Day 342 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 8 December 2023 reflections - 13th Day of Advent
Day 342, 8 December 2023
1) Acts 27, Acts 28
Acts 27
Paul Sails for Rome
1 (Ac 25:25; 10:1; 25:12) When it was decided that we should sail into Italy,
they handed Paul and some other prisoners over to a centurion of the Augustan
Regiment, named Julius.
2 (Ac 19:29) Boarding a ship from Adramyttium, we put out to sea, meaning
to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica,
was with us.
3 (Ac 24:23; 28:16) The next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul
kindly and gave him leave to go to his friends and be given care.
4 (Ac 4:36) From there we put out to sea and sailed under the lee of Cyprus,
because the winds were against us.
5 (Ac 6:9; 13:13) Sailing across the sea off of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came
to Myra, a city of Lycia.
6 (Ac 28:11) There the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing to Italy,
and he put us on board.
7 (Ac 27:21; 2:11) We sailed slowly for many days, and arrived with difficulty
off Cnidus, and as the wind did not allow us to proceed, we sailed under the
lee of Crete off Salmone.
8 Sailing past it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens,
near the city of Lasea.
9 (Lev 23:27-29; Nu 29:7) As much time had been lost and as the voyage was now
dangerous, because the Day of Atonement was already over, Paul advised them,
10 saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will be with injury and much
loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also of our lives."
11 But the centurion was persuaded more by the captain and the owner of the
ship than by what Paul said.
12 Since the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority decided to
sail on from there, if somehow we might reach Phoenix, a harbour in Crete,
facing southwest and northwest, and winter there.
[1] And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they
delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a
centurion of Augustus' band.
[2] And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by
the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being
with us.
[3] And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated
Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.
[4] And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because
the winds were contrary.
[5] And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to
Myra, a city of Lycia.
[6] And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy;
and he put us therein.
[7] And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over
against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over
against Salmone;
[8] And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair
havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.
[9] Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous,
because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,
[10] And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt
and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.
[11] Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the
ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.
[12] And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part
advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice,
and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south
west and north west.
The Storm at Sea
13 When a south wind blew gently, supposing that they had obtained the
necessary conditions, they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete.
14 (Mk 4:37) But soon afterward a tempestuous wind swept through, called the
Euroclydon.(Or Northeaster.)
15 When the ship was overpowered and could not head into the wind, we let her
drift.
16 Drifting under the lee of an island called Cauda, we could scarcely secure
the rowboat.
17 (Ac 27:29; 27:26) When they had hoisted it aboard, they used ropes to
undergird the ship. And fearing that they might run aground on the sand of
Syrtis, they let down the mast, and so were driven.
18 (Jnh 1:5; Ac 27:38) We were violently tossed by the storm. The next day
they threw cargo overboard.
19 On the third day we threw the tackle of the ship overboard with our own
hands.
20 When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small storm was
upon us, all hope that we should be saved was lost.
21 After they had long abstained from food, Paul stood in their midst and
said, "Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete,
incurring this injury and loss.
22 (Ac 27:25; 27:36) But now I advise you to take courage, for there will be
no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.
23 (Ac 5:19; 23:11) For there stood by me this night the angel of God to whom
I belong and whom I serve,
24 (Ac 23:11; Ge 19:29) saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand before
Caesar. And, look! God has given you all those who sail with you.'
25 (Ro 4:20-21) Therefore, men, take courage, for I believe God that it will
be exactly as it was told to me.
26 (Ac 28:1; 27:17) Nevertheless, we must be shipwrecked on a certain island."
27 When the fourteenth night came, while we were drifting in the Adriatic Sea,
about midnight the sailors supposed that they were approaching land.
28 They took soundings and found the water to be one hundred and twenty
feet deep.(Gk. 20 orguias, about 37 meters.) When they had gone a little
farther, they took soundings again and found it to be ninety feet deep.
(Gk. 15 orguias, about 27 meters.)
29 (Ac 27:17) Fearing that we might run aground on the rocks, they dropped
four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come.
30 (Ac 27:16) When the sailors strove to abandon ship and lowered the rowboat
into the sea, under the pretext of lowering anchors out of the bow,
31 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, "Unless these sailors
remain in the ship, you cannot be saved."
32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the rowboat and let her fall off.
33 As day was about to dawn, Paul asked them all to eat, saying, "Today is
the fourteenth day that you have waited and continued without food, having
eaten nothing.
34 (Mt 10:30; 1Ki 1:52) So I urge you to eat. This is for your preservation,
for not a hair shall fall from your head."
35 (Mt 15:36) When he had said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God
in the presence of them all. And when he had broken it he began to eat.
36 (Ac 27:22) Then they were all encouraged, and they also ate food
themselves.
37 (Ac 2:41; 7:14) In all we were 276 persons on the ship.
38 (Jnh 1:5) When they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship
and threw the wheat into the sea.
[13] And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained
their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.
[14] But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called
Euroclydon.
[15] And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we
let her drive.
[16] And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much
work to come by the boat:
[17] Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship;
and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so
were driven.
[18] And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they
lightened the ship;
[19] And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the
ship.
[20] And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small
tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.
[21] But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and
said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from
Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
[22] And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of
any man's life among you, but of the ship.
[23] For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom
I serve,
[24] Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo,
God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.
[25] Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be
even as it was told me.
[26] Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.
[27] But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down
in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some
country;
[28] And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a
little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.
[29] Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four
anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.
[30] And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had
let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast
anchors out of the foreship,
[31] Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in
the ship, ye cannot be saved.
[32] Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
[33] And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat,
saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued
fasting, having taken nothing.
[34] Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health:
for there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.
[35] And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in
presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.
[36] Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.
[37] And we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and sixteen
souls.
[38] And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out
the wheat into the sea.
The Shipwreck
39 (Ac 28:1) When it was day, they did not recognize the land. But they
noticed a bay with a shore, into which they were determined to run the ship if
possible.
40 Casting off the anchors, they left them in the sea while loosening the
ropes that secured the rudders. Then they hoisted the mainsail to the wind
and made for shore.
41 But striking a sandbar where two seas met, they ran the ship aground.
The bow stuck and remained immovable, but the stern was broken up by the
violent surf.
42 The soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim
away and escape.
43 (Ac 27:3) But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, prevented them from
their intent and ordered those who could swim to abandon ship first
and get to land,
44 (Ac 27:22) and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship.
And in this way they all escaped safely to land.
[39] And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a
certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were
possible, to thrust in the ship.
[40] And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto
the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the
wind, and made toward shore.
[41] And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground;
and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part
was broken with the violence of the waves.
[42] And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them
should swim out, and escape.
[43] But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose;
and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into
the sea, and get to land:
[44] And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship.
And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.
Acts 28
Paul in Malta
1 (Ac 27:26; 27:39) When they had escaped, they learned that the island
was called Malta.
2 (Ac 28:4; Ro 1:14) The natives showed extraordinary kindness, for they
kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because of the rain and the cold.
3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper
driven out by the heat fastened on his hand.
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand,
they said to one another, "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
6 They expected him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But while
they waited and saw no harm befall him, they changed their minds
and said that he was a god.
7 In that area was an estate of the chief man of the island, named Publius,
who had welcomed us and courteously housed us for three days.
8 (Ac 9:40; Mt 9:18) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with
a fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and, placing his hands on him, prayed
and healed him.
9 When this happened, the rest on the island who had diseases also came
and were healed.
10 They honored us in many ways. And when we sailed, they provided us
with necessary supplies.
[1] And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita.
[2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because
of the cold.
[3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
[6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to
him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
[7] In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously.
[8] And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on
him, and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed:
[10] Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they
laded us with such things as were necessary.
Paul Arrives in Rome
11 (Ac 27:6) After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose
figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.
12 Landing at Syracuse, we waited there for three days.
13 From there we circled around and sailed to Rhegium.
After one day the south wind blew, and the next day we arrived at Puteoli.
14 There we found brothers, and were invited to remain with them for seven
days. And so we went to Rome.
15 From there, when the brothers heard of us, they traveled as far as the
Forum of Appius (A town on the Appian Way about 55 miles from Rome.)
and the Three Taverns
(Or Three Inns, also on the Appian Way and about 10 miles closer to Rome.)
to meet us. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
16 (Ac 27:3; 24:23) When we arrived at Rome, the centurion handed
the prisoners over to the captain of the guard. But Paul was allowed
to remain by himself with the soldier who guarded him.
[11] And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had
wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.
[12] And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.
[13] And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after
one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:
[14] Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven
days: and so we went toward Rome.
[15] And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as
far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked
God, and took courage.
[16] And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the
captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a
soldier that kept him.
Paul Preaches in Rome
17 (Ac 25:8; 6:14) After three days Paul called the leaders of the Jews
together. When they had assembled, he said to them, "Brothers, having done
nothing contrary to our people or the customs of our fathers, I was delivered
as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.
18 (Ac 26:31-32) When they had examined me, they were determined to release
me, because there was no charge against me deserving death.
19 (Ac 26:32; 25:21) But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal
to Caesar, not that I had any charge to bring against my nation.
20 (Ac 21:33; 23:6) For this reason I have asked to see you and speak with
you, because I am bound with this chain for the hope of Israel."
21 (Ac 22:5) They said to him, "We have not received any letters from Judea
concerning you, and none of the brothers that have come have reported
or spoken any evil of you.
22 (Ac 24:14; 1Pe 2:12) But we think it is proper to hear from you what you
think. For concerning this sect,
we know that it is spoken against everywhere."
23 (Ac 19:8; 8:35) When they had arranged a day to be with him, many came
to him at his residence. From morning until evening he explained and solemnly
testified of the kingdom of God to them, persuading them concerning Jesus
from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets.
24 (Ac 14:4; 17:4-5) Some believed what was said, but some did not believe.
25 (Mt 15:7) Being in disagreement with one another, they were dismissed after
Paul had said one word: "The Holy Spirit accurately spoke to our fathers
through Isaiah the prophet,
26 (Eze 12:2; Isa 6:9-10) 'Go to this people and say:
You shall certainly hear, but never understand;
and you shall certainly see, but never perceive;
27 for the heart of this people has grown dull.
Their ears are hard of hearing,
and they have closed their eyes,
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.'
28 (Lk 3:6; Ro 11:11) "Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation
of God has been sent to the Gentiles. They will hear it!"
29 When he had said these words, the Jews departed and disputed greatly among
themselves.
30 Paul remained two whole years in his own rented house. He welcomed all who
came to him,
31 (Ac 28:23; Mt 4:23) boldly and freely preaching the kingdom of God
and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.
[17] And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the
Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and
brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of
our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of
the Romans.
[18] Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was
no cause of death in me.
[19] But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto
Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.
[20] For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to
speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this
chain.
[21] And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea
concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any
harm of thee.
[22] But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning
this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.
[23] And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his
lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading
them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the
prophets, from morning till evening.
[24] And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.
[25] And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that
Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet
unto our fathers,
[26] Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall
not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:
[27] For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of
hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their
eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should
be converted, and I should heal them.
[28] Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto
the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
[29] And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great
reasoning among themselves.
[30] And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all
that came in unto him,
[31] Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern
the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
2) Our Daily Bread for 8 December 2023 Titled
Prejudice and God's Love By James Banks|
John 1:43-51
The Calling of Philip and Nathanael
43 The next day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip,
and said to him, "Follow Me."
44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom
Moses in the law, as well as the prophets, wrote, Jesus of Nazareth,
the son of Joseph."
46 Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?"
Philip said to him, "Come and see."
47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him and said concerning him,
"Here is an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.
48 Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?"
Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were
under the fig tree, I saw you."
49 Nathanael answered Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God!
You are the King of Israel!"
50 Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under
the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."
51 And He said to him, "Truly, truly I say to you, hereafter you shall see
heaven opened and the angels of God ascending
and descending upon the Son of Man."
[43] The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth
Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.
[44] Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
[45] Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of
whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the
son of Joseph.
[46] And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of
Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.
[47] Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an
Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!
[48] Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and
said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig
tree, I saw thee.
[49] Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God;
thou art the King of Israel.
[50] Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee
under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than
these.
[51] And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye
shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon
the Son of man.
"You're not what I expected. I thought I'd hate you, but I don't." The young
man's words seemed harsh, but they were actually an effort to be kind. I was
studying abroad in his country, a land that decades earlier had been at war
with my own. We were participating in a group discussion in class together,
and I noticed he seemed distant. When I asked if I'd offended him somehow,
he responded, "Not at all ... And that's the thing. My grandfather was killed
in that war, and I hated your people and your country for it. But now I see
how much we have in common, and that surprises me.
I don't see why we can't be friends."
Prejudice is as old as the human race. Two millennia ago, when Nathanael first
heard about Jesus living in Nazareth, his bias was evident: "Can there any good
thing come out of Nazareth?" he asked (John 1:46). Nathanael lived in the
region of Galilee, like Jesus. He probably thought God's Messiah would come
from another place; even other Galileans looked down on Nazareth because it
seemed to be an unremarkable little village.
This much is clear. Nathanael's response didn't stop Jesus from loving him,
and he was transformed as he became Jesus' disciple. "You are the Son of God!"
Nathanael later declared (v. 49). There is no bias that can stand against
God's transforming love.
What biases have you faced or wrestled with?
How does Jesus' love help you deal with them?
Help me, loving God, to overcome any biases
I may have and to love others with the love You alone can give.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 4 -The Blessings of Grace Day 6 - A Reasonable Alternative
Isaiah 1:18
18 (Ps 51:7; Rev 7:14) "Come now, and let us reason together, "
says the Lord. Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
"Is Christianity Reasonable?" Linda Wanted to Know. "I've heard all my life
that faith is a crutch, an invention of weak minds to assure them
of some order in the world."
Linda was not alone in her objection; thinking people for generations
have been asking themselves the same question.
God is not intimidated by our questions; in fact, he confronts the issue
head-on in the Scriptures. "Let us reason together," the Lord invites.
Even according to the most basic of human reasoning,
faith is a reasonable alternative , a rational choice for a thinking person.
God indicates in his Word that confession and forgiveness are "reasonable".
"Think!" God says. "You sin, and you know it. You are not even able to be
true to your own principles. You cannot deal with your sin by will power
or effort. But I can deal with it! I can forgive it - and I will"
We cannot come to faith in God through Christ by intellect alone, of course.
Our spirits much reach out in faith, beyond what we can see. But intellect
supports faith; trusting in Christ is an eminently rational decision.
In Deut 30:1-20 , God set before the people a choice: Life or Death, blessing
or cursing. "Choose Life!" he tells them. We have the same choice.
The ultimate decision is thus simplified, the 'rational' alternative becomes
clear. We can choose death, by attempting to control our own destinies ,
or life, by giving ourselves fully into the hand of the Master.
Application
a) Why is the choice to acknowledge my sin and receive forgiveness a
'Rational choice'?
b) What are the alternatives to such a decision?
c) What other aspects of God's word
and work in my life seem 'reasonable' to me?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Haggai 2:7-9
7 (1Ki 8:11; Isa 60:7) And I will shake all the nations,
and they will come with the wealth of all nations,
and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of Hosts.
8 (Isa 60:17) The silver is mine, and the gold is Mine,
says the Lord of Hosts.
9 (Isa 9:6-7) The glory of this latter house will be greater
than the former, says the Lord of Hosts. And in this place
I will give peace, says the Lord of Hosts.
7 and I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations
shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts.
8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts.
9 The glory of this latter house shall be greater
than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place
will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Help in Times of Temptation
James 1:12-18
Trial and Temptation
12 (Jas 2:5; 1Co 9:25; 2Ti 4:8) Blessed is the man who endures temptation,
for when he is tried, he will receive the crown of life,
which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
13 Let no man say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God,"
for God cannot be tempted with evil; neither does He tempt anyone.
14 But each man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed.
15 (Job 15:35; Ps 7:14) Then, when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin;
and when sin is finished, it brings forth death.
16 (Jas 1:19; 2:5) Do not err, my beloved brothers.
17 (Mal 3:6; Nu 23:19; Jn 3:27) Every good gift and every perfect gift
is from above and comes down from the Father of lights,
with whom is no change or shadow of turning.
18 (1Pe 1:23; Jn 1:13; Rev 14:4) Of His own will He brought us forth with
the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.
12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried,
he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised
to them that love him.
13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God:
for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
14 but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust,
and enticed.
15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin:
and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,
and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,
neither shadow of turning.
18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth,
that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 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
8th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Church will deepen its commitment to prayer
and never cease to call upon God
(
Is 62:6
6 (Isa 52:8; Ps 74:2) I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem,
who shall never hold their peace day nor night.
You who remind the Lord, do not keep silent;
6 I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold
their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,
Ps 5:3
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) O Lord, in the morning You will hear my voice;
in the morning I will direct my prayer to You, and I will watch expectantly.
3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD;
In the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
Ps 55:17
17 Evening and morning and at noon, I will make my complaint and murmur,
and He will hear my voice.
17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud:
And he shall hear my voice.
)
b) Pray for the province of Manitoba
I) Pray for the leaders of Manitoba, that God's Spirit would influence them
to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings
and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life
in all godliness and honesty,
3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and
acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved and to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 for kings, and for all that are in authority;
that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4 who will have all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
II) Pray for the churches of the province, that they would be lighthouses
beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding the Hope Campaign
and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus .
Advent Day 13
From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle
{The great French writer] "Montaigne became kittenish with his kitten but
she never talked philosophy to him. Everywhere the great enters the
little-its power to do so is almost the test of its greatness." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Miracles, p. 147.)
The Great Enters the Little
Why was Jesus born in such a small town? Because it was the town of King
David, and Jesus was descended from the family of David. Although Micah said
of Bethlehem, "you are small among the clans of Judah," that was in God's
plan from the beginning. The size of the town didn't matter.
God so often surprises us by doing big things in little places, by
resisting the proud and exalting the humble, by choosing ordinary people
to do great things, and, in general, by doing the unexpected. What more
humble circumstances could we imagine than an unmarried, pregnant teenage
girl, with her betrothed husband, hurrying nearly a hundred miles from
little Nazareth to little Bethlehem? What could be more humbling than
enrolling in a census late in a pregnancy, settling for less than ideal
accommodations, and giving birth far from the centers of power? The great
enters the little. God becomes a baby. Think of it. The creator of the
universe stoops to become a child.
Lewis calls it a test of greatness. In what ways have we
stooped to enter the little? Have we taken the time to
serve meals to the poor in a soup kitchen?
Have we visited the sick and imprisoned?
Have we clothed the naked? Have we welcomed the stranger?
If not, perhaps today is the day to change all that.
Jesus, you came to us in such humble circumstances.
Remind us that pride comes before a fall and that you
exalt the lowly, as you did Mary and Joseph. Amen.
16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,
and the Baby lying in a manger.
Luke 2:16
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
FRIDAY, SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT
Confirmation
43 But why is this granted to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
-Luke 1:43
Elizabeth's words to Mary provided numerous confirmations of the message from
Gabriel. First, she knew that Mary was pregnant before it could possibly
show. Second, she knew Mary was pregnant with her Lord! That insight could
only have come by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit
within her.
Next, Elizabeth told Mary that the child she carried had leaped for Joy.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth's child had recognized the One
for Whom he would be a forerunner.
Finally, Elizabeth pronounced another blessing upon Mary for having
believed what had been prophesied. Thank God that Mary had concurred
with Gabriel's revelations!
Most of us don't experience angels coming to us in a dream or vision
and announcing what will take place in our future,
but we can read God's promises in his Word. What kinds of
promises for this life, our faith and eternal life has God
given us in the Scriptures? Do we take God at his Word?
prayer
Gracious Lord, confirm your Word so that we may receive your
new creation with Joy! Amen.
Read Luke 1:39-45.
Mary Visits Elizabeth
39 In those days Mary arose and quickly went into the hill country,
to a city of Judah,
40 and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped
in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
42 She spoke out with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
43 But why is this granted to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 Indeed, as soon as the sound of your greeting came to my ears,
the baby in my womb leaped for joy.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
SECOND FRIDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AMAZEMENT!
2 (Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them the light has shined.ISAIAH 9:2
I like being with little kids. They are so amazing because they get amazed
at so many little things! "Look. Mom, a wiggly worm!" Gramps, did you
know bees can smell fear? And the riddles and jokes they laugh at are
silly, like 'Did you know a raisin is a grape with a sunburn?" and "Why was
there a bee in the man's souls'? Because it was alphabet soups'
Amazing, isn't it. how amazing little kids are, as well as adults who hang on
to their amazement although life? Advent is a time for amazement, big
time! We ambassadors of Advent continue to sense the amazing grace of
God's love for us. especially through Scriptures like Isaiah 9:1-7. We too are
people who "walk in darkness" because of sin, and we too have "seen a
great light"--Jesus Christ ! This Child has been born for us. God's Son has
been given to us . . . as a gift! It has nothing whatsoever to do with what we
have done or should have done or had better get done. No way. It's not
about us; it's about him, Jesus Christ! Amazing. indeed!
Amazed means filled with wonder! Join me and others in singing
'And wonders of his love, and wonders of his love, and wonders.
wonders of his love '!
Lord, you are such an amazing God. to love us so much that you sent
Jesus to earth for us. Help us never to lose this amazing message of joy
and Forgiveness in you. Help us to be life lithe kids again, who laugh and
play and trust in others, because you are the Trusted One. Thanks for
making us ambassadors of amazement.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 9:1-7.
Isaiah 9
The Coming King
1 (2Ki 15:29; 2Ch 16:4) Nevertheless there shall be no more gloom
for her who was in anguish. In the former time He contemptuously
treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,
but in the latter time He shall make it glorious,
by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, in Galilee of the nations.
2 (Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them the light has shined.
3 (1Sa 30:16; Isa 26:15) You have multiplied the nation
and increased the joy;
they rejoice before You
according to the joy of harvest
and as men rejoice
when they divide the spoil.
4 (Isa 14:25; 10:26-27) For You have broken the yoke of his burden
and the bar of his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor
as in the day of Midian's defeat.
5 For all the sandals of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 (Isa 7:14; Mt 28:18; Lk 2:11) For unto us a child is born,
unto us a son is given,
and the government shall be upon his shoulder.
And his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 (Isa 37:32; Da 2:44) Of the increase of his government and peace
there shall be no end,
upon the throne of David
and over his kingdom,
to order it and to establish it
with justice and with righteousness,
from now until forever.
The zeal of the Lord of Hosts
will perform this.
From On Eagle's wings Day 13
Titled Surrender Emma Abrol (Ecumenical)
On Eagle's Wings Office Volunteer Edmonton, Alberta
Luke 1:38
38 Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. May it be unto me according
to your word." Then the angel departed from her.
[38] And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according
to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
During Advent I often reflect on Mary's wholehearted
obedience to God. Mary chose to humbly surrender her will to
become an agent of light in this dark world, regardless of the
cost. Surely saying 'yes' took great faith and courage.
When my husband and I discussed the opportunity for him to
join the staff of On Eagle's Wings, something within us was
stirred. We recognized we were experiencing a significant God
moment. As we surrendered our hearts to him, we were filled
with a deep peace. We sensed God's calling and together chose
to say "yes!"
Surrender to God is an intentional act of the will which
happens moment by moment. It may be challenging for us to
remain in this beautiful posture of submission, especially when
we face cultural pressures to be self-reliant, dependent on no
one. Perhaps the challenge is an inner conflict, causing us to
doubt God's faithfulness and goodness. This oscillation
between two states can cause us to feel unsettled, anxious, and
ill at ease. However, the moment we wholeheartedly submit
ourselves to God, striving begins to cease.
Heavenly Father, give us courage and faith to submit our
lives to you anew. Open our eyes to see opportunities for
bringing life and light into this dark world. Amen.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to him to guide you in every step you take.
Pray to the Lord: "Help me, loving God, to overcome any biases
I may have and to love others with the love You alone can give."
Pray to the Lord and pray to give all your sins over to Him to be purified.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know that all wealth belongs to the creator.
Pray to the Lord and pray to endure temptation through nd with Him!
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 that the Church will deepen its commitment to prayer
and never cease to call upon God.
Pray: Jesus, you came to us in such humble circumstances.
Remind us that pride comes before a fall and that you
exalt the lowly, as you did Mary and Joseph. Amen.
Pray: Gracious Lord, confirm your Word so that we may receive your
new creation with Joy! Amen.
Pray: Lord, you are such an amazing God. to love us so much that you sent
Jesus to earth for us. Help us never to lose this amazing message of joy
and Forgiveness in you. Help us to be life lithe kids again, who laugh and
play and trust in others, because you are the Trusted One. Thanks for
making us ambassadors of amazement.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray : "Heavenly Father, give us courage and faith to submit our
lives to you anew. Open our eyes to see opportunities for
bringing life and light into this dark world. Amen."
Pray that those using digital Bible formats in Libya will remain
undiscovered by the authorities.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) Acts 27, Acts 28
Acts 27
Paul Sails for Rome
1 (Ac 25:25; 10:1; 25:12) When it was decided that we should sail into Italy,
they handed Paul and some other prisoners over to a centurion of the Augustan
Regiment, named Julius.
2 (Ac 19:29) Boarding a ship from Adramyttium, we put out to sea, meaning
to sail along the coasts of Asia. Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica,
was with us.
3 (Ac 24:23; 28:16) The next day we landed at Sidon. And Julius treated Paul
kindly and gave him leave to go to his friends and be given care.
4 (Ac 4:36) From there we put out to sea and sailed under the lee of Cyprus,
because the winds were against us.
5 (Ac 6:9; 13:13) Sailing across the sea off of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came
to Myra, a city of Lycia.
6 (Ac 28:11) There the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing to Italy,
and he put us on board.
7 (Ac 27:21; 2:11) We sailed slowly for many days, and arrived with difficulty
off Cnidus, and as the wind did not allow us to proceed, we sailed under the
lee of Crete off Salmone.
8 Sailing past it with difficulty, we came to a place called Fair Havens,
near the city of Lasea.
9 (Lev 23:27-29; Nu 29:7) As much time had been lost and as the voyage was now
dangerous, because the Day of Atonement was already over, Paul advised them,
10 saying, "Men, I perceive that this voyage will be with injury and much
loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also of our lives."
11 But the centurion was persuaded more by the captain and the owner of the
ship than by what Paul said.
12 Since the harbor was not suitable to winter in, the majority decided to
sail on from there, if somehow we might reach Phoenix, a harbour in Crete,
facing southwest and northwest, and winter there.
[1] And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they
delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a
centurion of Augustus' band.
[2] And entering into a ship of Adramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by
the coasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian of Thessalonica, being
with us.
[3] And the next day we touched at Sidon. And Julius courteously entreated
Paul, and gave him liberty to go unto his friends to refresh himself.
[4] And when we had launched from thence, we sailed under Cyprus, because
the winds were contrary.
[5] And when we had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, we came to
Myra, a city of Lycia.
[6] And there the centurion found a ship of Alexandria sailing into Italy;
and he put us therein.
[7] And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over
against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over
against Salmone;
[8] And, hardly passing it, came unto a place which is called The fair
havens; nigh whereunto was the city of Lasea.
[9] Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous,
because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them,
[10] And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt
and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives.
[11] Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the
ship, more than those things which were spoken by Paul.
[12] And because the haven was not commodious to winter in, the more part
advised to depart thence also, if by any means they might attain to Phenice,
and there to winter; which is an haven of Crete, and lieth toward the south
west and north west.
The Storm at Sea
13 When a south wind blew gently, supposing that they had obtained the
necessary conditions, they weighed anchor and sailed along the shore of Crete.
14 (Mk 4:37) But soon afterward a tempestuous wind swept through, called the
Euroclydon.(Or Northeaster.)
15 When the ship was overpowered and could not head into the wind, we let her
drift.
16 Drifting under the lee of an island called Cauda, we could scarcely secure
the rowboat.
17 (Ac 27:29; 27:26) When they had hoisted it aboard, they used ropes to
undergird the ship. And fearing that they might run aground on the sand of
Syrtis, they let down the mast, and so were driven.
18 (Jnh 1:5; Ac 27:38) We were violently tossed by the storm. The next day
they threw cargo overboard.
19 On the third day we threw the tackle of the ship overboard with our own
hands.
20 When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small storm was
upon us, all hope that we should be saved was lost.
21 After they had long abstained from food, Paul stood in their midst and
said, "Men, you should have listened to me and not have set sail from Crete,
incurring this injury and loss.
22 (Ac 27:25; 27:36) But now I advise you to take courage, for there will be
no loss of life among you, but only of the ship.
23 (Ac 5:19; 23:11) For there stood by me this night the angel of God to whom
I belong and whom I serve,
24 (Ac 23:11; Ge 19:29) saying, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand before
Caesar. And, look! God has given you all those who sail with you.'
25 (Ro 4:20-21) Therefore, men, take courage, for I believe God that it will
be exactly as it was told to me.
26 (Ac 28:1; 27:17) Nevertheless, we must be shipwrecked on a certain island."
27 When the fourteenth night came, while we were drifting in the Adriatic Sea,
about midnight the sailors supposed that they were approaching land.
28 They took soundings and found the water to be one hundred and twenty
feet deep.(Gk. 20 orguias, about 37 meters.) When they had gone a little
farther, they took soundings again and found it to be ninety feet deep.
(Gk. 15 orguias, about 27 meters.)
29 (Ac 27:17) Fearing that we might run aground on the rocks, they dropped
four anchors from the stern and prayed for day to come.
30 (Ac 27:16) When the sailors strove to abandon ship and lowered the rowboat
into the sea, under the pretext of lowering anchors out of the bow,
31 Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, "Unless these sailors
remain in the ship, you cannot be saved."
32 Then the soldiers cut away the ropes of the rowboat and let her fall off.
33 As day was about to dawn, Paul asked them all to eat, saying, "Today is
the fourteenth day that you have waited and continued without food, having
eaten nothing.
34 (Mt 10:30; 1Ki 1:52) So I urge you to eat. This is for your preservation,
for not a hair shall fall from your head."
35 (Mt 15:36) When he had said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God
in the presence of them all. And when he had broken it he began to eat.
36 (Ac 27:22) Then they were all encouraged, and they also ate food
themselves.
37 (Ac 2:41; 7:14) In all we were 276 persons on the ship.
38 (Jnh 1:5) When they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship
and threw the wheat into the sea.
[13] And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained
their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete.
[14] But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called
Euroclydon.
[15] And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we
let her drive.
[16] And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much
work to come by the boat:
[17] Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship;
and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so
were driven.
[18] And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they
lightened the ship;
[19] And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the
ship.
[20] And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small
tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away.
[21] But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and
said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from
Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.
[22] And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of
any man's life among you, but of the ship.
[23] For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom
I serve,
[24] Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo,
God hath given thee all them that sail with thee.
[25] Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be
even as it was told me.
[26] Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island.
[27] But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down
in Adria, about midnight the shipmen deemed that they drew near to some
country;
[28] And sounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and when they had gone a
little further, they sounded again, and found it fifteen fathoms.
[29] Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four
anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.
[30] And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had
let down the boat into the sea, under colour as though they would have cast
anchors out of the foreship,
[31] Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in
the ship, ye cannot be saved.
[32] Then the soldiers cut off the ropes of the boat, and let her fall off.
[33] And while the day was coming on, Paul besought them all to take meat,
saying, This day is the fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued
fasting, having taken nothing.
[34] Wherefore I pray you to take some meat: for this is for your health:
for there shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you.
[35] And when he had thus spoken, he took bread, and gave thanks to God in
presence of them all: and when he had broken it, he began to eat.
[36] Then were they all of good cheer, and they also took some meat.
[37] And we were in all in the ship two hundred threescore and sixteen
souls.
[38] And when they had eaten enough, they lightened the ship, and cast out
the wheat into the sea.
The Shipwreck
39 (Ac 28:1) When it was day, they did not recognize the land. But they
noticed a bay with a shore, into which they were determined to run the ship if
possible.
40 Casting off the anchors, they left them in the sea while loosening the
ropes that secured the rudders. Then they hoisted the mainsail to the wind
and made for shore.
41 But striking a sandbar where two seas met, they ran the ship aground.
The bow stuck and remained immovable, but the stern was broken up by the
violent surf.
42 The soldiers' plan was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim
away and escape.
43 (Ac 27:3) But the centurion, wanting to save Paul, prevented them from
their intent and ordered those who could swim to abandon ship first
and get to land,
44 (Ac 27:22) and the rest on planks or on pieces of the ship.
And in this way they all escaped safely to land.
[39] And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a
certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were
possible, to thrust in the ship.
[40] And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto
the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the
wind, and made toward shore.
[41] And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground;
and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part
was broken with the violence of the waves.
[42] And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them
should swim out, and escape.
[43] But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose;
and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into
the sea, and get to land:
[44] And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship.
And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.
Acts 28
Paul in Malta
1 (Ac 27:26; 27:39) When they had escaped, they learned that the island
was called Malta.
2 (Ac 28:4; Ro 1:14) The natives showed extraordinary kindness, for they
kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because of the rain and the cold.
3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper
driven out by the heat fastened on his hand.
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand,
they said to one another, "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
6 They expected him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But while
they waited and saw no harm befall him, they changed their minds
and said that he was a god.
7 In that area was an estate of the chief man of the island, named Publius,
who had welcomed us and courteously housed us for three days.
8 (Ac 9:40; Mt 9:18) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with
a fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and, placing his hands on him, prayed
and healed him.
9 When this happened, the rest on the island who had diseases also came
and were healed.
10 They honored us in many ways. And when we sailed, they provided us
with necessary supplies.
[1] And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita.
[2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because
of the cold.
[3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
[6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to
him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
[7] In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously.
[8] And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on
him, and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed:
[10] Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they
laded us with such things as were necessary.
Paul Arrives in Rome
11 (Ac 27:6) After three months we sailed in an Alexandrian ship whose
figurehead was the Twin Brothers, which had wintered at the island.
12 Landing at Syracuse, we waited there for three days.
13 From there we circled around and sailed to Rhegium.
After one day the south wind blew, and the next day we arrived at Puteoli.
14 There we found brothers, and were invited to remain with them for seven
days. And so we went to Rome.
15 From there, when the brothers heard of us, they traveled as far as the
Forum of Appius (A town on the Appian Way about 55 miles from Rome.)
and the Three Taverns
(Or Three Inns, also on the Appian Way and about 10 miles closer to Rome.)
to meet us. When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage.
16 (Ac 27:3; 24:23) When we arrived at Rome, the centurion handed
the prisoners over to the captain of the guard. But Paul was allowed
to remain by himself with the soldier who guarded him.
[11] And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had
wintered in the isle, whose sign was Castor and Pollux.
[12] And landing at Syracuse, we tarried there three days.
[13] And from thence we fetched a compass, and came to Rhegium: and after
one day the south wind blew, and we came the next day to Puteoli:
[14] Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven
days: and so we went toward Rome.
[15] And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as
far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked
God, and took courage.
[16] And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the
captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a
soldier that kept him.
Paul Preaches in Rome
17 (Ac 25:8; 6:14) After three days Paul called the leaders of the Jews
together. When they had assembled, he said to them, "Brothers, having done
nothing contrary to our people or the customs of our fathers, I was delivered
as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.
18 (Ac 26:31-32) When they had examined me, they were determined to release
me, because there was no charge against me deserving death.
19 (Ac 26:32; 25:21) But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal
to Caesar, not that I had any charge to bring against my nation.
20 (Ac 21:33; 23:6) For this reason I have asked to see you and speak with
you, because I am bound with this chain for the hope of Israel."
21 (Ac 22:5) They said to him, "We have not received any letters from Judea
concerning you, and none of the brothers that have come have reported
or spoken any evil of you.
22 (Ac 24:14; 1Pe 2:12) But we think it is proper to hear from you what you
think. For concerning this sect,
we know that it is spoken against everywhere."
23 (Ac 19:8; 8:35) When they had arranged a day to be with him, many came
to him at his residence. From morning until evening he explained and solemnly
testified of the kingdom of God to them, persuading them concerning Jesus
from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets.
24 (Ac 14:4; 17:4-5) Some believed what was said, but some did not believe.
25 (Mt 15:7) Being in disagreement with one another, they were dismissed after
Paul had said one word: "The Holy Spirit accurately spoke to our fathers
through Isaiah the prophet,
26 (Eze 12:2; Isa 6:9-10) 'Go to this people and say:
You shall certainly hear, but never understand;
and you shall certainly see, but never perceive;
27 for the heart of this people has grown dull.
Their ears are hard of hearing,
and they have closed their eyes,
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.'
28 (Lk 3:6; Ro 11:11) "Therefore let it be known to you that the salvation
of God has been sent to the Gentiles. They will hear it!"
29 When he had said these words, the Jews departed and disputed greatly among
themselves.
30 Paul remained two whole years in his own rented house. He welcomed all who
came to him,
31 (Ac 28:23; Mt 4:23) boldly and freely preaching the kingdom of God
and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.
[17] And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the
Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and
brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of
our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of
the Romans.
[18] Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was
no cause of death in me.
[19] But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto
Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.
[20] For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to
speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this
chain.
[21] And they said unto him, We neither received letters out of Judaea
concerning thee, neither any of the brethren that came shewed or spake any
harm of thee.
[22] But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning
this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.
[23] And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his
lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading
them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the
prophets, from morning till evening.
[24] And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.
[25] And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed, after that
Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the prophet
unto our fathers,
[26] Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall
not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive:
[27] For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of
hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their
eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should
be converted, and I should heal them.
[28] Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto
the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
[29] And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great
reasoning among themselves.
[30] And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all
that came in unto him,
[31] Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern
the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
2) Our Daily Bread for 8 December 2023 Titled
Prejudice and God's Love By James Banks|
John 1:43-51
The Calling of Philip and Nathanael
43 The next day Jesus wanted to go to Galilee, and He found Philip,
and said to him, "Follow Me."
44 Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
45 Philip found Nathanael and said to him, "We have found Him of whom
Moses in the law, as well as the prophets, wrote, Jesus of Nazareth,
the son of Joseph."
46 Nathanael said to him, "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?"
Philip said to him, "Come and see."
47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him and said concerning him,
"Here is an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.
48 Nathanael said to Him, "How do You know me?"
Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were
under the fig tree, I saw you."
49 Nathanael answered Him, "Rabbi, You are the Son of God!
You are the King of Israel!"
50 Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under
the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."
51 And He said to him, "Truly, truly I say to you, hereafter you shall see
heaven opened and the angels of God ascending
and descending upon the Son of Man."
[43] The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth
Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.
[44] Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter.
[45] Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of
whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the
son of Joseph.
[46] And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of
Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.
[47] Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an
Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!
[48] Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and
said unto him, Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig
tree, I saw thee.
[49] Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God;
thou art the King of Israel.
[50] Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee
under the fig tree, believest thou? thou shalt see greater things than
these.
[51] And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye
shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon
the Son of man.
"You're not what I expected. I thought I'd hate you, but I don't." The young
man's words seemed harsh, but they were actually an effort to be kind. I was
studying abroad in his country, a land that decades earlier had been at war
with my own. We were participating in a group discussion in class together,
and I noticed he seemed distant. When I asked if I'd offended him somehow,
he responded, "Not at all ... And that's the thing. My grandfather was killed
in that war, and I hated your people and your country for it. But now I see
how much we have in common, and that surprises me.
I don't see why we can't be friends."
Prejudice is as old as the human race. Two millennia ago, when Nathanael first
heard about Jesus living in Nazareth, his bias was evident: "Can there any good
thing come out of Nazareth?" he asked (John 1:46). Nathanael lived in the
region of Galilee, like Jesus. He probably thought God's Messiah would come
from another place; even other Galileans looked down on Nazareth because it
seemed to be an unremarkable little village.
This much is clear. Nathanael's response didn't stop Jesus from loving him,
and he was transformed as he became Jesus' disciple. "You are the Son of God!"
Nathanael later declared (v. 49). There is no bias that can stand against
God's transforming love.
What biases have you faced or wrestled with?
How does Jesus' love help you deal with them?
Help me, loving God, to overcome any biases
I may have and to love others with the love You alone can give.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 4 -The Blessings of Grace Day 6 - A Reasonable Alternative
Isaiah 1:18
18 (Ps 51:7; Rev 7:14) "Come now, and let us reason together, "
says the Lord. Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD:
though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.
"Is Christianity Reasonable?" Linda Wanted to Know. "I've heard all my life
that faith is a crutch, an invention of weak minds to assure them
of some order in the world."
Linda was not alone in her objection; thinking people for generations
have been asking themselves the same question.
God is not intimidated by our questions; in fact, he confronts the issue
head-on in the Scriptures. "Let us reason together," the Lord invites.
Even according to the most basic of human reasoning,
faith is a reasonable alternative , a rational choice for a thinking person.
God indicates in his Word that confession and forgiveness are "reasonable".
"Think!" God says. "You sin, and you know it. You are not even able to be
true to your own principles. You cannot deal with your sin by will power
or effort. But I can deal with it! I can forgive it - and I will"
We cannot come to faith in God through Christ by intellect alone, of course.
Our spirits much reach out in faith, beyond what we can see. But intellect
supports faith; trusting in Christ is an eminently rational decision.
In Deut 30:1-20 , God set before the people a choice: Life or Death, blessing
or cursing. "Choose Life!" he tells them. We have the same choice.
The ultimate decision is thus simplified, the 'rational' alternative becomes
clear. We can choose death, by attempting to control our own destinies ,
or life, by giving ourselves fully into the hand of the Master.
Application
a) Why is the choice to acknowledge my sin and receive forgiveness a
'Rational choice'?
b) What are the alternatives to such a decision?
c) What other aspects of God's word
and work in my life seem 'reasonable' to me?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Haggai 2:7-9
7 (1Ki 8:11; Isa 60:7) And I will shake all the nations,
and they will come with the wealth of all nations,
and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of Hosts.
8 (Isa 60:17) The silver is mine, and the gold is Mine,
says the Lord of Hosts.
9 (Isa 9:6-7) The glory of this latter house will be greater
than the former, says the Lord of Hosts. And in this place
I will give peace, says the Lord of Hosts.
7 and I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations
shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts.
8 The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts.
9 The glory of this latter house shall be greater
than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place
will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
God's Help in Times of Temptation
James 1:12-18
Trial and Temptation
12 (Jas 2:5; 1Co 9:25; 2Ti 4:8) Blessed is the man who endures temptation,
for when he is tried, he will receive the crown of life,
which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.
13 Let no man say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God,"
for God cannot be tempted with evil; neither does He tempt anyone.
14 But each man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed.
15 (Job 15:35; Ps 7:14) Then, when lust has conceived, it brings forth sin;
and when sin is finished, it brings forth death.
16 (Jas 1:19; 2:5) Do not err, my beloved brothers.
17 (Mal 3:6; Nu 23:19; Jn 3:27) Every good gift and every perfect gift
is from above and comes down from the Father of lights,
with whom is no change or shadow of turning.
18 (1Pe 1:23; Jn 1:13; Rev 14:4) Of His own will He brought us forth with
the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of His creatures.
12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried,
he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised
to them that love him.
13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God:
for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
14 but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust,
and enticed.
15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin:
and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,
and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness,
neither shadow of turning.
18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth,
that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 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
8th Day of the Month
a) Pray that the Church will deepen its commitment to prayer
and never cease to call upon God
(
Is 62:6
6 (Isa 52:8; Ps 74:2) I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem,
who shall never hold their peace day nor night.
You who remind the Lord, do not keep silent;
6 I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold
their peace day nor night: ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,
Ps 5:3
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) O Lord, in the morning You will hear my voice;
in the morning I will direct my prayer to You, and I will watch expectantly.
3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD;
In the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.
Ps 55:17
17 Evening and morning and at noon, I will make my complaint and murmur,
and He will hear my voice.
17 Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud:
And he shall hear my voice.
)
b) Pray for the province of Manitoba
I) Pray for the leaders of Manitoba, that God's Spirit would influence them
to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.
( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,
prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,
2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings
and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life
in all godliness and honesty,
3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and
acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,
4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved and to come
to the knowledge of the truth.
1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 for kings, and for all that are in authority;
that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
4 who will have all men to be saved,
and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
II) Pray for the churches of the province, that they would be lighthouses
beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.
III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding the Hope Campaign
and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus .
Advent Day 13
From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle
{The great French writer] "Montaigne became kittenish with his kitten but
she never talked philosophy to him. Everywhere the great enters the
little-its power to do so is almost the test of its greatness." - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in Miracles, p. 147.)
The Great Enters the Little
Why was Jesus born in such a small town? Because it was the town of King
David, and Jesus was descended from the family of David. Although Micah said
of Bethlehem, "you are small among the clans of Judah," that was in God's
plan from the beginning. The size of the town didn't matter.
God so often surprises us by doing big things in little places, by
resisting the proud and exalting the humble, by choosing ordinary people
to do great things, and, in general, by doing the unexpected. What more
humble circumstances could we imagine than an unmarried, pregnant teenage
girl, with her betrothed husband, hurrying nearly a hundred miles from
little Nazareth to little Bethlehem? What could be more humbling than
enrolling in a census late in a pregnancy, settling for less than ideal
accommodations, and giving birth far from the centers of power? The great
enters the little. God becomes a baby. Think of it. The creator of the
universe stoops to become a child.
Lewis calls it a test of greatness. In what ways have we
stooped to enter the little? Have we taken the time to
serve meals to the poor in a soup kitchen?
Have we visited the sick and imprisoned?
Have we clothed the naked? Have we welcomed the stranger?
If not, perhaps today is the day to change all that.
Jesus, you came to us in such humble circumstances.
Remind us that pride comes before a fall and that you
exalt the lowly, as you did Mary and Joseph. Amen.
16 (Lk 2:7; 2:12) So they came hurrying and found Mary and Joseph,
and the Baby lying in a manger.
Luke 2:16
From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn
FRIDAY, SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT
Confirmation
43 But why is this granted to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
-Luke 1:43
Elizabeth's words to Mary provided numerous confirmations of the message from
Gabriel. First, she knew that Mary was pregnant before it could possibly
show. Second, she knew Mary was pregnant with her Lord! That insight could
only have come by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit
within her.
Next, Elizabeth told Mary that the child she carried had leaped for Joy.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth's child had recognized the One
for Whom he would be a forerunner.
Finally, Elizabeth pronounced another blessing upon Mary for having
believed what had been prophesied. Thank God that Mary had concurred
with Gabriel's revelations!
Most of us don't experience angels coming to us in a dream or vision
and announcing what will take place in our future,
but we can read God's promises in his Word. What kinds of
promises for this life, our faith and eternal life has God
given us in the Scriptures? Do we take God at his Word?
prayer
Gracious Lord, confirm your Word so that we may receive your
new creation with Joy! Amen.
Read Luke 1:39-45.
Mary Visits Elizabeth
39 In those days Mary arose and quickly went into the hill country,
to a city of Judah,
40 and entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped
in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
42 She spoke out with a loud voice, "Blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
43 But why is this granted to me,
that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 Indeed, as soon as the sound of your greeting came to my ears,
the baby in my womb leaped for joy.
45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion
to those things which were told her by the Lord."
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
SECOND FRIDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AMAZEMENT!
2 (Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them the light has shined.ISAIAH 9:2
I like being with little kids. They are so amazing because they get amazed
at so many little things! "Look. Mom, a wiggly worm!" Gramps, did you
know bees can smell fear? And the riddles and jokes they laugh at are
silly, like 'Did you know a raisin is a grape with a sunburn?" and "Why was
there a bee in the man's souls'? Because it was alphabet soups'
Amazing, isn't it. how amazing little kids are, as well as adults who hang on
to their amazement although life? Advent is a time for amazement, big
time! We ambassadors of Advent continue to sense the amazing grace of
God's love for us. especially through Scriptures like Isaiah 9:1-7. We too are
people who "walk in darkness" because of sin, and we too have "seen a
great light"--Jesus Christ ! This Child has been born for us. God's Son has
been given to us . . . as a gift! It has nothing whatsoever to do with what we
have done or should have done or had better get done. No way. It's not
about us; it's about him, Jesus Christ! Amazing. indeed!
Amazed means filled with wonder! Join me and others in singing
'And wonders of his love, and wonders of his love, and wonders.
wonders of his love '!
Lord, you are such an amazing God. to love us so much that you sent
Jesus to earth for us. Help us never to lose this amazing message of joy
and Forgiveness in you. Help us to be life lithe kids again, who laugh and
play and trust in others, because you are the Trusted One. Thanks for
making us ambassadors of amazement.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 9:1-7.
Isaiah 9
The Coming King
1 (2Ki 15:29; 2Ch 16:4) Nevertheless there shall be no more gloom
for her who was in anguish. In the former time He contemptuously
treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,
but in the latter time He shall make it glorious,
by the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, in Galilee of the nations.
2 (Eph 5:8; Mt 4:16) The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwell in the land of the shadow of death,
upon them the light has shined.
3 (1Sa 30:16; Isa 26:15) You have multiplied the nation
and increased the joy;
they rejoice before You
according to the joy of harvest
and as men rejoice
when they divide the spoil.
4 (Isa 14:25; 10:26-27) For You have broken the yoke of his burden
and the bar of his shoulder,
the rod of his oppressor
as in the day of Midian's defeat.
5 For all the sandals of the tramping warriors
and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
6 (Isa 7:14; Mt 28:18; Lk 2:11) For unto us a child is born,
unto us a son is given,
and the government shall be upon his shoulder.
And his name shall be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 (Isa 37:32; Da 2:44) Of the increase of his government and peace
there shall be no end,
upon the throne of David
and over his kingdom,
to order it and to establish it
with justice and with righteousness,
from now until forever.
The zeal of the Lord of Hosts
will perform this.
From On Eagle's wings Day 13
Titled Surrender Emma Abrol (Ecumenical)
On Eagle's Wings Office Volunteer Edmonton, Alberta
Luke 1:38
38 Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. May it be unto me according
to your word." Then the angel departed from her.
[38] And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according
to thy word. And the angel departed from her.
During Advent I often reflect on Mary's wholehearted
obedience to God. Mary chose to humbly surrender her will to
become an agent of light in this dark world, regardless of the
cost. Surely saying 'yes' took great faith and courage.
When my husband and I discussed the opportunity for him to
join the staff of On Eagle's Wings, something within us was
stirred. We recognized we were experiencing a significant God
moment. As we surrendered our hearts to him, we were filled
with a deep peace. We sensed God's calling and together chose
to say "yes!"
Surrender to God is an intentional act of the will which
happens moment by moment. It may be challenging for us to
remain in this beautiful posture of submission, especially when
we face cultural pressures to be self-reliant, dependent on no
one. Perhaps the challenge is an inner conflict, causing us to
doubt God's faithfulness and goodness. This oscillation
between two states can cause us to feel unsettled, anxious, and
ill at ease. However, the moment we wholeheartedly submit
ourselves to God, striving begins to cease.
Heavenly Father, give us courage and faith to submit our
lives to you anew. Open our eyes to see opportunities for
bringing life and light into this dark world. Amen.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to him to guide you in every step you take.
Pray to the Lord: "Help me, loving God, to overcome any biases
I may have and to love others with the love You alone can give."
Pray to the Lord and pray to give all your sins over to Him to be purified.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know that all wealth belongs to the creator.
Pray to the Lord and pray to endure temptation through nd with Him!
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 that the Church will deepen its commitment to prayer
and never cease to call upon God.
Pray: Jesus, you came to us in such humble circumstances.
Remind us that pride comes before a fall and that you
exalt the lowly, as you did Mary and Joseph. Amen.
Pray: Gracious Lord, confirm your Word so that we may receive your
new creation with Joy! Amen.
Pray: Lord, you are such an amazing God. to love us so much that you sent
Jesus to earth for us. Help us never to lose this amazing message of joy
and Forgiveness in you. Help us to be life lithe kids again, who laugh and
play and trust in others, because you are the Trusted One. Thanks for
making us ambassadors of amazement.
In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray : "Heavenly Father, give us courage and faith to submit our
lives to you anew. Open our eyes to see opportunities for
bringing life and light into this dark world. Amen."
Pray that those using digital Bible formats in Libya will remain
undiscovered by the authorities.
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.