Day 20
Acts 10:1-4
1 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian Regiment, 2 a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always. 3 About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!”
4 And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?”
So he said to him, “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God.
Once again we switch scenes and this time end up in the house of a pagan, at least what the Jews would have called a pagan. He was a nice pagan. He was a good pagan. He was the kind of man that even the Jews would admire, for a pagan. He respected God. He gave alms. He prayed. And, he was also a man of authority who used his position in such a way that we see that he had a good reputation throughout the nation of Israel.
The man was a man of prayer. We are told that he prayed always, but we are also told that at this particular time he was praying was the ninth hour. If we remember back several chapters we also remember that it was the ninth hour that Peter and John were going up to the temple. It was an hour of prayer. So this man was truly devout and adhered to the Jewish traditions and customs of prayer respected by the most zealous.
It was at this time that Cornelius had a vision. As he prayed he saw an angel. An angel that was sent specifically to him and called him by name. He told him that “Your prayers and your alms have come up for a memorial before God.”
It is not unusual to hear people talk about feeling like their prayers just don’t get through. That they feel as if they are bouncing off the ceiling or as if they had hit a glass ceiling. Perhaps there are times that it feel like nothing gets through. Perhaps that efforts in prayer, service and desire for closeness with God somehow goes ignored or unnoticed. Yet we have encouragement from God’s word that this is not so.
Here is a man suddenly and supernaturally visited by and angel and told that his prayers have been heard. In fact, they are said to have come up for a memorial before God. They have not gone unnoticed. They have not been ignored. They have been saved and remembered as a memorial. As something special and good set up to carefully record, preserve and enshrine.
This is not the only place in scripture that we see this. In Revelation 5, we see the souls under the altar crying for justice from God, yet God tells them wait till the number of martyrs is complete. God has not forgotten. He waits the right time. We also see in Revelation that there are censers to be offered up. They are the prayers of the saints offered to God saved for this time and season. And again in Psalms, the psalmist records that God collects his tears in a bottle and records them in His book.
God has heard. He has remembered. Even this pagan that serves God but has not yet believed in Jesus... his prayers are a memorial before God. He hears the heart of a devout unbeliever. He will certainly hear and remember the prayers of His children. He waits for just the right time. He know just what we need and when we need it. He stores up our prayers for His time, season and glory. We should never be discouraged but pray always knowing that He will remember and answer just as He has promised.
Prayer Requests Day 20
1) Bible Study for Young Families - That we would also see a Bible study start among young families. 1. For at least one person to begin the study with 2. For others then to join to that study 3. For friends, acquaintances and others to be open to attending 4. For wisdom as (hopefully) many of these will have small children
2) Phil & Yvonne - hope to see a Fall Bible Study in Mokronog. There are people that have shown interest but during the summer there have been obstacles to beginning the study. They have already completed a post-abortion study in this town and this study is the outgrowth of that.
3) Nathan and Dawn Detweiler - provision and preparation during their deputation time, timely arrival in Slovenia (planned for early 2009), integration into team, language study, cultural adaptation, grace for life "on field"
4) Jim preaching tomorrow.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Friday, September 7, 2007
30 Days Day 19
Day 19
Acts 9:36-42
36 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. 37 But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord.
As chapter 9 continues we leave Saul’s story for a time and once more meet Peter in his travels. Peter has been traveling through the country, visiting areas and preaching the gospel. He comes to a town and there performs a miracle of healing, the people see it and turn to Jesus.
On hearing that Peter is in the area there are believers in a nearby town that call for him. A woman that had been full of good works and charity has suddenly died. They are heart broken at their loss, but having heard of the mighty miracles that God has done through Peter they hope beyond hope that something might be done.
Peter arrives and is met by the testimony of many as to what a blessing and help Dorcas had been in many lives. Perhaps they are pleading that if anyone would be worthy of such a miracle, surely it would be one like this woman. But Peter puts them out of the room and then he prays. He seeks God’s will ... what would God have him do? He relies not on the recommendations of people but on God.
I wonder what Peter thought at this point. I wonder also what the disciples that had sent for him were thinking. Jesus had risen from the dead. Lazarus had certainly been raised by Jesus. There were others that had been brought back from death to life. However, what could they expect here. Would God raise this dead woman?
How often are we faced with something that is too big for us? How often do we find ourselves in a situation where we see the seemingly impossible? Do we just give up? Do we just given into the natural...the inevitable? That is certainly the temptation. I would certainly have been tempted, in Peter’s shoes, to hold a nice funeral. I might have been tempted to proclaim God’s grace even in the early death of one so dear and such a good witness. She was saved! She is absent from the body but present with the Lord. This is far better for her. Peter prayed. And then having prayed, he called her to rise.
How big is our God? How powerful is He? Is His arm to short to save? Is anything too hard for Him? It is so wonderful for us to know that there is no request that we can bring before God that is too big for Him. There is nothing that is beyond Him. Nothing is too hard for Him! As we come before Him in prayer the power that raises the dead, heals the sick, created the universe and saves the soul also becomes available to us as God directs. We are foolish only if we will not seek Him..will not ask of Him. Nothing is too hard for Him!
Prayer Requests Day 19
1) Yvonne - invited to give 5 min testimony in a Church this Sunday - wisdom what to say in time given
2) Phil - continue to pray for his health. Making some progress on what might be causing the back ache, fell from his bike the other day and is a bit bruised - quick recovery
3) Crisis Pregnancy steering meeting Tuesday 9/11 - pray for more Slovene representatives, community study, wisdom in preparation for the meeting, good progress toward the organization and foundation of the center
4) Possible Fall English Camp - still many questions and details to work out but we hope to see a 2 day Youth English camp in early November - meeting more about this on Tuesday 9/11
5) Student Bible Study - We are praying for a student Bible study to begin this Fall as students return to University. Pray that God would bring all the pieces together 1. Darja - helping us make contacts with students; also pray for her studies at the University 2. Meeting Students open to studying the Bible 3. Student outreach - getting into student dorms for Bible study 4. Finding a regular night mid-week to meet that will be suitable for the most people to attend regularly.
Acts 9:36-42
36 At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. 37 But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. 38 And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. 39 Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. 40 But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41 Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42 And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord.
As chapter 9 continues we leave Saul’s story for a time and once more meet Peter in his travels. Peter has been traveling through the country, visiting areas and preaching the gospel. He comes to a town and there performs a miracle of healing, the people see it and turn to Jesus.
On hearing that Peter is in the area there are believers in a nearby town that call for him. A woman that had been full of good works and charity has suddenly died. They are heart broken at their loss, but having heard of the mighty miracles that God has done through Peter they hope beyond hope that something might be done.
Peter arrives and is met by the testimony of many as to what a blessing and help Dorcas had been in many lives. Perhaps they are pleading that if anyone would be worthy of such a miracle, surely it would be one like this woman. But Peter puts them out of the room and then he prays. He seeks God’s will ... what would God have him do? He relies not on the recommendations of people but on God.
I wonder what Peter thought at this point. I wonder also what the disciples that had sent for him were thinking. Jesus had risen from the dead. Lazarus had certainly been raised by Jesus. There were others that had been brought back from death to life. However, what could they expect here. Would God raise this dead woman?
How often are we faced with something that is too big for us? How often do we find ourselves in a situation where we see the seemingly impossible? Do we just give up? Do we just given into the natural...the inevitable? That is certainly the temptation. I would certainly have been tempted, in Peter’s shoes, to hold a nice funeral. I might have been tempted to proclaim God’s grace even in the early death of one so dear and such a good witness. She was saved! She is absent from the body but present with the Lord. This is far better for her. Peter prayed. And then having prayed, he called her to rise.
How big is our God? How powerful is He? Is His arm to short to save? Is anything too hard for Him? It is so wonderful for us to know that there is no request that we can bring before God that is too big for Him. There is nothing that is beyond Him. Nothing is too hard for Him! As we come before Him in prayer the power that raises the dead, heals the sick, created the universe and saves the soul also becomes available to us as God directs. We are foolish only if we will not seek Him..will not ask of Him. Nothing is too hard for Him!
Prayer Requests Day 19
1) Yvonne - invited to give 5 min testimony in a Church this Sunday - wisdom what to say in time given
2) Phil - continue to pray for his health. Making some progress on what might be causing the back ache, fell from his bike the other day and is a bit bruised - quick recovery
3) Crisis Pregnancy steering meeting Tuesday 9/11 - pray for more Slovene representatives, community study, wisdom in preparation for the meeting, good progress toward the organization and foundation of the center
4) Possible Fall English Camp - still many questions and details to work out but we hope to see a 2 day Youth English camp in early November - meeting more about this on Tuesday 9/11
5) Student Bible Study - We are praying for a student Bible study to begin this Fall as students return to University. Pray that God would bring all the pieces together 1. Darja - helping us make contacts with students; also pray for her studies at the University 2. Meeting Students open to studying the Bible 3. Student outreach - getting into student dorms for Bible study 4. Finding a regular night mid-week to meet that will be suitable for the most people to attend regularly.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
30 Days - Day 18
Day 18
Acts 9:10-18
10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”
And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”
13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”
15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”
17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.
One of the best known stories in Acts has just taken place. An angry Saul on the road to Damascus meets the risen Christ. He is shown how he has been persecuting Jesus. He realizes how wrong he has been even in all his zeal toward the law and his pursuit of religion. Now he is blind and in solitude. He is left to his thoughts and realizations about himself, his life and his relationship to God. He is praying! Perhaps he is praying that so much of his wasted life might be redeemed. He is perhaps praying that he might undo some of the damage he had done to the church through his persecutions of it. He has realized grace and its importance and meaning has not been lost on him. And so he prays and waits for God. He waits for what God has begun to show him awaits him in the coming days and years. He waits for the answers to his prayers and God’s promises.
Across town there is another man. God is speaking to him. He is telling him that he has something for him to do. He wants him to go to a man called Saul. He wants him to lay hands on Saul and heal him. God tells him that Saul is praying! He tells him that Saul has seen a vision of him coming to heal him. Basically, God is telling him that he is an answer to prayer.
What an amazing thing. To be used by God to be an answer to someone’s prayer. Perhaps you have experienced this or heard stories about it. The missionary that arrives in some isolated village or town only to find that he has been long expected and waited for. The person that hears God tell them to take a gallon of milk to a certainly family only to find that they were praying for provision.
Yet often being the answer to someone’s prayer is not an easy thing. Pride, fear or disbelief must often first be overcome. In this passage we see nothing different. Ananias has heard of Saul. Actually he has heard a good bit about Saul and to walk into the house in which he is staying and proclaim that he, as a follower of “the Way”, is here to heal Saul. If he is mistaken, if he has misheard, he will have just earned a one way trip to jail, the whipping post or worse. And so he lays his concerns before the Lord, but God says “go”. Being obedient Ananias goes. In going he becomes an answer to prayer, an encouragement to Saul and an example of obedience. This is an example, which is not lost on Saul. For we see that immediately following Ananias’ act of obedience that Saul also follows with an act of obedience... he is baptized.
We don’t just have the opportunity to pray. We also have the opportunity to be answers to prayer as God directs. However, this often means for us some kind of sacrifice. It might be time. It might be resources. It might be giving up something we want for something far greater (though unseen). It might mean dying to self. It might mean dying to fear and doubt so that we will be obedient. But, in obedience we might just find that we will be an encouragement and example to others as well as a blessing and the answer to someone’s prayer.
Day 18 Prayer Requests
1) Julia - came down with a fever and congestion last night, perhaps a reaction to vaccinations or a virus
2) For Jim as he prepares to preach this Sunday
3) For physical and spiritual protection, health and strength for our family - this week has been more difficult in many ways and we value your prayers on our behalf - that God might be glorified in our weakness
4) For Barbara - Olya helped her with English, student who may be interested in being part of the student Bible study we plan to start in October (may study in Ljubljana or Maribor doesn't know yet).
5) For Darja - will be helping us with the student study - also has a difficult & important exam this coming Monday
Acts 9:10-18
10 Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.”
And he said, “Here I am, Lord.”
11 So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. 12 And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”
13 Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. 14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.”
15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. 16 For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”
17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.
One of the best known stories in Acts has just taken place. An angry Saul on the road to Damascus meets the risen Christ. He is shown how he has been persecuting Jesus. He realizes how wrong he has been even in all his zeal toward the law and his pursuit of religion. Now he is blind and in solitude. He is left to his thoughts and realizations about himself, his life and his relationship to God. He is praying! Perhaps he is praying that so much of his wasted life might be redeemed. He is perhaps praying that he might undo some of the damage he had done to the church through his persecutions of it. He has realized grace and its importance and meaning has not been lost on him. And so he prays and waits for God. He waits for what God has begun to show him awaits him in the coming days and years. He waits for the answers to his prayers and God’s promises.
Across town there is another man. God is speaking to him. He is telling him that he has something for him to do. He wants him to go to a man called Saul. He wants him to lay hands on Saul and heal him. God tells him that Saul is praying! He tells him that Saul has seen a vision of him coming to heal him. Basically, God is telling him that he is an answer to prayer.
What an amazing thing. To be used by God to be an answer to someone’s prayer. Perhaps you have experienced this or heard stories about it. The missionary that arrives in some isolated village or town only to find that he has been long expected and waited for. The person that hears God tell them to take a gallon of milk to a certainly family only to find that they were praying for provision.
Yet often being the answer to someone’s prayer is not an easy thing. Pride, fear or disbelief must often first be overcome. In this passage we see nothing different. Ananias has heard of Saul. Actually he has heard a good bit about Saul and to walk into the house in which he is staying and proclaim that he, as a follower of “the Way”, is here to heal Saul. If he is mistaken, if he has misheard, he will have just earned a one way trip to jail, the whipping post or worse. And so he lays his concerns before the Lord, but God says “go”. Being obedient Ananias goes. In going he becomes an answer to prayer, an encouragement to Saul and an example of obedience. This is an example, which is not lost on Saul. For we see that immediately following Ananias’ act of obedience that Saul also follows with an act of obedience... he is baptized.
We don’t just have the opportunity to pray. We also have the opportunity to be answers to prayer as God directs. However, this often means for us some kind of sacrifice. It might be time. It might be resources. It might be giving up something we want for something far greater (though unseen). It might mean dying to self. It might mean dying to fear and doubt so that we will be obedient. But, in obedience we might just find that we will be an encouragement and example to others as well as a blessing and the answer to someone’s prayer.
Day 18 Prayer Requests
1) Julia - came down with a fever and congestion last night, perhaps a reaction to vaccinations or a virus
2) For Jim as he prepares to preach this Sunday
3) For physical and spiritual protection, health and strength for our family - this week has been more difficult in many ways and we value your prayers on our behalf - that God might be glorified in our weakness
4) For Barbara - Olya helped her with English, student who may be interested in being part of the student Bible study we plan to start in October (may study in Ljubljana or Maribor doesn't know yet).
5) For Darja - will be helping us with the student study - also has a difficult & important exam this coming Monday
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
30 Days - Day 17
Day 17
Acts 8:14-24
14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
20 But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”
24 Then Simon answered and said, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”
As the apostles have been in Samaria they have prayed for the new believers there to be empowered just as they had been at Pentecost. They pray that they would receive power and be witnesses just as they had received power and become witnesses. God answers. But, as has happened before, some only see in this power and the word of God the opportunity for personal recognition and gain for themselves rather than the glory for God.
In this passage we see that in this case it was a man that had long enjoyed the spotlight. He enjoyed the respect and perhaps even fear of the people because of his own abilities, talents and power. But, now he has come to Christ. He has seen a power that, despite all his abilities and prowess, he himself has never known. He is convinced and also believes! However, the pull of his old position and need to be respected still have hold over him. He sees the apostles with an ability he has never had and desires to “be “somebody” again. He offers them money. Seeing his heart, Peter confronts the man and tells him to repent and pray.
As he is harshly rebuked, this former sorcerer begins to fear. He fears judgment. He fears God’s retribution and a power that he cannot stand before. Perhaps he even fears his own heart and the attitudes he sees there. He is totally without confidence before God... if he prays, will God hear him?... will it be of any effect? So he asks, begs, Peter to pray for him.
As we look at this episode we see something of human nature. The difficulty that we can experience in prayer because of sin and failure. It is not that this man could not have approached God and asked for forgiveness. The problem was in his confidence and feeling of failure. His heart had failed him and he was afraid. I find it hard to believe that seeing the fear in this man’s heart that Peter would not have changed his tone and prayed for this man. Justice mixed with and tempered by mercy is a common theme throughout scripture. It is not just this passage but also the story of Job that points to the importance that we have in helping one another to pray in the face of sin and failure.
Job experienced something similar. His friends had hurt him, they had failed him, they had spoken presumptuously about God and so God rebuked them and then sent them to Job to have him pray for them. Job helped them at a point when they were at a low...rebuked by God. It might have been hard for them to pray. THey had thought that they knew God. They had presumed to speak for Him and been rebuffed. However, having someone come alongside of them to help them would have been a great encouragement. It might have helped them not to fall into despair and spiritual morass. It may have encouraged them to live up to the position that they had been given by faith. That kind of love surely would help to cover a multitude of sin.
It also does something else. There has been conflict between brothers. There has been disagreement, there has been confrontation, there has been a rise in emotion and tension and so there were also have been an atmosphere conducive to division and unforgiveness. However, when we pray for and with one another there is also an easing of conflict and there is no question left of whether or not there has been forgiveness. It frees both parties to begin to return to normal relationships with one another as well as encouraging the brother who has failed back to peace with himself and others before God. In praying on another's behalf we just might help a troubled brother or sister in Christ more than we know.
Prayer Requests Day 17
1) The tearing down of spiritual strongholds that keep people apathetic/closed to the gospel
2) Preparing of hearts to seek, hear and respond to the gospel of truth
3) Contact and relationships with those whose hearts God is preparing
4) Maribor - for God to continue to establish ministry through us that will be meaningful, relevant and effective in seeing Bible Studies and eventually a new Churches here
5) Personal and corporate walk with the Lord - growth, praise and worship, guidance
Acts 8:14-24
14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
18 And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, 19 saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
20 But Peter said to him, “Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money! 21 You have neither part nor portion in this matter, for your heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this your wickedness, and pray God if perhaps the thought of your heart may be forgiven you. 23 For I see that you are poisoned by bitterness and bound by iniquity.”
24 Then Simon answered and said, “Pray to the Lord for me, that none of the things which you have spoken may come upon me.”
As the apostles have been in Samaria they have prayed for the new believers there to be empowered just as they had been at Pentecost. They pray that they would receive power and be witnesses just as they had received power and become witnesses. God answers. But, as has happened before, some only see in this power and the word of God the opportunity for personal recognition and gain for themselves rather than the glory for God.
In this passage we see that in this case it was a man that had long enjoyed the spotlight. He enjoyed the respect and perhaps even fear of the people because of his own abilities, talents and power. But, now he has come to Christ. He has seen a power that, despite all his abilities and prowess, he himself has never known. He is convinced and also believes! However, the pull of his old position and need to be respected still have hold over him. He sees the apostles with an ability he has never had and desires to “be “somebody” again. He offers them money. Seeing his heart, Peter confronts the man and tells him to repent and pray.
As he is harshly rebuked, this former sorcerer begins to fear. He fears judgment. He fears God’s retribution and a power that he cannot stand before. Perhaps he even fears his own heart and the attitudes he sees there. He is totally without confidence before God... if he prays, will God hear him?... will it be of any effect? So he asks, begs, Peter to pray for him.
As we look at this episode we see something of human nature. The difficulty that we can experience in prayer because of sin and failure. It is not that this man could not have approached God and asked for forgiveness. The problem was in his confidence and feeling of failure. His heart had failed him and he was afraid. I find it hard to believe that seeing the fear in this man’s heart that Peter would not have changed his tone and prayed for this man. Justice mixed with and tempered by mercy is a common theme throughout scripture. It is not just this passage but also the story of Job that points to the importance that we have in helping one another to pray in the face of sin and failure.
Job experienced something similar. His friends had hurt him, they had failed him, they had spoken presumptuously about God and so God rebuked them and then sent them to Job to have him pray for them. Job helped them at a point when they were at a low...rebuked by God. It might have been hard for them to pray. THey had thought that they knew God. They had presumed to speak for Him and been rebuffed. However, having someone come alongside of them to help them would have been a great encouragement. It might have helped them not to fall into despair and spiritual morass. It may have encouraged them to live up to the position that they had been given by faith. That kind of love surely would help to cover a multitude of sin.
It also does something else. There has been conflict between brothers. There has been disagreement, there has been confrontation, there has been a rise in emotion and tension and so there were also have been an atmosphere conducive to division and unforgiveness. However, when we pray for and with one another there is also an easing of conflict and there is no question left of whether or not there has been forgiveness. It frees both parties to begin to return to normal relationships with one another as well as encouraging the brother who has failed back to peace with himself and others before God. In praying on another's behalf we just might help a troubled brother or sister in Christ more than we know.
Prayer Requests Day 17
1) The tearing down of spiritual strongholds that keep people apathetic/closed to the gospel
2) Preparing of hearts to seek, hear and respond to the gospel of truth
3) Contact and relationships with those whose hearts God is preparing
4) Maribor - for God to continue to establish ministry through us that will be meaningful, relevant and effective in seeing Bible Studies and eventually a new Churches here
5) Personal and corporate walk with the Lord - growth, praise and worship, guidance
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
30 Days - Day 16
Day 16
Acts 8:14-17
14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Just a couple of days ago we were reminded of the importance of praying for one another. The work that God has given us to do must be begun, done and continued in God’s power. Just as the disciples waited for the Holy Spirit in chapter 1 & 2, just as they prayed for the men chosen by the Church in chapter 6, now again in Chapter 8 they come to Samaria to pray for the new believers there.
These people who have become believers heard the truth because of the witness of those from the Church in Jerusalem. Even in the face of the outbreak of persecution these people have been baptized into Christ. The apostles realize that these new disciples need prayer. To ask them to continue in their new faith without the support of prayer and the power of God would have been extremely unfaithful.
When Jesus had come through Samaria on at least one occasion there had also been a great response to the message of Jesus. As the people had come out of the town because of the witness of the woman at the well, Jesus spoke to His disciples and told them to “lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!” There are at least two other places in the gospels that Jesus spoke of looking at a harvest, and when He did he told His disciples to pray. He told them to pray that workers be sent into the fields. That the harvest was plentiful but the laborers few. Many were coming, but all the more pray. Here in Samaria many have been added to the faith and the disciples know that it is only right that they come and pray for these people. Laborers have been added to the harvest and they required prayer, support, encouragement and confirmation in their faith.
There is also another element to be considered here as well. These people were Samaritans. The Jews and Samaritans were brothers and yet they had little love for one another. There was a lot of bad blood between them, literally. The Jews considered them less than pure, and therefore disdained them - wanted minimum contact with them. For the Church leaders to come down and confirm these brothers in the faith, to fellowship with and pray for them might have been a rather unpopular move. Yet, the disciples had seen our Lord’s acceptance of these people and knew that they must come to them and pray for them.
As we pray for people to come to Christ we must be equally concerned about them as they enter into and continue to walk with Christ. This prayer and care for them will require time, effort and involvement on our part. We must also realize then that they join us in the work that Christ has given to us as the Church. We need them and they need us. We are the Body of Christ and we look to Him as the head to guide and empower that His work and will may be done.
Prayer Request Day 16
1) Zoran, Nada & Indi - That Indi would sleep well, for wisdom as they seek to purchase land, for salvation
2) Miro, Mateja, Leah & Enya - Mateja back to teaching, Miro seeking new position at work, Leah & Enya health and growth, salvation
3) Sandra & Ales - expecting first baby in Oct, preparing their home for the new arrival, plan to be married soon, salvation
4) Marko, Jadranka, Usula & Henrik - all back to teaching or school, Ursula begins high school, salvation
5) Kirsten & Friedrick - teaching at the University, raising two little ones, salvation
6) Open doors to reach out to people and share the gospel, prepared and ready hearts, beginning of Bible studies in Maribor
Acts 8:14-17
14 Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, 15 who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. 16 For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. 17 Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.
Just a couple of days ago we were reminded of the importance of praying for one another. The work that God has given us to do must be begun, done and continued in God’s power. Just as the disciples waited for the Holy Spirit in chapter 1 & 2, just as they prayed for the men chosen by the Church in chapter 6, now again in Chapter 8 they come to Samaria to pray for the new believers there.
These people who have become believers heard the truth because of the witness of those from the Church in Jerusalem. Even in the face of the outbreak of persecution these people have been baptized into Christ. The apostles realize that these new disciples need prayer. To ask them to continue in their new faith without the support of prayer and the power of God would have been extremely unfaithful.
When Jesus had come through Samaria on at least one occasion there had also been a great response to the message of Jesus. As the people had come out of the town because of the witness of the woman at the well, Jesus spoke to His disciples and told them to “lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!” There are at least two other places in the gospels that Jesus spoke of looking at a harvest, and when He did he told His disciples to pray. He told them to pray that workers be sent into the fields. That the harvest was plentiful but the laborers few. Many were coming, but all the more pray. Here in Samaria many have been added to the faith and the disciples know that it is only right that they come and pray for these people. Laborers have been added to the harvest and they required prayer, support, encouragement and confirmation in their faith.
There is also another element to be considered here as well. These people were Samaritans. The Jews and Samaritans were brothers and yet they had little love for one another. There was a lot of bad blood between them, literally. The Jews considered them less than pure, and therefore disdained them - wanted minimum contact with them. For the Church leaders to come down and confirm these brothers in the faith, to fellowship with and pray for them might have been a rather unpopular move. Yet, the disciples had seen our Lord’s acceptance of these people and knew that they must come to them and pray for them.
As we pray for people to come to Christ we must be equally concerned about them as they enter into and continue to walk with Christ. This prayer and care for them will require time, effort and involvement on our part. We must also realize then that they join us in the work that Christ has given to us as the Church. We need them and they need us. We are the Body of Christ and we look to Him as the head to guide and empower that His work and will may be done.
Prayer Request Day 16
1) Zoran, Nada & Indi - That Indi would sleep well, for wisdom as they seek to purchase land, for salvation
2) Miro, Mateja, Leah & Enya - Mateja back to teaching, Miro seeking new position at work, Leah & Enya health and growth, salvation
3) Sandra & Ales - expecting first baby in Oct, preparing their home for the new arrival, plan to be married soon, salvation
4) Marko, Jadranka, Usula & Henrik - all back to teaching or school, Ursula begins high school, salvation
5) Kirsten & Friedrick - teaching at the University, raising two little ones, salvation
6) Open doors to reach out to people and share the gospel, prepared and ready hearts, beginning of Bible studies in Maribor
Monday, September 3, 2007
30 Days - Day 15
Day 15
Acts 7:59-60
59 And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Do you have any “final requests”?
As we looked at verse 59 yesterday we saw Stephen’s habit of prayer that in every circumstance he sought God and submitted himself to Him. But today let’s look at Stephen’s requests. What was most on Stephen’s heart as he faced death and brought these “final requests”.
Just recently in a sermon that we were listening to, the pastor was speaking of a friend and fellow pastor, who in answer to the question “hey, where are you going?” will always answer (no matter his current destination) “I’m going to heaven!”. Really though what a great thing to know! Where am I going? Ultimately, I am going to heaven, and ready or not I could go any minute Jesus chooses. I very much doubt that as Stephen woke that morning and went out to his duties as a servant in the church that he knew that he would be going to heaven that day. But now, as he sees heaven opened and the stones begin to fall the first of His requests comes to his lips: “Jesus receive my spirit”. Stephen knew that he was going home! He simply looks to Jesus to welcome him into heaven. He knows where he is going and he has no fear. He knows to be absent from the body is to be present with Jesus. This is no agonizing cry or pleading. This is more a statement of faith. He has confidence in Jesus and his prayer is testimony to all those present not only of his hope and faith, but in the faithfulness of Jesus and his joy in Him. Heaven was not just an idea or concept to Stephen, it was home.
Stephen’s second request probably came as a shock to those hurling stones. For those of us that know Jesus, however, it does not, because it mirrors Christ’s words on the cross. “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” The verse records that he said it in a loud voice! He wanted to make sure they could hear what he was saying. He wanted to make sure that they understood his heart. He says it from his knees. He is pleading for these people. This cry, unlike the first, is pleading. It is pleading to God for these people. For Stephen it had never been about winning theological arguments. It had never been about pride or zealous self-righteousness. It was about serving others and making sure that people heard the good news about Christ. So, with his dying breaths he prays for these people, that they might have the same assurance, understanding and joy that he has, even at the point of death. He understands where he is going and he understands the path they they are on, and this greatly affects the last requests on his lips.
Finally, we notice that this is as much a prayer of forgiveness as it is “final requests”. He shows his heart towards these people. He holds no ill will. He realizes that they have not such much opposed him as they have opposed God and themselves. After all it was never Stephen’s message. It was God’s message. It was never Stephen’s work. It was God’s work. Stephen was simply the ambassador. He was the servant, empowered by the Master with the message and the marching orders. He holds nothing against these men and the injustice they perpetrate on him, but forgives and prays for them.
Prayer Requests Day 15
1) Jim as he prepares to preach on Sunday
2) Student Bible Study - day and time that will be best for those God will bring, people to be a part of the study, outreach to students, open doors in the university and/or dorms, prepared hearts, response to God's word
3) Young family Bible study - for at least 1 person (or a family) to begin with, for prepared open interested hearts, open doors, establishment of a regular study
4) Yvonne Brewer- wisdom whether or not to continue language study at the University or whether time would be more wisely spent elsewhere.
5) Nathan & Dawn Detweiler - for their deputation and preparation to join the work & team
Acts 7:59-60
59 And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” 60 Then he knelt down and cried out with a loud voice, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Do you have any “final requests”?
As we looked at verse 59 yesterday we saw Stephen’s habit of prayer that in every circumstance he sought God and submitted himself to Him. But today let’s look at Stephen’s requests. What was most on Stephen’s heart as he faced death and brought these “final requests”.
Just recently in a sermon that we were listening to, the pastor was speaking of a friend and fellow pastor, who in answer to the question “hey, where are you going?” will always answer (no matter his current destination) “I’m going to heaven!”. Really though what a great thing to know! Where am I going? Ultimately, I am going to heaven, and ready or not I could go any minute Jesus chooses. I very much doubt that as Stephen woke that morning and went out to his duties as a servant in the church that he knew that he would be going to heaven that day. But now, as he sees heaven opened and the stones begin to fall the first of His requests comes to his lips: “Jesus receive my spirit”. Stephen knew that he was going home! He simply looks to Jesus to welcome him into heaven. He knows where he is going and he has no fear. He knows to be absent from the body is to be present with Jesus. This is no agonizing cry or pleading. This is more a statement of faith. He has confidence in Jesus and his prayer is testimony to all those present not only of his hope and faith, but in the faithfulness of Jesus and his joy in Him. Heaven was not just an idea or concept to Stephen, it was home.
Stephen’s second request probably came as a shock to those hurling stones. For those of us that know Jesus, however, it does not, because it mirrors Christ’s words on the cross. “Lord, do not charge them with this sin.” The verse records that he said it in a loud voice! He wanted to make sure they could hear what he was saying. He wanted to make sure that they understood his heart. He says it from his knees. He is pleading for these people. This cry, unlike the first, is pleading. It is pleading to God for these people. For Stephen it had never been about winning theological arguments. It had never been about pride or zealous self-righteousness. It was about serving others and making sure that people heard the good news about Christ. So, with his dying breaths he prays for these people, that they might have the same assurance, understanding and joy that he has, even at the point of death. He understands where he is going and he understands the path they they are on, and this greatly affects the last requests on his lips.
Finally, we notice that this is as much a prayer of forgiveness as it is “final requests”. He shows his heart towards these people. He holds no ill will. He realizes that they have not such much opposed him as they have opposed God and themselves. After all it was never Stephen’s message. It was God’s message. It was never Stephen’s work. It was God’s work. Stephen was simply the ambassador. He was the servant, empowered by the Master with the message and the marching orders. He holds nothing against these men and the injustice they perpetrate on him, but forgives and prays for them.
Prayer Requests Day 15
1) Jim as he prepares to preach on Sunday
2) Student Bible Study - day and time that will be best for those God will bring, people to be a part of the study, outreach to students, open doors in the university and/or dorms, prepared hearts, response to God's word
3) Young family Bible study - for at least 1 person (or a family) to begin with, for prepared open interested hearts, open doors, establishment of a regular study
4) Yvonne Brewer- wisdom whether or not to continue language study at the University or whether time would be more wisely spent elsewhere.
5) Nathan & Dawn Detweiler - for their deputation and preparation to join the work & team
Sunday, September 2, 2007
30 Days - Day 14
Day 14
Acts 7:59
And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Last Sunday we looked at Peter and John coming up to the temple at the 9th hour or the hour of prayer. It was an opportunity to talk a little about commitment to regular times of prayer. Interestingly enough today’s prayer could be considered similar, though the circumstances are totally different. Here what we have is a man, Stephen. He is full of good works. He is filled with the Spirit. He is knowledgeable about scripture and he is habitual in prayer.
Stephen has been preaching the gospel and conflict arises. The problem is (at least for those opposed to Stephen) that He makes too much sense. He has the right answers and no one can contradict him. So what is left to do but trump up some charges. At his sham of a trial Stephen easily counters all charges suggested against him, not by defending himself, but simply by preaching the truth. He shows not only devotion to God but to the authority of the Hebrew scripture. As a result the people are cut to the heart, though unrepentant, and stone him. And we are told that they stone him as he is praying. It wasn't that they started to throw stones and found in this position Stephen cries out to God. No! In fact, it is the other way around. Stephen is in the midst of prayer and then they begin to stone him.
What an awesome habit of prayer, that in such a circumstance he is praying. If it were me I think I would be defending myself. The law, my rights and righteous indignation would probably be on my lips. Stephen has the all the evidence for innocence on his side, yet here is Stephen praying, “Jesus, receive my spirit”. He entrusts himself to a righteous God content to trust His judgment. Paul later said that he had learned to be content in every circumstance. I can’t help wondering if this is where he began learning that. He, as Saul, was here giving approval to these proceedings, but later in life perhaps he understood Stephen’s contentment to rely on the Lord through this habit of prayer displayed at his stoning.
Prayer Requests Day 14
1) For the Churches of Slovenia to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord. That they would proclaim the Gospel. That they would reach out rather than get stuck looking in
2) For Miro and Mateja and their family. We will be celebrating their daughter's B-day with them later today.
3) For the coming week as we prepare for various opportunities - preaching next Sunday, time with friends and acquaintances, various meetings for future opportunities
4) Christian and Julia's health - Christian seems like he might be coming down with a cold
Acts 7:59
And they stoned Stephen as he was calling on God and saying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Last Sunday we looked at Peter and John coming up to the temple at the 9th hour or the hour of prayer. It was an opportunity to talk a little about commitment to regular times of prayer. Interestingly enough today’s prayer could be considered similar, though the circumstances are totally different. Here what we have is a man, Stephen. He is full of good works. He is filled with the Spirit. He is knowledgeable about scripture and he is habitual in prayer.
Stephen has been preaching the gospel and conflict arises. The problem is (at least for those opposed to Stephen) that He makes too much sense. He has the right answers and no one can contradict him. So what is left to do but trump up some charges. At his sham of a trial Stephen easily counters all charges suggested against him, not by defending himself, but simply by preaching the truth. He shows not only devotion to God but to the authority of the Hebrew scripture. As a result the people are cut to the heart, though unrepentant, and stone him. And we are told that they stone him as he is praying. It wasn't that they started to throw stones and found in this position Stephen cries out to God. No! In fact, it is the other way around. Stephen is in the midst of prayer and then they begin to stone him.
What an awesome habit of prayer, that in such a circumstance he is praying. If it were me I think I would be defending myself. The law, my rights and righteous indignation would probably be on my lips. Stephen has the all the evidence for innocence on his side, yet here is Stephen praying, “Jesus, receive my spirit”. He entrusts himself to a righteous God content to trust His judgment. Paul later said that he had learned to be content in every circumstance. I can’t help wondering if this is where he began learning that. He, as Saul, was here giving approval to these proceedings, but later in life perhaps he understood Stephen’s contentment to rely on the Lord through this habit of prayer displayed at his stoning.
Prayer Requests Day 14
1) For the Churches of Slovenia to grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord. That they would proclaim the Gospel. That they would reach out rather than get stuck looking in
2) For Miro and Mateja and their family. We will be celebrating their daughter's B-day with them later today.
3) For the coming week as we prepare for various opportunities - preaching next Sunday, time with friends and acquaintances, various meetings for future opportunities
4) Christian and Julia's health - Christian seems like he might be coming down with a cold
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