Day 257 of My 5th Bible Study Journey - 14 September 2025 reflections
Day 257, 14 September 2025
Today at Calvary Community Church
Pastor Doug Zeiber spoke on Empowered - Snakeproof
Acts 28:1-2
Paul in Malta
1 (Ac 27:26; 27:39) When they had escaped, they learned that the island
was called Malta.
2 (Ac 28:4; Ro 1:14) The natives showed extraordinary kindness, for they
kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because of the rain and the cold.
[1] And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita.
[2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because
of the cold.
Psalms 46:1
1 God is our refuge and strength, a well-proven help in trouble.
[1] God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
God never promises to keep us from the storms but He promises to provide a
refuge for us.
Acts 28:3-6
3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper
driven out by the heat fastened on his hand.
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand,
they said to one another, "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
6 They expected him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But while
they waited and saw no harm befall him, they changed their minds
and said that he was a god.
[3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
[6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to
him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
Acts 28:4b,5
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
[4] No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
Genesis 3:15
15 I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring
and her offspring; he will bruise your head, and you will bruise his heel."
(This is the foreshadowing of the Crucifixion of
Jesus The Lamb for Sinners Slain)
[15] And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed
and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Luke 10:19
19 (Mk 16:18; Ps 91:13) Look, I give you authority to trample on serpents
and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. And nothing shall
by any means hurt you.
[19] Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and
over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Revelation 12:11
11 (Lk 14:26; Jn 16:33) They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives
unto the death.
[11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of
their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
How to be Snakeproof
Wear Protective Clothing
Avoid Tall Grass
Don't Handle Snakes
Stay on the Path
Acts 28:7-10
7 In that area was an estate of the chief man of the island, named Publius,
who had welcomed us and courteously housed us for three days.
8 (Ac 9:40; Mt 9:18) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with
a fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and, placing his hands on him, prayed
and healed him.
9 When this happened, the rest on the island who had diseases also came
and were healed.
10 They honored us in many ways. And when we sailed, they provided us
with necessary supplies.
[7] In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously.
[8] And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on
him, and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed:
[10] Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they
laded us with such things as were necessary.
1) Daniel 10,11,12
Daniel 10
Daniel's Vision of a Man
1 (Da 1:7; 1:21) In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a message
was revealed to Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar,
and the message was true and one of great conflict.
And he understood the message and had understanding of the vision.
2 (Ezr 9:4-5; Ne 1:4) In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks.
3 (Da 6:18; Mt 6:17) I ate no tasty food, no meat or wine entered my mouth,
nor did I anoint myself at all until three whole weeks were fulfilled.
4 (Ge 2:14; Eze 1:3) On the 24th day of the first month, as I was by the side
of the great river which is Tigris,
5 (Jer 10:9; Eze 9:2) I lifted up my eyes and looked and saw a certain man
clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with the fine gold of Uphaz.
6 (Rev 19:12; Eze 1:14) His body also was like beryl, and his face had
the appearance of lightning, and his eyes were like lamps of fire,
and his arms and his feet were like the gleam of polished bronze,
and the sound of his words like the sound of a tumult.
7 (Ac 9:7; Eze 12:18 ) I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, while the men
who were with me did not see the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them,
so that they fled to hide themselves.
8 (Da 7:28; 8:27) Therefore I was left alone and saw this great vision,
and there remained no strength in me, and my countenance grew deathly pale,
and I retained no strength.
9 (Da 8:18; Ge 15:12) Yet I heard the sound of his words; and while I heard
the sound of his words, then I was in a deep sleep on my face with my face
toward the ground.
[1] In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto
Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the
time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding
of the vision.
[2] In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks.
[3] I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth,
neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.
[4] And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the
side of the great river, which is Hiddekel;
[5] Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed
in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz:
[6] His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of
lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in
colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a
multitude.
[7] And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not
the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide
themselves.
[8] Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there
remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into
corruption, and I retained no strength.
[9] Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his
words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.
Prophecies of Persia and Greece
10 (Jer 1:9; Da 8:18) But then a hand touched me, which set me on my knees
and on the palms of my hands.
11 (Eze 2:1; Da 8:16-17) He said to me, "O Daniel, a man greatly beloved,
understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for I have
been sent to you now." And when he had spoken this word to me,
I stood trembling.
12 (Ac 10:30-31; Da 9:20-23) Then he said to me, "Do not be afraid, Daniel.
For from the first day that you set your heart to understand this
and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard,
and I have come because of your words.
13 (Da 12:1; Jude 1:9; Rev 12:7) But the prince of the kingdom of Persia
withstood me for 21 days. So Michael, one of the chief princes,
came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia.
14 (Da 2:28; 8:26) Now I have come to make you understand what shall befall
your people in the latter days. For the vision is yet for many days."
15 (Eze 24:27; Lk 1:20) When he had spoken such words to me, I set my face
toward the ground, and I became mute.
16 (Isa 6:7; Da 8:15) Then one in the likeness of the sons of men
touched my lips. Then I opened my mouth and spoke and said to him
who stood before me, "O my lord, because of the vision, sorrows have
come upon me, and I have retained no strength.
17 (Ex 24:10-11; Isa 6:1-5) How can the servant of my lord talk
with you, my lord? And as for me, there remains no strength in me now,
nor is there any breath left in me."
18 (Da 10:16; Isa 35:3-4) Then again, the one having the appearance of a man
came and touched me, and he strengthened me.
19 (Jos 1:9; Jdg 6:23) He said, "O man, greatly beloved, do not fear.
Peace be unto you. Be strong and courageous!"
When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Let my lord speak,
for you have strengthened me."
20 (Da 8:21; 10:13) Then he said, "Do you understand why I have come to you?
But now I shall return to fight against the prince of Persia,
and when I have gone forth, then truly the prince of Greece will come.
21 (Da 10:13; 12:1; Jude 1:9) But I will show you what is inscribed
in the Scripture of Truth. Yet there is no one who stands firmly
with me against these forces, except Michael your prince.
[10] And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon
the palms of my hands.
[11] And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the
words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now
sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.
[12] Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that
thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy
God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
[13] But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty
days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I
remained there with the kings of Persia.
[14] Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in
the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.
[15] And when he had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the
ground, and I became dumb.
[16] And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my
lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before
me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have
retained no strength.
[17] For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as
for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there
breath left in me.
[18] Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man,
and he strengthened me,
[19] And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be
strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened,
and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.
[20] Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I
return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the
prince of Grecia shall come.
[21] But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and
there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.
Daniel 11
The Kings of the South and the North
1 (Da 5:31; 9:1) "Also, in the first year of Darius the Mede, I, even I,
stood to confirm and to strengthen him.
2 (Da 8:26; 10:1) "And now I will tell you the truth. Truly, there shall stand
up yet three kings in Persia, and the fourth shall be far richer than all
of them; and by his strength, through his riches, he shall stir up
all against the realm of Greece.
3 (Da 8:21; 11:16) A mighty king shall stand up who shall rule
with great dominion and do according to his will.
4 (Da 8:8; 8:22) When he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken
and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven, but not to his
posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled.
For his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others besides them.
5 (Da 11:11; 11:14) "The king of the South shall be strong, as well
as one of his officials who shall be strong above him and have dominion.
His dominion shall be a great dominion.
6 (Da 11:13; 11:7) In the end of some years they shall join themselves
together. For the king's daughter of the South shall come to the king
of the North to make an agreement. But she shall not retain her position
of power, and neither he nor his power shall stand. But she shall be given up
with those who brought her and with him who fathered her and with him who
strengthened her in those times.
7 "But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his place,
who shall come with an army and shall enter the fortress of the king
of the North and shall deal against them and shall prevail.
8 (Isa 37:19; 46:1-2) And he shall also carry captive into Egypt their gods,
with their officials, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold.
And he shall continue more years than the king of the North,
9 who will enter the kingdom of the king of the South, but shall return
to his own land.
10 (Jer 46:7-8; 51:42) His sons shall wage war and assemble a multitude
of armed forces. One shall advance like a flood and pass through, and again
shall wage the war as far as his fortress.
11 (Da 8:7; 11:5) "The king of the South shall be moved with rage,
and shall go out and fight with him, with the king of the North,
who shall raise a great multitude; but that multitude shall be given
into his enemy's hand.
12 When he has taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up;
and he shall cast down many ten thousands, but he shall not be strengthened
by it.
13 (Da 4:16; 12:7) For the king of the North shall return and shall raise
a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain
years with a great army and with much equipment.
14 "In those times many shall stand up against the king of the South.
Also the robbers of your people shall exalt themselves to fulfill the vision,
but they shall fall.
15 (Jer 6:6; Eze 4:2) Then the king of the North shall come
and set up a siege mound and capture a fortified city.
And the forces of the South shall not withstand him; neither shall his chosen
best troops have strength to resist.
16 (Da 8:9; 11:3) But he who comes against him shall do according to his own
will, and none shall stand before him. And he shall stand in the Pleasant
Land, which shall be consumed by his hand.
17 (2Ki 12:17; Eze 4:3) He shall also set his face to enter with the strength
of his whole kingdom, bringing with him a proposal of peace which he shall
put into effect. And he shall give him the daughter of women to corrupt it.
But she shall not stand on his side or be for him.
18 (Hos 12:14; Jer 2:10) After this he shall turn his face to the coastlands
and shall capture many. But a commander shall put a stop to his reproach
against him, and he shall repay him for his reproach.
19 (Ps 37:36; Eze 26:21) Then he shall turn his face toward the fortresses
of his own land, but shall stumble and fall and not be found any more.
20 (Isa 60:17) "Then one shall stand up in his place who shall send
an oppressor in the glory of his kingdom. But within a few days he shall
be destroyed, but not in anger or in battle.
21 (Da 8:25; 11:34) "In his place a vile person shall stand up,
to whom they shall not give the honor of the kingdom. But he shall come
in peaceably and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.
22 (Da 11:10; 8:10-11) A flood of armies shall be swept away before him
and be broken, and the prince of the covenant as well.
23 (Da 8:25) After the league is made with him, he shall work deceitfully,
and he shall come up and shall become strong with a small force of people.
24 He shall enter peaceably even upon the richest places of the realm.
And he shall do that which his fathers have not done,
nor his fathers' fathers. He shall distribute among them the plunder
and spoil and riches. And he shall plan his devices against the strongholds,
but only for a time.
25 "He shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South
with a great army. And the king of the South shall be stirred up to battle
with a very great and mighty army. But he shall not stand, for schemes
shall be devised against him.
26 (Da 11:10) Indeed, those who eat his choice food shall destroy him,
and his army shall overflow, and many shall fall down slain.
27 (Ps 12:2; 64:6) As for both of these kings, their hearts shall plan
on mischief, and they shall speak lies to one another at one table.
But it shall not prosper, for the end shall yet be at the appointed time.
28 While turning back to his land with great wealth, his heart shall be
against the holy covenant. He shall wage war and turn back to his own land.
[1] Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm
and to strengthen him.
[2] And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet
three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and
by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of
Grecia.
[3] And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion,
and do according to his will.
[4] And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be
divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor
according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked
up, even for others beside those.
[5] And the king of the south shall be strong, and one of his princes; and
he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion shall be a
great dominion.
[6] And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the
king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an
agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he
stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her,
and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.
[7] But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which
shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of
the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:
[8] And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes,
and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue
more years than the king of the north.
[9] So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return
into his own land.
[10] But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of
great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through:
then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress.
[11] And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come
forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set
forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand.
[12] And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted
up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be
strengthened by it.
[13] For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude
greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a
great army and with much riches.
[14] And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the
south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish
the vision; but they shall fall.
[15] So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the
most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither
his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.
[16] But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and
none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which
by his hand shall be consumed.
[17] He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole
kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him
the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side,
neither be for him.
[18] After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many:
but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to
cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him.
[19] Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he
shall stumble and fall, and not be found.
[20] Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the
kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in
battle.
[21] And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not
give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain
the kingdom by flatteries.
[22] And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him,
and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.
[23] And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he
shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.
[24] He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province;
and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers'
fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea,
and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.
[25] And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the
south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to
battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they
shall forecast devices against him.
[26] Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and
his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain.
[27] And both these kings' hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall
speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be
at the time appointed.
[28] Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart
shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits, and return to
his own land.
Blasphemies of the Northern King
29 "At the appointed time he shall return and come into the south,
but this latter time shall not be as the former.
30 (Ge 10:4; Nu 24:24) For the ships of Kittim shall come against him.
Therefore he shall be grieved and return and have indignation against
the holy covenant and take action. He shall even return and show regard
to those who forsake the holy covenant.
31 (Da 12:11; 9:27; Mt 24:15) "His armies shall rise up and desecrate
the sanctuary fortress. They shall abolish the daily sacrifice
and set up the abomination that makes desolate.
32 (Mic 5:7-9; Zec 9:13-16) By flatteries he will corrupt those who act
wickedly toward the covenant. But the people who know their God will
be strong and take action.
33 (Mal 2:7; Mt 24:9) "The wise among the people shall instruct many.
Yet for many days they shall fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity
and by destruction.
34 (Mt 7:15; Ro 16:18) Now when they fall, they shall be given a little help.
But many shall cleave to them with flatteries.
35 (Zec 13:9; Dt 8:16) Some of the wise will fall, so that they may be purged,
purified, and made white,until the time of the end,
for it is still for the appointed time.
36 (Dt 10:17; 2Th 2:4) "The king shall do according to his will. And he shall
exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak
blasphemous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper
until the indignation is accomplished. For that which is determined
shall be done.
37 He shall regard neither the gods of his fathers, nor the desire of women,
nor regard any god; for he shall magnify himself above them all.
38 But instead he shall honor the god of forces, a god whom his fathers
did not know. He shall honor him with gold and silver,
and with precious stones, and pleasant things.
39 Thus he shall do in the strongest of fortresses with a foreign god.
He shall give great honor to those who acknowledge him,
and shall cause them to rule over the many and shall divide the land for gain.
[29] At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but
it shall not be as the former, or as the latter.
[30] For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be
grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so
shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that
forsake the holy covenant.
[31] And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary
of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place
the abomination that maketh desolate.
[32] And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by
flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do
exploits.
[33] And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they
shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days.
[34] Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but
many shall cleave to them with flatteries.
[35] And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to
purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is
yet for a time appointed.
[36] And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt
himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous
things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be
accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.
[37] Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of
women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all.
[38] But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his
fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious
stones, and pleasant things.
[39] Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he
shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule
over many, and shall divide the land for gain.
Conquests of the Northern King
40 (Isa 5:28; Da 11:10) "At the time of the end the king of the South shall
push at him. But the king of the North shall come against him like
a whirlwind, with chariots and with horsemen and with many ships.
And he shall enter the countries and shall overflow them and pass over.
41 (Jer 48:47; 49:6) He shall enter also the Pleasant Land,
and many countries shall be overthrown. But these shall escape
out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the sons of Ammon.
42 Then he shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land
of Egypt shall not escape.
43 (2Ch 12:3; Na 3:9) But he shall have power over the hidden treasures
of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt.
And the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps.
44 But reports from the east and from the north shall trouble him.
Therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many.
45 He shall pitch the tabernacles of his palace between the seas
in the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he shall come to his end,
and no one shall help him.
[40] And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him:
and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with
chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into
the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.
[41] He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be
overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab,
and the chief of the children of Ammon.
[42] He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land
of Egypt shall not escape.
[43] But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and
over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians
shall be at his steps.
[44] But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him:
therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make
away many.
[45] And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in
the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall
help him.
Daniel 12
The Prophecy of the End Times
1 (Jer 30:7; Da 10:13; Mt 24:21) "And at that time Michael
shall stand up, the great prince who stands guard over the sons
of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble such
as never was since there was a nation even to that time.
And at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who shall be
found written in the book.
2 (Isa 26:19; Mt 25:46) Many of those who sleep in the dust
of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame
and everlasting contempt.
3 (Da 11:33; Mt 13:43; Da 11:35) Those who are wise shall shine
as the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who turn the many
to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.
4 (Da 12:9; Rev 22:10; Da 8:17) But you, Daniel, shut up the words
and seal the book until the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro,
and knowledge shall increase."
5 Then I, Daniel, looked, and there before me stood two others,
the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side
of the bank of the river.
6 (Eze 9:2; Da 8:13) One said to the man clothed in linen, who was
above the water of the river,
"How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?"
7 (Da 7:25; 8:24; Rev 12:14) And I heard the man clothed in linen,
who was over the water of the river, when he held up his right hand
and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever
that it would be for a time, times, and half a time.
[Or a year, two years, and half a year.]
And when they finish shattering the power of the holy people,
all these things shall be finished.
8 As for me, I heard, but I could not understand. So I said,
"My lord, what shall be the result of these things?"
9 (Da 12:4) And he said, "Go your way, Daniel. For these words are closed up
and sealed until the time of the end.
10 (Da 11:35; Rev 22:11; Hos 14:9) Many shall be purified and made white
and tried. But the wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall
understand, but the wise shall understand.
11 (Da 11:31; 9:27; Mt 24:15) "From the time that the daily sacrifice
shall be taken away and the abomination that makes desolate set up,
there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days.
12 Blessed is he who waits and comes to the 1335 days.
13 (Rev 14:13) "But as for you, go your way until the end.
Then you shall rest and rise again for your lot at the end of the age."
Daniel 12
[1] And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth
for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such
as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that
time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in
the book.
[2] And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some
to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
[3] And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament;
and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
[4] But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the
time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be
increased.
[5] Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on
this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank
of the river.
[6] And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of
the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?
[7] And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the
river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and
sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an
half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy
people, all these things shall be finished.
[8] And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be
the end of these things?
[9] And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed
till the time of the end.
[10] Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall
do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall
understand.
[11] And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the
abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two
hundred and ninety days.
[12] Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred
and five and thirty days.
[13] But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in
thy lot at the end of the days.
2) Our Daily Bread for 14 September 2025 titled
God's Tender Care by Lisa M. Samra
Isaiah 40:10-11, 29-31
10 (Isa 62:11; Rev 22:12) See, the Lord God will come with a strong hand,
and His arm shall rule for Him;
see, His reward is with Him,
and His recompense before Him.
11 (Eze 34:23; Mic 5:4) He shall feed His flock like a shepherd;
He shall gather the lambs with His arm,
and carry them in His bosom,
29 (Isa 41:10) He gives power to the faint,
and to those who have no might He increases strength.
30 (Isa 9:17) Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
and the young men shall utterly fall,
31 (2Co 4:16; Ps 103:5; Ex 19:4) but those who wait upon the Lord
shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint.
[10] Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule
for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.
[11] He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with
his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are
with young.
[29] He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he
increaseth strength.
[30] Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall
utterly fall:
[31] But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall
mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they
shall walk, and not faint.
Sitting in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit, I visited with a
mother as her newborn baby cuddled up against her chest. In this
technologically advanced medical facility, the doctors had recommended a very
low-tech "prescription" to improve and strengthen the child's health - the new
mom was to spend extended periods of time simply holding her daughter.
There's almost nothing like the overwhelming love and tender compassion of a
parent providing healing comfort for a child. We see this powerful imagery
in the prophet Isaiah's description of God with His people.
Even after prophesying impending exile for the nation of Israel because they'd
rejected God (Isaiah 39:5-7), Isaiah emphasised to the people that God still
loved them and would always provide for them. God's tender compassion
and secure care is evident in the beautiful metaphor where He is described
as a shepherd who, much like a loving father, gathers His sheep
"in his arms and carries them close to his heart" (40:11).
God's presence grants us peace and protection and reminds us that He carries
us close to His heart, like a newborn baby with its mother. As He "gives
strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak" (v. 29),
the Spirit's healing comfort allows us to meet the challenges of each day.
Reflect & Pray
What comes to mind when you think about the love of a mother for her newborn
baby? How has God's protective and loving care strengthened you?
Heavenly Father, I'm so grateful that You hold me close to Your heart.
Learn more about God's care by reading He Knows What I Need.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 1 - God's Perspective
Philippians 4:13
13 (2Co 12:9-10; Eph 3:16) I can do all things because
of Christ who strengthens me.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Many of us live out self-fulfilling prophecies. We believe
what we tell ourselves - or what we have been told by others:
"You're stupid", "You're ugly", "You'll never amount to anything,"
"You can't do anything right."
We programme ourselves for spiritual failure as well.
"I just can't memorise Scripture," we say. "It comes and goes,
and I can't seem to get it to stay." Yet daily we memorise
volumes of information that is less significant than the
Scriptures - telephone numbers, identification codes,
songs lyrics, advertising jingles.
The answer to the dilemma of negativism is not positive
thinking, but right thinking - biblical thinking, according
to what the Bible reveals of God's perspective. God says,
"You are worthwhile. You are valued. You are loved. I created you
just as you are, and whatever I call you to do,
I will give you the strength to do it.
The context of Phillipians 4:13 shows that Paul had learned
this important secret of spiritual strength. Paul had known
poverty and plenty, trouble and victory. But he also knew
he did not have to let circumstances determine his response to God's will.
We need not be controlled by the negative messages life throws in our paths
- even those self-defeating pronouncements we make to ourselves.
Rather, we can respond according to God's perspective, with the
conviction that God has given us strength we need to meet the
challenges we face.
Application
a) What challenges do I face that make me realise my own insufficiencies?
IS memorising Scripture one of those challenges for me?
b) How does today's memory verse help me face those challenges?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Exodus 3:7-8
7 (Ps 106:44; Ex 2:23-25)The Lord said,
"I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt
and have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters,
for I know their sorrows.
8 (Ge 50:24; 15:18-21; Ex 13:5) Therefore, I have come down
to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians,
and to bring them up out of that land to a good and spacious land,
to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of
the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites,
the Hivites, and the Jebusites."
7 And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people
which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters;
for I know their sorrows;
8 and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and
a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the
Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites,
and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are lonely
PSALMS 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)
Nova Scotia
Total population 942700
Muslim population (est.) 14629
With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is
a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,
a harvest field in itself.
Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations
- in and around Halifax and other cities
- on university campuses
- for new workers among Muslims
- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach
to Muslims in their areas.
- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend
to share Jesus with and disciple them
- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their
new faith in Jesus with other Muslims
Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia
with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas
(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques
in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.
Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of
newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration
has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic
is the second most spoken language in Halifax.
while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000
in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population
somewhere between 25000 to 30000.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
14th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
)
b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord to cured from the poisons of this world.
Pray to the Lord and pray that the Lord will move your leaders to rebuild
and reform in His Name.
Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, I'm so
grateful that You hold me close to Your heart."
Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord who will strengthen you.
Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord to hear the cry of the oppressed.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Lord Jesus Christ
as the Shepherd of Psalms 23.
Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations
- in and around Halifax and other cities
- on university campuses
- for new workers among Muslims
- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach
to Muslims in their areas.
- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend
to share Jesus with and disciple them
- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their
new faith in Jesus with other Muslims
Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation
Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Pray for Christian workers in Cameroon who are meeting the needs of those
displaced due to Boko Harem attacks.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
Today at Calvary Community Church
Pastor Doug Zeiber spoke on Empowered - Snakeproof
Acts 28:1-2
Paul in Malta
1 (Ac 27:26; 27:39) When they had escaped, they learned that the island
was called Malta.
2 (Ac 28:4; Ro 1:14) The natives showed extraordinary kindness, for they
kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because of the rain and the cold.
[1] And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called
Melita.
[2] And the barbarous people shewed us no little kindness: for they kindled
a fire, and received us every one, because of the present rain, and because
of the cold.
Psalms 46:1
1 God is our refuge and strength, a well-proven help in trouble.
[1] God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
God never promises to keep us from the storms but He promises to provide a
refuge for us.
Acts 28:3-6
3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper
driven out by the heat fastened on his hand.
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand,
they said to one another, "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
6 They expected him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But while
they waited and saw no harm befall him, they changed their minds
and said that he was a god.
[3] And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid them on the
fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.
[4] And when the barbarians saw the venomous beast hang on his hand, they
said among themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
[6] Howbeit they looked when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead
suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to
him, they changed their minds, and said that he was a god.
Acts 28:4b,5
4 (Lk 13:2; 13:4) "Surely this man is a murderer. Though he has
escaped from the sea, justice does not allow him to live."
5 (Mk 16:18; Lk 10:19) But he shook off the creature into the fire
and suffered no harm.
[4] No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath
escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live.
[5] And he shook off the beast into the fire, and felt no harm.
Genesis 3:15
15 I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring
and her offspring; he will bruise your head, and you will bruise his heel."
(This is the foreshadowing of the Crucifixion of
Jesus The Lamb for Sinners Slain)
[15] And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed
and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.
Luke 10:19
19 (Mk 16:18; Ps 91:13) Look, I give you authority to trample on serpents
and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. And nothing shall
by any means hurt you.
[19] Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and
over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
Revelation 12:11
11 (Lk 14:26; Jn 16:33) They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives
unto the death.
[11] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of
their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.
How to be Snakeproof
Wear Protective Clothing
Avoid Tall Grass
Don't Handle Snakes
Stay on the Path
Acts 28:7-10
7 In that area was an estate of the chief man of the island, named Publius,
who had welcomed us and courteously housed us for three days.
8 (Ac 9:40; Mt 9:18) It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with
a fever and dysentery. Paul visited him and, placing his hands on him, prayed
and healed him.
9 When this happened, the rest on the island who had diseases also came
and were healed.
10 They honored us in many ways. And when we sailed, they provided us
with necessary supplies.
[7] In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island,
whose name was Publius; who received us, and lodged us three days
courteously.
[8] And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and
of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on
him, and healed him.
[9] So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island,
came, and were healed:
[10] Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they
laded us with such things as were necessary.
1) Daniel 10,11,12
Daniel 10
Daniel's Vision of a Man
1 (Da 1:7; 1:21) In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a message
was revealed to Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar,
and the message was true and one of great conflict.
And he understood the message and had understanding of the vision.
2 (Ezr 9:4-5; Ne 1:4) In those days I, Daniel, was mourning three full weeks.
3 (Da 6:18; Mt 6:17) I ate no tasty food, no meat or wine entered my mouth,
nor did I anoint myself at all until three whole weeks were fulfilled.
4 (Ge 2:14; Eze 1:3) On the 24th day of the first month, as I was by the side
of the great river which is Tigris,
5 (Jer 10:9; Eze 9:2) I lifted up my eyes and looked and saw a certain man
clothed in linen, whose loins were girded with the fine gold of Uphaz.
6 (Rev 19:12; Eze 1:14) His body also was like beryl, and his face had
the appearance of lightning, and his eyes were like lamps of fire,
and his arms and his feet were like the gleam of polished bronze,
and the sound of his words like the sound of a tumult.
7 (Ac 9:7; Eze 12:18 ) I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, while the men
who were with me did not see the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them,
so that they fled to hide themselves.
8 (Da 7:28; 8:27) Therefore I was left alone and saw this great vision,
and there remained no strength in me, and my countenance grew deathly pale,
and I retained no strength.
9 (Da 8:18; Ge 15:12) Yet I heard the sound of his words; and while I heard
the sound of his words, then I was in a deep sleep on my face with my face
toward the ground.
[1] In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto
Daniel, whose name was called Belteshazzar; and the thing was true, but the
time appointed was long: and he understood the thing, and had understanding
of the vision.
[2] In those days I Daniel was mourning three full weeks.
[3] I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine in my mouth,
neither did I anoint myself at all, till three whole weeks were fulfilled.
[4] And in the four and twentieth day of the first month, as I was by the
side of the great river, which is Hiddekel;
[5] Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man clothed
in linen, whose loins were girded with fine gold of Uphaz:
[6] His body also was like the beryl, and his face as the appearance of
lightning, and his eyes as lamps of fire, and his arms and his feet like in
colour to polished brass, and the voice of his words like the voice of a
multitude.
[7] And I Daniel alone saw the vision: for the men that were with me saw not
the vision; but a great quaking fell upon them, so that they fled to hide
themselves.
[8] Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there
remained no strength in me: for my comeliness was turned in me into
corruption, and I retained no strength.
[9] Yet heard I the voice of his words: and when I heard the voice of his
words, then was I in a deep sleep on my face, and my face toward the ground.
Prophecies of Persia and Greece
10 (Jer 1:9; Da 8:18) But then a hand touched me, which set me on my knees
and on the palms of my hands.
11 (Eze 2:1; Da 8:16-17) He said to me, "O Daniel, a man greatly beloved,
understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for I have
been sent to you now." And when he had spoken this word to me,
I stood trembling.
12 (Ac 10:30-31; Da 9:20-23) Then he said to me, "Do not be afraid, Daniel.
For from the first day that you set your heart to understand this
and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard,
and I have come because of your words.
13 (Da 12:1; Jude 1:9; Rev 12:7) But the prince of the kingdom of Persia
withstood me for 21 days. So Michael, one of the chief princes,
came to help me, for I had been left there with the kings of Persia.
14 (Da 2:28; 8:26) Now I have come to make you understand what shall befall
your people in the latter days. For the vision is yet for many days."
15 (Eze 24:27; Lk 1:20) When he had spoken such words to me, I set my face
toward the ground, and I became mute.
16 (Isa 6:7; Da 8:15) Then one in the likeness of the sons of men
touched my lips. Then I opened my mouth and spoke and said to him
who stood before me, "O my lord, because of the vision, sorrows have
come upon me, and I have retained no strength.
17 (Ex 24:10-11; Isa 6:1-5) How can the servant of my lord talk
with you, my lord? And as for me, there remains no strength in me now,
nor is there any breath left in me."
18 (Da 10:16; Isa 35:3-4) Then again, the one having the appearance of a man
came and touched me, and he strengthened me.
19 (Jos 1:9; Jdg 6:23) He said, "O man, greatly beloved, do not fear.
Peace be unto you. Be strong and courageous!"
When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Let my lord speak,
for you have strengthened me."
20 (Da 8:21; 10:13) Then he said, "Do you understand why I have come to you?
But now I shall return to fight against the prince of Persia,
and when I have gone forth, then truly the prince of Greece will come.
21 (Da 10:13; 12:1; Jude 1:9) But I will show you what is inscribed
in the Scripture of Truth. Yet there is no one who stands firmly
with me against these forces, except Michael your prince.
[10] And, behold, an hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and upon
the palms of my hands.
[11] And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the
words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now
sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling.
[12] Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that
thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy
God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
[13] But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty
days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I
remained there with the kings of Persia.
[14] Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in
the latter days: for yet the vision is for many days.
[15] And when he had spoken such words unto me, I set my face toward the
ground, and I became dumb.
[16] And, behold, one like the similitude of the sons of men touched my
lips: then I opened my mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before
me, O my lord, by the vision my sorrows are turned upon me, and I have
retained no strength.
[17] For how can the servant of this my lord talk with this my lord? for as
for me, straightway there remained no strength in me, neither is there
breath left in me.
[18] Then there came again and touched me one like the appearance of a man,
and he strengthened me,
[19] And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace be unto thee, be
strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened,
and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.
[20] Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I
return to fight with the prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the
prince of Grecia shall come.
[21] But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and
there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.
Daniel 11
The Kings of the South and the North
1 (Da 5:31; 9:1) "Also, in the first year of Darius the Mede, I, even I,
stood to confirm and to strengthen him.
2 (Da 8:26; 10:1) "And now I will tell you the truth. Truly, there shall stand
up yet three kings in Persia, and the fourth shall be far richer than all
of them; and by his strength, through his riches, he shall stir up
all against the realm of Greece.
3 (Da 8:21; 11:16) A mighty king shall stand up who shall rule
with great dominion and do according to his will.
4 (Da 8:8; 8:22) When he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken
and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven, but not to his
posterity, nor according to his dominion which he ruled.
For his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others besides them.
5 (Da 11:11; 11:14) "The king of the South shall be strong, as well
as one of his officials who shall be strong above him and have dominion.
His dominion shall be a great dominion.
6 (Da 11:13; 11:7) In the end of some years they shall join themselves
together. For the king's daughter of the South shall come to the king
of the North to make an agreement. But she shall not retain her position
of power, and neither he nor his power shall stand. But she shall be given up
with those who brought her and with him who fathered her and with him who
strengthened her in those times.
7 "But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his place,
who shall come with an army and shall enter the fortress of the king
of the North and shall deal against them and shall prevail.
8 (Isa 37:19; 46:1-2) And he shall also carry captive into Egypt their gods,
with their officials, and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold.
And he shall continue more years than the king of the North,
9 who will enter the kingdom of the king of the South, but shall return
to his own land.
10 (Jer 46:7-8; 51:42) His sons shall wage war and assemble a multitude
of armed forces. One shall advance like a flood and pass through, and again
shall wage the war as far as his fortress.
11 (Da 8:7; 11:5) "The king of the South shall be moved with rage,
and shall go out and fight with him, with the king of the North,
who shall raise a great multitude; but that multitude shall be given
into his enemy's hand.
12 When he has taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted up;
and he shall cast down many ten thousands, but he shall not be strengthened
by it.
13 (Da 4:16; 12:7) For the king of the North shall return and shall raise
a multitude greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain
years with a great army and with much equipment.
14 "In those times many shall stand up against the king of the South.
Also the robbers of your people shall exalt themselves to fulfill the vision,
but they shall fall.
15 (Jer 6:6; Eze 4:2) Then the king of the North shall come
and set up a siege mound and capture a fortified city.
And the forces of the South shall not withstand him; neither shall his chosen
best troops have strength to resist.
16 (Da 8:9; 11:3) But he who comes against him shall do according to his own
will, and none shall stand before him. And he shall stand in the Pleasant
Land, which shall be consumed by his hand.
17 (2Ki 12:17; Eze 4:3) He shall also set his face to enter with the strength
of his whole kingdom, bringing with him a proposal of peace which he shall
put into effect. And he shall give him the daughter of women to corrupt it.
But she shall not stand on his side or be for him.
18 (Hos 12:14; Jer 2:10) After this he shall turn his face to the coastlands
and shall capture many. But a commander shall put a stop to his reproach
against him, and he shall repay him for his reproach.
19 (Ps 37:36; Eze 26:21) Then he shall turn his face toward the fortresses
of his own land, but shall stumble and fall and not be found any more.
20 (Isa 60:17) "Then one shall stand up in his place who shall send
an oppressor in the glory of his kingdom. But within a few days he shall
be destroyed, but not in anger or in battle.
21 (Da 8:25; 11:34) "In his place a vile person shall stand up,
to whom they shall not give the honor of the kingdom. But he shall come
in peaceably and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.
22 (Da 11:10; 8:10-11) A flood of armies shall be swept away before him
and be broken, and the prince of the covenant as well.
23 (Da 8:25) After the league is made with him, he shall work deceitfully,
and he shall come up and shall become strong with a small force of people.
24 He shall enter peaceably even upon the richest places of the realm.
And he shall do that which his fathers have not done,
nor his fathers' fathers. He shall distribute among them the plunder
and spoil and riches. And he shall plan his devices against the strongholds,
but only for a time.
25 "He shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the South
with a great army. And the king of the South shall be stirred up to battle
with a very great and mighty army. But he shall not stand, for schemes
shall be devised against him.
26 (Da 11:10) Indeed, those who eat his choice food shall destroy him,
and his army shall overflow, and many shall fall down slain.
27 (Ps 12:2; 64:6) As for both of these kings, their hearts shall plan
on mischief, and they shall speak lies to one another at one table.
But it shall not prosper, for the end shall yet be at the appointed time.
28 While turning back to his land with great wealth, his heart shall be
against the holy covenant. He shall wage war and turn back to his own land.
[1] Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm
and to strengthen him.
[2] And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet
three kings in Persia; and the fourth shall be far richer than they all: and
by his strength through his riches he shall stir up all against the realm of
Grecia.
[3] And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion,
and do according to his will.
[4] And when he shall stand up, his kingdom shall be broken, and shall be
divided toward the four winds of heaven; and not to his posterity, nor
according to his dominion which he ruled: for his kingdom shall be plucked
up, even for others beside those.
[5] And the king of the south shall be strong, and one of his princes; and
he shall be strong above him, and have dominion; his dominion shall be a
great dominion.
[6] And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the
king's daughter of the south shall come to the king of the north to make an
agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the arm; neither shall he
stand, nor his arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought her,
and he that begat her, and he that strengthened her in these times.
[7] But out of a branch of her roots shall one stand up in his estate, which
shall come with an army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of
the north, and shall deal against them, and shall prevail:
[8] And shall also carry captives into Egypt their gods, with their princes,
and with their precious vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue
more years than the king of the north.
[9] So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return
into his own land.
[10] But his sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of
great forces: and one shall certainly come, and overflow, and pass through:
then shall he return, and be stirred up, even to his fortress.
[11] And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come
forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set
forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand.
[12] And when he hath taken away the multitude, his heart shall be lifted
up; and he shall cast down many ten thousands: but he shall not be
strengthened by it.
[13] For the king of the north shall return, and shall set forth a multitude
greater than the former, and shall certainly come after certain years with a
great army and with much riches.
[14] And in those times there shall many stand up against the king of the
south: also the robbers of thy people shall exalt themselves to establish
the vision; but they shall fall.
[15] So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the
most fenced cities: and the arms of the south shall not withstand, neither
his chosen people, neither shall there be any strength to withstand.
[16] But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and
none shall stand before him: and he shall stand in the glorious land, which
by his hand shall be consumed.
[17] He shall also set his face to enter with the strength of his whole
kingdom, and upright ones with him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him
the daughter of women, corrupting her: but she shall not stand on his side,
neither be for him.
[18] After this shall he turn his face unto the isles, and shall take many:
but a prince for his own behalf shall cause the reproach offered by him to
cease; without his own reproach he shall cause it to turn upon him.
[19] Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he
shall stumble and fall, and not be found.
[20] Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the
kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in
battle.
[21] And in his estate shall stand up a vile person, to whom they shall not
give the honour of the kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain
the kingdom by flatteries.
[22] And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him,
and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant.
[23] And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he
shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people.
[24] He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province;
and he shall do that which his fathers have not done, nor his fathers'
fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil, and riches: yea,
and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a time.
[25] And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the
south with a great army; and the king of the south shall be stirred up to
battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not stand: for they
shall forecast devices against him.
[26] Yea, they that feed of the portion of his meat shall destroy him, and
his army shall overflow: and many shall fall down slain.
[27] And both these kings' hearts shall be to do mischief, and they shall
speak lies at one table; but it shall not prosper: for yet the end shall be
at the time appointed.
[28] Then shall he return into his land with great riches; and his heart
shall be against the holy covenant; and he shall do exploits, and return to
his own land.
Blasphemies of the Northern King
29 "At the appointed time he shall return and come into the south,
but this latter time shall not be as the former.
30 (Ge 10:4; Nu 24:24) For the ships of Kittim shall come against him.
Therefore he shall be grieved and return and have indignation against
the holy covenant and take action. He shall even return and show regard
to those who forsake the holy covenant.
31 (Da 12:11; 9:27; Mt 24:15) "His armies shall rise up and desecrate
the sanctuary fortress. They shall abolish the daily sacrifice
and set up the abomination that makes desolate.
32 (Mic 5:7-9; Zec 9:13-16) By flatteries he will corrupt those who act
wickedly toward the covenant. But the people who know their God will
be strong and take action.
33 (Mal 2:7; Mt 24:9) "The wise among the people shall instruct many.
Yet for many days they shall fall by the sword and by flame, by captivity
and by destruction.
34 (Mt 7:15; Ro 16:18) Now when they fall, they shall be given a little help.
But many shall cleave to them with flatteries.
35 (Zec 13:9; Dt 8:16) Some of the wise will fall, so that they may be purged,
purified, and made white,until the time of the end,
for it is still for the appointed time.
36 (Dt 10:17; 2Th 2:4) "The king shall do according to his will. And he shall
exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak
blasphemous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper
until the indignation is accomplished. For that which is determined
shall be done.
37 He shall regard neither the gods of his fathers, nor the desire of women,
nor regard any god; for he shall magnify himself above them all.
38 But instead he shall honor the god of forces, a god whom his fathers
did not know. He shall honor him with gold and silver,
and with precious stones, and pleasant things.
39 Thus he shall do in the strongest of fortresses with a foreign god.
He shall give great honor to those who acknowledge him,
and shall cause them to rule over the many and shall divide the land for gain.
[29] At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but
it shall not be as the former, or as the latter.
[30] For the ships of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be
grieved, and return, and have indignation against the holy covenant: so
shall he do; he shall even return, and have intelligence with them that
forsake the holy covenant.
[31] And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary
of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place
the abomination that maketh desolate.
[32] And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by
flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do
exploits.
[33] And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they
shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days.
[34] Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but
many shall cleave to them with flatteries.
[35] And some of them of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to
purge, and to make them white, even to the time of the end: because it is
yet for a time appointed.
[36] And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt
himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous
things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be
accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.
[37] Neither shall he regard the God of his fathers, nor the desire of
women, nor regard any god: for he shall magnify himself above all.
[38] But in his estate shall he honour the God of forces: and a god whom his
fathers knew not shall he honour with gold, and silver, and with precious
stones, and pleasant things.
[39] Thus shall he do in the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he
shall acknowledge and increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule
over many, and shall divide the land for gain.
Conquests of the Northern King
40 (Isa 5:28; Da 11:10) "At the time of the end the king of the South shall
push at him. But the king of the North shall come against him like
a whirlwind, with chariots and with horsemen and with many ships.
And he shall enter the countries and shall overflow them and pass over.
41 (Jer 48:47; 49:6) He shall enter also the Pleasant Land,
and many countries shall be overthrown. But these shall escape
out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the sons of Ammon.
42 Then he shall stretch out his hand against the countries, and the land
of Egypt shall not escape.
43 (2Ch 12:3; Na 3:9) But he shall have power over the hidden treasures
of gold and of silver, and over all the precious things of Egypt.
And the Libyans and the Ethiopians shall be at his steps.
44 But reports from the east and from the north shall trouble him.
Therefore he shall go out with great fury to destroy and annihilate many.
45 He shall pitch the tabernacles of his palace between the seas
in the beautiful holy mountain. Yet he shall come to his end,
and no one shall help him.
[40] And at the time of the end shall the king of the south push at him:
and the king of the north shall come against him like a whirlwind, with
chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and he shall enter into
the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.
[41] He shall enter also into the glorious land, and many countries shall be
overthrown: but these shall escape out of his hand, even Edom, and Moab,
and the chief of the children of Ammon.
[42] He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land
of Egypt shall not escape.
[43] But he shall have power over the treasures of gold and of silver, and
over all the precious things of Egypt: and the Libyans and the Ethiopians
shall be at his steps.
[44] But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall trouble him:
therefore he shall go forth with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make
away many.
[45] And he shall plant the tabernacles of his palace between the seas in
the glorious holy mountain; yet he shall come to his end, and none shall
help him.
Daniel 12
The Prophecy of the End Times
1 (Jer 30:7; Da 10:13; Mt 24:21) "And at that time Michael
shall stand up, the great prince who stands guard over the sons
of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble such
as never was since there was a nation even to that time.
And at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who shall be
found written in the book.
2 (Isa 26:19; Mt 25:46) Many of those who sleep in the dust
of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame
and everlasting contempt.
3 (Da 11:33; Mt 13:43; Da 11:35) Those who are wise shall shine
as the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who turn the many
to righteousness as the stars forever and ever.
4 (Da 12:9; Rev 22:10; Da 8:17) But you, Daniel, shut up the words
and seal the book until the time of the end. Many shall run to and fro,
and knowledge shall increase."
5 Then I, Daniel, looked, and there before me stood two others,
the one on this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side
of the bank of the river.
6 (Eze 9:2; Da 8:13) One said to the man clothed in linen, who was
above the water of the river,
"How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?"
7 (Da 7:25; 8:24; Rev 12:14) And I heard the man clothed in linen,
who was over the water of the river, when he held up his right hand
and his left hand to heaven, and swore by Him who lives forever
that it would be for a time, times, and half a time.
[Or a year, two years, and half a year.]
And when they finish shattering the power of the holy people,
all these things shall be finished.
8 As for me, I heard, but I could not understand. So I said,
"My lord, what shall be the result of these things?"
9 (Da 12:4) And he said, "Go your way, Daniel. For these words are closed up
and sealed until the time of the end.
10 (Da 11:35; Rev 22:11; Hos 14:9) Many shall be purified and made white
and tried. But the wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall
understand, but the wise shall understand.
11 (Da 11:31; 9:27; Mt 24:15) "From the time that the daily sacrifice
shall be taken away and the abomination that makes desolate set up,
there shall be one thousand two hundred and ninety days.
12 Blessed is he who waits and comes to the 1335 days.
13 (Rev 14:13) "But as for you, go your way until the end.
Then you shall rest and rise again for your lot at the end of the age."
Daniel 12
[1] And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth
for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such
as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that
time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in
the book.
[2] And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some
to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
[3] And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament;
and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
[4] But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the
time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be
increased.
[5] Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on
this side of the bank of the river, and the other on that side of the bank
of the river.
[6] And one said to the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of
the river, How long shall it be to the end of these wonders?
[7] And I heard the man clothed in linen, which was upon the waters of the
river, when he held up his right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and
sware by him that liveth for ever that it shall be for a time, times, and an
half; and when he shall have accomplished to scatter the power of the holy
people, all these things shall be finished.
[8] And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be
the end of these things?
[9] And he said, Go thy way, Daniel: for the words are closed up and sealed
till the time of the end.
[10] Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall
do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall
understand.
[11] And from the time that the daily sacrifice shall be taken away, and the
abomination that maketh desolate set up, there shall be a thousand two
hundred and ninety days.
[12] Blessed is he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred
and five and thirty days.
[13] But go thou thy way till the end be: for thou shalt rest, and stand in
thy lot at the end of the days.
2) Our Daily Bread for 14 September 2025 titled
God's Tender Care by Lisa M. Samra
Isaiah 40:10-11, 29-31
10 (Isa 62:11; Rev 22:12) See, the Lord God will come with a strong hand,
and His arm shall rule for Him;
see, His reward is with Him,
and His recompense before Him.
11 (Eze 34:23; Mic 5:4) He shall feed His flock like a shepherd;
He shall gather the lambs with His arm,
and carry them in His bosom,
29 (Isa 41:10) He gives power to the faint,
and to those who have no might He increases strength.
30 (Isa 9:17) Even the youths shall faint and be weary,
and the young men shall utterly fall,
31 (2Co 4:16; Ps 103:5; Ex 19:4) but those who wait upon the Lord
shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings as eagles,
they shall run and not be weary,
and they shall walk and not faint.
[10] Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule
for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.
[11] He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with
his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are
with young.
[29] He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he
increaseth strength.
[30] Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall
utterly fall:
[31] But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall
mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they
shall walk, and not faint.
Sitting in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit, I visited with a
mother as her newborn baby cuddled up against her chest. In this
technologically advanced medical facility, the doctors had recommended a very
low-tech "prescription" to improve and strengthen the child's health - the new
mom was to spend extended periods of time simply holding her daughter.
There's almost nothing like the overwhelming love and tender compassion of a
parent providing healing comfort for a child. We see this powerful imagery
in the prophet Isaiah's description of God with His people.
Even after prophesying impending exile for the nation of Israel because they'd
rejected God (Isaiah 39:5-7), Isaiah emphasised to the people that God still
loved them and would always provide for them. God's tender compassion
and secure care is evident in the beautiful metaphor where He is described
as a shepherd who, much like a loving father, gathers His sheep
"in his arms and carries them close to his heart" (40:11).
God's presence grants us peace and protection and reminds us that He carries
us close to His heart, like a newborn baby with its mother. As He "gives
strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak" (v. 29),
the Spirit's healing comfort allows us to meet the challenges of each day.
Reflect & Pray
What comes to mind when you think about the love of a mother for her newborn
baby? How has God's protective and loving care strengthened you?
Heavenly Father, I'm so grateful that You hold me close to Your heart.
Learn more about God's care by reading He Knows What I Need.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 1 Knowing God's Word Day 1 - God's Perspective
Philippians 4:13
13 (2Co 12:9-10; Eph 3:16) I can do all things because
of Christ who strengthens me.
13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Many of us live out self-fulfilling prophecies. We believe
what we tell ourselves - or what we have been told by others:
"You're stupid", "You're ugly", "You'll never amount to anything,"
"You can't do anything right."
We programme ourselves for spiritual failure as well.
"I just can't memorise Scripture," we say. "It comes and goes,
and I can't seem to get it to stay." Yet daily we memorise
volumes of information that is less significant than the
Scriptures - telephone numbers, identification codes,
songs lyrics, advertising jingles.
The answer to the dilemma of negativism is not positive
thinking, but right thinking - biblical thinking, according
to what the Bible reveals of God's perspective. God says,
"You are worthwhile. You are valued. You are loved. I created you
just as you are, and whatever I call you to do,
I will give you the strength to do it.
The context of Phillipians 4:13 shows that Paul had learned
this important secret of spiritual strength. Paul had known
poverty and plenty, trouble and victory. But he also knew
he did not have to let circumstances determine his response to God's will.
We need not be controlled by the negative messages life throws in our paths
- even those self-defeating pronouncements we make to ourselves.
Rather, we can respond according to God's perspective, with the
conviction that God has given us strength we need to meet the
challenges we face.
Application
a) What challenges do I face that make me realise my own insufficiencies?
IS memorising Scripture one of those challenges for me?
b) How does today's memory verse help me face those challenges?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Exodus 3:7-8
7 (Ps 106:44; Ex 2:23-25)The Lord said,
"I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt
and have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters,
for I know their sorrows.
8 (Ge 50:24; 15:18-21; Ex 13:5) Therefore, I have come down
to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians,
and to bring them up out of that land to a good and spacious land,
to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of
the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites,
the Hivites, and the Jebusites."
7 And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people
which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters;
for I know their sorrows;
8 and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and
a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the
Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites,
and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are lonely
PSALMS 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)
Nova Scotia
Total population 942700
Muslim population (est.) 14629
With 6 of the Nova Scotia's 10 universities located in Halifax, there is
a high concentration of Muslin international students in the area,
a harvest field in itself.
Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations
- in and around Halifax and other cities
- on university campuses
- for new workers among Muslims
- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach
to Muslims in their areas.
- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend
to share Jesus with and disciple them
- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their
new faith in Jesus with other Muslims
Halifax is the centre of Muslim activity for the Province of Nova Scotia
with at least 10 Islamic centres (mosques) and musallas
(prayer locations, especially for Friday prayer). And there are other mosques
in Chebucto, Kearney Lake, Dartmouth, Bedford and Truro.
Though the original community of Muslims was primarily composed of
newcomers from Turkey, Pakistan, Bangladesh and India, continued immigration
has further diversified this community. Anf it is said thay Arabic
is the second most spoken language in Halifax.
while conservative estimates place the number of Muslims at almost 15000
in 2014, the Imama of a primary Halifax mosque estimates their population
somewhere between 25000 to 30000.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
14th Day of the Month
a) Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation ( Matt 6:10
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
)
b) Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord to cured from the poisons of this world.
Pray to the Lord and pray that the Lord will move your leaders to rebuild
and reform in His Name.
Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, I'm so
grateful that You hold me close to Your heart."
Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord who will strengthen you.
Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord to hear the cry of the oppressed.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Lord Jesus Christ
as the Shepherd of Psalms 23.
Pray for Nova Scotia and her Muslim populations
- in and around Halifax and other cities
- on university campuses
- for new workers among Muslims
- for pastors and churches to be bold in vision, passion and outreach
to Muslims in their areas.
- for Muslims who are searching for a better way to find a Christian friend
to share Jesus with and disciple them
- for Muslim-background believers to be both wise and bold in sharing their
new faith in Jesus with other Muslims
Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray for God's kingdom to come
in your home, neighbourhood, city or community,
and in our nation
Pray for those who serve with
denominations and Christian organisations
in Canada - that God will bless their ministry
and anoint them for effective service.
Pray for Christian workers in Cameroon who are meeting the needs of those
displaced due to Boko Harem attacks.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
.