|
Saturday, October 26 2024
Good Morning Lighthouses! Shine Jesus shine in and through us! So what have you heard from God so far today and what's the plan for Him to use you? Who are you partnering with?
We need a few more cars for the Trunk or Treat. If interested contact Sarah or Don. Pastor Don can put his car there if someone needs a base to operate from. (I'll even--well, Karen will, decorate it). Keep praying for many new connection points and for Jesus to shine through us.
Pray for today's Bread Ministry (10-12) and our dinner Chosen gathering tonight (6-8). Last week's Chosen left us reeling from a very hard thing and trying to grasp why God allows some things or heals some people but not all. We may not be able to answer those kinds of questions this side of heaven. The Chosen does a great job of showing Jesus' love and compassion and presence with us always while honoring the Father and His perfect plans. Jesus weeps with you. He loves you. He knows you and all you are going through. He forgives you and helps you repent and move forward in faith. And He always does the Father's will. That's just some of the Good News we carry to share. He sends us to live, love and walk with others, just as you are and just like Jesus. What amazing, grace, love and help we have in Christ! PTL! There are many around us walking through some very hard things right now that need us and Jesus' love through us. Ask God to send you and to open your eyes to see, your heart to respond well and His mind to know what to say and do and what not to. He loves to answer those kind of prayers.
Our devotionals for today sort of thread through this. Check them out below. Do you know how much God loves you? Do you know the plans He has to prosper and not harm you as you follow Him and allow Him to nurture and grow you into your calling? Have you learned how to wait and pray and prepare as you seek God to lead you and move you when the time is right? He has given us a Helper, Comforter, Advocate, and Intercessor in the Holy Spirit. PTL! We need all the help we can get! And he is with us always--we are one! PTL! Keep asking Him to help and to lead you to your greater potential in Christ and to learn to live and love more like Jesus. And keep on keeping on as you allow the Holy Spirit to refresh, teach and lead you. God has some great plans for you, even today! PTL! Trust and follow Him one step of faith at a time! And keep asking Him to lead you to your helpmates and co-laborers. I think of the a Bread and Clothing and 2 peas in a Pod Brunch volunteers and how they have become God's teams that share the love of Christ while helping the least of these. Thank God for these volunteers and keep praying for them. Thank God for His provision and ask how He might want you to help with prayer, giving and volunteering. He does have custom made parts for you in His Good News Delivery Co! Rejoice and follow well today! I'm praying for you and God is with you working all things together. Amen!
SY:
CS:
ODB:
|
Making his preflight checks for a flight from Charlotte, North Carolina, to New York City, a flight attendant noticed a passenger visibly anxious and concerned about flying. He sat in the aisle, held her hand, explained each step of the flight process, and reassured her that she was going to be fine. “When you get on an aircraft, it's not about us, it's about you,” he said. “And if you’re not feeling good, I want to be there to say, ‘Hey, what’s wrong? Is there something I can do?’ ” His caring presence can be a picture of what Jesus said the Holy Spirit would do for believers in Him.
Christ’s death and resurrection and ascension were necessary and beneficial to save people from their sins, but it would also create emotional turbulence and deep sorrow in the disciples’ hearts (John 14:1). So He reassured them that they wouldn’t be left alone to carry out His mission in the world. He would send the Holy Spirit to be with them—an “advocate to help [them] and be with [them] forever” (v. 16). The Spirit would bear witness about Jesus and remind them of all Christ did and said (v. 26). They would be “encouraged by” Him during difficult times (Acts 9:31).
In this life, everyone—including believers in Christ—will experience the turbulence of anxiety, fear, and grief. But He’s promised that, in His absence, the Holy Spirit is present to comfort us.
By Marvin Williams
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
What’s been troubling you in your life? How can you seek the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit?
Dear Jesus, thank You for the Spirit’s comfort and counsel.
Learn how to walk daily with the Holy Spirit.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit as the “Advocate” (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:7). Other translations use the word Comforter (kjv) or Counselor (rsv) . Christ told His disciples that the Spirit would teach them “all things” and remind them of “everything” Jesus had said and taught (14:26). The Spirit is the very presence of God and will be with us “forever” (v. 16). On the day of Pentecost, fifty days after Christ’s resurrection, God sent the Holy Spirit to all believers in Jesus (Acts 2:1-4). Today, everyone receives the Holy Spirit when they receive Christ as Savior (10:44). We can trust what “the Spirit of truth” (John 15:26) speaks into our hearts and minds. The Spirit gives believers spiritual gifts to serve Jesus and to help us grow more like Him (1 Corinthians 12:1-11; Galatians 5:22-23). The Spirit also convicts unbelievers of sin and the need for salvation (John 16:7-11).
Alyson Kieda |
|
|
|
|
|
UR: Consistent Practice
Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving. - Colossians 4:2 (NRSVUE)
I enjoy creating art of all kinds, including painting. One of my art teachers said that daily practice is the only way to improve one’s painting skills. I found this to be true when I became overwhelmed with personal responsibilities and put away my brushes and paints. When I picked them back up after quite some time, I found it difficult to paint well. It was only after consistent practice that my skills returned.
Likewise, at one time I became distracted by the things of the world and neglected my Bible, along with my faith practices. When I encountered challenges, I found it difficult to work through them. Thankfully, a family member gifted me with a new Bible and a subscription to a devotional booklet. This was a gentle reminder that it was only through consistent practice in getting closer to God that I could — along with our Creator — design a better picture for my life.
Many years later, I remain grateful to the wise, thoughtful person who provided me with that reminder. Sometimes it is helpful when we encourage one another to get back into the habit of practicing our faith.
Today's Prayer
Omnipotent God, may we be consistent in practicing our faith. Help us to encourage others in their faith as well. Amen.
TWFYT:
Saturday, October 26 2024
This Week:
Tue:
10-11 Zoom Huddle. All welcome!
12-12:30 Zoom prayer for our trunk or Treat
Wed:
10-12 Bread Ministry
6-8: Dinner Huddle and Family Ministries
Friday
2 PM Package hot dogs for Trunk or Treat
4:30: Close 5th street and set up for Trunk or Treat. (we are permitted to use St. John's lot. Only cars being used for Trunk or Treat permitted on our lot
URGENT NEED!!!! We need at least four more cars from our church to have a good trunk or treat. Please contact Don or Sarah if interested. Expectation is that you provide some candy and the church will supplement. (we expect 800-1000 kids) I am buying more candy this week to help any that need candy supplied. Please we need you to make this outreach work! Thank you!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I'm not sure because I really don't watch TV or keep up with the news, but I may have been triggered by that FB post I shared about yesterday. I do try to stay neutral while encouraging you to seek candidates that honor God and to pray for all to know God and follow His ways. (Check out Harvest prayer about that below). Anyway, someone said that the protester did not yell "Jesus is Lord" but something about pro life. Either way, Kamala mocked them. God does not approve of abortion. It's like when in the Old Testament days when people sacrificed their babies on the altar of Moloch. How many babies have been sacrificed on the altar of convenience, self serving and even for "freedom". Jesus is Lord! Amen! And God opposes abortion. Be informed in your vote and pray for the sanctity of life and for God's ways and candidates to be raised up and honored. May His Kingdom come and will be done and may we vote informed and well. Amen
(OKAY, enough of that...I'm shrinking back and turning off the noise. My heart breaks for this nation, our division, lies and deceit and ungodly choices. I want to focus on the souls God is giving me to lead to Him and disciple in His ways. Help me Lord. Turning off the noise is something I still need to work on!)
Good Morning Thriving from the Pit Followers of Jesus! Oh please Lord! Yesterday Sarah discussed how we all have faced and maybe are facing some pit of despair or another. We are or may be waiting on the Lord as we enduring some imprisoning circumstances. BUT GOD!!!! God is preparing, equipping and stretching us in many different ways to lead us to His best. Sometimes that stretching shows up as God teaches us to patiently wait on Him for His perfect timing or provision to come. So, how ya doin' with dat? How can we help each other to be more like Joseph or Job? "The Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Praise to the Lord!"
God created us and placed us where we are for such a time as this. We have potential and purposes to strive toward, chief of which is becoming more like Jesus--living and loving more like Him. Focus on that today, this week and for the rest of your life! You are made for such a time as this. What does God have for you today to shine His Light and make His love know. Who does he have for you to lead to Him. Yes let's commit to earnestly focusing on that! That's more than enough for today. You are saved, equipped, being prepared, empowered and sent to change the world one souls at a time. We all have age and circumstance appropriate purposes in His Good News Delivery Co. Focus on and work on that and find some partners to journey with towards that. That is God's best and why we are still here. May we focus on things above and earnestly pursue Him and His best. Yes, help us Lord!
Below are a few devotionals that thread through this. What's God saying to you? How might you pray, respond, serve today? He does have great plans for you to focus on. Turn off the noise and keep your eyes on Jesus! Amen!
Harvest Prayer:
|
|
October 21 - DAY 25 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION
Praying For Justice And Accountability In Government
|
|
|
“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8 NIV).
Author, Steve Johnson, wrote an insightful article about the biblical role of government. Here are some excerpts from “What Is the Role of Government According to the Bible?”:
According to the Bible, “all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God” (Romans 13:1). This means that it is God who has ordained the institution of government and that the role and purpose of government is mandated by Him. It is also important to understand that only God is sovereign, and the role of government is limited. This is because God has not only ordained the government but also the church and the family. They have their own authority structures and the state should only interfere in exceptional circumstances in order to carry out justice.
The essential role and purpose of government is to exercise justice. Government is to seek, serve, and promote the common good of the people, not the good of the rulers (Romans 13:4). It must promote and never prevent progress toward the peace and prosperity of the society. It is to preserve human dignity. Harm done to another person is a violation of human dignity. Although God has ordained government and its purposes it does not have the solutions for all the problems and troubles in society. Those who govern are fallible people just like us needing God’s wisdom just as much as we do.
Sovereign Lord, You have ordained government for the sake of justice for Your people so that we may walk humbly and in peace together before You. Help us to pray for our government officials more than we criticize them. Give us love for those who are not governing according to Your principles, and through our prayers, turn their hearts towards You. May our nation once again be a shining light on a hill for Your glory.
|
|
- Ask God for biblical justice to once again rule in our nation.
- Pray for the eyes of those who have been deceived or blinded by the devil to be opened to the truth of His true justice.
- Pray that all people, including our government officials, will do justice through loving kindness and walk humbly with Him.
- Pray that all government officials will be held accountable and that those who continue to govern with evil intent will be removed.
- Pray that justice will be fair and equitable for all people in our nation.
|
|
|
Upper Room: All-Embracing Love
Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or peril or sword? - Romans 8:35 (NRSVUE)
One day in the grocery store parking lot I heard a young woman singing a song about God. As I listened to her singing, I became fascinated with her voice and how much love she put into each note of the song. When she finished, I walked over to her and asked her why she was singing that particular song. She smiled and said, “God loves everyone. You won’t see one person out here that God doesn’t love. That’s why I am singing.” Her answer surprised me; yet her words were true. When I left, I looked around at the people in the parking lot and thought of how God loves each one of them.
With so many painful events taking place in the world that divide and dehumanize, it is good for us to take a minute to realize that God loves each person no matter what they may be going through at any given moment.
Today's Prayer
O God, teach us to love as you do so that we can show love to all people. Amen.
TWFYT:
Sarah Young:
Charles Stanley:
Saturday, October 26 2024
Today: 10-11 Zoom Huddle. All welcome!
12-12:30 Pray for Light in the Night Trunk or Treat. Pray for more cars and helpers. Thank God for His provision. Pray for new connections to neighbors. Pray for unity with Revival Church. Pray for Protection for all and health.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Good Morning Known, Transformed, Bringers of Good News! Amen! Please Lord! May that be us! God knows you and is calling you by name! He created you with potential and when you received Christ as Your Lord and Savior you were transformed and sealed with His Spirit. That Spirit in you helps you to repent, step into your new nature and go love like Jesus. He also leads you to the plans God created you to do. How cool! Thanks Lord! And we are sent to share this Good News, share our joy and make disciples. May we earnestly step into all of this for God's glory.
You know, one of my struggles and prayers is for God to come examine my heart, reveal any sin or deficiencies and to help me repent and step more fully into my created purposes and operate more fully from my new nature. Pursuing this earnestly all the time, is a real challenge and then the Holy Spirit reminds me that I a being held to a higher standard, as God's Shepherd, than other people. Help me Lord to be fully yours and to fulfill my purposes well! Thank You for Your Spirit in me to help and guide and for calling me to Your Good News Delivery Co. called St. Matt's! Help me to prepare disciple making disciples and Good News bringers. Thanks! Your Kingdom come and will be done in, through and around me and us! May all I think, say and do be for your glory. May I never shrink back or hold back but always stand firm in Christ and on Your Word. Thanks! Amen! How might you help and encourage me and others to step into their potential more fully? Begin with prayer and a covering and then partner together to go live, love and make disciples like Jesus. May we work earnestly at fulfilling our purposes as God leads us to become His dynamic movement that brings Him alive and launches revival all around the area. He does have great plans for you and us! PTL! Step into them! Continue to pray through Harvest Prayer's prayer starters for the Church and our nation too. (see below) We are sent to change the world one soul at a time and with one step of faith after another. Allow the Holy Spirit full access and submit to His leading. Then one day you will hear, "Well done good and faithful servant!" Please Lord!
Spend some time with our devotionals for today as they thread through this thinking and God's Word for you, me and us today. We are to be always ready as we continue to pray and invite God to transform, mold, prepare and send us. We are to release all, including our anxiety and fear to Him. He does see you, know you and love you so much that He will help you to move towards the greater things you are created for. PTL! We are being made new and transformed into His image and sent just as we are to be His vessels of revival and new life. Come Holy Spirit! Fill us as we die to self and crucify and repent of some things. Lead us to your best and our purposes. Cover and protect us and use us well. Thank You! We love You Lord. Help us to trust, obey and follow well today! Thanks! Amen!
What's God revealing to you today? How is He informing your prayers or wanting to use you? Seek first His Kingdom and He will add the things you need to go and love well. Who might He be partnering you with to pray, encourage and go with? I know He knows you and has some great custom made things for you today and beyond. Allow Him to transform and lead you. I'm praying for you and here to help process and pray and maybe even go with you. Shalom!
Harvest Prayer:
|
|
October 22 - DAY 26 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION
Praying For The Protection And Return To The Constitution And Bill Of Rights
|
|
|
“So speak, and so act, as those who are to be judged by the law of freedom” (James 2:12 NIV).
The Constitution sets forth how the government of the United States should work. It establishes a Congress, a President, and an independent court system. It stipulates what the government can and can’t do. It guarantees basic treasured rights. This system, founded on godly principles, has worked well for over 200 years.
On March 23, 1798, less than 12 years after the signing of the U.S. Constitution, our 2nd President, John Adams, called for a day of national prayer: “The safety and prosperity of nations ultimately and essentially depend on the protection and the blessing of Almighty God, and the national acknowledgment of this truth is not only an indispensable duty which the people owe to Him but a duty whose natural influence is favorable to the promotion of that morality and piety without which social happiness cannot exist nor the blessings of a free government be enjoyed.”
Supreme Court Justice Earl Warren (1891-1974) stated: “I believe the entire Bill of Rights came into being because of the knowledge our forefathers had of the Bible and their belief in it: freedom of belief, of expression, or assembly, of petition, the dignity of the individual, the sanctity of the home, equal justice under law, and the reservation of powers to the people...I like to believe we are living today in the spirit of the Christian religion. I like also to believe that as long as we do so, no great harm can come to our country.”
Our government is facing tremendous opposition to the godly principles upon which it was founded. Let’s pray for America to repent and return to God’s design for our nation:
Heavenly Father, our nation was founded on Your Word and the divine guidance You have so clearly given us. We pray for our leaders in each branch of government who have sworn an oath to “faithfully execute” the duties of their respective offices. Help them to “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States of America.”
|
|
- Pray that our nation’s government officials will return to the principles of unity, justice, peace, safety, the welfare of all, and the blessings of liberty.
- Pray that those holding government offices in our nation will be continually convicted by the Holy Spirit to honor God.
- Pray for the protection of believers in our government who deeply desire to walk uprightly before God as they serve and protect the Constitution of our nation.
- Ask God to help our nation’s citizens to more fully understand the principles established in our Constitution and Bill of Rights so that they will be more willing to defend it.
|
|
|
Connection Prayer Devotions Sign Up
|
|
|
|
|
TWFYT:
Upper Room: Sudden Changes
Cast all your anxiety on [God], because he cares for you. - 1 Peter 5:7 (NRSVUE)
Sometimes sudden events change our routine and our focus. One day I was moving a bed when it landed on my right foot, fracturing my big toe. This injury changed my daily routine. But though I can’t do certain things right now, I still insist on attempting them.
As I think about my situation, I can clearly see how God takes care of us and delivers us every day in the face of our thoughtless, hasty, and often stubborn actions.
While my activity is limited right now due to my fracture, my prayer is that Jesus will teach me to be more attentive, obedient, and calm as I seek to trust and surrender my life to the Lord, my Savior and Protector.
May God help us hear the voice of Jesus who speaks and says, “Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matt. 28:20).
Today's Prayer
O Lord, guide us through the sudden changes of everyday life. May your light illuminate our steps. We pray as Jesus taught us, “Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. 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” (Matt. 6:9-13, KJV). Amen.
Charles Stanley
Sarah Young:
ODB:
|
In the worst UK residential fire since World War II, fire engulfed the twenty-four story Grenfell Tower building in West London, claiming the lives of seventy people. Investigations revealed a primary reason the flames spread so quickly was the cladding used as part of renovation that covered the building’s exterior. The material was aluminum on the outside but had an extremely flammable plastic core.
How was such a dangerous material allowed to be sold and installed? The product’s sellers failed to disclose poor fire safety test results. And buyers, drawn by the material’s cheap price tag, failed to heed warning signs. The shiny cladding looked nice on the outside.
Some of Jesus’ harshest words were directed at religious teachers He accused of covering corruption behind a nice-looking exterior. He said they were like “whitewashed tombs”—“beautiful on the outside” but inside full of dead bones (Matthew 23:27). Instead of pursuing “justice, mercy and faithfulness” (v. 23), they were focused on looking good—cleaning “the outside of the cup” but not the “greed and self-indulgence” inside (v. 25).
It’s easier to focus on looking good than to bring our sin and brokenness honestly before God. But a nice-looking exterior doesn’t make a corrupt heart any less dangerous. God invites us to let Him transform all of us from the inside (1 John 1:9).
By Monica La Rose
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
When have you tried to disguise corruption? How can you prioritize internal change?
Gracious God, please help me not to hide my brokenness but let You transform all of me.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Each of the four paragraphs in Matthew 23:23-32 begin with a warning against hypocrisy: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!” The religious leaders were condemned for bringing sacrifices while ignoring “more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness” (v. 23). These words are similar to what God said through the prophet Micah: “What does the Lord require . . . ? To act justly and to love mercy” (Micah 6:8). Micah’s audience was also offering sacrifices without being truly committed to God; they were shiny on the outside but dead inside.
J.R. Hudberg |
|
|
|
|
|
Saturday, October 26 2024
Today is Clothing Closet from 10-1. Praise God for our volunteers (most are not members). Thank God for His provision and opportunities to be Christ and to show His love and care to neighbors. Pray for unity of the team and for God to move through their ministry, begin some relationships that will lead to a relationship with Jesus.
Tomorrow we worship at 10 in person and on Zoom. Invite some friends (or enemies). Pray for some to come and try us out. Pray we worship in Spirit and Truth and glorify God. Pray for Sarah as she brings the Word.
We are collecting for our Light in the Night Trunk or Treat (Our Rally Day envelopes will be used to fund this and Family Ministries. We can use candy or money to buy needed supplies. Pray that we connect to many neighbors on Friday and begin relationships that lead to a relationship with God. Pray for unity with Revival Church as we serve together. Pray for provision including enough cars to fill our lot. Sign up to help on bulletin board and talk to Pastor Don or Sarah for how you might help.
Pray for next Sunday's brunch and for our Bishop Sizemore who will joining us and preaching. Sign up sheet for brunch is on bulletin board or let Lori know you are coming. Invite some friends for this day of worship, food, fellowship and fun.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Good Morning Drawing Close to God Servants of the Lord! Be still and know, pray, plan and go love like Jesus! He has some amazing things in store for you and us for the rest of the year and beyond as we seek to Become More in '24--more of Him and less of me. Our devotionals for today (below) thread through all of this. God's always speaking and wanting to lead you to His best. PTL! What's He saying to you and what will you do about that? Who is He wanting to partner you with as you go live and love more like Jesus? Pray into that! Be still and know then go!
Keep your eyes on Jesus! Die to self, take up your cross today and crucify self and sin as you prepare to follow Jesus. As you dwell in His loving presence, He will cleanse, purify and prepare you to follow. He is our all in all! But is He the center of your focus and life? Draw close and He promise to draw close to you and walk with you to his best for you. Amen! You are custom made for such a time as this. God has created you, gifted you and placed you right where He wants you. PTL! Ask Him to lead you to His perfect plans for you and for a willing heart. Don't grow weary as you pursue Jesus's best and endure living in this world with all it's anti-God ways and distractions. Persevere! Remember that waiting on the Lord is an active thing as we keep about His business, allowing Him to lead in His timing to His perfect plans for you and us as His Body. It's a time to meditate on His Word, pray, plan with others and keep doing the last thing He led you too until He leads to the next. Keep seeking, knocking, preparing and stepping out in faith with Him as your guide. I often think of Proverbs 3:5-6's reminder to not lean on my own thinking but to allow Him to steer to his best.
There's a lot to digest here. May God draw you close, speak to your heart and direct you to your part in His Good News Delivery Co. Be still and know. Prepare and go. Live and love more and more like Jesus every day and every step of faith along the way. He does have some awesome plans just for you and for us as His Body. He is leading us to become His dynamic movement to transform this world! Amen! Go prepared and in his peace today!
Sarah Young:
ODB:
|
As the “voice of the Denver Nuggets,” team chaplain Kyle Speller is most known for his rip-roaring, public address announcing during the championship basketball club’s games. “Let’s go!” he thunders into the mic, and thousands of onsite NBA fans, as well as millions more watching or listening to the action, react to the voice that earned Speller’s nomination as the 2022 All-Star Game PA Announcer. “I know how to feel the crowd and kind of set that home court atmosphere,” he says. Still, every word of his voice artistry—featured also in TV and radio commercials—is to glorify God. His work, Speller adds, is “just doing everything for an audience of One.”
The apostle Paul stressed a similar ethic to the Colossian church, whose members let doubts about Christ’s divinity and sovereignty seep into even their practical lives. Instead, wrote Paul, in “whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Colossians 3:17).
Paul added, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (v. 23). For Kyle Speller, that includes his role as a chaplain, of which he says, “That’s kind of my purpose here . . . and the announcing is the icing on the cake.” Our own work for God can be just as sweet for our audience of One.
By Patricia Raybon
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
What’s the key factor in your work ethic? How would working as for God change your perspective?
Thank You for my work, Jesus, and inspire me to do it all as for You.
For further study, read How Can I Find Satisfaction in My Work?
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us of whom we serve: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart . . . . It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of living before the audience of One. Notice these statements from Jesus: “My food . . . is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work” (John 4:34). “I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me” (6:38). “The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him” (8:29). In everything He undertook, Jesus had one overarching purpose—to please His Father. That truly is what it means to live before the audience of One. With the Spirit’s help, we can aspire to live out His example.
Bill Crowder |
|
|
|
|
|
Chuck Swindoll:
Upper Room: Uniquely Made
You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance. - 1 Corinthians 12:27-28 (NIV)
We have a shelf in our home where we store an assortment of tools. Some are new and others are old. Some require electric power, while simpler hand tools require only arm strength. Together the tools allow us to complete a multitude of projects, ranging from small crafts to home improvements.
These tools remind me how God created each of us as individuals, but made us all in the divine image. God has blessed each of us with specific talents, abilities, and strengths to build the kingdom of God on earth. We are better equipped to serve God and others when we pray, meditate, study scripture, and worship with other believers in the community of faith.
Just as each tool on our shelf was created for a certain task, we as believers can work together in our churches and communities to build strong relationships. We can support others by showing the love God revealed to us through the life of Jesus Christ. And no matter where we are, God shapes us and guides us toward a life of loving service.
Today's Prayer
Heavenly Father, guide our words and actions as we work with others in unity to further your kingdom. Amen.Joyce Meyer
Charles Stanley
TWFYT:
Saturday, October 26 2024
Good Morning Faithful Ones of God--True Worshipers! Let us enter His courts with thanksgiving and praise! Prepare your hearts to worship in Spirit and Truth. May we stay faithful to God always and show our worship as we trust and obey. May we be prepared vessels of the Potter as we follow Jesus to our custom made purposes for such a time as this. You know that thought comes from the story of Esther who braved the uncertainty of being faithful to God and His people. Like her, we are being prepared for such a time as this. I thought God had me all ready to share thoughts from our devotionals today. And I may at least still just share copies of those below. BUT GOD! He opened my eyes to an urgent prayer item. Join me and Harvest Prayer in interceding for our nation and leaders.
As I was preparing to write this, I saw a post from a Kamala rally. People shouted, "Jesus is Lord!" Her response was laughter and saying that they must be at the wrong rally and come on get real. And the crowd of God haters erupted in cheers. Help us Lord!
Jesus is Lord! And He will raise up His leaders. If we want to see revival in this nation, we need to carefully examine the candidates and seek God's guidance for our votes. And we need to do our part for such a time as this! What candidates honor God and will allow us to continue to worship and share the Good News freely? Vote for those. The Bible says, "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." Is Jesus the Lord of your life? We can see that for many, He is not and they laugh at and belittle His followers. Engage with and pray through the Connection devo of Harvest below. Pray earnestly for this nation, for God to bring revival and for Him to raise up His leaders for such a time as this! You are being prepared to be His vessels for such a time as this too! May we be God's revivalists as we go and share the Good News of Jesus and our salvation. May we see and expose the darkness hidden as light. Jesus is the Light of the World. May that Light shine bright through us, His people, custom made servants, prepared for such a time as this! May we be His faithful ones living this life as an act of worship! Amen! It's time to rise up as prayer warriors and faithful servants! Move us Lord!
Harvest:
|
|
October 20 - DAY 24 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION
Praying For Exposure Of Malicious Intent In Government
|
|
|
“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit, you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit, you will recognize them.” (Ephesians 4:2-3 NIV).
“Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them” (Ephesians 5:11).
One of the best biblical accounts of the exposure of malicious intent is the story of Esther, who was raised up “for such a time as this” in order to expose the evil plan behind a plot to kill the Jewish people.
The Persian king’s evil official Haman was bent on the total eradication of the Jews (very much like the enemies of the Jews today), simply because of his hatred for one Jewish man, Mordecai, who had refused to bow before him. The plot was discovered and Queen Esther was tasked with saving her people. She heroically risked the king’s anger by appearing before him without being officially summoned. Esther very cleverly revealed the plot to the king, the edict to kill the Jews was reversed, the evil official Haman was exposed and hanged, and Mordecai was elevated to the most important position as second to the king. Even though His name is not mentioned, God’s hand was very clearly at work throughout the story of Esther.
Merciful Father, You have the good of those who love You in Your heart, and You love those who do not yet walk in Your ways or who have turned their backs on You. Please work in my heart and the hearts of all of Your people to expose anything that displeases You. Help us to quickly repent before You. Then, Lord, would You work in our nation as You did through Your servant, Esther? Would you root out and expose the dark deeds, intents, and plots that are so evidently at work in the government of America? Send revival, Father! Use us to bring light to the darkness like never before!
|
|
- Pray in the powerful name of Jesus that God will push back the forces of darkness and bring evil into the light.
- Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your life and the lives of everyone in our nation to recognize and resist the influence of evil.
- Pray that you and the church in our nation can boldly declare faith in God’s protection and unfailing love.
- Pray that the rotten fruit of evil intent and evil deeds in our government can be clearly seen and turned away from.
- Pray that God will raise up godly men and women to take the places of those who seek to do evil.
|
|
|
Connection Prayer Devotions Sign Up
|
|
|
|
|
Here are the rest of the devotionals God led me to this morning. Keep your eyes fixed on things above, looking for God to be at work, and willing to join Him as He leads you. You are His and He is with you--always. Trust and obey and glorify Him in all you think, say and do. Allow Him to shape and prepare you and send you to your custom made mission for such a time as this! Amen My hope is in the Lord! Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness! Know His peace, love and joy beyond understanding! Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! May He rule and reign in your heart and direct your steps for such a time as this! Amen!
Upper Room: Looking for God
Those who look to [the Lord] are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. - Psalm 34:5 (NIV)
My job vanished suddenly. Though my supervisor had told me, “You have planted good seed; we appreciate you, so don’t lose hope,” a shadow covered my heart. I had been struggling with a season of losses: the death of a beloved friend, a missed opportunity to move abroad, an empty nest after our three children had all moved away.
But the Psalms gave me strength; I found myself crying along with them: “I have come into the deep waters. . . . I am worn out calling for help. . . . My eyes fail, looking for my God” (Ps. 69:2-3). Eventually, though, I read the words above from Psalm 34: “Those who look to [the Lord] are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” I had found God’s promise!
So do not lose sight of God’s love. When dark thoughts come, ponder the psalmist’s words and look for God’s presence: in scripture, in prayer, within your spirit, in beautiful friendships, in acts of love and forgiveness. When we see no light ahead, we can trust the psalmist’s words; God is right beside us.
Today's Prayer
Dear God, sometimes it is not easy to rest in your love and care. But we choose to fight against anxiety and sorrow with your help and that of the people who care for us. Keep us safe in difficult times. Amen.Chuck Swindoll
Sarah Evans:
Joyce Meyer
Our Daily Bread
|
In 1921, artist Sam Rodia began construction on his Watts Towers. Thirty-three years later, seventeen sculptures rose as high as thirty meters over Los Angeles. Musician Jerry Garcia was dismissive of Rodia’s lifework. “That’s the payoff,” said Garcia. “That thing that exists after you’re dead.” Then he said, “Wow, that’s not it for me.”
So what was the payoff for him? His bandmate Bob Weir summed up their philosophy: “In eternity, nothing will be remembered of you. So why not just have fun?”
A wealthy, wise man once tried to find the “payoff” by doing everything he possibly could. He wrote, “I said to myself, ‘Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good’ ” (Ecclesiastes 2:1). But he noted, “The wise, like the fool, will not be long remembered” (v. 16). He concluded, “The work that is done under the sun was grievous to me” (v. 17).
The life and message of Jesus radically counter such shortsighted living. Jesus came to give us “life to the full” (John 10:10) and taught us to live this life with the next one in view. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,” He said. “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20). Then He summed it up: “Seek first [God’s] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (v. 33).
That’s the payoff—both under the sun and beyond.
By Tim Gustafson
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
How do you want to be remembered? What does it mean to “store up treasures in heaven”?
Father God, please help me serve You joyfully with eternity in view.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Should we view this life’s frustrations as a gift? For that matter, is even death itself a gift? Those are questions we must consider given the Teacher’s (see Ecclesiastes 1:1) conclusion here: “The wise, like the fool . . . must die” (2:16). The prospect of his own death compelled him to ponder where he might find true meaning. If he’d found satisfaction in the temporary pleasures and even the good things he pursued, the Teacher might not have acknowledged the only true source of fulfillment—God Himself (see 12:13). Awareness of our own mortality can prompt us to seek God.
Tim Gustafson |
|
|
|
|
|
The Word for You Today
Charles Stanley
Friday, October 18 2024
Nov 2024 St. Matthew’s Prayer Guide
Pray that we become a dynamic movement of God led by pastors and laity who have a burning passion for God and a missionary zeal to reach those who don’t yet know Christ
Pray for St. Matt’s to become a house of Prayer for the Nations and for many to embrace their power and purpose in praying
Thank God for His provision and protection. Pray we continue to sow lavishly while being the best stewards of all His blessings. Pray for our budgeting process to be led by wisdom from God. Pray we have faith to sow lavishly.
Pray for our Bread and Clothing ministries to connect to neighbors and meet needs. Thank God for the volunteers.
Pray for our Wed. night ministries and our Sun. 2 Peas in a Pod Brunches to flourish and connect people to God.
Pray for small groups to be started in the building, homes, and businesses around the area. Pray for leaders for them. Ask God to lead you to some partners to journey with.
Pray we bring joy and love alive. Pray we find new connection points to our neighbors and start growing friendships that lead to a relationship with Jesus.
Pray for harvest workers to be raised up from the harvest that is coming. Thank God for the harvest. Ask Him what your part is in His Good News Delivery Co. and for help to step into it.
Friday, October 18 2024
Thank God I'm Forgiven Friday! Amen and PTL! What love, grace and mercy He showers over us! Jesus loves us so much that he hung on the cross for your forgiveness. he had you and still has you on His mind and in His heart. Yes what love! Thanks Lord for forgiving a wretch like me--amazing love and grace are from You1 Thank You! Help me repent of all sins and allow You to refine and reshape me. Come! Have Your way with me! Thank You Amen!
Good Morning Redeemed, Molded, Prepared, Followers of Jesus. He is our Good Shepherd. He is Love. He has great plans for you and is shaping and preparing you for those. PTL! Yesterday we discussed following the Good Shepherd and today's devotionals flow from that and led to this blog. God inhabits our praise and leads us through the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Amen!
Sometimes the journey is very hard and the enemy loves kicking us when we are down. Sometimes we just want to give up as we weary of staying true always. Our Daily Bread talks about being spread out too thin and asks, "How can you put your trust in God when you're tired and overwhelmed?" great question, right? Check out this song. You're gonna be okay. Turn off the noise and tune into God. Fix your thoughts on things above: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cj_RNYbynU4. Don't give up. Seek some fellow travelers to hold you up and help you along too.
The rest of our devos flow through this reminder: God is with you and making a way. Keep your eyes on Jesus and feet following. Be renewed and directed as you dwell in Hid Love and Word. And go live and love like Jesus and help someone along the way today. God loves you and has great plans for you today. He inhabits your praise. Keep worshiping and your eyes on things above. I'm praying for you and here if you need to chat or pray. Shalom--dwell in His Love today!
ODB:
|
In J. R. R. Tolkien’s book The Fellowship of the Ring, Bilbo Baggins starts showing the effects of carrying, for six decades, a magical ring with dark powers. Weighed down by its slowly corrosive nature, he says to the wizard Gandalf, “Why, I feel all thin, sort of stretched, if you know what I mean: like butter that has been scraped over too much bread.” He decides to leave his home in search of rest, somewhere “in peace and quiet, without a lot of relatives prying around.”
This aspect of Tolkien’s story reminds me of an Old Testament prophet’s experience. On the run from Jezebel and wrung out after his battle with false prophets, Elijah badly needed some rest. Feeling depleted, he asked God to let him die, saying, “I have had enough, Lord” (1 Kings 19:4). After he fell asleep, God’s angel woke him so he could eat and drink. He slept again, and then ate more of the food provided by the angel. Revitalized, he had enough energy for the forty-day walk to the mountain of God.
When we feel scraped thin, we too can look to God for true refreshment. We might need to care for our bodies while we also ask Him to fill us with His hope, peace, and rest. Even as the angel tended to Elijah, we can trust that God will impart His refreshing presence on us (see Matthew 11:28).
By Amy Boucher Pye
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
When you’re wrung out and exhausted, what actions tempt you? How can you put your trust in God when you’re tired and overwhelmed?
Strengthening God, I look to You for true rest. Please help me put my hope in You and fill me with Your presence.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Elijah’s plea for God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4) may give us some insight into his condition. His wish for death wasn’t just because he feared Jezebel’s death threat, but because he felt he was “no better than [his] ancestors” (v. 4). It’s possible that his depression was rooted in the reality that though he’d trusted God to do the impossible when He consumed the burnt offering (18:38-39) and witnessed His power when He sent rain (vv. 41-46), he’d immediately fled in fear of Jezebel. Perhaps he felt that his own faith, like that of his ancestors, was weak and fickle. Or he may have been discouraged because he’d failed to rid Israel of Baal worship and idolatry.
J.R. Hudberg |
|
|
|
|
|
Sarah Yong:
Upper Room: Dwelling on Blessings
You have multiplied, O Lord my God, your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us; none can compare with you. Were I to proclaim and tell of them, they would be more than can be counted. - Psalm 40:5 (NRSVUE)
Recently, I decided that every night when I lie down to sleep, I would give thanks for three things I noticed that day. Some days my gratitude is for something as simple as finding what I needed at the grocery store, getting an encouraging text or email, or feeling the warmth of beautiful sunshine. Other times my prayers of gratitude focus on finding the solution to a computer problem I had spent hours working on or rejoicing with a friend who experienced healing. Many nights, my list is far longer than three things! I am realizing God’s goodness encompasses my day in ways I often did not notice before.
Focusing on God’s goodness has boosted my spirit immensely. Sleep often comes much more quickly than before, and I am blessed with peace. I have found that when I go to sleep dwelling on God’s blessings, I wake up the same way. What a difference this practice has made in my attitude and feeling of well-being throughout the day!
Today's Prayer
Gracious God, open our eyes to the wonderful blessings we receive each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Joyce Meyer:
Charles Stanley:
Friday, October 18 2024
Today: Bread Ministry 10-12, Chosen Dinner Huddle with Family Ministries 6-8pm
Wagner's update below
Good Morning Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus, Joy-Filled, Encouraging, Co-Laboring Followers of Jesus! Hey that's a mouthful but PTL! That is us or at least we are moving towards being and doing these! Pronounce these over you and us in prayer. Keep working at becoming the people you are created to be and doing what you are created to do for today and for such a time as this. We are teammates, gathered to encourage each other and grow God's Kingdom. He has great plans for us to activate in prayer and action as we seek His Kingdom first, fix our thoughts on things above and follow Jesus! Say this out loud as you proclaim it and enact these in prayer: I am/we are Fixing Your Eyes on Jesus, Joy-Filled, Encouraging, Co-Laboring Followers of Jesus! Amen!
Check out our devos below that flow through this thinking and truths. IDK why but Go awoke me at 1:30 to discuss these, encourage me and call me to releasing these blessings in prayer and to encourage and spur you on. Lord willing He will allow me some more sleep before I begin my 12+ hour day. He has great plans for me which include being still at His feet, receiving and releasing what He has for me and us today, allowing Him to prepare me to write this blog and then move forward informed as He leads me step by step through this day. He has plans for you custom made for you today too. Talk to Him and your teammates about these and pray into and get busy following Jesus with your eyes fixed on God and His plans.
I've had an amazing day with the Lord already and it's only 3:30am! PTL! Sometimes, like Jesus, I can't resist getting up early and abiding in His presence before preparing for His plans for the day. The neatest part is that this is part of Jesus' easy yoke for me and such a blessing as I seek, trust and work at following each step. It's inviting Jesus to be my Lord and Shepherd and to inform my prayers and choices. I've already spent much time praying for you and for God to bring His plans alive to and through you and our Body. Here's the devos as God ordered them for us today. What's He saying to you? What will you do about it? How might He have you pray? Whose your buddy? Seek first His Kingdom and all kinds of blessings will flow from that and no matter what you are facing or traveling through, He can fill you with joy overflowing! Amen! Receive it and all He has for you today and then follow Jesus with your teammates. Watch for what He's about to do and be ready to join Him as you step into your purposes for today and then just worship. Yes, what joy and peace we can experience today! PTL! Put on that custom fitted easy yoke of Jesus and travel with Him today as that leads to much joy! Amen!
NOW I CAN GO REST AND ABIDE AND REFESH BEFORE I HEAD OUT FOR A GREAT DAY FOLLOWING JESUS! Pray for God to use me well today. Appreciate your prayers! Really need them! Thanks! I am...Fixing My Eyes on Jesus, Joy-Filled, Encouraging, Co-Laboring Follower of Jesus! Yes and Amen! I receive that Lord!
ODB:
|
Go at the speed of joy. The phrase dropped into my mind as I prayerfully considered the year ahead one morning, and it seemed apt. I had a propensity to overwork, which often sapped my joy. So, following this guidance, I committed to working at an enjoyable pace in the coming year, making space for friends and joyful activities.
This plan worked . . . until March! Then I partnered with a university to oversee the trial of a course I’d been developing. With students to enroll and teaching to deliver, I was soon working long hours to keep up. How could I go at the speed of joy now?
Jesus promises joy to those who believe in Him, telling us it comes through remaining in His love (John 15:9) and prayerfully bringing our needs to Him (16:24). “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete,” he says (15:11). This joy comes as a gift through His Spirit, who we’re to keep in step with (Galatians 5:22-25). I found I could only maintain joy during my busy period when I spent time each night in restful, trusting prayer.
Since joy is so important, it makes sense to prioritize it in our schedules. But since life is never completely under our control, I’m glad another source of joy—the Spirit—is available to us. For me, going at the speed of joy now means going at the speed of prayer—making time to receive from the Joy-Giver.
By Sheridan Voysey
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
What saps your joy? How will you rest in the Joy-Giver today?
Holy Spirit, please fill me afresh today with Your love, peace, and joy.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Love, joy, and peace are key words in John’s gospel. In John 15:9-15, love and joy are associated with obedience. One can’t choose joy without choosing obedience: “If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (vv. 10-11). Love and joy are listed in Galatians 5:22-23 as fruit or evidence of the Holy Spirit’s presence in the lives of believers in Jesus: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Disobedience to Christ’s commands, specifically the command to love, robs us of joy. Empowered by the Spirit, however, we can obey Him, which results in joy that the world can’t give and can’t take away.
Arthur Jackson |
|
|
|
|
|
SY:
CS:
UR: Strength to Move Forward
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. - Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
The moon jellyfish is a fascinating animal. As they swim, their wispy tentacles gracefully trail behind their mushroom-shaped body. When a moon jellyfish loses or breaks tentacles due to injury, it cannot regenerate new ones. Instead, it works tirelessly to reorganize and reposition its remaining tentacles so they are symmetrically spaced around its body, allowing the jellyfish to efficiently navigate the water. The jellyfish’s muscles contract and relax constantly to rearrange its tentacles, a process that can take days.
I think about the losses I have experienced, and I recognize a parallel with the jellyfish. When a loved one dies, we cannot replace them; their loss might shatter us. But as we grieve, we also gradually heal and adjust. We work to bring back stability in our lives and look for strength to move forward. This process takes time and looks different for each person.
The psalmist reminds us of the promise that God will be close to us in our tragedy and heartbreak. As we navigate our grief, we can ask God to strengthen our spiritual muscles and sustain us on the journey. God provides healing and repair for our brokenness and “saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
Today's Prayer
Heavenly Father, when our hearts are broken, help us navigate the waters of grief. Sustain us and give us strength as we adjust to new circumstances. Amen.
TWFYT:
Wagner's update
|
|
|
Greetings Friends,
We’re grateful for your faithful prayers over the last nine weeks as we transitioned back to Kenya, unpacked and re-settled into our “other home”, and started our 28th new beginning at RVA.
|
|
| New Beginnings in our Kijabe Community |
|
| There have been some very noticeable changes in our local community since we left nine months ago. You may remember the incredible devastation from the heavy rains at the end of April this year. Our friends are slowly rebuilding their lives after so much loss. As we’ve reconnected with many of them over the last few weeks, our conversations have been seasoned with hearts of thanks and hope. What a testimony to God’s faithfulness through incredibly difficult circumstances. PRAY for God’s healing comfort in grief and loss, as well as His continued provision of resources as the rebuilding of lives continues. |
|
| New Beginnings in our RVA Community |
|
| Change is constant on our school campus, whether it’s graduating seniors or the comings-and-goings of staff, new beginnings are always on the horizon. PRAY for new students and staff who recently joined our school community and are still getting settled into the rhythm of life here. As we began this school year, the RVA School Board received nominations for a new Superintendent and will be interviewing candidates this week. PRAY that God will clearly direct them in this decision and bring the best person to lead RVA for the next several years. |
|
| New Beginnings in our Dorm |
|
| We happily welcomed nine 5th & 6th grade boys into our dorm family at the end of August; two returning from last year and seven brand new to RVA. It has been fun getting to know our boys and their families. Two boys had older siblings in our dorm just a few years ago and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting their families. Considering the huge transition it is to change schools…and…do it away from their parents, our boys are truly amazing rock stars! PRAY for our boys to feel secure, loved, and “at home” as we care for them this year. |
|
| New Beginnings in our “Day Jobs” |
|
| Brian is excited to be back in the classroom teaching two sections of AP Calculus, working closely with the math department faculty, and helping RVA implement our growth and improvement plans for this 7-year accreditation cycle with the Middle States Association. Missy has started her new TCK administrative role with AIM and joined the education consulting team supporting AIM’s Africa-based families whose children are in a variety of traditional and non-traditional school settings. PRAY for good balance as we serve students and families in a variety of roles both in and out of the dorm. |
|
| New Beginnings in our Family |
|
| While amidst our own transitions, our three kids and their spouses have been transitioning, too. There have been new beginnings at home (Rachel & family relocated to another state), new beginnings at school (Hannah & Micah started grad school programs), and new beginnings at work (Lynnsi joined Interaction International as a TCK Specialist and is gathering prayer and financial partners with the goal of beginning this support-based ministry position soon). Check-out Lynnsi’s website LW - TCK Specialist to learn more. PRAY for our big kids and all their new beginnings! |
|
| New Beginnings in our Students |
|
| As our students return from midterm break today, RVA begins our annual Spiritual Emphasis Week (SEW) - five days of focused worship and deliberate teaching from God’s Word. This is often a time when our students experience new beginnings in their faith journey. The theme for this week is “Deeply Rooted” from Colossians 2:7. PRAY for Mr. John Njoroge, a well-known apologetics speaker born and raised in the community near RVA, as he shares with our students. In 2011, John and his wife, Leah, opened Valley Light Home in the town just below RVA that provides residential care for orphans and abandoned children in a family setting. PRAY that our students will not be distracted or discouraged by the evil one who wants to fill their minds with doubt. PRAY that they might know Christ more fully during this time. |
|
| “I am about to do something new. It is beginning to happen even now. Don’t you see it coming? I am going to make a way for you to go through the desert. I will make streams of water in the dry and empty land.” ~Isaiah 43:19 |
|
|
We deeply appreciate your love, care, and prayers in all our new beginnings!
Brian & Missy |
|
|
|
Friday, October 18 2024
NOTE: The Rally Day Envelope in your giving box will be used to boost the Family Ministries Fund. This fund is used to buy most of our food, supplies for activities and is being used to purchase stuff for our Trunk or Treat next week. We expect to invest close to or more than $1000. for the Trunk or Treat and we spend anywhere from $150 to over $500 weekly for food and supplies. Thanks for giving! God keeps providing in miraculous ways through your faithful giving and support!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Good Morning Faithful Followers of the Good Shepherd! Amen! May this be so of us Lord! Thanks for being our Good Shepherd! Thank you for the faith You have given us. We do believe! Forgive our unbelief! Move us to grow in faith and following well always. Thanks for the great plans you have for me, each of us and us as Your Body. Your Kingdom come and will be done in, through, and around me and us for Your glory! Thanks! Keep growing our relationships with You and open our eyes and move our feet to what You are doing and have for us. Thanks! Lord send Your Spirit to fill us, counsel us and guide us today. We cast all anxiety unto You and seek to grow in trust as we follow You and see Your faithfulness and good plans come to life. Come! Have Your way with me and us today and glorify Your holy name. We are the flock of the Great and Good Shepherd. Come shepherd us! And lead us to those sheep that need Your rescue and use us to help. Show us Your good plans today and move our feet to join and do our parts. Thanks! Amen!
Today, my devotionals thread through this line of thinking. I love how God does this. He is speaking to some of you too. Be still and know and be open and receive, then trust and obey and follow Jesus to His best plans for you today. He is calling you by name and inviting you to follow Him and into a deeper relationship. How cool! He longs to bring His rest, shalom and joy to you today! Rejoice! Check out the devos below. What's God saying to you? I'd love to hear!
Last night during the Chosen Dinner Huddle we discussed how God's ways are not our ways and the need to stop leaning on our own understanding of things and His will. We discussed God's three answers to our prayers: Yes, Wait, and No, I've got something better. We discussed how hard it is to keep our focus on God, especially as we move through grief and can't see Him or sense His presence with us and can't understand why. Please, prepare your hearts and minds for the hard times by working on your relationship with our ever-present, caring, God today. Last night we experienced how it must be for God as He grieves with you and your not understanding that He has allowed what He has to to lead to His best plans for you, us and His Kingdom. Man, it hurts sometimes! BUT God! Keep your minds fixed on our Good Shepherd always. He is calling you by name and saying come and allow me to embrace you and walk with you through this dark valley. There are still waters and green pastures to come. His shalom is available. He says, I do have plans to prosper you, even when you can't fathom how "this" is good. He is there with His open arms of love and promised comfort and strength to move forward in faith. Allow Him in and to help. Invite Him in to lead. Remind Him of His promises. Trust and follow your Good Shepherd today--always. Amen! He is worthy f all praise, glory and honor. he has created and gifted you for such a time as this. Dwell in His love and yoke to your Good Shepherd. And receive His peace and strength. I'm praying for you and for God to lead us to His best. May it be so Lord! Come!
Chuck Swindoll:
Joyce Meyer:
Sarah Evans:
Our Daily Bread:
The world was amazed when four siblings ages one to thirteen were found alive in Colombia’s Amazon jungle in June 2023. The siblings had survived forty days in the jungle after a plane crash, which killed their mother. The children, who were familiar with the jungle’s harsh terrain, hid from wild animals in tree trunks, collected water from streams and rain in bottles, and ate food such as cassava flour from the wreckage. They also knew which wild fruits and seeds were safe to eat.
God sustained the siblings.
Their incredible story reminds me of how God miraculously sustained the Israelites in the desert for forty years, which is recorded in the books of Exodus and Numbers and mentioned throughout the Bible. He preserved their lives so that they would know He was their God.
God turned bitter spring water into drinkable water, provided water from a rock twice, and guided His people in a pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire by night. He also provided manna for them. “Moses said to them, ‘It is the bread the Lord has given you to eat. This is what the Lord has commanded: Everyone is to gather as much as they need’ ” (Exodus 16:15-16).
The same God provides us with “our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). We can trust Him to provide for our needs “according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). What a mighty God we serve!
By Nancy Gavilanes
|
How have you experienced God’s provision? What are you currently trusting Him for?
Dear God, thank You for providing for my every need.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
The children of Israel experienced God’s provision in the wilderness for forty years (see Exodus 16:35; Nehemiah 9:20-21). The Scriptures are full of reminders of how God faithfully provides for us. One great promise is found in the book of Lamentations, a collection of laments over the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. The bleak collection of poems is full of sadness, but there in the midst of lament and despair we discover a timeless, priceless jewel: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23). Even in seasons of dark lament, God’s faithfulness shines.
Bill Crowder |
|
|
|
|
|
The Upper Room: God's Good Purposes
We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. - Romans 8:28 (NIV)
A highway that I use to travel to and from work was upgraded several years ago. Despite the promises of an improved motoring experience and reduced commute times, I felt apprehensive and occasionally frustrated by the roadwork. However, the disruption was worthwhile when the completed project resulted in freely flowing traffic. Another upgrade is now in progress, and I have learned to trust those charged with the planning and execution of the work for the final result, despite present appearances.
God’s purposes in our lives, like the roadwork, can appear to be disruptive, inconvenient, and unclear. But when we set aside our misgivings and put our trust in God, Romans 8:28 assures us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.” In all circumstances, especially the challenging ones, we can trust that God is working in our lives.
Today's Prayer
Lord God, help us to trust your work in our lives so that we better reflect you to the world. Amen.
The Word for You Today:
Don 
Friday, October 18 2024
This week:
Tue. 10-11 Zoom study group. All welcome
12-12:30 Zoom prayer with Revival Church for Light in the Night
Wed. 10-12 Bread Ministry
6-8 Chosen Dinner Huddles for families and adults.
Sat. 10-1 Clothing Closet
Don't forget to pray for and sign up to help with our Trunk or Treat Fri Oct 25 from 6-8. We are in need of candy or donations for candy to be able to give to those passing through our lot.
Sunday Oct 27th Bishop Sizemore joins us to preach and eat with us at our 2 peas in a Pod brunch. Invite some friends. Sign up with Lori, Sarah or me.
_________________________________________________________________________
Good Morning Very Loved, Called By Name, Redeemed of the Lord! We are created in love to receive and give love. Our Creator, Jesus is calling you by name this morning and reminding you that you are His and that He has redeemed you. He is hearings your heart this morning and answering your prayers. He is in the process of working all things together for good for those who believe and are called according to His purposes. (That's us!) He has some great custom made plans for you to discover and step into. His Holy Spirit in you has gifted and empowered you and will go before you to spur each other on, encourage and build His Church. We are His and He is ours. Dwell in Him and His love this day. Receive His healing, stretching, molding and refining love. Allow Him full access as you surrender and offer yourself to Him. He is worthy of all of our being in worship and all praise glory and honor. Amen! Worship with full abandon! Receive His Light and Love. Let go and give all your hurts, anxiety, sickness, addictions to Him who is our Deliverer, Healer and Chain Breaker! He is our Savior! Allow Him to prepare you to go live and love like Jesus. We are all custom made for custom purposes--some big, but most small faithfulness's to go and love like Jesus. Today is the day of the Lord's favor! Receive it and share it boldly. All of this flows through the devotionals I used during my quiet time this morning. Check them out prayerfully below. What's God saying to you? How is He redeeming and wanting to bless you? How will you honor and worship Him? He really does have some amazing things planned just for you. PTL! Step into them as you step more fully into your new nature and your created purposes and potential in Christ.
God continues to minster to me through a full weekend of worship, ministry, study and prayer. Yesterday we discussed Col. 3:1-17. We are called to live Christ as we repent of all sin and unrighteousness and allow God to transform us and move us to live this life earnestly. Why? For in this life Christ is all that matters and He lives in us. He not only lives in us but wants to go love through us and use us as His vessels to redeem the world around us. Amen! My Sat. night worship overflowed into our worship yesterday morning. It's time to praise the Lord for He inhabits our praise. As He comes to us He leads us to go incarnate Christ to the world around us and change the world one step of faith at a time and one soul at a time. God has prepared you for someone and someone for you. Who is your buddy to go with and pray with and encourage? Watch and allow Him to use you, pray through you and transform through you. We are blessed to go be a blessing and then we are blessed back for being faithful. Amen! Then God led me to Revival Church's worship and ministry night last evening. They do this every second Sunday evening from 5-7. All are invited to join the next one. I'd like to encourage you to try it out. Last night the Holy Spirit fell on our sanctuary and brought ministry to many and healing to some. Miracles are coming and God is moving our building to become a house of prayer for the nations. Again several pastors and leaders prayed over me and our church. They prophesied some great things to come to us and through us. Receive these and keep praying for miracles and connections to new people to connect to God's healing redeeming, delivering love. God is on the move! Amen! And He does have great plans just for you and us! PTL! Receive them and release them in prayer and obedience. Amen! Yes God is on the move! Hallelujah! Revival is growing and will come alive in and through us as we surrender and allow God to use us for His glory. That is an act of worship that God finds a sweet aroma. You are loved, redeemed and being prepared to go live and love like Jesus today and for such a time as this. We are made for more and He's not finished with us yet! This is the year of the Lord's favor! Step into it! Amen! PTL! Come Jesus!
Joyce Meyer:
Charles Stanley:
The Word for You Today:
The Upper Room: Just Let Go
Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28 (NIV)
When my sister and I were younger, we were given a zip line for Christmas, which our father installed between two trees. My sister and I loved our zip line and wanted our cousin to join in on the fun. She was a little nervous at first, but after watching us, she decided to try it. She was doing great until she got closer to the tree at the end. We repeatedly yelled at her to let go, but she held on — hitting the tree and falling backward onto the snow. Thankfully, she was not injured.
At the time, I couldn’t understand why she would not simply let go before hitting the tree.
I wonder if God ever wants to yell at us to “just let go” when we try to do everything on our own, carrying things we were never meant to carry alone. God loves us and offers us rest. We can find this rest when we let go of what we’re holding and turn it over to the One who can truly give us peace.
Today's Prayer
Dear Lord, help us turn our burdens over to you. Guide us to the peace that only you can provide. Amen.
Our daily bread:
|
When my mom was in hospice and nearing her last days on earth, I was touched by the genuine kindness of a nursing home caregiver. After gently lifting my frail mother from her chair and tucking her into bed, the nursing assistant caressed Mom’s head while leaning over her to say, “You are so sweet.” Then she asked how I was doing. Her kindness moved me to tears then and still does today.
Hers was a simple act of kindness, but it was just what I needed in that moment. It helped me to cope, knowing that in this woman’s eyes my mom wasn’t just a patient. She cared for and saw her as a person of great worth.
When Naomi and Ruth were bereft after the loss of their husbands, Boaz showed kindness to Ruth by allowing her to glean leftover grain behind the harvesters. He even ordered the male harvesters to leave her alone (Ruth 2:8-9). His kindness was prompted by Ruth’s care for Naomi: “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband” (v. 11). He saw her not as a foreigner or widow but as a woman in need.
God wants us to “clothe [ourselves] with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (Colossians 3:12). As God helps us, our simple acts of kindness can cheer hearts, bring hope, and inspire kindness in others.
By Alyson Kieda
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
When has someone shown you a simple act of kindness? How did it inspire or encourage you?
Dear God, I want to be clothed in kindness. Please give me opportunities to show it to others.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Israelite landowners were told to intentionally not harvest all the grain so that the poor could glean the leftovers (Leviticus 19:9-10; 23:22; Deuteronomy 24:19-22). In obedience, Boaz permitted the poor to glean in his fields (Ruth 2:3). When Boaz found out that Ruth was a close relative, he invited her to get her food from his land exclusively (vv. 8-9). He protected her from harm and provided her with water and food (vv. 9, 14). He even ordered his servants to deliberately “pull out some stalks for [Ruth] from the bundles and leave them for her to pick up” (v. 16).
K. T. Sim |
|
|
|
|
|
Harvest: Thank God for our volunteers and His provision to our care giving ministries, of bread, food, cloths and compassionate prayer.
|
|
October 14 - DAY 18 OF 40 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR OUR NATION
Praying For The Poor, Homeless, Depressed, And Sick In America
|
|
|
“Give justice to the weak and the fatherless; maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked” (Psalm 82:3-4 NIV).
Jesus was very pointed when He spoke about the “least of these” to His followers. He was also clear (James 2:15-17) that faith without works is dead. We can be concerned for the least and the lost in our nation without actually doing anything for them. But Jesus offers a promise for those who will act in faith: “One who is gracious to a poor person lends to the Lord, and He will repay him for his good deed” (Proverbs 19:17).
One incredible truth about prayer is that when we seek God on behalf of others, He gives us a fresh depth of compassion and love for them. The act of prayer is a conduit for the Holy Spirit to speak kindness, generosity, and the desire to care and comfort into our lives. Prayer changes our trajectory of activity to focus on those whom God puts into our lives to bless. Our nation is filled with people who are in desperate need of a touch from Jesus through His people! “And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me’” (Matthew 25:40).
God of comfort, forgive my lack of compassion for the forgotten, the needy, the sick, and the disenfranchised people all around me. Renew my heart to look at people as You see them, and to care for them as You desire me to. Wake up Your church, Lord, to see with fresh eyes the needs before us. May the Holy Spirit prompt and urge us to step up and care for those in need so that more people in our nation will see You at work and put their trust in You.
|
|
- Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a purposeful life of compassion, filled with the joy of giving.
- Pray that you are quickly able to see the needs around you and respond as God leads.
- Ask God to help you encourage people in your family and in your church towards love and good deeds (Hebrews 10:24).
- Ask the Father to give creative solutions to His people to meet the needs of their communities with love and compassion so that His glory will be evident to all.
|
|
|
|
|
LISTEN ONLINE
