Day 351 of the 2nd Bible Study Journey 21st Day of Advent - 17 December 2022 reflections
Day 351, 17 December 2022
1) Hebrews 8 - 10
Hebrews 8
Jesus Our High Priest
1 (Heb 1:3; Col 3:1) Now this is the main point of the things that we are
saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand
of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
2 a minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle, which the Lord,
not man, set up.
3 (Heb 5:1; Eph 5:2) For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts
and sacrifices. Therefore it is necessary that this priest also have
something to offer.
4 For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest,
since there are priests that offer gifts according to the law.
5 (Ex 25:40; Col 2:17) They serve in a sanctuary that is an example
and shadow of the heavenly one, as Moses was instructed
by God when he was about to make the tabernacle,
"See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you
on the mountain."-6 (Pr 3:11-12.)
6 (Heb 7:22; 12:24; 2Co 3:6-11) But now He has obtained a more excellent
ministry, because He is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was
established on better promises.
7 (Heb 7:11; 7:18) For if that first covenant had been faultless,
then no occasion would have been sought for a second.
8 (Jer 31:31-34; Lk 22:20) For finding fault with them, God says:
"Surely the days are coming, says the Lord,
when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah,
9 (Dt 5:2-3; Jer 31:32) not according to the covenant
that I made with their fathers
in the day when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of the land of Egypt;
because they did not continue in My covenant,
and I rejected them, says the Lord.
10 (Jer 31:33; 2Co 3:3) This is the covenant that I will make
with the house of Israel
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their minds
and write them on their hearts;
and I will be their God,
and they shall be My people.
11 (Isa 54:13; Jn 6:45; 1Jn 2:27) No longer shall every man teach
his neighbour,
and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,'
for all shall know Me,
from the least of them to the greatest. (Isa 54:13.)
12 (Ro 11:27; Isa 43:25) For I will be merciful toward their unrighteousness,
and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
13 (2Co 5:17) In speaking of a new covenant He has made the first one old.
Now that which is decaying and growing old is ready to vanish away.
[1] Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an
high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in
the heavens;
[2] A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord
pitched, and not man.
[3] For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices:
wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
[4] For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there
are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
[5] Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was
admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith
he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the
mount.
[6] But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he
is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better
promises.
[7] For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have
been sought for the second.
[8] For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the
Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the
house of Judah:
[9] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day
when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because
they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.
[10] For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel
after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and
write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be
to me a people:
[11] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his
brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the
greatest.
[12] For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and
their iniquities will I remember no more.
[13] In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that
which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
Hebrews 9
The Earthly and Heavenly Sanctuaries
1 (Ex 25:8; Heb 8:2) Then indeed, the first covenant had ordinances for divine
services and an earthly sanctuary.
2 (Ex 40:4; 26:35) A tabernacle was made. In the first part of the tabernacle,
called the Holy Place, were the candlestick, the table, and the showbread.
3 (Ex 26:31-33; 40:3) Behind the second veil was the second part of the
tabernacle called the Most Holy Place,
4 (Ex 26:33; 40:3) which contained the golden censer and the ark of the
covenant overlaid with gold, containing the golden pot holding the manna,
Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.
5 (Lev 16:2; Ex 25:17-22; 1Ki 8:6-7) Above the ark were the cherubim of glory
overshadowing the mercy seat. Concerning these things we cannot now speak in
detail.
6 (Nu 28:3) Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests would
regularly go into the first part, conducting the services of God.
7 (Lev 16:34; Ex 30:10) But only the high priest went into the second part
once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins
of the people, committed in ignorance.
8 (Jn 14:6; Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit was signifying through this that the way
into the Most Holy Place was not yet revealed, because the first part of the
tabernacle was still standing.
9 (Heb 5:1) This is an illustration for the present time, showing that
the gifts and sacrifices offered could not perfect the conscience of those
who worshipped,
10 (Col 2:16; Heb 7:16) since they are concerned only with foods and drinks,
ceremonial cleansings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time
of reformation.
11 (Heb 10:1; 2:17) But Christ, when He came as a High Priest of the good
things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle,
not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation,
12 (Heb 10:4; Da 9:24) neither by the blood of goats and calves,
but by His own blood, He entered the Most Holy Place once for all,
having obtained eternal redemption.
13 For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of a heifer,
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies so that the flesh is purified,
14 (1Pe 3:18; Heb 6:1; 10:22) how much more shall the blood of Christ,
who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God,
cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
15 (Ro 8:28; 1Ti 2:5) For this reason He is the Mediator of a new covenant,
since a death has occurred for the redemption of the sins that were committed
under the first covenant, so that those who are called might receive
the promise of eternal inheritance.
16 For where there is a will, there must also of necessity be the death
of the testator.
17 (Gal 3:15) For a will has force after men are dead, since it has no force
at all while the testator lives.
18 So not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.
19 (Nu 19:6; Heb 9:12) For when Moses had taught every precept to all
the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats,
with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book
and all the people,
20 (Mt 26:28; Ex 24:8) saying, "This is the blood of the covenant that God
has commanded you to keep."(Ex 19:12-13.)
21 (Lev 8:15; 8:19) Likewise he sprinkled both the tabernacle and all the
vessels of worship with blood.
22 (Lev 17:11) And according to the law almost everything must be cleansed
with blood; without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
[1] Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service,
and a worldly sanctuary.
[2] For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick,
and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
[3] And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of
all;
[4] Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round
about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod
that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
[5] And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we
cannot now speak particularly.
[6] Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into
the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
[7] But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not
without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the
people:
[8] The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was
not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
[9] Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both
gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect,
as pertaining to the conscience;
[10] Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal
ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[11] But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a
greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say,
not of this building;
[12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he
entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for
us.
[13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
[14] How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit
offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works
to serve the living God?
[15] And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by
means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the
first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal
inheritance.
[16] For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of
the testator.
[17] For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no
strength at all while the testator liveth.
[18] Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
[19] For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to
the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet
wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,
[20] Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto
you.
[21] Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the
vessels of the ministry.
[22] And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without
shedding of blood is no remission.
Christ's Sacrifice Takes Away Sin
23 (Heb 8:5; 9:24) It was therefore necessary that the replicas of heavenly
things be cleansed with these sacrifices, but that the heavenly things
themselves be cleansed with better sacrifices than these.
24 (Heb 8:2) For Christ did not enter holy places made with hands,
which are patterned after the true one, but into heaven itself,
now to appear in the presence of God for us.
25 (Heb 9:7; 10:19) Nor did He enter to offer Himself often, as the high
priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not his own.
26 (Heb 1:2; 7:27) For then He would have had to suffer repeatedly
since the world was created, but now He has appeared once at the end
of the ages to put away sin by sacrificing Himself.
27 (Ge 3:19; 2Co 5:10) As it is appointed for men to die once,
but after this comes the judgment,
28 (Titus 2:13; 1Pe 2:24) so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many,
and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who
eagerly wait for Him.
[23] It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens
should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with
better sacrifices than these.
[24] For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which
are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the
presence of God for us:
[25] Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth
into the holy place every year with blood of others;
[26] For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world:
but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the
sacrifice of himself.
[27] And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the
judgment:
[28] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that
look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Hebrews 10
1 (Heb 8:5; 9:11) For the law is a shadow of the good things to come,
and not the very image of those things. It could never by the same sacrifices,
which they offer continually year after year, perfect those who draw near.
2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshippers,
once purified, would no longer be conscious of sins?
3 (Heb 9:7) But in those sacrifices there is an annual reminder of sins.
4 (Heb 10:11) For it is not possible for the blood of bulls
and goats to take away sins.
5 (Heb 1:6; Ge 3:15) Therefore, when He came into the world, He said:
"Sacrifices and offerings You did not desire,
but a body You have prepared for Me.
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin
You have had no pleasure.
7 (Ge 3:15) Then I said, 'See, I have come to do Your will, O God,'
as it is written of Me
in the volume of the book."
8 (Heb 10:5) Previously when He said, "You did not desire sacrifices
and offerings. You have had no pleasure in burnt offerings
and sacrifices for sin,"(Ps 40:6.) which are offered in accordance
with the law,
9 (Heb 10:7) then He said, "See, I have come to do Your will, O God."
(Ps 40:8.) He takes away the first that He may establish the second.
10 (Jn 17:19; Heb 2:11) By this will we have been sanctified through
the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 (Heb 5:1; 10:4) But every priest stands daily ministering and repetitively
offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
12 (Heb 1:3) But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins
forever, sat down at the right hand of God.
13 (Heb 1:13; Ps 110:1) Since that time He has been waiting for His enemies
to be made His footstool.
14 (Heb 10:1) For by one offering He has forever perfected
those who are sanctified.
15 (Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit also witnesses to us about this.
For after saying,
16 (Ro 11:27) "This is the covenant that I will make with them
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their hearts,
and in their minds I will write them,"(Jer 31:33.)
17 (Heb 8:12) then He adds,
"Their sins and lawless deeds
will I remember no more."(*Jer 31:34.)
18 Now where there is forgiveness of these,
there is no longer an offering for sin.
[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very
image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year
by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the
worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every
year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take
away sins.
[5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and
offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
[6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
[7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,)
to do thy will, O God.
[8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and
offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which
are offered by the law;
[9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the
first, that he may establish the second.
[10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of
Jesus Christ once for all.
[11] And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the
same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[12] But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat
down on the right hand of God;
[13] From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
[14] For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are
sanctified.
[15] Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had
said before,
[16] This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith
the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I
write them;
[17] And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
[18] Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
Exhortation and Warning
19 (Eph 2:18; Heb 4:16) Therefore, brothers, we have confidence to enter
the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,
20 (Heb 9:3; Jn 10:9) by a new and living way that He has opened for us
through the veil, that is to say, His flesh,
21 (Heb 2:17; 1Ti 3:15) and since we have a High Priest over the house
of God,
22 (Eze 36:25; 1Co 6:11; Heb 7:19) let us draw near with a true heart
in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse them
from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 (1Co 1:9; Heb 3:6) Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith
without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 (Titus 3:8; Heb 13:1) And let us consider how to spur one another
to love and to good works.
25 (Ac 2:42; Heb 3:13) Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves
together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another,
especially as you see the Day approaching.
26 (Dt 17:12; Heb 6:4-6) For if we willfully continue to sin after
we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins,
27 (Isa 26:11; Eze 36:5) but a fearful expectation of judgment and fiery
indignation, which will devour the adversaries.
28 (Heb 2:2; Dt 19:15) Anyone who despised Moses' law died without mercy
in the presence of two or three witnesses.
29 (Eph 4:30; Heb 2:3) How much more severe a punishment do you suppose
he deserves, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded
the blood of the covenant that sanctified him to be a common thing,
and has insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 (Dt 32:35-36; Ro 12:19) For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine,"
says the Lord, "I will repay."(Dt 32:35.) And again He says, "The Lord will
judge His people."(Dt 32:36.)
31 (Isa 33:14; Lk 12:5) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands
of the living God.
32 (Heb 6:4; Php 1:29-30) Remember the former days, after you were
enlightened, in which you endured a great struggle of afflictions.
33 (1Co 4:9; Php 4:14) In part you were made a spectacle both by reproaches
and afflictions. And in part you became companions of those who were so
abused.
34 (1Pe 1:4; 2Ti 1:16) For you had compassion on me in my chains and joyfully
endured the confiscation of your property, knowing that you have in heaven a
better and an enduring possession for yourselves.
35 (Heb 11:26) Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which will be
greatly rewarded.
36 (Lk 21:19; Heb 12:1) For you need patience, so that after you have done
the will of God, you will receive the promise.
37 (Rev 22:20; Isa 26:20) For,
"In yet a little while,
He who is to come will come, and will not wait.
38 (Ro 1:17; Gal 3:11) Now the just shall live by faith;
but if anyone draws back,
My soul shall have no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to destruction,
but of those who have faith to the saving of the soul.
[19] Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the
blood of Jesus,
[20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the
veil, that is to say, his flesh;
[21] And having an high priest over the house of God;
[22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
pure water.
[23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he
is faithful that promised;)
[24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
[25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of
some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day
approaching.
[26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the
truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
[27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation,
which shall devour the adversaries.
[28] He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three
witnesses:
[29] Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy,
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of
the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done
despite unto the Spirit of grace?
[30] For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will
recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
[31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
[32] But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were
illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
[33] Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and
afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so
used.
[34] For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling
of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an
enduring substance.
[35] Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of
reward.
[36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God,
ye might receive the promise.
[37] For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not
tarry.
[38] Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul
shall have no pleasure in him.
[39] But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that
believe to the saving of the soul.
2) Our Daily Bread for 17 December 2022
Entitled "Just Enough"
Proverbs 30:7-9
7 Two things I have required of you;
do not deny me them before I die:
8 (Mt 6:11; Lk 11:3) Remove vanity and lies far from me-
give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with food convenient for me;
9 (Ex 20:7; Dt 31:20) lest I be full, and deny You,
and say, "Who is the Lord?"
or lest I be poor, and steal,
and take the name of my God in vain.
[7] Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:
[8] Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with food convenient for me:
[9] Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be
poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.
In the movie Fiddler on the Roof, the character Tevye talks honestly with God
about His economics: "You made many, many poor people. I realise, of course,
that it's no shame to be poor. But it's no great honour either! So, what would
have been so terrible if I had a small fortune! . . . Would it have spoiled
some vast, eternal plan-if I were a wealthy man?"
Many centuries before author Sholem Aleichem placed these honest words on
Tevye's tongue, Agur lifted an equally honest but somewhat different prayer
to God in the book of Proverbs. Agur asked God to give him neither poverty
nor wealth-just his "daily bread" (Proverbs 30:8). He knew that having "too
much" could make him proud and transform him into a practical atheist-denying
the character of God. In addition, he asked God to not let him "become poor"
because it might cause him to dishonour God's name by stealing from others
(v. 9). Agur recognized God as his sole provider, and he asked Him for
"just enough" to satisfy his daily needs. His prayer revealed a pursuit
of God and the contentment that's found in Him alone.
May we have Agur's attitude, recognizing God as the provider of all we have.
And as we pursue financial stewardship that honors His name, let's live in
contentment before Him-the One who not only provides "just enough,"
but more than enough.
By: Marvin Williams
Reflect & Pray
What can you do to pursue God and find contentment in Him?
How can you express your gratitude to Him for His faithfulness?
Dear God, our Provider, help me to be satisfied with everything You supply.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 7 - The Cost of Widsom
Proverbs 4:4,7
Proverbs 4
4 (Pr 7:2; Eph 6:4) He also taught me and said to me,
"Let your heart retain my words;
keep my commandments, and live.
7 (Mt 13:44-46) Wisdom is principal; therefore get wisdom.
And with all your getting, get understanding. "
4 He taught me also, and said unto me,
Let thine heart retain my words:
Keep my commandments, and live.
7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom:
And with all thy getting get understanding.
Establishing priorities is a popular topic of conversation in our
generation. We carry appointment calendars and attend goal-setting
strategy seminars. We let machines answer our telephones so that
we won't miss any important messages, or so that we can screen calls
before we answer them. We order our lives so that we can "get ahead".
"Getting ahead" in God's kingdom, however, involves other priorities
than the ones we may set for ourselves. "Wisdom is supreme," the
principal thing, says Proverbs 4:7, "Get wisdom. Though it cost
all you have, get understanding."
Wisdom is defined as "an understanding of what is true, right, or lasting."
Biblical wisdom is not merely the accumulation of facts about God and his
teaching, but the application of those truths of life, taking on
the character of God as we mature in the image of Christ.
Such wisdom may, indeed, come at great cost. Jesus calls us to "lay
down our lives" to follow him - perhaps not literally to die, but to die
to self-centered priorities, to allow the Holy Spirit to establish
his value system in us.
"Keep my commandments and you will live," Proverbs 4:4 says. Real life -
rich, fulfilling, significant, abundant life - comes only through union
with God. The success offered by the world, the acclaim of others, material
prosperity and convenience cannot satisfy us once we have tasted
the joy of life with God in Christ.
Application
a) What does "getting wisdom" means to me?
b) What practical changes can I make in my life to help me focus
my attention on the priorities and values of the Lord?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
2 Cor 9:8,11
8 God is able to make all grace abound toward you,
so that you, always having enough of everything,
may abound to every good work.
11 So you will be enriched in everything to all bountifulness,
which makes us give thanks to God.
8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having
all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
11 being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through
us thanksgiving to God.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Facing Pain and Suffering
Ps 9:9-12
9 The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know Your name will put their trust in You,
for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.
11 Sing praises to the Lord who dwells in Zion;
declare His deeds among the people.
12 He who avenges deaths remembers them;
He does not forget the cry of the humble.
Waw
9 The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed,
A refuge in times of trouble.
10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee:
For thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
Zain
11 Sing praises to the LORD, which dwelleth in Zion:
Declare among the people his doings.
12 When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them:
He forgetteth not the cry of the humble.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
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
)
Advent Day 21
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle
[The Queen of Narnia] "'isn't a real queen at all,' answered Lucy.
'She is a horrible White Witch She has made an enchantment
over the whole country so that it is always winter here and never Christmas.'
'I wonder if there's any point in going on,' said Susan....
'What about just going home?'" - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, p. 56.)
Always Winter and Never Christmas
Always winter and never Christmas. Nothing could be more depressing.
Continual anticipation of celebration, gift-giving, and wonderful music,
but never arriving at the promise. Advent is exciting, but a perpetual
Advent season would drag on. In Narnia, it had been winter for a hundred
years, but Christmas never arrived. The white witch had bound Narnia
in ice and snow. The winter weather contained the promise,
but not the reality of Christmas. Without the breaking of her
enchantment, Christmas would never come.
Lucy had been the first to enter Narnia. Her words from The Lion,
the Witch and the Wardrobe repeat what she has heard: always
winter and never Christmas. But in that phrase there lies a promise.
Some day it will be Christmas! Asian is on the move! The lion is coming.
He will defeat the witch. The wardrobe will prove to be a gateway
to the fulfillment of a promise. Evil has its limits. One day we will celebrate.
And so Asian came, and the ice and snow began to melt. Eventually,
the witch's power melted as surely as the ice and snow had.
Since the first promise of a Savior and the first declaration of a final
Day of the Lord, much time has passed. The promise remains valid,
because "a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day"
with the Lord (2 Peter 3:8). He has come, and he is coming again.
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
8 (Ps 90:4) But, beloved, do not be ignorant of this one thing,
that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years
as one day.
9 (1Ti 2:4; Hab 2:3; Heb 10:37) The Lord is not slow concerning His promise,
as some count slowness. But He is patient with us, because He does not want
any to perish, but all to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:8-9
From Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn
SATURDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Lord God
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,...
-Luke 1:68a
I have taken the liberty of capitalizing the entire name LORD
(here and in earlier meditations) because it seems most likely
that the speakers utilized the Aramaic version of the original
Hebrew word we translate "Jehovah" or "Yahweh." In English we employ
the all-capitalized word rather than Lord, which renders the Hebrew
name Adonai or "Sovereign One." LORD means the "Covenant One,"
so you might want to watch for its occurrences in the First Testament
and note each time the choice of that assuring/fulfilling name.
Here Zechariah blesses Israel's Promising God because he had scrutinised
his people positively and reclaimed them after all the times in their
history they had gone astray.
Zechariah's son John would have a great part in a future restoration
(Luke 1:15b-16).
Do we need a more favourable view of the First
(rather than "Old" or, as some think, "Outdated") Testament?
To see all the grace that is implied by LORD might
be an excellent starting point.
Prayer
The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Read Luke 1:67-68.
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,
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD SATURDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ATTRIBUTES!
How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"ISAIAH 52:7
Today's Scripture outlines some of the Advent AH-HAs of attributes
of those who share the good news of Christmas . .. and beyond. How
beautiful are the feet of the messengers who bring peace and hope to
a troubled world! And then we are even encouraged to "break forth in
singing," another great attribute given to us to use to glorify the Lords
Think of some of the AH-HA attributes that you are sharing with others. Go
ahead. no need to be a "shucks, I don't have much" kind of person. We
all have been blessed with so many gifts, and I do not mean those lying
under your tree.
As an experiment, try this; Write down or think of six words you would use
to describe your Advent journey of faith. This idea evolved from a book
entitled Not Quite What I was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers
Famous card Obscure in which people summed up their lives in six
words. One comic wrote, "Well,l thought it was funny." Ernest Hemingway
wrote, "For sale, baby shoes, never worn." Folks from Chicago might write,
'Cubbies--just wait until next year!" A former math teacher of mine would
have said. "l never could count well!'
Some quick attributes of Advent for me an: "He came to give us life."o r
Everything in the name of Jesus." or "The Word Made Flesh among us.'
Share your attributes as gifts to others.
Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 52:7-10.
7 (Isa 40:9; Na 1:15; Ps 93:1) How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
8 (Isa 62:6; 1Co 13:12) Your watchmen lift up their voices;
they sing joyfully together;
for they shall see with their own eyes
when the Lord brings Zion back.
9 (Isa 51:3; 48:20) Break forth into joy, sing together,
you waste places of Jerusalem.
For the Lord has comforted His people;
He has redeemed Jerusalem.
10 (Isa 51:9; Lk 3:6) The Lord has bared His holy arm
in the eyes of all the nations,
and all the ends of the earth shall see
the salvation of our God.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him who can save your soul.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, our Provider, help me to be satisfied
with everything You supply."
Pray to the Lord and pray to Let your heart retain His words.
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for abundance.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as a refuge to the oppressed.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for the safety of those
who live in your community -
safety from conflict an crimes
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
Pray: The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Pray: Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray that God will raise up more young people in China
to serve in His Kingdom.
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) Hebrews 8 - 10
Hebrews 8
Jesus Our High Priest
1 (Heb 1:3; Col 3:1) Now this is the main point of the things that we are
saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand
of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
2 a minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle, which the Lord,
not man, set up.
3 (Heb 5:1; Eph 5:2) For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts
and sacrifices. Therefore it is necessary that this priest also have
something to offer.
4 For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest,
since there are priests that offer gifts according to the law.
5 (Ex 25:40; Col 2:17) They serve in a sanctuary that is an example
and shadow of the heavenly one, as Moses was instructed
by God when he was about to make the tabernacle,
"See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you
on the mountain."-6 (Pr 3:11-12.)
6 (Heb 7:22; 12:24; 2Co 3:6-11) But now He has obtained a more excellent
ministry, because He is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was
established on better promises.
7 (Heb 7:11; 7:18) For if that first covenant had been faultless,
then no occasion would have been sought for a second.
8 (Jer 31:31-34; Lk 22:20) For finding fault with them, God says:
"Surely the days are coming, says the Lord,
when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah,
9 (Dt 5:2-3; Jer 31:32) not according to the covenant
that I made with their fathers
in the day when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of the land of Egypt;
because they did not continue in My covenant,
and I rejected them, says the Lord.
10 (Jer 31:33; 2Co 3:3) This is the covenant that I will make
with the house of Israel
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their minds
and write them on their hearts;
and I will be their God,
and they shall be My people.
11 (Isa 54:13; Jn 6:45; 1Jn 2:27) No longer shall every man teach
his neighbour,
and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,'
for all shall know Me,
from the least of them to the greatest. (Isa 54:13.)
12 (Ro 11:27; Isa 43:25) For I will be merciful toward their unrighteousness,
and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
13 (2Co 5:17) In speaking of a new covenant He has made the first one old.
Now that which is decaying and growing old is ready to vanish away.
[1] Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an
high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in
the heavens;
[2] A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord
pitched, and not man.
[3] For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices:
wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
[4] For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there
are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
[5] Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was
admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith
he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the
mount.
[6] But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he
is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better
promises.
[7] For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have
been sought for the second.
[8] For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the
Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the
house of Judah:
[9] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day
when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because
they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.
[10] For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel
after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and
write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be
to me a people:
[11] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his
brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the
greatest.
[12] For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and
their iniquities will I remember no more.
[13] In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that
which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
Hebrews 9
The Earthly and Heavenly Sanctuaries
1 (Ex 25:8; Heb 8:2) Then indeed, the first covenant had ordinances for divine
services and an earthly sanctuary.
2 (Ex 40:4; 26:35) A tabernacle was made. In the first part of the tabernacle,
called the Holy Place, were the candlestick, the table, and the showbread.
3 (Ex 26:31-33; 40:3) Behind the second veil was the second part of the
tabernacle called the Most Holy Place,
4 (Ex 26:33; 40:3) which contained the golden censer and the ark of the
covenant overlaid with gold, containing the golden pot holding the manna,
Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.
5 (Lev 16:2; Ex 25:17-22; 1Ki 8:6-7) Above the ark were the cherubim of glory
overshadowing the mercy seat. Concerning these things we cannot now speak in
detail.
6 (Nu 28:3) Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests would
regularly go into the first part, conducting the services of God.
7 (Lev 16:34; Ex 30:10) But only the high priest went into the second part
once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins
of the people, committed in ignorance.
8 (Jn 14:6; Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit was signifying through this that the way
into the Most Holy Place was not yet revealed, because the first part of the
tabernacle was still standing.
9 (Heb 5:1) This is an illustration for the present time, showing that
the gifts and sacrifices offered could not perfect the conscience of those
who worshipped,
10 (Col 2:16; Heb 7:16) since they are concerned only with foods and drinks,
ceremonial cleansings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time
of reformation.
11 (Heb 10:1; 2:17) But Christ, when He came as a High Priest of the good
things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle,
not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation,
12 (Heb 10:4; Da 9:24) neither by the blood of goats and calves,
but by His own blood, He entered the Most Holy Place once for all,
having obtained eternal redemption.
13 For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of a heifer,
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies so that the flesh is purified,
14 (1Pe 3:18; Heb 6:1; 10:22) how much more shall the blood of Christ,
who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God,
cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
15 (Ro 8:28; 1Ti 2:5) For this reason He is the Mediator of a new covenant,
since a death has occurred for the redemption of the sins that were committed
under the first covenant, so that those who are called might receive
the promise of eternal inheritance.
16 For where there is a will, there must also of necessity be the death
of the testator.
17 (Gal 3:15) For a will has force after men are dead, since it has no force
at all while the testator lives.
18 So not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.
19 (Nu 19:6; Heb 9:12) For when Moses had taught every precept to all
the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats,
with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book
and all the people,
20 (Mt 26:28; Ex 24:8) saying, "This is the blood of the covenant that God
has commanded you to keep."(Ex 19:12-13.)
21 (Lev 8:15; 8:19) Likewise he sprinkled both the tabernacle and all the
vessels of worship with blood.
22 (Lev 17:11) And according to the law almost everything must be cleansed
with blood; without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
[1] Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service,
and a worldly sanctuary.
[2] For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick,
and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
[3] And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of
all;
[4] Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round
about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod
that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
[5] And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we
cannot now speak particularly.
[6] Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into
the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
[7] But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not
without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the
people:
[8] The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was
not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
[9] Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both
gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect,
as pertaining to the conscience;
[10] Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal
ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[11] But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a
greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say,
not of this building;
[12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he
entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for
us.
[13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
[14] How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit
offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works
to serve the living God?
[15] And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by
means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the
first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal
inheritance.
[16] For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of
the testator.
[17] For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no
strength at all while the testator liveth.
[18] Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
[19] For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to
the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet
wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,
[20] Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto
you.
[21] Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the
vessels of the ministry.
[22] And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without
shedding of blood is no remission.
Christ's Sacrifice Takes Away Sin
23 (Heb 8:5; 9:24) It was therefore necessary that the replicas of heavenly
things be cleansed with these sacrifices, but that the heavenly things
themselves be cleansed with better sacrifices than these.
24 (Heb 8:2) For Christ did not enter holy places made with hands,
which are patterned after the true one, but into heaven itself,
now to appear in the presence of God for us.
25 (Heb 9:7; 10:19) Nor did He enter to offer Himself often, as the high
priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not his own.
26 (Heb 1:2; 7:27) For then He would have had to suffer repeatedly
since the world was created, but now He has appeared once at the end
of the ages to put away sin by sacrificing Himself.
27 (Ge 3:19; 2Co 5:10) As it is appointed for men to die once,
but after this comes the judgment,
28 (Titus 2:13; 1Pe 2:24) so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many,
and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who
eagerly wait for Him.
[23] It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens
should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with
better sacrifices than these.
[24] For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which
are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the
presence of God for us:
[25] Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth
into the holy place every year with blood of others;
[26] For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world:
but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the
sacrifice of himself.
[27] And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the
judgment:
[28] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that
look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Hebrews 10
1 (Heb 8:5; 9:11) For the law is a shadow of the good things to come,
and not the very image of those things. It could never by the same sacrifices,
which they offer continually year after year, perfect those who draw near.
2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshippers,
once purified, would no longer be conscious of sins?
3 (Heb 9:7) But in those sacrifices there is an annual reminder of sins.
4 (Heb 10:11) For it is not possible for the blood of bulls
and goats to take away sins.
5 (Heb 1:6; Ge 3:15) Therefore, when He came into the world, He said:
"Sacrifices and offerings You did not desire,
but a body You have prepared for Me.
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin
You have had no pleasure.
7 (Ge 3:15) Then I said, 'See, I have come to do Your will, O God,'
as it is written of Me
in the volume of the book."
8 (Heb 10:5) Previously when He said, "You did not desire sacrifices
and offerings. You have had no pleasure in burnt offerings
and sacrifices for sin,"(Ps 40:6.) which are offered in accordance
with the law,
9 (Heb 10:7) then He said, "See, I have come to do Your will, O God."
(Ps 40:8.) He takes away the first that He may establish the second.
10 (Jn 17:19; Heb 2:11) By this will we have been sanctified through
the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 (Heb 5:1; 10:4) But every priest stands daily ministering and repetitively
offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
12 (Heb 1:3) But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins
forever, sat down at the right hand of God.
13 (Heb 1:13; Ps 110:1) Since that time He has been waiting for His enemies
to be made His footstool.
14 (Heb 10:1) For by one offering He has forever perfected
those who are sanctified.
15 (Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit also witnesses to us about this.
For after saying,
16 (Ro 11:27) "This is the covenant that I will make with them
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their hearts,
and in their minds I will write them,"(Jer 31:33.)
17 (Heb 8:12) then He adds,
"Their sins and lawless deeds
will I remember no more."(*Jer 31:34.)
18 Now where there is forgiveness of these,
there is no longer an offering for sin.
[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very
image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year
by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the
worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every
year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take
away sins.
[5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and
offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
[6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
[7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,)
to do thy will, O God.
[8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and
offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which
are offered by the law;
[9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the
first, that he may establish the second.
[10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of
Jesus Christ once for all.
[11] And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the
same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[12] But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat
down on the right hand of God;
[13] From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
[14] For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are
sanctified.
[15] Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had
said before,
[16] This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith
the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I
write them;
[17] And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
[18] Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
Exhortation and Warning
19 (Eph 2:18; Heb 4:16) Therefore, brothers, we have confidence to enter
the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,
20 (Heb 9:3; Jn 10:9) by a new and living way that He has opened for us
through the veil, that is to say, His flesh,
21 (Heb 2:17; 1Ti 3:15) and since we have a High Priest over the house
of God,
22 (Eze 36:25; 1Co 6:11; Heb 7:19) let us draw near with a true heart
in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse them
from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 (1Co 1:9; Heb 3:6) Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith
without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 (Titus 3:8; Heb 13:1) And let us consider how to spur one another
to love and to good works.
25 (Ac 2:42; Heb 3:13) Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves
together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another,
especially as you see the Day approaching.
26 (Dt 17:12; Heb 6:4-6) For if we willfully continue to sin after
we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins,
27 (Isa 26:11; Eze 36:5) but a fearful expectation of judgment and fiery
indignation, which will devour the adversaries.
28 (Heb 2:2; Dt 19:15) Anyone who despised Moses' law died without mercy
in the presence of two or three witnesses.
29 (Eph 4:30; Heb 2:3) How much more severe a punishment do you suppose
he deserves, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded
the blood of the covenant that sanctified him to be a common thing,
and has insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 (Dt 32:35-36; Ro 12:19) For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine,"
says the Lord, "I will repay."(Dt 32:35.) And again He says, "The Lord will
judge His people."(Dt 32:36.)
31 (Isa 33:14; Lk 12:5) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands
of the living God.
32 (Heb 6:4; Php 1:29-30) Remember the former days, after you were
enlightened, in which you endured a great struggle of afflictions.
33 (1Co 4:9; Php 4:14) In part you were made a spectacle both by reproaches
and afflictions. And in part you became companions of those who were so
abused.
34 (1Pe 1:4; 2Ti 1:16) For you had compassion on me in my chains and joyfully
endured the confiscation of your property, knowing that you have in heaven a
better and an enduring possession for yourselves.
35 (Heb 11:26) Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which will be
greatly rewarded.
36 (Lk 21:19; Heb 12:1) For you need patience, so that after you have done
the will of God, you will receive the promise.
37 (Rev 22:20; Isa 26:20) For,
"In yet a little while,
He who is to come will come, and will not wait.
38 (Ro 1:17; Gal 3:11) Now the just shall live by faith;
but if anyone draws back,
My soul shall have no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to destruction,
but of those who have faith to the saving of the soul.
[19] Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the
blood of Jesus,
[20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the
veil, that is to say, his flesh;
[21] And having an high priest over the house of God;
[22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
pure water.
[23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he
is faithful that promised;)
[24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
[25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of
some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day
approaching.
[26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the
truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
[27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation,
which shall devour the adversaries.
[28] He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three
witnesses:
[29] Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy,
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of
the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done
despite unto the Spirit of grace?
[30] For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will
recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
[31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
[32] But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were
illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
[33] Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and
afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so
used.
[34] For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling
of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an
enduring substance.
[35] Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of
reward.
[36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God,
ye might receive the promise.
[37] For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not
tarry.
[38] Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul
shall have no pleasure in him.
[39] But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that
believe to the saving of the soul.
2) Our Daily Bread for 17 December 2022
Entitled "Just Enough"
Proverbs 30:7-9
7 Two things I have required of you;
do not deny me them before I die:
8 (Mt 6:11; Lk 11:3) Remove vanity and lies far from me-
give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with food convenient for me;
9 (Ex 20:7; Dt 31:20) lest I be full, and deny You,
and say, "Who is the Lord?"
or lest I be poor, and steal,
and take the name of my God in vain.
[7] Two things have I required of thee; deny me them not before I die:
[8] Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with food convenient for me:
[9] Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the LORD? or lest I be
poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain.
In the movie Fiddler on the Roof, the character Tevye talks honestly with God
about His economics: "You made many, many poor people. I realise, of course,
that it's no shame to be poor. But it's no great honour either! So, what would
have been so terrible if I had a small fortune! . . . Would it have spoiled
some vast, eternal plan-if I were a wealthy man?"
Many centuries before author Sholem Aleichem placed these honest words on
Tevye's tongue, Agur lifted an equally honest but somewhat different prayer
to God in the book of Proverbs. Agur asked God to give him neither poverty
nor wealth-just his "daily bread" (Proverbs 30:8). He knew that having "too
much" could make him proud and transform him into a practical atheist-denying
the character of God. In addition, he asked God to not let him "become poor"
because it might cause him to dishonour God's name by stealing from others
(v. 9). Agur recognized God as his sole provider, and he asked Him for
"just enough" to satisfy his daily needs. His prayer revealed a pursuit
of God and the contentment that's found in Him alone.
May we have Agur's attitude, recognizing God as the provider of all we have.
And as we pursue financial stewardship that honors His name, let's live in
contentment before Him-the One who not only provides "just enough,"
but more than enough.
By: Marvin Williams
Reflect & Pray
What can you do to pursue God and find contentment in Him?
How can you express your gratitude to Him for His faithfulness?
Dear God, our Provider, help me to be satisfied with everything You supply.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 7 - The Cost of Widsom
Proverbs 4:4,7
Proverbs 4
4 (Pr 7:2; Eph 6:4) He also taught me and said to me,
"Let your heart retain my words;
keep my commandments, and live.
7 (Mt 13:44-46) Wisdom is principal; therefore get wisdom.
And with all your getting, get understanding. "
4 He taught me also, and said unto me,
Let thine heart retain my words:
Keep my commandments, and live.
7 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom:
And with all thy getting get understanding.
Establishing priorities is a popular topic of conversation in our
generation. We carry appointment calendars and attend goal-setting
strategy seminars. We let machines answer our telephones so that
we won't miss any important messages, or so that we can screen calls
before we answer them. We order our lives so that we can "get ahead".
"Getting ahead" in God's kingdom, however, involves other priorities
than the ones we may set for ourselves. "Wisdom is supreme," the
principal thing, says Proverbs 4:7, "Get wisdom. Though it cost
all you have, get understanding."
Wisdom is defined as "an understanding of what is true, right, or lasting."
Biblical wisdom is not merely the accumulation of facts about God and his
teaching, but the application of those truths of life, taking on
the character of God as we mature in the image of Christ.
Such wisdom may, indeed, come at great cost. Jesus calls us to "lay
down our lives" to follow him - perhaps not literally to die, but to die
to self-centered priorities, to allow the Holy Spirit to establish
his value system in us.
"Keep my commandments and you will live," Proverbs 4:4 says. Real life -
rich, fulfilling, significant, abundant life - comes only through union
with God. The success offered by the world, the acclaim of others, material
prosperity and convenience cannot satisfy us once we have tasted
the joy of life with God in Christ.
Application
a) What does "getting wisdom" means to me?
b) What practical changes can I make in my life to help me focus
my attention on the priorities and values of the Lord?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
2 Cor 9:8,11
8 God is able to make all grace abound toward you,
so that you, always having enough of everything,
may abound to every good work.
11 So you will be enriched in everything to all bountifulness,
which makes us give thanks to God.
8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having
all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
11 being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through
us thanksgiving to God.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are Facing Pain and Suffering
Ps 9:9-12
9 The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed,
a refuge in times of trouble.
10 Those who know Your name will put their trust in You,
for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.
11 Sing praises to the Lord who dwells in Zion;
declare His deeds among the people.
12 He who avenges deaths remembers them;
He does not forget the cry of the humble.
Waw
9 The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed,
A refuge in times of trouble.
10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee:
For thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
Zain
11 Sing praises to the LORD, which dwelleth in Zion:
Declare among the people his doings.
12 When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them:
He forgetteth not the cry of the humble.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
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
)
Advent Day 21
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle
[The Queen of Narnia] "'isn't a real queen at all,' answered Lucy.
'She is a horrible White Witch She has made an enchantment
over the whole country so that it is always winter here and never Christmas.'
'I wonder if there's any point in going on,' said Susan....
'What about just going home?'" - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, p. 56.)
Always Winter and Never Christmas
Always winter and never Christmas. Nothing could be more depressing.
Continual anticipation of celebration, gift-giving, and wonderful music,
but never arriving at the promise. Advent is exciting, but a perpetual
Advent season would drag on. In Narnia, it had been winter for a hundred
years, but Christmas never arrived. The white witch had bound Narnia
in ice and snow. The winter weather contained the promise,
but not the reality of Christmas. Without the breaking of her
enchantment, Christmas would never come.
Lucy had been the first to enter Narnia. Her words from The Lion,
the Witch and the Wardrobe repeat what she has heard: always
winter and never Christmas. But in that phrase there lies a promise.
Some day it will be Christmas! Asian is on the move! The lion is coming.
He will defeat the witch. The wardrobe will prove to be a gateway
to the fulfillment of a promise. Evil has its limits. One day we will celebrate.
And so Asian came, and the ice and snow began to melt. Eventually,
the witch's power melted as surely as the ice and snow had.
Since the first promise of a Savior and the first declaration of a final
Day of the Lord, much time has passed. The promise remains valid,
because "a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day"
with the Lord (2 Peter 3:8). He has come, and he is coming again.
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
8 (Ps 90:4) But, beloved, do not be ignorant of this one thing,
that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years
as one day.
9 (1Ti 2:4; Hab 2:3; Heb 10:37) The Lord is not slow concerning His promise,
as some count slowness. But He is patient with us, because He does not want
any to perish, but all to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:8-9
From Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn
SATURDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Lord God
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,...
-Luke 1:68a
I have taken the liberty of capitalizing the entire name LORD
(here and in earlier meditations) because it seems most likely
that the speakers utilized the Aramaic version of the original
Hebrew word we translate "Jehovah" or "Yahweh." In English we employ
the all-capitalized word rather than Lord, which renders the Hebrew
name Adonai or "Sovereign One." LORD means the "Covenant One,"
so you might want to watch for its occurrences in the First Testament
and note each time the choice of that assuring/fulfilling name.
Here Zechariah blesses Israel's Promising God because he had scrutinised
his people positively and reclaimed them after all the times in their
history they had gone astray.
Zechariah's son John would have a great part in a future restoration
(Luke 1:15b-16).
Do we need a more favourable view of the First
(rather than "Old" or, as some think, "Outdated") Testament?
To see all the grace that is implied by LORD might
be an excellent starting point.
Prayer
The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Read Luke 1:67-68.
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,
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD SATURDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ATTRIBUTES!
How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"ISAIAH 52:7
Today's Scripture outlines some of the Advent AH-HAs of attributes
of those who share the good news of Christmas . .. and beyond. How
beautiful are the feet of the messengers who bring peace and hope to
a troubled world! And then we are even encouraged to "break forth in
singing," another great attribute given to us to use to glorify the Lords
Think of some of the AH-HA attributes that you are sharing with others. Go
ahead. no need to be a "shucks, I don't have much" kind of person. We
all have been blessed with so many gifts, and I do not mean those lying
under your tree.
As an experiment, try this; Write down or think of six words you would use
to describe your Advent journey of faith. This idea evolved from a book
entitled Not Quite What I was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers
Famous card Obscure in which people summed up their lives in six
words. One comic wrote, "Well,l thought it was funny." Ernest Hemingway
wrote, "For sale, baby shoes, never worn." Folks from Chicago might write,
'Cubbies--just wait until next year!" A former math teacher of mine would
have said. "l never could count well!'
Some quick attributes of Advent for me an: "He came to give us life."o r
Everything in the name of Jesus." or "The Word Made Flesh among us.'
Share your attributes as gifts to others.
Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 52:7-10.
7 (Isa 40:9; Na 1:15; Ps 93:1) How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
8 (Isa 62:6; 1Co 13:12) Your watchmen lift up their voices;
they sing joyfully together;
for they shall see with their own eyes
when the Lord brings Zion back.
9 (Isa 51:3; 48:20) Break forth into joy, sing together,
you waste places of Jerusalem.
For the Lord has comforted His people;
He has redeemed Jerusalem.
10 (Isa 51:9; Lk 3:6) The Lord has bared His holy arm
in the eyes of all the nations,
and all the ends of the earth shall see
the salvation of our God.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him who can save your soul.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, our Provider, help me to be satisfied
with everything You supply."
Pray to the Lord and pray to Let your heart retain His words.
Pray to the Lord and pray to thank Him for abundance.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as a refuge to the oppressed.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for the safety of those
who live in your community -
safety from conflict an crimes
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
Pray: The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Pray: Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray that God will raise up more young people in China
to serve in His Kingdom.
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.