Israel, the priests, and the Le­vites were in

all the cities of Judah, every one tending to his own inheritance.

21 (Ne 3:26) But the temple servants lived in Ophel,

and Ziha and Gishpa were over them.

22 (Ne 12:42; 11:9) The overseer of the Levites in Jerusalem was Uzzi

the son of Bani, the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah,

the son of Mika. Some of the sons of Asaph were the singers

attending to the work of the house of God,

23(Ezr 6:8-9) for the king's regulation about them made their unity

a daily issue.

24 (Ge 38:30; 1Ch 18:17) Pethahiah the son of Meshezabel, of the sons of Zerah

the son of Judah, was the king's assistant

[Lit. at the king's hand.] in all matters concerning the people.



The Residents Outside Jerusalem



25 (Jos 14:15) For the villages located by their fields,

some of the people of Judah lived at Kiriath Arba and its villages,

others at Dibon and its villages, or at Jekabzeel and its villages,

26 as well as at Jeshua, at Moladah, and at Beth Pelet,

27 and at Hazar Shual, and at Beersheba and its villages,

28 (1Sa 27:6) and at Ziklag, at Mekonah and its villages,

29 and at En Rimmon, at Zorah, at Jarmuth,

30 (Jos 10:3; 15:8) Zanoah, Adullam and their villages, at Lachish

and its fields, and at Azekah and its villages. So they lived

from Beersheba as far as the Valley of Hinnom.

31 Some of the Benjamites settled from Geba onward,

at Mikmash, Aija, and Bethel and their villages,

32 (Jos 21:18; 1Sa 21:1) at Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah,

33 (2Sa 4:3) Hazor, Ramah, Gittaim,

34 (1Sa 13:18) Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat,

35 (1Ch 8:12) Lod, and Ono, the valley of craftsmen.

36 From the Levites, some divisions in Judah belonged to Benjamin.



Nehemiah 11

[1] And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people

also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and

nine parts to dwell in other cities.

[2] And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to

dwell at Jerusalem.

[3] Now these are the chief of the province that dwelt in Jerusalem: but in

the cities of Judah dwelt every one in his possession in their cities, to

wit, Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the Nethinims, and the

children of Solomon's servants.

[4] And at Jerusalem dwelt certain of the children of Judah, and of the

children of Benjamin. Of the children of Judah; Athaiah the son of Uzziah,

the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of Shephatiah, the son of

Mahalaleel, of the children of Perez;

[5] And Maaseiah the son of Baruch, the son of Col-hozeh, the son of

Hazaiah, the son of Adaiah, the son of Joiarib, the son of Zechariah, the

son of Shiloni.

[6] All the sons of Perez that dwelt at Jerusalem were four hundred

threescore and eight valiant men.

[7] And these are the sons of Benjamin; Sallu the son of Meshullam, the son

of Joed, the son of Pedaiah, the son of Kolaiah, the son of Maaseiah, the

son of Ithiel, the son of Jesaiah.

[8] And after him Gabbai, Sallai, nine hundred twenty and eight.

[9] And Joel the son of Zichri was their overseer: and Judah the son of

Senuah was second over the city.

[10] Of the priests: Jedaiah the son of Joiarib, Jachin.

[11] Seraiah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the

son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, was the ruler of the house of God.

[12] And their brethren that did the work of the house were eight hundred

twenty and two: and Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah, the son

of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchiah,

[13] And his brethren, chief of the fathers, two hundred forty and two: and

Amashai the son of Azareel, the son of Ahasai, the son of Meshillemoth, the

son of Immer,

[14] And their brethren, mighty men of valour, an hundred twenty and eight:

and their overseer was Zabdiel, the son of one of the great men.

[15] Also of the Levites: Shemaiah the son of Hashub, the son of Azrikam,

the son of Hashabiah, the son of Bunni;

[16] And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chief of the Levites, had the

oversight of the outward business of the house of God.

[17] And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, was

the principal to begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second

among his brethren, and Abda the son of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son

of Jeduthun.

[18] All the Levites in the holy city were two hundred fourscore and four.

[19] Moreover the porters, Akkub, Talmon, and their brethren that kept the

gates, were an hundred seventy and two.

[20] And the residue of Israel, of the priests, and the Levites, were in all

the cities of Judah, every one in his inheritance.

[21] But the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel: and Ziha and Gispa were over the

Nethinims.

[22] The overseer also of the Levites at Jerusalem was Uzzi the son of Bani,

the son of Hashabiah, the son of Mattaniah, the son of Micha. Of the sons of

Asaph, the singers were over the business of the house of God.

[23] For it was the king's commandment concerning them, that a certain

portion should be for the singers, due for every day.

[24] And Pethahiah the son of Meshezabeel, of the children of Zerah the son

of Judah, was at the king's hand in all matters concerning the people.

[25] And for the villages, with their fields, some of the children of Judah

dwelt at Kirjath-arba, and in the villages thereof, and at Dibon, and in the

villages thereof, and at Jekabzeel, and in the villages thereof,

[26] And at Jeshua, and at Moladah, and at Beth-phelet,

[27] And at Hazar-shual, and at Beer-sheba, and in the villages thereof,

[28] And at Ziklag, and at Mekonah, and in the villages thereof,

[29] And at En-rimmon, and at Zareah, and at Jarmuth,

[30] Zanoah, Adullam, and in their villages, at Lachish, and the fields

thereof, at Azekah, and in the villages thereof. And they dwelt from

Beer-sheba unto the valley of Hinnom.

[31] The children also of Benjamin from Geba dwelt at Michmash, and Aija,

and Bethel, and in their villages,

[32] And at Anathoth, Nob, Ananiah,

[33] Hazor, Ramah, Gittaim,

[34] Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat,

[35] Lod, and Ono, the valley of craftsmen.

[36] And of the Levites were divisions in Judah, and in Benjamin.



Nehemiah 12



The Priests and Levites



1 (Ezr 2:1-2; Ne 10:2-8) Now these are the priests and the Le­vites

who came up with Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua:

Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra,

2 Amariah, Malluk, Hattush,

3 Shekaniah, Rehum, Meremoth,

4 (Lk 1:5) Iddo, Ginnethon, Abijah,

5 Mijamin, Moadiah, Bilgah,

6 Shemaiah, and Joiarib, Jedaiah,

7 Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, Jedaiah.

These were the leaders of the priests

and of their relatives in the days of Joshua.

8 (Ne 11:17; 12:24) Moreover the Levites were Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel,

Sherebiah, Judah, and Mattaniah, who was over the thanksgiving songs,

in conjunction with his relatives.

9 There were also their relatives Bakbukiah and Unni,

positioned across from each other in the watches.

10 Joshua was the father of Joiakim, Joiakim was the father of Eliashib,

Eliashib was the father of Joiada,

11 Joiada was the father of Jonathan, and Jonathan was the father of Jaddua.

12 Now in the days of Joiakim, the priests, these were the heads

of the fathers' houses:

of Seraiah, Meraiah;

of Jeremiah, Hananiah;

13 of Ezra, Meshullam;

of Amariah, Jehohanan;

14 of Malluk, Jonathan;

of Shebaniah, Joseph;

15 of Harim, Adna;

of Meraioth, Helkai;

16 of Iddo, Zechariah;

of Ginnethon, Meshullam;

17 of Abijah, Zikri;

of Miniamin and of Moadiah, Piltai;

18 of Bilgah, Shammua;

of Shemaiah, Jehonathan;

19 of Joiarib, Mattenai;

of Jedaiah, Uzzi;

20 of Sallu, Kallai;

of Amok, Eber;

21 of Hilkiah, Hashabiah;

and of Jedaiah, Nethanel.

22 The Levites, as well as the priests, were recorded as the chiefs

of the fathers' houses in the days of Eliashib, Joiada, Johanan,

and Jaddua during the reign of Darius the Persian.

23 The descendants of Levi who served as the chiefs of the fathers' house

were recorded in the book of the chronicles until the days of Johanan

the son of Eliashib.

24 (1Ch 25:1-26) The leaders of the Levites were Hashabiah, Sherebiah,

and Jeshua the son of Kadmiel, with their brothers across from them,

to praise and to give thanks, section opposite section,

according to the commandment of David the man of God.

25 Mattaniah, Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon,

and Akkub were gatekeepers maintaining the guard duty at the storehouse

of the gates.

26 (Ne 8:9) These leaders served during the days of Joiakim the son of Joshua,

the son of Jozadak, during the days of Nehemiah the governor,

and during the days of Ezra the priest, the scribe.



Nehemiah 12

[1] Now these are the priests and the Levites that went up with Zerubbabel

the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua: Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra,

[2] Amariah, Malluch, Hattush,

[3] Shechaniah, Rehum, Meremoth,

[4] Iddo, Ginnetho, Abijah,

[5] Miamin, Maadiah, Bilgah,

[6] Shemaiah, and Joiarib, Jediah,

[7] Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, Jedaiah. These were the chief of the priests and

of their brethren in the days of Jeshua.

[8] Moreover the Levites: Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, and

Mattaniah, which was over the thanksgiving, he and his brethren.

[9] Also Bakbukiah and Unni, their brethren, were over against them in the

watches.

[10] And Jeshua begat Joiakim, Joiakim also begat Eliashib, and Eliashib

begat Joiada,

[11] And Joiada begat Jonathan, and Jonathan begat Jaddua.

[12] And in the days of Joiakim were priests, the chief of the fathers: of

Seraiah, Meraiah; of Jeremiah, Hananiah;

[13] Of Ezra, Meshullam; of Amariah, Jehohanan;

[14] Of Melicu, Jonathan; of Shebaniah, Joseph;

[15] Of Harim, Adna; of Meraioth, Helkai;

[16] Of Iddo, Zechariah; of Ginnethon, Meshullam;

[17] Of Abijah, Zichri; of Miniamin, of Moadiah, Piltai;

[18] Of Bilgah, Shammua; of Shemaiah, Jehonathan;

[19] And of Joiarib, Mattenai; of Jedaiah, Uzzi;

[20] Of Sallai, Kallai; of Amok, Eber;

[21] Of Hilkiah, Hashabiah; of Jedaiah, Nethaneel.

[22] The Levites in the days of Eliashib, Joiada, and Johanan, and Jaddua,

were recorded chief of the fathers: also the priests, to the reign of Darius

the Persian.

[23] The sons of Levi, the chief of the fathers, were written in the book of

the chronicles, even until the days of Johanan the son of Eliashib.

[24] And the chief of the Levites: Hashabiah, Sherebiah, and Jeshua the son

of Kadmiel, with their brethren over against them, to praise and to give

thanks, according to the commandment of David the man of God, ward over

against ward.

[25] Mattaniah, and Bakbukiah, Obadiah, Meshullam, Talmon, Akkub, were

porters keeping the ward at the thresholds of the gates.

[26] These were in the days of Joiakim the son of Jeshua, the son of

Jozadak, and in the days of Nehemiah the governor, and of Ezra the priest,

the scribe.



1 Chronicles 9:1-34



1 CHRONICLES 9



1 So all Israel was registered by genealogies, and these were written

in the book of the kings of Israel. And Judah was led into exile

to Babylon for their unfaithfulness.

2 (Ne 7:73; Ezr 2:43; 2:58) Now the first ones to dwell in their possessions

in their cities were children of Israel, priests, Levites, and temple servants.



A Post-Exilic Genealogy



Ne 11:3-19



3 (Ne 11:1) Some of the sons of Judah dwelt in Jerusalem alongside

some of the sons of Benjamin, Ephraim, and Manasseh:

4 (Ge 46:12; Nu 26:20) Uthai the son of Ammihud, the son of Omri,

the son of Imri, the son of Bani, of the sons of Perez the son of Judah;

5 of the Shilonites: Asaiah the firstborn and his sons;

6of the sons of Zerah: Jeuel and their brothers, six hundred and ninety.

7 Those of the sons of Benjamin were

Sallu the son of Meshullam, the son of Hodaviah, the son of Hassenuah;

8 Ibneiah the son of Jeroham; Elah the son of Uzzi, the son of Mikri;

Meshullam the son of Shephatiah, the son of Reuel, the son of Ibnijah;

9 and their brothers according to their generations, 956.

All these men were heads of families according to their fathers' houses.

10 Those of the priests were Jedaiah, Jehoiarib, Jakin;

11 (Ne 11:11) Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam,

the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub,

the head official of the house of God;

12 Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashhur, the son of Malkijah;

Maasai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam,

the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer;

13 and their brothers, heads of the houses of their fathers, 1760

very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.

14 Those of the Levites were Shemaiah the son of Hasshub,

the son of Azrikam, the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari;

15 (Ne 11:22) Bakbakkar, Heresh, Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Mika,

the son of Zikri, the son of Asaph;

16 Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun;

Berekiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah,

who lived in the villages of the Netophathites.

17 Now the gatekeepers were Shallum, Akkub, Talmon, Ahiman,

and their brothers (Shallum was the head officer

18 (Eze 46:1-2) who until then had served at the king's eastern gate).

They were the gatekeepers for the camps of the Levites.

19 Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah,

and his brothers from his father's house, the Korahites,

were over the work of the service, gatekeepers of the tabernacle.

Their fathers had been over the camp of the Lord, guards at the entrance.

20 Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the official over them in previous times,

and the Lord was with him.

21 (1Ch 26:14; 26:2) Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was gatekeeper

at the entrance to the tent of meeting.

22 (1Sa 9:9) All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve.

They were registered by their genealogy in their villages. Now David

and Samuel the seer established them in their trusted offices.

23 So they and their sons were in charge of the gates of the house

of the Lord, that is, the house of the tabernacle, as guards.

24 The gatekeepers were on four sides: east, west, north, and south.

25 (2Ki 11:5; 2Ch 23:8) Their brothers in their villages were to come

for seven days from time to time to serve with them.

26 For in their trusted offices the four main gatekeepers who were

Levites had charge over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God.

27 They spent the night around the house of God, for the watch

was entrusted to them, and they were responsible for opening it every morning.

28 Some of them were in charge of the vessels of service, that they should

bring them in and out by number.

29 (1Ch 23:29) Some others were appointed over the furnishings

and all the implements of the sanctuary as well as the fine flour, the wine,

the oil, the frankincense, and the spices.

30 (Ex 30:23-25) And some of the sons of the priests mixed the ointment

of the spices.

31 (1Ch 9:19; 9:22) Mattithiah, one of the Levites (he was the firstborn of

Shallum the Korahite), was entrusted with making the flat cakes.

32 (Lev 24:5-8) Others of the sons of the Kohathites and from their brothers

were given charge over the showbread to prepare it every Sabbath.

33 (1Ch 6:31-33; 25:1-31) Now these are the singers, heads of the fathers'

houses of the Levites, who stayed in the temple chambers, free from

other service, because they were occupied with the work day and night.

34 These were the heads of the fathers' houses of the Levites according

to their generations, leaders, who dwelt in Jerusalem.



1 Chronicles 9

[1] So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they were

written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, who were carried away

to Babylon for their transgression.

[2] Now the first inhabitants that dwelt in their possessions in their

cities were, the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims.

[3] And in Jerusalem dwelt of the children of Judah, and of the children of

Benjamin, and of the children of Ephraim, and Manasseh;

[4] Uthai the son of Ammihud, the son of Omri, the son of Imri, the son of

Bani, of the children of Pharez the son of Judah.

[5] And of the Shilonites; Asaiah the firstborn, and his sons.

[6] And of the sons of Zerah; Jeuel, and their brethren, six hundred and

ninety.

[7] And of the sons of Benjamin; Sallu the son of Meshullam, the son of

Hodaviah, the son of Hasenuah,

[8] And Ibneiah the son of Jeroham, and Elah the son of Uzzi, the son of

Michri, and Meshullam the son of Shephathiah, the son of Reuel, the son of

Ibnijah;

[9] And their brethren, according to their generations, nine hundred and

fifty and six. All these men were chief of the fathers in the house of their

fathers.

[10] And of the priests; Jedaiah, and Jehoiarib, and Jachin,

[11] And Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok,

the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the ruler of the house of God;

[12] And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of

Malchijah,

and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam,

the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer;

[13] And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and

seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of

the house of God.

[14] And of the Levites; Shemaiah the son of Hasshub, the son of Azrikam,

the son of Hashabiah, of the sons of Merari;

[15] And Bakbakkar, Heresh, and Galal, and Mattaniah the son of Micah, the

son of Zichri, the son of Asaph;

[16] And Obadiah the son of Shemaiah, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun,

and Berechiah the son of Asa, the son of Elkanah, that dwelt in the villages

of the Netophathites.

[17] And the porters were, Shallum, and Akkub, and Talmon, and Ahiman, and

their brethren: Shallum was the chief;

[18] Who hitherto waited in the king's gate eastward: they were porters in

the companies of the children of Levi.

[19] And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and

his brethren, of the house of his father, the Korahites, were over the work

of the service, keepers of the gates of the tabernacle: and their fathers,

being over the host of the LORD, were keepers of the entry.

[20] And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past,

and the Lord was with him.

[21] And Zechariah the son of Meshelemiah was porter of the door of the

tabernacle of the congregation.

[22] All these which were chosen to be porters in the gates were two hundred

and twelve. These were reckoned by their genealogy in their villages, whom

David and Samuel the seer did ordain in their set office.

[23] So they and their children had the oversight of the gates of the house

of the Lord, namely, the house of the tabernacle, by wards.

[24] In four quarters were the porters, toward the east, west, north, and

south.

[25] And their brethren, which were in their villages, were to come after

seven days from time to time with them.

[26] For these Levites, the four chief porters, were in their set office,

and were over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God.

[27] And they lodged round about the house of God, because the charge was

upon them, and the opening thereof every morning pertained to them.

[28] And certain of them had the charge of the ministering vessels, that

they should bring them in and out by tale.

[29] Some of them also were appointed to oversee the vessels, and all the

instruments of the sanctuary, and the fine flour, and the wine, and the oil,

and the frankincense, and the spices.

[30] And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices.

[31] And Mattithiah, one of the Levites, who was the firstborn of Shallum

the Korahite, had the set office over the things that were made in the

pans.

[32] And other of their brethren, of the sons of the Kohathites, were over

the shewbread, to prepare it every sabbath.

[33] And these are the singers, chief of the fathers of the Levites, who

remaining in the chambers were free: for they were employed in that work

day and night.

[34] These chief fathers of the Levites were chief throughout their

generations; these dwelt at Jerusalem.



2) Our Daily Bread for 19 September 2022



Entitled "Imaginative Faith"




Isaiah 55:6-13



6 (Ps 32:6; Isa 45:19 ) Seek the Lord while He may be found,

call you upon Him while He is near.

7 (Isa 44:22; Pr 28:13) Let the wicked forsake his way,

and the unrighteous man his thoughts;

and let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him,

and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.

8 For My thoughts are not your thoughts,

nor are your ways My ways,

says the Lord.

9 (Ps 103:11) For as the heavens are higher than the earth,

so are My ways higher than your ways,

and My thoughts than your thoughts.

10 (Isa 30:23) For as the rain comes down,

and the snow from heaven,

and do not return there

but water the earth

and make it bring forth and bud

that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater,

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.

12 (Isa 44:23; Ps 105:43) For you shall go out with joy,

and be led out with peace;

the mountains and the hills

shall break forth into singing before you,

and all the trees of the field

shall clap their hands.

13 (Isa 41:19; 60:13) Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree,

and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree;

and it shall be to the Lord for a memorial,

for an everlasting sign

that shall not be cut off.



[6] Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

[7] Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts:

and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to

our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

[8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,

saith the LORD.

[9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than

your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.

[10] For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth

not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that

it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:

[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.

[12] For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the

mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all

the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

[13] Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the

brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name,

for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.



"Look, Papa! Those trees are waving at God!" As we watched young birches

bending in the wind before an oncoming storm, my grandson's excited

observation made me smile. It also made me ask myself, Do I have that

kind of imaginative faith?



Reflecting on the story of Moses and the burning bush, the poet Elizabeth

Barrett Browning wrote that "Earth's crammed with heaven, / And every common

bush afire with God; / But only he who sees, takes off his shoes." God's

handiwork is evident all around us in the wonders of what He has made, and one day, when the earth is made new, we’ll see it like never before.



God tells us about this day when He proclaims through the prophet Isaiah,

"For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the

mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all

the trees of the field shall clap their hands." (Isaiah 55:12). Singing

mountains? Clapping trees? Why not? Paul noted that "the creation itself will

be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory

of the children of God" (Romans 8:21).



Jesus once spoke of stones crying out (Luke 19:40), and His words echo

Isaiah's prophecy about what lies ahead for those who come to Him for

salvation. When we look to Him with faith that imagines what only God can do,

we'll see His wonders continue forever!



By: James Banks



Reflect & Pray



What do you imagine the new earth will be like in God's forever kingdom?

How will you serve Him with imagination today?



Loving God, I praise You that no one is more

creative than You are! I look forward to seeing the wonder

of all that You are and all that You can do!





For further study, read All Creation Sings.




3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 2 The Wardrobe of Joy Isaiah 61:10



10 I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God;

for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation,

He has covered me with the robe of righteousness,

as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments,

and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.



10 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God;

for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me

with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself

with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels.



On her wedding day, the bride dresses carefully for the ceremony

that is about to take place. Never before has she spent so much

time in preparation for one relatively brief event. When she

looks in the mirror and rejoices in her happiness, she responds not

out of vanity, but for sheer joy as she anticipates the coming ceremony.

God wants his people, lie that bride to be joyful, to rejoice in the Lord,

the Bridegroom. And he gives, through his grace,

the garments of joy to his beloved ones.

He clothes us, Isaiah says, with salvation, and covers us with

the robe of righteousness. The wardrobe that God provides is not merely

a utility garment, a coverall that hides our sin from his eyes.

It is his own righteousness in Christ, given to us as a free gift, so that

we might be united with him. And God himself, Isaiah says,

is filled with joy, adorning himself like a bridegroom.

When we truly see God's immeasurable gift in accepting us as him own,

we also will "greatly rejoice" in the Lord. He, the eternal god,

Creator of the universe, desires to be united with us, as a husband

desires his wife! God does not simply accept us grudgingly,

reminding us of our unworthiness to be with him. Rather, he celebrates

with unrestrained joy his oneness in Spirit with those he calls his own.

And we, having been fully forgiven

and set free from sin, can rejoice unashamedly as well.



Application



a) Have I ever felt ashamed to draw close to God? Why?



b) What does this verse tell me about God's attitude towards me?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



2 Chr 26:5



5 (2 Ch 24:2; Da 1:17) And he sought after God in the days of Zechariah,

the one who instructed him in the fear of the Lord. And in the days

that he sought after the Lord, God caused him to succeed.



5 And he sought God in the days of Zechariah,

who had understanding in the visions of God: and as long

as he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Gift of Salvation



Ps 40:1-3,9-11



PSALMS 40



1 I waited patiently for the Lord,

and He turned to me, and heard my cry.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,

out of the miry clay,

and set my feet on a rock,

and established my steps.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He has put a new song in my mouth,

even praise to our God;

many will see it, and fear,

and will trust in the Lord.



...



9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) I have proclaimed righteousness

in the great congregation;

I have not held back my lips,

O Lord, You know.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) I have not hidden Your righteousness

within my heart;

I have declared Your faithfulness and Your salvation;

I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth

from the great congregation.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Do not withhold Your compassion from me, O Lord;

may Your lovingkindness and Your truth always guard me.



To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.

1 I waited patiently for the LORD;

And he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.

2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay,

And set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even

praise unto our God:

Many shall see it, and fear,

And shall trust in the LORD.

...

9 I have preached righteousness in the great congregation:

Lo, I have not refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

10 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart;

I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation:

I have not concealed thy lovingkindness,

And thy truth from the great congregation.

11 Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD:

Let thy lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



19th Day of the Month



a) Pray the the Holy Spirit will influence our governmental leaders

as they make vital decisions that shape Canadian Society



(



1 Tim 2:1-2



)



b) Pray for the province of Prince Edward Island



I) Pray for the leaders of Prince Edward Island,

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.



1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,

intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2 for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet

and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

4 who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto 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



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray for guidance on how the Lord wants you to use

your stuff.



Pray to the Lord: "Loving God, I praise You that no one is more

creative than You are! I look forward to seeing the wonder

of all that You are and all that You can do!"



Pray to the Lord and pray to draw close to Him.



Pray to the Lord and pray to seek Him fully.



Pray to the Lord and pray to proclaim His righteousness.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- 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 the the Holy Spirit will influence our governmental leaders

as they make vital decisions that shape Canadian Society



Pray for Hadijatou in Mali, who was persecuted by her family

for choosing to follow Christ .



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.

Day 261 of my second Bible Study Journey - 18 Sept reflections

Day 261, 18 September 2022



At Calvarycommunity.ca , Lead Pastor Barry spoke about Why so much JOY in

Philippians.



Acts 16:14-25



14 (Lk 24:45; Ac 18:7) A woman named Lydia, a seller of purple fabric

of the city of Thyatira, who worshipped God, heard us.

The Lord opened her heart to acknowledge what Paul said.

15 (Ac 11:14; Heb 13:2) When she and her household were baptized,

she entreated us, saying, "If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord,

come to my house and remain there." And she persuaded us.



The Imprisonment in Philippi



16 (1Sa 28:7; 1Ch 10:13) On one occasion, as we went to the place of prayer,

a servant girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us,

who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling.

17 (Mk 5:7; Da 3:26) She followed Paul and us, shouting,

"These men are servants of the Most High God,

who proclaim to us the way of salvation."

18 (Mk 16:17; 1:34) She did this for many days. But becoming greatly

troubled, Paul turned to the spirit and said,

"I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her."

And it came out at that moment.

19 (Ac 21:30; 8:3) When her masters saw that the hope of their profits

was gone, they seized Paul and Silas, and dragged them into the marketplace

to the rulers.

20 (Ac 28:22) And they brought them to the magistrates, saying,

"These men, being Jews, greatly trouble our city

21 (Est 3:8; Ac 16:12) and teach customs which are not lawful for us,

being Romans, to receive or observe."

22 (1Th 2:2; 2Co 6:5) The crowd rose up together against them.

And the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them.

23 After they had laid many stripes on them, they threw them into prison,

commanding the jailer to guard them securely.

24 (Job 13:27; 33:11) Having received such an order, he threw them into

the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.

25 (Job 35:10; Ps 42:8) At midnight Paul and Silas were praying

and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them.



[14] And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of

Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that

she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

[15] And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying,

If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and

abide there. And she constrained us.

[16] And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed

with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by

soothsaying:

[17] The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the

servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.

[18] And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to

the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.

And he came out the same hour.

[19] And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they

caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace unto the rulers,

[20] And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do

exceedingly trouble our city,

[21] And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to

observe, being Romans.

[22] And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates

rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.

[23] And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into

prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:

[24] Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison,

and made their feet fast in the stocks.

[25] And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and

the prisoners heard them.



Matthew 5:11-12



11 “Blessed are you when men revile you, and persecute you,

and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 

12 Rejoice and be very glad, because great is your reward in heaven,

for in this manner they persecuted the prophets who were before you.



11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you,

and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 

12Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in

heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.



Acts 16:26-34



26 (Ac 4:31; 12:7) Suddenly there was a great earthquake,

so that the foundations of the prison were shaken.

And immediately all the doors were opened

and everyone's shackles were loosened.

27 (Ac 12:19) When the jailer awoke and saw the prison doors open,

he drew his sword and would have killed himself,

supposing that the prisoners had escaped.

28 But Paul shouted, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here."

29 He called for lights and rushed in, trembling,

and fell down before Paul and Silas.

30 (Ac 2:37; 22:10) He then led them out and asked,

"Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"

31 (Mk 16:16; Jn 1:12) They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ,

and you and your household will be saved."

32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him

and to all who were in his household.

33 (Ac 16:15; 16:25) In that hour of the night he took them

and washed their wounds. And immediately he and his entire household

were baptized.

34 (Ac 2:46) Then he brought them up to his house and set food before them.

And he rejoiced with his entire household believing in God.



[26] And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of

the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every

one's bands were loosed.

[27] And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the

prison doors open, he drew out his sword, and would have killed himself,

supposing that the prisoners had been fled.

[28] But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we

are all here.

[29] Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and fell

down before Paul and Silas,

[30] And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

[31] And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be

saved, and thy house.

[32] And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in

his house.

[33] And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their stripes;

and was baptized, he and all his, straightway.

[34] And when he had brought them into his house, he set meat before them,

and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.



Philippians 1:1-3



1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ,

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the overseers and deacons:

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul’s Prayer for the Philippians

3 I thank my God for every reminder of you.



1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: 

2 grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father,

and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Heart of the Apostle

3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,







1) Nehemiah 8:13 - 10



Nehemiah 8:13-18



The Feast of Tabernacles



13 On the second day, the chiefs of the fathers' households

of all the people, the priests, and the Levites were gathered to Ezra

the scribe in order to understand the words of the Law.

14 (Lev 23:34) They found written in the Law where the Lord had commanded

by Moses that the children of Israel should dwell in booths in the feast

of the seventh month,

15 (Lev 23:4; 23:40) and that they should publish and proclaim

in all their cities and in Jerusalem, "Go out to the hills

and bring olive branches, along with wild olive branches, myrtle branches,

palm branches, and other leafy branches to make booths, as it was written."

16 (2Ki 14:13; Ne 12:39) So the people went out and brought back branches

and made themselves booths. Each household did so on its roof, in their yard,

on the grounds of the house of God, in the area in front of the Water Gate,

or in the area at the Gate of Ephraim.

17 (2Ch 8:13; 7:8-10) All the congregation who had returned from captivity

made booths and lived in them. Not since the days of Joshua the son of Nun

to that day had the children of Israel done so, and there was a tremendously

great feast.

18 (Lev 23:36; Nu 29:35) And day by day, from the first day to the last day,

he read from the Book of the Law of God. They celebrated the feast seven

days, and on the eighth day there was a solemn assembly as required.



[13] And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers

of all the people, the priests, and the Levites, unto Ezra the scribe, even

to understand the words of the law.

[14] And they found written in the law which the LORD had commanded by

Moses, that the children of Israel should dwell in booths in the feast of

the seventh month:

[15] And that they should publish and proclaim in all their cities, and in

Jerusalem, saying, Go forth unto the mount, and fetch olive branches, and

pine branches, and myrtle branches, and palm branches, and branches of thick

trees, to make booths, as it is written.

[16] So the people went forth, and brought them, and made themselves booths,

every one upon the roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts

of the house of God, and in the street of the water gate, and in the street

of the gate of Ephraim.

[17] And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the

captivity made booths, and sat under the booths: for since the days of

Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children of Israel done so.

And there was very great gladness.

[18] Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the

book of the law of God. And they kept the feast seven days; and on the

eighth day was a solemn assembly, according unto the manner.



Nehemiah 9



The Israelites Confess Their Sins



1 (Jos 7:6; 1Sa 4:12) Now on the twenty-fourth day of this month the children

of Israel were assembled with fasting and sackcloth,

and there was dirt on them.

2 (Ezr 10:11; Ne 13:3) The offspring of Israel separated themselves

from all the foreigners and then stood and confessed their sins

and the iniquities of their fathers.

3 (Ne 8:7-8) They stood in their place and read from the Book of the Law

of the Lord their God for a fourth of the day. And for another fourth,

they confessed and worshipped the Lord their God.

4 (Ne 8:7) Jeshua, Bani, Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani,

and Kenani stood up on the stairs of the Levites

and cried with a loud voice to the Lord their God.

5 (1Ch 29:13) Then the Levites, Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah,

Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said:

"Stand up and bless the Lord your God forever and ever! Let them

bless Your glorious name, which is exalted above all blessing and praise.

6 (Ge 1:1; 2:1; 2Ki 19:15) You alone are the Lord. You have made heaven,

the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it,

the seas and all that is in them; and You preserve them all.

And the host of heaven worships You.

7 (Ge 11:31; 17:5) "You are the Lord God who chose Abram and brought him out

of Ur of the Chaldeans. You gave him the name Abraham

8 (Ge 15:6; 15:18-21)and found his heart faithful before You. And You made

a covenant with him to give him the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites,

the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites, and the Girgashites-to give it

to his seed. Indeed, You have fulfilled Your words because You are righteous.

9 "When You saw the affliction of our fathers in Egypt and heard their cry

by the Red Sea,

10 (Jer 32:20; Da 9:15) You enacted signs and wonders against Pharaoh,

against all his servants, and against all the people of his land because

You knew how arrogantly they had acted against them. Thus, You made a name

for Yourself, as it is this day.

11 (Ps 78:13; Ex 14:21-22) You divided the sea before them, so they might

pass through the midst of the sea on dry ground, and cast their pursuers

into the deep like a stone into stormy waters.

12 (Ex 13:21-22; Ne 9:19) By day You led them with a pillar of cloud,

and by night with a pillar of fire to light the way for them to go.

13 (Ex 20:1; 19:11) "You came down on Mount Sinai and spoke with them

from heaven and gave them just requirements, true laws, good statutes

and commandments.

14 (Ge 2:3; Ex 20:8-11) You also revealed to them Your Holy Sabbath and,

by the hand of Moses Your servant, set in place for them the precepts,

statutes, and laws.

15 (Ex 17:6; Dt 1:8) You gave them bread from heaven for their hunger

and brought water out of the rock for them for their thirst. You told

them to enter in order to possess the land which You had sworn to give them.

16 (Dt 31:27; Ne 9:10) "But they and our fathers acted proudly and hardened

their necks and did not obey Your commandments.

17 (Ps 78:11; 86:5) They refused to obey and were not mindful of Your wonders

that You performed among them. But they hardened their necks and in their

rebellion appointed a leader to return to their bondage. But You are a God

ready to pardon, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding

in kindness, and did not forsake them.

18 (Ex 32:4-8) "Even when they had made themselves a molded calf and said,

'This is your god that brought you out of Egypt,'

and committed terrible provocations,

19 (Ne 9:12; 9:27) yet You in Your great mercy did not forsake them

in the wilderness: The pillar of the cloud did not depart from them by day,

to lead them in the way, nor the pillar of fire by night, to light for them

the way they should go.

20 (Nu 11:17; Ex 16:15) You gave Your good Spirit to instruct them,

did not withhold Your manna from their mouth, and gave them water

for their thirst.

21 (Dt 2:7; 8:4) Forty years You sustained them in the wilderness,

so that they lacked nothing-their clothing did not wear out

nor did their feet swell.

22 (Nu 21:21-35) "You gave them kingdoms and nations,

and You divided them as boundaries. They possessed the land of Sihon,

which was the land of the king of Heshbon, and the land of Og,

the king of Bashan.

23 (Ge 15:5; 22:17) Their descendants You increased like the stars

of heaven, and You brought them into the land, which You had promised

to their fathers that they would enter and possess it.

24 (Jos 11:23; 18:1) So the descendants went in and possessed the land,

and You subdued for them the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites,

and gave them into their hands-with their kings and the peoples of the land

-to do with them as they would.

25 (Dt 32:15; 3:5) They captured unassailable cities and a fertile land.

They possessed houses full of all goods, wells dug, vineyards, olive groves,

and fruit trees in abundance, so they ate, were filled, and became fat,

and they indulged themselves in Your great goodness.

26 (1Ki 14:9; Jdg 2:11-12) "Nevertheless they became disobedient,

and rebelled against You, and cast Your law behind their backs,

and killed Your prophets who had warned them to turn back to You.

But they committed terrible provocations.

27 Therefore You delivered them into the hand of their enemies,

who afflicted them. When they cried to You in the time of their affliction,

You heard from heaven, and, according to Your abundant mercy, You gave them

deliverers who delivered them out of the hand of their enemies.

28 (Jdg 3:11-12; 3:30) "But after they had rest, they again did evil before

You. Therefore You abandoned them to the hand of their enemies, so that

they had dominion over them. Yet when they turned and cried to You,

You heard from heaven, and many times You delivered them according

to Your mercies.

29 (Ne 9:16; Lev 18:5) "You warned them in order to restore them again

to Your law, but they acted arrogantly and did not listen

to Your commandments. They sinned against Your ordinances

(which would enable a man to live, if he would do them),

stubbornly turning away and becoming belligerent so that

they would not hear.

30 (Ne 9:20; Isa 42:24) For many years You endured them

and warned them by Your Spirit in Your prophets, yet they would not listen.

Therefore, You gave them into the hand of the people of the lands.

31 (Jer 4:27; Ne 9:17) Nevertheless, for the sake of Your abundant mercy,

You did not completely destroy them or forsake them.

Indeed, You are a gracious and merciful God.

32 (2Ki 17:3; Ne 1:5) "Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty,

and the awesome God, who keeps covenant and mercy, let not all the hardship,

since the time of the kings of Assyria until this day, that has come on us,

our kings, our princes, our priests, our prophets, our fathers,

and on all Your people seem insignificant to You.

33 (Ge 18:25; Ps 106:6) You are righteous for everything that has come

upon us! You have acted faithfully while we have done wickedly.

34 For our kings, princes, priests, and fathers have failed to keep Your law

and did not obey Your commandments

and Your warnings even when You confronted

them.

35 (Dt 28:47) For whether in their kingdom or in Your abundant goodness

(that You gave them) or in the spacious and fertile land

(that You set before them), they have neither served You nor turned away

from their wicked deeds.

36 (Dt 28:48; Ezr 9:9) "Here we are, slaves today. The land that You gave

to our fathers was for eating its fruit and its goodness.

Behold, we have become slaves on account of it,

37 (Dt 28:33; 28:51) because its abundant produce belongs to the kings

whom You have set over us due to our sins. They have control over our bodies

and over our livestock, as they please. We are in great distress."



Signatories to the Agreement



38 (Ne 10:1; 10:29) So on the basis of all this, we are executing

a written agreement that is being sealed by our princes, Levites,

and priests.



[1] Now in the twenty and fourth day of this month the children of Israel

were assembled with fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them.

[2] And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and

stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers.

[3] And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the

LORD their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they

confessed, and worshipped the LORD their God.

[4] Then stood up upon the stairs, of the Levites, Jeshua, and Bani,

Kadmiel, Shebaniah, Bunni, Sherebiah, Bani, and Chenani, and cried with a

loud voice unto the LORD their God.

[5] Then the Levites, Jeshua, and Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabniah, Sherebiah,

Hodijah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah, said, Stand up and bless the LORD your

God for ever and ever: and blessed be thy glorious name, which is exalted

above all blessing and praise.

[6] Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of

heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein,

the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the

host of heaven worshippeth thee.

[7] Thou art the LORD the God, who didst choose Abram, and broughtest him

forth out of Ur of the Chaldees, and gavest him the name of Abraham;

[8] And foundest his heart faithful before thee, and madest a covenant with

him to give the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, and the

Perizzites, and the Jebusites, and the Girgashites, to give it, I say, to

his seed, and hast performed thy words; for thou art righteous:

[9] And didst see the affliction of our fathers in Egypt, and heardest their

cry by the Red sea;

[10] And shewedst signs and wonders upon Pharoah, and on all his servants,

and on all the people of his land: for thou knewest that they dealt proudly

against them. So didst thou get thee a name, as it is this day.

[11] And thou didst divide the sea before them, so that they went through

the midst of the sea on the dry land; and their persecutors thou threwest

into the deeps, as a stone into the mighty waters.

[12] Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the

night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should

go.

[13] Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest with them from

heaven, and gavest them right judgments, and true laws, good statutes and

commandments:

[14] And madest known unto them thy holy sabbath, and commandedst them

precepts, statutes, and laws, by the hand of Moses thy servant:

[15] And gavest them bread from heaven for their hunger, and broughtest

forth water for them out of the rock for their thirst, and promisedst them

that they should go in to possess the land which thou hadst sworn to give

them.

[16] But they and our fathers dealt proudly, and hardened their necks, and

hearkened not to thy commandments,

[17] And refused to obey, neither were mindful of thy wonders that thou

didst among them; but hardened their necks, and in their rebellion appointed

a captain to return to their bondage: but thou art a God ready to pardon,

gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and forsookest

them not.

[18] Yea, when they had made them a molten calf, and said, This is thy God

that brought thee up out of Egypt, and had wrought great provocations;

[19] Yet thou in thy manifold mercies forsookest them not in the wilderness:

the pillar of the cloud departed not from them by day, to lead them in the

way; neither the pillar of fire by night, to shew them light, and the way

wherein they should go.

[20] Thou gavest also thy good spirit to instruct them, and withheldest not

thy manna from their mouth, and gavest them water for their thirst.

[21] Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, so that

they lacked nothing; their clothes waxed not old, and their feet swelled not.

[22] Moreover thou gavest them kingdoms and nations, and didst divide them

into corners: so they possessed the land of Sihon, and the land of the king

of Heshbon, and the land of Og king of Bashan.

[23] Their children also multipliedst thou as the stars of heaven, and

broughtest them into the land, concerning which thou hadst promised to their

fathers, that they should go in to possess it.

[24] So the children went in and possessed the land, and thou subduedst

before them the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, and gavest them

into their hands, with their kings, and the people of the land, that they

might do with them as they would.

[25] And they took strong cities, and a fat land, and possessed houses full

of all goods, wells digged, vineyards, and oliveyards, and fruit trees in

abundance: so they did eat, and were filled, and became fat, and delighted

themselves in thy great goodness.

[26] Nevertheless they were disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast

thy law behind their backs, and slew thy prophets which testified against

them to turn them to thee, and they wrought great provocations.

[27] Therefore thou deliveredst them into the hand of their enemies, who

vexed them: and in the time of their trouble, when they cried unto thee,

thou heardest them from heaven; and according to thy manifold mercies thou

gavest them saviours, who saved them out of the hand of their enemies.

[28] But after they had rest, they did evil again before thee: therefore

leftest thou them in the hand of their enemies, so that they had the

dominion over them: yet when they returned, and cried unto thee, thou

heardest them from heaven; and many times didst thou deliver them according

to thy mercies;

[29] And testifiedst against them, that thou mightest bring them again unto

thy law: yet they dealt proudly, and hearkened not unto thy commandments,

but sinned against thy judgments, (which if a man do, he shall live in

them;) and withdrew the shoulder, and hardened their neck, and would not

hear.

[30] Yet many years didst thou forbear them, and testifiedst against them by

thy spirit in thy prophets: yet would they not give ear: therefore gavest

thou them into the hand of the people of the lands.

[31] Nevertheless for thy great mercies' sake thou didst not utterly consume

them, nor forsake them; for thou art a gracious and merciful God.

[32] Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God,

who keepest covenant and mercy, let not all the trouble seem little before

thee, that hath come upon us, on our kings, on our princes, and on our

priests, and on our prophets, and on our fathers, and on all thy people,

since the time of the kings of Assyria unto this day.

[33] Howbeit thou art just in all that is brought upon us; for thou hast

done right, but we have done wickedly:

[34] Neither have our kings, our princes, our priests, nor our fathers, kept

thy law, nor hearkened unto thy commandments and thy testimonies, wherewith

thou didst testify against them.

[35] For they have not served thee in their kingdom, and in thy great

goodness that thou gavest them, and in the large and fat land which thou

gavest before them, neither turned they from their wicked works.

[36] Behold, we are servants this day, and for the land that thou gavest

unto our fathers to eat the fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we

are servants in it:

[37] And it yieldeth much increase unto the kings whom thou hast set over us

because of our sins: also they have dominion over our bodies, and over our

cattle, at their pleasure, and we are in great distress.

[38] And because of all this we make a sure covenant, and write it; and our

princes, Levites, and priests, seal unto it.



Nehemiah 10



Signatories of the Covenant



1 (Ne 9:38; 1:1) Now the names of those on the sealed agreement were:

Nehemiah, the magistrate, the son of Hakaliah,

and Zedekiah.

2 Next were Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah,

3 Pashhur, Amariah, Malkijah,

4 Hattush, Shebaniah, Malluk,

5 Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah,

6 Daniel, Ginnethon, Baruch,

7 Meshullam, Abijah, Mijamin,

8 Maaziah, Bilgai, and Shemaiah.

These were the priests.

9 The Levites were:

Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons of Henadad, and Kadmiel,

10 along with their relatives Shebaniah,

Hodiah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanan,

11 Mika, Rehob, Hashabiah,

12 Zakkur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah,

13 Hodiah, Bani, and Beninu.

14 (Ne 7:8; 7:11-13) The leaders of the people were:

Parosh, Pahath-Moab, Elam, Zattu, Bani,

15 Bunni, Azgad, Bebai,

16 Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin,

17 Ater, Hezekiah, Azzur,

18 Hodiah, Hashum, Bezai,

19 Hariph, Anathoth, Nebai,

20 Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

21 Meshezabel, Zadok, Jaddua,

22 Pelatiah, Hanan, Anaiah,

23 Hoshea, Hananiah, Hasshub,

24 Hallohesh, Pilha, Shobek,

25 Rehum, Hashabnah, Maaseiah,

26 Ahiah, Hanan, Anan,

27 Malluk, Harim, and Baanah.



Summary of the Covenant



28 (Ne 9:2) The remainder of the people, the priests, the Levites,

the gatekeepers, the singers, the temple servants, and all those who

on the basis of the Law of God separated themselves from the people

of the lands-their wives, their sons, and their daughters, that is,

every one capable of knowledge and understanding-

29 (Ps 119:106;

2Ki 23:3) have decisively joined in with their countrymen

and their nobles, and obligated themselves-by both a curse and an oath-to

walk in the Law of God, which was given by Moses the servant of God,

and to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord who is our Lord,

along with His judgments and His statutes

30 (Ex 34:16; Dt 7:3) so that we will not give our daughters

to the people of the land nor take their daughters for our sons.

31 (Ex 23:10-11; Ne 13:15-22) If the people of the land bring merchandise

or any grain on the Sabbath day to sell, we will not buy from them

on the Sabbath or a holy day. We will also renounce the seventh year harvest

and the full payment of every debt.

32 (Ex 30:11-16) We also establish for ourselves the ordinance to collect

from ourselves annually one-third of a shekel for the service of the house

of our God:

33 (2Ch 2:4; Lev 24:5-6) for the showbread, the continual grain offering,

the continual burnt offering, the Sabbaths, the New Moons, the appointed

feasts, the holy things, and the sin offerings to make an atonement for

Israel, as well as for all the work of the house of our God.

34 (Ne 13:31; Isa 40:16) Also, we cast lots to determine the duty

of the supply of wood that the priests, the Levites,

and the people-according to the houses of our fathers,

being set by annually appointed times-might bring to the house of our God,

in order to burn it on the altar of the Lord our God,

as it is written in the Law;

35 (Ex 23:19; Dt 26:2) and, likewise, for the annual bringing

of the first fruits of our ground and the first fruits of all fruit

of all trees to the house of the Lord;

36 (Ex 13:2; Lev 27:26-27) and for bringing to the priests

who are ministering at the house of God, the firstborn of our sons

and livestock, as it is written in the Law, plus the firstborn

of our herds and flocks.

37 (Lev 23:17; Nu 18:21) Moreover, the first of our fresh dough,

our contributions, the fruit of every tree, and the new wine and oil we will

bring to the priests at the chambers of the house of our God, but the tithe

of our crops we will bring to the Levites, since they themselves receive

the tithes in all our agricultural cities.

38 (Ne 13:12-13) There must be a priest, a descendant of Aaron,

with the Levites when they are collecting tithes, and the Levites

will offer a tenth of the tithes to the house of our God,

for the chambers of the storehouse.

39 (2Ch 31:12) Both the children of Israel and the Levites

should bring the contribution of the grain, new wine,

and the fresh oil to the chambers because the vessels of the sanctuary

and the ministering priests, the gatekeepers, and the singers are there.

We resolve not to forsake the house of our God.



[1] Now those that sealed were, Nehemiah, the Tirshatha, the son of

Hachaliah, and Zidkijah,

[2] Seraiah, Azariah, Jeremiah,

[3] Pashur, Amariah, Malchijah,

[4] Hattush, Shebaniah, Malluch,

[5] Harim, Meremoth, Obadiah,

[6] Daniel, Ginnethon, Baruch,

[7] Meshullam, Abijah, Mijamin,

[8] Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah: these were the priests.

[9] And the Levites: both Jeshua the son of Azaniah, Binnui of the sons

of Henadad, Kadmiel;

[10] And their brethren, Shebaniah, Hodijah, Kelita, Pelaiah, Hanan,

[11] Micha, Rehob, Hashabiah,

[12] Zaccur, Sherebiah, Shebaniah,

[13] Hodijah, Bani, Beninu.

[14] The chief of the people; Parosh, Pahath-moab, Elam, Zatthu, Bani,

[15] Bunni, Azgad, Bebai,

[16] Adonijah, Bigvai, Adin,

[17] Ater, Hizkijah, Azzur,

[18] Hodijah, Hashum, Bezai,

[19] Hariph, Anathoth, Nebai,

[20] Magpiash, Meshullam, Hezir,

[21] Meshezabeel, Zadok, Jaddua,

[22] Pelatiah, Hanan, Anaiah,

[23] Hoshea, Hananiah, Hashub,

[24] Hallohesh, Pileha, Shobek,

[25] Rehum, Hashabnah, Maaseiah,

[26] And Ahijah, Hanan, Anan,

[27] Malluch, Harim, Baanah.

[28] And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the

singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves from the

people of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their

daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding;

[29] They clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse,

and into an oath, to walk in God's law, which was given by Moses the servant

of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the LORD our Lord, and

his judgments and his statutes;

[30] And that we would not give our daughters unto the people of the land,

nor take their daughters for our sons:

[31] And if the people of the land bring ware or any victuals on the sabbath

day to sell, that we would not buy it of them on the sabbath, or on the holy

day: and that we would leave the seventh year, and the exaction of every

debt.

[32] Also we made ordinances for us, to charge ourselves yearly with the

third part of a shekel for the service of the house of our God;

[33] For the shewbread, and for the continual meat offering, and for the

continual burnt offering, of the sabbaths, of the new moons, for the set

feasts, and for the holy things, and for the sin offerings to make an

atonement for Israel, and for all the work of the house of our God.

[34] And we cast the lots among the priests, the Levites, and the people,

for the wood offering, to bring it into the house of our God, after the

houses of our fathers, at times appointed year by year, to burn upon the

altar of the LORD our God, as it is written in the law:

[35] And to bring the firstfruits of our ground, and the firstfruits of all

fruit of all trees, year by year, unto the house of the LORD:

[36] Also the firstborn of our sons, and of our cattle, as it is written in

the law, and the firstlings of our herds and of our flocks, to bring to the

house of our God, unto the priests that minister in the house of our God:

[37] And that we should bring the firstfruits of our dough, and our

offerings, and the fruit of all manner of trees, of wine and of oil, unto

the priests, to the chambers of the house of our God; and the tithes of our

ground unto the Levites, that the same Levites might have the tithes in all

the cities of our tillage.

[38] And the priest the son of Aaron shall be with the Levites, when the

Levites take tithes: and the Levites shall bring up the tithe of the tithes

unto the house of our God, to the chambers, into the treasure house.

[39] For the children of Israel and the children of Levi shall bring the

offering of the corn, of the new wine, and the oil, unto the chambers, where

are the vessels of the sanctuary, and the priests that minister, and the

porters, and the singers: and we will not forsake the house of our God.



2) Our Daily Bread for 18 September 2022

https://odb.org/CA/2022/09/18/learning-and-loving

Entitled "Learning and Loving"



Mark 10:13-16



Little Children Blessed

Mt 19:13-18; Lk 18:15-17



13 (Mt 19:13-15; Mk 10:48) They brought young children to Him,

that He might touch them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them.

14 But when Jesus saw it, He was very displeased and said to them,

"Allow the little children to come to Me, and do not forbid them,

for of such is the kingdom of God.

15 (Mt 18:3; Lk 18:17) Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive

the kingdom of God as a little child shall not enter it."

16 (Mk 9:36) And He took them up in His arms, put His hands on them,

and blessed them.



[13] And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and

his disciples rebuked those that brought them.

[14] But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them,

Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such

is the kingdom of God.

[15] Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God

as a little child, he shall not enter therein.

[16] And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed

them.



At a primary school in Greenock, Scotland, three teachers on maternity leave

brought their babies to school every two weeks to interact with

schoolchildren. Playtime with babies teaches children empathy, or care

and feeling for others. Often, the most receptive are the students who are "a

little challenging," as one teacher put it. "It's often [schoolchildren] who

interact more on a one-to-one level." They learn "how much hard work it is to

take care of a child," and "more about each other's feelings as well."



Learning from an infant to care about others isn't a new idea to believers in

Jesus. We know the One who came as the baby Jesus. His birth changed

everything we understand about caring relationships. The first to learn of

Christ's birth were shepherds, a humble profession involving care of weak and

vulnerable sheep. Later, when children were brought to Jesus, He corrected

disciples who thought children unworthy. "Allow the little children to come to

Me," he said, "and do not forbid them, for of such is the kingdom of God." (Mark 10:14).



Jesus "took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed

them" (v. 16). In our own lives, as His sometimes "challenging" children, we

could be considered unworthy too. Instead, as the One who came as a child,

Christ accepts us with His love-thereby teaching us the caring power

of loving babies and all people.



By: Patricia Raybon



Reflect & Pray



What do you enjoy about spending time with children?

What is Jesus teaching you today about how to love and care for others?



Our caring God, when I forget to show empathy for others,

help me to care as You would.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 1 Call to the Lord - 2 Samuel 22:3-4



3 (Ge 15:1; Ps 9:9) the God of my strength, in whom I will trust;

my shield and the horn of my salvation,

my fortress and my sanctuary;

my Savior, You save me from violence.

4 (Ps 48:1; 96:4) I call upon the Lord, who is praiseworthy,

and I am saved from my enemies.



3 The God of my rock; in him

will I trust:

He is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge,

My saviour; thou savest me from violence.

4 I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised:

So shall I be saved from mine enemies.



In the old Days of Television Western, we could always tell who the enemy was.

The bad guys wore black hats; the evil villain had a scar across

his cheek or a patch over one eye. But real life is

not quite so simple . Enemies come in many forms, and often are not easy to

recognise. Sin is an enemy; even those we love can seek

to undermine our faith;

modern materialism and distorted values lead us away from biblical principles.

These enemies may not seek our death in a physical sense,

but their influence results in spiritual death or, at the very least,

immaturity.

Yet God promises to rescue us from our enemies. David describes the Lord as a

"rock", a "shield", a "stronghold", and a "refuge". God provides a stable

foundation for our faith; he products us from the attacks of the enemy;

he offers a place of rest in battle.

Our battles are usually not physical ones, but rather spiritual

and emotional wars.

We struggle with difficult relationships, the burdens of the past,

the subtle accusations of the devil.

But these enemies can be overcome. David says,

"I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise" .

When we turn to the Lord, trust his Word, acknowledge his

worthiness, we put our own problems and difficulties in perspective.

We see that God is able to rescue us, and has promised to do so.

And as we respond to his grace by focusing

on him, we abandon trust in ourselves and allow him to do what he promised.



Application



a) What kinds of enemies do I face?



b) How have I tried to deal with those enemies by myself?



c) How can today's verses help me turn to the sources of my rescue?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Mark 4:23-29



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."



The Parable of the Growing Seed



26 (Mt 13:24) He said, "The kingdom of God is like a man

who scatters seed on the ground.

27 (Ecc 11:5) He sleeps and rises night and day,

and the seed sprouts and grows; he does not know how.

28 For the earth bears fruit by itself: first the blade,

then the head, then the full seed in the head.

29 (Joel 3:13) But when the grain is ripe,

immediately he applies the sickle because the harvest has come."



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.

26 And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should

cast seed into the ground;

27 and should sleep, and rise night and day,

and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.

28 For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade,

then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.

29 But when the fruit is brought forth,

immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come."



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Gift of Salvation



Ps 51:1-13



PSALMS 51



For the Music Director. A Psalm of David,

when Nathan the Prophet came to him,

after he had gone in to Bathsheba.



1 Have mercy on me, O God,

according to Your lovingkindness;

according to the abundance of Your compassion,

blot out my transgressions.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2 ) Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,

and cleanse me from my sin.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) For I acknowledge my transgressions,

and my sin is ever before me.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Against You, You only, have I sinned,

and done this evil in Your sight,

so that You are justified when You speak,

and You are blameless when You judge.

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) I was brought forth in iniquity,

and in sin my mother conceived me.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) You desire truth in the inward parts,

and in the hidden part You make me to know wisdom.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3 ) Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Make me to hear joy and gladness,

that the bones that You have broken may rejoice.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Hide Your face from my sins,

and blot out all my iniquities.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Create in me a clean heart, O God,

and renew a right spirit within me.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Do not cast me away from Your presence,

and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation,

and uphold me with Your willing spirit.

13 Then I will teach transgressors Your ways,

and sinners will return to You.



To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet

came unto him, after he had gone in to Bath-sheba.



1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness:

According unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.

2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity,

And cleanse me from my sin.

3 For I acknowledge my transgressions:

And my sin is ever before me.

4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight:

That thou mightest be justified when thou speakest,

and be clear when thou judgest.

5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity;

And in sin did my mother conceive me.

6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts:

And in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean:

Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

8 Make me to hear joy and gladness;

That the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.

9 Hide thy face from my sins,

And blot out all mine iniquities.

10 Create in me a clean heart, O God;

And renew a right spirit within me.

11 Cast me not away from thy presence;

And take not thy holy spirit from me.

12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation;

And uphold me with thy free spirit.

13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways;

And sinners shall be converted unto thee.

Remember God's promises when You pray



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims

in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



18th Day of the Month



a) Pray that pastors will experience spiritual, emotional and physical

refreshing for the presence of the Lord



( Jer 31:25



25 For I satiate the weary souls and I replenish every languishing soul.



25 For I have satiated the weary soul,

and I have replenished every sorrowful soul.

)



b) Pray that the Lord will protect and deliver our nation from

danger and adversity



( Ps 34:7



7 The angel of the Lord camps around those who fear Him,

and delivers them.



7 The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him,

And delivereth them.



)



Conclusion:



Pray to be a bondservent of Jesus Christ.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him through His Word.



Pray to the Lord: "Our caring God, when I forget to show empathy for others,

help me to care as You would."



Pray to the Lord and remember there is a spiritual war going on in Heaven.



Pray to the Lord and ask Him to grow the Word in you.



Pray to the Lord and confess your sins and as the Lord to blot them out.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that pastors will experience spiritual, emotional and physical

refreshing for the presence of the Lord



Pray that the Lord will protect and deliver our nation from

danger and adversity



Pray for the training and equipping of pastors in Sri Lanka so they can

minister amid the humanitarian crisis.



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.

Day 260 of My Second Bible Study Journey - 17 September reflections

Day 260, 17 September 2022



1) Nehemiah 7:4-73,8:1-12



Nehemiah 7:4-73



4 Now the city was large and spacious, yet the people in it were few

since there had been no houses built.



The List of Returned Exiles



Ezr 2:1-70



5 So my God put an idea in my mind, and I gathered the nobles, the officials,

and the people together to conduct a genealogy registration. When I found

the book of the genealogical register, it contained the list of those

who first came back. I found written in it:

6 (Ezr 2:1-70) These are the people of the province who returned

from the captivity of the exiles whom King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon

had carried away, but came back to Jerusalem and to Judah,

everyone to his city.

7 (Ezr 2:2) Those who came with Zerubbabel were Joshua, Nehemiah,

Azariah, Raamiah, Nahamani, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispereth, Bigvai,

Nehum, and Baanah.

The number of the men of the people of Israel was this:

8 The sons of Parosh, 2172;

9 the sons of Shephatiah, 372;

10 (Ezr 2:5) the sons of Arah, six hundred and fifty-two;

11 (Ezr 2:6) the sons of Pahath-Moab, of the sons of Jeshua and Joab,

two thousand eight hundred and eighteen;

12 the sons of Elam, one thousand two hundred and fifty-four;

13 (Ezr 2:8) the sons of Zattu, eight hundred and forty-five;

14 the sons of Zakkai, seven hundred and sixty;

15 (Ezr 2:10) the sons of Binnui, six hundred and forty-eight;

16 the sons of Bebai, six hundred and twenty-eight;

17 (Ezr 2:12) the sons of Azgad, two thousand three hundred and twenty-two;

18 the sons of Adonikam, six hundred and sixty-seven;

19 the sons of Bigvai, two thousand and sixty-seven;

20 (Ezr 2:15) the sons of Adin, six hundred and fifty-five;

21 the sons of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety-­eight;

22 (Ezr 2:19) the sons of Hashum, three hundred and twenty-eight;

23 (Ezr 2:17) the sons of Bezai, three hundred and twenty-four;

24 the sons of Hariph, one hundred and twelve;

25 (Ezr 2:20) the sons of Gibeon, ninety-five.

26 The men of Bethlehem and Netophah, one hundred and eighty-eight;

27 the men of Anathoth, one hundred and twenty-eight;

28 (Ezr 2:24) the men of Beth Azmaveth, ­forty-two;

29 (Jos 18:25; Ezr 2:25) the men of Kiriath Jearim, Kephirah, and Beeroth,

seven hundred and forty-three;

30 the men of Ramah and Geba, six hundred and twenty-one;

31 the men of Mikmash, one hundred and twenty-two;

32 (Ezr 2:28) the men of Bethel and Ai, one hundred and twenty-three;

33 the men of the other Nebo, fifty-two;

34 (Ne 7:12) the sons of the other Elam, one thousand two hundred and fifty-four;

35 the sons of Harim, three hundred and twenty;

36 the sons of Jericho, three hundred and forty-five;

37 (1Ch 8:12) the sons of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, seven hundred and twenty-one;

38 the sons of Senaah, three thousand nine hundred and thirty.



Priestly Leaders



39 The priests:

the sons of Jedaiah, of the house of Jesh­ua, nine hundred and seventy-three;

40 (1Ch 24:14)the sons of Immer, one thousand and fifty-two;

41 (1Ch 9:12) the sons of Pashhur, one thousand two hundred and forty-seven;

42 (1Ch 24:8) the sons of Harim, one thousand and seventeen.

43 (Ezr 2:40) The Levites:

the sons of Jeshua, of Kadmiel, and of the sons of Hodaviah, seventy-four.

44 The singers:

the sons of Asaph, one hundred and forty-eight.

45 The gatekeepers:

the sons of Shallum, the sons of Ater, the sons of Talmon, the sons of Akkub,

the sons of Hatita, the sons of Shobai, one hundred and thirty-­eight.

46 The temple servants:

the sons of Ziha, the sons of Hasupha, the sons of Tabbaoth,

47 (Ezr 2:44)the sons of Keros, the sons of Sia, the sons of Padon,

48 the sons of Lebana, the sons of Hagaba, the sons of Shalmai,

49 the sons of Hanan, the sons of Giddel, the sons of Gahar,

50 the sons of Reaiah, the sons of Rezin, the sons of Nekoda,

51 the sons of Gazzam, the sons of Uzza, the sons of Paseah,

52 (Ezr 2:50) the sons of Besai, the sons of Meu­nim, the sons of Nephusim,

53 the sons of Bakbuk, the sons of Hakupha, the sons of Harhur,

54 (Ezr 2:52) the sons of Bazluth, the sons of Mehida, the sons of Harsha,

55 the sons of Barkos, the sons of Sisera, the sons of Temah,

56 the sons of Neziah, the sons of Hatipha.

57 (Ezr 2:55) The sons of Solomon's servants:

the sons of Sotai, the sons of Sophereth, the sons of Perida,

58the sons of Jaala, the sons of Darkon, the sons of Giddel,

59 (Ezr 2:57)the sons of Shephatiah, the sons of Hattil,

the sons of Pokereth-Hazzebaim, the sons of Amon.

60 All the temple servants and the sons of Solomon's servants

were three hundred and ninety-two.

61 (Ezr 2:59) These were they who came up from Tel Melah, Tel Harsha,

Kerub, Addon, and Immer, but they could not show their fathers' houses

nor their lineage-whether they were of Israel:

62 The sons of

Delaiah, the sons of Tobiah, the sons of Nekoda, six hundred and forty-two.

63 Of the priests:

the sons of

Hobaiah, the sons of Hakkoz, the sons of Barzillai, who married

one of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called by their name.

64 These sought for their fathers' registration in the genealogical registry,

but it was not found. Therefore, they were considered as unclean

and removed from the priesthood.

65 (Ne 8:9; Ex 28:30) The magistrate said to them that they should not eat

of the most holy things until there was an appointed priest

with Urim and Thummim.

66 (Ezr 2:64) The whole congregation together was 42360,

67 besides their male and female servants, which numbered 7337;

and they had two hundred and forty-five male and female singers.

68 Their horses were seven hundred and thirty-six; their mules,

two hundred and forty-five;

69 their camels, four hundred and thirty-five; the donkeys,

six thousand seven hundred and twenty.

70 (Ne 8:9) Some of the chiefs of the fathers' households gave to the work.

The magistrate gave to the treasury one thousand gold drachmas,

[About 19 pounds, or 8.4 kilograms.]

fifty basins, and five hundred and thirty priests' garments.

71 Others of the chiefs of the fathers' households gave to the treasury

for the work twenty thousand gold drachmas

[About 375 pounds, or 170 kilograms; and in v. 72.]

and two thousand two hundred silver minas.

[About 1 1/3 tons, or 1.2 metric tons. ]

72 What the rest of the people gave was twenty thousand gold drachmas,

two thousand silver minas,

[About 1 1/4 tons, or 1.1 metric tons.]

and sixty-seven priests' garments.

73 So the priests, the Levites, the gatekeepers, the singers,

some of the people, the temple servants, and all Israel lived in their cities.



[4] Now the city was large and great: but the people were few therein, and

the houses were not builded.

[5] And my God put into mine heart to gather together the nobles, and the

rulers, and the people, that they might be reckoned by genealogy. And I

found a register of the genealogy of them which came up at the first, and

found written therein,

[6] These are the children of the province, that went up out of the

captivity, of those that had been carried away, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king

of Babylon had carried away, and came again to Jerusalem and to Judah, every

one unto his city;

[7] Who came with Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, Azariah, Raamiah, Nahamani,

Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispereth, Bigvai, Nehum, Baanah. The number, I say, of

the men of the people of Israel was this;

[8] The children of Parosh, two thousand an hundred seventy and two.

[9] The children of Shephatiah, three hundred seventy and two.

[10] The children of Arah, six hundred fifty and two.

[11] The children of Pahath-moab, of the children of Jeshua and Joab, two

thousand and eight hundred and eighteen.

[12] The children of Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four.

[13] The children of Zattu, eight hundred forty and five.

[14] The children of Zaccai, seven hundred and threescore.

[15] The children of Binnui, six hundred forty and eight.

[16] The children of Bebai, six hundred twenty and eight.

[17] The children of Azgad, two thousand three hundred twenty and two.

[18] The children of Adonikam, six hundred threescore and seven.

[19] The children of Bigvai, two thousand threescore and seven.

[20] The children of Adin, six hundred fifty and five.

[21] The children of Ater of Hezekiah, ninety and eight.

[22] The children of Hashum, three hundred twenty and eight.

[23] The children of Bezai, three hundred twenty and four.

[24] The children of Hariph, an hundred and twelve.

[25] The children of Gibeon, ninety and five.

[26] The men of Bethlehem and Netophah, an hundred fourscore and eight.

[27] The men of Anathoth, an hundred twenty and eight.

[28] The men of Beth-azmaveth, forty and two.

[29] The men of Kirjath-jearim, Chephirah, and Beeroth, seven hundred forty

and three.

[30] The men of Ramah and Geba, six hundred twenty and one.

[31] The men of Michmas, an hundred and twenty and two.

[32] The men of Bethel and Ai, an hundred twenty and three.

[33] The men of the other Nebo, fifty and two.

[34] The children of the other Elam, a thousand two hundred fifty and four.

[35] The children of Harim, three hundred and twenty.

[36] The children of Jericho, three hundred forty and five.

[37] The children of Lod, Hadid, and Ono, seven hundred twenty and one.

[38] The children of Senaah, three thousand nine hundred and thirty.

[39] The priests: the children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine

hundred seventy and three.

[40] The children of Immer, a thousand fifty and two.

[41] The children of Pashur, a thousand two hundred forty and seven.

[42] The children of Harim, a thousand and seventeen.

[43] The Levites: the children of Jeshua, of Kadmiel, and of the

children of Hodevah, seventy and four.

[44] The singers: the children of Asaph, an hundred forty and eight.

[45] The porters: the children of Shallum, the children of Ater, the

children of Talmon, the children of Akkub, the children of Hatita, the

children of Shobai, an hundred thirty and eight.

[46] The Nethinims: the children of Ziha, the children of Hashupha, the

children of Tabbaoth,

[47] The children of Keros, the children of Sia, the children of Padon,

[48] The children of Lebana, the children of Hagaba, the children of

Shalmai,

[49] The children of Hanan, the children of Giddel, the children of Gahar,

[50] The children of Reaiah, the children of Rezin, the children of Nekoda,

[51] The children of Gazzam, the children of Uzza, the children of Phaseah,

[52] The children of Besai, the children of Meunim, the children of

Nephishesim,

[53] The children of Bakbuk, the children of Hakupha, the children of

Harhur,

[54] The children of Bazlith, the children of Mehida, the children of

Harsha,

[55] The children of Barkos, the children of Sisera, the children of Tamah,

[56] The children of Neziah, the children of Hatipha.

[57] The children of Solomon's servants: the children of Sotai, the children

of Sophereth, the children of Perida,

[58] The children of Jaala, the children of Darkon, the children of Giddel,

[59] The children of Shephatiah, the children of Hattil, the children of

Pochereth of Zebaim, the children of Amon.

[60] All the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants, were three

hundred ninety and two.

[61] And these were they which went up also from Telmelah, Telharesha,

Cherub, Addon, and Immer: but they could not shew their father's house, nor

their seed, whether they were of Israel.

[62] The children of Delaiah, the children of Tobiah, the children of

Nekoda, six hundred forty and two.

[63] And of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the

children of Barzillai, which took one of the daughters of Barzillai the

Gileadite to wife, and was called after their name.

[64] These sought their register among those that were reckoned by

genealogy, but it was not found: therefore were they, as polluted, put from

the priesthood.

[65] And the Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most

holy things, till there stood up a priest with Urim and Thummim.

[66] The whole congregation together was forty and two thousand three

hundred and threescore,

[67] Beside their manservants and their maidservants, of whom there were

seven thousand three hundred thirty and seven: and they had two hundred

forty and five singing men and singing women.

[68] Their horses, seven hundred thirty and six: their mules, two hundred

forty and five:

[69] Their camels, four hundred thirty and five: six thousand seven hundred

and twenty asses.

[70] And some of the chief of the fathers gave unto the work. The Tirshatha

gave to the treasure a thousand drams of gold, fifty basons, five hundred

and thirty priests' garments.

[71] And some of the chief of the fathers gave to the treasure of the work

twenty thousand drams of gold, and two thousand and two hundred pound of

silver.

[72] And that which the rest of the people gave was twenty thousand drams of

gold, and two thousand pound of silver, and threescore and seven priests'

garments.

[73] So the priests, and the Levites, and the porters, and the singers, and

some of the people, and the Nethinims, and all Israel, dwelt in their

cities; and when the seventh month came, the children of Israel were in

their cities.



Nehemiah 8:1-12



1 (Ezr 7:6; Ne 3:26) All the people gathered together as one man in the area

in front of the Water Gate, and they asked Ezra the scribe to bring

the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel.

2 (Lev 23:24; Nu 29:1) On the first day of the seventh month,

Ezra the priest brought the Law before the congregation of men, women,

and all who could listen with understanding.

3 In the area in front of the Water Gate, he read aloud from sunrise until

midday to the men, women, and those who could understand.

All the people listened attentively to the Book of the Law.

4 Ezra the scribe stood on a raised wood platform, which they had made

for the purpose. Beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah,

and Maaseiah on his right hand; and on his left hand, Pedaiah, Mishael,

Malkijah, Hashum, Hashbaddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam.

5 (Jdg 3:20; 1Ki 8:14) Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people

(because he was above all the people), and, as he opened it, all the people

stood up.

6 (Ex 4:31; Ne 5:13)When Ezra blessed the Lord as the great God, all

the people responded "Amen, Amen!" By lifting up their hands as they bowed

their heads, they worshipped the Lord with their faces to the ground.

7 (Ne 9:4; Ezr 10:22-23; Ne 3:23Then Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub,

Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kel­ita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah,

and the Levites, explained the Law to the people while the people stood in

their place.

8 They read from the book, from the Law of God, with interpretation, and

they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading.

9 (Ne 7:65; 7:70) Then Nehemiah the magistrate, Ezra the priest and scribe,

and the Levites who were teaching the people said to all the people, "This

day is holy to the Lord your God. Stop mourning and weeping." (This was

because all the people wept when they heard the words of the Law.)

10 (Dt 26:11-13; Est 9:19) Then he said to them, "Go your way. Eat the fat,

drink the sweet drink, and send portions to those for whom nothing is

prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy

of the Lord is your strength."

11 So the Levites quieted all the people, saying,

"Hush! Because today is holy you should stop being so sorrowful."

12 (Ne 8:7-8) Then all the people went to eat, to drink, to send portions,

and to enjoy a great celebration because they had understood the words

declared to them.



[1] And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the

street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe

to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to

Israel.

[2] And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men

and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first

day of the seventh month.

[3] And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate

from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that

could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the

book of the law.

[4] And Ezra the scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for

the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, and Shema, and Anaiah, and

Urijah, and Hilkiah, and Maaseiah, on his right hand; and on his left hand,

Pedaiah, and Mishael, and Malchiah, and Hashum, and Hashbadana, Zechariah,

and Meshullam.

[5] And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was

above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:

[6] And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered,

Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and

worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.

[7] Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah,

Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused

the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place.

[8] So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the

sense, and caused them to understand the reading.

[9] And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe,

and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day

is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people

wept, when they heard the words of the law.

[10] Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet,

and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is

holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your

strength.

[11] So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the

day is holy; neither be ye grieved.

[12] And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send

portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words

that were declared unto them.



2) Our Daily Bread for 17 September 2022

https://odb.org/CA/2022/09/17/deep-water-rescue

Entitled "Deep-Water Rescue"



Psalm 18:1-3,16-19



1 I love You, O Lord, my strength.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) The Lord is my pillar, and my fortress, and my deliverer;

my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge;

my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) I will call on the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,

and I will be saved from my enemies.

16 He sent from above, He took me;

He drew me out of many waters.

17 He delivered me from my strong enemy,

and from those who hated me,

for they were too strong for me.

18 They confronted me in the day of my calamity,

but the Lord was my support.

19 He also brought me forth into a large place;

He delivered me because He delighted in me.



[1] I will love thee, O LORD, my strength.

[2] The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my

strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation,

and my high tower.

[3] I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be

saved from mine enemies.

[16] He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many waters.

[17] He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for

they were too strong for me.

[18] They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay.

[19] He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because

he delighted in me.



A record rainfall more than tripled what was forecasted in Waverly, Tennessee,

in August 2021. In the wake of the powerful storm, twenty people lost their

lives and hundreds of homes were destroyed. Had it not been for the compassion

and skill of helicopter pilot Joel Boyers, the loss of human life would’ve been

even greater.



The pilot took flight in response to a phone call from a woman who was

concerned about her loved ones. In addition to seeing houses on fire and cars

in trees, Boyers noted, "It was nothing but [muddy], raging water below me."

The pilot, however, bravely proceeded to rescue twelve people

from the roofs of their homes.



More often than not in life, the swirling floods we face aren't literal-but

oh, how real! In days of uncertainty and instability, we can feel overwhelmed,

unsafe-"in over our heads" mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

But we don't need to despair.



In Psalm 18, we read how David's enemies were many and mighty, but his God was

greater. How great? So great and powerful (v. 1) that he used multiple

metaphors (v. 2) to describe Him. God was mighty enough to rescue from deep

waters and strong enemies (vv. 16-17). How great? Great enough for us to call

upon Him in the name of Jesus, regardless of the volume and

depth of the "waters" surrounding us in life (v. 3).



By: Arthur Jackson



Reflect & Pray



What deep waters are you facing that compel you to call upon God?

What keeps you from calling on Him?



Strong, saving, rescuing God, in the midst

of my distress, when life's waters are raging, grant me the faith to see

You and cleave to You in every storm.



For further study, read Clinging to Hope in the Storm.




3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 7 God's Bulldozer - Luke 3:5-6



5 (Isa 40:4; 42:16) Every valley shall be filled

and every mountain and hill shall be brought low;

and the crooked shall be made straight

and the rough ways shall be made smooth;

6 (Isa 40:5; 52:10) and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.



5 Every valley shall be filled,

And every mountain and hill shall be brought low;

And the crooked shall be made straight,

And the rough ways shall be made smooth;

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.



When a new highway is being constructed, the roads crew work hard

in preparing for the new surface to be laid. Giant bulldozers cut through

the hillsides, moving earth, leveling, filling, evening the path out where

the roadway will run. When the work is first begun, if often looks like chaos:

and even after the highway begins to take shape, the land is still ugly,

scarred by the unsightly gashes cut through the landscape. Yet after

the work is completed and the grass and trees are replanted, we forget

the temporary upheaval and see only the

beauty of the land and the convenience of the new roadway.

In Luke 3:5-6, John the Baptist presents a prophecy of the coming of Christ,

a prophecy quoted from Isaiah 40:3-5 . The prophecy speaks of the preparation

of the world for the coming Messiah, but is also applies to the preparation

of the individual heart to receive him.

Sometimes, the Holy Spirit must do major work in our hearts to prepare us for

the coming of Christ into our live. Like a bulldozer, he brings down the

mountains of pride in our lives. He fill the empty places , corrects

the crooked, grades down the rough edges of our hearts.

Often this is not pleasant work. We prefer to maintain the rugged landscape

of Self, and we do not like the ugly scars that are left after the bulldozer

has done its job.

But if we submit to the Spirit's "Construction work" in us, the way will be

paved for the Lord to enter into our lives, and others will see in us,

the way be paved for the Lord to enter into our lives, and other will see

in us the glory and salvation of our God.



Application



a) What "construction work" has to Holy Spirit done in me?



b) What restoration has taken place because of that work?



c) How do today's verses help me put in perspective the work

God still want to do in me?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Philip 4:19



19 (Ro 2:4) But my God shall supply your every need according

to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.



19 But my God shall supply all your need according

to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Reconciling Peace



Ps 85:8-13



8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) I will hear what God the Lord will speak,

for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints,

but let them not turn again to folly.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Surely His salvation is near to them who fear Him,

that glory may dwell in our land.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Mercy and truth have met together;

righteousness and peace have kissed.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Truth springs from the ground,

and righteousness looks down from the sky.

12 Yes, the Lord gives that which is good,

and our land shall yield its increase.

13 Righteousness shall go before Him

and prepare a way for His footsteps.



8 I will hear what God the LORD will speak:

For he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints:

But let them not turn again to folly.

9 Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him;

That glory may dwell in our land.

10 Mercy and truth are met together;

Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

11 Truth shall spring out of the earth;

And righteousness shall look down from heaven.

12 Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good;

And our land shall yield her increase.

13 Righteousness shall go before him;

And shall set us in the way of his steps.



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?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



17th Day of the Month



a) Pray for the safety of those

who live in your community -

safety from conflict an crimes



( Ps 122:7 - 7 Peace be within your walls

and security within your towers!



7 Peace be within thy walls,

And prosperity within thy palaces.)



b) Pray for the province of Ontario



I) Pray for the leaders of Ontario,

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



)





Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray for the joy of the Lord to be upon you.



Pray to the Lord: "Strong, saving, rescuing God, in the midst

of my distress, when life's waters are raging, grant me the faith to see

You and cleave to You in every storm."



Pray to the Lord and pray to Him do the construction work He needs

to see you through.



Pray to the Lord and remember He supplies all your needs.



Pray to the Lord and thank Him for He is salvation.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray for the safety of those

who live in your community -

safety from conflict an crimes



Pray that God will mobilise more Bhutanese Christians to share the Gospel

with the unreached.



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.

Day 259 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 16 September 2022 reflections

Day 259, 16 September 2022



1) Nehemiah 3 - 7:3



Nehemiah 3



Rebuilding the Wall



1 (Ne 12:39; Jer 31:38; Ne 13:28) Then Eliashib the high priest rose up

with his brothers the priests, and they built the Sheep Gate.

They sanctified it and erected its doors. From the Tower of the Hundred

to the Tower of Hananel, they sanctified the wall.

2 (Ne 7:36; Ezr 2:34) Next to him the men of Jericho built,

and next to them Zakkur the son of Imri built.

3 (Ne 12:39; 2Ch 33:14) The sons of Hassenaah built the Fish Gate,

constructing its beams, erecting its doors, and installing locks

and bars for it.

4 (Ezr 8:33; Ne 3:21) Next to them Meremoth the son of Uriah,

the son of Hakkoz made repairs. Next to him, Meshullam the son of Berekiah,

the son of Meshezabel made repairs. Next to him Zadok the son of Baana

made repairs.

5 (2Sa 14:2; Ne 3:27) Next to them the Tekoites made repairs,

but their noblemen would not put their shoulders to the work of their Lord.

6 (Ne 12:39) Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah

repaired the Old Gate. They constructed its beams, erected its doors,

and installed locks and bars for it.

7 Next to them repairs were made by Melatiah the Gibeonite

and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah,

places under the authority of the governor of the province Beyond the River.

8 (Ne 12:38; 3:31-32) Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah,

one of the goldsmiths, made repairs. Next to him Hananiah,

the son of one of the apothecaries, made repairs, and they repaired Jerusalem

as far as the Broad Wall.

9 (Ne 3:12; 3:17) Next to him Rephaiah the son of Hur, commander of half

of the Jerusalem district, made repairs.

10 Next to him Jedaiah the son of Harumaph made repairs across from his house.

Next to him Hattush the son of Hashabneiah made repairs.

11 (Ne 12:38) Malkijah the son of Harim and Hasshub the son of Pahath-Moab

repaired another section, as well as the Tower of the Furnaces.

12 (Ne 3:9) Next to them Shallum the son of Hallohesh,

commander of the other half of the Jerusalem district, made repairs

along with his daughters.

13 (Ne 2:13; Jos 15:34) Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired

the Valley Gate. They rebuilt it, erected its doors, and installed locks

and bars for it, plus repaired one thousand cubits

[About 1,500 feet, or about 450 meters.] along on the wall to the Dung Gate.

14 (Jer 6:1; Ne 2:13) But the Dung Gate was repaired by Malkijah the son

of Rekab, commander of the Beth Hakkerem district. He rebuilt it,

and erected its doors, and installed the locks and bars for it.

15 (Ne 12:37; Jn 9:7) Moreover, Shallun the son of Kol-Hozeh,

commander of the Mizpah district, made repairs to the Fountain Gate.

He rebuilt it, covered it, erected its doors, and installed the locks

and bars for it. He also repaired the wall of the pool of Shelah by the king's

garden as far as the steps going down from the City of David.

16 (2Ki 20:20; Ac 2:29) After him Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, commander of half

of the Beth Zur district, made repairs as far as the area across from the Tomb

of David plus to the constructed pool and to the house of the mighty.

17 (Jos 15:44) After him the Levites, under Rehum the son of Bani,

made repairs. Next to them Hash­abiah, commander of half of the Keilah

district, made repairs in his area.

18 After him their brothers, under Binnui the son of Henadad,

commander of the other half of the Keilah district, made repairs.

19 (2Ch 26:9) Next to them Ezer the son of Jeshua, commander of Mizpah,

made repairs to another section across from the ascent to the armory

at the corner.

20 (Ne 3:1) After him Baruch the son of Zabbai zealously repaired

another section, from the corner to the door of the house of Eliashib

the high priest.

21 After him Meremoth the son of Uriah the son of Hakkoz repaired

another section from the door of the house of Eliashib to the end of it.

22 (Ne 12:28) After him the priests,

the men of the surrounding plain, made repairs.

23 After them Benjamin and Hasshub made repairs across from their house.

After them Azariah the son of Maaseiah the son of Ananiah made repairs

beside his house.

24 (Ne 3:19) After him Binnui the son of Henadad repaired another section

from the house of Azariah as far as the corner plus the corner tower.

25 (Jer 32:2; 37:21) Palal the son of Uzai made repairs across from the corner

and to the tower protruding out of the king's upper house next

to the courtyard of the guards.

After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh made repairs.

26 (Ne 8:1; 11:21) The temple servants living in Ophel made repairs

from opposite the Water Gate eastward to the protruding tower.

27 (Ne 3:5) After them the Tekoites repaired another section across

from the great protruding tower as far as the wall of Ophel.

28 (2Ch 23:15; 2Ki 11:16) Up to the Horse Gate the priests made repairs

-each one across from his house.

29 After them Zadok the son of Immer repaired across from his house.

After him Shemaiah the son of Shekaniah, who was keeper of the East Gate,

made repairs.

30 After him Hananiah the son of Shelemiah and Hanun the sixth son of Zalaph

repaired another section. After them Meshullam the son of Berekiah made

repairs across from his chamber.

31 (Ne 3:8; 3:32) After him Malkijah the goldsmith's son made repairs

as far as the house of the temple servants and the merchants.

This was across from the Mustering Gate extending as far as the upper room

of the corner tower.

32 (Ne 3:1; 12:39) Between the upper room of the corner tower

and the Sheep Gate, the goldsmiths and the merchants made repairs.



Nehemiah 3

[1] Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and

they builded the sheep gate; they sanctified it, and set up the doors of it;

even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto the tower of Hananeel.

[2] And next unto him builded the men of Jericho. And next to them

builded Zaccur the son of Imri.

[3] But the fish gate did the sons of Hassenaah build, who also laid the

beams thereof, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the

bars thereof.

[4] And next unto them repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah, the son of Koz.

And next unto them repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah, the son of

Meshezabeel. And next unto them repaired Zadok the son of Baana.

[5] And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles put not

their necks to the work of their Lord.

[6] Moreover the old gate repaired Jehoiada the son of Paseah, and Meshullam

the son of Besodeiah; they laid the beams thereof, and set up the doors

thereof, and the locks thereof, and the bars thereof.

[7] And next unto them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the

Meronothite, the men of Gibeon, and of Mizpah, unto the throne of the

governor on this side the river.

[8] Next unto him repaired Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, of the goldsmiths.

Next unto him also repaired Hananiah the son of one of the apothecaries,

and they fortified Jerusalem unto the broad wall.

[9] And next unto them repaired Rephaiah the son of Hur, the ruler of the

half part of Jerusalem.

[10] And next unto them repaired Jedaiah the son of Harumaph, even over

against his house. And next unto him repaired Hattush the son of

Hashabniah.

[11] Malchijah the son of Harim, and Hashub the son of Pahath-moab, repaired

the other piece, and the tower of the furnaces.

[12] And next unto him repaired Shallum the son of Halohesh, the ruler

of the half part of Jerusalem, he and his daughters.

[13] The valley gate repaired Hanun, and the inhabitants of Zanoah; they

built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars

thereof, and a thousand cubits on the wall unto the dung gate.

[14] But the dung gate repaired Malchiah the son of Rechab, the ruler of

part of Beth-haccerem; he built it, and set up the doors thereof, the locks

thereof, and the bars thereof.

[15] But the gate of the fountain repaired Shallun the son of Col-hozeh,

the ruler of part of Mizpah; he built it, and covered it, and set up the

doors thereof, the locks thereof, and the bars thereof, and the wall of the

pool of Siloah by the king's garden, and unto the stairs that go down from

the city of David.

[16] After him repaired Nehemiah the son of Azbuk, the ruler of the half

part of Beth-zur, unto the place over against the sepulchres of David,

and to the pool that was made, and unto the house of the mighty.

[17] After him repaired the Levites, Rehum the son of Bani. Next unto him

repaired Hashabiah, the ruler of the half part of Keilah, in his part.

[18] After him repaired their brethren, Bavai the son of Henadad, the ruler

of the half part of Keilah.

[19] And next to him repaired Ezer the son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah,

another piece over against the going up to the armoury at the turning of

the wall.

[20] After him Baruch the son of Zabbai earnestly repaired the other piece,

from the turning of the wall unto the door of the house of Eliashib the

high priest.

[21] After him repaired Meremoth the son of Urijah the son of Koz another

piece, from the door of the house of Eliashib even to the end of the house

of Eliashib.

[22] And after him repaired the priests, the men of the plain.

[23] After him repaired Benjamin and Hashub over against their house. After

him repaired Azariah the son of Maaseiah the son of Ananiah by his house.

[24] After him repaired Binnui the son of Henadad another piece, from the

house of Azariah unto the turning of the wall, even unto the corner.

[25] Palal the son of Uzai, over against the turning of the wall, and the

tower which lieth out from the king's high house, that was by the court of

the prison. After him Pedaiah the son of Parosh.

[26] Moreover the Nethinims dwelt in Ophel, unto the place over against the

water gate toward the east, and the tower that lieth out.

[27] After them the Tekoites repaired another piece, over against the great

tower that lieth out, even unto the wall of Ophel.

[28] From above the horse gate repaired the priests, every one over against

his house.

[29] After them repaired Zadok the son of Immer over against his house.

After him repaired also Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the

east gate.

[30] After him repaired Hananiah the son of Shelemiah, and Hanun the sixth

son of Zalaph, another piece. After him repaired Meshullam the son of

Berechiah over against his chamber.

[31] After him repaired Malchiah the goldsmith's son unto the place of the

Nethinims, and of the merchants, over against the gate Miphkad, and to the

going up of the corner.

[32] And between the going up of the corner unto the sheep gate repaired the

goldsmiths and the merchants.



Nehemiah 4



Opposition to the Rebuilding



1 (Ne 2:10; 2:19) When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall,

he became angry and was greatly irritated, and he mocked the Jews.

2 (Ezr 4:9-10; Ne 4:10) He spoke before his relatives and the army of Samaria

and said, "What are these feeble Jews doing? Are they fortifying themselves?

Will they make sacrifices? Can they complete this in a day?

Can they revive the burned-up stones out of the rubbish heaps?"

3 (Ne 2:10) Now Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said,

"Even what they are rebuilding, if even a fox climbed it,

that would break down their stone wall."

4 (Ps 79:12; 123:3-4) Hear, O our God, that we are despised. Turn

their reproach back upon their own head, and give them as spoil in a land

of captivity:

5 (Jer 18:23; Ps 109:14) No longer cover their iniquity nor blot out

their sin, which is before You since they have made insults

against the builders.

6 So we rebuilt the wall until all of it was solidified

up to half its height. The people had a passion for the work.

7 (Ne 2:10; 4:1) When Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabians, the Ammonites,

and the Ashdodites heard how the restoration of Jerusalem's walls

was progressing and how the breaches had begun to be sealed,

it made them extremely furious.

8 (Ps 83:3-11) So they all conspired together to fight against Jerusalem

in order to cause it chaos.

9 (Ne 4:11) Nevertheless we prayed to our God, and, because of them,

we set up a watch for them day and night.

10 Judah had said, "The strength of the burden bearers is failing though

there is much rubble. And we ourselves are unable to rebuild the wall."

11 Our adversaries said, "They will neither know nor see until we have

entered in among them and slain them. Indeed, we will stop the work!"

12 When the Jews living near them came, they told us ten times,

"From every place where you turn, they will be against us."

13 (Ne 4:17-18) Therefore I set guards at the lowest positions

along the wall and just inside the wall at the unrepaired areas.

I also stationed the people by families providing them individually

their own swords, spears, and bows.

14 (Nu 14:9; 2Sa 10:12) After I looked around, I stood up

and said to the nobles, the rulers, and the rest of the people,

"Stop being terrified because of them! Remember instead that the Lord

is great and awesome. So fight for each other-and for your sons,

your daughters, your wives, and your houses."

15 (2Sa 17:14) Now when our enemies heard that this had become known to us

and that God had brought their counsel to nothing, then we all returned

to the wall, everyone to his work.

16 After that day, half of my servants did the work while the other half

handled the spears, shields, bows, and body armor. Commanders were appointed

to support every house of Judah.

17 Those rebuilding the wall and those hauling the loads were working

with one hand doing the task, but with the other hand holding the weapon.

18 For the builders, everyone had his sword bound to his side,

even while rebuilding. The trumpet blower worked beside me.

19 I said to the nobles, the rulers, and to the rest of the people,

"The work is vast and over a large area. Since we are spread along the wall

far from each other,

20 (Ex 14:14; Dt 1:30) assemble to us there at the place where you hear

the trumpet sounded. Our God shall fight for us."

21 So we labored in the work with half of them holding spears

from sunrise to the rising of the stars.

22 Likewise at the same time I said to the people,

"Every man and his ­servant must lodge within Jerusalem.

By night, they may be a guard to us; by day, a laborer for the work."

23 So neither I nor my brothers nor my servants nor the men of the guard

who followed me took off our clothes.

Each carried his weapon, even when washing.



[1] But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall,

he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.

[2] And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What

do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice?

will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps

of the rubbish which are burned?

[3] Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they

build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall.

[4] Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their

own head, and give them for a prey in the land of captivity:

[5] And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from

before thee: for they have provoked thee to anger before the builders.

[6] So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half

thereof: for the people had a mind to work.

[7] But it came to pass, that when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians,

and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem

were made up, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very

wroth,

[8] And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against

Jerusalem, and to hinder it.

[9] Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against

them day and night, because of them.

[10] And Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and

there is much rubbish; so that we are not able to build the wall.

[11] And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we

come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease.

[12] And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came, they

said unto us ten times, From all places whence ye shall return unto us they

will be upon you.

[13] Therefore set I in the lower places behind the wall, and on the higher

places, I even set the people after their families with their swords, their

spears, and their bows.

[14] And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers,

and to the rest of the people, Be not ye afraid of them: remember the Lord,

which is great and terrible, and fight for your brethren, your sons, and

your daughters, your wives, and your houses.

[15] And it came to pass, when our enemies heard that it was known unto us,

and God had brought their counsel to nought, that we returned all of us to

the wall, every one unto his work.

[16] And it came to pass from that time forth, that the half of my servants

wrought in the work, and the other half of them held both the spears, the

shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the rulers were behind all

the house of Judah.

[17] They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those

that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with

the other hand held a weapon.

[18] For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so

builded. And he that sounded the trumpet was by me.

[19] And I said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the

people, The work is great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one

far from another.

[20] In what place therefore ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort ye

thither unto us: our God shall fight for us.

[21] So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the

rising of the morning till the stars appeared.

[22] Likewise at the same time said I unto the people, Let every one with

his servant lodge within Jerusalem, that in the night they may be a guard to

us, and labour on the day.

[23] So neither I, nor my brethren, nor my servants, nor the men of the

guard which followed me, none of us put off our clothes, saving that every

one put them off for washing.



Nehemiah 5



Nehemiah Stops Oppression



1 (Isa 5:7) Now there was a great outcry of the people

and their wives against their fellow Jews.

2 Some were saying, "We and our sons and our daughters are many.

Therefore, let us acquire grain so that we may eat and live."

3 Others were saying, "We have mortgaged our fields, vineyards,

and houses so that we might acquire grain because of hunger."

4 (Ezr 4:13; 4:20) Still others were saying, "We have borrowed money

for the king's tribute against the value of our fields and vineyards.

5 (2Ki 4:1; Ge 37:27) Now our flesh is the same as the flesh of

our countrymen. Our children are like their children, but we are

subjugating our sons and our daughters as servants. Indeed,

some of our daughters are in bondage already, and we are powerless to do

anything because our fields and vineyards belong to others."

6 (Ex 11:8) I was very angry when I heard their outcry and these words.

7 (Ex 22:25; Lev 25:36) So I contemplated about this for myself and,

as a result, I rebuked the nobles and officials and said to them,

"Based on the claim of each against his brother, you are exacting usury."

Then I convened a great assembly against them,

8 (Lev 25:47-49) and I said to them, "By whatever means we had,

we purchased our Jewish countrymen who were being sold to the nations.

So, will you once more sell your countrymen so that they might again be

sold to us?" Then they kept silent, because they found nothing to answer.

9 (Lev 25:36; 2Sa 12:14) Also I said, "What you are doing is not good!

Should not you walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach

of the nations, our enemies?

10 Moreover, I, my relatives, and my servants are loaning them money

and grain. So, I urge you, cease from this practice of usury.

11 (Isa 58:6) Please restore to them, even this day, their fields,

their vineyards, their olive groves, and their houses,

along with a hundredth part of the money, the grain, the wine,

and the oil that you had exacted from them."

12 (Ezr 10:5) Then they said, "We will restore it and will require

nothing of them. We will do what you have said."

Then I called the priests and made them swear an oath to keep this promise.

13 (Ac 18:6; 1Ch 16:36) Also I shook out the front of my garment and said,

"Like this, may God shake out every man from his house and from his labor

who does not carry out this promise. Exactly like this, may he be shaken out

and emptied."

And all the congregation said, "Amen," and praised the Lord.

And the people did according to this promise.



Nehemiah's Generosity



14 (Ne 13:6; 2:1) Moreover from the time that I was appointed

to be their governor in the land of Judah

(from the twentieth year even until the 32nd year of King Artaxerxes)

twelve years had passed. And my companions and I had not eaten

the governor's food allotment.

15 (Ne 5:9; Job 31:23) The former governors preceding me had extracted

a heavy burden on the people, because they took from them food and wine,

besides forty shekels

[About 1 pound, or 460 grams.] of silver. Moreover, even their servants

domineered over the people. But I myself never did so, because of the fear

of God.

16 Furthermore, I stayed determined in the work on this wall.

We bought no field, and all my servants were gathered there for the sake

of the work.

17 (1Ki 18:19; 2Sa 9:7) Moreover there were regularly at my table 150 Jews

and officials, besides those who came to us from the nations around us.

18 (1Ki 4:22-23) Daily there were one ox and six choice sheep prepared for me.

Fowls were also prepared for me. Once in ten days all sorts of wine were

supplied in abundance. Yet for all this, I never required the governor's

food allotment because it was a heavy burden on this people.

19 (Ne 13:14; 13:22) Remember me, O my God, for good, according to all

that I have done for this people.



[1] And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their

brethren the Jews.

[2] For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many:

therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live.

[3] Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards,

and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth.

[4] There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's

tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards.

[5] Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their

children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be

servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already:

neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and

vineyards.

[6] And I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words.

[7] Then I consulted with myself, and I rebuked the nobles, and the rulers,

and said unto them, Ye exact usury, every one of his brother. And I set a

great assembly against them.

[8] And I said unto them, We after our ability have redeemed our brethren

the Jews, which were sold unto the heathen; and will ye even sell your

brethren? or shall they be sold unto us? Then held they their peace, and

found nothing to answer.

[9] Also I said, It is not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear

of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies?

[10] I likewise, and my brethren, and my servants, might exact of them money

and corn: I pray you, let us leave off this usury.

[11] Restore, I pray you, to them, even this day, their lands, their

vineyards, their oliveyards, and their houses, also the the hundredth part

of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil, that ye exact of them.

[12] Then said they, We will restore them, and will require nothing of them;

so will we do as thou sayest. Then I called the priests, and took an oath of

them, that they should do according to this promise.

[13] Also I shook my lap, and said, So God shake out every man from his

house, and from his labour, that performeth not this promise, even thus be

he shaken out, and emptied. And all the congregation said, Amen, and praised

the LORD. And the people did according to this promise.

[14] Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the

land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year

of Artaxerxes the king, that is, twelve years, I and my brethren have not

eaten the bread of the governor.

[15] But the former governors that had been before me were chargeable unto

the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of

silver; yea, even their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not

I, because of the fear of God.

[16] Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any

land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work.

[17] Moreover there were at my table an hundred and fifty of the Jews and

rulers, beside those that came unto us from among the heathen that are about

us.

[18] Now that which was prepared for me daily was one ox and six choice

sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all

sorts of wine: yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor,

because the bondage was heavy upon this people.

[19] Think upon me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for

this people.



Nehemiah 6



Nehemiah's Enemies



1 (Ne 2:10; 2:19) When Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arabian,

and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall

and that there was not a gap in it (though at that time I had

not erected the doors on the gates),

2 (1Ch 8:12; Ps 37:12) Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying,

"Come, that we might meet together in one of the villages

in the plain of Ono." But they planned to do evil to me.

3 So I sent messengers to them, saying, "I am doing a great work,

so I am not able to come down.

Why should the work cease while I leave it and come down to you?”

4 Four more times they sent for me like this, but I answered them

the same way.

5 Sanballat sent the same request a fifth time by his servant,

but the letter was open in his hand.

6 (Ne 2:19) In it was written,

"It is reported among the nations, and Geshem confirms it,

that you and the Jews are planning to rebel;

consequently you are rebuilding the wall.

According to these words, you are their king.

7 You have also appointed prophets to preach on your behalf

in Jerusalem, saying, 'There is a king in Judah!' According to these words,

it will now be reported to the king. So come now and let us consult together."

8 (Job 13:4; Ps 52:2) I sent him this response, saying, "Nothing like these

reports that you are saying has occurred. From your own mind,

you are inventing them."

9 (Ps 138:3) Because they all wanted to frighten us, they thought,

"They will pull their hands back from the work." But that would

never be done. So now, O God, strengthen my hands.

10 (Jer 36:5) When I came to the house of Shemaiah the crippled

son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabel, he said, "Let us meet together

at the house of God, inside the temple, and then we can shut

the temple doors. They are coming to kill you! Even tonight,

they could come to kill you!"

11 (Pr 28:1) But I said, "Should a man like me flee? Who is there like me

who would go into the temple to save his life? I would never go!"

12 (Eze 13:22) Then I perceived and saw that God had not sent him,

but that he pronounced the prophecy against me, because Tobiah

and Sanballat had hired him.

13 (Ne 6:6; Jer 20:10) He was hired for this reason: that I might

become fearful, act accordingly, and sin. Then they would have

an evil report by which they could reproach me.

14 (Ne 13:29) Remember, O my God, concerning Tobiah and Sanballat these

deeds of theirs, as well as the prophetess Noadiah and the rest of the

prophets who were trying to frighten me.



The Wall Completed



15 (Ne 4:1-2) The wall was finished on the 25th day of the month Elul,

in 52 days.

16 (Ne 2:10; 4:1) When all our enemies heard it and all the surrounding

nations saw it, they were tremendously humbled. They perceived that,

because of our God, this work had been accomplished.

17 Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah produced numerous letters

in transit to Tobiah. Likewise, the letters of Tobiah came to them,

18 (Ezr 2:5) because so many in Judah were bound by oath to him since

he was the son-in-law of Shekaniah the son of Arah, and his son Jehohanan

had married the daughter of Meshullam the son of Berekiah.

19 Also they reported his good deeds in front of me and reported my words

to him. Tobiah sent letters to frighten me.



[1] Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian,

and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that

there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the

doors upon the gates;)

[2] That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet

together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought

to do me mischief.

[3] And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so

that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and

come down to you?

[4] Yet they sent unto me four times after this sort; and I answered them

after the same manner.

[5] Then sent Sanballat his servant unto me in like manner the fifth time

with an open letter in his hand;

[6] Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith

it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the

wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words.

[7] And thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem,

saying, There is a king in Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king

according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel

together.

[8] Then I sent unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou

sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart.

[9] For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from

the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.

[10] Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son

of Mehetabeel, who was shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the

house of God, within the temple, and let us shut the doors of the temple:

for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay

thee.

[11] And I said, Should such a man as I flee? and who is there, that, being

as I am, would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in.

[12] And, lo, I perceived that God had not sent him; but that he pronounced

this prophecy against me: for Tobiah and Sanballat had hired him.

[13] Therefore was he hired, that I should be afraid, and do so, and sin,

and that they might have matter for an evil report, that they might reproach

me.

[14] My God, think thou upon Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their

works, and on the prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that

would have put me in fear.

[15] So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul,

in fifty and two days.

[16] And it came to pass, that when all our enemies heard thereof, and all

the heathen that were about us saw these things, they were much cast down in

their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was wrought of our God.

[17] Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many letters unto

Tobiah, and the letters of Tobiah came unto them.

[18] For there were many in Judah sworn unto him, because he was the son in

law of Shechaniah the son of Arah; and his son Johanan had taken the

daughter of Meshullam the son of Berechiah.

[19] Also they reported his good deeds before me, and uttered my words to

him. And Tobiah sent letters to put me in fear.



Nehemiah 7



1 (Ne 6:1; 6:15) Once the wall was rebuilt and I had erected the doors,

the gatekeepers, the singers, and the Levites were appointed.

2 (Ne 1:2; 2:8) Over Jerusalem, I put in charge both my brother Hanani

and Hananiah, the palace commander, because each was a faithful man

and feared God more than many.

3 I said to them, "The gates of Jerusalem should not be opened

until the sun is hot. Until guards are posted, the doors should be closed

and bolted. Likewise, appoint guards from Jerusalemss inhabitants-

each at his post, across from his own house."



[1] Now it came to pass, when the wall was built, and I had set up the

doors, and the porters and the singers and the Levites were appointed,

[2] That I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the ruler of the palace,

charge over Jerusalem: for he was a faithful man, and feared God above many.

[3] And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the

sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them:

and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch,

and every one to be over against his house.



2) Our Daily Bread for 16 September 2022

https://odb.org/CA/2022/09/16/hallelujah-3

Entitled "Hallelujah!"



Revelation 11:15-18



The Seventh Trumpet



15 (Rev 12:10; Da 7:14; 7:27) The seventh angel sounded,

and there were loud voices in heaven, saying:

"The kingdoms of the world have become

the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ,

and He shall reign forever and ever.”

16 (Rev 4:4; 4:10) And the twenty-four elders, who sat before God on

their thrones, fell on their faces and worshipped God,

17 (Rev 1:8; 19:6; 1:4) saying:

"We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty,

who is and was and who is to come,

because You have taken Your great power

and begun to reign.

18 (Rev 19:5; 20:12) The nations were angry,

and Your wrath has come,

and the time has come for the dead to be judged,

and to reward Your servants the prophets

and the saints and those who fear Your name,

small and great,

and to destroy those who destroy the earth."



[15] And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven,

saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and

of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.

[16] And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats,

fell upon their faces, and worshipped God,

[17] Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast,

and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast

reigned.

[18] And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the

dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto

thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and them that fear thy name,

small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.



Astonishingly, it took Handel only twenty-four days to write the orchestral

music for the Messiah oratorio-today perhaps the world's most famous musical

composition, one performed thousands of times every year around the world. The

magnificent work reaches its climax nearly two hours after it begins with the

most famous part of the oratorio, the "Hallelujah Chorus."



As the trumpets and timpani announce the beginning of the chorus, voices layer

on top of each other as the choir sings the words of Revelation 11:15: "And he

shall reign for ever and ever." It's a triumphant declaration of the hope of

eternity in heaven with Jesus.



Many of the words in Messiah come from the book of Revelation, the apostle

John's account of a vision he had near the end of his life describing events

culminating with the return of Christ. In Revelation, John returned again and

again to the theme of the return of the resurrected Jesus to earth—when there

would be great rejoicing with the sound of choirs (19:1-8). The world will

rejoice because Jesus will have defeated the powers of darkness and death and

established a kingdom of peace.



One day, all the people of heaven will sing together in a magnificent choir

proclaiming the majesty of Jesus and the blessing of His forever reign (7:9).

Until then, we live, work, pray, and wait in hope.



By: Lisa M. Samra



Reflect & Pray



How does the return of Jesus to reign over the earth provide you with hope

now? What songs encourage you with reminders of the majesty of Jesus?



Come quickly, Jesus, to establish Your reign over the earth.



Learn more about understanding the book of Revelation.




3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 4 -The Blessings of Grace Day 6 - A Reasonable Alternative



Isaiah 1:18



18 (Ps 51:7; Rev 7:14) "Come now, and let us reason together, "

says the Lord.

Though your sins be as scarlet,

they shall be as white as snow;

though they be red like crimson,

they shall be as wool.



18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:

though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;

though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.



"Is Christianity Reasonable?" Linda Wanted to Know. "I've heard all my life

that faith is a crutch, an invention of weak minds to assure them

of some order in the world."

Linda was not alone in her objection; thinking people for generations

have been asking themselves the same question.

God is not intimidated by our questions; in fact, he confronts the issue

head-on in the Scriptures. "Let us reason together," the Lord invites.

Even according to the most basic of human reasoning,

faith is a reasonable alternative , a rational choice for a thinking person.

God indicates in his Word that confession and forgiveness are "reasonable".

"Think!" God says. "You sin, and you know it. You are not even able to be

true to your own principles. You cannot deal with your sin by will power

or effort. But I can deal with it! I can forgive it - and I will"

We cannot come to faith in God through Christ by intellect alone, of course.

Our spirits much reach out in faith, beyond what we can see. But intellect

supports faith; trusting in Christ is an eminently rational decision.

In Deut 30:1-20 , God set before the people a choice: Life or Death, blessing

or cursing. "Choose Life!" he tells them. We have the same choice.

The ultimate decision is thus simplified, the 'rational' alternative becomes

clear. We can choose death, by attempting to control our own destinies ,

or life, by giving ourselves fully into the hand of the Master.



Application



a) Why is the choice to acknowledge my sin and receive forgiveness a

'Rational choice'?



b) What are the alternatives to such a decision?



c) What other aspects of God's word

and work in my life seem 'reasonable' to me?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Luke 16:10-12



10 (Mt 25:21; Lk 19:17) "He who is faithful in what is least is faithful

also in much. And he who is dishonest in the least is dishonest also

in much.

11 So if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth,

who will commit to your trust the true riches?

12 And if you have not been faithful in that which is another man's,

who will give you that which is your own?"



10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much:

and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

11 If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon,

who will commit to your trust the true riches?

12 And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's,

who shall give you that which is your own?



5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:



God's Reconciling Peace



Col 3:12-17



12 (Eph 4:2; Lk 1:78) So embrace, as the elect of God, holy and beloved,

a spirit of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, and longsuffering.

13 (Eph 4:32; Mk 11:25; Eph 4:2) Bear with one another

and forgive one another. If anyone has a quarrel against anyone,

even as Christ forgave you, so you must do.

14 (Eph 4:3; 1Co 13:1-13) And above all these things, embrace love,

which is the bond of perfection.

15 (Jn 14:27; Eph 5:20) Let the peace of God,

to which also you are called in one body,

rule in your hearts. And be thankful.

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.

17 (1Co 10:31; Eph 5:20 ) And whatever you do in word or deed,

do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,

giving thanks to God the Father through Him.



12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies,

kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

13 forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have

a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

14 And above all these things put on charity,

which is the bond of perfectness.

15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye

are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

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.

17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,

giving thanks to God and the Father by him.





Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)



Nova Scotia



Total population 942700

Muslim population (est.) 14629



With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is

a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,

a harvest field in itself.

Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia

with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas

(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques

in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.



Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of

newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration

has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic

is the second most spoken language in Halifax.



while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000

in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population

somewhere between 25000 to 30000.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -



Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



16th Day of the Month



a) Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false

idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences

( John 16:7-8



7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away.

For if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you.

But if I go, I will send Him to you.

8 When He comes, He will convict the world of sin

and of righteousness and of judgment"



7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away:

for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you;

but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,

and of righteousness, and of judgment:



)



b) Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly

of denying God's supremacy



(



John 14:6



6 Jesus said to him,

"I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one comes to the Father except through Me."



6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.



Rom 3:19-20



19 Now we know that whatever the law says,

it says to those who are under the law,

so that every mouth may be silenced,

and all the world may become accountable to God.

20 Therefore by the works of the law

no flesh will be justified in His sight,

for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.



19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are

under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become

guilty before God.

20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified

in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.



2 Cor 5:10



10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,

that each one may receive his recompense in the body,

according to what he has done,

whether it was good or bad.



10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one

may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done,

whether it be good or bad.



2 Cor 10:5



5 casting down imaginations and every high thing

that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,

bringing every thought into

captivity to the obedience of Christ,



5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against

the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought

to the obedience of Christ;



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to seek His favour in your rebuilding.



Pray to the Lord: "Come quickly, Jesus, to establish Your reign over

the earth."



Pray to the Lord and confess your sins to Lord and give our your sins to Him.



Pray to the Lord and pray to be faithful stewards in all you do.



Pray to the Lord and pray that The Word will dwell in you richly.



Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations



- in and around Halifax and other cities



- on university campuses



- for new workers among Muslims



- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach

to Muslims in their areas.



- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend

to share Jesus with and disciple them



- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their

new faith in Jesus with other Muslims



Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you

- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving

Christ among Muslim people -

Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."

- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims

throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!



Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false

idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences



Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly

of denying God's supremacy



Pray for the strengthening of churches in Lebanon as they provide

ministry amid economic and civil disorder.



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.