Day 335 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 1 December 2023 reflections - 6th Day of Advent
Day 335, 1 December 2023 - 6th Day of Advent
1) Romans 11, Romans 12, Romans 13
Romans 11
The Remnant of Israel
1 (1Sa 12:22; 2Co 11:22) I say then, has God rejected His people?
God forbid! For I also am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham,
of the tribe of Benjamin.
2 (1Pe 1:2) God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew.
Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah?
How he pleads with God against Israel, saying,
3 "Lord, they have killed Your prophets and destroyed Your altars.
I alone am left, and they seek my life"?(1Ki 19:10. 41Ki 19:18)
But what is the divine reply to him?
"I have kept for Myself seven thousand men,
who have not bowed the knee to Baal."(1Ki 19:18. 5Ro 9:27)
So then at this present time there is a remnant according
to the election of grace.
6 And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise grace
would no longer be grace. But if it is by works, then is it no longer
by grace; otherwise work would no longer be work.
7 (Ro 9:18; 2Co 3:14) What then? Israel has not obtained what it was
seeking. But the elect obtained it, and the rest were hardened.
8 (Dt 29:4; Isa 29:10) As it is written:
"God has given them a spirit of slumber,
eyes that would not see
and ears that would not hear,
to this very day."(Isa 29:10.)
9 (Ps 69:22-23) And David says:
"Let their table become a snare and a trap,
a stumbling block and a retribution to them.
10 (Ps 69:23) Let their eyes be darkened, so that they may not see,
and always bow down their backs." (Ps 69:22-23.)
[1] I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an
Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.
[2] God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the
scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel,
saying,
[3] Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I
am left alone, and they seek my life.
[4] But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself
seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.
[5] Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to
the election of grace.
[6] And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more
grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no
more work.
[7] What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the
election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded
[8] (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber,
eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto
this day.
[9] And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a
stumbling block, and a recompence unto them:
[10] Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their
back alway.
The Salvation of the Gentiles
11 (Ro 10:19; 11:14) I say then, have they stumbled that
they should fall? God forbid! But through their transgression salvation
has come to the Gentiles, to make them jealous.
12 (Ro 11:25) Now if their transgression means riches for the world,
and their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will
their fullness mean?
13 (Ac 9:15) For I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am
the apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry,
14 (1Co 7:16; Ro 9:3; 1Ti 4:16) if somehow I may make my kinsmen
jealous and may save some of them.
15 For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world,
what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead?
16 (Eze 44:30; Lev 23:10) If the first portion of the dough is holy,
the batch is also holy. And if the root is holy, so are the branches.
17 (Jer 11:16; Eph 2:11-13) But if some of the branches were broken
off, and you, being a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among them
and became a partaker with them of the root
and richness of the olive tree,
18 do not boast against the branches. If you boast,
remember you do not sustain the root, but the root sustains you.
19 You will say then, "The branches were broken off, so that I might
be grafted in."
20 (Ro 12:16; 1Co 10:12) This is correct. They were broken off
because of unbelief, but you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant,
but fear.
21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will
He spare you.
22 (Jn 15:2; 1Co 15:2) Therefore consider the goodness and severity
of God-severity toward those who fell, but goodness toward you,
if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.
23 (2Co 3:16) And these also, if they do not remain in unbelief, will
be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.
24 For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature,
and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree,
how much more will these, who are the natural branches, be grafted
into their own olive tree?
[11] I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but
rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to
provoke them to jealousy.
[12] Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing
of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?
[13] For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the
Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
[14] If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and
might save some of them.
[15] For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what
shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?
[16] For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root
be holy, so are the branches.
[17] And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive
tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and
fatness of the olive tree;
[18] Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the
root, but the root thee.
[19] Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be
graffed in.
[20] Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by
faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
[21] For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also
spare not thee.
[22] Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell,
severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness:
otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
[23] And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed
in: for God is able to graff them in again.
[24] For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and
wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall
these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?
The Restoration of Israel
25 (Lk 21:24; Ro 12:16; 16:25) For I do not want you to be ignorant
of this mystery, brothers, lest you be wise in your own estimation,
for a partial hardening has come upon Israel until the fullness
of the Gentiles has come in.
26 (Isa 59:20; Ps 14:7) And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written:
"The Deliverer will come out of Zion,
and He will remove ungodliness from Jacob";(Isa 59:20.)
27 (Isa 27:9; 59:21) "for this is My covenant with them,
when I shall take away their sins."(Isa 59:20-21; Jer 31:31-34.)
28 (Dt 10:15; Ro 9:5) As concerning the gospel, they are enemies
for your sake, but as regarding the election, they are beloved
for the sake of the patriarchs.
29 (Ro 8:28) For the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable.
30 (Col 3:7) For just as you once were disobedient to God,
but have now received mercy through their disobedience,
31 so these also have now been disobedient, that they also may
receive mercy by the mercy shown to you.
32 (Ro 3:9; Gal 3:22) For God has imprisoned them all in disobedience,
so that He might be merciful to all.
33 (Ro 2:4; Eph 3:10) O the depth of the riches and wisdom
and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable are His judgments
and unfathomable are His ways!
34 (Isa 40:13; 1Co 2:16) "For who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has become His counselor?"(Isa 40:13.)
35 (Job 35:7; 41:11) "Or who has first given to Him,
and it shall be repaid to him?" (Job 35:7; 41:11.)
36 (Ro 16:27; 1Co 8:6) For from Him and through Him
and to Him are all things.
To Him be glory forever! Amen.
[25] For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery,
lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is
happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
[26] And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come
out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
[27] For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
[28] As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as
touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
[29] For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
[30] For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained
mercy through their unbelief:
[31] Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they
also may obtain mercy.
[32] For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy
upon all.
[33] O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how
unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
[34] For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his
counseller?
[35] Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him
again?
[36] For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be
glory for ever. Amen.
Romans 12
The New Life in Christ
1 (1Pe 2:5; Ro 6:13; 6:16) I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies
of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy,
and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service of worship.
2 (Ro 12:1; 1Pe 1:14) Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed
by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good
and acceptable and perfect will of God.
3 (Ro 1:5; 11:20) For I say, through the grace given to me,
to everyone among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought
to think, but to think with sound judgment, according to the measure
of faith God has distributed to every man.
4 (1Co 12:12-14) For just as we have many parts in one body,
and not all parts have the same function,
5 (1Co 10:17; 12:20) so we, being many, are one body in Christ,
and all are parts of one another.
6 (Ac 13:1; 1Co 13:2) We have diverse gifts according to the grace
that is given to us: if prophecy, according to the proportion of faith;
7 (Ac 13:1; Eph 4:11) if service, in serving; he who teaches, in teaching;
8 (2Co 9:7; 1Co 12:28) he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives,
with generosity; he who rules, with diligence; he who shows mercy,
with cheerfulness.
[1] I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye
present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is
your reasonable service.
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.
[3] For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among
you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to
think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of
faith.
[4] For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the
same office:
[5] So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of
another.
[6] Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us,
whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
[7] Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on
teaching;
[8] Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with
simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with
cheerfulness.
Rules of the Christian Life
9 (1Ti 1:5; 2Co 6:6)Let love be without hypocrisy. Hate what is evil.
Cleave to what is good.
10 (Php 2:3; Heb 13:1) Be devoted to one another with brotherly love;
prefer one another in honor,
11 (Ac 18:25) do not be lazy in diligence, be fervent in spirit,
serve the Lord,
12 (Heb 10:36; Ac 1:14) rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering,
persevere in prayer,
13 (2Co 9:1; 1Ti 3:2) contribute to the needs of the saints,
practice hospitality.
14 (Mt 5:44; Lk 6:28) Bless those who persecute you; bless,
and do not curse.
15 (Heb 13:3; Job 30:25) Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep
with those who weep.
16 (Ro 11:25; 15:5) Be of the same mind toward one another.
Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.
Do not pretend to be wiser than you are.
17 (Pr 20:22; Mt 5:39) Repay no one evil for evil. Commend what is
honest in the sight of all men.
18 (Mk 9:50; Ro 14:19; Mt 5:9) If it is possible, as much as it depends
on you, live peaceably with all men.
19 (Dt 32:35; Pr 24:29) Beloved, do not avenge yourselves,
but rather give place to God's wrath, for it is written:
"Vengeance is Mine. I will repay,"(Dt 32:35.) says the Lord.
20 (Pr 25:21-22; Mt 5:44) Therefore
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him a drink;
for in doing so you will heap coals of fire on his head."(Pr 25:21-22.)
21 (1Pe 3:9) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
[9] Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to
that which is good.
[10] Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour
preferring one another;
[11] Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
[12] Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in
prayer;
[13] Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
[14] Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
[15] Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
[16] Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but
condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
[17] Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight
of all men.
[18] If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all
men.
[19] Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto
wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
[20] Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him
drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
[21] Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 13
Subjection to Authorities
1 (Da 2:21; Jn 19:11) Let every person be subject to the governing
authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that
exist are appointed by God.
2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists what God has appointed,
and those who resist will incur judgment.
3 Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil works. Do you wish
to have no fear of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have
praise from him,
4 (2Ch 19:6; Ro 12:19) for he is the servant of God for your good.
But if you do what is evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword
in vain, for he is the servant of God, an avenger to execute wrath
upon him who practices evil.
5 (Ecc 8:2; 1Pe 2:19) So it is necessary to be in subjection, not only
because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience.
6 For this reason you also pay taxes, for they are God's servants,
devoting themselves to this very thing.
7 (Mt 17:25; 22:21) Render to all what is due them: taxes to whom taxes
are due, respect to whom respect is due, fear to whom fear is due,
and honor to whom honor is due.
[1] Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power
but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
[2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:
and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
[3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou
then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have
praise of the same:
[4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that
which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is
the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
[5] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for
conscience sake.
[6] For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers,
attending continually upon this very thing.
[7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due;
custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Brotherly Love
8 (Ro 13:10; Mt 7:12) Owe no one anything, except to love one another,
for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
9 (Lev 19:18; Mt 19:18-19; Ex 20:12-17) For the commandments,
"You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal,
You shall not give false testimony, You shall not covet,"
(Ex 20:13-15, 17; Dt 5:17-19, 21.) and if there are any other commandments,
are summed up in this saying,
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself."(Ps 18:49.)
10 (Ro 13:8) Love works no evil to a neighbor. Therefore love is
the fulfillment of the law.
[8] Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth
another hath fulfilled the law.
[9] For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou
shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet;
and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this
saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
[10] Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling
of the law.
The Approach of the Day of Christ
11 (Eph 5:14; 1Co 15:34) Furthermore, knowing the time, now is the moment
to awake from sleep. For now our salvation is nearer than when we believed.
12 (Eph 5:11; 2Co 6:7) The night is far spent, the day is at hand.
Therefore let us take off the works of darkness and put on the armor
of light.
13 (Gal 5:21; Lk 21:34; Eph 5:18) Let us behave properly, as in the day,
not in carousing and drunkenness, not in immorality and wickedness,
not in strife and envy.
14 (Gal 3:27; Eph 4:24) But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no
provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts.
[11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of
sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
[12] The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off
the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
[13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness,
not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
[14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the
flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
2) Our Daily Bread for 1 December 2023 titled
God's Heart for All
Matthew 11:27-30
27 (Jn 10:15; Mt 28:18; Jn 1:18) "All things are delivered to Me
by My Father, and no one knows the Son, except the Father.
And no one knows the Father, except the Son
and he to whom the Son will reveal Him.
28 (Jn 7:37; 6:37) "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened,
and I will give you rest.
29 (Jer 6:16; Jn 13:15) Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me.
For I am meek and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
[Jer 6:16. ]
30 (1Jn 5:3) For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”
[27] All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the
Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and
he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
[28] Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest.
[29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in
heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
[30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Nine-year-old Dan Gill arrived with his best friend Archie at their
classmate's birthday party. When the mother of the birthday boy saw Archie,
however, she refused him entry. "There aren't enough chairs," she insisted.
Dan offered to sit on the floor to make room for his friend, who was Black,
but the mother said no. Dejected, Dan left their presents with her
and returned home with Archie, the sting of his friend's rejection
searing his heart.
Now, decades later, Dan is a schoolteacher who keeps one empty chair in his
classroom. When students ask why, he explains it's his reminder to "always
have room in the classroom for anyone."
A heart for all people can be seen in Jesus' welcoming life: "Come to me, all
you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28).
This invitation may seem to contradict the "first to the Jew" scope of Jesus'
ministry (Romans 1:16). But the gift of salvation is for all people who place
their faith in Jesus. "This is true for everyone who believes," Paul wrote,
"no matter who we are" (3:22 nlt).
We rejoice then at Christ's invitation to all: "Take my yoke upon you and
learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for
your souls" (Matthew 11:29). For all seeking His rest, His open heart awaits.
By: Patricia Raybon
Reflect & Pray
What was your situation when you accepted God's gift of salvation?
Who do you know whose heart Jesus is calling?
Dear Jesus, You called me when others didn't.
Thank You for offering me salvation and love.
For further study, read Keeping the Faith: The Cost of Following Christ.
3) From The Billy Graham Evangelical Ministry Association
Words in Season - Scripture Memory Tools
Week 3 - Saved Now and forever Day 6 - Eternal Life, Beginning now
John 10:28 - I give them eternal life. They shall never perish,
nor shall anyone snatch them from My hand.
28 and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish,
neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
In C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce, one of the Spirits in heaven, identifying
himself as George MacDonald, makes some startling statements on the nature of
eternal life. Depending upon the individual's choice for or against Christ,
MacDonald says, everything in life takes on the character of haven or hell.
"At the end of ALL THINGS, when the sun rises here (in heaven) and the twilight
turns to blackness down there, the Blessed will say, 'We have never lived
anywhere except in Heaven,' and the Lost, 'We were always in Hell.'
And both will speak truly" - From the Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis.
Lewis was not trying to make a theological case, but to demonstrate
a principle: eternal life begins now.
The choices that we make for or against obedience to God, the life we live,
the patterns we establish, all move us in one direction of the other.
And when we have decided to choose obedience to God (the forsakeness of sin),
when we give ourselves fully into his hands, he is able to take the worst of
circumstances and redeem them for our good, use them to mature us in his image.
Again Jesus says in John 10:28
"I give them eternal life. They shall never perish,
nor shall anyone snatch them from My hand. "
In Christ is a very secure place to be. No experience is lost, no pain is
wasted. Everything in our lives is redeemed by God for our benefit.
Application
a) How have I experienced the truth that "eternal life begins now"?
b) How can this verse help me put life in perspective during times
of stress and anxiety?
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 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 facity, 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 notherern 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
1st Day of the month
1) Pray for an outpouring of God's Holy Spirit on Canada
(
Joel 2:28 And it will be that, afterwards,
I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
then your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream
dreams, and your young men will see visions.
28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon
all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men
shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
Acts 2:17 "In the last days it shall be," says God, "
that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall
prophesy, your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream
dreams.
17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God,
I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh:
And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
And your young men shall see visions,
And your old men shall dream dreams:
)
2) Pray that the heart of our Prime Minister
would be directed to do that which pleases God
(Prov 21:1 The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord,
as the rivers of water; He turns it to any place He will.
1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD,
As the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
)
Advent Day 6
From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle - Joel Heck
"The Incarnation was God's 'weak moment':
when Omnipotence becomes a baby in a manger it
has 'weakened' itself....The temptation ...
is precisely a temptation to evade
the self-imposed weaknesses, to be strong, omnipotent,
again- to make stones into bread,
to be emperor of the world, to do 'levitations'.
The weakness was the strength." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Lewis' Collected Letters, Ill, pp. 409ff.)
Strength in Weakness
In this age of professional athletes, health clubs, bodybuilding,
and advances in medical science, nutrition, and natural foods,
we have trouble identifying with the idea of strength in weakness.
The apostle Paul did also, at first, until God spoke to him of
the sufficiency of his grace. Jesus himself showed strength
in weakness at the time he was tempted by the devil, as Lewis
wrote in this letter. More than that, the Incarnation is
the best example of weakness self-imposed weakness.
How can weakness be strength? When I tell my spouse, or even my children,
"I'm sorry," I may seem weak. But they don't think of it as weakness.
Only a strong person can apologize. When I share some of my innermost
thoughts, I am vulnerable. However, when I open myself to another person,
I often find it strengthens the relationship. When I realize my own
strengths and weaknesses, I learn to rely on other people.
That, too, is strength. God put us into the body of Christ to be dependent
on one another. That's strength in weakness,
because it draws on the strengths of others.
So when God says, "My power is made perfect in weakness," we can believe it.
When I learn to rely on God's grace, instead of my own strength, God works
in me. I leave matters in God's hands. I wait upon the Spirit (Acts 1:4).
I trust that God is working out his plan (Rom. 8:28). He is "able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine..." (Eph. 3:20). God said it.
That should settle it.
Prayer: Lord, teach us to know that our weak moments are so often
the times when your strength is at work in us. Amen.
9 (Php 4:13; 2Co 12:10; Isa 40:29-31) But He said to me,
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."
Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
Fulfilling Service
... They perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple'
-Luke 1:22b
My title is meant to have double meanings.
Zechariah indubitably completed his service in the Temple, and he
certainly found it gratifying as he did so. Subsequently, his wife
and he consummated their marriage, and she praised God for looking
favourably upon her and taking away her disgrace for not yet having borne
a child.
Moreover, those who waited for Zechariah at the Temple discerned
another aspect of the priest's service-that he had seen a vision.
What else could they deduce when he returned later than expected
from offering the incense and reappeared stricken with muteness?
Nevertheless, his face must have displayed great bewilderment
and perhaps bliss at the thought of having a child in his old age.
To what service has God called you? Have you experienced any moments
of fulfillment lately? Have you received from anyone (representing God?)
good news that refreshed you with wonder? Has a member of your family
encountered any situation that nourished him/her with great exhilaration?
prayer
Generous God, thank you for the gifts of service. Amen.
Read Luke 1:21-25.
21 The people waited for Zechariah, and wondered why he waited
so long in the temple.
22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They perceived
that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he made signs to them
and remained speechless.
23 As soon as the days of his service were fulfilled,
he departed to his own home.
24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months
she hid herself, saying,
25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,
to take away my reproach among men."
From the Ah-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimmler
FIRST FRIDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ADVENTure!
9 (Lk 2:14; Mt 23:39) The crowds that went before Him
and that followed Him cried out:
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
"Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!"(Ps 118:26.)
Hosanna in the highest!" MATTHEW 21:9
Advent is a great ADVENTure. Just like Christ's adventure into Jerusalem
on Palm Sunday As you read today's Scripture, what is it about this
ADVENTure that stands out for you? If you had beer there as part of the
crowd in the Palm Sunday parade, what would you have been thinking?
I am reminded of the story about the little girl who home from
worship and asked her parents. "Who's Anna?" When neither Mom nor
Dad could understand what she was asking, they queried, ''Why are you
asking that question?" The girl simply responded, "In church we're always
singing, 'Who's Anna? Who's Anna'?l' And I don't even know her!"
Advent reminds us that any time we are in the presence of "he who comes
In the name of the Lord," we are on an extraordinary ADVENTure! In many
ways, the beginning of our Advent journey this week is similar to Christ's
journey on Palm Sunday: from Jerusalem .. . through the streets and
villages . . . to the cross . . . and finally to the empty tomb! Because of His
ADVENTure, we are able to shout. "Hosanna--save us,. Lord!" during our
ADVENTure to Bethlehem. .. and then beyond to Good Friday and 'Easter'!
enjoy your ADVENTure in the Lord today!
PRAYER: Lord, we all love a parade. especially when we know how your parade
leads to an empty tomb! Encourage us this day to be ADVENTurous
people as we humbly follow you. We are blessed because you have first
blessed us. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Matthew 21:1-11
Matthew 21
The Triumphant Entry Into Jerusalem
Mk 11:1-11; Lk 19:28-38; Jn 12:12-19
1 (Mt 24:3; 26:30) When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage,
on the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,
2 saying to them, "Go over into the village opposite you,
and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her.
Untie them and bring them to Me.
3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them.'
And he will send them immediately."
4 (Mt 1:22; Jn 12:15) All this was done to fulfill
what was spoken by the prophet, saying:
5 (Isa 62:11; Ge 49:10) "Tell the daughter of Zion,
'Look, your King is coming to you,
humble, and sitting on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'Zec 9:9."
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them.
7 They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their garments on them,
and He sat on them.
8 (2Ki 9:13) A very large crowd spread their garments on the road.
Others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
9 (Lk 2:14; Mt 23:39) The crowds that went before Him
and that followed Him cried out:
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' (Ps 118:26.)
Hosanna in the highest!"
10 When He entered Jerusalem, the entire city was moved,
saying, "Who is He?"
11 (Lk 7:16; Jn 6:14) The crowds said, "This is Jesus,
the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee."
From On Eagle's wings Day 6
Alert and ready by Gary Watts (Lutheran) Vancouver, BC
Mark 13:33
33 (Eph 6:18) Take heed, watch and pray.
For you do not know when the time will come.
[33] Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.
"Evacuation Alert!" my phone kept flashing. In 2023 many people experienced
stress and uncertainty caused by wildfires. Thousands were evacuated and,
sadly, some saw flames consume their homes.
The summer I participated in th eBible Camp in Behchoko, NWT. When we arrived,
the town was engulfed in thick smoke. Amazingly, this did not dampen the
enthusiasm of the children. We had a fantastic experience together, and
enjoyed the hospitality of the First Nations leaders. However, as Bible Camp
ended, the people of Behchoko were evacuated to Yellowknife. Unfortunately,
the flames continued to spread, and the entire population of Yellowknife also
had to be evacuated.
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival". Being alert, awaiting news of a
fast-approaching forest fire, may evoke deep fear and uncertainty. During
Advent we anticipate God's arrival in Jesus - being alert to the coming good
news. As believers we can offer our worst fears to God in exchange for his
peace and strength, and face the future with hope as we watch for his glorious
return.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to kno the Salvation is for all for the Lord is
coming back for those who have acceptted Him.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, You called me when others didn't.
Thank You for offering me salvation and love."
Pray to the Lord and pray to preach the eternal Gift of Salvation.
Pray to the Lord and pray seek him daily.
Pray to the Lord and pray know that there is nothing to fear in the Lord.
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 an outpouring of God's Holy Spirit on Canada
Pray that the heart of our Prime Minister
would be directed to do that which pleases God
Prayer: Generous God, thank you for the gifts of service. Amen.
Pray: Gracious Lord, thank you for including us in your intentions
for the growth of faith. Amen.
Pray: Lord, we all love a parade. especially when we know how your parade
leads to an empty tomb! Encourage us this day to be ADVENTurous
people as we humbly follow you. We are blessed because you have first
blessed us. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray: Creator god, we thank you for coming to us in Jesus and saving us
for sin's destructive power. Be Lord in our lives and hearts as we look
forward to you coming again. Amen.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) Romans 11, Romans 12, Romans 13
Romans 11
The Remnant of Israel
1 (1Sa 12:22; 2Co 11:22) I say then, has God rejected His people?
God forbid! For I also am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham,
of the tribe of Benjamin.
2 (1Pe 1:2) God has not rejected His people whom He foreknew.
Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah?
How he pleads with God against Israel, saying,
3 "Lord, they have killed Your prophets and destroyed Your altars.
I alone am left, and they seek my life"?(1Ki 19:10. 41Ki 19:18)
But what is the divine reply to him?
"I have kept for Myself seven thousand men,
who have not bowed the knee to Baal."(1Ki 19:18. 5Ro 9:27)
So then at this present time there is a remnant according
to the election of grace.
6 And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; otherwise grace
would no longer be grace. But if it is by works, then is it no longer
by grace; otherwise work would no longer be work.
7 (Ro 9:18; 2Co 3:14) What then? Israel has not obtained what it was
seeking. But the elect obtained it, and the rest were hardened.
8 (Dt 29:4; Isa 29:10) As it is written:
"God has given them a spirit of slumber,
eyes that would not see
and ears that would not hear,
to this very day."(Isa 29:10.)
9 (Ps 69:22-23) And David says:
"Let their table become a snare and a trap,
a stumbling block and a retribution to them.
10 (Ps 69:23) Let their eyes be darkened, so that they may not see,
and always bow down their backs." (Ps 69:22-23.)
[1] I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an
Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.
[2] God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the
scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel,
saying,
[3] Lord, they have killed thy prophets, and digged down thine altars; and I
am left alone, and they seek my life.
[4] But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself
seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the image of Baal.
[5] Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to
the election of grace.
[6] And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more
grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no
more work.
[7] What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the
election hath obtained it, and the rest were blinded
[8] (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of slumber,
eyes that they should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto
this day.
[9] And David saith, Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a
stumbling block, and a recompence unto them:
[10] Let their eyes be darkened, that they may not see, and bow down their
back alway.
The Salvation of the Gentiles
11 (Ro 10:19; 11:14) I say then, have they stumbled that
they should fall? God forbid! But through their transgression salvation
has come to the Gentiles, to make them jealous.
12 (Ro 11:25) Now if their transgression means riches for the world,
and their failure means riches for the Gentiles, how much more will
their fullness mean?
13 (Ac 9:15) For I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am
the apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry,
14 (1Co 7:16; Ro 9:3; 1Ti 4:16) if somehow I may make my kinsmen
jealous and may save some of them.
15 For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world,
what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead?
16 (Eze 44:30; Lev 23:10) If the first portion of the dough is holy,
the batch is also holy. And if the root is holy, so are the branches.
17 (Jer 11:16; Eph 2:11-13) But if some of the branches were broken
off, and you, being a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among them
and became a partaker with them of the root
and richness of the olive tree,
18 do not boast against the branches. If you boast,
remember you do not sustain the root, but the root sustains you.
19 You will say then, "The branches were broken off, so that I might
be grafted in."
20 (Ro 12:16; 1Co 10:12) This is correct. They were broken off
because of unbelief, but you stand by faith. Do not be arrogant,
but fear.
21 For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will
He spare you.
22 (Jn 15:2; 1Co 15:2) Therefore consider the goodness and severity
of God-severity toward those who fell, but goodness toward you,
if you continue in His goodness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off.
23 (2Co 3:16) And these also, if they do not remain in unbelief, will
be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again.
24 For if you were cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature,
and were grafted contrary to nature into a cultivated olive tree,
how much more will these, who are the natural branches, be grafted
into their own olive tree?
[11] I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but
rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to
provoke them to jealousy.
[12] Now if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the diminishing
of them the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness?
[13] For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the
Gentiles, I magnify mine office:
[14] If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and
might save some of them.
[15] For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what
shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead?
[16] For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root
be holy, so are the branches.
[17] And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive
tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and
fatness of the olive tree;
[18] Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the
root, but the root thee.
[19] Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be
graffed in.
[20] Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by
faith. Be not highminded, but fear:
[21] For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also
spare not thee.
[22] Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell,
severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in his goodness:
otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.
[23] And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed
in: for God is able to graff them in again.
[24] For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and
wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree: how much more shall
these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree?
The Restoration of Israel
25 (Lk 21:24; Ro 12:16; 16:25) For I do not want you to be ignorant
of this mystery, brothers, lest you be wise in your own estimation,
for a partial hardening has come upon Israel until the fullness
of the Gentiles has come in.
26 (Isa 59:20; Ps 14:7) And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written:
"The Deliverer will come out of Zion,
and He will remove ungodliness from Jacob";(Isa 59:20.)
27 (Isa 27:9; 59:21) "for this is My covenant with them,
when I shall take away their sins."(Isa 59:20-21; Jer 31:31-34.)
28 (Dt 10:15; Ro 9:5) As concerning the gospel, they are enemies
for your sake, but as regarding the election, they are beloved
for the sake of the patriarchs.
29 (Ro 8:28) For the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable.
30 (Col 3:7) For just as you once were disobedient to God,
but have now received mercy through their disobedience,
31 so these also have now been disobedient, that they also may
receive mercy by the mercy shown to you.
32 (Ro 3:9; Gal 3:22) For God has imprisoned them all in disobedience,
so that He might be merciful to all.
33 (Ro 2:4; Eph 3:10) O the depth of the riches and wisdom
and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable are His judgments
and unfathomable are His ways!
34 (Isa 40:13; 1Co 2:16) "For who has known the mind of the Lord?
Or who has become His counselor?"(Isa 40:13.)
35 (Job 35:7; 41:11) "Or who has first given to Him,
and it shall be repaid to him?" (Job 35:7; 41:11.)
36 (Ro 16:27; 1Co 8:6) For from Him and through Him
and to Him are all things.
To Him be glory forever! Amen.
[25] For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery,
lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is
happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.
[26] And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come
out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:
[27] For this is my covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins.
[28] As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as
touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes.
[29] For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.
[30] For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained
mercy through their unbelief:
[31] Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they
also may obtain mercy.
[32] For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy
upon all.
[33] O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how
unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
[34] For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his
counseller?
[35] Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him
again?
[36] For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be
glory for ever. Amen.
Romans 12
The New Life in Christ
1 (1Pe 2:5; Ro 6:13; 6:16) I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies
of God, that you present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy,
and acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service of worship.
2 (Ro 12:1; 1Pe 1:14) Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed
by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is the good
and acceptable and perfect will of God.
3 (Ro 1:5; 11:20) For I say, through the grace given to me,
to everyone among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought
to think, but to think with sound judgment, according to the measure
of faith God has distributed to every man.
4 (1Co 12:12-14) For just as we have many parts in one body,
and not all parts have the same function,
5 (1Co 10:17; 12:20) so we, being many, are one body in Christ,
and all are parts of one another.
6 (Ac 13:1; 1Co 13:2) We have diverse gifts according to the grace
that is given to us: if prophecy, according to the proportion of faith;
7 (Ac 13:1; Eph 4:11) if service, in serving; he who teaches, in teaching;
8 (2Co 9:7; 1Co 12:28) he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives,
with generosity; he who rules, with diligence; he who shows mercy,
with cheerfulness.
[1] I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye
present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is
your reasonable service.
[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the
renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable,
and perfect, will of God.
[3] For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among
you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to
think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of
faith.
[4] For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the
same office:
[5] So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of
another.
[6] Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us,
whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
[7] Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on
teaching;
[8] Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with
simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with
cheerfulness.
Rules of the Christian Life
9 (1Ti 1:5; 2Co 6:6)Let love be without hypocrisy. Hate what is evil.
Cleave to what is good.
10 (Php 2:3; Heb 13:1) Be devoted to one another with brotherly love;
prefer one another in honor,
11 (Ac 18:25) do not be lazy in diligence, be fervent in spirit,
serve the Lord,
12 (Heb 10:36; Ac 1:14) rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering,
persevere in prayer,
13 (2Co 9:1; 1Ti 3:2) contribute to the needs of the saints,
practice hospitality.
14 (Mt 5:44; Lk 6:28) Bless those who persecute you; bless,
and do not curse.
15 (Heb 13:3; Job 30:25) Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep
with those who weep.
16 (Ro 11:25; 15:5) Be of the same mind toward one another.
Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.
Do not pretend to be wiser than you are.
17 (Pr 20:22; Mt 5:39) Repay no one evil for evil. Commend what is
honest in the sight of all men.
18 (Mk 9:50; Ro 14:19; Mt 5:9) If it is possible, as much as it depends
on you, live peaceably with all men.
19 (Dt 32:35; Pr 24:29) Beloved, do not avenge yourselves,
but rather give place to God's wrath, for it is written:
"Vengeance is Mine. I will repay,"(Dt 32:35.) says the Lord.
20 (Pr 25:21-22; Mt 5:44) Therefore
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him a drink;
for in doing so you will heap coals of fire on his head."(Pr 25:21-22.)
21 (1Pe 3:9) Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
[9] Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to
that which is good.
[10] Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour
preferring one another;
[11] Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
[12] Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in
prayer;
[13] Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
[14] Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
[15] Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
[16] Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but
condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
[17] Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight
of all men.
[18] If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all
men.
[19] Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto
wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
[20] Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him
drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
[21] Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 13
Subjection to Authorities
1 (Da 2:21; Jn 19:11) Let every person be subject to the governing
authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that
exist are appointed by God.
2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists what God has appointed,
and those who resist will incur judgment.
3 Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil works. Do you wish
to have no fear of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have
praise from him,
4 (2Ch 19:6; Ro 12:19) for he is the servant of God for your good.
But if you do what is evil, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword
in vain, for he is the servant of God, an avenger to execute wrath
upon him who practices evil.
5 (Ecc 8:2; 1Pe 2:19) So it is necessary to be in subjection, not only
because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience.
6 For this reason you also pay taxes, for they are God's servants,
devoting themselves to this very thing.
7 (Mt 17:25; 22:21) Render to all what is due them: taxes to whom taxes
are due, respect to whom respect is due, fear to whom fear is due,
and honor to whom honor is due.
[1] Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power
but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
[2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God:
and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
[3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou
then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have
praise of the same:
[4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that
which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is
the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
[5] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for
conscience sake.
[6] For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers,
attending continually upon this very thing.
[7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due;
custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Brotherly Love
8 (Ro 13:10; Mt 7:12) Owe no one anything, except to love one another,
for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
9 (Lev 19:18; Mt 19:18-19; Ex 20:12-17) For the commandments,
"You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal,
You shall not give false testimony, You shall not covet,"
(Ex 20:13-15, 17; Dt 5:17-19, 21.) and if there are any other commandments,
are summed up in this saying,
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself."(Ps 18:49.)
10 (Ro 13:8) Love works no evil to a neighbor. Therefore love is
the fulfillment of the law.
[8] Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth
another hath fulfilled the law.
[9] For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou
shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet;
and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this
saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
[10] Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling
of the law.
The Approach of the Day of Christ
11 (Eph 5:14; 1Co 15:34) Furthermore, knowing the time, now is the moment
to awake from sleep. For now our salvation is nearer than when we believed.
12 (Eph 5:11; 2Co 6:7) The night is far spent, the day is at hand.
Therefore let us take off the works of darkness and put on the armor
of light.
13 (Gal 5:21; Lk 21:34; Eph 5:18) Let us behave properly, as in the day,
not in carousing and drunkenness, not in immorality and wickedness,
not in strife and envy.
14 (Gal 3:27; Eph 4:24) But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no
provision for the flesh to fulfill its lusts.
[11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of
sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
[12] The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off
the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
[13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness,
not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
[14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the
flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
2) Our Daily Bread for 1 December 2023 titled
God's Heart for All
Matthew 11:27-30
27 (Jn 10:15; Mt 28:18; Jn 1:18) "All things are delivered to Me
by My Father, and no one knows the Son, except the Father.
And no one knows the Father, except the Son
and he to whom the Son will reveal Him.
28 (Jn 7:37; 6:37) "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened,
and I will give you rest.
29 (Jer 6:16; Jn 13:15) Take My yoke upon you, and learn from Me.
For I am meek and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
[Jer 6:16. ]
30 (1Jn 5:3) For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”
[27] All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the
Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and
he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.
[28] Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give
you rest.
[29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in
heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
[30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Nine-year-old Dan Gill arrived with his best friend Archie at their
classmate's birthday party. When the mother of the birthday boy saw Archie,
however, she refused him entry. "There aren't enough chairs," she insisted.
Dan offered to sit on the floor to make room for his friend, who was Black,
but the mother said no. Dejected, Dan left their presents with her
and returned home with Archie, the sting of his friend's rejection
searing his heart.
Now, decades later, Dan is a schoolteacher who keeps one empty chair in his
classroom. When students ask why, he explains it's his reminder to "always
have room in the classroom for anyone."
A heart for all people can be seen in Jesus' welcoming life: "Come to me, all
you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28).
This invitation may seem to contradict the "first to the Jew" scope of Jesus'
ministry (Romans 1:16). But the gift of salvation is for all people who place
their faith in Jesus. "This is true for everyone who believes," Paul wrote,
"no matter who we are" (3:22 nlt).
We rejoice then at Christ's invitation to all: "Take my yoke upon you and
learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for
your souls" (Matthew 11:29). For all seeking His rest, His open heart awaits.
By: Patricia Raybon
Reflect & Pray
What was your situation when you accepted God's gift of salvation?
Who do you know whose heart Jesus is calling?
Dear Jesus, You called me when others didn't.
Thank You for offering me salvation and love.
For further study, read Keeping the Faith: The Cost of Following Christ.
3) From The Billy Graham Evangelical Ministry Association
Words in Season - Scripture Memory Tools
Week 3 - Saved Now and forever Day 6 - Eternal Life, Beginning now
John 10:28 - I give them eternal life. They shall never perish,
nor shall anyone snatch them from My hand.
28 and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish,
neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
In C.S. Lewis's The Great Divorce, one of the Spirits in heaven, identifying
himself as George MacDonald, makes some startling statements on the nature of
eternal life. Depending upon the individual's choice for or against Christ,
MacDonald says, everything in life takes on the character of haven or hell.
"At the end of ALL THINGS, when the sun rises here (in heaven) and the twilight
turns to blackness down there, the Blessed will say, 'We have never lived
anywhere except in Heaven,' and the Lost, 'We were always in Hell.'
And both will speak truly" - From the Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis.
Lewis was not trying to make a theological case, but to demonstrate
a principle: eternal life begins now.
The choices that we make for or against obedience to God, the life we live,
the patterns we establish, all move us in one direction of the other.
And when we have decided to choose obedience to God (the forsakeness of sin),
when we give ourselves fully into his hands, he is able to take the worst of
circumstances and redeem them for our good, use them to mature us in his image.
Again Jesus says in John 10:28
"I give them eternal life. They shall never perish,
nor shall anyone snatch them from My hand. "
In Christ is a very secure place to be. No experience is lost, no pain is
wasted. Everything in our lives is redeemed by God for our benefit.
Application
a) How have I experienced the truth that "eternal life begins now"?
b) How can this verse help me put life in perspective during times
of stress and anxiety?
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 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 facity, 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 notherern 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
1st Day of the month
1) Pray for an outpouring of God's Holy Spirit on Canada
(
Joel 2:28 And it will be that, afterwards,
I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
then your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream
dreams, and your young men will see visions.
28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon
all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men
shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
Acts 2:17 "In the last days it shall be," says God, "
that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall
prophesy, your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream
dreams.
17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God,
I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh:
And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
And your young men shall see visions,
And your old men shall dream dreams:
)
2) Pray that the heart of our Prime Minister
would be directed to do that which pleases God
(Prov 21:1 The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord,
as the rivers of water; He turns it to any place He will.
1 The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD,
As the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.
)
Advent Day 6
From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle - Joel Heck
"The Incarnation was God's 'weak moment':
when Omnipotence becomes a baby in a manger it
has 'weakened' itself....The temptation ...
is precisely a temptation to evade
the self-imposed weaknesses, to be strong, omnipotent,
again- to make stones into bread,
to be emperor of the world, to do 'levitations'.
The weakness was the strength." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Lewis' Collected Letters, Ill, pp. 409ff.)
Strength in Weakness
In this age of professional athletes, health clubs, bodybuilding,
and advances in medical science, nutrition, and natural foods,
we have trouble identifying with the idea of strength in weakness.
The apostle Paul did also, at first, until God spoke to him of
the sufficiency of his grace. Jesus himself showed strength
in weakness at the time he was tempted by the devil, as Lewis
wrote in this letter. More than that, the Incarnation is
the best example of weakness self-imposed weakness.
How can weakness be strength? When I tell my spouse, or even my children,
"I'm sorry," I may seem weak. But they don't think of it as weakness.
Only a strong person can apologize. When I share some of my innermost
thoughts, I am vulnerable. However, when I open myself to another person,
I often find it strengthens the relationship. When I realize my own
strengths and weaknesses, I learn to rely on other people.
That, too, is strength. God put us into the body of Christ to be dependent
on one another. That's strength in weakness,
because it draws on the strengths of others.
So when God says, "My power is made perfect in weakness," we can believe it.
When I learn to rely on God's grace, instead of my own strength, God works
in me. I leave matters in God's hands. I wait upon the Spirit (Acts 1:4).
I trust that God is working out his plan (Rom. 8:28). He is "able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine..." (Eph. 3:20). God said it.
That should settle it.
Prayer: Lord, teach us to know that our weak moments are so often
the times when your strength is at work in us. Amen.
9 (Php 4:13; 2Co 12:10; Isa 40:29-31) But He said to me,
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."
Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 Corinthians 12:9
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
Fulfilling Service
... They perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple'
-Luke 1:22b
My title is meant to have double meanings.
Zechariah indubitably completed his service in the Temple, and he
certainly found it gratifying as he did so. Subsequently, his wife
and he consummated their marriage, and she praised God for looking
favourably upon her and taking away her disgrace for not yet having borne
a child.
Moreover, those who waited for Zechariah at the Temple discerned
another aspect of the priest's service-that he had seen a vision.
What else could they deduce when he returned later than expected
from offering the incense and reappeared stricken with muteness?
Nevertheless, his face must have displayed great bewilderment
and perhaps bliss at the thought of having a child in his old age.
To what service has God called you? Have you experienced any moments
of fulfillment lately? Have you received from anyone (representing God?)
good news that refreshed you with wonder? Has a member of your family
encountered any situation that nourished him/her with great exhilaration?
prayer
Generous God, thank you for the gifts of service. Amen.
Read Luke 1:21-25.
21 The people waited for Zechariah, and wondered why he waited
so long in the temple.
22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They perceived
that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he made signs to them
and remained speechless.
23 As soon as the days of his service were fulfilled,
he departed to his own home.
24 After those days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months
she hid herself, saying,
25 "Thus the Lord has dealt with me in the days when He looked on me,
to take away my reproach among men."
From the Ah-HAs of Advent by Rich Bimmler
FIRST FRIDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ADVENTure!
9 (Lk 2:14; Mt 23:39) The crowds that went before Him
and that followed Him cried out:
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
"Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!"(Ps 118:26.)
Hosanna in the highest!" MATTHEW 21:9
Advent is a great ADVENTure. Just like Christ's adventure into Jerusalem
on Palm Sunday As you read today's Scripture, what is it about this
ADVENTure that stands out for you? If you had beer there as part of the
crowd in the Palm Sunday parade, what would you have been thinking?
I am reminded of the story about the little girl who home from
worship and asked her parents. "Who's Anna?" When neither Mom nor
Dad could understand what she was asking, they queried, ''Why are you
asking that question?" The girl simply responded, "In church we're always
singing, 'Who's Anna? Who's Anna'?l' And I don't even know her!"
Advent reminds us that any time we are in the presence of "he who comes
In the name of the Lord," we are on an extraordinary ADVENTure! In many
ways, the beginning of our Advent journey this week is similar to Christ's
journey on Palm Sunday: from Jerusalem .. . through the streets and
villages . . . to the cross . . . and finally to the empty tomb! Because of His
ADVENTure, we are able to shout. "Hosanna--save us,. Lord!" during our
ADVENTure to Bethlehem. .. and then beyond to Good Friday and 'Easter'!
enjoy your ADVENTure in the Lord today!
PRAYER: Lord, we all love a parade. especially when we know how your parade
leads to an empty tomb! Encourage us this day to be ADVENTurous
people as we humbly follow you. We are blessed because you have first
blessed us. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Matthew 21:1-11
Matthew 21
The Triumphant Entry Into Jerusalem
Mk 11:1-11; Lk 19:28-38; Jn 12:12-19
1 (Mt 24:3; 26:30) When they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage,
on the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples,
2 saying to them, "Go over into the village opposite you,
and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her.
Untie them and bring them to Me.
3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, 'The Lord has need of them.'
And he will send them immediately."
4 (Mt 1:22; Jn 12:15) All this was done to fulfill
what was spoken by the prophet, saying:
5 (Isa 62:11; Ge 49:10) "Tell the daughter of Zion,
'Look, your King is coming to you,
humble, and sitting on a donkey,
and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.'Zec 9:9."
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus commanded them.
7 They brought the donkey and the colt, laid their garments on them,
and He sat on them.
8 (2Ki 9:13) A very large crowd spread their garments on the road.
Others cut down branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
9 (Lk 2:14; Mt 23:39) The crowds that went before Him
and that followed Him cried out:
"Hosanna to the Son of David!
'Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!' (Ps 118:26.)
Hosanna in the highest!"
10 When He entered Jerusalem, the entire city was moved,
saying, "Who is He?"
11 (Lk 7:16; Jn 6:14) The crowds said, "This is Jesus,
the prophet from Nazareth of Galilee."
From On Eagle's wings Day 6
Alert and ready by Gary Watts (Lutheran) Vancouver, BC
Mark 13:33
33 (Eph 6:18) Take heed, watch and pray.
For you do not know when the time will come.
[33] Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.
"Evacuation Alert!" my phone kept flashing. In 2023 many people experienced
stress and uncertainty caused by wildfires. Thousands were evacuated and,
sadly, some saw flames consume their homes.
The summer I participated in th eBible Camp in Behchoko, NWT. When we arrived,
the town was engulfed in thick smoke. Amazingly, this did not dampen the
enthusiasm of the children. We had a fantastic experience together, and
enjoyed the hospitality of the First Nations leaders. However, as Bible Camp
ended, the people of Behchoko were evacuated to Yellowknife. Unfortunately,
the flames continued to spread, and the entire population of Yellowknife also
had to be evacuated.
The word Advent means "coming" or "arrival". Being alert, awaiting news of a
fast-approaching forest fire, may evoke deep fear and uncertainty. During
Advent we anticipate God's arrival in Jesus - being alert to the coming good
news. As believers we can offer our worst fears to God in exchange for his
peace and strength, and face the future with hope as we watch for his glorious
return.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to kno the Salvation is for all for the Lord is
coming back for those who have acceptted Him.
Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, You called me when others didn't.
Thank You for offering me salvation and love."
Pray to the Lord and pray to preach the eternal Gift of Salvation.
Pray to the Lord and pray seek him daily.
Pray to the Lord and pray know that there is nothing to fear in the Lord.
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 an outpouring of God's Holy Spirit on Canada
Pray that the heart of our Prime Minister
would be directed to do that which pleases God
Prayer: Generous God, thank you for the gifts of service. Amen.
Pray: Gracious Lord, thank you for including us in your intentions
for the growth of faith. Amen.
Pray: Lord, we all love a parade. especially when we know how your parade
leads to an empty tomb! Encourage us this day to be ADVENTurous
people as we humbly follow you. We are blessed because you have first
blessed us. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray: Creator god, we thank you for coming to us in Jesus and saving us
for sin's destructive power. Be Lord in our lives and hearts as we look
forward to you coming again. Amen.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.