Day 137, 17 May 2025



1)2 Samuel 19, 2 Samuel 20, 2 Samuel 21, 1 Chronicles 20:4-8



2 Samuel 19

1 (2Sa 18:5; 18:14) It was reported to Joab that the king was weeping

and mourning over Absalom.

2 The victory that day was turned into mourning for all of the people,

for the people heard that day, "The king is grieving for his son."

3 So the people entered the city by stealth that day, as a people

who have been disgraced steal away when they flee from battle.

4 (2Sa 15:30; 18:33) The king covered his face and called with

a loud voice, "My son Absalom, my son, my son!"

5 Then Joab came to the king in his house and said,

"Today you have shamed the faces of all of your servants

who saved your life today, as well as the lives of your sons and daughters,

the lives of your wives, and the lives of your concubines,

6 by loving those who hated you and hating those who love you.

You have shown today that commanders and servants are nothing to you.

I know that if Absalom were alive instead today and all of us were dead,

then this would be right in your eyes.

7 (Pr 14:28; Ge 34:3) Now go out and speak reassuringly to your servants,

for I swear by the Lord that if you do not go out, no man will stay with you

this night, and this will be worse for you than any calamity that has come

against you from your youth until now."

8 (2Sa 18:24; 18:4) So the king arose and took his seat in the gate,

and the people were all told, "The king is sitting in the gate."

So all the people came before the king, but the children of Israel

had fled, each to his tent.



[1] And it was told Joab, Behold, the king weepeth and mourneth for Absalom.

[2] And the victory that day was turned into mourning unto all the people:

for the people heard say that day how the king was grieved for his son.

[3] And the people gat them by stealth that day into the city, as people

being ashamed steal away when they flee in battle.

[4] But the king covered his face, and the king cried with a loud voice, O

my son Absalom, O Absalom, my son, my son!

[5] And Joab came into the house to the king, and said, Thou hast shamed

this day the faces of all thy servants, which this day have saved thy life,

and the lives of thy sons and of thy daughters, and the lives of thy wives,

and the lives of thy concubines;

[6] In that thou lovest thine enemies, and hatest thy friends. For thou hast

declared this day, that thou regardest neither princes nor servants: for

this day I perceive, that if Absalom had lived, and all we had died this

day, then it had pleased thee well.

[7] Now therefore arise, go forth, and speak comfortably unto thy servants:

for I swear by the LORD, if thou go not forth, there will not tarry one with

thee this night: and that will be worse unto thee than all the evil that

befell thee from thy youth until now.

[8] Then the king arose, and sat in the gate. And they told unto all the

people, saying, Behold, the king doth sit in the gate. And all the people

came before the king: for Israel had fled every man to his tent.



David Returns to Jerusalem



9 (2Sa 15:14; 8:1-14) Now all of the people began to quarrel throughout

all of the tribes of Israel, saying, "The king delivered us from the hand

of our enemies, and he saved us from the hand of the Philistines,

but now he has fled from the land on account of Absalom.

10 But Absalom, whom we anointed over us, has died in battle.

Now why are you idle to bring back the king?"

11 (2Sa 15:29) Then David sent word to Zadok and Abiathar the priests,

saying, "Speak to the elders of Israel, saying, 'Why are you last to bring

the king back to his house when the word of all Israel has come to the king,

to his house?

12 (2Sa 5:1) You are my brother. You are my bone and my flesh.

Why are you last to bring back the king?'

13 (2Sa 17:25; Ru 1:17) Say to Amasa, 'Are you not my bone and my flesh?

May God do to me, and more so, if you are not commander of the army

before me from now on in the place of Joab.' "

14 (Jdg 20:1) He swayed the heart of every man of Judah as though they were

one man, and they sent a message to the king:

"Return, you and all of your servants."

15 (Jos 5:9; 1Sa 11:14-15) So the king returned and came as far as the Jordan,

and Judah came to Gilgal to meet the king and bring the king

across the Jordan.

16 (1Ki 2:8; 2Sa 16:5-13) Shimei the son of Gera, the Benjamite who was

from Bahurim, hastened to go down with the men of Judah to meet King David.

17 (2Sa 9:2; 16:1-4) With him were a thousand men from Benjamin. And Ziba,

the servant of the house of Saul, with his fifteen sons and twenty servants,

rushed down to the Jordan before the king.

18 They crossed the ford to bring the household of the king across

and to do what was pleasing in his eyes.

Shimei the son of Gera fell before the king as he was crossing the Jordan,

19 (1Sa 22:15) and he said to the king, "Do not regard me as guilty, my lord,

or remember how your servant went astray the day when my lord the king

went out from Jerusalem. May the king not take it to heart.

20 (2Sa 16:5) For your servant knows that I have sinned. Therefore, I have

come this day, first from all of the house of Joseph, to go down to meet

my lord the king."

21 (Ex 22:28; 1Sa 26:9) Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered,

"Shall not Shimei be put to death for this,

because he cursed the anointed of the Lord?"

22 (1Sa 11:13; 2Sa 16:10) David said, "What do you sons of Zeruiah

have against me that you should become an adversary to me today?

Should any man in Israel be put to death today?

For do I not know that today I am king over Israel?"

23 (1Ki 2:8-9; 2:37) The king said to Shimei, "You will not die."

The king gave him his oath.

24 Then Mephibosheth the son of Saul went down to meet the king.

He had neither dressed his feet, nor trimmed his mustache, nor washed

his clothes from the day the king left until the day he came back in peace.

25 (2Sa 16:17) When he came from Jerusalem to meet the king, the king

said to him, "Why did you not go with me, Mephibosheth?"

26 He said, "My lord, O king, my servant deceived me. For your servant said,

'I will saddle the mule for myself in order to ride on

it and go with the king,' because your servant is lame.

27 (2Sa 14:17; 14:20) But he has slandered your servant to my lord the king.

Still my lord the king is as the angel of God, so do what seems best to you.

28 (2Sa 9:13; 9:10) For all my father's house were but dead men

before my lord the king. Yet you set your servant among those who eat

at your table. What right do I have to cry out any more to the king?"

29 The king said to him, "Why do you still speak of your affairs?

I say that you and Ziba shall divide the field."

30 Mephibosheth said to the king, "Let him even take everything,

since my lord the king has come safely to his house."



[9] And all the people were at strife throughout all the tribes of Israel,

saying, The king saved us out of the hand of our enemies, and he delivered

us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he is fled out of the land

for Absalom.

[10] And Absalom, whom we anointed over us, is dead in battle. Now therefore

why speak ye not a word of bringing the king back?

[11] And king David sent to Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, saying, Speak

unto the elders of Judah, saying, Why are ye the last to bring the king back

to his house? seeing the speech of all Israel is come to the king, even to

his house.

[12] Ye are my brethren, ye are my bones and my flesh: wherefore then are ye

the last to bring back the king?

[13] And say ye to Amasa, Art thou not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do

so to me, and more also, if thou be not captain of the host before me

continually in the room of Joab.

[14] And he bowed the heart of all the men of Judah, even as the heart of

one man; so that they sent this word unto the king, Return thou, and all thy

servants.

[15] So the king returned, and came to Jordan. And Judah came to Gilgal, to

go to meet the king, to conduct the king over Jordan.

[16] And Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, which was of Bahurim, hasted

and came down with the men of Judah to meet king David.

[17] And there were a thousand men of Benjamin with him, and Ziba the

servant of the house of Saul, and his fifteen sons and his twenty servants

with him; and they went over Jordan before the king.

[18] And there went over a ferry boat to carry over the king's household,

and to do what he thought good. And Shimei the son of Gera fell down before

the king, as he was come over Jordan;

[19] And said unto the king, Let not my lord impute iniquity unto me,

neither do thou remember that which thy servant did perversely the day that

my lord the king went out of Jerusalem, that the king should take it to his

heart.

[20] For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am

come the first this day of all the house of Joseph to go down to meet my

lord the king.

[21] But Abishai the son of Zeruiah answered and said, Shall not Shimei be

put to death for this, because he cursed the LORD's anointed?

[22] And David said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah, that ye

should this day be adversaries unto me? shall there any man be put to death

this day in Israel? for do not I know that I am this day king over Israel?

[23] Therefore the king said unto Shimei, Thou shalt not die. And the king

sware unto him.

[24] And Mephibosheth the son of Saul came down to meet the king, and had

neither dressed his feet, nor trimmed his beard, nor washed his clothes,

from the day the king departed until the day he came again in peace.

[25] And it came to pass, when he was come to Jerusalem to meet the king,

that the king said unto him, Wherefore wentest not thou with me,

Mephibosheth?

[26] And he answered, My lord, O king, my servant deceived me: for thy

servant said, I will saddle me an ass, that I may ride thereon, and go to

the king; because thy servant is lame.

[27] And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord

the king is as an angel of God: do therefore what is good in thine eyes.

[28] For all of my father's house were but dead men before my lord the king:

yet didst thou set thy servant among them that did eat at thine own table.

What right therefore have I yet to cry any more unto the king?

[29] And the king said unto him, Why speakest thou any more of thy matters?

I have said, Thou and Ziba divide the land.

[30] And Mephibosheth said unto the king, Yea, let him take all, forasmuch

as my lord the king is come again in peace unto his own house.



31 (1Ki 2:7) Now Barzillai the Gileadite had come down from Rogelim

in order to see the king across the Jordan.

32 (1Sa 25:2) Barzillai was very old, eighty years old. But he sustained

the king during his stay in Mahanaim, for he was a very rich man.

33 The king said to Barzillai, "Cross over with me and I will sustain you

with me in Jerusalem."

34 Barzillai said to the king, "How many days are left in my life that

I should go up with the king to Jerusalem?

35 (2Sa 15:33; Ezr 2:65) I am now eighty years old. Can I discern what

is pleasant from what is harmful? Can your servant taste what I eat

and what I drink? Can I still hear the voices of men and women who sing?

Why, then, should your servant be a burden to my lord the king?

36 Your servant is merely crossing over the Jordan with the king.

Why should the king repay me with this reward?

37 (1Ki 2:7; Jer 41:17) Now allow your servant to return, that I may die

in my own city with the grave of my father and my mother.

But here is your servant Kimham. He will cross over with my lord the king.

Do for him what seems best to you."

38 The king said, "Kimham will cross over with me, and I will do for him

what seems best to you. Whatever you require of me, I will do for you."

39 (Ge 31:55; 47:7; Ru 1:14) All of the people crossed over the Jordan.

And when the king had crossed over, the king kissed Barzillai a

nd blessed him and he returned to his own place.

40 The king passed on to Gilgal, and Kimham went on with him;

all of the people of Judah and half of the people of Israel passed

on with the king.

41 (Jdg 8:1; 12:1) Now all of the men of Israel were coming to the king

and said to the king, "Why have our brothers, the men of Judah,

stolen you away and brought the king and his household across the Jordan,

and all of the men of David with him?"

42 (2Sa 19:12) All of the men of Judah answered the men of Israel,

"Because the king is our close relative. Why are you angry over this matter?

Have we eaten at all at the king's expense? Has he given any gift to us?"

43 (2Sa 5:1; Gal 5:20) And the men of Israel answered the men of Judah

and said, "We have ten shares in the king. Therefore we also have more claim

on David than you. Why then did you treat us with contempt?

Were we not the first to advise bringing back our king?"

But the words of the men of Judah were harsher than the words

of the men of Israel.



[31] And Barzillai the Gileadite came down from Rogelim, and went over

Jordan with the king, to conduct him over Jordan.

[32] Now Barzillai was a very aged man, even fourscore years old: and he had

provided the king of sustenance while he lay at Mahanaim; for he was a very

great man.

[33] And the king said unto Barzillai, Come thou over with me, and I will

feed thee with me in Jerusalem.

[34] And Barzillai said unto the king, How long have I to live, that I

should go up with the king unto Jerusalem?

[35] I am this day fourscore years old: and can I discern between good and

evil? can thy servant taste what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more

the voice of singing men and singing women? wherefore then should thy

servant be yet a burden unto my lord the king?

[36] Thy servant will go a little way over Jordan with the king: and why

should the king recompense it me with such a reward?

[37] Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine

own city, and be buried by the grave of my father and of my mother. But

behold thy servant Chimham; let him go over with my lord the king; and do to

him what shall seem good unto thee.

[38] And the king answered, Chimham shall go over with me, and I will do to

him that which shall seem good unto thee: and whatsoever thou shalt require

of me, that will I do for thee.

[39] And all the people went over Jordan. And when the king was come over,

the king kissed Barzillai, and blessed him; and he returned unto his own

place.

[40] Then the king went on to Gilgal, and Chimham went on with him: and all

the people of Judah conducted the king, and also half the people of Israel.

[41] And, behold, all the men of Israel came to the king, and said unto the

king, Why have our brethren the men of Judah stolen thee away, and have

brought the king, and his household, and all David's men with him, over

Jordan?

[42] And all the men of Judah answered the men of Israel, Because the king

is near of kin to us: wherefore then be ye angry for this matter? have we

eaten at all of the king's cost? or hath he given us any gift?

[43] And the men of Israel answered the men of Judah, and said, We have ten

parts in the king, and we have also more right in David than ye: why then

did ye despise us, that our advice should not be first had in bringing back

our king? And the words of the men of Judah were fiercer than the words of

the men of Israel.



2 Samuel 20

Sheba Rebels Against David

1 (1Ki 12:16; Dt 13:13) There happened to be a worthless man there whose name

was Sheba the son of Bikri, a Benjamite. He sounded the trumpet and said,

"We have no share in David,nor do we have an inheritance in the son of Jesse;

every man to his tents, O Israel."

2 So every man of Israel withdrew from following David and followed

after Sheba the son of Bikri, but the men of Judah stayed with their king,

from the Jordan as far as Jerusalem.

3 (2Sa 15:16; 16:21-22) When the king came to his house in Jerusalem,

he took the ten women, the concubines whom he had left to keep

watch over the house, and he placed them in custody. He provided

for them but did not go in to them. They were shut up until the day

of their deaths, living as in widowhood.

4 (2Sa 17:25; 19:13) Then the king said to Amasa, "Summon for me the men

of Judah in three days, then present yourself here."

5 (1Sa 13:8) So Amasa went to summon Judah, but he delayed beyond

the deadline determined for him.

6 (2Sa 11:11; 21:17) So David said to Abishai, "Now Sheba the son of Bikri

will cause more harm for us than Absalom. You take your lord's servants

and pursue after him. Otherwise, he will find fortified cities and escape

from our sight."

7 (2Sa 8:18; 1Ki 1:38) The men of Joab went out after him,

along with the Kerethites, the Pelethites, and all of the warriors;

and they went out from Jerusalem to pursue after Sheba the son of Bikri.

8 (2Sa 2:13; 3:30) When they were at the large stone which is in Gibeon,

Amasa came to meet them. Now Joab was dressed in his battle armor,

and fastened on it was a belt with a sword in its sheath at the waist.

As he went forward, it fell out.

9 Joab said to Amasa, "Is it well with you, my brother?" and he took Amasa

by the beard with his right hand to kiss him.

10 (2Sa 2:23; 3:27) Amasa was not on guard against the sword

in the hand of Joab, and he struck him in the midsection spilling

his entrails on the ground. He died without being struck a second time.

Then Joab and Abishai his brother pursued after Sheba the son of Bikri.

11 (2Sa 20:13) Now one of the young men of Joab stood by him and said,

"Whoever favors Joab and whoever is for David, let him follow Joab."

12 Now Amasa was wallowing in his own blood in the middle of the path.

When the man saw that all of the people stood still, he moved Amasa

from the path to the field and threw a covering over him,

when he observed that everyone who passed by would stop.

13 Once he removed him from the path, all of the men passed by,

following Joab in pursuit of Sheba the son of Bikri.

14 (2Ki 15:29) He passed through all of the tribes of Israel toward

Abel Beth Maakah, also passing by all of the Bikrites. Once assembled,

they also came after him.

15 (2Ki 19:32; Jer 32:24) They came and besieged him in Abel Beth Maakah.

They constructed a siege ramp against the city, standing it against

the rampart. As all of the people who were with Joab were battering

the city wall in order to bring it down,

16 (2Sa 14:2) a wise woman called from the city, "Listen! Listen! Say to Joab,

'Come closer so that I may speak with you.' "

17 When he came near, the woman said, "Are you Joab?" He said, "I am."

She said to him, "Listen to the words of your servant,"

and he said, "I'm listening."

18 She said, "In former times, they would say,

'Let them inquire carefully in Abel,' and thus they would resolve an issue.

19 (1Sa 26:19; 2Sa 21:3) I am a trustworthy and faithful one of Israel.

You are attempting to destroy a city, even a mother, in Israel.

Why do you swallow up the inheritance of the Lord?"

20 Joab responded, "Far be it, far be it from me to swallow up or destroy.

21 That is not true. But a man from the hill country of Ephraim,

Sheba the son of Bikri by name, has lifted his hand against King David.

Only deliver him, and I will depart from the city."

And the woman said to Joab, "His head will be thrown to you over the wall."

22 (2Sa 20:1) The woman, with her wisdom, came to all of the people

in the city, and they cut off the head of Sheba the son of Bikri.

When they threw it to Joab, he blew the horn, and they dispersed

from the city, each going to his own tent.

Joab returned to Jerusalem to the king.



2 Samuel 20

[1] And there happened to be there a man of Belial, whose name was Sheba,

the son of Bichri, a Benjamite: and he blew a trumpet, and said, We have no

part in David, neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse: every man to

his tents, O Israel.

[2] So every man of Israel went up from after David, and followed Sheba the

son of Bichri: but the men of Judah clave unto their king, from Jordan even

to Jerusalem.

[3] And David came to his house at Jerusalem; and the king took the ten

women his concubines, whom he had left to keep the house, and put them in

ward, and fed them, but went not in unto them. So they were shut up unto the

day of their death, living in widowhood.

[4] Then said the king to Amasa, Assemble me the men of Judah within three

days, and be thou here present.

[5] So Amasa went to assemble the men of Judah: but he tarried longer than

the set time which he had appointed him.

[6] And David said to Abishai, Now shall Sheba the son of Bichri do us more

harm than did Absalom: take thou thy lord's servants, and pursue after him,

lest he get him fenced cities, and escape us.

[7] And there went out after him Joab's men, and the Cherethites, and the

Pelethites, and all the mighty men: and they went out of Jerusalem, to

pursue after Sheba the son of Bichri.

[8] When they were at the great stone which is in Gibeon, Amasa went before

them. And Joab's garment that he had put on was girded unto him, and upon it

a girdle with a sword fastened upon his loins in the sheath thereof; and as

he went forth it fell out.

[9] And Joab said to Amasa, Art thou in health, my brother? And Joab took

Amasa by the beard with the right hand to kiss him.

[10] But Amasa took no heed to the sword that was in Joab's hand: so he

smote him therewith in the fifth rib, and shed out his bowels to the ground,

and struck him not again; and he died. So Joab and Abishai his brother

pursued after Sheba the son of Bichri.

[11] And one of Joab's men stood by him, and said, He that favoureth Joab,

and he that is for David, let him go after Joab.

[12] And Amasa wallowed in blood in the midst of the highway. And when the

man saw that all the people stood still, he removed Amasa out of the highway

into the field, and cast a cloth upon him, when he saw that every one that

came by him stood still.

[13] When he was removed out of the highway, all the people went on after

Joab, to pursue after Sheba the son of Bichri.

[14] And he went through all the tribes of Israel unto Abel, and to

Beth-maachah, and all the Berites: and they were gathered together, and went

also after him.

[15] And they came and besieged him in Abel of Beth-maachah, and they cast

up a bank against the city, and it stood in the trench: and all the people

that were with Joab battered the wall, to throw it down.

[16] Then cried a wise woman out of the city, Hear, hear; say, I pray you,

unto Joab, Come near hither, that I may speak with thee.

[17] And when he was come near unto her, the woman said, Art thou Joab? And

he answered, I am he. Then she said unto him, Hear the words of thine

handmaid. And he answered, I do hear.

[18] Then she spake, saying, They were wont to speak in old time, saying,

They shall surely ask counsel at Abel: and so they ended the matter.

[19] I am one of them that are peaceable and faithful in Israel: thou

seekest to destroy a city and a mother in Israel: why wilt thou swallow up

the inheritance of the LORD?

[20] And Joab answered and said, Far be it, far be it from me, that I should

swallow up or destroy.

[21] The matter is not so: but a man of mount Ephraim, Sheba the son of

Bichri by name, hath lifted up his hand against the king, even against

David: deliver him only, and I will depart from the city. And the woman said

unto Joab, Behold, his head shall be thrown to thee over the wall.

[22] Then the woman went unto all the people in her wisdom. And they cut off

the head of Sheba the son of Bichri, and cast it out to Joab. And he blew a

trumpet, and they retired from the city, every man to his tent. And Joab

returned to Jerusalem unto the king.



David's Officials



23 (2Sa 8:16-18) Now Joab was over the entire army of Israel.

Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over the Kerethites and Pelethites.

24 (1Ki 4:3; 12:18) Adoniram was over conscripted labor. Jehoshaphat

the son of Ahilud was secretary.

25 (2Sa 8:17; 1Ki 4:4) Sheva was scribe. Zadok and Abiathar were priests,

26 (2Sa 23:38) and also Ira the Jairite was priest to David.



[23] Now Joab was over all the host of Israel: and Benaiah the son of

Jehoiada was over the Cherethites and over the Pelethites:

[24] And Adoram was over the tribute: and Jehoshaphat the son of Ahilud was

recorder:

[25] And Sheva was scribe: and Zadok and Abiathar were the priests:

[26] And Ira also the Jairite was a chief ruler about David.



2 Samuel 21



David Avenges the Gibeonites



1 (Ge 12:10; Nu 27:21) Now there was a famine in the days of David

for three years, year after year; and David called upon the Lord.

The Lord said, "There is blood guilt upon Saul and upon his house

because he put the Gibeonites to death."

2 So the king summoned the Gibeonites and spoke to them.

Now the Gibeonites were not from the children of Israel.

Instead they were a remnant of the Amorites.

Although the children of Israel had made a pact with them,

Saul attempted to destroy them in his zeal for the people of Israel and Judah.

3 (2Sa 20:19; 1Sa 26:19) David said to the Gibeonites, "What must I do

for you, and with what may I appease you that you may bless the inheritance

of the Lord?"

4 The Gibeonites said to him, "We have no concern for silver or gold from Saul

or his household, nor is it for us to put any man in Israel to death."

He said to them, "What are you saying I should do for you?"

5 (2Sa 21:1) They said to the king, "Regarding the man who put an end to us

and planned to exterminate us from the entire territory of Israel,

6 (1Sa 10:24; 10:26) let seven of his male descendants be handed over to us,

and we will hang them before the Lord at Gibeah of Saul,

the chosen one of the Lord." The king said, "I will hand them over."

7 (1Sa 18:3; 20:8) But the king spared Mephibosheth the son of Jonathan,

the son of Saul on account of the oath of the Lord that was between them,

between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.

8 (1Sa 18:19; 2Sa 3:7) So the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter

of Aiah, Armoni and Mephibosheth, whom she had born to Saul,

and the five sons of Michal the daughter of Saul, whom she had born to Adriel

the son of Barzillai the Meholathite.

9 (Ru 1:22) He delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites,

and they hanged them on the mountain before the Lord;

the seven of them fell together. They were put to death in the first days

of harvest, in the beginning of the barley harvest.

10 (Dt 21:23) Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth and spread it

for herself on the rock, from the beginning of the harvest until the rains

poured on them from heaven. She did not allow the birds of the air to rest

on them by day nor the animals of the field by night.

11 When it was reported to David that which Rizpah the daughter of Aiah,

the concubine of Saul, had done,

12 (Jos 17:11; 1Sa 31:10-13) David went and took the bones of Saul

and the bones of Jonathan his son from the men of Jabesh Gilead

who had secretly taken them from the plaza in Beth Shan,

where the Philistines had hung them the day the Philistines

struck down Saul on Gilboa.

13 He brought up the bones of Saul and the bones of Jonathan his son

from there, and they gathered the bones of those who had been hanged.

14 (Jos 18:28; 2Sa 24:25) They interred the bones of Saul and Jonathan

his son in the land of Benjamin at Zela, in the tomb of Kish, his father.

They did everything that the king commanded.

After that God was entreated regarding the land.



[1] Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after

year; and David inquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, It is for Saul,

and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites.

[2] And the king called the Gibeonites, and said unto them; (now the

Gibeonites were not of the children of Israel, but of the remnant of the

Amorites; and the children of Israel had sworn unto them: and Saul sought to

slay them in his zeal to the children of Israel and Judah.)

[3] Wherefore David said unto the Gibeonites, What shall I do for you? and

wherewith shall I make the atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of

the LORD?

[4] And the Gibeonites said unto him, We will have no silver nor gold of

Saul, nor of his house; neither for us shalt thou kill any man in Israel.

And he said, What ye shall say, that will I do for you.

[5] And they answered the king, The man that consumed us, and that devised

against us that we should be destroyed from remaining in any of the coasts

of Israel,

[6] Let seven men of his sons be delivered unto us, and we will hang them up

unto the LORD in Gibeah of Saul, whom the LORD did choose. And the king

said, I will give them.

[7] But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul,

because of the LORD's oath that was between them, between David and Jonathan

the son of Saul.

[8] But the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she

bare unto Saul, Armoni and Mephibosheth; and the five sons of Michal the

daughter of Saul, whom she brought up for Adriel the son of Barzillai the

Meholathite:

[9] And he delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged

them in the hill before the LORD: and they fell all seven together, and were

put to death in the days of harvest, in the first days, in the beginning of

barley harvest.

[10] And Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took sackcloth, and spread it for her

upon the rock, from the beginning of harvest until water dropped upon them

out of heaven, and suffered neither the birds of the air to rest on them by

day, nor the beasts of the field by night.

[11] And it was told David what Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, the concubine

of Saul, had done.

[12] And David went and took the bones of Saul and the bones of Jonathan his

son from the men of Jabesh-gilead, which had stolen them from the street of

Beth-shan, where the Philistines had hanged them, when the Philistines had

slain Saul in Gilboa:

[13] And he brought up from thence the bones of Saul and the bones of

Jonathan his son; and they gathered the bones of them that were hanged.

[14] And the bones of Saul and Jonathan his son buried they in the country

of Benjamin in Zelah, in the sepulchre of Kish his father: and they

performed all that the king commanded. And after that God was intreated for

the land.



Wars With the Philistines



1Ch 20:4-8



15 (2Sa 5:17; 5:22) Now once again there was a battle between the Philistines

and Israel. So David went down and his servants with him to fight

the Philistines, and David grew weary.

16 (2Sa 21:18; 21:20) Now Ishbi-Benob, who was among the descendants

of the giant and was girded with new weaponry, had a spear weighing

three hundred bronze shekels and had said that he would strike David down.

17 (2Sa 18:3; 1Ki 11:36) But Abishai the son of Zeruiah came to his aid.

He struck down the Philistine and killed him. Then the men of David made

an oath with him, saying, "You shall no longer come out with us to battle,

so that you do not extinguish the lamp of Israel."

18 (1Ch 11:29; 2Sa 21:20) Now afterwards there was again a battle with

the Philistines at Gob. Then Sibbekai the Hushathite struck down Saph,

who was among the descendants of the giant.

19 (1Ch 20:5) Once again, there was a battle with the Philistines at Gob.

On this occasion, -Elhanan the son of Jaare-Oregim the Bethlehemite

struck down Goliath the Gittite, whose spear shaft was like a weaver's beam.

20 (2Sa 21:16; 21:18) Once again, there was war at Gath. There was a man

of stature who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot,

twenty-four in number. Now he also was born to the giant.

21 (1Sa 16:9; 17:10) When he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimeah,

the brother of David, struck him down.

22 (1Ch 20:8) Now these four were born to the giant in Gath,

and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants.





[15] Moreover the Philistines had yet war again with Israel; and David went

down, and his servants with him, and fought against the Philistines: and

David waxed faint.

[16] And Ishbi-benob, which was of the sons of the giant, the weight of

whose spear weighed three hundred shekels of brass in weight, he being

girded with a new sword, thought to have slain David.

[17] But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine,

and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go

no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel.

[18] And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with the

Philistines at Gob: then Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Saph, which was of

the sons of the giant.

[19] And there was again a battle in Gob with the Philistines, where Elhanan

the son of Jaare-oregim, a Bethlehemite, slew the brother of Goliath the

Gittite, the staff of whose spear was like a weaver's beam.

[20] And there was yet a battle in Gath, where was a man of great stature,

that had on every hand six fingers, and on every foot six toes, four and

twenty in number; and he also was born to the giant.

[21] And when he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea the brother of

David slew him.

[22] These four were born to the giant in Gath, and fell by the hand of

David, and by the hand of his servants.



1 CHRONICLES 20



Philistine Giants Killed

2Sa 21:15-22



4 (2Sa 21:18-22) Now after this, when war broke out in Gezer

with the Philistines, Sibbekai of Hushah killed Sippai,

who was one of the descendants of the giants, and they were humbled.

5 (2Sa 21:19) Again there was war with the Philistines, and Elhanan

the son of Jair killed Lahmi, the brother of Goliath the Gittite,

the shaft of whose wooden spear was like a weaver's beam.

6 Yet again there was war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature,

who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, 24 in number;

and he also was descended from the giants.

7 (1Sa 16:9; 1Ch 2:13) When he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea,

David's brother, killed him.

8 These were descended from the giants in Gath,

and they fell by the hand of David and his servants.



[4] And it came to pass after this, that there arose war at Gezer with

the Philistines; at which time Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Sippai,

that was of the children of the giant: and they were subdued.

[5] And there was war again with the Philistines; and Elhanan the son of Jair

slew Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, whose spear staff was like

a weaver's beam.

[6] And yet again there was war at Gath, where was a man of great stature,

whose fingers and toes were four and twenty, six on each hand,

and six on each foot: and he also was the son of the giant.

[7] But when he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea David's brother

slew him.

[8] These were born unto the giant in Gath; and they fell by the hand

of David, and by the hand of his servants.



2) Our Daily Bread for 17 May 2025 Titled

Following God



Proverbs 3:1-8



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.



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.



On my free day in Paris during a visit a few years ago, I had some time

to roam around the famed city by myself before meeting a friend

by the Eiffel Tower for dinner. All was fine until my phone's battery died.

I didn't have a map, so I wasn't sure where I was going, but this city girl

didn't panic. I just continued to walk along the Seine River and kept my

eyes on the towering Eiffel Tower. My plan worked until I got closer

to the landmark, which somehow disappeared behind the surrounding buildings.



I was astonished that such a large structure could be hidden in plain sight! I

finally realised I needed help, so I asked for directions and found my friend.



Life can be so unpredictable. As we face obstacles and challenges in life,

we can ask God for help and direction. Asking Him helps us not get lost along

our journey or be tempted to take detours or to quit. Especially when life

seems hard or confusing, we can turn to God for guidance.



In Proverbs 3:5-6, Solomon encourages his readers by telling them to "trust

in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."



As we seek God's wisdom through prayer and reading the Bible,

He'll guide us. Let's continue to trust Him and follow His lead.



Reflect & Pray



Why is it sometimes hard to follow God?

How can you stay better connected to Him?



Dear God, thank You for leading and guiding me.





Are you walking in the Spirit? Learn more by

reading this excerpt from Guided by the Spirit.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 7 Support System



Deut 33:27



27 (Ge 49:24; Ps 90:1-2) The eternal God is your refuge,

and underneath you are the everlasting arms;

He will drive out the enemy before you,

and will say, "Destroy them."



27 The eternal God is thy refuge,

And underneath are the everlasting arms:

And he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee;

And shall say, Destroy them.



Misty was only 4 when her parents divorced. Her dad moved away,

and the following summer she went with her grandparents to visit him

in his new apartment. In the swimming pool one afternoon, Grandpa stood

Misty on the side of the pool, held out his arm, and called, "Jump!"

But Misty, normally a little fish, suddenly seemed afraid of the water,

and stood trembling on the sidewalk shaking her head.

"Jump, Misty - I'll catch you!"

"Are you sure, Grandpa?"

"Of course I'm sure! Jump!"

But Misty wouldn't jump. Finally Grandpa, a bit irritated, said, "Misty, do

you think I Won't catch you? Do you think I'll just walk away?"

The tears spilled over, and Misty sobbed. "Daddy did!"

Human support systems often fail us. We disappoint those we love, and

are disappointed by them. People simply aren't there for us

when we need them most.

But God promises that with him things are different. He's always there,

always listening, always caring, always ready to support us.

"Underneath his everlasting arms".

Sometimes those arms reach out clothed in flesh, in the warm embrace

of a loved one. Sometimes they support us through the Word, sometimes through

the quiet peace that comes in prayer. Sometimes we are not aware of them

at all, but they still hold us up, supporting, surrounding, loving.

Underneath us are the everlasting arms.



Application



a) Have I ever felt abandoned by someone I loved and depended upon?



b) How have I experienced the faithfulness of God's "Everlasting arms"?



c) Now can this verse help me in times when I feel my supports have given way?



4) Prosperity verses from Kenneth Copeland



Deut 28:11



11 (Dt 28:4; 30:9) The Lord will make you overflow in prosperity,

in the offspring of your body, in the offspring of your livestock,

and in the produce of your ground, in the land which the Lord swore

to your fathers to give you.



11 And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body,

and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land

which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.



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



When you are lonely



1 John 4:16b-18



God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.

17 (1Jn 2:5; 2:28) In this way God's love is perfected in us,

so that we may have boldness on the Day of Judgment, because as He is,

so are we in this world.

18 (Ro 8:15; 2Ti 1:7) There is no fear in love,

but perfect love casts out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.

Whoever fears is not perfect in love.



God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

17 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness

in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.

18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear:

because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer





9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

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

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

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

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

as we forgive our debtors.

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

but deliver us from evil.

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



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

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

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

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

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

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

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



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)



Ontario



Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario



Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000



est Muslim Population 1 001 542



CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,

Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor



Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that

the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most

Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching

from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly

resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques

are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools

are starting.

And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their

advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,

the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour

brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of

"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of

receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town

reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.

Agree in prayer for:



- net network leaders - the need is great

- the development of network leadership teams

- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals

whom God is calling into this ministry.

- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising

believers

- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas

- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love

towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.



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 "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.

18 Even on My menservants and maidservants

I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.

19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:

blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,

and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.

21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]



Footnotes

Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.

- 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!



And



Thank you for praying through the

5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.



"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,

I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to

cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.



Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians

and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the

love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.

One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by

light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.



As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and

confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution

to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.



Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.

Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father

to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.



I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.

God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through

the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom

and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."



13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy

and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,

through the power of the Holy Spirit.



[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that

ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.



ROMANS 15:13



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, ...) .



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



http://www.ehc.ca



17th Day of the Month



a) Pray for the safety of those

who live in your community -

safety from conflict and crimes



( Ps 122:7 - 7 Peace be within your walls

and security within your towers!



7 Peace be within thy walls,

And prosperity within thy palaces.)



b) Pray for the province of Ontario



I) Pray for the leaders of Ontario,

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



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and seek the Lord in every decision you make.



Pray to the Lord: "Dear God, thank You for leading and guiding me."



Pray to the Lord and pray to the Lord Jesus Christ as your support system.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the rewards of obedience to the Lord Jesus

Christ.



Pray to the Lord and pray to knwo the Lord as Love.



Agree in prayer for Ontario:



- get network leaders - the need is great

- the development of network leadership teams

- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals

whom God is calling into this ministry.

- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising

believers

- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas

- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love

towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.



- 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 continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.



Pray for the safety of those who live in your community -

safety from conflict and crimes



Praise GOd for the resilient witness of Pastor Ramesh in India

who was jailed for breaking India's anti-conversion laws.



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

Day 136, 16 May 2025



1) Psalms 26,40,58,61,62,64



Psalms 26



A Psalm of David.

1 Judge me, O Lord,

for I have walked in my integrity.

I have trusted in the Lord;

I will not slip.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Examine me, O Lord, and test me;

try my affections and my heart.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5 ) For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes,

and I have walked in Your truth.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) I have not sat with the worthless,

nor will I go with hypocrites.

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) I have hated the congregation of evildoers,

and will not sit with the wicked.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) I will wash my hands in innocence;

thus I will go around Your altar, O Lord,

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) that I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving,

and tell of all Your wondrous works.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Lord, I have loved the refuge of Your house,

and the place where Your honor dwells.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2 ) Do not gather my soul with sinners,

nor my life with murderers,

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) in whose hands is wickedness,

and their right hand is full of bribes.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) But as for me, I will walk in my integrity;

redeem me and be gracious to me.

12 My foot stands in an even place;

with the congregations I will bless the Lord.



Psalm 26

[1] Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted

also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide.

[2] Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.

[3] For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy

truth.

[4] I have not sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.

[5] I have hated the congregation of evil doers; and will not sit with the

wicked.

[6] I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O

LORD:

[7] That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy

wondrous works.

[8] LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where

thine honour dwelleth.

[9] Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:

[10] In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.

[11] But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be

merciful unto me.

[12] My foot standeth in an even place: in the congregations will I bless

the LORD.



Psalms 40

Ps 70:1-5



For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.



1 I waited patiently for the Lord,

and He turned to me, and heard my cry.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,

out of the miry clay,

and set my feet on a rock,

and established my steps.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He has put a new song in my mouth,

even praise to our God;

many will see it, and fear,

and will trust in the Lord.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Blessed is the man

who places trust in the Lord,

but does not turn toward the proud,

nor those falling away to falsehood.

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) O Lord my God,

You have done many wonderful works,

and Your thoughts toward us

cannot be compared;

if I would declare and speak of them,

they are more than can be numbered.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9 ) Sacrifice and offering You did not desire;

You have opened up my ears to listen.

Burnt offering and sin offering

You have not required.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) Then I said, "Behold, I have come;

in the scroll of the book it is written of me,

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) I delight to do Your will, O my God;

Your law is within my inward parts."

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) I have proclaimed righteousness in the great congregation;

I have not held back my lips,

O Lord, You know.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart;

I have declared Your faithfulness and Your salvation;

I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth

from the great congregation.

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) Do not withhold Your compassion from me, O Lord;

may Your lovingkindness and Your truth always guard me.

12 For innumerable evils have surrounded me;

my iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to look up;

they are more than the hairs of my head

so that my heart fails me.

13 Be pleased, O Lord, to deliver me;

O Lord, make haste to help me.

14 May those seeking to snatch away my life

be ashamed and confounded together;

may those who desire my harm

be driven backward and dishonored.

15 May those who say to me "Aha, aha!"

be appalled on account of their shame.

16 May all those who seek You

rejoice and be glad in You;

may those who love Your salvation say continually,

"The Lord is magnified."

17 But I am poor and needy;

yet the Lord thinks about me.

You are my help and my deliverer;

do not delay, O my God.



Psalm 40

[1] I waited patiently for the LORD; and he inclined unto me, and heard my

cry.

[2] He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and

set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

[3] And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many

shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

[4] Blessed is that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth not

the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies.

[5] Many, O LORD my God, are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and

thy thoughts which are to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto

thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be

numbered.

[6] Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; mine ears hast thou

opened: burnt offering and sin offering hast thou not required.

[7] Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me,

[8] I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

[9] I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not

refrained my lips, O LORD, thou knowest.

[10] I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy

faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and

thy truth from the great congregation.

[11] Withhold not thou thy tender mercies from me, O LORD: let thy

lovingkindness and thy truth continually preserve me.

[12] For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have

taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the

hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me.

[13] Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me: O LORD, make haste to help me.

[14] Let them be ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to

destroy it; let them be driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.

[15] Let them be desolate for a reward of their shame that say unto me, Aha,

aha.

[16] Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as

love thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.

[17] But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my

help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.



Psalms 58

For the Music Director. To the melody of "Do Not Destroy."A Miktam of David.



1 Do you truly speak righteousness, O heavenly gods?

Do you judge uprightly, O earthly men?

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Indeed, in the heart you work wickedness;

you weigh the violence of your hands in the earth.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) The wicked are estranged from the womb onward;

those who speak lies go astray from birth.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Their poison is like the poison of a serpent;

they are like the deaf adder that plugs its ear,

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) and will not listen to the voice of charmers,

even the best and wisest enchanter.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Break their teeth in their mouth, O God;

break out the great teeth of the young lions, O Lord.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) May they melt away as waters which run continually;

when he bends his bow to shoot his arrows, let them be trodden under.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) May they become as a snail that melts as it goes,

like the untimely birth of a woman, may they not see the sun.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Before your pots can feel the thorns- heat, green or burning,

may He sweep them away.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) The righteous will rejoice when he sees the vengeance;

he will wash his feet in the blood of the wicked;

11 (Ps 42:5; 43:5) and people will say,

"Surely there is a reward for the righteous;

surely there is a God who judges on the earth."



Psalm 58

[1] Do ye indeed speak righteousness, O congregation? do ye judge uprightly,

O ye sons of men?

[2] Yea, in heart ye work wickedness; ye weigh the violence of your hands in

the earth.

[3] The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they

be born, speaking lies.

[4] Their poison is like the poison of a serpent: they are like the deaf

adder that stoppeth her ear;

[5] Which will not hearken to the voice of charmers, charming never so

wisely.

[6] Break their teeth, O God, in their mouth: break out the great teeth of

the young lions, O LORD.

[7] Let them melt away as waters which run continually: when he bendeth his

bow to shoot his arrows, let them be as cut in pieces.

[8] As a snail which melteth, let every one of them pass away: like the

untimely birth of a woman, that they may not see the sun.

[9] Before your pots can feel the thorns, he shall take them away as with a

whirlwind, both living, and in his wrath.

[10] The righteous shall rejoice when he seeth the vengeance: he shall wash

his feet in the blood of the wicked.

[11] So that a man shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous:

verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth.



Psalms 61

For the Music Director. With stringed instruments. A Psalm of David.

1 Hear my cry, O God,

attend to my prayer.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) From the end of the earth I will cry to You;

when my heart faints,

lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) For You have been a refuge for me,

and a strong tower from the enemy.

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) I will abide in Your tent forever;

I will seek refuge in the covering of Your wings. Selah

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) For You, O God, have heard my vows;

You have given me the heritage of those who fear Your name.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) May You prolong the king's life,

and may his years be as many generations.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) May he sit enthroned before God forever;

oh, prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Thus will I sing praise to Your name forever,

that I may fulfill my vows day by day.



Psalm 61

[1] Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.

[2] From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is

overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

[3] For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.

[4] I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of

thy wings. Selah.

[5] For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of

those that fear thy name.

[6] Thou wilt prolong the king's life: and his years as many generations.

[7] He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may

preserve him.

[8] So will I sing praise unto thy name for ever, that I may daily perform

my vows.



Psalms 62

For the Music Director. According to Jeduthun. A Psalm of David.

1 My soul waits in silence on God alone;

from Him comes my salvation.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He only is my rock and my salvation;

He is my refuge; I will not be greatly shaken.

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) How long will you attack a man,

to batter him, all of you,

as you would a leaning wall, a tottering fence?

4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) They only conspire to cast him down

from his high position;

they delight in lies,

they bless with their mouth,

but they curse inwardly. Selah

5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) My soul, wait silently for God,

for my hope is from Him.

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) He only is my rock and my salvation;

He is my refuge; I will not be moved.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) In God is my salvation and my glory;

the rock of my strength, and my shelter, is in God.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) Trust in Him at all times;

you people, pour out your heart before Him;

God is a shelter for us. Selah

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) Surely people of low degree are a breath,

and men of high degree are a lie;

if they are placed in the balance,

they are altogether lighter than vapor.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) Do not trust in oppression,

and do not become vain in robbery;

if riches increase,

do not set your heart on them.

11(Ps 42:5; 43:5) God has spoken once,

twice have I heard this:

that power belongs to God.

12 Also to You, O Lord, belongs mercy;

for You render to each one

according to his work.



Psalm 62

[1] Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation.

[2] He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be

greatly moved.

[3] How long will ye imagine mischief against a man? ye shall be slain all

of you: as a bowing wall shall ye be, and as a tottering fence.

[4] They only consult to cast him down from his excellency: they delight in

lies: they bless with their mouth, but they curse inwardly. Selah.

[5] My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.

[6] He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be

moved.

[7] In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my

refuge, is in God.

[8] Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him:

God is a refuge for us. Selah.

[9] Surely men of low degree are vanity, and men of high degree are a lie:

to be laid in the balance, they are altogether lighter than vanity.

[10] Trust not in oppression, and become not vain in robbery: if riches

increase, set not your heart upon them.

[11] God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth

unto God.

[12] Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every

man according to his work.



Psalms 64

For the Music Director. A Psalm of David.

1 Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;

guard my life from dread of the enemy.

2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked,

from the throng of the workers of iniquity;

3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) they sharpen their tongue like a sword,

and bend their bows to shoot their arrows - bitter words,

4Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8 that they may shoot in secret at the blameless;

suddenly they shoot at him and do not fear.

5Ps 42:11; 43:5 They harden themselves in an evil matter;

they talk privately of laying snares;

they say, "Who will see them?"

6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) They devise injustice,

saying "We have perfected a secret plot."

Both the inward thought of man and the heart are deep.

7 (Ps 88:7; Jnh 2:3) But God will suddenly shoot them with an arrow;

they will be wounded.

8 (Job 35:10; Ps 63:6) They will bring ruin on themselves

by their own tongues;

all who see them will flee away.

9 (Ps 38:6; 18:2) All people will fear,

and declare the work of God;

they will wisely consider His deeds.

10 (Ps 42:3; Joel 2:17) The righteous will be glad in the Lord,

and seek refuge in Him,

and all the upright in heart will glory.



Psalms 64

[1] Hear my voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my life from fear of the

enemy.

[2] Hide me from the secret counsel of the wicked; from the insurrection of

the workers of iniquity:

[3] Who whet their tongue like a sword, and bend their bows to shoot their

arrows, even bitter words:

[4] That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at

him, and fear not.

[5] They encourage themselves in an evil matter: they commune of laying

snares privily; they say, Who shall see them?

[6] They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the

inward thought of every one of them, and the heart, is deep.

[7] But God shall shoot at them with an arrow; suddenly shall they be

wounded.

[8] So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that

see them shall flee away.

[9] And all men shall fear, and shall declare the work of God; for they

shall wisely consider of his doing.

[10] The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and shall trust in him; and

all the upright in heart shall glory.



2) Our Daily Bread for 16 May 2025 Titled

The Son of God



Mark 1:1-4



Mark 1:1



1 (Mt 14:33) The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.



[1] The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;



Mark 1:2-4



2 (Mal 3:1; Mt 11:10; Lk 1:76) As it is written in the Prophets:

"Look, I am sending My messenger before Your face,

who will prepare Your way before You." [Mal 3:1].

3 (Mt 3:3) "The voice of one crying in the wilderness:

'Prepare the way of the Lord,

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

4 (Lk 1:77) John came baptizing in the wilderness

and preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.



[2] As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before

thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

[3] The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the

Lord, make his paths straight.

[4] John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of

repentance for the remission of sins.



Recently, my brother Scott acquired our dad's military service records

from World War II. As I studied the pages, there was nothing startling

or shocking - nothing about who Dad was. There were mere facts. Data.

It was interesting to read but ultimately dissatisfying because I

didn't come away feeling like I learned anything new about Dad.



Thankfully, in giving us a record of the life and work of Jesus,

the four gospels are much more than just data. They are descriptions

that reveal who Jesus was in His time on this earth as well as what

He did and said. In Mark's gospel, that record was for the purpose

of proving Mark's thesis statement: "The beginning of the good news

about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God" (1:1). Immediately,

Mark tells us how John the Baptist testified about this Messiah.

John said, "After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps

of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie" (v. 7).

Mark's account makes it clear that Jesus is the Son of God.

As John the disciple adds in his own account of Jesus' life,

"These are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah,

the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name"

(John 20:31).



The evidence of Jesus' life is abundant. These questions remain:

What does He mean to you? How has He changed your life?



Reflect & Pray



What do you think of the evidence of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection?

How might you tell someone about your response to it?



Father, thank You for the clear record of Your Son's life.





Learn more here: https://www.odbm.org/en/personal-relationship-with-god



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 6 Humility and Exaltation



1 Peter 5:6-7



6 (Jas 4:10; Mt 23:12) Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God,

that He may exalt you in due time.

7 (Ps 55:22; 37:5) Cast all your care upon Him, because He cares for you.



6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,

that he may exalt you in due time:

7 casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.



"I was so humble I was given an award for humility," the pastor quipped.

"They gave me a humility plaque - but they had to take it back when I hung it

on my office wall."

Humility is rare among 20th Century Christians. Our pride takes two

seemingly contradictory forms: Self-exaltation and self-denial. But both

focus on self, not on God.

Francois Fenelon, 17th century French archbishop, From his

"Letters of Spiritual Counsel" wrote:

"He who so completely forget himself that he never thinks of self ... is

truly humble. If we had the light to discern it, we should see clearly that

when we think we are humbling ourselves we are exalting ourselves;

when we think we are annihilating ourselves we are seeking out own life."

True humility, as Fenelon implies, means recognising who we are in the light

of who God is. Excess of self-importance and low self-esteem are both

self-centered perspectives; true humility is God-centered.

When we humble ourselves, we become intensely aware of God and less

aware of ourselves. We can focus on his face and get our eyes off our own

image. We can stop worrying about how others perceive us. Such humbling

is difficult - as one 70-year-old saint joked, "It ain't the heat that gets

you, it's the humility." But when we submit to him and fell the weight of the

"Mighty hand of God" upon us, we can forget ourselves, abandon

ourselves to his presence, and cast our cares upon him.



Application



a) What form does my pride usually take - self-exaltation or self-degradation?



b) Why must I humble myself in order for the Lord to lift me up?



c) How can today's verse encourage me when times are tough?





4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Proverbs 10:22



22 The blessing of the Lord makes rich ,and He adds no sorrow with it.



22 The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, And he addeth no sorrow with it.



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



When you are Saddened by Loss



1 Cor 15:35-38,51-57



35 But someone will say, "How are the dead raised up?

With what body do they come?"

36 You fool! What you sow is not made alive unless it dies.

37 When you sow, you do not sow the body that shall be, but a bare kernel,

perhaps of wheat or of some other grain.

38 Then God gives it a body as He pleases, and to each seed its own body.



51 Listen, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall

all be changed.

52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet,

for the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed.

53 For tis corruptible will put on incorruption,

and this mortal will put on immortality.

54 When this corruptible will have put on incorruption,

and this mortal will have put on immortality,

then the saying that is written shall come to pass:

"Death is swallowed up in victory."

55 "O death, where is your sting?

O grave, where is your victory?"

56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law.

57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through

our Lord Jesus Christ!



35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up?

and with what body do they come?

36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die:

37 and that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be,

but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain:

38 but God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him,

and to every seed his own body.



51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall

all be changed,

52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump:

for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible,

and we shall be changed.

53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption,

and this mortal must put on immortality.

54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption,

and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought

to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.

57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through

our Lord Jesus Christ.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

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

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

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

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

as we forgive our debtors.

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

but deliver us from evil.

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



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

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

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

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

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

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

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



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)



Ontario



Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario



Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000



est Muslim Population 1 001 542



CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,

Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor



Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that

the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most

Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching

from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly

resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques

are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools

are starting.

And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their

advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,

the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour

brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of

"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of

receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town

reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.

Agree in prayer for:



- net network leaders - the need is great

- the development of network leadership teams

- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals

whom God is calling into this ministry.

- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising

believers

- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas

- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love

towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.



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 "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.

18 Even on My menservants and maidservants

I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.

19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:

blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,

and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.

21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]



Footnotes

Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.

- 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!



And



Thank you for praying through the

5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.



"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,

I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to

cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.



Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians

and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the

love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.

One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by

light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.



As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and

confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution

to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.



Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.

Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father

to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.



I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.

God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through

the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom

and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."



13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy

and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,

through the power of the Holy Spirit.



[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that

ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.



ROMANS 15:13



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, ...) .



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



http://www.ehc.ca



16th Day of the Month



a) Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false

idea that all moral choices are equal and

without consequences

( John 16:7-8



7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away.

For if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you.

But if I go, I will send Him to you.

8 When He comes, He will convict the world of sin

and of righteousness and of judgment"



7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away:

for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you;

but if I depart, I will send him unto you.

8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,

and of righteousness, and of judgment:



)



b) Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly

of denying God's supremacy



(



John 14:6



6 Jesus said to him,

"I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one comes to the Father except through Me."



6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:

no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.



Rom 3:19-20



19 Now we know that whatever the law says,

it says to those who are under the law,

so that every mouth may be silenced,

and all the world may become accountable to God.

20 Therefore by the works of the law

no flesh will be justified in His sight,

for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.



19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are

under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become

guilty before God.

20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified

in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.



2 Cor 5:10



10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,

that each one may receive his recompense in the body,

according to what he has done,

whether it was good or bad.



10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one

may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done,

whether it be good or bad.



2 Cor 10:5



5 casting down imaginations and every high thing

that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,

bringing every thought into

captivity to the obedience of Christ,



5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against

the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought

to the obedience of Christ;



)

Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray for righteousness and integrity in your life.



Pray to the Lord: "Father, thank You for the clear record of Your Son's life."



Pray to the Lord and pray to truly humble in the eyes of Lord Jesus Christ.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know the Blessings of Lord Christ.



Pray to the Lord and pray to upcoming rature of the Church .



Agree in prayer for Ontario:



- get network leaders - the need is great

- the development of network leadership teams

- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals

whom God is calling into this ministry.

- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising

believers

- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas

- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love

towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.



- 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 continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.



Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false

idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences



Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly

of denying God's supremacy.



Pray that imprisoned Iranian Christians will experience the assurance

of God's presence while behind bars.



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

Day 136, 15 May 2024



1) 2 Samuel 16 , 2 Samual 17, 2 Samuel 18



2 Samuel 16

David and Ziba

1 (1Sa 25:18; 2Sa 15:32) When David had passed a little beyond the summit,

Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of saddled donkeys

carrying two hundred loaves of bread, one hundred clusters of raisins,

one hundred summer fruits, and one skin of wine.

2 (2Sa 17:29; Jdg 10:4) The king said to Ziba, "Why do you have these things?"

Ziba replied, "The donkeys are for the household of the king to ride.

The bread and the summer fruit are for the servants to eat.

The wine is for those who become weary in the wilderness to drink."

3 (2Sa 9:9-10) The king said, "And where is your master's son?"

Ziba said to the king, "He is staying in Jerusalem, for he said,

'Today they will return to me the house of Israel and my father's kingdom.'"

4 Then David said to Ziba, "Everything that belonged to Mephibosheth

is now yours."

Ziba replied, "I bow before you. May I find favor in your sight,

my lord the king."



[1] And when David was a little past the top of the hill, behold, Ziba the

servant of Mephibosheth met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon

them two hundred loaves of bread, and an hundred bunches of raisins, and an

hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.

[2] And the king said unto Ziba, What meanest thou by these? And Ziba said,

The asses be for the king's household to ride on; and the bread and summer

fruit for the young men to eat; and the wine, that such as be faint in the

wilderness may drink.

[3] And the king said, And where is thy master's son? And Ziba said unto the

king, Behold, he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house

of Israel restore me the kingdom of my father.

[4] Then said the king to Ziba, Behold, thine are all that pertained unto

Mephibosheth. And Ziba said, I humbly beseech thee that I may find grace in

thy sight, my lord, O king.



Shimei Curses David



5 (2Sa 3:16; Ex 22:28) When King David came to Bahurim, a man of the family

of the house of Saul came out. His name was Shimei son of Gera, a

nd he came out continuously cursing.

6 He threw stones at David and all of the servants of King David, as well as

all of the people and all of the warriors who were at his right and left.

7 (2Sa 12:9) Shimei said when he cursed: "Come out! Come out!

You bloodthirsty man, you scoundrel!

8 (2Sa 1:16; Jdg 9:24) The Lord has returned upon you all the blood

of the house of Saul, in whose place you have reigned. And the Lord

has given the kingdom into the hand of your son Absalom.

You are taken in your own evil, because you are a man of blood."

9 (Ex 22:28; 2Sa 9:8) Then Abishai the son of Zeruiah said to the king,

"How can this dead dog curse my lord the king!

Let me go over and remove his head."

10 (2Sa 19:22; Ro 9:20) The king responded, "What do you have against me,

sons of Zeruiah? Suppose that he curses because the Lord has said to him,

'Curse David.' Who shall then say, 'Why do you do so?' "

11 David then said to Abishai and to all of his servants, "My son who came

from my own body seeks my life, and now also this Benjamite. Leave him alone

and let him curse if the Lord has so instructed him.

12 (Dt 23:5; Ro 8:28) Perhaps today the Lord will look upon my guilt

and return kindness instead of his cursing."

13 So David and his men continued on the road, and Shimei went along

on the hillside beside them, cursing, throwing stones, and flinging dust

at them as he went.

14 The king and all of the people who were with him arrived at their

destination exhausted, but he refreshed himself there.



[5] And when king David came to Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of

the family of the house of Saul, whose name was Shimei, the son of Gera: he

came forth, and cursed still as he came.

[6] And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and

all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his

left.

[7] And thus said Shimei when he cursed, Come out, come out, thou bloody

man, and thou man of Belial:

[8] The LORD hath returned upon thee all the blood of the house of Saul, in

whose stead thou hast reigned; and the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into

the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold, thou art taken in thy mischief,

because thou art a bloody man.

[9] Then said Abishai the son of Zeruiah unto the king, Why should this dead

dog curse my lord the king? let me go over, I pray thee, and take off his

head.

[10] And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so

let him curse, because the LORD hath said unto him, Curse David. Who shall

then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?

[11] And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son,

which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this

Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden

him.

[12] It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD

will requite me good for his cursing this day.

[13] And as David and his men went by the way, Shimei went along on the

hill's side over against him, and cursed as he went, and threw stones at

him, and cast dust.

[14] And the king, and all the people that were with him, came weary, and

refreshed themselves there.



The Advice of Ahithophel and Hushai



15(2Sa 15:37) Now Absalom and all of the Israelite people entered Jerusalem,

and Ahithophel was with him.

16 (Sa 10:24; 2Ki 11:12) When Hushai the Arkite, the friend of David,

came to Absalom, Hushai said to Absalom, "Long live the king!

Long live the king!"

17 (2Sa 19:25) Then Absalom said to Hushai, "Is this the extent of your

commitment to your friend? Why have you not gone with your friend?"

18 Hushai said to Absalom, "No! For whom the Lord, this people, and all men

of Israel have chosen, his I will be and with him I will remain.

19 (2Sa 15:34) Furthermore, whom shall I serve? Should it not be his son?

As I served your father, so shall I be with you."

20 Absalom said to Ahithophel, "Give your advice. What shall we do?"

21 (2Sa 15:16; 20:3) Ahithophel said to Absalom, "Lie with your father's

concubines, whom he left to watch over the palace. When all Israel hears

that you have made yourself abhorred by your father, then the hands

of all who are with you will be strong."

22 (2Sa 12:11-12; 15:16) So they set up a tent for Absalom on the roof,

and Absalom went in to his father's concubines in the sight of all of Israel.

23 (2Sa 15:12; 17:14) In those days, the advice that Ahithophel gave was as

when one inquired a word from God. Such was all of the advice of Ahithophel,

whether that which he gave to David or to Absalom.



[15] And Absalom, and all the people the men of Israel, came to Jerusalem,

and Ahithophel with him.

[16] And it came to pass, when Hushai the Archite, David's friend, was come

unto Absalom, that Hushai said unto Absalom, God save the king, God save the

king.

[17] And Absalom said to Hushai, Is this thy kindness to thy friend? why

wentest thou not with thy friend?

[18] And Hushai said unto Absalom, Nay; but whom the LORD, and this people,

and all the men of Israel, choose, his will I be, and with him will I abide.

[19] And again, whom should I serve? should I not serve in the presence of

his son? as I have served in thy father's presence, so will I be in thy

presence.

[20] Then said Absalom to Ahithophel, Give counsel among you what we shall

do.

[21] And Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines,

which he hath left to keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou

art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of all that are with thee

be strong.

[22] So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house; and Absalom

went in unto his father's concubines in the sight of all Israel.

[23] And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was

as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of

Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.



2 Samuel 17

1 Ahithophel also said to Absalom, "Let me choose twelve thousand men

so that I may arise and pursue David tonight.

2 (2Sa 16:14; 1Ki 22:31) I will overtake him while he is weary

and weak and strike him with terror; all of the people who are with him

will flee. Then I will strike only the king, 3and I will return all

of the people to you. When all return except the man whom you are seeking,

all of the people will be at peace."

4 The advice pleased Absalom and all of the elders of Israel.

5 So Absalom said, "Summon Hushai the Arkite so that we may hear

what he has to say as well."

6 When Hushai came to Absalom, Absalom said to him, "This is what Ahithophel

had advised. Should we do this thing? If not, you should tell us."

7 Hushai said to Absalom, "At this time, the advice

that Ahithophel has given is not good."

8 (Hos 13:8; 1Sa 16:18) Moreover, Hushai said, "You know that your father

and his men are warriors, and they have been provoked like a bear robbed

of her cubs. Your father is a veteran of warfare. He will not spend the night

with the people.

9 Even now, he has hidden himself in a ravine or some other place,

and when one of them falls in the first attack, whoever hears will say,

'It was a defeat for the people who follow Absalom.-

10 (Jos 2:9-11) Then even the valiant one, whose heart is like that of a lion,

will completely despair, for all of Israel knows

that your father is a warrior, and those who are with him are brave.

11 (Ge 22:17; Jos 11:4) "Therefore my advice is for all of Israel,

from Dan to Beersheba, to be completely gathered to you like

the multitude of the sand along the shoreline and for you to go to battle

in person.

12 We will come upon him in one of the places where he may be found,

and we will fall upon him like the dew upon the ground. Neither he nor

any of the men who are with him will remain, not a single one.

13 If he withdraws into a city, then all of Israel will bring ropes

to that city. We will raze it until it is a valley, until there cannot

be found there even a pebble."

14 (2Sa 15:34; 15:31) Then Absalom and all of the men of Israel said,

"The advice of Hushai the Arkite is better than the advice of Ahithophel."

For the Lord had decided to undermine the prudent advice of Ahithophel,

so that the Lord might bring calamity to Absalom.



[1] Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Let me now choose out twelve

thousand men, and I will arise and pursue after David this night:

[2] And I will come upon him while he is weary and weak handed, and will

make him afraid: and all the people that are with him shall flee; and I will

smite the king only:

[3] And I will bring back all the people unto thee: the man whom thou

seekest is as if all returned: so all the people shall be in peace.

[4] And the saying pleased Absalom well, and all the elders of Israel.

[5] Then said Absalom, Call now Hushai the Archite also, and let us hear

likewise what he saith.

[6] And when Hushai was come to Absalom, Absalom spake unto him, saying,

Ahithophel hath spoken after this manner: shall we do after his saying? if

not; speak thou.

[7] And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given is

not good at this time.

[8] For, said Hushai, thou knowest thy father and his men, that they be

mighty men, and they be chafed in their minds, as a bear robbed of her

whelps in the field: and thy father is a man of war, and will not lodge with

the people.

[9] Behold, he is hid now in some pit, or in some other place: and it will

come to pass, when some of them be overthrown at the first, that whosoever

heareth it will say, There is a slaughter among the people that follow

Absalom.

[10] And he also that is valiant, whose heart is as the heart of a lion,

shall utterly melt: for all Israel knoweth that thy father is a mighty man,

and they which be with him are valiant men.

[11] Therefore I counsel that all Israel be generally gathered unto thee,

from Dan even to Beer-sheba, as the sand that is by the sea for multitude;

and that thou go to battle in thine own person.

[12] So shall we come upon him in some place where he shall be found, and we

will light upon him as the dew falleth on the ground: and of him and of all

the men that are with him there shall not be left so much as one.

[13] Moreover, if he be gotten into a city, then shall all Israel bring

ropes to that city, and we will draw it into the river, until there be not

one small stone found there.

[14] And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the

Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed

to defeat the good counsel of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might

bring evil upon Absalom.



Hushai Warns David to Escape



15 Then Hushai said to Zadok and Abiathar the priests,

"Ahithophel advised Absalom and the elders of Israel to do one thing,

but I advised them to do another thing.

16 (2Sa 15:28) Now quickly send someone to report to David,

'Do not spend the night at the fords of the wilderness,

but instead cross over. Otherwise, the king and all of the people

who are with him will be swallowed up.' "

17 (Jos 15:7; 18:16) Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz were waiting at En Rogel.

A servant girl would go report to them, and they would go report

to King David, because they could not be seen entering the city.

18 (2Sa 3:16; 16:5) But a young man saw them and reported this to Absalom.

So the two of them went quickly and came to the house of a man in Bahurim.

He had a well in his courtyard, and they went down into it.

19 The wife took a covering and spread it over the opening of the well.

Then she scattered grain over it so that nothing could be discerned.

20 (Ex 1:19) The servants of Absalom came to the woman at the house

and said, "Where are Ahimaaz and Jonathan?"

She said, "They crossed over the brook of water." When they searched,

they could not find them. So they returned to Jerusalem.

21 (2Sa 17:15-16) After they left, they came up from the well, went,

and reported to King David. They said to David, "Arise and quickly cross over

the water because thus has Ahithophel advised against you"

22 So David and all of the people who were with him arose and crossed

over the Jordan. By daybreak, there was not one left who had not crossed

over the Jordan.

23 (2Sa 15:12; 2Ki 20:1) When Ahithophel realized that his advice

was not followed, he saddled his donkey and returned to his house

in his own city. He gave instruction to his household, then he hanged

himself and died; he was interred in the tomb of his father.



[15] Then said Hushai unto Zadok and to Abiathar the priests, Thus and thus

did Ahithophel counsel Absalom and the elders of Israel; and thus and thus

have I counselled.

[16] Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this

night in the plains of the wilderness, but speedily pass over; lest the king

be swallowed up, and all the people that are with him.

[17] Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by En-rogel; for they might not be seen

to come into the city: and a wench went and told them; and they went and

told king David.

[18] Nevertheless a lad saw them, and told Absalom: but they went both of

them away quickly, and came to a man's house in Bahurim, which had a well in

his court; whither they went down.

[19] And the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and

spread ground corn thereon; and the thing was not known.

[20] And when Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house, they said,

Where is Ahimaaz and Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone

over the brook of water. And when they had sought and could not find them,

they returned to Jerusalem.

[21] And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of

the well, and went and told king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass

quickly over the water: for thus hath Ahithophel counselled against you.

[22] Then David arose, and all the people that were with him, and they

passed over Jordan: by the morning light there lacked not one of them that

was not gone over Jordan.

[23] And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled

his ass, and arose, and gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his

household in order, and hanged himself, and died, and was buried in the

sepulchre of his father.



Absalom's Death



24 (Ge 32:2; 2Sa 2:8) David came to Mahanaim as Absalom crossed the Jordan,

he and every Israelite with him.

25 (2Sa 19:13; 20:9-12) Now Absalom had placed Amasa over the army

in the place of Joab. Now Amasa was the son of a man named Jether

the Ishmaelite, who went in to Abigail the daughter of Nahash

and sister of Zeruiah, the mother of Joab.

26 Israel and Absalom camped in the land of Gilead.

27 (2Sa 9:4; 10:1-2) When David came to Mahanaim, Shobi the son of Nahash

from Rabbah of the Ammonites, Makir the son of Ammiel from Lo Debar,

and Barzillai the Gileadite from Rogelim

28 brought bedding, metal bowls, ceramic vessels, wheat, barley, flour,

roasted grain, beans, lentils,

29 (2Sa 16:2; 16:14) honey, curds, sheep, and cheese from the livestock

for David and the people who were with him to eat and use.

For they said, "The people are hungry, exhausted,

and thirsting in the wilderness."



[24] Then David came to Mahanaim. And Absalom passed over Jordan, he and all

the men of Israel with him.

[25] And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa

was a man's son, whose name was Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail

the daughter of Nahash, sister to Zeruiah Joab's mother.

[26] So Israel and Absalom pitched in the land of Gilead.

[27] And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the

son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of

Ammiel of Lo-debar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim,

[28] Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley,

and flour, and parched corn, and beans, and lentiles, and parched pulse,

[29] And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and

for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is

hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.



2 Samuel 18

1 David mustered the people who were with him, and he set over them

commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds.

2 (Jdg 7:16; 2Sa 15:19-22) Then David dispatched the people, one-third

under the command of Joab, one-third under the command of Abishai

the son of Zeruiah and brother of Joab, and one-third under the command

of Ittai the Gittite. Then David said to the people, "I myself will go out

with you."

3 (2Sa 21:17) But the people said, "You should not go, for if we retreat,

they will not be concerned about us. Even if half of us die,

they will not be concerned about us. But now you are worth ten thousand of us.

Therefore, it would be better to assist us from the city."

4 (2Sa 18:24) The king said to them, "I will do what seems best to you."

So the king stood beside the gate while all of the people went out

by hundreds and thousands.

5 The king commanded Joab, Abishai, and Ittai, "Deal gently

with the young man Absalom." All of the people heard the king instruct

the commanders concerning Absalom.

6 (Jos 17:18; 17:15) So the people went out toward Israel in the field,

but the fighting occurred in the forest of Ephraim.

7 The people of Israel were defeated there by the servants of David.

That day the defeat was extensive, twenty thousand men.

8 The fighting spread across the land, and the people consumed

by the forest were more numerous than those consumed by the sword that day.

9 (2Sa 14:26) Absalom was encountered by some of the servants of David.

Now Absalom was riding on his mule. When the mule went under the branches

of a very large tree, his head was caught in the tree. He was left in midair

while the mule that was under him kept going.

10 One man saw him and reported it to Joab, saying,

"I saw Absalom hanging in a tree."

11 Joab said to the man who was reporting to him, "What? You saw him?

Why did you not strike him on the spot, sending him to the ground?

I would have given you ten shekels [About 4 ounces, or 115 grams.]

of silver and a belt."

12 The man said to Joab, "Not even if I had felt the weight

of a thousand shekels [About 25 pounds, or 12 kilograms.] of silver in

my hand would I have laid a hand on the king's son. In our hearing

the king commanded you, Abishai, and Ittai saying:

Beware lest anyone touch the young man Absalom!

13 (2Sa 14:19-20) Otherwise, I would have worked falsehood

against my own life. For nothing is hidden from the king,

and you yourself would have set yourself against me."

14 Then Joab said, "I will not waste any more time with you."

He took three spears in his hand and thrust them into the heart of Absalom

while he was still alive in the midst of the tree.

15 Then ten young men, armor bearers for Joab, gathered around

and struck down Absalom, killing him.

16 (2Sa 2:28; 20:22) When Joab blew the horn, the people returned

from pursuing Israel, for Joab held back the people.

17 (Jos 7:26; 8:29) Then they took Absalom, disposed of him in a large pit

in the forest, and piled over him a very large heap of stones.

Then all Israel fled, everyone to his home.

18 (1Sa 15:12; Ge 14:17; 2Sa 14:27) Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken

and set up for himself a memorial stone in the Valley of the King,

for he said, "I have no son by whom my name may be remembered."

So he named the memorial stone after himself; and to this day,

it is called the monument of Absalom.



[1] And David numbered the people that were with him, and set captains of

thousands and captains of hundreds over them.

[2] And David sent forth a third part of the people under the hand of Joab,

and a third part under the hand of Abishai the son of Zeruiah, Joab's

brother, and a third part under the hand of Ittai the Gittite. And the king

said unto the people, I will surely go forth with you myself also.

[3] But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away,

they will not care for us; neither if half of us die, will they care for us:

but now thou art worth ten thousand of us: therefore now it is better that

thou succour us out of the city.

[4] And the king said unto them, What seemeth you best I will do. And the

king stood by the gate side, and all the people came out by hundreds and by

thousands.

[5] And the king commanded Joab and Abishai and Ittai, saying, Deal gently

for my sake with the young man, even with Absalom. And all the people heard

when the king gave all the captains charge concerning Absalom.

[6] So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was

in the wood of Ephraim;

[7] Where the people of Israel were slain before the servants of David, and

there was there a great slaughter that day of twenty thousand men.

[8] For the battle was there scattered over the face of all the country: and

the wood devoured more people that day than the sword devoured.

[9] And Absalom met the servants of David. And Absalom rode upon a mule, and

the mule went under the thick boughs of a great oak, and his head caught

hold of the oak, and he was taken up between the heaven and the earth; and

the mule that was under him went away.

[10] And a certain man saw it, and told Joab, and said, Behold, I saw

Absalom hanged in an oak.

[11] And Joab said unto the man that told him, And, behold, thou sawest him,

and why didst thou not smite him there to the ground? and I would have given

thee ten shekels of silver, and a girdle.

[12] And the man said unto Joab, Though I should receive a thousand shekels

of silver in mine hand, yet would I not put forth mine hand against the

king's son: for in our hearing the king charged thee and Abishai and Ittai,

saying, Beware that none touch the young man Absalom.

[13] Otherwise I should have wrought falsehood against mine own life: for

there is no matter hid from the king, and thou thyself wouldest have set

thyself against me.

[14] Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts

in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet

alive in the midst of the oak.

[15] And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote

Absalom, and slew him.

[16] And Joab blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after

Israel: for Joab held back the people.

[17] And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great pit in the wood, and

laid a very great heap of stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to

his tent.

[18] Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself a

pillar, which is in the king's dale: for he said, I have no son to keep my

name in remembrance: and he called the pillar after his own name: and it is

called unto this day, Absalom's place.



David Mourns



19 (2Sa 15:36; 18:31) Then Ahimaaz the son of Zadok said,

"Allow me to run and bring the news to the king that the Lord

has delivered him from the hand of his enemies."

20 But Joab said to him, "You will not be a man who bears news today;

you may bear news another day. Today you will not bear news

because the king's son is dead."

21 Then Joab said to the Cushite, "Go, report to the king what you have seen."

The Cushite bowed to Joab, then ran off.

22 Ahimaaz again said to Joab, "Whatever may happen,

let me run also, after the Cushite."

Then Joab said, "Why is it that you want to run, my son?

There is no messenger's reward for you to obtain."

23 "Whatever happens, I want to run."

So he said to him, "Run." So Ahimaaz ran by way of the plain

and passed the Cushite.

24 (2Sa 19:8) Now David was sitting between the two gates when the watchman

went up to the roof of the gate, to the city wall. He lifted his eyes and

saw a man running by himself.

25 The watchman called and told the king.

The king said, "If he is alone, there is news in his mouth."

And he came ever closer.

26 Then the watchman saw another man running.

The watchman called to the gatekeeper and said,

"Look there is another man running alone."

The king said, "He also is bringing news."

27 (2Ki 9:20; 1Ki 1:42) The watchman said,

"I think that the running of the first one is like the running of Ahimaaz."

The king said, "He is a good man and comes with good news."

28 (Ge 14:20; 2Sa 14:4) Then Ahimaaz called to the king and said,

"All is well." He bowed down to the ground before the king and said,

"Blessed be the Lord your God who has handed over the men who raised

their hand against my lord the king."

29 (2Sa 18:22) The king said, "Is it well for the young man Absalom?"

Ahimaaz said, "I saw a great commotion when Joab sent the servant of the king,

your servant, but I do not know what it was."

30 The king said, "Step aside and stand here." So he stepped aside

and stood in position.

31 (2Sa 18:19) Then the Cushite came and said, "Good news for my lord

the king, for today the Lord has delivered you from those who rose up

against you."

32 (Jdg 5:31; 1Sa 25:26) The king said to the Cushite,

"Is it well for the young man Absalom?"

The Cushite said, "May the enemies of my lord the king and all

who would rise up against you to do harm become as the young man is."

33 (2Sa 19:4) The king was deeply moved and went up to the upper chamber

of the gate and wept. As he went he said, "O my son Absalom, my son,

my son Absalom! If only I could have given my death in your stead,

Absalom, my son, my son!"



[19] Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok, Let me now run, and bear the king

tidings, how that the LORD hath avenged him of his enemies.

[20] And Joab said unto him, Thou shalt not bear tidings this day, but thou

shalt bear tidings another day: but this day thou shalt bear no tidings,

because the king's son is dead.

[21] Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what thou hast seen. And

Cushi bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.

[22] Then said Ahimaaz the son of Zadok yet again to Joab, But howsoever,

let me, I pray thee, also run after Cushi. And Joab said, Wherefore wilt

thou run, my son, seeing that thou hast no tidings ready?

[23] But howsoever, said he, let me run. And he said unto him, Run. Then

Ahimaaz ran by the way of the plain, and overran Cushi.

[24] And David sat between the two gates: and the watchman went up to the

roof over the gate unto the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and

behold a man running alone.

[25] And the watchman cried, and told the king. And the king said, If he be

alone, there is tidings in his mouth. And he came apace, and drew near.

[26] And the watchman saw another man running: and the watchman called unto

the porter, and said, Behold another man running alone. And the king said,

He also bringeth tidings.

[27] And the watchman said, Me thinketh the running of the foremost is like

the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok. And the king said, He is a good

man, and cometh with good tidings.

[28] And Ahimaaz called, and said unto the king, All is well. And he fell

down to the earth upon his face before the king, and said, Blessed be the

LORD thy God, which hath delivered up the men that lifted up their hand

against my lord the king.

[29] And the king said, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Ahimaaz answered,

When Joab sent the king's servant, and me thy servant, I saw a great tumult,

but I knew not what it was.

[30] And the king said unto him, Turn aside, and stand here. And he turned

aside, and stood still.

[31] And, behold, Cushi came; and Cushi said, Tidings, my lord the king: for

the LORD hath avenged thee this day of all them that rose up against thee.

[32] And the king said unto Cushi, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Cushi

answered, The enemies of my lord the king, and all that rise against thee to

do thee hurt, be as that young man is.

[33] And the king was much moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate,

and wept: and as he went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son

Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!



2) Our Daily Bread for 15 May 2025 titled

Such Glorious Knowledge



2 Corinthians 12:1-10



Visions and Revelations



1 (Gal 1:12; 2:2) Doubtless it is not profitable for me to boast.

So I will move on to visions and revelations of the Lord.

2 (2Co 11:11; Ac 22:17) I knew a man in Christ over fourteen years ag

-whether in the body or out of the body I cannot tell, God knows-such

a one was caught up to the third heaven.

3 And I knew that such a man-whether in the body or out of the body I cannot

tell, God knows-

4 (Lk 23:43; Rev 2:7) was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible

words not permitted for a man to say.

5 Of such a person, I will boast. Yet of myself I will not boast, except in

my weaknesses.

6 (2Co 11:16) For if I desire to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be

speaking the truth. But now I resist, lest anyone should think of me above

that which he sees me to be or hears from me.

7 (Nu 33:55; Eze 28:24) And lest I should be exalted above measure

by the abundance of revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh,

a messenger of Satan, to torment me, lest I be exalted above measure.

8 I asked the Lord three times that this thing might depart from me.

9 (Php 4:13; 2Co 12:10; Isa 40:29-31) But He said to me, "My grace is

sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness."

Therefore most gladly I will boast in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ

may rest upon me.

10 (Ro 5:3; 2Co 13:4) So I take pleasure in weaknesses, in reproaches, in

hardships, in persecutions, and in distresses for Christ's sake. For when

I am weak, then I am strong.



[1] It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions

and revelations of the Lord.

[2] I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I

cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such

an one caught up to the third heaven.

[3] And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I

cannot tell: God knoweth;)

[4] How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words,

which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

[5] Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine

infirmities.

[6] For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will

say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that

which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

[7] And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the

revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of

Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

[8] For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.

[9] And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is

made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my

infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

[10] Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in

necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am

weak, then am I strong.



Medieval theologian Thomas Aquinas endured much to dedicate himself to a life

of seeking God. His family imprisoned him for a year in an attempt to

discourage him from joining the Dominican Order, a monastic group dedicated to

a life of simplicity, study, and preaching. After a lifetime of studying

Scripture and creation, and writing nearly one hundred volumes, Aquinas

had such an intense experience of God that he wrote, "I can no longer write,

for God has given me such glorious knowledge that all contained in my works

are as straw." He died only three months later.



The apostle Paul also described an experience from God so overwhelming that it

was impossible to put into words, when he was "caught up to paradise and heard

inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell" (2 Corinthians

12:4). "Because of these surpassingly great revelations," Paul was given an

unidentified "thorn in [his] flesh" (v. 7) to keep him humble and reliant on

God. He was told, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made

perfect in weakness"(v. 9).



The more we understand about God, the more we understand how impossible

it is for us to capture who He is in words. Yet in our weakness

and in our loss for what to say, Christ's grace and beauty shines

clearly through.



Reflect & Pray



What experiences from God do you find impossible to put into words?

How have these experiences changed you?



Thank You, God, for Your beauty and the way

it changes me. Please help me humbly rest in You.



3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation



Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools



Week 7 Promises of Grace - Day 5 The Way Out



1 Cor 10:13



13 (1Co 1:9; 2Pe 2:9) No temptation has taken

you except what is common to man. God is faithful,

and He will not permit you to be tempted above

what you can endure, but will with the temptation

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



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

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

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

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



Becky had experienced some hard knocks in the past few weeks; the stress

was beginning to show, and she wasn't sure she should handle anything else.

"Why me?" Becky wept, covering her face. "I just can't stand it any more!

I can't pay my bills; I just lost my job, and now my car broke down

on the highway. How much more of this can I take?"

Some people seem to have more than their share of trouble and temptation.

Within six months, one family faced financial trouble, cancer, quadruple

bypass surgery, and leukemia; their trials brought them face to face with

anger, bitterness, and despair as well. Other people seem to go through

life with relatively minor stresses and few real temptations to sin.

But whether our problems are great or small, they are part of the common

thread that ties humanity together. All of us face temptation; it is ,

Paul says, "Common to man." But Paul assures us that

"God ... will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear."

Often what we can bear is more that what we think we can bear. God will use

the troubled times in our lives for our maturity in him, but he promises

as well that he will not let temptation break us. He will provide "a way out,"

"a way of escape".

Sometimes the "way out" is true escape, being removed from what caused the

trouble. At other times, rather than being removed from it, we must

withstand the stress, face the temptation, enure the pain. Whether we escape

or endure, God is faithful to provide what we need; we can trust him

not to give us more than we can bear.



Application



a) Have I ever faced more stress or temptation than I thought I could bear?



b) Under what circumstances has God provided an "escape" for me?

When have I had to walk "through" my difficulties?



c) How can today's verse encourage me when times are tough?



4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland



Ps 37:25-26



25 I have been young, and now am old;

yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken,

nor their offspring begging bread.

26 The righteous are gracious and lend,

and their offspring are a source of blessing.



25 I have been young, and now am old;

Yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

26 He is ever merciful, and lendeth; And his seed is blessed.



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



When you are ill or injured



Matthew 8:14-17



The Healing of Many People



Mk 1:29-34; Lk 4:38-41



14 When Jesus entered Peter's house, He saw his wife's mother,

lying sick with a fever.

15 He touched her hand, and the fever left her. And she rose and served them.

16 When the evening came, they brought to Him many

who were possessed with demons.

And He cast out the spirits with His word, and healed all who were sick,

17 to fulfill what was spoken by Isaiah the prophet,

"He Himself took our infirmities

and bore our sicknesses."



[14] And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother

laid, and sick of a fever.

[15] And he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and

ministered unto them.

[16] When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed

with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his word, and healed all that

were sick:

[17] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet,

saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.



Remember God's promises when You pray



The Lord's prayer



Matthew 6:9-13



9 "Therefore pray in this manner:

Our Father who is in heaven,

hallowed be Your name.

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

Your will be done

on earth, as it is in heaven.

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

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

as we forgive our debtors.

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

but deliver us from evil.

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



9 After this manner therefore pray ye:

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

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

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

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

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

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



6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2022 edition?)



Ontario



Quick facts on Muslims in Ontario



Ontario 2015 population 13 687 7000



est Muslim Population 1 001 542



CNMM Networks: Ottawa, Durham, York, Toronto, Mississauga, Halton, Hamilton,

Niagara, Kitchener, London, Windsor



Ontario has 55% of all of Canada's entire Muslim population. This means that

the whole of the Muslim world is represented somewhere in this province. Most

Muslims are understandably located along the southern border stretching

from Windsor eastward all the way up to Ottawa. Yet Muslims are constantly

resettling in more and more suburban and even small towns of Ontario. Mosques

are springing up, and where there are enough gathered, Islamic schools

are starting.

And they're not complacent, either. Many Islamic leaders are energetic in their

advancement of Islam in Canadian society. Recently in the Niagara Region,

the local mosque distributed via Canada Post as many as 50000 full-colour

brochures on Islam. An that mosque's Facebook page proudly show pictures of

"reverts", or white Canadians who have converted to Islam as a result of

receiving the flier and engaging with the mosque community. Another town

reports Muslims going door-to-door evangelism.

Agree in prayer for:



- net network leaders - the need is great

- the development of network leadership teams

- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals

whom God is calling into this ministry.

- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising

believers

- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas

- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love

towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.



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 "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.

18 Even on My menservants and maidservants

I will pour out My Spirit in those days; and they shall prophesy.

19 And I will show wonders in heaven above and signs on the earth below:

blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke. 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness,

and the moon into blood, before that great and glorious day of the Lord comes.

21 And whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved."[a]



Footnotes

Acts 2:21 Joel 2:28-32.

- 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!



And



Thank you for praying through the

5 Days of Prayer for Sikhs.



"My name is Kam. I'm 29 years of age, and I grew up Sikh. As a teenager,

I struggled with depression, brokenness, and addiction to

cannabis. I didn't know how to stop or how to get help.



Then a friend invited me to church. As I spent time with Christians

and heard the message of the Gospel, I experienced the

love of Jesus Christ, and it was like nothing I'd known before.

One night I had a dream where I saw Him - a figure surrounded by

light who I knew was Jesus, the light of the world.



As I began to understand the gospel message, I encountered a reassuring and

confident solution to the problem of sin. I knew that I needed a solution

to my sin problem, and I gave my life to Christ.



Slowly, God began to heal my broken heart and my addiction.

Nine years have passed, and I am a devoted husband and a father

to two beautiful boys. I grow deeper in love with Jesus each day.



I ask you to continue praying with me, and others around the world, for Sikhs.

God is the only one who can draw people to Himself. He works in and through

the prayers of His people. I want Sikhs to know the freedom

and healing that is only available through Jesus Christ."



13 (Ro 14:17; 12:12) Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy

and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope,

through the power of the Holy Spirit.



[13] Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that

ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.



ROMANS 15:13



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, ...) .



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



http://www.ehc.ca



15th Day of the Month



a) Pray for the Lord to convict all Canadians of His Righteous

standards of living (John 16: 8 - 11)



8 "When He comes, He will convict the world of sin

and of righteousness and of judgment:

9 of sin, because they do not believe in Me;

10 of righteousness, because I am going to My Father,

and you will see Me no more;

11 and of judgment, because the ruler of this world stands condemned."



8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,

and of righteousness, and of judgment:

9 of sin, because they believe not on me;

10 of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;

11 of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

)



b) Pray for the province of Nova Scotia



I) Pray for the leaders of Nova Scotia, that God's Spirit would influence

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

( 1 Tim 2:1 - 4

1 Therefore I exhort first of all that you make supplications, prayers,

intercessions, and thanksgivings for everyone,

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

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

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

Savior,

4 (Eze 18:23; 18:32)

who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.



1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers,

intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

2 for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet

and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

4 who will have all men to be saved,

and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.



)



Conclusion:



Pray to the Lord and pray to be an honourable leader in your family.



Pray to the Lord: "Thank You, God, for Your beauty and the way

it changes me. Please help me humbly rest in You."



Pray to the Lord and pray to know The Lord Jesus Christ will not

let you bear temptation alone.



Pray to the Lord and pray to know Lord Jesus Christ

will not forsake the righteous.



Pray to the Lord and pray to Lord Jesus Christ for healing .



Agree in prayer for Ontario:



- get network leaders - the need is great

- the development of network leadership teams

- good connections with local pastors, congregations and individuals

whom God is calling into this ministry.

- wisdom facilitating outreach and training activities for mobilising

believers

- new full and part-time workers among Muslims throughout all these areas

- for pastors and churches to respond not in fear, but full of faith and love

towards Muslims, sharing Jesus with them.



- 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 continually for Sikhs to find Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour.



Pray for the Lord to convict all Canadians of His Righteous

standards of living



Pray for vocational training programmes in Uganda that are supporting

Christians who have been shunned by their families.



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