Dave Yadallee's personal blog

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 THURSDAY

AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and AWARENESS!



4 (Mk 1:15; Jn 1:14; Ge 3:15) But when the fullness of time came,

God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law,

GALATIANS 4:4



It is hard not to be aware that something is happening during these

weeks before Christmas. isn't it? Whether one is a Christian or not, things

are simply different. Take a look around: sparkling, flashing lights on homes

and lawns, halls decked with boughs of holly, a lot of fa-la-la-ing going

on, little kids and bored dads standing in line to see an old fat guy, store

owners singing their favorite carol: What a Friend We Have in Jesus

and on and on and on. I just read of a town that prohibited the Salvation

Army from having their traditional Santa's ringing bells outside of stores,

because of a noise pollution ordinance. o a smart marketing person

made two signs for the Santa's to hold up. One said "Ding" and the other

said "Dong.' Now that's awareness!



So what's the point? The point is that unless we become intentionally

aware of what Advent and Christmas are all about. we will miss the point!



Today's reading is the point: When it was time, God sent Jesus unto the

world! Perhaps this message has been heard and used so much that it is

hard to keep aware of the meaning of Christmas: God loves us so much

that Jesus was born, died and rose again for us! Sure, go ahead and

wrap gifts. put trees up, bake cookies, say "ho. ho. ho." But as you do so,

continue to be aware that Christ is Christmas ... period! Please do not be

like a friend who says. "Keep Christ in Xmas!" He still doesn't get it!



Prayer



Lord. it was time, and so you came to us. Help us during this Advent

season to be aware that you are already with us, even in the turmoil

and rush of the season. And help us to be ambassadors of your

awareness--an awareness of us and of all people.

In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Read Galatians 4:4-5



4 (Mk 1:15; Jn 1:14; Ge 3:15) But when the fullness of time came,

God sent forth His Son, born from a woman, born under the law,

5 (Gal 3:26; Jn 1:12) to redeem those who were under the law,

that we might receive the adoption as sons.



From On Eagle's wings Day 4



God Has The Best Plans



5 (Ps 37:3; 37:5) Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

and lean not on your own understanding;

6 (1Ch 28:9; Pr 16:3; Jer 10:23) in all your ways acknowledge Him,

and He will direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6 (MEV)



"5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart;

And lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him,

And he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)



In late September, a group of nine from our church embarked on a

car journey to Fort Smith, Northwest Territories to lead a Bible

Camp for children aged 5 to 11. As a grandmother of five and

someone who loves children, I looked forward to a wonderful week

with the kids - perhaps up to 30 of them. I was eager to share

stories, build connections, and meet a few more grandmothers too.

However, God's plan was different from what I had envisioned. The

only grandmothers I encountered were two I introduced myself to

at the grocery store, and not as many children as we had planned

for attended our camp. When it became clear the week would not

unfold as I had pictured in my mind, I prayed for guidance and

wisdom so I could switch gears and adapt to the new

circumstances.

Joseph and Mary had to trust in the Lord our God for their journey

as well. Joseph wanted to release Mary from their engagement

when he found out she was with child. After he heard from God, he

had to switch gears. Together they had to trust when they were

required to make a sudden and unexpected journey to Bethlehem.

A trip that meant Jesus would be born far away from home.

Joseph and Mary submitted their ways to God and placed their

total trust in the Lord even though their circumstances were vastly

different from what they had imagined. Similarly, we can place our

trust in God and his plan even when things don’t go the way we

expect them to. God’s plan is always the best!



Wendy Mather

Bible Camp Volunteer 8



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to be a bold witness about your salvation despite

persecution.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, please help me to believe and have confidence

in You."



Pray to the Lord and pray to confess all your sins to seek His forgiveness.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Lord is always with you.



Pray to the Lord and pray for His help during Times of Tmeptation.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -

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

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

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



Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada



Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right

use of power and the right stewardship of their positions.



Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become

your sons and daughters. Amen.



Thank you, God, that these two women had each other! Amen.



Pray: Lord. it was time, and so you came to us. Help us during this Advent

season to be aware that you are already with us, even in the turmoil

and rush of the season. And help us to be ambassadors of your

awareness--an awareness of us and of all people.

In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Pray: Heavenly Father, thank you for helping us find your plan for our

lives. Thank you that through prayer, worship, and submission to

you, we can adapt to the plans you have for us. Please lead and

guide us this Advent and beyond. Amen.



Pray for joy and peace on behalf of Christians like Abdu

in Ethiopia who have suffered greatly for leaving Islam.



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.

It's often difficult to trust what we can’t touch or see or completely

comprehend. But our faith in Christ, made possible by the Spirit,

helps us to believe more than we can see.



Reflect & Pray



Where do you struggle with faith? How can you trust God more confidently?



Dear God, please help me to believe and have confidence in You.





Learn more about Hebrews 11 and faith by reading Faith that Endures.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 5 - 1 John 1:9



9 (Ps 32:5; Pr 28:13) If we confess our sins, He is faithful

and just to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.



9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive

us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.



"If God already knows everything about me, everything I've done,

then why do I need to confess it?" Grant struggled with a common

dilemma for many Christians. Indeed, God, knew all his sin - much

better than Grant did himself. But Grant needed to confess,

not for God's benefit, but for his own. Grant needed to agree with God

that his sin was wrong, and put himself in a position to receive God's

grace in forgiveness.

1 John 1:9 make the process quit clear. We confess,

and God forgives and cleanses. Many of us, however, want to take on

God's part as well. We confess, agreeing with God that our sin is wrong.

But then we proceed to try to 'clean up our act,'bargaining with God,

promising that if he will forgive us just this once,

we won't ever to it again.

The problem is, we can never keep such a promise.

We probably will do it again, and then we are back where we started,

begging for forgiveness, and trying once more to cleanse

ourselves for our unrighteousness.

God offers freedom from such futile performance. He says, "Just confess.

Agree that you sinned. Submit yourself to me. Then I'll take over from there."

God's grace does not give us freedom to keep on sinning, of course - we need

to cooperate with the work of his Spirit in our lives and do all we can

to avoid sin. But we do not have to beg God for forgiveness - forgiveness

is offered to us freely.

We do not have to clean up out act before God will accept us; God can make

the necessary changes in our lives. When we confess, submit ourselves to God,

and allow him to work within us, he is able both to forgive us and to cleanse

us from unrighteousness.



Application



a) In what ways have I bartered with God and tried to "Clean up my act"

in order to deserve his forgiveness?



b) What is my part in confession? What is God's response?

Why it is important for me to recognize God's part in my

confession and forgiveness?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Joshua 1:5



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

of your life. As I was with Moses, I will be with you. I will not

abandon you. I will not leave you.



5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy

life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee,

nor forsake thee.



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



God's Help in Times of Temptation



1 Cor 10:1-13



1 Corinthians 10



Warning Against Idolatry



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

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

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

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

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

for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them,

and that Rock was Christ.

5 (Heb 3:17; Jude 1:5) But with many of them God was not well pleased,

and they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6 (Nu 11:4; 1Co 10:11) Now these things were our examples to the intent

that we should not lust after evil things as they lusted.

7 (Ex 32:19; 32:4) Neither be idolaters as were some of them.

As it is written,

"The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to revel." (Ex 32:6. )

8 (Nu 25:1-9; 1Co 6:18) Neither let us commit sexual immorality as some

of them committed, when 23000 fell in one day.

9 (Nu 21:5-6; Ex 17:2) Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them

also tempted and were destroyed by serpents.

10 (Ex 12:23; Nu 16:41) Neither murmur, as some of them also murmured

and were destroyed by the destroyer.

11 (Ro 13:11) Now all these things happened to them for examples.

They are written as an admonition to us,

upon whom the end of the ages has come.

12 (Ro 11:20) Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed,

lest he fall.

13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken you except what is common

to man. God is faithful, and He will not permit you to be tempted above

what you can endure, but will with the temptation also make a way

to escape, that you may be able to bear it.



1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all

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

2 and were all baptised unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

3 and did all eat the same spiritual meat;

4 and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that

spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

5 But with many of them God was not well pleased:

for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust

after evil things, as they also lusted.

7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written,

The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed,

and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted,

and were destroyed of serpents.

10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured,

and were destroyed of the destroyer.

11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples:

and they are written for our admonition,

upon whom the ends of the world are come.

12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man:

but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted

above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also

make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13





9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.





6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 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



4nd Day of the Month



a) Pray for the preservation of godly values in Canada

(Prov 14:34 - Righteousness exalts a nation,

but sin is a reproach to any people.



34 Righteousness exalteth a nation:

But sin is a reproach to any people.



)



b) Pray the political leaders will be awakened by God to the right

use of power and the right stewardship of their positions.



Advent Day 12



From C.S.Lewis A Grand miracle by Joel Heck



Thursday, Second Week of Advent





"The Son of God became a man to enable men to become the sons of God.

We do not know... how things would have worked if the

human race had never rebelled against God and joined the enemy....

You and I are concerned with the way things work now."



- C. S. Lewis



(Read this and more in Mere Christianity, p. 178.)



Why Did He Do It?



Have you ever noticed that children have so many of the same mannerisms as

their parents? They walk, gesture, and even laugh like their parents.

Children also mimic the bad traits of their par­ents, but it is a great

compliment to parents that their sons and daughters are like them.



Why did the Son of God become one of us? Certainly not for his own benefit.

John says it this way, "But to as many as received him, to them he gave power

to become the sons of God." Lewis says it similarly, "The Son of God became a

man to enable men to become the sons of God." God didn't become a man to

impress anyone, least of all us. God was in the business of raising up us men

and women to become like him, people who walk in his ways, who act like he

acted and do what he did. Jesus became like us so that we might become like

him.



Parents want their children to grow up to be like them. Setting aside our

faults for the moment, it is better for them to become like us than to stay

children. That is also our Father's intent for us. At times, it is painful

when God molds and shapes us to be conformed to the image of his Son. But we

become more ourselves when we become like him.



Prayer:



Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making it possible for us to become your sons and

daughters. Amen.



Verses:



12 Yet to all who received Him, He gave the power to become sons of God,

to those who believed in His name,



John 1:12,



10 (Eph 2:10; 4:23-24; Ro 12:2)and have embraced the new nature,

which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him who created it,



Col. 3:10



From Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn



THURSDAY, SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT



Benediction



Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!



-Luke 1:42



Mary must have had multiple motives. Soon after she had received

the angel Gabriel's proclamation, she hastened

to the town where Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth lived.

Probably she went to see for herself that Elizabeth, too, was pregnant.

Perhaps she went, with great love for her relative, to give her assistance

in her last months. Maybe she grasped she would need the practice

of helping to deliver a child.



She travelled a long way-from Nazareth of Galilee in the north

to the hill country of the southern province, Judea-so she had ample

time to ponder all the news Gabriel had given. She had accepted

the LORD's will, and now she had time to comprehend more thoroughly

what it all meant.



Elizabeth's greetings were rapturous. The babe leaped, and she was filled

with the Holy Spirit, so she cried out joyously, "Blessed are you ...

and the fruit of your womb." How much that must have emboldened Mary!



Prayer



Thank you, God, that these two women had each other! Amen.

Acts 23





1 And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have

lived in all good conscience before God until this day.

2 And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him

on the mouth.

3 Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, thou whited wall: for

sittest thou to judge me after the law,

and commandest me to be smitten contrary to the law?

4 And they that stood by said, Revilest thou God's high priest?

5 Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest:

for it is written, Thou shalt not speak evil of the ruler of thy people.

6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other

Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee,

the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called

in question.

7 And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees

and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.

8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor

spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.

9 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees'

part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a

spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.

10 And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest

Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go

down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the

castle.

11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer,

Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear

witness also at Rome.



The Plot Against Paul's Life



12 (Ac 23:21; 23:30) At daybreak some of the Jews conspired under oath,

saying they would neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul.

13 There were more than forty who had conspired.

14 They went to the chief priests and elders and said,

"We have bound ourselves under oath not to eat until we have killed Paul.

15 So now, with the Sanhedrin, tell the commander to bring him down to you

tomorrow, pretending to inquire further concerning him. We are ready to

kill him before he arrives."

16 (Ac 23:10) But when the son of Paul's sister heard of the treachery,

he went and entered the barracks and told Paul.

17 Then Paul called one of the centurions over and said,

"Take this young man to the commander, for he has something to tell him."

18 (Eph 3:1) So he took him to the commander and said, "Paul the prisoner

sent for me and asked me to bring you this young man who has something

to tell you."

19 Then the commander took him by the hand, went aside privately,

and asked him, "What is it you have to tell me?"

20 (Ac 23:14-15)The boy said, "The Jews have agreed to ask you

to bring Paul down tomorrow to the Sanhedrin, pretending to inquire

further concerning him.

21 (Ac 23:12-14) Do not trust them. More than forty men, who have bound

themselves with an oath to neither eat nor drink until they have killed

him, are waiting for him. And now they are ready, waiting for your

promise."

22 The commander dismissed the young man and ordered him,

"Tell no one that you have reported these things to me."



12 And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound

themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink

till they had killed Paul.

13 And they were more than forty which had made this conspiracy.

14 And they came to the chief priests and elders, and said, We have

bound ourselves under a great curse, that we will eat nothing until we

have slain Paul.

15 Now therefore ye with the council signify to the chief captain that he

bring him down unto you to morrow, as though ye would enquire something

more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever he come near,

are ready to kill him.

16 And when Paul's sister's son heard of their lying in wait, he went a

nd entered into the castle, and told Paul.

17 Then Paul called one of the centurions unto him, and said, Bring this

young man unto the chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.

18 So he took him, and brought him to the chief captain, and said, Paul the

prisoner called me unto him, and prayed me to bring this young man unto thee,

who hath something to say unto thee.

19 Then the chief captain took him by the hand, and went with him aside

privately, and asked him, What is that thou hast to tell me?

20 And he said, The Jews have agreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bring

down Paul to morrow into the council, as though they would enquire somewhat

of him more perfectly.

21 But do not thou yield unto them: for there lie in wait for him of them

more than forty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that they will

neither eat nor drink till they have killed him: and now are they ready,

looking for a promise from thee.

22 So the chief captain then let the young man depart, and charged him,

See thou tell no man that thou hast shewed these things to me.



Paul Sent to Felix the Governor



23 Then he summoned two centurions and said,

"Prepare two hundred infantrymen, seventy mounted soldiers,

and two hundred light infantrymen with spears to go to Caes­area

at the third hour of the night.

24 (Ac 23:26; 24:10) And provide mounts so Paul may ride

and take him safely to Felix the governor."

25 He wrote a letter that went like this:

26 (Ac 15:23; Lk 1:3) Claudius Lysias,

To His Excellency Governor Felix:

Greetings.

27 (Ac 22:25-29) This man was seized by the Jews

and was about to be killed by them. When I learned that he was

a Roman citizen, I came with soldiers and rescued him.

28 (Ac 22:30) Being minded to learn what crime they alleged,

I took him to their Sanhedrin.

29 (Ac 18:15; 26:31) I found him being accused of controversial matters

about their law, but charged with nothing worthy of death or imprisonment.

30 (Ac 23:20; 23:35) When it was revealed to me that there was a plot

against the man, at once I sent him to you and ordered the accusers

to state before you their charges against him.

Farewell.



23 And he called unto him two centurions, saying, Make ready two hundred

soldiers to go to Cæsarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, and spearmen two

hundred, at the third hour of the night;

24 and provide them beasts, that they may set Paul on, and bring him safe

unto Felix the governor.

25 And he wrote a letter after this manner:

26 Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix sendeth greeting.

27 This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then

came I with an army, and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman.

28 And when I would have known the cause wherefore they accused him, I brought

him forth into their council:

29 whom I perceived to be accused of questions of their law, but to have

nothing laid to his charge worthy of death or of bonds.

30 And when it was told me how that the Jews laid wait for the man, I sent

straightway to thee, and gave commandment to his accusers also to say

before thee what they had against him. Farewell.



31 So the soldiers, according to their orders, took Paul by night

to Antipatris.

32 The next day they let the cavalry depart with him

and they returned to the barracks.

33 When they arrived in Caesarea and delivered the letter to the governor,

they presented Paul also to him.

34 (Ac 21:39; 25:1) Upon reading the letter, the governor asked what

province he was from. When he learned that he was from Cilicia,

35 (Ac 23:30; 25:16) he said, "I will hear you when your accusers

also arrive." And he ordered that he be guarded in Herod's Praetorium.



31 Then the soldiers, as it was commanded them, took Paul, and brought him

by night to Antipatris.

32 On the morrow they left the horsemen to go with him,

and returned to the castle:

33 who, when they came to Cæsarea, and delivered the epistle to the governor,

presented Paul also before him.

34 And when the governor had read the letter, he asked of what province he

was. And when he understood that he was of Cilicia;

35 I will hear thee, said he, when thine accusers are also come.

And he commanded him to be kept in Herod's judgment hall.



2) Our Daily Bread for 4 December 2025 Titled

Believing More Than We See by

Winn Collier



Hebrews 11:1-4



1 (2Co 4:18; 5:7) Now faith is the substance of things hoped for,

the evidence of things not seen.

2 For by it the men of old obtained a good report.

3 (Jn 1:3; Ro 4:17) By faith we understand that the universe was framed

by the word of God, so that things that are seen were not made

out of things which are visible.

4 (Mt 23:35; Heb 12:24) By faith Abel offered to God a more excellent

sacrifice than Cain offered. Through this he was approved as righteous,

with God testifying concerning his gifts. He still speaks through his

faith, though he is dead.



[1] Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things

not seen.

[2] For by it the elders obtained a good report.

[3] Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of

God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

[4] By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by

which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his

gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.



In the late nineteenth century, few people had access to the great sequoia

groves in the United States, and many didn't believe the reports of the

massive trees. In 1892, however, four lumberjacks ventured into the Big Stump

Forest in California and spent thirteen days felling the grand tree named

Mark Twain. Twain was 1341 years old, 300 feet tall, and 50 feet

in circumference. One observer described Twain as a tree "of magnificent

proportions, one of the most perfect trees in the grove." They shipped part

of this remarkable beauty, now destroyed, to the American Museum of Natural

History, where everyone could see a sequoia.



The reality, though, is that we can't prove every truth with our eyes alone.

Hebrews describes faith as "confidence in what we hope for and assurance

about what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). Faith isn’t irrational or a fit of

fancy, because the whole story is grounded in a person - Jesus - who has

entered human history. Faith includes human senses and reason, but it's not

limited to them. Faith requires more. "By faith we understand that the

universe was formed at God's command" Hebrews says, "so that what is seen was

not made out of what was visible" (v. 3).

Acts 22





[1] Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto

you.

[2] (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they

kept the more silence: and he saith,)

[3] I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet

brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the

perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye

all are this day.

[4] And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into

prisons both men and women.

[5] As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the

elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to

Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be

punished.



Paul Tells of His Conversion



Ac 9:1-19; 26:12-18



6 "As I journeyed and came near Damascus, about noon suddenly a great

light from heaven shone around me.

7 I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me,

'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?'

8 "I answered, 'Who are You, Lord?'

"He said to me, 'I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.'

9 (Ac 9:7; Da 10:7) Those who were with me saw the light and were afraid,

but they did not hear the voice of Him who was speaking to me.

10 (Ac 16:30) "I said, 'What shall I do, Lord?'

"The Lord said to me, 'Rise and go into Damascus. There you will be told

what you have been appointed to do.'

11 Since I was blinded by the glory of that light, those who were with me

led me by the hand into Damascus.

12 (Ac 10:22; 6:3) "Ananias, a devout man according to the law,

who was well spoken of by all the Jews living there,

13 came and stood by me, and said, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight.'

And at that moment I looked up at him.

14 (Ac 26:16; 1Co 9:1; 15:8) "Then he said, 'The God of our fathers has

appointed you to know His will and to see the Just One and to hear His

voice,

15 (Ac 23:11; 4:20) for you will be His witness to all men of what you

have seen and heard.

16 (Ac 2:38; Heb 10:22; 1Co 6:11) And now why do you wait? Rise, be

baptized and wash away your sins, and call on the name of the Lord.'



[6] And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto

Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round

about me.

[7] And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul,

Saul, why persecutest thou me?

[8] And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of

Nazareth, whom thou persecutest.

[9] And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but

they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.

[10] And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise,

and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which

are appointed for thee to do.

[11] And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the

hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.

[12] And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good

report of all the Jews which dwelt there,

[13] Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy

sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him.

[14] And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou

shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice

of his mouth.

[15] For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and

heard.

[16] And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy

sins, calling on the name of the Lord.



Paul Sent to the Gentiles



17 (2Co 12:1-4) "When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying

in the temple, I fell into a trance

18 and saw Him saying to me, 'Hurry! Get out of Jerusalem immediately,

for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me.'

19 (Mt 10:17; Ac 22:4) "I said, 'Lord, they know that I imprisoned

and beat those who believed in You in every synagogue.

20 (Ac 7:58; 8:1) And when the blood of Your martyr Stephen was shed,

I was standing by consenting to his death, guarding the clothes

of those who killed him.'

21 (Ac 9:15) "Then He said to me, 'Depart, for I will send you far away

to the Gentiles.' "



[17] And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even

while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance;

[18] And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of

Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me.

[19] And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every

synagogue them that believed on thee:

[20] And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing

by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew

him.

[21] And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the

Gentiles.



Paul and the Roman Commander



22 (Ac 25:24; 21:36) They listened to him up to this word, and then

they lifted up their voices and said, "Away with such a man from

the earth, for he is not fit to live!"

23 As they shouted and threw off their garments and threw dust into the air,

24 (Ac 21:34; 23:10) the commander ordered him to be brought

into the barracks and examined with scourging, so that he might learn

what crime they were alleging against him.

25 (Ac 16:37) As they stretched him forward with straps, Paul said

to the centurion standing by, "Is it legal for you to flog

an uncondemned Roman citizen?"

26 On hearing this, the centurion reported to the commander, saying,

"What are you doing? This man is a Roman citizen."

27 The commander came and said to him, "Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?"

He said, "Yes."

28 The commander answered, "I bought my citizenship for a large sum."

So Paul said, "But I was born a citizen."

29 Therefore those who were about to examine Paul immediately backed away

from him. And the commander feared, knowing that he was a Roman citizen

and because he had bound him.



[22] And they gave him audience unto this word, and then lifted up their

voices, and said, Away with such a fellow from the earth: for it is not fit

that he should live.

[23] And as they cried out, and cast off their clothes, and threw dust into

the air,

[24] The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade

that he should be examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they

cried so against him.

[25] And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that

stood by, Is it lawful for you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and

uncondemned?

[26] When the centurion heard that, he went and told the chief captain,

saying, Take heed what thou doest: for this man is a Roman.

[27] Then the chief captain came, and said unto him, Tell me, art thou a

Roman? He said, Yea.

[28] And the chief captain answered, With a great sum obtained I this

freedom. And Paul said, But I was free born.

[29] Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him:

and the chief captain also was afraid, after he knew that he was a Roman,

and because he had bound him.



Paul Before the Sanhedrin



30 (Ac 23:28; 21:33) On the next day, desiring to know exactly

why he was accused by the Jews, he released him and ordered the chief

priests and all the Sanhedrin to assemble,

and he brought Paul down to stand before them.



[30] On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he

was accused of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the

chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and

set him before them.



Acts 23



1 (Ac 24:16; 2Co 1:12) Paul looked at the Sanhedrin and said,

"Brothers, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day."

2 (Ac 24:1; Jn 18:22) The high priest Ananias ordered those who stood

by him to strike him on the mouth.

3 (Jn 7:51; Dt 25:1-2) Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you,

you whitewashed wall! Do you sit judging me according to the law,

yet order me to be struck contrary to the law?"

4 Those who stood by said, "Do you criticize God's high priest?"

5 (Ex 22:28) Paul said, "Brothers, I did not know that he was

the high priest. For it is written,

'You shall not speak evil of the ruler of your people.'(Ex 22:28.)"

6 (Ac 24:15; 24:21) Then Paul, knowing that one sect were Sadducees

and the other Pharisees, cried out among the Sanhedrin,

"Brothers, I am a Pharisee, a son of a Pharisee. I am being judged

for my hope in the resurrection of the dead."

7 When he had said this, dissension arose between the Pharisees

and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided.

8 (Mt 22:23; Lk 20:27) For the Sadducees say that there is

no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit. But the Pharisees acknowledge

them all.

9 (Ac 22:7; 22:17-18) There was a great outcry. The scribes that were

from the sect of Pharisees stood up and argued,

"We find no evil in this man. But if a spirit or an angel has spoken

to him, let us not fight against God."

10 (Ac 22:24) When much dissension arose, fearing that Paul would be torn

to pieces by them, the commander ordered the soldiers to go down and take

him from them by force and bring him into the barracks.

11 (Ac 18:9; 19:21) The following night the Lord stood by him and said,

"Take courage, Paul. For as you have testified about Me in Jerusalem,

so you must also testify at Rome."

Acts 21



[1] And it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had

launched, we came with a straight course unto Coos, and the day following

unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:

[2] And finding a ship sailing over unto Phenicia, we went aboard, and set

forth.

[3] Now when we had discovered Cyprus, we left it on the left hand, and

sailed into Syria, and landed at Tyre: for there the ship was to unlade her

burden.

[4] And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul

through the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem.

[5] And when we had accomplished those days, we departed and went our way;

and they all brought us on our way, with wives and children, till we were

out of the city: and we kneeled down on the shore, and prayed.

[6] And when we had taken our leave one of another, we took ship; and they

returned home again.

[7] And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and

saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.

[8] And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto

Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was

one of the seven; and abode with him.

[9] And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.

[10] And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a

certain prophet, named Agabus.

[11] And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own

hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at

Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into

the hands of the Gentiles.

[12] And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place,

besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.

[13] Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I

am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of

the Lord Jesus.

[14] And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the

Lord be done.

[15] And after those days we took up our carriages, and went up to

Jerusalem.

[16] There went with us also certain of the disciples of Caesarea, and

brought with them one Mnason of Cyprus, an old disciple, with whom we should

lodge.



Paul Visits James



17 (Ac 15:4) When we had come to Jerusalem, the brothers received us gladly.

18 (Ac 11:30; 15:13) On the next day Paul went with us to James, and all

the elders were present.

19 (Ac 1:17; 14:27) He greeted them and recounted one by one what God

had done among the Gentiles through his ministry.

20 (Ac 22:3; Ro 10:2) When they heard this, they glorified the Lord.

Then they said to him, "You see, brother, how many thousands of Jews

there are who believe, and they are all zealous for the law.

21 (Ac 21:28) They have been informed concerning you that you teach

all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, telling them

not to circumcise their children nor to observe the customs.

22 What then shall be done? The assembly will certainly meet, for they

will hear that you have come.

23 (Ac 18:18) Therefore do what we tell you. We have four men who have

taken a vow.

24 (Ac 21:26; 24:18) Take these men and be purified with them, and pay

their expenses so that they may have their heads shaved. Then all will

know that what they were told concerning you is nothing, but that you

yourself live in observance of the law.

25 (Ac 15:29) As for the Gentiles who believe, we have written and

concluded that they should observe no such thing, except that they abstain

from food offered to idols, from sexual immorality, from strangled

animals, and from blood."

26 (Ac 24:18; Nu 6:13-20) Then on the next day, Paul took the men

and purified himself with them. And he went into the temple, announcing

when the days of purification would be complete and an offering would

be given for each one of them.



[17] And when we were come to Jerusalem, the brethren received us gladly.

[18] And the day following Paul went in with us unto James; and all the

elders were present.

[19] And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God

had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.

[20] And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him,

Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and

they are all zealous of the law:

[21] And they are informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jews which

are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to

circumcise their children, neither to walk after the customs.

[22] What is it therefore? the multitude must needs come together: for they

will hear that thou art come.

[23] Do therefore this that we say to thee: We have four men which have a

vow on them;

[24] Them take, and purify thyself with them, and be at charges with them,

that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof

they were informed concerning thee, are nothing; but that thou thyself also

walkest orderly, and keepest the law.

[25] As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded

that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from

things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from

fornication.

[26] Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them

entered into the temple, to signify the accomplishment of the days of

purifcation, until that an offering should be offered for every one of them.



Paul Arrested in the Temple



27 (Ac 24:18; 26:21) When the seven days were nearly concluded, the Jews

from Asia saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people,

and laid hands on him,

28 (Ac 24:5-6; 21:21) crying out, "Men of Israel, help! This is the man

teaching all men everywhere against the people and the law and this place.

He even brought Greeks into the temple and has defiled this holy place."

29 (Ac 20:4) For they had previously seen Trophimus the Ephesian in the

city with him, whom they supposed Paul had brought into the temple.

30 (Ac 26:21) Then the whole city was provoked, and the people ran

together. They seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple.

And immediately the doors were shut.

31 While they were trying to kill him, news came up to the commander

(Gk. chiliarch, a battalion commander

with the rank of lieutenant colonel over 1,000 soldiers.)

of the battalion of soldiers that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.

32 (Ac 23:27) He at once took soldiers and centurions, and ran down

to them. When they saw the commander and the soldiers,

they stopped beating Paul.

33 (Ac 12:6; 20:23) Then the commander came and arrested him, and ordered

that he be bound with two chains. Then he asked who he was

and what he had done.

34 (Ac 19:32; 23:10) Some in the crowd shouted one thing, some another.

As he could not learn the truth because of the uproar,

he commanded that he be brought into the barracks.

35 When he came onto the stairs, he was carried by the soldiers

because of the violence of the people.

36 (Lk 23:18; Jn 19:15) For the mob of people followed, crying out,

"Away with him!"



[27] And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia,

when they saw him in the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands

on him,

[28] Crying out, Men of Israel, help: This is the man, that teacheth all men

every where against the people, and the law, and this place: and further

brought Greeks also into the temple, and hath polluted this holy place.

[29] (For they had seen before with him in the city Trophimus an Ephesian,

whom they supposed that Paul had brought into the temple.)

[30] And all the city was moved, and the people ran together: and they took

Paul, and drew him out of the temple: and forthwith the doors were shut.

[31] And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain

of the band, that all Jerusalem was in an uproar.

[32] Who immediately took soldiers and centurions, and ran down unto them:

and when they saw the chief captain and the soldiers, they left beating of

Paul.

[33] Then the chief captain came near, and took him, and commanded him to be

bound with two chains; and demanded who he was, and what he had done.

[34] And some cried one thing, some another, among the multitude: and when

he could not know the certainty for the tumult, he commanded him to be

carried into the castle.

[35] And when he came upon the stairs, so it was, that he was borne of the

soldiers for the violence of the people.

[36] For the multitude of the people followed after, crying, Away with him.

Paul Defends Himself



37 As Paul was about to be brought into the barracks,

he said to the commander, "May I speak to you?"

He replied, "Do you know how to speak Greek?

38 (Mt 24:26A) Are you not the Egyptian who in past days caused an uproar

and led the four thousand men of the Sicarii (Or men of the Assassins.)

out into the wilderness?"

39 (Ac 9:11; 22:3) Paul said, “I am a Jew, from Tarsus of Cilicia, a

citizen of no common city. I beg of you, permit me to speak to the people."

40 (Ac 12:17; Jn 5:2) When he had given him permission, Paul stood on the

stairs and motioned with his hand to the people. When there was great

silence, he addressed them in the Hebrew language, saying,



[37] And as Paul was to be led into the castle, he said unto the chief

captain, May I speak unto thee? Who said, Canst thou speak Greek?

[38] Art not thou that Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar,

and leddest out into the wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?

[39] But Paul said, I am a man which am a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia,

a citizen of no mean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speak unto the

people.

[40] And when he had given him licence, Paul stood on the stairs, and

beckoned with the hand unto the people. And when there was made a great

silence, he spake unto them in the Hebrew tongue, saying,



Acts 22



1 (Ac 7:2) "Brothers and fathers, hear my defense which I now make to you."

2 (Ac 21:40) When they heard that he addressed them in the Hebrew

language, they became even more quiet.

Then he said,

3 (Ac 9:11; 5:34; 21:20) "I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but

brought up in this city. At the feet of Gamaliel I was trained in the

strict tradition of the law of the fathers, being zealous toward God as

you all are today.

4 (Ac 22:19-20; 26:9-11) I persecuted this Way to the death,

arresting and imprisoning both men and women,

5 (Lk 22:66; Ac 9:1-2) as even the high priest and the council of elders

bear witness of me. From them I received letters to the brothers in

Damascus, where I went to take even those who were there and lead them in

chains to Jerusalem to be punished.

Day 338, 4 December 2025 - 12th Day of Advent



1) Acts 20:7-38, Acts 21, Acts 22, Acts 23



Paul's Farewell Visit to Troas



7 (Ac 20:11; 1Co 16:2; Rev 1:10) On the first day of the week,

when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to leave

the next day, preached to them and continued his message until midnight.

8 (Ac 1:13) There were many lamps in the upper room where they were

assembled.

9 A young man named Eutychus sat in the window, falling into a deep sleep

as Paul spoke for a longer time. Being overcome by sleep, he fell down

from the third floor and was taken up dead.

10 (Mk 5:39; Mt 9:23-24) Paul went down and leaned over him, and embracing

him said, "Do not be troubled, for he is alive."

11 (Ac 20:7) When he had gone up and had broken bread and eaten,

he conversed for a long while until dawn and departed.

12 They took the lad in alive and were greatly comforted.



[7] And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to

break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and

continued his speech until midnight.

[8] And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were

gathered together.

[9] And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being

fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with

sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead.

[10] And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble

not yourselves; for his life is in him.

[11] When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten,

and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he departed.

[12] And they brought the young man alive, and were not a little comforted.



The Voyage From Troas to Miletus



13 We went ahead to the ship and sailed to Assos, intending to take

Paul on board there. For he had arranged this, intending to go on foot.

14 When he met us at Assos, we took him on board and went to Mitylene.

15 (Ac 20:17; 2Ti 4:20) The day after sailing from there we arrived off

Chios. And the next day we crossed over to Samos and stayed at Trogyllium,

and the following day we came to Miletus.

16 (Ac 2:1; 19:21) Paul had decided to sail by Ephesus, to avoid spending

time in Asia. For he was hurrying so he could be in Jerusalem, if

possible, on the day of Pentecost.



[13] And we went before to ship, and sailed unto Assos, there intending to

take in Paul: for so had he appointed, minding himself to go afoot.

[14] And when he met with us at Assos, we took him in, and came to Mitylene.

[15] And we sailed thence, and came the next day over against Chios; and the

next day we arrived at Samos, and tarried at Trogyllium; and the next day we

came to Miletus.

[16] For Paul had determined to sail by Ephesus, because he would not spend

the time in Asia: for he hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at

Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.



Paul Speaks to the Ephesian Elders



17 (Ac 11:30; 14:23) From Miletus he sent to Ephesus for the elders

of the church.

18 (Ac 18:19; 19:1) When they came to him, he said to them,

"You know how I always lived among you from the first day that

I came to Asia,

19 (Ac 20:3; 20:31) serving the Lord with all humility

and with many tears and trials which befell me through

the plots of the Jews.

20 (Ac 20:27; 20:31) I did not keep from declaring what was beneficial

to you, and teaching you publicly and from house to house,

21 (Ac 2:38; 11:18; 20:24) testifying to both Jews and Greeks

of repentance toward God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.

22 "Now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing

what shall befall me there,

23 (Ac 9:16; 21:4) except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every

city that imprisonment and afflictions await me.

24 (Ac 21:13; 2Co 4:1) But none of these things deter me. Nor do I count

my life of value to myself, so that I may joyfully finish my course

and the ministry which I have received from the Lord Jesus, to testify

to the gospel of the grace of God.

25 (Ac 28:31; Mt 4:23) "Now I know that all you, among whom I went

proclaiming the kingdom of God, will see my face no more.

26 (Ac 18:6) Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent

of the blood of all men.

27 (Ac 20:20; Lk 7:30) For I did not keep from declaring to you

the whole counsel of God.

28 (1Co 10:32; Isa 40:11) Therefore take heed to yourselves

and to the entire flock, over which the Holy Spirit has made you

overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased

with His own blood.

29 (Mt 7:15; Jn 10:12) For I know that after my departure,

dreadful wolves will enter among you, not sparing the flock.

30 (1Ti 1:19-20; 1Jn 2:19) Even from among you men will arise

speaking perverse things, to draw the disciples away after them.

31 (Ac 19:10; 19:8) Therefore watch, remembering that for three years

night and day I did not cease to warn everyone with tears.

32 (Ac 14:23; 26:18) "Now, brothers, I commend you to God and to the word

of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance

among all who are sanctified.

33 (1Co 9:12; 2Co 11:9) I have not coveted anyone's silver or gold or

clothing.

34 (Ac 18:3) Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided

for my necessities and for those who were with me.

35 (Pr 19:17; Mt 10:8) In all things I have shown you how, working like

this, you must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus,

how He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.' "

36 (Lk 22:41; Ac 21:5) Having said these things, he knelt down with all

of them and prayed.

37 (Lk 15:20; 2Ti 1:4) They all wept much and embraced Paul's neck

and kissed him,

38 (Ac 15:3; 20:25) grieving most over the words he spoke, that they were

to see his face no more. Then they escorted him to the ship.



[17] And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the

church.

[18] And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the

first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at

all seasons,

[19] Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and

temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:

[20] And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have

shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,

[21] Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward

God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.

[22] And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing

the things that shall befall me there:

[23] Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds

and afflictions abide me.

[24] But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto

myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I

have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

[25] And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching

the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.

[26] Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood

of all men.

[27] For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

[28] Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the

which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God,

which he hath purchased with his own blood.

[29] For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in

among you, not sparing the flock.

[30] Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to

draw away disciples after them.

[31] Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I

ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.

[32] And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace,

which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them

which are sanctified.

[33] I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.

[34] Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my

necessities, and to them that were with me.

[35] I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support

the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is

more blessed to give than to receive.

[36] And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.

[37] And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,

[38] Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should

see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.



Acts 21



Paul's Journey to Jerusalem



1 When we had withdrawn from them and set sail, we went on a straight

course to Cos, the next day to Rhodes, and from there to Patara.

2 We found a ship crossing over to Phoenicia, went aboard, and set sail.

3 (Mt 4:24; Ac 4:36) Having come in sight of Cyprus, we passed to the

south of it and sailed to Syria, and landed at Tyre, for there the ship's

cargo was to be unloaded.

4 When we found the disciples, we remained there

seven days. They told Paul through the Spirit not to go up to Jerusalem.

5 (Ac 20:36; 9:40) But when our days were over, we parted and traveled on.

Everyone, with wives and children, escorted us until we were outside

the city. And we knelt on the shore and prayed.

6 (Jn 19:27) After bidding farewell to one another, we boarded the ship,

and they returned home.

7 We finished the voyage from Tyre when we landed at Ptolemais,

where we greeted the brothers and stayed with them for one day.

8 (Ac 6:5; Eph 4:11; 2Ti 4:5) The next day we who were Paul's companions

departed, and arrived at Caesarea, and entered the house of Philip

the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him.

9 (Ac 2:17; Lk 2:36) He had four virgin daughters who prophesied.

10 (Ac 11:28) While we stayed there many days, a prophet named Agabus

came down from Judea.

11 (Ac 21:33; Jer 13:1-11; 1Sa 15:27-28) When he had arrived, he took

Paul's belt and bound his own hands and feet, saying, "The Holy Spirit

says, 'In this manner the Jews at Jerusalem shall bind the man who owns

this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.' "

12 (Mt 16:21-23) When we heard these things, both we and the residents

implored him not to go up to Jerusalem.

13 (Ac 20:24; Php 2:17) Then Paul answered, "What are you doing, weeping

and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned, but also

to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."

14 (Mt 6:10; Lk 22:42) When he would not be persuaded, we kept silent

and said, "Let the will of the Lord be done."

15 After those days we got ready and went up to Jerusalem.

16 Some of the disciples from Caesarea went with us and brought

with them Mnason of Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom we should lodge.

Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the spiritual battle around you and

for discernment.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, You know me best and love me most.

I'm so grateful for Your hand on my life."



Pray to the Lord and pray to put full trust in the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to cleave to the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the compassions and mercies of the Lord.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -

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

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

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



Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring conviction of sin

and Canadian to faith in Christ.



Pray: God Almighty, may we willingly endorse, as Mary did, your

outline for our lives. Amen.



Pray: Lord, we pray today:"Lord, forgive us when we do not allow Jesus to be seen through what

we say and do. Forgive us when our story is not your story. Thanks for

continuing to cal us as your announcers of the best story of all--a baby

called Jesus ... in a manger ... foe us! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!"



Pray: O God, we give thanks for how you continue to come to us. As

we await the birth of your Son this Advent season, teach us how

to love one another as you have loved us. Help us to be present

with others to share your gift of love. Amen.



Jesus, you came to the earth to conquer sin and death, and

transform our hearts to be a dwelling place for your presence.

Break us free from sin and darkness so that we might be filled with

your light. When we feel insufficient or uncertain, help us turn our

focus back to you.



Fill us with hope this Advent by showing us the truth of who you

are, and our identity in you.



Pray that Gospel seeds will be planted

and take root in the hearts of many more Bahrainis.



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.

From follow the story by Marva J. Dawn



WEDNESDAY, SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT



Receptivity



Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. ..."



-Luke 1:38a



As was said in yesterday's meditation, Mary's consent was as striking a

wonder as other great works of God. That she was willing to go through

the gossip-causing pregnancy and the cruel agony of being the Christ's

mother was truly phenomenal. How highly we should honor her!



Mary also is a notable model for us. She was thoroughly obedient to

whatever God had in mind for her as she responded, "Let it be with me

according to your word."



Are we as willing to acquiesce in whatever God knows is best for us

(in eternal perspective) and most conducive for his purposes for the world?

I must confess that I don't receive all God's intentions for me with alacrity

or fervor. Some events in our lives probably seem too arduous

for us. I'm not saying that the evil forces don't cause us handicaps,

trials and much unpleasantness, but God has promised that all things

will work together (eventually) for good.

Can we encounter whatever God allows with thanksgiving?



Prayer



God Almighty, may we willingly endorse, as Mary did, your

outline for our lives. Amen.



Read Luke 1:26-38.



26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God

to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,

27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph,

of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.

28 The angel came to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favoured.

The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women."

29 When she saw him, she was troubled by his words, and considered

in her mind what kind of greeting this might be.

30 But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found

favour with God.

31 Listen, you will conceive in your womb and bear a Son

and shall call His name JESUS.

32 He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest.

And the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David,

33 and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever.

And of His kingdom there will be no end."

34 Then Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I do not know a an?"

35 The angel answered her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you,

and the power of the Highest will overshadow you.

Therefore the Holy One who will be born will be called the Son of God.

36 Listen, your cousin Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age.

And this is the sixth month with her who was declared barren.

37 For with God nothing will be impossible."

38 Mary said, "I am the servant of the Lord. May it be unto me according

to your word." Then the angel departed from her.



From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler



SECOND WEDNESDAY

AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ANNOUNCEMENTS!



1 (Mt 11:11; 16:14) In those days John the Baptist came, preaching

in the wilderness of Judea,

2 (Mt 4:17; Da 2:44; Mt 6:10) and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven

is at hand." MATTHEW 3:1-2



Today's Gospel lesson announces to us that John the Baptist was one of

the best "announcers" of all time . . . even better than Ed McMahon or Ryan

Seacrest! He captured people's attention( wouldn't anyone wearing camel's

hair and eating locusts?). he knew his "product,' he was proud to be a

spokesperson, and he articulated his "mission statement" quite well:

"Repent for the kingdom of heaven is near... prepare the way of the Lord!"



And so it is with us AH-Ha people of Advent! We are announcers for

the Lord in all that we do, say and think. John's mission was to introduce

Christ and point people to the Lord. So is ours. How are we doing?



A little girl was playing the role of the head angel in the Christmas pageant

She took control, as head angels do, and made sure all the junior angels

stayed in their places. But all the energy arid excitement were too much

for them as they scurried in front of the manger scene. blocking out Mary,

Joseph and even Baby Jesus. It became too much for the head angel to

handle and she shouted to the overly eager angels, "Get out of the ways

Nobody can see Jesus"!



Sometimes l block people from seeing Jesus also. l get caught up in

telling my story, and I fail to tell his story.

Sometimes I do not take the time to

introduce people to the Lord. Sometimes my winging it doesn't help either.



And yet, the Lord continues to woo us all back to being announcers of

his story of love and forgiveness. What an announcement--from the Lord

himself! Enjoy being an AH-HA of Advent as we announce that Christ is

coming, is here now and will come again. But ... maybe drop the locust idea!



Lord, forgive us when we do not allow Jesus to be seen through what

we say and do. Forgive us when our story is not your story. Thanks for

continuing to cal us as your announcers of the best story of all--a baby

called Jesus ... in a manger ... foe us! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Read Matthew 3:1-12



Matthew 3



The Preaching of John the Baptist



Mk 1:1-8; Lk 3:1-9, 15-17; Jn 1:19-28



1 (Mt 11:11; 16:14) In those days John the Baptist came, preaching

in the wilderness of Judea,

2 (Mt 4:17; Da 2:44; Mt 6:10) and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven

is at hand."

3 (Isa 40:3; Lk 1:76) For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah,

saying:

"The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

'Prepare the way of the Lord;

make His paths straight.' " [Isa 40:3].

4 (Lev 11:22; 2Ki 1:8) This same John had clothing made of camel's hair,

a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.

5 (Mk 1:5) Then Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region

around the Jordan went out to him,

6 (Ac 19:18; Mt 3:11) and were baptized by him in the Jordan,

confessing their sins.

7 (Mt 12:34; 23:33) But when he saw many of the Pharisees

and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said to them,

"O generation of vipers, who has warned you to escape from the wrath to one?

8 (Ac 26:20; Jer 36:3) Therefore, bear fruit worthy of repentance,

9 (Lk 3:8; 16:24) and do not think to say within yourselves,

'We have Abraham as our father,' for I say to you that God is able

from these stones to raise up children for Abraham.

10 (Mt 7:19; Jn 15:2) Even now the axe is put to the tree roots.

Therefore, every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down

and thrown into the fire.

11 (Ac 1:5; Lk 3:16; Isa 4:4) "I indeed baptize you with water to repentance,

but He who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy

to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

12 (Mal 4:1; Mt 13:30) His fan is in His hand, and He will thoroughly

clean His floor and gather His wheat into the granary,

but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire."



From On Eagle's wings Day 3



Vessels of Light



7 (2Co 5:1; La 4:2) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels,

the excellency of the power being from God and not from ourselves.

2 Corinthians 4:7 (MEV)



[7] But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the

power may be of God, and not of us. (KJV)



We were an hour from beginning our day at Bible Camp, and the

anticipation was growing. Although we were excited, we were

starting to get nervous. It was our very first time leading a Bible

Camp, and we were really hoping that everything would go

smoothly.

I thought that my experience as an elementary school teacher

would be enough to settle the anxiety, but it wasn’t. We quickly

realized that we needed to depend on God to calm our hearts, we

couldn’t do this on our own.

Turning to the Father, we began to pray and worship. Bringing our

concerns to him, we worshipped in song, and thanked him for his

character revealed to us in the Bible. He transformed our hearts.

The uncertainty didn’t disappear, but God gave us a truly hopeful

perspective. We went from thinking it all depended on us, to

remembering that it was never about us in the first place. This camp

wasn’t ours - it was his. And he was right there, dwelling with us. We

were simply vessels, called to reflect his light and truth to the

children he brought there.



Lauren Abrol

Bible Camp Volunteer

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



3nd Day of the Month



a) Pray for the province of Alberta as follows:

I) Pray for the leaders of Alberta, that God's Spirit would influence then to

act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards. (

1 Tim 2:1-4

1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,

3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in

the sight of God our Savior,

4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved and to come

to the knowledge of the truth.



1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2 for kings, and for all that are in authority;

that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

4 who will have all men to be saved,

and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.



II) Pray for the churches of the province, that they would be lighthouses

beaming forth the illuminating truth of God's Word.

III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding the Hope Campaign

and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus



b) Pray for the Holy Spirit to bring conviction of sin

and Canadian to faith in Christ.

( John 16:8 - When He comes, He will convict the world of sin

and of righteousness and of judgment:



8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,

and of righteousness, and of judgment:



)



Advent Day 11



From C.S. Lewis A Grand Miracle by Joel Heck



"We cannot conceive how the Divine Spirit dwelled

within the created and human spirit of Jesus....

What we can understand... is that our own... existence is...

but a faint image of the Divine Incarnation itself

- the same theme in a very minor key."



- C. S. Lewis



(Read this and more in Miracles, p. 147.)



Like Father, Like Son



"Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father." We've read those words from

John's Gospel earlier in these devotions. Jesus came from the Father. Jesus

came to do the will of the Father. The Father knows him, and he knows the

Father. He and the Father are one. He will return to the Father. Truly, like

Father, like Son.



Have you ever wondered why the image of a newborn baby, lying in a manger,

tugs at our hearts? Some of us love that image because we are parents, and we

recall those early days of parentage. But there is far more to this picture.

Part of God came to us and has been with us since the original creation, when

God made us in his image. And, as Lewis writes, in us and in our children

there is "a faint image of the Divine Incarnation itself." The image may be

faint, "the same theme in a very minor key," but it's there.



And then, Jesus comes to live in us as we believe in him. Paul says it this

way: "Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Col. 1:27). He is there in us, in

the image of God, and he is there in us by faith when we believe, making us

like him.



Thank you, Lord Jesus, for making us in your image, for showing us the

Father, for living in us and for making us like you. Amen.



Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. - John 14:9

4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Deut 30:19-20



19 (Dt 4:26; 30:1) I call heaven and earth to witnesses against you this day,

that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse.

Therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live;

20 (Dt 10:20; Ps 27:1) that you may love the Lord your God,

that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him,

for He is your life and the length of your days;

and that you may dwell in the land that the Lord

swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them.



19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you,

that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing:

therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:

20 that thou mayest love the LORD thy God,

and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him:

for he is thy life, and the length of thy days:

that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD

sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.



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



God's Freeing Forgiveness



Ps 103:1-14



PSALMS 103



A Psalm of David.



1 Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits,

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) who forgives all your iniquities,

who heals all your diseases,

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) who redeems your life from the pit,

who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies,

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) who satisfies your mouth with good things,

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8–9) The Lord does righteousness

and justice for all who are oppressed.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) He made known His ways to Moses,

His acts to the people of Israel.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) The Lord is merciful and gracious,

slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) He will not always accuse,

neither will He keep his anger forever.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) He does not treat us according to our sins,

nor repay us according to our iniquities.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) For as the heavens are high above the earth,

so great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;

12 as far as the east is from the west,

so far has He removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like a father shows compassion to his children,

so the Lord gives compassion to those who fear Him.

14 For He knows how we are formed;

He remembers that we are dust.



Psalm 103



A Psalm of David.



1 Bless the LORD, O my soul: And all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; Who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction;

Who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things;

So that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

6 The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment

For all that are oppressed.

7 He made known his ways unto Moses,

His acts unto the children of Israel.

8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,

Slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

9 He will not always chide:

Neither will he keep his anger for ever.

10 He hath not dealt with us after our sins;

Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

11 For as the heaven is high above the earth,

So great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

12 As far as the east is from the west,

So far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

13 Like as a father pitieth his children,

So the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

14 For he knoweth our frame;

He remembereth that we are dust.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.

12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,

as we forgive our debtors.

13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.





6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 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 nothern reaches of Canada."



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.

2 Corinthians 13



Final Warnings and Greetings



1 (Dt 19:15; 2Co 12:14) This is the third time I am coming to you. "In the

mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established." (Dt 19:15.)

2 (2Co 1:23) I told you before, and foretell as if I were present the second

time. And being absent now, I write to those who have sinned before, and to

all the others, that if I come again, I will not spare anyone,

3 (Mt 10:20) since you seek proof of Christ speaking through me, who toward

you is not weak, but is mighty in you.

4 (1Pe 3:18; Ro 6:4; 1:4) For though He was crucified through weakness, yet

He lives by the power of God. So also we are weak in Him, but we shall live

with Him by the power of God serving you.

5 (1Co 11:28; Ro 8:10) Examine yourselves, seeing whether you are in the

faith; test yourselves. Do you not know that Jesus Christ is in you?-unless

indeed you are disqualified.

6 I trust that you will know that we are not disqualified.

7 Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved,

but that you should do that which is honorable, whether or not we may seem

disqualified.

8 For we can do nothing against the truth, but only for the truth.

9 (2Co 13:11; 1Th 3:10) For we are glad when we are weak, and you are strong.

We wish even your perfection.

10 (2Co 10:8; 2:3) Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being

present I should be sharp, according to the authority which the Lord has

given me for edification and not for destruction.

11 (Ro 15:33; Mk 9:50; Ro 12:16) Finally, brothers, farewell. Be perfect,

be of good comfort, be of one mind, and live in peace, and the God of love

and peace will be with you.

12 (Ro 16:16) Greet one another with a holy kiss.

13 All the saints greet you.

14 (Ro 16:20; Php 2:1; Jude 1:21) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,

and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

Amen.



[1] This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three

witnesses shall every word be established.

[2] I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second

time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and

to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:

[3] Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not

weak, but is mighty in you.

[4] For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power

of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power

of God toward you.

[5] Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.

Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be

reprobates?

[6] But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

[7] Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear

approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as

reprobates.

[8] For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

[9] For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we

wish, even your perfection.

[10] Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I

should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to

edification, and not to destruction.

[11] Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one

mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

[12] Greet one another with an holy kiss.

[13] All the saints salute you.

[14] The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the

communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.



2) Our Daily Bread for 3 December 2025 Titled

Growth Through Pain

By: Marvin Williams



Psalm 119:65-72



Teth

65 You have been good to Your servant,

O Lord, according to Your word.

66 Teach me good discernment and knowledge,

for I have believed Your commandments.

67 Before I was afflicted I wandered,

but now I keep Your word.

68 You are good and do good;

teach me Your statutes.

69 The proud have spoken lies against me,

but I keep Your precepts with my whole heart.

70 Their heart is as thick as fat,

but I delight in Your law.

71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted,

that I might learn Your statutes.

72 The law from Your mouth is better to me

than thousands of gold and silver coins.



[65] Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word.

[66] Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy

commandments.

[67] Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.

[68] Thou art good, and doest good; teach me thy statutes.

[69] The proud have forged a lie against me: but I will keep thy precepts

with my whole heart.

[70] Their heart is as fat as grease; but I delight in thy law.

[71] It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy

statutes.

[72] The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and

silver.



The brain is remarkably small, but stress can make it even smaller. Recent

research has revealed that cumulative stress can shrink the prefrontal cortex,

the part of the brain responsible for managing emotions, impulses, and social

interactions. This shrinkage is linked to anxiety and depression,

highlighting the toll that a lifetime of stress can take. But there's good

news - the brain's plasticity allows it to heal through intentional practices

like exercise, meditation, and meaningful relationships.



The psalmist in Psalm 119 understood this idea of growth and healing after

facing stress and hardship: "IIt is good for me that I have been afflicted,

that I might learn Your statutes." (v. 71). Affliction, though painful,

became the psalmist's teacher - taking us from being "astray" from God

to choosing to "obey [His] word" (v. 67). The psalmist expresses gratitude

for his bitter medicine and God’s goodness (v. 68). While he understood that

affliction and suffering could diminish him, he trusted God to use those

experiences to refine and restore him (v. 66).



Like our brains, our spirits are capable of being stretched. God uses this

stretching to cause growth and renewal. Through Scripture, prayer, and a

Spirit-inspired perspective, He can reverse the effects of our hardships.

He can use our afflictions for our spiritual growth, transforming

pain into purpose.



Reflect & Pray



How has God helped you grow in faith through suffering?

How have you embraced gratitude?



Loving God, thank You for teaching me through my trials.



To learn more about faith in pain, read Why?

Seeing God in Our Pain.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 4 - The Blessings of Grace Day 4 - freedom from Fear



Psalms 27:1



The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom will I fear?

The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom will I be afraid?



The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?

The LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?



Marcy was afraid of the dark. As a child she slept with a nightlight on,

and even she matured, she still had a fear of dark places.

When she was at home alone, she kept all the lights on,

and a small lamp at her bedside glowed through the night.

The psalmist David reflects that common fear of darkness when he says

"The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?"

David does not say, "The Lord brings light," but "The Lord is my light".

God is the source of understanding and security in our lives.

He is the One who can expose and deal with our fears.

When we are afraid - afraid of losing a job or a loved one,

afraid of making mistakes, afraid of being hurt, afraid of what others may

say about us - we can turn to the Lord who can handle our fears.

He is a "stronghold", a fortress of protection around us,

and in him we are safe.

Often we turn to other places for our security - to the bank account,

to a spouse or loved one, to the approval of the world.

We mistakenly think that these sources can provide a foundation of defence

against uncertainty of life. But when we find that people disappoint us, money

loses its value, and the praise of others is fleeting,

we must turn again to the true source of security, God alone.



Application



a) What sources of security have I trusted in besides God?

What was the result of that trust?



b) In what ways have I depended upon God for my security?



c) What spiritual truths can I see now that I could not see

when I lived in darkness?

2 Corinthians 11



Paul's Sufferings as an Apostle



16 (2Co 11:1; 12:6) I say again, let no one think that I am a fool.

Otherwise, at least receive me as a fool, so that I also may boast a little.

17 (1Co 7:12; 2Co 9:4) What I speak, I speak not according to the Lord, but

as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.

18 Seeing that many boast according to the flesh, I also will boast.

19 (1Co 4:10) For you tolerate fools gladly, seeing you yourselves are wise.

20 (Gal 2:4; 4:3) For you permit it if a man brings you into bondage, if a

man devours you, if a man takes from you, if a man exalts himself, or if a

man strikes you on the face.

21 (2Co 10:10; 10:1-2) I say to my reproach that we were too weak for that.

But whenever anyone is bold (I speak foolishly), I am bold also.

22 (Php 3:5; Ro 11:1) Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites?

So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I.

23 (1Co 15:10; 2Co 6:4-5) Are they servants of Christ? I speak as a fool.

I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure,

in prisons more frequently, in deaths often.

24 Five times I received from the Jews forty lashes minus one.

25 (Ac 14:19) Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned;

three times I suffered shipwreck; a night and a day I have been in the deep;

26 (Ac 14:5; 13:50; 17:5) in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils

of robbers, in perils by my own countrymen, in perils by the Gentiles, in

perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in

perils among false brothers;

27 (2Co 6:5; Php 4:12; 1Th 2:9) in weariness and painfulness, in

sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, and in cold

and nakedness.

28 Beside the external things, the care of all the churches pressures

me daily.

29 (1Co 8:13; 9:22) Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led into sin,

and I am not distressed?

30 (1Co 2:3) If I must boast, I will boast of the things which concern

my weakness.

31 (Ro 9:5; Jn 10:30) The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

who is blessed forevermore, knows that I am not lying.

32 In Damascus the governor under King Aretas secured

the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desiring to arrest me.

33 (Ac 9:25) But I was let down by the wall through a window in a basket

and escaped his hands.



[16] I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool

receive me, that I may boast myself a little.

[17] That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were

foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.

[18] Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.

[19] For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise.

[20] For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if

a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.

[21] I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit

whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.

[22] Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the

seed of Abraham? so am I.

[23] Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours

more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths

oft.

[24] Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one.

[25] Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered

shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;

[26] In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in

perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the

city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among

false brethren;

[27] In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst,

in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.

[28] Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily,

the care of all the churches.

[29] Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?

[30] If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine

infirmities.

[31] The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for

evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

[32] In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the

Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me:

[33] And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and

escaped his hands.



2 Corinthians 12



Visions and Revelations



1 (Gal 1:12; 2:2) Doubtless it is not profitable for me to boast.

So I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord.

2 (2Co 11:11; Ac 22:17) I knew a man in Christ over fourteen years ag

-whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows-such

a one was caught up to the third heaven.

3 And I knew that such a man-whether in the body or out of the body I cannot

tell, God knows-

4 (Lk 23:43; Rev 2:7) was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible

words not permitted for a man to say.

5 Of such a person, I will boast. Yet of myself I will not boast, except in

my weaknesses.

6 (2Co 11:16) For if I desire to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be

speaking the truth. But now I resist, lest anyone should think of me above

that which he sees me to be or hears from me.

7 (Nu 33:55; Eze 28:24) And lest I should be exalted above measure

by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh,

a messenger of Satan, to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure.

8 I asked the Lord three times that this thing might depart from me.

9 (Php 4:13; 2Co 12:10; Isa 40:29-31) But He said to me, "My grace is

sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."

Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ

may rest upon me.

10 (Ro 5:3; 2Co 13:4) So I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in

hardships, in persecutions, and in distresses for Christ's sake. For when

I am weak, then I am strong.



[1] It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions

and revelations of the Lord.

[2] I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I

cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such

an one caught up to the third heaven.

[3] And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I

cannot tell: God knoweth;)

[4] How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words,

which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

[5] Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine

infirmities.

[6] For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will

say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that

which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

[7] And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the

revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of

Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

[8] For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

[9] And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is

made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my

infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

[10] Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in

necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am

weak, then am I strong.



Paul's Concern for the Corinthian Church



11 (2Co 11:5; 11:1) I have become a fool in boasting. You have compelled me,

for I ought to have been commended by you, for I am in no way inferior

to the leading apostles, though I am nothing.

12 Truly the signs of an apostle were performed among you in all patience,

in signs and wonders, and mighty deeds.

13 (1Co 9:12; 2Co 12:14) For in what respect were you inferior to other

churches, unless it be that I myself was not burdensome to you?

Forgive me this wrong!

14 (Pr 19:14; 1Co 4:14-15) I am ready to come to you this third time.

And I will not be burdensome to you, for I do not seek what is yours,

but you. For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but

the parents for the children.

15 (Php 2:17; 1Th 2:8) And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you.

If I love you more, am I to be loved less?

16 But be that as it may. I did not burden you. Nevertheless, being crafty,

I caught you with deceit.

17 Did I take advantage of you by any of those whom I sent to you?

18 (2Co 8:6; Ro 4:12) I urged Titus to go, and with him I sent a brother.

Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same spirit?

Did we not walk in the same steps?

19 (Ro 9:1; 2Co 10:8) Again, do you think that we are defending ourselves

to you? We speak before God in Christ. We do all things, beloved, for your

edifying.

20 (Ro 1:29; 1Co 1:11) For I fear that when I come, I shall not find you

such as I wish, and that I shall be found by you such as you do not wish.

I fear there are debates, envying, wrath, strife, backbiting, whispering,

arrogance, and disorder.

21 (2Co 13:2; 1Co 5:1) And I fear that when I come again, my God will

humble me among you, and that I shall mourn for many who have sinned already,

who have not repented of uncleanness, sexual immorality, and lasciviousness

which they have committed.



[11] I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to

have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest

apostles, though I be nothing.

[12] Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience,

in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

[13] For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be

that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.

[14] Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be

burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not

to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

[15] And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more

abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

[16] But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I

caught you with guile.

[17] Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you?

[18] I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain

of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps?

[19] Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God

in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.

[20] For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would,

and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be

debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings,

tumults:

[21] And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that

I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the

uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

Day 337, 3 December 2025 - 10th Day of Advent



1) 2 Corinthians 10 , 2 Corinthians 11 , 2 Corinthians 12 , 2 Corinthians 13



2 Corinthians 10



Paul Defends His Ministry



1 (Mt 11:29; 2Co 10:10) Now I, Paul, who am lowly in presence among you but

bold toward you while absent, appeal to you by the meekness and gentleness

of Christ.

2 (2Co 13:2; 13:10) I beg you that when I am present, I might not have to be

bold with that confidence by which I intend to be bold against some, who

think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.

4 (Jer 1:10; 2Co 6:7) For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but

mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds,

5 (Isa 2:11-12; 1Co 1:19) casting down imaginations and every high thing that

exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into

captivity to the obedience of Christ,

6 (2Co 2:9; 7:15) and being ready to punish all disobedience

when your obedience is complete.

7 (2Co 5:12; Jn 7:24; 1Co 14:37) Do you look at things from the outward

appearance? If any man trusts that he is Christ's, let him consider again

that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.

8 (2Co 13:10) For even if I should boast somewhat more of our authority,

which the Lord has given us for edification and not for your destruction,

I shall not be ashamed,

9 lest I appear to frighten you by my letters.

10 (1Co 1:17; 2Co 11:6) "For his letters," they say, "are weighty and

powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible."

11 Let such a person consider this: that as we are in word by letters

when we are absent, we will also be in deed when we are present.

12 (2Co 3:1; Pr 26:12) For we dare not count or compare ourselves with those

who commend themselves. They who measure themselves by one another

and compare themselves with one another are not wise.

13 (Ro 15:20) But we will not boast beyond measure, but within the boundaries

which God has appointed us, which reach even you.

14 (1Co 4:15) For we are not overextending ourselves as though we did not

reach you, since we have come to you, preaching the gospel of Christ.

15 (Ro 15:20; 2Co 10:13) We are not boasting of things beyond our measure

in other men's labors. But we have hope that when your faith is increased,

our region shall be greatly enlarged by you,

16 to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you and not to boast in another

man's accomplishments.

17 (1Co 1:31; Jer 9:23-24) But, "Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord."

(Jer 9:24.)

18 (Ro 2:29; 1Co 4:5) For it is not he who commends himself who is approved,

but he whom the Lord commends.



[1] Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ,

who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

[2] But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that

confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as

if we walked according to the flesh.

[3] For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

[4] (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God

to the pulling down of strong holds;)

[5] Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself

against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to

the obedience of Christ;

[6] And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your

obedience is fulfilled.

[7] Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to

himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as

he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.

[8] For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord

hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be

ashamed:

[9] That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.

[10] For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily

presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.

[11] Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters

when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.

[12] For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with

some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves,

and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

[13] But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to

the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach

even unto you.

[14] For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached

not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel

of Christ:

[15] Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's

labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be

enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

[16] To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in

another man's line of things made ready to our hand.

[17] But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

[18] For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord

commendeth.



2 Corinthians 11



Paul and the False Apostles



1 (2Co 5:13; 11:4) I would to God you could bear with me a little in my folly.

Indeed, bear with me.

2 (Isa 54:5; Hos 2:19-20) For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy. For

I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin

to Christ.

3 (Rev 12:9; Ge 3:4; Jn 8:44) But I fear that somehow, as the serpent

deceived Eve through his trickery, so your minds might be led astray

from the simplicity that is in Christ.

4 (1Co 3:11; Gal 1:6-8) For if he who comes preaches another Jesus,

whom we have not preached, or if you receive another spirit, which

you have not received, or another gospel, which you have not accepted,

you might submit to it readily enough.

5 For I think I am not in any way inferior to the most eminent

of the apostles.

6 (1Co 1:17; Eph 3:4) Even though I am unpolished in speech, yet I am not

in knowledge. All things about us have been thoroughly revealed to you.

7 (2Co 12:13) Did I commit a sin in abasing myself that you might be exalted,

because I preached to you the gospel of God free of charge?

8 I robbed other churches by accepting wages from them to serve you.

9 (1Th 2:6) Furthermore, when I was present with you and was lacking,

I was a burden to no one. For the brothers who came from Macedonia

supplied what I lacked. In all things I have kept myself from being

burdensome to you, and so will I keep myself.

10 (Ro 9:1; Ac 18:12) As the truth of Christ is in me, no one shall stop

me from this boasting in the regions of Achaia.

11 (2Co 12:15; 12:2-3) Why? Because I do not love you? God knows.

12 (1Co 9:12) And I will continue doing what I am doing, that I may cut off

the opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be found equal to us

in what they boast about.

13 (Rev 2:2; Gal 1:7) For such are false apostles and deceitful workers,

disguising themselves as apostles of Christ.

14 (Gal 1:8) And no wonder! For even Satan disguises himself as an angel

of light.

15 (Php 3:19; 2Co 3:9) Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also

disguise themselves as ministers of righteousness, whose end will be

according to their works.



[1] Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear

with me.

[2] For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you

to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

[3] But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his

subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in

Christ.

[4] For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not

preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or

another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him.

[5] For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.

[6] But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been

throughly made manifest among you in all things.

[7] Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted,

because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?

[8] I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.

[9] And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man:

for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia

supplied: and in all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto

you, and so will I keep myself.

[10] As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting

in the regions of Achaia.

[11] Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth.

[12] But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them

which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we.

[13] For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves

into the apostles of Christ.

[14] And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

[15] Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as

the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

From On Eagle's wings Day 3



Taste and See

Taste and see that the Lord is good. Psalm 34:9 (NIV)



In July, I returned to Behchoko, a First Nations community where

we had held a Bible Camp two summers ago. The town, northwest

of Yellowknife, had to evacuate ahead of the forest fire just as our

children’s program was ending.

This past summer, new trees were being planted. New houses were

being built. The community is looking forward to a bright future for

their young people.

As the boys and girls approached us the first day, a little girl raced

towards me, calling out to me by name! As she welcomed me back, I

felt surprised, humbled, encouraged.

A following day, this girl gave me a slice of bread. Not real bread,

but a craft made from paper, and part of our TASTE curriculum.

"This is for you!" she said. Printed on the bread slice were the

words: TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD. Words which I

remember hearing when I was her age. A wonderful reminder that

Creator wills goodness for his people.

In this Advent season, we look forward to the Christmas celebration

of our loving Creator coming among us in the birth of Jesus. As we

read through the Scriptures, we also look toward God’s coming to

us in the risen Jesus Christ at the close of history. We go forward in

our daily living in the confidence that our Lord Jesus, the Bread of

Life, wills good for us.

Let us reflect upon that little girl's slice of bread. Let us "Taste and

see that the Lord is good."



Rev. Dr. Gary Watts

Bible Camp Volunteer



Conclusion:



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

giver in His will.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear Father, how prone I am to answer

quickly and in anger. Please guide me by Your Spirit

and help me weigh my responses wisely."



Pray to the Lord and pray to Jesus who delivers your from Darkness.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the bleesings of the Lord.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know about the Upcomping Rapture

and the Resurrection of the Dead.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -

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

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

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



Pray for the Church to make the Gospel accessible to all



Pray that Christian Leaders would seek God's heart for vision,

wisdom and direction.



Pray God, give us patience to await your blessing and the faith to

believe that it is coming. Amen.



Pray: Thank you, God, for your radiant creations! Amen



Pray: Lord, we pray today:" O come, O Rod of Jesse's stem, from every foe

deliver them that trust your mighty power to save. Bring them it victory

through the grave. Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to you. O Israel!"

In Jesus' name. Amen ... alleluia ... and AH-HA!



Creator God, you call us to trust in your goodness for us and our

people. Forgive us. Guide us to discover and to follow your ways in

our daily lives. Amen.



Ask God to give Tunisian Christians wisdom

and courage to share their faith despite restrictions.



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.