Day 313 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey - 9 November 2022 reflections
Day 313, 9 November 2022
1)Acts 10
Acts 11
Acts 12:1-5
Acts 10
Peter and Cornelius
1 (Ac 27:1; 8:40) In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, the centurion
[Commander with the rank of captain over 100 soldiers.] of a band of soldiers
called the Italian Detachment,
2 (Ac 10:22; 13:16; 13:26) a devout man and one who feared God with
all his household, who gave many alms to the people and continually
prayed to God.
3 (Ac 3:1; 5:19) About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision
an angel of God coming in and saying to him, "Cornelius."
4 (Heb 6:10; Ps 141:2) When he looked at him he was afraid, and said,
"What is it, Lord?"
He said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have come up as a memorial
before God.
5 Now send men to Joppa, and bring back Simon whose surname is Peter.
6 (Ac 9:43) He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.
He will tell you what you must do."
7 When the angel who spoke to him had departed,
Cornelius called two of his household servants
and a devout soldier from among those who continually waited on him.
8 When he had explained everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.
9 (Ps 55:17; Zep 1:5) The next day as they went on their journey a
nd drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray
about the sixth hour.
10 (Ac 22:17) He became very hungry and desired to eat.
But while they prepared a meal, he fell into a trance
11 (Jn 1:51) and saw heaven opened, and a vessel like a great sheet,
tied at the four corners, descending to him, and let down to the earth.
12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth and wild beasts
and reptiles and birds of the air.
13 Then a voice came to him, "Rise, Peter; kill and eat."
14 (Eze 4:14; Lev 20:25) Peter said, "Not at all, Lord.
For I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean."
15 (Mt 15:11; 1Co 10:25) The voice spoke to him a second time:
"What God has cleansed, do not call common."
16 This happened three times. And again the vessel was taken up into heaven.
[1] There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of
the band called the Italian band,
[2] A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave
much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.
[3] He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an
angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.
[4] And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it,
Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a
memorial before God.
[5] And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is
Peter:
[6] He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea
side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.
[7] And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he
called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that
waited on him continually;
[8] And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to
Joppa.
[9] On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the
city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:
[10] And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they
made ready, he fell into a trance,
[11] And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as
it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the
earth:
[12] Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild
beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
[13] And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.
[14] But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is
common or unclean.
[15] And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath
cleansed, that call not thou common.
[16] This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.
[ his vision is about Peter accepting Gentiles as Christ followers and
not about unclean foods being clean]
17 Now while Peter wondered what this vision which he had seen might mean,
the men who were sent by Cornelius had inquired for Simon's house
and stood at the gate,
18 and called and asked whether Simon, who was surnamed Peter,
was lodging there.
19 (Ac 8:29) While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him,
"Three men are looking for you.
20 (Ac 15:7-9) So rise and go down, and go with them, doubting nothing.
For I have sent them."
21 Then Peter went down to the men who were sent to him by Cornelius
and said, "Here I am, the one you are seeking. Why have you come?"
22 (Ac 11:14; 10:2) They said, "Cornelius, a centurion, a man who
is righteous and fears God and is of good report throughout the nation
of the Jews, was directed by a holy angel to summon you to his house
to hear your words."
23 (Ac 10:45; 11:12) Then he invited them in and gave them lodging.
The next day Peter went with them,
and some brothers from Joppa accompanied him.
24 And the next day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was waiting for them
and had called together his relatives and close friends.
25 (Mt 8:2; Da 2:46) As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him
and fell down at his feet and worshipped him.
26 (Rev 19:10) But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up. I myself am a man."
27 (Ac 10:24) As he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come
together.
28 (Jn 4:9; 18:28) He said to them, "You know how unlawful it is for a Jew
to visit or approach a foreigner. But God has shown me not to call any man
common or unclean.
29 So when I was sent for, I came without question.
Therefore I ask why you have sent for me."
30 (Ac 10:3; 1:10) Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until
this hour. At the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and suddenly a man
stood before me in bright clothing,
31 (Ac 10:4) and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard,
and your alms are remembered before God.
32 Therefore send to Joppa for Simon, whose surname is Peter.
He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.
When he comes, he will speak to you.'
33 So immediately I sent for you, and you have done well to come.
Now therefore we are all here, present before God,
to hear everything the Lord has commanded you."
[17] Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen
should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry
for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,
[18] And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were
lodged there.
[19] While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold,
three men seek thee.
[20] Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing:
for I have sent them.
[21] Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from
Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause
wherefore ye are come?
[22] And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that
feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned
from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words
of thee.
[23] Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went
away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.
[24] And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited
for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
[25] And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his
feet, and worshipped him.
[26] But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.
[27] And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come
together.
[28] And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a
man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but
God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.
[29] Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent
for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?
[30] And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at
the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in
bright clothing,
[31] And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in
remembrance in the sight of God.
[32] Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter;
he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when
he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
[33] Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou
art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all
things that are commanded thee of God.
Peter Speaks in Cornelius' House
34 (Dt 10:17; 2Ch 19:7) Then Peter began to speak, saying,
"Truthfully, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.
35 (Ac 10:2; 15:9) But in every nation he who fears Him
and works righteousness is accepted by Him.
36 (Mt 28:18; Ac 2:36) The word which He sent to the children of Israel,
preaching peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all,
37 the word, which you know, that was proclaimed throughout all Judea,
beginning from Galilee after the baptism which John preached:
38 (Lk 4:18; Jn 3:2) how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit
and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed
by the devil, for God was with Him.
39 (Lk 24:48; Ac 10:41) "We are witnesses of all that He did both in the land
of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree.
40 (Ac 2:24) But God raised Him on the third day and presented Him publicly,
41 (Jn 14:22; Ac 10:39) not to all the people,
but to witnesses previously chosen by God,
to us who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead.
42 (Ac 17:31; 2Ti 4:1) He commanded us to preach to the people
and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be the
Judge of the living and the dead.
43 (Ac 15:9; Isa 53:11) To Him all the prophets bear witness that whoever
believes in Him will receive remission of sins through His name."
[34] Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God
is no respecter of persons:
[35] But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is
accepted with him.
[36] The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by
Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)
[37] That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea,
and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
[38] How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power:
who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil;
for God was with him.
[39] And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the
Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
[40] Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
[41] Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to
us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
[42] And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it
is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
[43] To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever
believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit
44 (Ac 11:15; 15:8) While Peter was still speaking these words,
the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the word.
45 (Ac 10:23; 2:38) All the believers of the circumcision who had come
with Peter were astonished, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been
poured out even on the Gentiles.
46 (Ac 2:4; 19:6) For they heard them speaking in other tongues
and magnifying God.
Then Peter continued,
47 (Ac 8:36) "Can anyone forbid water for baptizing these,
who have received the Holy Spirit as we have?"
48 (Ac 2:38; 8:16; 1Co 1:13-17) So he commanded them to be baptized
in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.
[44] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them
which heard the word.
[45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as
came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift
of the Holy Ghost.
[46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered
Peter,
[47] Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have
received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
[48] And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then
prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 11
Peter's Report to the Church in Jerusalem
1 The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles
also had received the word of God.
2 (Ac 10:45) So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, those who were circumcised
disputed with him,
3 (Ac 10:28; Lk 15:2) saying, "You went in and ate with uncircumcised men!"
4 (Lk 1:3) Peter began explaining it to them in order, saying,
5 (Ac 10:9-32) "I was in the city of Joppa praying. And in a trance
I saw a vision: A vessel like a great sheet was descending, let down
from heaven by four corners, and it came to me.
6 I considered what I had observed and saw four-footed creatures
and wild beasts and reptiles and birds of the air.
7 Then I heard a voice saying to me, 'Rise, Peter; kill and eat.'
8 (Ro 14:14) "I said, 'Not at all, Lord. For nothing common
or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.'
9 "The voice answered from heaven a second time,
'What God has cleansed, do not call common.'
10 This happened three times. And again everything was taken up into heaven.
11 "And immediately three men sent from Caesarea to me came to the house
where I was.
12 (Ac 8:29; 10:23) The Spirit told me to go with them without hesitation.
Moreover these six brothers came with me, and we entered the man's house.
13 He told us how he had seen an angel in his house, who stood and said
to him, 'Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter.
14 (Ac 16:15; 10:22) He will speak words to you by which you
and all your household will be saved.'
15 "As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them,
as He fell on us at the beginning.
16 (Ac 1:5; Mt 3:11) Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said,
'John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptised
with the Holy Spirit.' (Am 9:11; Jer 12:15.)
17 (Ac 10:47) If then God gave them the same gift as He gave us
when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ,
who was I to be able to hinder God?"
18 (Ro 10:12-13; 2Co 7:10) When they heard these things, they were silent.
And they glorified God, saying, "Then God has granted to the Gentiles
also repentance unto life."
[1] And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the
Gentiles had also received the word of God.
[2] And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the
circumcision contended with him,
[3] Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
[4] But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by
order unto them, saying,
[5] I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A
certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven
by four corners; and it came even to me:
[6] Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw
fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and
fowls of the air.
[7] And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.
[8] But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time
entered into my mouth.
[9] But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed,
that call not thou common.
[10] And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.
[11] And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the
house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.
[12] And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these
six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:
[13] And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and
said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is
Peter;
[14] Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be
saved.
[15] And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the
beginning.
[16] Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed
baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
[17] Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who
believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?
[18] When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God,
saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
The Church in Antioch
19 (Ac 4:36; 15:3) Now those who were scattered by the persecution
that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch,
preaching the word to no one except Jews.
20 (Mt 27:32; Ac 13:1) Some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene,
who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists,
preaching the Lord Jesus.
21 (Lk 1:66; Ac 2:47) The hand of the Lord was with them,
and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.
22 News of these things came to the ears of the church which was
in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.
23 (Ac 13:43; 14:22) When he arrived and saw the grace of God,
he rejoiced and exhorted them all to remain with the Lord with a loyal heart.
24 (Ac 5:14; 11:21) For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit
and of faith. And many people were added to the Lord.
25 (Ac 9:11; 9:30) Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul.
26 (Ac 26:28; 1Pe 4:16) When he had found him, he brought him to Antioch.
For a whole year they met with the church and taught a considerable crowd.
And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
27 (Ac 13:1; 1Co 12:28; Ac 2:17) In these days prophets came down
from Jerusalem to Antioch.
28 (Ac 21:10; 18:2) One of them, named Agabus, stood up and prophesied
by the Spirit that there would be a great famine throughout all the world,
which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
29 Then every disciple, according to his ability, determined to send relief
to the brothers who lived in Judea.
30 (Ac 12:25; 14:23) Indeed they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands
of Barnabas and Saul.
[19] Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose
about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch,
preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
[20] And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were
come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.
[21] And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed,
and turned unto the Lord.
[22] Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was
in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as
Antioch.
[23] Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and
exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the
Lord.
[24] For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and
much people was added unto the Lord.
[25] Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
[26] And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to
pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and
taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in
Antioch.
[27] And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.
[28] And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the
spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which
came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
[29] Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to
send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:
[30] Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas
and Saul.
Acts 12:1-5
Acts 12
James Killed and Peter Imprisoned
1 About that time King Herod extended his hands
to harm certain ones from the church.
2 (Mt 20:23; Heb 11:37) He killed James the brother of John with the sword.
3 (Ex 23:15; Ac 24:27) Seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further
to arrest Peter also. This happened during the Days of Unleavened Bread.
4 (Lk 21:12) When he had seized him, he put him in prison and handed him
over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending to bring him
before the people after the Passover.
5 (2Co 1:11) So Peter was kept in prison. But the church prayed to God
without ceasing for him.
[1] Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex
certain of the church.
[2] And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.
[3] And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take
Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)
[4] And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him
to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring
him forth to the people.
[5] Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing
of the church unto God for him.
2) Our Daily Bread for 9 November 2022
Entitled "Wise or Unwise?"
Ephesians 5:15-17
15 (Col 4:5) See then that you walk carefully, not as fools, but as wise men,
16 (Eph 6:13; Col 4:5) making the most of the time because the days are evil.
17 (Ro 12:2; Col 1:9) Therefore do not be unwise, but understand
what the will of the Lord is.
[15] See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
[16] Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
[17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord
is.
When I was ten, I brought home a cassette tape from a friend at youth group
that contained the music of a contemporary Christian band. My dad, who had
been raised in a Hindu home but had received salvation in Jesus, didn't
approve. He only wanted worship music played in our home. I explained it was a
Christian band, but that didn't change his mind. After a while, he suggested
that I listen to the songs for a week and then decide if they brought me
closer to God or pushed me further away from Him. There was some helpful
wisdom in that advice.
There are things in life that are clearly right or wrong, but many times we
wrestle with disputable matters (Romans 14:1-19). In deciding what to do, we
can seek the wisdom found in Scripture. Paul encouraged the Ephesian believers
to "be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise" (Ephesians
5:15). Like a good parent, Paul knew that he couldn't possibly be there or
give instructions for every situation. If they were going to "[make] the most
of every opportunity, because the days are evil," they were going to have to
discern for themselves and "understand what the Lord's will is" (vv. 16-17).
A life of wisdom is an invitation to pursue discernment and good decisions
as God guides us even when we wrestle with what might be disputable.
By: Glenn Packiam
Reflect & Pray
How can you determine what will be wise or foolish as you make decisions?
How can you seek God's guidance?
Dear Jesus, cultivate a heart of wisdom in me.
Enable me to live my life in a way that will always draw me closer to You.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 4 - freedom from Fear
Psalms 27:1
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?
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?
Marcy was afraid of the dark. As a child she slept with a nightlight on,
and even she matured, she still had a fear of dark places.
When she was at home alone, she kept all the lights on,
and a small lamp at her bedside glowed through the night.
The psalmist David reflects that common fear of darkness when he says
"The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?"
David does not say, "The Lord brings light," but "The Lord is my light".
God is the source of understanding and security in our lives.
He is the One who can expose and deal with our fears.
When we are afraid - afraid of losing a job or a loved one,
afraid of making mistakes, afraid of being hurt, afraid of what others may
say about us - we can turn to the Lord who can handle our fears.
He is a "stronghold", a fortress of protection around us,
and in him we are safe.
Often we turn to other places for our security - to the bank account,
to a spouse or loved one, to the approval of the world.
We mistakenly think that these sources can provide a foundation of defence
against uncertainty of life. But when we find that people disappoint us, money
loses its value, and the praise of others is fleeting,
we must turn again to the true source of security, God alone.
Application
a) What sources of security have I trusted in besides God?
What was the result of that trust?
b) In what ways have I depended upon God for my security?
c) What spiritual truths can I see now that I could not see
when I lived in darkness?
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
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
Newfoundland & Labrador
Total population 527000
Muslim population (est.) 2065
As of Autumn 2014, St. John's does not have a local CNMM network. Pray with us
for God's people to come together in prayer
and cooperative efforts to reach Muslims with the Good News.
St. John's has one mosque and 2 more musallas , or prayer locations, which
may grow into mosques of their own. The mosque is called Masjid an Noor,
The Mosque of the Light, and mosque historical documents record a trip in 1986
to Saudi Arabia to raise funds for the land purchase and construction costs.
A small number of Muslim families had come prior to 1964, but moved on to
other places after a short time. After this date, a small community began
to remain and grow , reaching about 25 families in the 1980s. A number
of international students also join the community annually
ranging from 25 to 60.
In 2014 the mosque website reports the community is made up of some 200
families and many university students attending Memorial University. A
small number of native Newfoundlanders have also converted to the Islamic
faith, one saying of this religion in Newfoundland, "Islam is a growing face".
With the growth of the community, the current challenge is lack of space
in the mosque, which they are now looking at expanding.
Pray for
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
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
9th Day of the Month
a) Pray a prayer of thanksgiving throughout
the day for God's unfailing love, Mercy, compassion,
faithfulness and provision.
(
Ps 100
A Psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth!
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Serve the Lord with gladness;
come before His presence with singing.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Know that the Lord, He is God;
it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
and into His courts with praise;
be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) For the Lord is good; His mercy endures forever,
and His faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 100
A Psalm of praise.
1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2 Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the LORD he is God:
It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise:
Be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;
And his truth endureth to all generations.
)
b) Pray that the Lord will lead the Church in finding ways
to wisely and effectively respond to pressing social issues.
(
1 Chr 12:32
32 (Est 1:13) From the sons of Issachar,
those having understanding of times
and what Israel should do: two hundred of their captains
with all their brothers at their command.
32 And of the children of Issachar,
which were men that had understanding of the times,
to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred;
and all their brethren were at their commandment
)
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to accept all into the church as commanded by Christ.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, cultivate a heart of wisdom in me.
Enable me to live my life in a way that will always draw me closer to You."
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for being the absolute source of
security.
Pray to the Lord and pray to seek Him in full to prosper.
Pray to the Lord and pray to put full trust in Him.
Pray for in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
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 a prayer of thanksgiving throughout
the day for God's unfailing love, Mercy, compassion,
faithfulness and provision.
Pray that the Lord will lead the Church in finding ways
to wisely and effectively respond to pressing social issues.
Pray for God to prepare the hearts pf a new believer's family members in
the Philippines so they will be receptive to 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.
1)Acts 10
Acts 11
Acts 12:1-5
Acts 10
Peter and Cornelius
1 (Ac 27:1; 8:40) In Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, the centurion
[Commander with the rank of captain over 100 soldiers.] of a band of soldiers
called the Italian Detachment,
2 (Ac 10:22; 13:16; 13:26) a devout man and one who feared God with
all his household, who gave many alms to the people and continually
prayed to God.
3 (Ac 3:1; 5:19) About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision
an angel of God coming in and saying to him, "Cornelius."
4 (Heb 6:10; Ps 141:2) When he looked at him he was afraid, and said,
"What is it, Lord?"
He said to him, "Your prayers and your alms have come up as a memorial
before God.
5 Now send men to Joppa, and bring back Simon whose surname is Peter.
6 (Ac 9:43) He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea.
He will tell you what you must do."
7 When the angel who spoke to him had departed,
Cornelius called two of his household servants
and a devout soldier from among those who continually waited on him.
8 When he had explained everything to them, he sent them to Joppa.
9 (Ps 55:17; Zep 1:5) The next day as they went on their journey a
nd drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray
about the sixth hour.
10 (Ac 22:17) He became very hungry and desired to eat.
But while they prepared a meal, he fell into a trance
11 (Jn 1:51) and saw heaven opened, and a vessel like a great sheet,
tied at the four corners, descending to him, and let down to the earth.
12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth and wild beasts
and reptiles and birds of the air.
13 Then a voice came to him, "Rise, Peter; kill and eat."
14 (Eze 4:14; Lev 20:25) Peter said, "Not at all, Lord.
For I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean."
15 (Mt 15:11; 1Co 10:25) The voice spoke to him a second time:
"What God has cleansed, do not call common."
16 This happened three times. And again the vessel was taken up into heaven.
[1] There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of
the band called the Italian band,
[2] A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave
much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway.
[3] He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an
angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.
[4] And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it,
Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a
memorial before God.
[5] And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is
Peter:
[6] He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea
side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do.
[7] And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he
called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that
waited on him continually;
[8] And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to
Joppa.
[9] On the morrow, as they went on their journey, and drew nigh unto the
city, Peter went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour:
[10] And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they
made ready, he fell into a trance,
[11] And saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as
it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the
earth:
[12] Wherein were all manner of fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild
beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
[13] And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat.
[14] But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is
common or unclean.
[15] And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath
cleansed, that call not thou common.
[16] This was done thrice: and the vessel was received up again into heaven.
[ his vision is about Peter accepting Gentiles as Christ followers and
not about unclean foods being clean]
17 Now while Peter wondered what this vision which he had seen might mean,
the men who were sent by Cornelius had inquired for Simon's house
and stood at the gate,
18 and called and asked whether Simon, who was surnamed Peter,
was lodging there.
19 (Ac 8:29) While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him,
"Three men are looking for you.
20 (Ac 15:7-9) So rise and go down, and go with them, doubting nothing.
For I have sent them."
21 Then Peter went down to the men who were sent to him by Cornelius
and said, "Here I am, the one you are seeking. Why have you come?"
22 (Ac 11:14; 10:2) They said, "Cornelius, a centurion, a man who
is righteous and fears God and is of good report throughout the nation
of the Jews, was directed by a holy angel to summon you to his house
to hear your words."
23 (Ac 10:45; 11:12) Then he invited them in and gave them lodging.
The next day Peter went with them,
and some brothers from Joppa accompanied him.
24 And the next day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was waiting for them
and had called together his relatives and close friends.
25 (Mt 8:2; Da 2:46) As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him
and fell down at his feet and worshipped him.
26 (Rev 19:10) But Peter lifted him up, saying, "Stand up. I myself am a man."
27 (Ac 10:24) As he talked with him, he went in and found many who had come
together.
28 (Jn 4:9; 18:28) He said to them, "You know how unlawful it is for a Jew
to visit or approach a foreigner. But God has shown me not to call any man
common or unclean.
29 So when I was sent for, I came without question.
Therefore I ask why you have sent for me."
30 (Ac 10:3; 1:10) Cornelius said, "Four days ago I was fasting until
this hour. At the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and suddenly a man
stood before me in bright clothing,
31 (Ac 10:4) and said, 'Cornelius, your prayer has been heard,
and your alms are remembered before God.
32 Therefore send to Joppa for Simon, whose surname is Peter.
He is lodging in the house of Simon, a tanner, by the sea.
When he comes, he will speak to you.'
33 So immediately I sent for you, and you have done well to come.
Now therefore we are all here, present before God,
to hear everything the Lord has commanded you."
[17] Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen
should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry
for Simon's house, and stood before the gate,
[18] And called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were
lodged there.
[19] While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him, Behold,
three men seek thee.
[20] Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing:
for I have sent them.
[21] Then Peter went down to the men which were sent unto him from
Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek: what is the cause
wherefore ye are come?
[22] And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that
feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned
from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words
of thee.
[23] Then called he them in, and lodged them. And on the morrow Peter went
away with them, and certain brethren from Joppa accompanied him.
[24] And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited
for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
[25] And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his
feet, and worshipped him.
[26] But Peter took him up, saying, Stand up; I myself also am a man.
[27] And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come
together.
[28] And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a
man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but
God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean.
[29] Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent
for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me?
[30] And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at
the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in
bright clothing,
[31] And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in
remembrance in the sight of God.
[32] Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter;
he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when
he cometh, shall speak unto thee.
[33] Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou
art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all
things that are commanded thee of God.
Peter Speaks in Cornelius' House
34 (Dt 10:17; 2Ch 19:7) Then Peter began to speak, saying,
"Truthfully, I perceive that God is no respecter of persons.
35 (Ac 10:2; 15:9) But in every nation he who fears Him
and works righteousness is accepted by Him.
36 (Mt 28:18; Ac 2:36) The word which He sent to the children of Israel,
preaching peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all,
37 the word, which you know, that was proclaimed throughout all Judea,
beginning from Galilee after the baptism which John preached:
38 (Lk 4:18; Jn 3:2) how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit
and with power, who went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed
by the devil, for God was with Him.
39 (Lk 24:48; Ac 10:41) "We are witnesses of all that He did both in the land
of the Jews and in Jerusalem, whom they killed by hanging on a tree.
40 (Ac 2:24) But God raised Him on the third day and presented Him publicly,
41 (Jn 14:22; Ac 10:39) not to all the people,
but to witnesses previously chosen by God,
to us who ate and drank with Him after He rose from the dead.
42 (Ac 17:31; 2Ti 4:1) He commanded us to preach to the people
and to testify that it is He who was ordained by God to be the
Judge of the living and the dead.
43 (Ac 15:9; Isa 53:11) To Him all the prophets bear witness that whoever
believes in Him will receive remission of sins through His name."
[34] Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God
is no respecter of persons:
[35] But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is
accepted with him.
[36] The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by
Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)
[37] That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea,
and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
[38] How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power:
who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil;
for God was with him.
[39] And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the
Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
[40] Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
[41] Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to
us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
[42] And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it
is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
[43] To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever
believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
Gentiles Receive the Holy Spirit
44 (Ac 11:15; 15:8) While Peter was still speaking these words,
the Holy Spirit fell on all those who heard the word.
45 (Ac 10:23; 2:38) All the believers of the circumcision who had come
with Peter were astonished, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been
poured out even on the Gentiles.
46 (Ac 2:4; 19:6) For they heard them speaking in other tongues
and magnifying God.
Then Peter continued,
47 (Ac 8:36) "Can anyone forbid water for baptizing these,
who have received the Holy Spirit as we have?"
48 (Ac 2:38; 8:16; 1Co 1:13-17) So he commanded them to be baptized
in the name of the Lord. Then they asked him to stay a few days.
[44] While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them
which heard the word.
[45] And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as
came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift
of the Holy Ghost.
[46] For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered
Peter,
[47] Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have
received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
[48] And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then
prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Acts 11
Peter's Report to the Church in Jerusalem
1 The apostles and the brothers throughout Judea heard that the Gentiles
also had received the word of God.
2 (Ac 10:45) So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, those who were circumcised
disputed with him,
3 (Ac 10:28; Lk 15:2) saying, "You went in and ate with uncircumcised men!"
4 (Lk 1:3) Peter began explaining it to them in order, saying,
5 (Ac 10:9-32) "I was in the city of Joppa praying. And in a trance
I saw a vision: A vessel like a great sheet was descending, let down
from heaven by four corners, and it came to me.
6 I considered what I had observed and saw four-footed creatures
and wild beasts and reptiles and birds of the air.
7 Then I heard a voice saying to me, 'Rise, Peter; kill and eat.'
8 (Ro 14:14) "I said, 'Not at all, Lord. For nothing common
or unclean has at any time entered my mouth.'
9 "The voice answered from heaven a second time,
'What God has cleansed, do not call common.'
10 This happened three times. And again everything was taken up into heaven.
11 "And immediately three men sent from Caesarea to me came to the house
where I was.
12 (Ac 8:29; 10:23) The Spirit told me to go with them without hesitation.
Moreover these six brothers came with me, and we entered the man's house.
13 He told us how he had seen an angel in his house, who stood and said
to him, 'Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon whose surname is Peter.
14 (Ac 16:15; 10:22) He will speak words to you by which you
and all your household will be saved.'
15 "As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them,
as He fell on us at the beginning.
16 (Ac 1:5; Mt 3:11) Then I remembered the word of the Lord, how He said,
'John indeed baptized with water, but you shall be baptised
with the Holy Spirit.' (Am 9:11; Jer 12:15.)
17 (Ac 10:47) If then God gave them the same gift as He gave us
when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ,
who was I to be able to hinder God?"
18 (Ro 10:12-13; 2Co 7:10) When they heard these things, they were silent.
And they glorified God, saying, "Then God has granted to the Gentiles
also repentance unto life."
[1] And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the
Gentiles had also received the word of God.
[2] And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the
circumcision contended with him,
[3] Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
[4] But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by
order unto them, saying,
[5] I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A
certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven
by four corners; and it came even to me:
[6] Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw
fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and
fowls of the air.
[7] And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.
[8] But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time
entered into my mouth.
[9] But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed,
that call not thou common.
[10] And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.
[11] And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the
house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.
[12] And the spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these
six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:
[13] And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and
said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is
Peter;
[14] Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be
saved.
[15] And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the
beginning.
[16] Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed
baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
[17] Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who
believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?
[18] When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God,
saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
The Church in Antioch
19 (Ac 4:36; 15:3) Now those who were scattered by the persecution
that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch,
preaching the word to no one except Jews.
20 (Mt 27:32; Ac 13:1) Some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene,
who, when they had come to Antioch, spoke to the Hellenists,
preaching the Lord Jesus.
21 (Lk 1:66; Ac 2:47) The hand of the Lord was with them,
and a great number believed and turned to the Lord.
22 News of these things came to the ears of the church which was
in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.
23 (Ac 13:43; 14:22) When he arrived and saw the grace of God,
he rejoiced and exhorted them all to remain with the Lord with a loyal heart.
24 (Ac 5:14; 11:21) For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit
and of faith. And many people were added to the Lord.
25 (Ac 9:11; 9:30) Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul.
26 (Ac 26:28; 1Pe 4:16) When he had found him, he brought him to Antioch.
For a whole year they met with the church and taught a considerable crowd.
And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.
27 (Ac 13:1; 1Co 12:28; Ac 2:17) In these days prophets came down
from Jerusalem to Antioch.
28 (Ac 21:10; 18:2) One of them, named Agabus, stood up and prophesied
by the Spirit that there would be a great famine throughout all the world,
which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
29 Then every disciple, according to his ability, determined to send relief
to the brothers who lived in Judea.
30 (Ac 12:25; 14:23) Indeed they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands
of Barnabas and Saul.
[19] Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose
about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch,
preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.
[20] And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were
come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.
[21] And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed,
and turned unto the Lord.
[22] Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was
in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as
Antioch.
[23] Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and
exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the
Lord.
[24] For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and
much people was added unto the Lord.
[25] Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:
[26] And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to
pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and
taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in
Antioch.
[27] And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.
[28] And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the
spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which
came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.
[29] Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to
send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:
[30] Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas
and Saul.
Acts 12:1-5
Acts 12
James Killed and Peter Imprisoned
1 About that time King Herod extended his hands
to harm certain ones from the church.
2 (Mt 20:23; Heb 11:37) He killed James the brother of John with the sword.
3 (Ex 23:15; Ac 24:27) Seeing that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further
to arrest Peter also. This happened during the Days of Unleavened Bread.
4 (Lk 21:12) When he had seized him, he put him in prison and handed him
over to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending to bring him
before the people after the Passover.
5 (2Co 1:11) So Peter was kept in prison. But the church prayed to God
without ceasing for him.
[1] Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex
certain of the church.
[2] And he killed James the brother of John with the sword.
[3] And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take
Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.)
[4] And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him
to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring
him forth to the people.
[5] Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing
of the church unto God for him.
2) Our Daily Bread for 9 November 2022
Entitled "Wise or Unwise?"
Ephesians 5:15-17
15 (Col 4:5) See then that you walk carefully, not as fools, but as wise men,
16 (Eph 6:13; Col 4:5) making the most of the time because the days are evil.
17 (Ro 12:2; Col 1:9) Therefore do not be unwise, but understand
what the will of the Lord is.
[15] See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
[16] Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
[17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord
is.
When I was ten, I brought home a cassette tape from a friend at youth group
that contained the music of a contemporary Christian band. My dad, who had
been raised in a Hindu home but had received salvation in Jesus, didn't
approve. He only wanted worship music played in our home. I explained it was a
Christian band, but that didn't change his mind. After a while, he suggested
that I listen to the songs for a week and then decide if they brought me
closer to God or pushed me further away from Him. There was some helpful
wisdom in that advice.
There are things in life that are clearly right or wrong, but many times we
wrestle with disputable matters (Romans 14:1-19). In deciding what to do, we
can seek the wisdom found in Scripture. Paul encouraged the Ephesian believers
to "be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise" (Ephesians
5:15). Like a good parent, Paul knew that he couldn't possibly be there or
give instructions for every situation. If they were going to "[make] the most
of every opportunity, because the days are evil," they were going to have to
discern for themselves and "understand what the Lord's will is" (vv. 16-17).
A life of wisdom is an invitation to pursue discernment and good decisions
as God guides us even when we wrestle with what might be disputable.
By: Glenn Packiam
Reflect & Pray
How can you determine what will be wise or foolish as you make decisions?
How can you seek God's guidance?
Dear Jesus, cultivate a heart of wisdom in me.
Enable me to live my life in a way that will always draw me closer to You.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 4 - freedom from Fear
Psalms 27:1
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?
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?
Marcy was afraid of the dark. As a child she slept with a nightlight on,
and even she matured, she still had a fear of dark places.
When she was at home alone, she kept all the lights on,
and a small lamp at her bedside glowed through the night.
The psalmist David reflects that common fear of darkness when he says
"The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?"
David does not say, "The Lord brings light," but "The Lord is my light".
God is the source of understanding and security in our lives.
He is the One who can expose and deal with our fears.
When we are afraid - afraid of losing a job or a loved one,
afraid of making mistakes, afraid of being hurt, afraid of what others may
say about us - we can turn to the Lord who can handle our fears.
He is a "stronghold", a fortress of protection around us,
and in him we are safe.
Often we turn to other places for our security - to the bank account,
to a spouse or loved one, to the approval of the world.
We mistakenly think that these sources can provide a foundation of defence
against uncertainty of life. But when we find that people disappoint us, money
loses its value, and the praise of others is fleeting,
we must turn again to the true source of security, God alone.
Application
a) What sources of security have I trusted in besides God?
What was the result of that trust?
b) In what ways have I depended upon God for my security?
c) What spiritual truths can I see now that I could not see
when I lived in darkness?
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
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2021 edition?)
Newfoundland & Labrador
Total population 527000
Muslim population (est.) 2065
As of Autumn 2014, St. John's does not have a local CNMM network. Pray with us
for God's people to come together in prayer
and cooperative efforts to reach Muslims with the Good News.
St. John's has one mosque and 2 more musallas , or prayer locations, which
may grow into mosques of their own. The mosque is called Masjid an Noor,
The Mosque of the Light, and mosque historical documents record a trip in 1986
to Saudi Arabia to raise funds for the land purchase and construction costs.
A small number of Muslim families had come prior to 1964, but moved on to
other places after a short time. After this date, a small community began
to remain and grow , reaching about 25 families in the 1980s. A number
of international students also join the community annually
ranging from 25 to 60.
In 2014 the mosque website reports the community is made up of some 200
families and many university students attending Memorial University. A
small number of native Newfoundlanders have also converted to the Islamic
faith, one saying of this religion in Newfoundland, "Islam is a growing face".
With the growth of the community, the current challenge is lack of space
in the mosque, which they are now looking at expanding.
Pray for
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
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
9th Day of the Month
a) Pray a prayer of thanksgiving throughout
the day for God's unfailing love, Mercy, compassion,
faithfulness and provision.
(
Ps 100
A Psalm of thanksgiving.
1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth!
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Serve the Lord with gladness;
come before His presence with singing.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Know that the Lord, He is God;
it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
and into His courts with praise;
be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) For the Lord is good; His mercy endures forever,
and His faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 100
A Psalm of praise.
1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.
2 Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing.
3 Know ye that the LORD he is God:
It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;
We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise:
Be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;
And his truth endureth to all generations.
)
b) Pray that the Lord will lead the Church in finding ways
to wisely and effectively respond to pressing social issues.
(
1 Chr 12:32
32 (Est 1:13) From the sons of Issachar,
those having understanding of times
and what Israel should do: two hundred of their captains
with all their brothers at their command.
32 And of the children of Issachar,
which were men that had understanding of the times,
to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred;
and all their brethren were at their commandment
)
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to accept all into the church as commanded by Christ.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, cultivate a heart of wisdom in me.
Enable me to live my life in a way that will always draw me closer to You."
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for being the absolute source of
security.
Pray to the Lord and pray to seek Him in full to prosper.
Pray to the Lord and pray to put full trust in Him.
Pray for in Newfoundland and Labrador
- The true Light of life, Jesus Christ, to be revealed to Muslims
in Newfoundland through the word, dreams, visions and answers to prayer.
- Christians to be as "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" regarding
Islam and reaching out in loving witness to Muslims in St. John's.
- for a dedicated, intentional witness to the growing number of Muslim
students on the university, college and trade school campuses.
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 a prayer of thanksgiving throughout
the day for God's unfailing love, Mercy, compassion,
faithfulness and provision.
Pray that the Lord will lead the Church in finding ways
to wisely and effectively respond to pressing social issues.
Pray for God to prepare the hearts pf a new believer's family members in
the Philippines so they will be receptive to 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.