Dave Yadallee's personal blog

From On Eagle's wings



A Willing Heart

3 And everyone went to his own city to be taxed. Luke 2:3 (MEV)

[3] And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. Luke 2:3 (KJV)



Undertaking a journey requires advanced planning and preparation.

Imagine planning a journey involving walking 113 km (70 miles),

navigating hilly terrain while caring for a heavily pregnant woman.

Today it would be considered high risk to embark on such an

arduous journey in the third trimester of pregnancy. I imagine the

Roman census coinciding with Mary's due date was a major inconvenience.

The decision to journey to the Arctic community of Tuktoyaktuk

was not easy. I was deeply fatigued from a busy season in life and

still in the process of recovering from the flu. There was a part of

me that didn't want to be inconvenienced by the trip and another

part that really wanted to reconnect with the people in Tuk. I was

genuinely concerned about my health, but as I began to pray about

the opportunity I recognized a gentle nudging in my spirit to

surrender my fears.

I often wonder about the inner conflict Mary might have

experienced as she prepared to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem.

Perhaps she was concerned about her health and the health of

her newborn. Mary's act of compliance and surrender to the things

outside of her control continues to be a source of inspiration to me.

As I sat around a craft table sharing my faith with the children in

Tuk, I recognized the value of surrender, and the impact acceptance

can make.



Emma Abrol

On Eagle's Wings Curriculum Writer & Bible Camp Volunteer



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to understand the doctrine of the Lord Jesus Christ.



Pray to the Lord: "Loving Father, please help me be attuned

to opportunities to spread Your love through

kind words and actions. I want to be more like You!"



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Lord who redeems you.



Pray to the Lord and pray to honour his covenant.



Pray to the Lord and pray that integrity and uprightness preserve you.



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

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



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

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -

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

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

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



Pray for God's name to be glorified in your life, home, neighbourhood,

city or community, and in Canada.



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

and daughters. Amen.



Pray: Holy Designer, thank you for fulfilling your prophecy in John.



Pray: Lord, thanks for your absolute love for us always . . . and that's a long, long

time! Help us to enjoy doing nothing today, because your joy has come

to the world! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Father in heaven, this Advent let us discover again that we are

your children created in your own image and, because of our

baptism, that Christ is in us. Let us rediscover that there is

peace and joy in Jesus Christ. In his name, Amen.



Father, grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot

change, the courage to change the things we can and the wisdom

to know the difference. Amen.



Pray on behalf of new believers in Comoros who are often persecuted

by their opposing families for converting from Islam.



Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.

and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.



Remember eternity starts now -

Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.

7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



11th Day of the Month



a) Pray for God's name to be glorified in your life, home, neighbourhood,

city or community, and in Canada.



(



Ps 86:12



12 I will give You thanks, O Lord my God, with all my heart,

and I will glorify Your name forever.



12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart:

And I will glorify thy name for evermore.



John 12:28



28 "Father, glorify Your name."

Then a voice came from heaven, saying,

"I have glorified it, and will glorify it again."



28 Father, glorify thy name.

Then came there a voice from heaven, saying,

I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.



)



b) Pray for the province of New Brunswick



I) Pray for the leaders of New Brunswick, that God's Spirit would influence

then to act justly, serve with integrity and honour high moral standards.

( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4 1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications,

prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,

3(1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of

God our Savior, 4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)who desires all men to be saved

and to come to the knowledge of the truth.



II) Pray for the churches of the province,

that they would be lighthouses beaming forth

the illuminating truth of God's Word.



III) Pray that the Lord would use the Finding

the Hope Campaign and booklet to turn many hearts to Jesus



)



Advent Day 19



From C.S. Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck



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

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

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

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



- C. S. Lewis



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



Why Did He Do It?



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

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

him.



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

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

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

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

But we become more ourselves when we become like him.



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

and daughters. Amen.



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

to those who believed in His name, John 1:12,



and have embraced the new nature,

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



Col. 3:10



From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn



THURSDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT



His name is John.



He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."



-Luke 1:63a



All the friends and relatives wanted to name the child Zechariah

after his father. However, Elizabeth and Zechariah were adamant

that he was to be called John. The people were amazed-this was not

a family name, they cried. But it was the name the angel Gabriel

had given to Zechariah in the Temple, so it was God's

ordinance that he should be so designated.



If the people were astounded by the couple's unusual unanimity

about this unique name, they were even more surprised on this

circumcision day by the opening of Zechariah's mouth.

He spoke clearly-his tongue was free!­ and, most important,

he acclaimed God!



Zechariah had had more than nine months to contemplate things.

He was overwhelmed with Joy that he and Elizabeth had borne

a child in their old age, and he was awed that even before

birth John had been filled with the Holy Spirit. Thus, Zechariah

burst out with praise at God's working.



Prayer



Holy Designer, thank you for fulfilling your prophecy in John.



Amen.



Read Luke 1:59-64.



59 On the eighth day they came to circumcise the child.

And they were calling him Zechariah, after the name of his father.

60 But his mother answered, “Not so! He shall be called John.”

61 They said to her, "There is no one among your relatives

who is called by this name."

62 They made signs to his father, asking what he would have him called.

63 He asked for a writing tablet and wrote, "His name is John."

And they all were amazed.

64 Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue was loosed,

and he spoke and praised God.



From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler



THIRD THURSDAY

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



3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according

to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living hope

through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

4 to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that

does not fade away, kept in heaven for you, 1 PETER 1:3-4



Joy to the World is a hymn that should be sung all year long!

We boldly proclaim that there is joy in this world because the Lord HAS

come! Have you ever sung a stanza that goes. "Joy to the world, the Lord

might come," or "the Lord is thinking of coming." or "shape up and he will

come"? Me neither!

Absolutes is a big AH-HA of Advent. It affirms that Advent is not a time

to pretend that the Lord is coming, but that he has indeed come to

us already! And with this absolute truth of the Gospel we also receive

absolution of our sins--again because (he Lord has come to live, suffer,

die and rise for us! We are forgiven . . . absolutely!

Think of other absolutes in your life. l think of love for family although

mess that up at times; and of life being a gift from God,. although

sometimes do not live like it is; and, of course, it is an absolute that

the Chicago Cubs will never win another World Series

but that's another story!

1 Peter 1 affirms in us that the absolute of Advent is that the Lord has given us

"a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ"!



So enjoy the day, absolutely, in the Lord. Sit back. relax. enjoy--there is

nothing left for us to do. Soren Kierkegaard once said, "Laughter is a type

of prayer." Perhaps he meant that laughter, like prayer, allows us to give up

our need to control or manage. Just receive the Christ of Christmas!



Lord, thanks for your absolute love for us always . . . and that's a long, long

time! Help us to enjoy doing nothing today, because your joy has come

to the world! In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Read 1 Peter 1:3-9



3 (1Co 15:20; 2Co 1:3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

who according to His abundant mercy has given us a new birth into a living

hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

4 (Col 1:5; 2Ti 4:8) to an incorruptible and undefiled inheritance that

does not fade away, kept in heaven for you,

5 (Eph 2:8) who are protected by the power of God through faith for

a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

6 (Jas 1:2; Isa 61:3; Ro 5:2) In this you greatly rejoice, even though now,

if for a little while, you have had to suffer various trials,

7 (Job 23:10; Pr 17:3; Isa 48:10) in order that the genuineness of your faith,

which is more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tried by fire,

may be found to result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation

of Jesus Christ,

8 (Jn 20:29; Heb 11:27) whom, having not seen, you love; and in whom,

though you do not see Him now, you believe and you rejoice with joy

unspeakable and full of glory,

9 (Ro 6:22) receiving as the result of your faith the salvation of your souls.

2) Our Daily Bread for 11 December 2025

Pointing to Jesus by Alyson Kieda



Colossians 3:12-17



12 (Eph 4:2; Lk 1:78) So embrace, as the elect of God, holy and beloved,

a spirit of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, and longsuffering.

13 (Eph 4:32; Mk 11:25; Eph 4:2) Bear with one another and forgive one

another. If anyone has a quarrel against anyone, even as Christ forgave you,

so you must do.

14 (Eph 4:3; 1Co 13:1-13) And above all these things, embrace love,

which is the bond of perfection.

15 (Jn 14:27; Eph 5:20) Let the peace of God, to which also you are called

in one body, rule in your hearts. And be thankful.

16 (Eph 5:19; Col 1:28; Ro 10:17) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly

in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns

and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

17 (1Co 10:31; Eph 5:20) And whatever you do in word or deed,

do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father

through Him.



[12] Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of

mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

[13] Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a

quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

[14] And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of

perfectness.

[15] And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are

called in one body; and be ye thankful.

[16] Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and

admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing

with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

[17] And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord

Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.



An older man jogging down a street in New York City stopped in his tracks

when he noticed a pair of battered sneakers placed near a homeless man's sign

requesting help. When the jogger learned that the two men wore a similar size,

he gave the younger, homeless man the shoes (and socks!) off his feet

and walked home barefoot. But not before explaining, "I've been blessed

my whole life. God has been very good to me, so I feel like

I should bless you too."



Just as this man showed kindness to another because God had been good to him,

so too believers in Jesus are called to "clothe [our]selves

with . . . kindness" (Colossians 3:12). In fact, in whatever we do or say,

we're to do it as "a representative of the Lord Jesus" (v. 17 nlt).

Along with kindness, we're also to embody the characteristics of

"compassion, . . . humility, gentleness and patience" (v. 12).

The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) grows in us because we have

the Spirit dwelling inside us; and this fruit is evidenced by God's love

for us flowing out to others - binding all these virtues

"together in perfect unity" (Colossians 3:14).



Like the jogger, may we be on alert for opportunities to be kind - an

encouraging word, a thoughtful act, or even giving the shoes off our

feet - and as we do, let’s point to Jesus (v. 17).



Reflect & Pray



What effect has another's kindness had on you?

How might you show kindness to someone today?



Loving Father, please help me be attuned

to opportunities to spread Your love through

kind words and actions. I want to be more like You!



Consider three things we can learn from the kindness Jesus showed to everyday people.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 5 Called by Name



Isaiah 43:1



1 But now, thus says the Lord who created you, O Jacob,

and He who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;

I have called you by your name; you are Mine.



1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob,

and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not:

for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.



Eric, age 4, somehow lost his mother in a large and busy department store.

Found sobbing under a coat rack, the boy tried to tell the security guard

where he was when he got separated from his mother. Finally the guard said,

"what's your name, Son? Who do you belong to?"

The child brightened a bit, gave the guard his name, and within minutes

the frantic mother was reunited with her lost son.

One of the first questions we are asked, both as children and adults, is

"What is your name?" - that is, "Who are you? Who do you belong to?"

Children bear the name of their parents, and most women,

except for professional reasons,

take the name of their husbands when they marry.

Our names are our primary method of identification;

they connect us with our heritage and those we love.

In Isaiah 43:1, God declares that we belong to him.

The Lord who created us and formed us says,

"I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine." God's

right of ownership in our lives extends beyond the bond of family and friends,

of parent, child, or spouse. We belong first to him;

we are called by him into oneness with him.

The Scripture is filled with images of the Lord's care for us;

when we are lost, he does

not wait for us to find him,

but takes the initiative, like a loving parent

to seek us out. That declaration of belonging can give us

a strong sense of security in our lives. God loves us;

he will never let us go.



Application



a) What experiences have I had of being lost of abandoned?



b) How can today's verse help me find security in belonging to God?



4) Prosperity verses from Kenneth Copeland



Deut 8:18



18 But you must remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you

the ability to get wealth, so that He may establish His covenant which

He swore to your fathers, as it is today.



18 But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee

power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto

thy fathers, as it is this day.



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



When you are lonely



PSALMS 25:15-21



15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord,

for He will lead my feet from the net.

16 Turn to me, and be gracious to me,

for I am isolated and afflicted.

17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged;

bring me out of my distresses.

18 Look on my pain and misery,

and forgive all my sins.

19 Consider my enemies, for they are many,

and they hate me with violent hatred.

20 Watch over my life, and deliver me!

Let me not suffer shame,

for I seek refuge in You.

21 Truth and integrity will preserve me

while I wait for You.



15 Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD;

For he shall pluck my feet out of the net.

16 Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me;

For I am desolate and afflicted.

17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged:

O bring thou me out of my distresses.

18 Look upon mine affliction and my pain;

And forgive all my sins.

19 Consider mine enemies; for they are many;

And they hate me with cruel hatred.

20 O keep my soul, and deliver me:

Let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.

21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me;

For I wait on thee.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

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

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

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

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

as we forgive our debtors.

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

but deliver us from evil.

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



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

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

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

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

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

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

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





6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



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

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -



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

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

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



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)

Day 345, 11 December 2025 - 19th Day of Advent



1) Titus 1, Titus 2, Titus 3



Titus 1



Salutation



1 (Ro 1:1; 1Ti 6:3) Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ,

according to the faith of God's elect and the knowledge of the truth

which leads to godliness,

2 (2Ti 1:1; 1:9; Titus 2:13) in hope of eternal life which God, who cannot

lie, promised before the world began,

3 (1Ti 1:1; 1:1) 1and has in due time revealed His word through preaching,

with which I was entrusted according to the command of God our Savior,

4 (2Ti 1:2; 2Co 2:13) To Titus, my own son in the common faith:

Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus

Christ our Savior.



[1] Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the

faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after

godliness;

[2] In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the

world began;

[3] But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is

committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;

[4] To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace,

from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.



Titus' Work in Crete



5 (Ac 14:23; 27:7) For this reason I left you in Crete, that you should

set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city,

as I commanded you:

6 (1Ti 3:2-7; 3:12) any man who is blameless, the husband of one wife,

having faithful children who are not accused of being wild or unruly.

7 (Lk 12:42; 2Pe 2:10) For an overseer must be blameless, as a steward

of God, not self-willed, not easily angered, not given to drunkenness,

not violent, not greedy for dishonest gain,

8 (1Ti 3:2) but hospitable, a lover of what is good, self-controlled,

just, holy, temperate,

9 (1Ti 1:10; 2Th 2:15) holding firmly the trustworthy word that is in

accordance with the teaching, that he may be able both to exhort with

sound doctrine and to convince those who oppose it.

10 (1Ti 1:6; Ac 11:2) For there are many unruly men, empty talkers

and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision,

11 (2Ti 3:6; 1Ti 6:5) who must be silenced, who subvert whole houses

by teaching for dishonest gain things they ought not teach.

12 (Ac 17:28) One of them, a prophet of their own, said, "The Cretans are

always liars, evil beasts, and idle gluttons!"

13 (2Co 13:10; Titus 2:2) This witness is true. So rebuke them sharply

that they may be sound in the faith,

14 (Col 2:22; 2Ti 4:4) not paying attention to Jewish myths

and commandments of men who reject the truth.

15 (Ro 14:20; 14:23) To the pure, all things are pure.

But to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure.

Even their minds and consciences are defiled.

16 (1Jn 2:4; Rev 21:8) They profess that they know God,

but in their deeds they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient,

and worthless for every good work.



[5] For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order

the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had

appointed thee:

[6] If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children

not accused of riot or unruly.

[7] For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled,

not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;

[8] But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy,

temperate;

[9] Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be

able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

[10] For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially

they of the circumcision:

[11] Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things

which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.

[12] One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are

alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.

[13] This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be

sound in the faith;

[14] Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn

from the truth.

[15] Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and

unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.

[16] They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being

abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.



Titus 2



The Teaching of Sound Doctrine



1 (1Ti 1:10; Titus 1:9) But as for you,

teach what is fitting of sound doctrine:

2 (1Ti 3:11; Titus 1:13) Older men should be sober, serious, temperate,

sound in faith, in love, in patience.

3 (1Ti 3:8; 3:11) Likewise, older women should be reverent in behaviour,

and not be false accusers, not be enslaved to much wine, but teachers

of good things,

4 (1Ti 5:14) that they may teach the young women to love their husbands,

to love their children,

5 (1Ti 6:1; Ge 3:16) and to be self-controlled, pure, homemakers, good,

obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be dishonoured.

6 (1Ti 5:1) Likewise, exhort young men to be self-controlled,

7 (1Ti 4:12; 1Pe 5:3) in all things presenting yourself as an example of good

works: in doctrine showing integrity, gravity, incorruptibility,

8 (1Pe 2:12; Ne 5:9) and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that

the one who opposes you may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.

9 Exhort servants to be obedient to their own masters, to please them well

in everything, not answering back,

10 (Mt 5:16; Titus 1:3) or stealing, but showing complete fidelity, so that

they may exemplify the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

11 (1Ti 2:4; Ac 11:23) For the grace of God that brings salvation

has appeared to all men,

12 (Lk 1:75; Ro 6:19) teaching us that, denying ungodliness

and worldly desires, we should live soberly, righteously,

and in godliness in this present world,

13 (2Ti 4:8; Titus 1:2) as we await the blessed hope and the appearing

of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,

14 (Eph 2:10; Heb 9:14) who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us

from all lawlessness and purify for Himself a special people,

zealous of good works.

15 (2Ti 4:2; 1Ti 5:20) Teach these things, exhort, and rebuke with all

authority. Let no one despise you.



[1] But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:

[2] That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in

charity, in patience.

[3] The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness,

not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;

[4] That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands,

to love their children,

[5] To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own

husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.

[6] Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.

[7] In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine

shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,

[8] Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary

part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.

[9] Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please

them well in all things; not answering again;

[10] Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the

doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.

[11] For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

[12] Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live

soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

[13] Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great

God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

[14] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and

purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

[15] These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no

man despise thee.



Titus 3



Maintain Good Deeds



1 (2Ti 2:21; Ecc 10:4) Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities,

to obey them, to be ready for every good work,

2 (1Ti 3:3; 2Ti 2:24-25) to speak evil of no one, not to be contentious,

but gentle, showing all humility toward everyone.

3 (Col 3:7) We also were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving

various desires and pleasures, living in evil and envy, filled with hatred

and hating each other.

4 (Titus 2:10-11) But when the kindness and the love of God our Saviour

toward mankind appeared,

5 (Ro 12:2; 1Pe 3:21) not by works of righteousness which we have done,

but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of rebirth

and the renewal of the Holy Spirit,

6 (Ro 5:5; Joel 2:28) whom He poured out on us abundantly through

Jesus Christ our Saviour,

7 (Ro 8:17; Titus 1:2) so that, being justified by His grace, we might

become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

8 (1Ti 1:15; Titus 2:14) This is a faithful saying, and these things I want

you constantly to affirm, so that those who have believed in God might be

careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to

everyone.

9 (2Ti 2:14; 2:23) But avoid foolish debates, genealogies, contentions,

and arguments about the law, for they are unprofitable and useless.

10 (Ro 16:17; 2Jn 1:10) Reject a divisive man after a first and second

admonition,

11 knowing that such a man is perverted and is sinning, being self-condemned.



[1] Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey

magistrates, to be ready to every good work,

[2] To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all

meekness unto all men.

[3] For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived,

serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and

hating one another.

[4] But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man

appeared,

[5] Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his

mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy

Ghost;

[6] Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour;

[7] That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to

the hope of eternal life.

[8] This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm

constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to

maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

[9] But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and

strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

[10] A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

[11] Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned

of himself.



Personal Instructions and Greetings



12 (Ac 20:4; 2Ti 4:9) When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, be diligent

to come to me in Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there.

13 (Ac 18:24; Mt 22:35) Diligently send Zenas the lawyer and Apollos

on their journey. See that they lack nothing.

14 (Php 1:11; Col 1:10) And let our people also learn to continue doing good

works to meet urgent needs, that they may not be unproductive.

15 (Col 4:18) All who are with me greet you.

Greet those who love us in the faith.

Grace be with you all. Amen.



[12] When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come

unto me to Nicopolis: for I have determined there to winter.

[13] Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that

nothing be wanting unto them.

[14] And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that

they be not unfruitful.

[15] All that are with me salute thee. Greet them that love us in the faith.

Grace be with you all. Amen.

7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



10th Day of the Month



a) Pray for Canadians from Coast to Coast to Coast, that the reality of

Jesus's sacrifice and love will touch them personally.



(

John 3:16



16 (Ro 5:8; 1Jn 4:9-10; Jn 1:18)

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son,

that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life."



16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that

whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.



)



b) Pray for students, that the Lord will grant them protection of body,

soul, mind and spirit and fill them with godly desires and true hope.



Advent Day 18



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



Wednesday. Third Week of Advent



"The Scotch catechism says that man's end is 'to glorify God and enjoy Him

forever'. But we shall then know that these are the same thing. Fully to

enjoy is to glorify. In commanding us to glorify Him, God is inviting us

to enjoy Him." - C. S. Lewis



(Read this and more in Reflections on the Psalms, p. 97.)



Enjoying God



When we set aside the flurry of activity that so often comes in December,

we can almost hear the message of the angels. They in­vited the shepherds

not to be afraid, but to give glory to God. Lewis tells us that when they

did this, the angels were inviting them to enjoy God.



Aren't we, too, being invited in this holy season to give glory to God?

God doesn't really need our praise and glory, but he knows that we need

to lift up our hearts. We need to lift up our eyes unto the hills,

from whence our help comes, and see the glory that will be revealed to us.



Narnia can help us to do that. Narnia contains many pleasures, and they all

come from God. The gifts of Father Christmas to Peter, Susan, and Lucy

are some of those pleasures. The crowning of the four children to be Kings

and Queens of Narnia are another. The arrival of Reepicheep, the talking

mouse, in Aslan's country is a third. God gave Lewis the vision.

In enjoying his vision, we are enjoying God.



Even in the midst of suffering, we need this reminder. St. Paul tells us,

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with

the glory that will be revealed to us" (Rom. 8:18). When we give glory to God,

it reminds us of the glory that will be revealed to us. And we find joy

in this glory. That's one reason why the message was "good news

of great joy" (Luke 2:10), not only for the shepherds,

but "for all the people"-including us.



Glory to you, 0 Lord. Praise to you, 0 Christ.

Glory to God in the highest. Amen.



Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace to men on whom his favour rests.



Luke 2:14



From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dawn



WEDNESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT



The Gift of a Child



Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.



-Luke 1:57



Because our culture has basically disregarded God, our society

at large does not appreciate what a colossal treasure

from God a child is! Some women, including me, for mainly medical reasons,

can't bear children and for that reason comprehend much more deeply

how precious such a gift is.



Elizabeth, too, had not been able to bear children earlier in her youth,

and it was incontrovertibly miraculous that she could give birth

now in her older years. Her friends and relatives knew what

an enormous benevolence from God this child was-the text says that

they had "heard that the Lord had shown his great mercy to [Elizabeth]"

-so they enthusiastically joined her in rejoicing.

What a splendid celebration they must have had!





What cherished blessing have you received from the Lord lately?

Do you need to prize afresh your spouse or children as treasures from God?

Perhaps your God-given gifts include friends, colleagues

or relatives who bring you mercy and grace.



prayer



Thank you, Bounteous God, for ALL your gifts. Amen.



Read Luke 1:57-58.



57 Now Elizabeth's time had come to give birth, and she gave birth to a son.

58 Her neighbours and cousins heard how the Lord had shown her great mercy,

and they rejoiced with her.



From The Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler



THIRD WEDNESDAY

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

Therefore be patient, brothers,

until the coming of the Lord. JAMES 5:7



Have you heard the story of Grandma saying to Grandpa, "What are

you doing?" Grandpa slowly responds, "How soon do you need to know?"

Patience, patience, patience.

In the book Power of Pause, Terry Hershey tells the story of a little girl

who says. "Shh, Mom, listen." "What am I listening to?" asks Mom

The girl responds, "If you are quiet and listen, you can hear God talking

to us." Patience, patience, patience.

The AH-HA of awaiting is the call to be patient, and to be quiet in order

to hear the Lord in the big and little events of our lives. "The first duty

of love is to wait," said a patient man named Tillich. Are you ever like I am

when I anxiously wait for someone to stop talking so I can say something

"brilliant" ? As one comic quipped. "No one really listens to anyone else, and

if you ever try to for a while, you'll know why!" Patience. patience. patience.

Just for today. try to really listen to someone with your entire self.

And then keep going back to re-read James 5 . .. over and over.

Patience, patience, patience.

Lord. give us the gift of patience and the AH-HA of awaiting right now:

Well, if not now, then give us the pause of patience to listen and love

people today, as you continue to love us. with lots of patience!

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



Read James 5:7-11



7 (Dt 11:14; Jer 5:24) Therefore be patient, brothers,

until the coming of the Lord. Notice how the farmer waits for the precious

fruit of the earth and is patient with it until he receives the early

and late rain.

8 (1Pe 4:7; Php 4:5) You also be patient. Establish your hearts,

for the coming of the Lord is drawing near.

9 (Mt 24:33; 1Co 4:5) Do not grumble against one another, brothers,

lest you be condemned. Look, the Judge is standing at the door.

10 (Ac 7:52; Heb 11:32-38) My brothers, take the prophets,

who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.

11 (Ex 34:6; Job 1:21-22) Indeed we count them happy who endure.

You have heard of the patience of Job and have seen the purpose of the Lord,

that the Lord is very gracious and merciful.





From On Eagle's wings

Jesus Knows!



29 (Jn 4:17-18; 4:25) "Come, see a Man who told me all things that I ever did.

Could this be the Christ?"



[29] Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this

the Christ?



The Bible Camp children were acting out the woman at the well, our

Bible story for the day. They understood the gist of the story very

well, but there was a lot of ad-libbing as the children took turns to

be different characters.

Our Jesus's grew especially creative in telling the woman all the

bad things she had done - even stealing a car and robbing a bank!

Sometimes their lists of wrong doings were long as well as

humorous. One thing remained consistent, though, and that was

the woman's joy and relief when she understood that Jesus loved

her and forgave her sin.

The children;s imaginative list of sins reminds me that, by the time

we enter Advent, Jesus knows that we have usually accumulated a

long list of sins and a heavy load of burdens over the course of the

year. Just as with the woman at the well, they often isolate us from

others.

The good news of Advent is that nothing we have done can deter

Jesus from coming to us in the flesh, living among us and offering

us new life. Therefore, let us prepare to accept Jesus’ gift of living

water, love and grace.



Rev. Lesley Hand

Former Executive Director & Volunteer Bible Camp teacher



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to conduct yourself as Jesus does

and pray to discern false philosophies.



Pray to the Lord: "Heavenly Father, please forgive me for my failure

to honour You fully. Renew my heart through Your words today."



Pray to the Lord and pray to know He hears to prayers of the supressed.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Lord is your guide in all times.



Pray to the Lord and pray to dwell in the Almighty.



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

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



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

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -

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

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

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



Pray for Canadians from Coast to Coast to Coast, that the reality of

Jesus's sacrifice and love will touch them personally.



Pray for students, that the Lord will grant them protection of body,

soul, mind and spirit and fill them with godly desires and true hope.



Glory to you, O Lord. Praise to you, O Christ.

Glory to God in the highest. Amen.



Pray: Thank you, Bounteous God, for ALL your gifts. Amen.



Pray: Lord. give us the gift of patience and the AH-HA of awaiting right now:

Well, if not now, then give us the pause of patience to listen and love

people today, as you continue to love us. with lots of patience!

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



Pray: Loving God who knows everything about us, reveal to us the path

from the isolation of sin to joyful acceptance into your presence

and family. Renew us with living water that, at your birth, we may

wholeheartedly rejoice. Amen.



Although Bibles are only available in some cities,

may every Tajik believer have their own printed copy.



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.

3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 4 Under the Mercy



Ps 13:5-6



5 I for my part confide in Your kindness;may my heart exult in Your salvation!

6 I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.



5 But I have trusted in thy mercy; My heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.

6 I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.



In Sheldon Vanauken's book "A Severe Mercy", Vanauken faced the "severe mercy"

of the untimely death of his wife. His friend C. S. Lewis , who had endured a

similar grief , comforted him through letters,

encouraging him with the exhotation, "Go under the Mercy".

While God's grace deals with sin and forgiveness,

God's mercy deals with the pain pf human existence. We all experience pain

- sometimes as a natural result of wrongs we have done, sometimes unfairly

as a consequence of living in a fallen world.

But for all who hurt, God provides

mercy - respite from pain, and the assurance of a Lord who cares.

David , in Psalm 13 says " I trust in your mercy, your unfailing love."

God's love never fail us, no matter how much we may have failed him.

David knew the consequences of sin; he knew what it meant to fail God,

to rebel against God's faithfulness. Yet David trusted in God's Goodness

rather than depending upon his own; he focused his attention upon the

mercy of the Lord.

We need, like David, to "Go under the mercy", even when it is a

"severe mercy."

Even when circumstances seem bad; even when things seem out of control; even

when we think God has forsaken us, yet his mercy is at work to bring us

fulfillment and cause us to turn to him

with a song of praise on our lips.



Application



a) How have I experienced the mercy of God?



b) How can these verses help me focus on God's

merciful intervention in my life even when circumstances seem

out of control?



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 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



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

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -



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

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

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



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)

1 Timothy 6



1 (Titus 2:5; Isa 52:5) Let as many servants as are under the yoke of slavery

count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His

doctrine may not be slandered.

2 (1Ti 4:11) Let those who have believing masters not despise them, because

they are brothers. Instead, let them serve as slaves, because those who

receive their service are faithful and beloved.



[1] Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters

worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not

blasphemed.

[2] And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because

they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and

beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.



False Teaching and True Wealth



Teach and command these things.

3 (1Ti 1:3; 1:10) Anyone who teaches otherwise and does not consent

to wholesome words, to the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to godly

doctrine

4 (1Ti 1:4; 3:6) is conceited and knows nothing. He has a morbid

disposition for controversy and verbal disputes, from which come envy,

strife, blasphemies, evil speculations,

5 (2Ti 3:8; Titus 1:11) constant disputes by men of corrupt minds, being

destitute of the truth, and supposing that financial gain is godliness.

Withdraw yourself from such men.

6 (1Ti 4:8; Heb 13:5) But godliness with contentment is great gain.

7 (Job 1:21; Ps 49:17) For we brought nothing into this world,

and it is certain that we can carry nothing out.

8 (Ge 28:20) If we have food and clothing, we shall be content with

these things.

9 (Pr 15:27; 1Ti 3:7) But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation

and a snare and into many foolish and harmful lusts, which drown men

in ruin and destruction.

10 (Dt 16:19) For the love of money is the root of all evil.

While coveting after money, some have strayed from the faith

and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.



[3] If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the

words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to

godliness;

[4] He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of

words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,

[5] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth,

supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

[6] But godliness with contentment is great gain.

[7] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry

nothing out.

[8] And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

[9] But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into

many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and

perdition.

[10] For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted

after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with

many sorrows.



The Good Fight of Faith



11 (2Ti 2:22; 3:17) But you, O man of God, escape these things, and follow

after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and gentleness.

12 (1Ti 1:18; 1Co 9:25-66) Fight the good fight of faith. Lay hold

on eternal life, to which you are called and have professed

a good profession before many witnesses.

13 (1Ti 5:21; Mt 27:11) I command you, in the sight of God, who gives

life to all things, and in the sight of Christ Jesus, who testified

a good confession before Pontius Pilate,

14 to keep this commandment without blemish, blameless

until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,

15 (1Ti 1:11; Rev 17:14) which He, who is the blessed and only Ruler,

the King of kings and Lord of lords, will reveal at the proper time.

16 (1Ti 1:17; Jn 1:18; Ps 104:2) He alone has immortality, living in

unapproachable light, whom no one has seen, nor can see.

To Him be honor and everlasting power. Amen.

17 (Ro 11:20; 1Ti 4:10) Command those who are rich in this world that

they not be conceited, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God,

who richly gives us all things to enjoy.

18 (Ro 12:8; 12:13) Command that they do good, that they be rich in good

works, generous, willing to share,

19 (Lk 16:9; 1Ti 6:12) and laying up in store for themselves a good

foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of eternal life.

20 (Col 2:8; 2Ti 2:16) O Timothy, guard that which is committed to your trust.

Avoid profane babblings and opposing views from so-called knowledge.

21 (2Ti 2:18; Col 4:18) By professing it, some have erred concerning

the faith.

Grace be with you. Amen.



[11] But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after

righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

[12] Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou

art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

[13] I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and

before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;

[14] That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the

appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:

[15] Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only

Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;

[16] Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can

approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and

power everlasting. Amen.

[17] Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded,

nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly

all things to enjoy;

[18] That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to

distribute, willing to communicate;

[19] Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to

come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

[20] O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane

and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called:

[21] Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with

thee. Amen.



2) Our Daily Bread for 10 December 2025 Titled

Unforgettable Lessons by

Arthur Jackson



Proverbs 3:1-12



The Rewards of Wisdom



1 (Pr 4:5; Dt 8:1) My son, do not forget my teaching,

but let your heart keep my commandments;

2 (Pr 4:10; Ps 91:16) for length of days and long life

and peace will they add to you.

3 (Pr 7:3; 6:21; 2Co 3:3) Do not let mercy and truth forsake you;

bind them around your neck,

write them on the tablet of your heart,

4 (Ps 111:10; 1Sa 2:26; Lk 2:52) so you will find favor and good understanding

in the sight of God and man.

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

and lean not on your own understanding;

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

and He will direct your paths.

7 (Job 1:1; Ro 12:16) Do not be wise in your own eyes;

fear the Lord and depart from evil.

8 (Job 21:24; Pr 4:22) It will be health to your body,

and strength to your bones.

9 (Ex 23:19; 22:29) Honor the Lord with your substance,

and with the first fruits of all your increase;

10 (Dt 28:8) so your barns will be filled with plenty,

and your presses will burst out with new wine.

11 (Job 5:17) My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord,

nor be weary of His correction;

12 (Dt 8:5) for whom the Lord loves He corrects,

even as a father the son in whom he delights.



1 My son, forget not my law;

But let thine heart keep my commandments:

2 For length of days, and long life,

And peace, shall they add to thee.

3 Let not mercy and truth forsake thee:

Bind them about thy neck;

Write them upon the table of thine heart:

4 So shalt thou find favour and good understanding

In the sight of God and man.

5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart;

And lean not unto thine own understanding.

6 In all thy ways acknowledge him,

And he shall direct thy paths.

7 Be not wise in thine own eyes:

Fear the LORD, and depart from evil.

8 It shall be health to thy navel,

And marrow to thy bones.

9 Honour the LORD with thy substance,

And with the firstfruits of all thine increase:

10 So shall thy barns be filled with plenty,

And thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD;

Neither be weary of his correction:

12 For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth;

Even as a father the son in whom he delighteth.



Corey Brooks - "The Rooftop Pastor" - spent 343 days living on the rooftop of

his church on Chicago's south side to inspire community transformation.

Online, Brooks posted a "shout-out" to his elementary school teacher Joe

Stokes, who taught him four unforgettable lessons: the power of perseverance,

the importance of integrity, the value of community engagement,

and the impact of education.



By embracing Solomon's wisdom in Proverbs 3, we likewise can strive to live in

ways that have community impact. Solomon taught four lessons that are just

right for those who trust in God and are called to be a positive force:

"Trust in the Lord" (v. 5); "fear the Lord and shun evil" (v. 7); "honour the

Lord with your wealth" (v. 9); "do not despise the Lord’s discipline" (v. 11).

Such wisdom compels us to be God-focused, but there are people-touching

dimensions to our faith too.



In Matthew 5:3-12, Jesus, the ultimate embodiment of wisdom, eloquently

described the internal disposition of believers in Jesus. Furthermore,

He reminded them that they were high-impact people. "You are the salt

of the earth" (v. 13). "You are the light of the world" (v. 14). As such, we

are honoured to "Let [our] light shine . . . that they may see [our]

good deeds and glorify [our] Father in heaven" (v. 16).



Reflect & Pray



Who compels you to honor God in ways that also touch people?

How can you reengage with lessons from the Bible you may have forgotten?



Heavenly Father, please forgive me for my failure

to honour You fully. Renew my heart through Your words today.



For further study, read At the City Gates.

1 Timothy 3



Qualifications of Deacons



8 (Php 1:1; Titus 2:3; Lev 10:9) Likewise deacons must be serious,

not insincere, not given to much wine, not greedy,

9 (1Ti 1:19; 1:5) keeping the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

10 (1Ti 5:22) And let them first be tested; then, being found blameless,

let them serve as deacons.

11 (Titus 2:3; 2Ti 3:3; 1Ti 3:2) Likewise, their wives must be serious,

not slanderers, sober, and faithful in all things.

12 (1Ti 3:2) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife,

managing their children and their own houses well.

13 (Mt 25:21) For those who have served well in the office of deacon

purchase for themselves good standing and great boldness in the faith,

which is in Christ Jesus.



[8] Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much

wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;

[9] Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.

[10] And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a

deacon, being found blameless.

[11] Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in

all things.

[12] Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and

their own houses well.

[13] For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to

themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ

Jesus.



The Mystery of Our Religion



14 I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you shortly,

15 (Mt 16:16; 18:18) but if I am delayed, you might know how you ought

to conduct yourself in the house of God, which is the church of the living

God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.

16 (Jn 1:14; Heb 1:3; Mk 16:19) Without question, great is the mystery

of godliness:

God was revealed in the flesh,

justified in the Spirit,

seen by angels,

preached to the Gentiles,

believed on in the world,

taken up into glory.



[14] These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:

[15] But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave

thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the

pillar and ground of the truth.

[16] And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was

manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached

unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.



1 Timothy 4



Prediction of Apostasy



1 (Jn 16:13; 2Pe 3:3) Now the Spirit clearly says that in the last times

some will depart from the faith and pay attention to seducing spirits

and doctrines of devils,

2 (Eph 4:19) speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their consciences seared

with a hot iron,

3 (Ro 14:6; Heb 13:4) forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain

from foods, which God has created to be received with thanksgiving

by those who believe and know the truth.

4 (Ge 1:31; Ro 14:14) For everything created by God is good, and not to

be refused if it is received with thanksgiving,

5 for it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.



[1] Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall

depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of

devils;

[2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot

iron;

[3] Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God

hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know

the truth.

[4] For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be

received with thanksgiving:

[5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.



A Good Minister of Christ Jesus



6 (1Ti 1:10) If you remind the brothers of these things, you will be a good

minister of Jesus Christ, nourished by the words of faith and of good

doctrine, which you have followed closely.

7 (1Ti 1:4; 2Ti 2:16; Heb 5:14) But refuse profane and foolish myths.

Instead, exercise in the ways of godliness.

8 (Mt 6:33; 1Ti 6:6) For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness

is profitable in all things, holding promise for the present life

and also for the life to come.

9 (1Ti 1:15) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance.

10 (1Ti 2:4; 3:15) For to this end we both labor and suffer reproach,

because we trust in the living God, who is the Savior of all men,

especially of those who believe.

11 (1Ti 6:2; 5:7) Command and teach these things.

12 (2Ti 2:22; Titus 2:7) Let no one despise your youth, but be an example

to the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith,

and in purity.

13 Until I come, give attention to reading, exhortation, and doctrine.

14 (2Ti 1:6; Ac 6:6; 1Ti 1:18) Do not neglect the gift that is in you,

which was given to you by prophecy, with the laying on of hands

by the elders.

15 Meditate on these things. Give yourself completely to them,

that your progress may be known to everyone.

16 (Titus 2:7; Ro 11:14) Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine.

Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself

and those who hear you.



[6] If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a

good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of

good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.

[7] But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather

unto godliness.

[8] For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto

all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to

come.

[9] This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.

[10] For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in

the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that

believe.

[11] These things command and teach.

[12] Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers,

in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

[13] Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.

[14] Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy,

with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.

[15] Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy

profiting may appear to all.

[16] Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in

doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.



1 Timothy 5



Duties Toward Others



1 (Lev 19:32; Titus 2:6) Do not rebuke an elder, but exhort him as a father,

the younger men as brothers,

2 the elder women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, with complete

purity.

3 (Ac 6:1; 9:39) Honor widows that are widows indeed.

4 (1Ti 2:3; Ge 45:10-11) But if any widow has children or grandchildren,

let them learn first to show piety at home and to repay their parents.

For this is good and acceptable before God.

5 (Lk 2:37; 1Ti 5:3) Now she who is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts

in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day.

6 (Lk 15:24; Jas 5:5) But she who lives in pleasure is dead while she lives.

7 (1Ti 4:11) And these things command, that they may be blameless.

8 (Titus 1:16; Gal 6:10) But if any do not care for their own,

and especially for those of their own house, they have denied the faith

and are worse than unbelievers.

9 (1Ti 3:2) Do not let a widow be counted unless she is over sixty years old,

has been the wife of one man,

10 (1Ti 6:18; Titus 3:8) is well attested in good works, if she has brought

up children, has lodged strangers, has washed the saints' feet, has relieved

the afflicted, and has diligently followed every good work.

11 (1Ti 5:14) But refuse the younger widows, for when their sensual desires

have drawn them away from Christ, they want to marry,

12 and bring judgment on themselves, because they have cast off their

first pledge.

13 (Pr 20:19; Titus 1:11) Besides that, they learn to be idle, and not only

idle, wandering around from house to house, but also gossips and busybodies,

saying what they ought not.

14 (Titus 2:5; 1Ti 6:1; 4:3) Therefore I desire that the younger women marry,

bear children, manage the house, and give no occasion to the adversary

to speak reproachfully.

15 For some have already turned aside after Satan.

16 (1Ti 5:3-5) If any believing man or woman has widows, let those assist

them. Do not let the church be charged, so that it may relieve those

who are widows indeed.

17 (Ro 12:8; Php 2:29) Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy

of double honour, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine.

18 (Dt 25:4; Lev 19:13; Mt 10:10) For the Scripture says, "You shall not

muzzle the ox that treads out the grain,"(Dt 25:4.) and, "The laborer is

worthy of his reward."(Lk 10:7.)

19 (Dt 19:15; Mt 18:16) Do not receive an accusation against an elder,

except before two or three witnesses.

20 (Dt 13:11; 2Ti 4:2) Rebuke in the presence of everyone those who sin,

that the rest also may fear.

21 (1Ti 6:13; 2Ti 4:1) I command you before God and the Lord Jesus Christ

and the elect angels that you observe these things without prejudice,

doing nothing by partiality.

22 (Ac 6:6; Eph 5:11) Do not lay hands suddenly on anyone, and do not

partake of other men's sins. Keep yourself pure.

23 (1Ti 3:8; Ps 104:15) No longer drink only water, but use a little wine

for your stomach's sake and your frequent illnesses.

24 Some men's sins are evident, pointing to judgment,

but other men's sins are revealed later.

25 Likewise, the good works of some are evident,

but those that are not cannot be hidden.



[1] Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as

brethren;

[2] The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.

[3] Honour widows that are widows indeed.

[4] But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew

piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable

before God.

[5] Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and

continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.

[6] But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.

[7] And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.

[8] But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own

house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

[9] Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old,

having been the wife of one man,

[10] Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if

she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have

relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

[11] But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton

against Christ, they will marry;

[12] Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.

[13] And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house;

and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which

they ought not.

[14] I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the

house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

[15] For some are already turned aside after Satan.

[16] If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them,

and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows

indeed.

[17] Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour,

especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

[18] For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out

the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.

[19] Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three

witnesses.

[20] Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.

[21] I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect

angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before

another, doing nothing by partiality.

[22] Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins:

keep thyself pure.

[23] Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and

thine often infirmities.

[24] Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some

men they follow after.

[25] Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they

that are otherwise cannot be hid.

Day 344, 10 December 2025 - 18 Day of Advent



1) 1 Timothy 1, 1 Timothy 2, 1 Timothy 3, 1 Timothy 4, 1 Timothy 5,

1 Timothy 6



1 Timothy 1



Salutation



1 (Titus 1:3; Col 1:27; Lk 1:47) Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by

the command of God our Savior, and of the Lord Jesus Christ, our hope,

2 (2Ti 1:2; Titus 1:4; Ro 1:7) To Timothy, my true son in the faith:

Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.



[1] Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour,

and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;

[2] Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God

our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.



Warning Against False Doctrine



3 (Gal 1:6-7; 1Ti 6:3) As I urged you when I went into Macedonia,

continue to remain at Ephesus so that you might command some to teach

no other doctrine,

4 (1Ti 4:7; Titus 1:14) nor pay attention to fables and endless genealogies,

which cause debates rather than godly edifying, which is in faith.

5 (2Ti 1:5; 2:22) Now the goal of this command is love from a pure heart,

and from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.

6 (Titus 1:10) From this, some have lost their way and turned aside

to empty talk,

7 (1Ti 6:4) desiring to be teachers of the law, and understanding

neither what they say nor what they affirm.

8 (Ro 7:16) But we know that the law is good if someone uses it lawfully.

9 (Gal 5:23; 3:19) And we know that the law is not given for a righteous

person, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners,

for the unholy and the profane, for those who kill their fathers and mothers,

for murderers,

10 (2Ti 4:3; Lev 18:22) for the sexually immoral, for sodomites, for slave

traders, for liars, for perjurers, and for anything else that is contrary

to sound doctrine,

11 (Gal 2:7; 2Co 4:4) according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God,

which was committed to my trust.



[3] As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into

Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,

[4] Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister

questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.

[5] Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a

good conscience, and of faith unfeigned:

[6] From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;

[7] Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say,

nor whereof they affirm.

[8] But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully;

[9] Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the

lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and

profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,

[10] For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for

menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other

thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

[11] According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was

committed to my trust.



Thankfulness for Mercy



12 (Php 4:13; Ac 9:15) I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me,

because He counted me faithful and appointed me to the ministry.

13 (Ac 8:3; 3:17) I was previously a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and an

insolent man. But I was shown mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

14 (2Ti 1:13) The grace of our Lord overflowed with the faith

and love which is in Christ Jesus.

15 (1Ti 3:1; 2Ti 2:11) This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance,

that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst.

16 (1Ti 1:13; Eph 2:7) But I received mercy for this reason, that in me,

first, Jesus Christ might show all patience, as an example to those who were

to believe in Him for eternal life.

17 (Col 1:15; Mt 6:13) Now to the eternal, immortal, invisible King, the only

wise God, be honor and glory forever. Amen.

18 (1Ti 4:14; 1:2) This command I commit to you, my son Timothy, according

to the prophecies that were previously given to you, that by them you might

fight a good fight,

19 (1Ti 1:5; 3:9) keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have

rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith.

20 (2Ti 2:17; Ac 13:45) Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have

delivered to Satan that they may learn not to blaspheme.



[12] And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he

counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

[13] Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I

obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

[14] And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love

which is in Christ Jesus.

[15] This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ

Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

[16] Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ

might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should

hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

[17] Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be

honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

[18] This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the

prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good

warfare;

[19] Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away

concerning faith have made shipwreck:

[20] Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan,

that they may learn not to blaspheme.



1 Timothy 2



Instructions Concerning Prayer



1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications, prayers,

intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

2 (Ezr 6:10) for kings and for all who are in authority, that we may lead

a quiet and peaceful life in all godliness and honesty,

3 (1Ti 1:1; Lk 1:47) for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God

our Saviour,

4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32) who desires all men to be saved and to come

to the knowledge of the truth.

5 (Gal 3:20; 1Co 8:6; Dt 6:4) There is one God and one mediator between God

and men, the Man Christ Jesus,

6 (1Co 1:6; 1Ti 6:15) who gave Himself as a ransom for all.

This was the testimony given at the proper time.

7 (Ac 9:15; 2Ti 1:11) For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle

(I speak the truth in Christ and do not lie), a teacher of the Gentiles

in faith and truth.

8 (Ps 134:2; Jn 4:21) Therefore I desire that the men pray everywhere, lifting

up holy hands, without wrath or contentiousness.

9 In like manner also, that women clothe themselves in modest clothing, with

decency and self-control, not with braided hair, gold, pearls, or expensive

clothing,

10 but with good works, which is proper for women professing godliness.

11 Let a woman learn in silence with all obedience.

12 (1Co 14:34) I do not permit a woman to teach or to usurp authority

over a man, but to be silent.

13 (Ge 2:22; 2:7) For Adam was formed first, then Eve.

14 (Ge 3:6; 2Co 11:3) And Adam was not deceived, but the woman, being

deceived, fell into sin.

15 (1Ti 1:14) Yet she will be saved in childbearing if they continue

in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.



[1] I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,

intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

[2] For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet

and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

[3] For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

[4] Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the

truth.

[5] For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man

Christ Jesus;

[6] Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

[7] Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth

in Christ, and lie not; ) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

[8] I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands,

without wrath and doubting.

[9] In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with

shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or

costly array;

[10] But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

[11] Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.

[12] But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man,

but to be in silence.

[13] For Adam was first formed, then Eve.

[14] And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the

transgression.

[15] Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in

faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.



1 Timothy 3



Qualifications of Overseers



1 (Ac 20:28; 1Ti 1:15; Ac 1:20) This is a faithful saying: If a man desires

the office of an overseer, he desires a good work.

2 (1Ti 5:9; 2Ti 2:24) An overseer then must be blameless, the husband

of one wife, sober, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach;

3 (Titus 1:7; 1Ti 3:8; Lev 10:9) not given to drunkenness, not violent, not

greedy for money, but patient, not argumentative, not covetous;

4 (1Ti 3:12; Titus 1:6) and one who manages his own house well, having his

children in submission with all reverence.

5 (1Ti 3:15) For if a man does not know how to manage his own house, how will

he take care of the church of God?

6 (1Ti 6:4) He must not be newly converted, so that he does not become

prideful and fall into the condemnation of the devil.

7 (2Ti 2:26; 1Ti 6:9) Moreover he must have a good reputation among those who

are outsiders, so that he does not fall into reproach and the snare of the

devil.



[1] This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he

desireth a good work.

[2] A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant,

sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

[3] Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient,

not a brawler, not covetous;

[4] One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection

with all gravity;

[5] (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care

of the church of God?)

[6] Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the

condemnation of the devil.

[7] Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he

fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Advent Day 17

From C.S. Lewis A grand Miracle by Joel Heck



"'It seems, then," said Tirian... "that the Stable

seen from within and the Stable seen from without are two different places."



'Yes,' said the Lord Digory. 'Its inside is bigger than its outside.'



"Yes,' said Queen Lucy. 'In our world too, a Stable once

had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world.'"



- C. S. Lewis



(Read this and more in The Last Battle, p. 141.)



Bigger than the Whole World



Lucy and some of her friends had come into Narnia, thinking that they were

going to rescue Narnia from its enemies. But when the battle turned against

them, they thought they were about to die. Narnia had been overrun

by Calormenes, and during the battle Lucy and her friends were forced

into a stable. They soon discovered that they had actually entered

the Narnian heaven. An apparent defeat turned out to be the ultimate victory.



During that moment Queen Lucy recalls, "In our world too, a

Stable once had something inside it that was bigger than our whole world."

The stable to which Lucy referred was, of course, the stable of Bethlehem.

It once had something inside it that was bigger than the whole world,

the baby Jesus. We will one day experience the same firsthand,

we who humble ourselves to receive this Christ child.

We know that big things come in small packages. Small towns.



Short people. Diamond rings. Babies especially. But also heart, courage,

determination, and faith. Faith can move mountains, but it doesn't need

to be big to do so. Jesus said, "If you have faith as small as a mustard

seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there'

and it will move" (Matt. 17:20).



Lord Jesus, your greatness comes in smallness.

Give us a small faith in a great Savior. Amen.



But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small

among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for

me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins

are from of old, from ancient times.



Micah 5:2



From Follow the Story by Marva J. Dean



TUESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT



Did Mary Stay?



Mary remained with her about three months

and returned to her own house.



-Luke 1:56



The question of our title today lingers with me because the Gospel text is

ambiguous. We have been told by the angel Gabriel that Elizabeth was already

six months along in her pregnancy when Mary received the news of hers.

If we add the months that Mary remained with her, Elizabeth must have given

birth before Mary left-but we aren't specifically told that.



Because Mary had traveled so far, one doubts if she would have gone home

before the big event of the baby's birth. Besides, she surely would want

to assist her relative through her last days of pregnancy and first days

of motherhood.



Why does the question matter? Mary was getting to the time when she would

be scorned for being pregnant before marrying Joseph. Imagine that God

furnished Mary with extra courage



by granting her the privilege of witnessing the birth of her promised child's

Forerunner and by sharing in the ardent faith of Elizabeth and Zechariah.



prayer



Thank you again, Gracious Father, that these two women had

each other. Amen.



Read Luke 1:45-56.



45 Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a completion

to those things which were told her by the Lord."



The Song of Mary



46 And Mary said:

"My soul magnifies the Lord,

47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

48 For He has regarded

the low estate of His servant;

surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed.

49 For He who is mighty has done great things for me,

and holy is His name.

50 His mercy is on those who fear Him

from generation to generation.

51 He has shown strength with His arm;

He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

52 He has pulled down the mighty from their thrones

and exalted those of low degree.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things,

and the rich He has sent away empty.

54 He has helped His servant Israel,

in remembrance of His mercy,

55 as He spoke to our fathers,

to Abraham and to his descendants forever."

56 Mary remained with her about three months

and returned to her own house.



From The AH-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler



THIRD TUESDAY

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



2 (Mt 14:3; 4:12) Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ,

he sent two of his disciples,

3 (Heb 10:37; Jn 11:27) and said to Him, "Are You He who should come,

or should we look for another?" MATTHEW 11:2-3



Who has prepared you to receive God's love and t)ope in Jesus Christ?

Who has been telling his story to you in both word and action? I hope

there have been many people in your history. as well as in your present.

who continue to be like John the Baptist to you as they "prepare the way of

the Lord" in and for you!

And to whom are you John the Baptist? This question does not refer of

course, to the taste and style of your clothes or what weird diets you may

be on. I'm simply asking how you are preparing people to hear and see

God's presence in Christ Jesus in their lives as well as in yours.

The AH-HA of ancestors is not talking about our old relatives and the

"good old days" of the Bible or even of our lives. Instead, it is centering

us on the people around us, now and in the past, who have brought the

message of Jesus to us.

Thank the Lord today for your ancestors who have prepared you to know

and love the Lord. If they are still here on earth, tell them you love them. If

not, thank the Lord for giving them to you as a Christmas gift!

Lord, you have prepared us through Word and sacrament (and though

special people) to be your child. Thank you for the legion of ancestors

with whom you've surrounded us. And empower us to be like John

the Baptist as we help other people to "prepare the way" for you

to come into their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Read Matthew 11:2-11



2 (Mt 14:3; 4:12) Now when John had heard in prison the works of Christ,

he sent two of his disciples,

3 (Heb 10:37; Jn 11:27) and said to Him, "Are You He who should come,

or should we look for another?"

4 Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see:

5 (Lk 4:18; Isa 35:4-6; Mt 5:3) The blind receive their sight

and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear,

the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.

[Taken from Isa 35:5-6; 61:1.]

6 (Isa 8:14-15; Mt 24:10) Blessed is he who does not fall away because of Me."

7 (Eph 4:14; Jas 1:6) As they departed, Jesus began to say to the crowds

concerning John, "What did you go out into the wilderness to see?

A reed shaken by the wind? 8If not, what did you go out to see?

A man dressed in soft clothing? Indeed,

those who wear soft clothing are in kings' houses.

9 (Lk 1:76; Mt 14:5) Then what did you go out to see? A prophet?

Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.

10 (Mal 3:1; Mk 1:2) For this is he of whom it is written:

'Look, I am sending My messenger before Your face,

who will prepare Your way before You.'[Mal 3:1.]

11 Truly I say to you, among those who are born of women,

there has risen no one greater than John the Baptist.

But he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.



From On Eagle's wings



Gifts

1 (Isa 43:10; 52:13) Here is My servant, whom I uphold,

My chosen one, in whom My soul delights.

I have put My Spirit upon him;

he shall bring forth justice to the nations.



[1] Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul

delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to

the Gentiles. Isaiah 42:1



At my church recently I had the opportunity to joyfully celebrate

the installation of our new priest, Father Dave. Another priest,

Chris, gave a wonderful sermon that day about sharing our gifts

with others in God’s family. His words really spoke to me.

How can I be sure that I am most effectively using the gifts that I

have been given with my church community? For our On Eagle's

Wings family? Wherever they might be best utilized? Moreover, are

my priorities aligned with God’s?

I have always enjoyed teaching and creativity. Thinking back on my

experiences in Bible Camp many years ago, I remember how life

altering those weeks in the Northwest Territories were for me. I also

remember asking the Holy Spirit to be with me and guide me so that

I didn’t fail in my role as a teacher for so many children in a culture

that was entirely new to me. Fortunately, he was with me the whole

time!

While I may not be able to travel for Bible Camp at this point in my

life, I can share my gifts through participation on the Board of On

Eagle’s Wings. Another way is through teaching my grandchildren

about God and Jesus. When is there a more opportune time to

share with children our hope - and what it means - than in this

special time of preparation for Jesus's birth?



Wendy Cusick

Board of Directors & US Office Volunteer



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to love the Lord with all your heart

and all your mind.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear Jesus, thank You that You're

adding people to Your church daily."



Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord a Song of Praise.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know His Blessings.



Pray to the Lord and pray to HIs relief from anxiety.



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

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



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

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -

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

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

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



Pray a prayer of thanksgiving throughout

the day for God's unfailing love, Mercy, compassion,

faithfulness and provision.



Pray that the Lord will lead the Church in finding ways

to wisely and effectively respond to pressing social issues.



Thank you, Lord, for books, especially the Book, with its

testimony to Jesus as the Christ. Amen.



Pray: Thank you again, Gracious Father, that these two women had

each other. Amen.



Pray: Lord, you have prepared us through Word and sacrament (and though

special people) to be your child. Thank you for the legion of ancestors

with whom you've surrounded us. And empower us to be like John

the Baptist as we help other people to "prepare the way" for you

to come into their lives. In Jesus' name. Amen ... and AH-HA!



Pray: Lord, just as your Holy Spirit has been with us since time began,

may your wisdom and guidance continue to be with me as I seek

assurance that I am utilizing the gifts that you have given me in

accordance with your wishes. Amen.



Pray that Christians who have been forced out of their villages in Laos

for following Christ will not lose heart.



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.

4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Genesis 30:43



The man became exceedingly prosperous and had many sheep

and female servants and male servants and camels and donkeys.



And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle,

and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.



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



When you are anxious



Phil 4:4-7



4 (Php 3:1; Ro 12:12 Rejoice in the Lord always.

Again I will say, rejoice!

5 (Jas 5:8-9) Let everyone come to know your gentleness.

The Lord is at hand.

6 (Eph 6:18; Mt 6:25-33) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything,

by prayer and supplication with gratitude, make your requests known

to God.

7 (Jn 14:27; Col 3:15; Isa 26:3) And the peace of God, which surpasses

all understanding, will protect your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.



4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.

5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication

with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13





9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

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

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

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

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

as we forgive our debtors.

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

but deliver us from evil.

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



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

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

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

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

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

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

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





6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)



The Northern Territories of Canada



Yukon



Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69



In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families

in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,

they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.



Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,

and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.



Northwest Territories (NWT)



NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473



The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.

To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million

Islamic Centre.



Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to

spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.



Nunavut (NU)



NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86



The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed

80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.

Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam

in the far northern reaches of Canada."



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

their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.



Adding further



30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020



Under the Keep Praying page



When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month

and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days

of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that

usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,

of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be

decorated and festivals will be held.

For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the

distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of

Islam.

You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",

which means Blessed Eid!"

Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you

know, and Muslims around the world:

- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions

in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about

unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such

movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three

decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim

relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.



Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,

"What does this mean?"

13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."



Peter's Speech at Pentecost



14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice

and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,

let this be known to you, and listen to my words.

15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,

since it is the third hour of the day.

16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:

17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,

'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;

your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,

your young men shall see visions,

and your old men shall dream dreams.'



- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective

discipleship movements among Muslim people.



- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for

Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.



Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a

hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under

a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the

house."



Ideas for prayer



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

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

Christ among Muslim people -



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

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

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



My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further

call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity



(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)



7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada



http://www.ehc.ca



9th Day of the Month



a) Pray a prayer of thanksgiving throughout

the day for God's unfailing love, Mercy, compassion,

faithfulness and provision.



(

Ps 100



A Psalm of thanksgiving.

1 Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth!

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Serve the Lord with gladness;

come before His presence with singing.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) Know that the Lord, He is God;

it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;

we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,

and into His courts with praise;

be thankful to Him, and bless His name.

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) For the Lord is good; His mercy endures forever,

and His faithfulness to all generations.



Psalm 100



A Psalm of praise.

1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

2 Serve the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing.

3 Know ye that the LORD he is God:

It is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;

We are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And into his courts with praise:

Be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;

And his truth endureth to all generations.



)



b) Pray that the Lord will lead the Church in finding ways

to wisely and effectively respond to pressing social issues.

(

1 Chr 12:32



32 (Est 1:13) From the sons of Issachar,

those having understanding of times

and what Israel should do: two hundred of their captains

with all their brothers at their command.



32 And of the children of Issachar,

which were men that had understanding of the times,

to know what Israel ought to do; the heads of them were two hundred;

and all their brethren were at their commandment



)

Timothy and Epaphroditus



19 (1Co 4:17; Php 1:1) I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy shortly

to you, that I also may be of good comfort when I get word concerning you.

20 (1Co 16:10) For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care

for your welfare.

21 (1Co 10:24; 13:5) For all seek their own, not the things of Christ Jesus.

22 (1Co 4:17; 1Ti 1:2) But you know of his proven worth, that as a son with

a father, he has served with me in the gospel.

23 Therefore I hope to send him soon after my situation is resolved.

24 (Phm 1:22) But I trust in the Lord that I, myself, shall also come shortly.

25 (Php 4:18; Phm 1:1-2; Php 4:3) Yet I thought it necessary to send to you

Epaphroditus, who is my brother and companion in labor, fellow soldier,

your messenger, and he who ministered to my necessity.

26 (Php 1:8) For he longed after you all and was filled with heaviness,

because you heard that he was sick.

27 Indeed he was sick, near death. But God had mercy on him,

and not only on him, but also on me,

lest I should have had sorrow upon sorrow.

28 Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again,

you may rejoice and I may be less sorrowful.

29 (1Co 16:18; Ro 16:2) So receive him in the Lord with all joy.

And hold such ones in high regard,

30 (1Co 16:17; Ac 20:24) because for the work of Christ he was near death,

not regarding his life, endeavouring to make up for your lack of service

toward me.



[19] But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that

I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.

[20] For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

[21] For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

[22] But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath

served with me in the gospel.

[23] Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it

will go with me.

[24] But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.

[25] Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother,

and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that

ministered to my wants.

[26] For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye

had heard that he had been sick.

[27] For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and

not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

[28] I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again,

ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful.

[29] Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in

reputation:

[30] Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding

his life, to supply your lack of service toward me.



Philippians 3



The True Righteousness



1 (Php 4:4; 1Th 5:16) Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write

the same things to you is no trouble to me, and it is reassuring for you.

2 (2Co 11:13; Gal 5:15) Watch out for dogs, watch out for evil workers,

watch out for those who practice mutilation.

3 (Col 2:11; Jude 1:20) For we are the circumcision who worship

God in the Spirit, and boast in Christ Jesus, and place no trust in the flesh,

4 though I also have confidence in the flesh.

If any other man thinks that he has reason to trust in the flesh, I have more:

5 (2Co 11:22; Ro 11:1; Ac 23:6) I was circumcised the eighth day, of the stock

of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, and a Hebrew of Hebrews; as concerning

the law, a Pharisee;

6 (Ac 8:3; 22:3-4) concerning zeal, persecuting the church; and concerning

the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

7 (Lk 14:33) But what things were gain to me, I have counted these things

to be loss for the sake of Christ.

8 (Jn 17:3; 2Pe 1:3) Yes, certainly, I count everything as loss

for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom

I have forfeited the loss of all things and count them as rubbish that

I may gain Christ,

9 (1Co 1:30; Php 3:6; Isa 53:11) and be found in Him, not having my own

righteousness which is from the law, but that which is through faith

in Christ, (Or through the faith of Christ.) the righteousness which is of God

on the basis of faith,

10 (Ro 8:17; 8:29) to know Him, and the power of His resurrection,

and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death,

11 (Ac 26:7) if somehow I might make it to the resurrection of the dead.



[1] Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to

you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

[2] Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.

[3] For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and

rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

[4] Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man

thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:

[5] Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of

Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the law, a Pharisee;

[6] Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness

which is in the law, blameless.

[7] But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

[8] Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the

knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all

things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

[9] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the

law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which

is of God by faith:

[10] That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the

fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

[11] If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.



Pressing Toward the Mark



12 (1Co 13:10; 1Ti 6:19) Not that I have already attained or have already been

perfected, but I follow after it so that I may lay hold of that for which

I was seized by Christ Jesus.

13 (Lk 9:62; Ps 45:10) Brothers, I do not count myself to have attained,

but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind

and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,

14 (Heb 3:1; 1Pe 5:10) I press toward the goal to the prize of the high

calling of God in Christ Jesus.

15 (1Co 2:6; Gal 5:10) Therefore let those of us who are mature be thus

minded. And if you think differently in any way,

God will reveal even this to you.

16 (Gal 6:16) Nevertheless, according to what we have already attained,

let us walk by the same rule, let us be of the same mind.

17 (1Co 4:16; 1Pe 5:3) Brothers, become fellow imitators with me

and observe those who walk according to our example.

18 (Gal 6:12) For many are walking in such a way that they are the enemies

of the cross of Christ. I have told you of them often and tell you again,

even weeping.

19 (Ro 16:18; 2Pe 2:3) Their destination is destruction, their god

is their appetite, their glory is in their shame, their minds

are set on earthly things.

20 (Eph 2:19; 1Co 1:7; Ac 1:11) But our citizenship is in heaven, from

where also we await for our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,

21 (Col 3:4) who will transform our body of humiliation,

so that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working

of His power even to subdue all things to Himself.



[12] Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but

I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended

of Christ Jesus.

[13] Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I

do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those

things which are before,

[14] I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in

Christ Jesus.

[15] Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any

thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

[16] Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same

rule, let us mind the same thing.

[17] Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as

ye have us for an ensample.

[18] (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even

weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

[19] Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is

in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

[20] For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the

Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

[21] Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his

glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue

all things unto himself.



Philippians 4



1 (Php 1:8; 1:27; 1Co 16:13) Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brothers,

my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my beloved.



[1] Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown,

so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.



Exhortations



2 (Php 2:2-3) I exhort Euodia and Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.

3 (Lk 10:20; Php 1:27) I ask you also, true companion, help those women who

labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with my other fellow

laborers, whose names are in the Book of Life.

4 (Php 3:1; Ro 12:12) Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!

5 (Jas 5:8-9) Let everyone come to know your gentleness. The Lord is at hand.

6 (Eph 6:18; Mt 6:25-33) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer

and supplication with gratitude, make your requests known to God.

7 (Jn 14:27; Col 3:15; Isa 26:3) And the peace of God, which surpasses all

understanding, will protect your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

8 (Ac 6:3; 10:22) Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever

things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure,

whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report,

if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think on these things.

9 (Php 3:17; Ro 15:33; Php 4:7) Do those things which you have both learned

and received, and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.



[2] I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind

in the Lord.

[3] And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which

laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my

fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.

[4] Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.

[5] Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

[6] Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication

with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

[7] And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your

hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

[8] Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are

honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever

things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any

virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

[9] Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and

seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

Acknowledgment of the Philippians' Gift



10 (2Co 11:9) I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived

your concern for me. Regarding this, you did care, but you lacked opportunity.

11 (Php 3:8; 1Ti 6:6-9) I do not speak because I have need, for I have learned

in whatever state I am to be content.

12 (2Co 11:27; 11:9) I know both how to face humble circumstances and how to

have abundance. Everywhere and in all things I have learned the secret,

both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

13 (2Co 12:9-10; Eph 3:16) I can do all things because of Christ

who strengthens me.

14 (Php 1:7) Nevertheless you did well having shared in my affliction.

15 (Php 1:5; 2Co 11:8-12) Now you Philippians know also,

that in the beginning of the gospel when I departed from Macedonia,

no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving,

except you alone.

16 (1Th 2:9) Even in Thessalonica, you sent aid once and again for

my necessity,

17 (Titus 3:14) not because I desired a gift, but I desire fruit that

accumulates to your account.

18 (Eph 5:2; Php 2:25-26) But I have everything and abound. I have been

filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you,

like a sweet fragrance, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God.

19 (Ro 2:4) But my God shall supply your every need according

to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

20 (Ro 11:36; Gal 1:4-5) Now to God and our Father be glory forever and ever.

Amen.



[10] But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of

me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked

opportunity.

[11] Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever

state I am, therewith to be content.

[12] I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and

in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to

abound and to suffer need.

[13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

[14] Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my

affliction.

[15] Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when

I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning

giving and receiving, but ye only.

[16] For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

[17] Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your

account.

[18] But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus

the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice

acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

[19] But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory

by Christ Jesus.

[20] Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.



Final Greetings



21 (Gal 1:2) Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me

greet you.

22 (2Co 13:13; Php 1:13) All the saints greet you,

especially those who are of Caesar's household.

23 (Ro 16:20) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.



[21] Salute every saint in Christ Jesus. The brethren which are with me

greet you.

[22] All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household.

[23] The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.



2) Our Daily Bread for 9 December 2029



Being the Church by Anne Cetas



Acts 2:36-47



36 "Therefore, let all the house of Israel assuredly know that God

has made this Jesus, whom you have crucified, both Lord and Christ."

37 (Lk 3:10; Ac 5:33) When they heard this, they were stung in the heart

and said to Peter and to the rest of the apostles,

"Brothers, what shall we do?"

38 (Lk 24:47; Ac 8:12; 22:16) Peter said to them,

"Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ

for the forgiveness of sins, and you shall receive the gift

of the Holy Spirit.

39 (Joel 2:32; Isa 44:3) For the promise is to you, and to your children,

and to all who are far away, as many as the Lord our God will call."

40 (Mt 17:17; Dt 32:5) With many other words he testified and exhorted them,

saying, "Be saved from this perverse generation."

41 (Ac 2:37; 2:47) Then those who gladly received his word were baptized,

and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.



[36] Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath

made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

[37] Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said

unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we

do?

[38] Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in

the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the

gift of the Holy Ghost.

[39] For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are

afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

[40] And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save

yourselves from this untoward generation.

[41] Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day

there were added unto them about three thousand souls.



Life Among the Believers



42 (Ac 1:14; 20:7; 2:46) They continued steadfastly in the apostles'

teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers.

43 Fear came to every soul. And many wonders and signs were done through

the apostles.

44 (Ac 4:32) All who believed were together and had all things in common.

45 They sold their property and goods and distributed them to all,

according to their need.

46 (Ac 5:42; 20:7) And continuing daily with one mind in the temple,

and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness

and simplicity of heart,

47 (Ac 11:24; 2:41) praising God and having favor with all the people.

And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.



[42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,

and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

[43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by

the apostles.

[44] And all that believed were together, and had all things common;

[45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as

every man had need.

[46] And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking

bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness

of heart,

[47] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added

to the church daily such as should be saved.



On a sunny afternoon, I drew with sidewalk chalk with the Sudanese family next

door. We could hear singing coming from the house next to theirs, where a

small group holds worship services. The young mom I was talking with was

curious about what was going on, so she and I walked over and listened in.

They invited us to gather with them. A young man, standing in a tank filled

with water for baptism, spoke about receiving forgiveness for his sins

and committing himself to follow Jesus.



This was a unique opportunity for us to hear a testimony of salvation in the

yard right next door. This group was being the church in our neighbourhood.



Jesus is building His church around the world. In the days before His

ascension, He told His followers that He would send the Spirit to live in them

and that they would be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). He

would build His church through their Spirit-empowered preaching and teaching.

And immediately God began to add "to their number

daily those who were being saved" (2:47).



We can be a part of building Christ's church by being His church as we live

out our faith in our neighborhoods and share with others what He's done for

us. He gave His life and was resurrected so that we might be forgiven

and have eternal life. And He'll help us learn how to serve others

in His church today.



Reflect & Pray



In what ways might God be using you to build Jesus' church?

What more might you do?



Dear Jesus, thank You that You're adding people to Your church daily.



Discover more about Acts 2 by

reading Fulfillment, Foundation, and Foreshadowing.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 3 The song of Exaltation



Exodus 15:2



2 The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.

He is my God, and I will praise Him; my father's God, and I will exalt Him.



2 The LORD is my strength and song, And he is become my salvation:

He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation;

My father's God, and I will exalt him.



The world is full of music that communicates human emotion:

love, joy, sadness, separation.

A love song makes us misty-eyed; a song of protest arouses anger; a song

describing loss stimulates feelings of hurt and abandonment.

Music is a powerful force to sway the human spirit.

Exodus 15:2 indicates that God should be the source of the songs in our hearts.

Human emotions vacillate; human relationships disappoint,

but God is our "strength" and our "song".

To exalt the Lord includes many different type of "songs".

"I can't carry a tune in a bucket," one woman complained.

"How can I sing to the Lord anything that will be pleasing to him?"

But the Lord does not delight in the professionalism of our songs,

but in the motivation of our hearts. We can "sing to the Lord"

when we enjoy a Bach organ piece played for his glory.

We can exalt him in the words of Scripture - either remembered or sung.

We can worship him by enjoying the songs of others.

The key to making the Lord our song is exaltation. When our thoughts

lift him up in praise, we are singing a song of exaltation to the Lord.

When God is exalted in our songs, in our hearts, and in our thoughts,

that focus gives strength to our lives. We can face the difficulties

that are an inevitable part of experience,

because God is our "strength and our song".



Application



a) What is the difference between a song that is professionally performed

and one that exalts the Lord?



b) What practical steps can I take to

make my daily life a "song of praise" to God?

D) Live a life of Service to others



Philippians 1:25-26



25 (Php 2:24; Ac 20:25) Having this confidence, I know that I shall remain

and continue with you all for your joyful advancement of the faith,

26 (2Co 1:14; 5:12) so that your rejoicing for me may be more abundant

in Jesus Christ when I am in your presence again.



[25] And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with

you all for your furtherance and joy of faith;

[26] That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my

coming to you again.



Conduct Worthy of the Gospel



Based on Philippains 1:27-30



27 (Eph 4:1; Jude 1:3) Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel

of Christ, that whether or not I come and see you, I may hear of your

activities, that you are standing fast in one spirit, with one mind,

striving together for the faith of the gospel.

28 Do not be frightened by your adversaries. This is a sign to them

of their destruction, but of your salvation, and this from God.

29 For to you it was granted on behalf of Christ not only to believe

in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,

30 (Ac 16:19-40; 1Th 2:2) having the same conflict which you saw in me

and now hear is in me.



[27] Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that

whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs,

that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the

faith of the gospel;

[28] And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an

evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.

[29] For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe

on him, but also to suffer for his sake;

[30] Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.



Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel:



a) Standing firm



Philippians 1:27b " I may hear of your

activities, that you are standing fast in one spirit,"



b) Standing together



Philippians 1:27c



"in one spirit, with one mind,"



c) Striving together



Philippians 1:27d "striving together for the faith of the gospel."



Matthew 7:15 "Beware of false prophets who come to you

in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. "



Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but

inwardly they are ravening wolves.



d) Without fear



Philippians 1:28 "Do not be frightened by your adversaries.

This is a sign to them

of their destruction, but of your salvation, and this from God."



e) 2 Gifts



Philippians 1:29-30



"For to you it was granted on behalf of Christ not only to believe

in Him, but also to suffer for His sake,

having the same conflict which you saw in me

and now hear is in me. "





Philippians 2:1-11



Why can't we get along?



What is our foundation?



Philippians 2



Christian Humility and Christ's Humility



1 (2Co 13:14; Col 3:12) If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any

comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercy,

[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,

if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,

2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same

love, being in unity with one mind.

[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of

one accord, of one mind.



2 seats of knowledge exist



Cognitive - we learn facts , concepts and priciples.

Experiential - experiencing what is true



Experiential knowledge wins out over cognitive knowledge



Notice the emotionals words



Philippians 2



1 (2Co 13:14; Col 3:12) If there is any encouragement in Christ, if any

comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any compassion and mercy,

[1] If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,

if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,



A sense of confidence and peace



Comfort and cherish



The sensing of the presence of God.



Tenderness/mercy is something created by the Holy

Spirit at the core of who we are.



Compassion toward others is what spills over from the reality of tenderness.



How do you experience the Spirit of the Lord?



Our experience with God inspires us to:



I ) Be like minded



2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded ...

[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded ...



II) Love sacrificially



2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same

love, ...

[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, ...



III) Be one in spirit and purpose



2 (Jn 3:29; Ro 12:16) then fulfill my joy and be like-minded, having the same

love, being in unity with one mind.

[2] Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of

one accord, of one mind.



Christian Humility and Christ's Humility



3 (Ro 12:10; Gal 5:26) Let nothing be done out of strife or conceit, but in

humility let each esteem the other better than himself.

4 (Ro 15:1) Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also

to the interests of others.

5 (Mt 11:29; Ro 15:3) Let this mind be in you all, which was also in Christ

Jesus,

6 (Jn 5:18; 10:33) who, being in the form of God,

did not consider equality with God something to be grasped.

7 (Mt 20:28; Jn 1:14) But He emptied Himself,

taking upon Himself the form of a servant,

and was made in the likeness of men.

8 (Heb 12:2; Mt 26:39; Jn 10:18) And being found in the form of a man,

He humbled Himself

and became obedient to death,

even death on a cross.

9 (Heb 2:9; Mt 28:18) Therefore God highly exalted Him

and gave Him the name which is above every name,

10 (Mt 28:18) that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11 (Jn 13:13; Ro 14:9) and every tongue should confess

that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.



[3] Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of

mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

[4] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things

of others.

[5] Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

[6] Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with

God:

[7] But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a

servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

[8] And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became

obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

[9] Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which

is above every name:

[10] That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven,

and things in earth, and things under the earth;

[11] And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the

glory of God the Father.



Shining as Lights in the World



12 (2Co 7:15; Php 1:5) Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed,

not only in my presence, but so much more in my absence, work out your

own salvation with fear and trembling.

13 (Heb 13:21; Ezr 1:5) For God is the One working in you, both to will

and to do His good pleasure.

14 (1Pe 4:9; 1Co 10:10) Do all things without murmuring and disputing,

15 (Mt 5:45; Dt 32:5) that you may be blameless and harmless, sons of God,

without fault, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, in which

you shine as lights in the world.

16 (Gal 2:2; 4:11) Hold forth the word of life that I may rejoice

on the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.

17 (Ro 15:16; 2Co 12:15) Yes, and even if I am offered upon the sacrifice

and service of your faith, I take delight and rejoice with you all.

18 For this reason you also take delight and rejoice with me.



[12] Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence

only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear

and trembling.

[13] For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good

pleasure.

[14] Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

[15] That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke,

in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights

in the world;

[16] Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of

Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

[17] Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith,

I joy, and rejoice with you all.

[18] For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

Day 343, 9 December 2025 - 17th Day of Advent



1) Phillipians 1, Phillipians 2, Phillipians 3, Phillipians 4



Philippians 1



Philippians 1:1-3



1 Paul and Timothy, servants of Jesus Christ,

To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi,

with the overseers and deacons:

2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul's Prayer for the Philippians

3 I thank my God for every reminder of you.



1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ,

to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi,

with the bishops and deacons:

2 grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father,

and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Heart of the Apostle

3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,



Philippians 1:3-8



Paul's Prayer for the Philippians



A Heart of Gratitude



3 (Ro 1:8-9; 2Ti 1:3) I thank my God for every reminder of you.

[3] I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,



A heart of Joyful Prayer



4 (Ro 1:9) In every prayer of mine for you all, I have always made requests

with joy,

[4] Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,



A Heart of Belonging



5 (Ac 16:12-40; Php 1:7) due to your fellowship in the gospel from the first

day until now.

[5] For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;



A heart of Assurance



6 (1Co 1:8; Jn 6:29) I am confident of this very thing, that He who began

a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ.

[6] Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work

in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:



A heart of Affection



7 (2Co 7:3; Ac 20:23) It is right for me to think this of you all because

I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonments and in the defense

and confirmation of the gospel, you all are fellow partakers of my grace.

[7] Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you

in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and

confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.



8 (Ro 1:9; 9:1) For God is my witness, how I long after you all with

the affection of Jesus Christ.

[8] For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of

Jesus Christ.





Philippians 1:9-11.



A) God's Love is everything

B) God's love gives us strength to stand



God's love to me - God's love through me.



9 (1Th 3:12; Col 1:9; 3:10) And this I pray, that your love may abound yet

more and more in knowledge and in all discernment,

10 (1Th 3:13; Ro 12:2) that you may approve things that are excellent

so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,



[9] And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in

knowledge and in all judgment;

[10] That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere

and without offence till the day of Christ;



i) Love is the behaviour that is based on the knowledge, understanding

and the truth of God's word - Meet truth, love's best friend

ii) Love is behaviour that is both pure and blameless - Unselfish love



Phillipians 1:11 (Col 1:6; Jn 15:8) being filled with the fruit of

righteousness, which comes through Jesus Christ, for the glory and praise of

God.



[11] Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus

Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.



What about self-pity?

Philippians 1:12-18



A) View of circumstances from God's perspective



Philippians 1:12-14



12 But I want you to know, brothers, that the things which happened to me

have resulted in advancing the gospel,

13 (Php 1:7) so that my imprisonments in Christ have become known throughout

the entire palace guard and to all the rest.

14 And a great many of the brothers in the Lord, having become confident

because of my incarcerations, have dared to speak the word without fear.



[12] But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which

happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;

[13] So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all

other places;

[14] And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are

much more bold to speak the word without fear.



B) Don't worry about the motives of others



Philippians 1:15-17



15 Some indeed are preaching Christ out of envy and strife,

and some also from good will.

16 (Php 1:7) The former preach Christ out of contention, not sincerely,

intending to add trouble to my circumstance.

17 (Php 1:7; 2:3) But the latter preach out of love, knowing

that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.



[15] Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of

good will:

[16] The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add

affliction to my bonds:

[17] But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the

gospel.



Look how the Lord used these circumstances to increase faith.



c) Choose to rejoice



Philippians 1:18



18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth,

Christ is preached. And in this I rejoice.

Indeed, I will rejoice.



[18] What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in

truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.



A) Determine to rejoice



Philippians 1:18d-19



[18] ... and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

[19] For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer,

and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,



18 ... And in this I rejoice.

Indeed, I will rejoice.

19 (2Co 1:11; Ac 16:7) For I know that through your prayer

and the support of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, this will result

in my deliverance.



B) Connect into Community



Philippians 1:20



20 (1Co 6:20; Ro 5:5) Accordingly, it is my earnest expectation and my hope

that I shall be ashamed in nothing, but that with all boldness as always,

so now also, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether it be by life

or by death.



[20] According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I

shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ

shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.



c) Seek to honour Christ ... no matter what



Philippians 1:20-21



20 (1Co 6:20; Ro 5:5) Accordingly, it is my earnest expectation and my hope

that I shall be ashamed in nothing, but that with all boldness as always,

so now also, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether it be by life

or by death.

21 (Gal 2:20) For to me, to continue living is Christ, and to die is gain.



[20] According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I

shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ

shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

[21] For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.



Philippians 1:22-24



22 But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor to me.

Yet I do not know what I shall choose.

23 (2Co 5:8; 2Ti 4:6; Lk 23:43) I am in a difficult position between the two,

having a desire to depart and to be with Christ, which is far better.

24 Nevertheless, to remain in the flesh is more needful for your sake.



[22] But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I

shall choose I wot not.

[23] For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be

with Christ; which is far better:

[24] Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.