|
Saturday, October 26 2024
Pray for our Light in the Night Trunk or Treat tomorrow. Thank God for His provisions and volunteers. Pray for a few more cars or servants to join us. Pray for many to be drawn to the Light and for many to see Jesus, feel His love and be drawn to Him. Praise God for our unity with Revival Church. Pray for this to be a stepping stone to more activities together. Pray God would be glorified and He would begin to draw many to Him and for revival to begin. Thank Him for all He will do!
Good Morning Restored, Praying, Obedient Servants! AMEN! This salutation and pronouncement comes right from my devotionals this morning (below). God is always speaking, directing, correcting and loving us and loving through us. Our prayers are informed from our time with Him and in His Word and even through our obediently following Jesus. He has redeemed and restored us and is enabling and empowering us to follow His Way and example as we work at living and loving more like Jesus. That's a step by step journey of faith that produces good and lasting fruit and points others to Jesus and His way. He leads us beside still waters and restores our souls because He has brought rest to our weary souls as we don His easy yoke. That's ceasing to strive in our own strength and leaning on our own understanding. That flows to His leading us to His greater things and good and lasting fruit. That is moving us towards becoming producers of good fruit and maturing in Christlikeness. Amen! May we be a people persisting in prayer and standing firm in faith. Pray on His armor and stand firm in faith today. Pray we distance ourselves from the drama and for our emotions not to hold sway over us or our choices. Pray we would bless and encourage each other and build up His Church together. Pray He would continue to bless and lead our church in our desire to become His dynamic movement with a burning passion for God and missionary zeal to reach the lost. Thank Him for that! Praise God for the servants He has given us and our heart to serve the least of these, feed the hungry, cloth those in need and minister to a lost and weary people. Ask Him to continue His good work in and through you and us and thank Him for answering our prayers and directing our steps!
He loves you and has some really good plans He is working together through many differing circumstances for your, our and others good. Worship. Offer yourself. And follow Him one step of faith at a time. watch for what He's doing and join Him. Keep praying and inviting others in. Who are you inviting Sunday to come worship and fellowship with us? God is bringing in the harvest. PTL! Keep praying for harvest workers and ask Him to lead you to your part in His Good News Delivery Co. We all have a part and He has created you for such a time as this and has gifted and empowered and is interceding for you to be successful in your quest to become more and more like Jesus and doing more and more of what He created you to do! yes rejoice! PTL! and keep at it! Breakthrough is on the way! Amen!
Sarah Young:
Charles Stanley:
The Word for You Today:
The Upper Room: Looking Beyond
Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2 (NRSVUE)
I felt my faith failing me. God seemed far away, and praying felt futile; I couldn’t figure out what was wrong. That Sunday at church
I sat down in the pew, opened the bulletin, and an offering envelope fell into my lap. It was for earthquake relief in Africa.
That was it! That was the answer I was looking for. God was calling me to look outside myself, to turn my attention to others. I felt God’s presence with me in that moment. Out of gratitude to God for showing me a way through my struggle, I stretched my budget and placed an offering into the envelope.
Looking only within ourselves, we can easily lose sight of our place in God’s purposes. The apostle Paul told us to bear one another’s burdens. In this way, we find the abundant life Jesus promised. We find our true identity as Christians when we care for others.
Today's Prayer
O Lord, when we get lost within ourselves, remind us to find our identity as Christ-followers in our service to others. Amen.
Our Daily Bread:
|
For years, the Horn of Africa has suffered from a brutal drought that has devastated crops, killed livestock, and imperiled millions. Among the most vulnerable—like the people at Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp who’ve fled from wars and oppression—it’s even more dire. A recent report described a young mother bringing her baby to camp officials. The infant suffered from severe malnutrition, leaving “her hair and skin . . . dry and brittle.” She wouldn’t smile and wouldn’t eat. Her tiny body was shutting down. Specialists immediately intervened. Thankfully, even though the needs are still great, an infrastructure has been built to provide immediate, life-or-death necessities.
These desperate places are exactly where God’s people are called to shine His light and love (Isaiah 58:8). When people are starving, sick, or threatened, God summons His people to be the first to provide food, medicine, and safety—all in Jesus’ name. Isaiah rebuked ancient Israel for thinking they were being faithful with their fasting and prayers while ignoring the actual compassionate work the crisis required: sharing “food with the hungry,” providing “the poor wanderer with shelter,” and clothing “the naked” (v. 7).
God desires for the hungry to be fed—both physically and spiritually. And He works in and through us as He meets the need.
By Winn Collier
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
What kinds of hunger do you see around you? Where is God inviting you to offer help?
Dear God, please help me be part of how You bring food, love, and comfort to those who are hungry and in distress.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
In calling out ancient Israel’s sin, Isaiah is told: “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet” (58:1). The word translated “trumpet” refers to a musical instrument made from a ram’s horn, which was used to call entire communities to hear urgent announcements. The nation had turned their religious activities into a way of serving themselves and hoping to gain personal benefit from God, even while exploiting those with less power than them (vv. 3-4). This was a failure so serious, it should be exposed with a trumpet call. To serve God faithfully, the prophet proclaimed, required them to “loose the chains of injustice” (v. 6). Failing to do so was “rebellion” (v. 1).
Monica La Rose |
|
|
|
|
|
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
Today: Zoom Huddle 10-11; Prayer for Trunk or Treat with Revival church, noon-12:30 on Zoom (all welcome) Link: Today Noon and 6:30 pray with Revival Church for Light in the Night Trunk or Treat. Link:
Topic: Light in the Night Prayer Call Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet every Tues at noon and/or 6:30 PM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9852381129?pwd=V2oXjq2YIpVu2btu0b7Nk4j2Bax7Wl.1&omn=84653669862
Meeting ID: 985 238 1129 Passcode: prayer
Good Morning Lavishly Sowing Prayer Warriors and Servants of the Lord! Oh please keep or start sowing lavishly for revival, new connection points, new ministry opportunities, Light in the Night, and for God to lead new families and children to our fellowship in prater and actions. Our fervent, lavish prayers do produce His plans and good fruit to come alive. Check out a few devos on that today and keep praying! We need your prayers! God answers your prayers because you are clothed in Jesus' righteousness. Amen! Pray for His Kingdom to come and will to be done. Pray for our vision team to see and hear and make His plans for the rest of the year and into 2025. He has great plans for us and fruit is budding. may we see, follow and produce good and lasting fruit as we sow lavishly in prayer and action. May we be the best stewards of all His blessings and follow Jesus well! Amen! Come Jesus! Lead us today and always to be lavish sowers and great fruit producers for Your glory. Amen! And join us as we pray through the day and serve always and incarnate Jesus daily. I'm sowing lavishly over you, our Church and ministries. May God use us well! Amen
TWFYT:
CS:
ODB:
|
It was June 2016 during the official celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s ninetieth birthday. From her carriage, the monarch waved to the crowds, passing in front of long lines of red-coated soldiers standing at perfect, unflinching attention. It was a warm day in England, and the guards were dressed in their traditional dark wool pants, wool jackets buttoned to the chin, and massive bear-fur hats. As the soldiers stood in rigid rows under the sun, one guard began to faint. Remarkably, he maintained his strict control and simply fell forward, his body remaining straight as a board as he planted his face in the sandy gravel. There he lay—somehow still at attention.
It took years of practice and discipline for this guard to learn such self-control, to hold his body in place even as he was falling unconscious. The apostle Paul describes such training: “I discipline my body and keep it under control,” he wrote (1 Corinthians 9:27 esv). Paul recognized that “everyone who competes . . . goes into strict training” (v. 25).
While God’s grace (not our efforts) undergirds all we do, our spiritual life deserves rigorous discipline. As God helps us discipline our mind, heart, and body, we learn to keep our attention fixed on Him, even amid trials or distractions.
By Winn Collier
REFLECT & PRAY
|
|
Where is it most difficult for you to discipline your heart, mind, or body? How do you sense God inviting you into deeper discipline?
Dear God, please teach me how to be more disciplined for You. I want to grow my love for You and keep my heart close to You.
For further study, read The Sword, The Son, and a Rest for God’s People.
|
|
|
|
|
|
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Paul’s original audience would have immediately resonated with his sports metaphors. Corinth hosted the Isthmian games on the years before and after the Olympic games. The athletes who competed were required by the rules to train for a minimum of ten months. Failing to do so would disqualify them entirely.
In his letter to the Corinthian believers in Jesus, the apostle exhorts them to live with the same kind of discipline that an athlete would have (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)—not to compete in the games but to live faithfully in the example of Christ (Hebrews 12:1-3). He’s not pitting them against each other like the games would, but he does call them to the same level of commitment in following Jesus. Instead of ten months, though, the life of the believer in Him calls us to a lifetime of growing discipline aimed at walking in His footsteps and ultimately sharing in His prize (2 Thessalonians 2:14).
Jed Ostoich |
|
|
|
|
|
UR: Teaching Children
Train children in the way they should go; when they grow old, they won’t depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6 (CEB)
Evelyn is my 10-year-old daughter. For a while now, when I sit to compose meditations to send to the editorial office of El Aposento Alto, she has sat down beside me. One morning, to my surprise, I found her writing a few paragraphs about our family. When I asked her about it, she said she was composing some meditations she plans to send to the magazine with the hope that children around the world would place God at the center of their family life and experience the goodness of God.
Today’s scripture from Proverbs immediately came to mind. God always surprises me. For a while I had wanted to teach my daughter the ways of God, but had, to my dismay, found it easier for me to quote that verse rather than put it into practice. But the good Teacher taught me a great lesson. Evelyn watches what I do and does the same. She writes a few lines, checks the scripture verses in her Bible, and sits with me while I write and edit my own meditations. I will continue to let scripture guide me as I seek to train my daughter in the ways of God, remembering that she is watching me.
Today's Prayer
Inspire us, God, to set a good example by sharing your teachings with our children so that they may gain wisdom and be nurtured in faith. Amen.
|
|
LISTEN ONLINE
