Today is the first day back to work after the Thanksgiving holiday. We have three weeks until Christmas holiday (not that I'm counting). I have been so slow in getting everything together today! Maybe I ate too much turkey?! Anyways, I just wanted to note that I'm aware of the shortness of my time this morning, so I will get to what I can, but will finish later today so that I'm not rushing anything. I very much want these times to be meaningful.
Genesis 50- Exodus 2:10
Joseph dies at the end of Genesis and by the beginning of Exodus the Israelites are so numerous in Egypt that the Pharaoh of that time feared their multitude and made them all slaves. He also decreed that all males babies were to be killed. BUT, there was a Levite couple who had a baby boy whom the mother hid as long as she could. Then she placed him in a basket in the reeds and he was found by none other than the Pharaoh's daughter. That's right. It's Moses!
Matthew 16:13-17:9
Jesus begins explaining to His disciples that He will die and rise again. They do not like to hear Him speak of His death. He tells them that they must lose their lives in order to find them, or to gain their souls. Then a couple of the disciples go up on a mountain with Jesus and see him talking with Elijah and Moses. Can you imagine? What must have been going through their heads? Well, at least one of them thought he needed to make tents for the men. But he was put in his place pretty quickly when a voice from the clouds started speaking! Oh, and then Jesus told them not to tell anyone what they had seen. Talk about a secret.
Psalm 21
This is a psalm of rejoicing. The king is acclaiming the power of the Lord.
Proverbs 5:1
These verses give a warning against listening to a "strange woman" and says that "her ways wander, and she does not know it." verse 6 That is a scary thought for me. Anytime a woman is referred to, even if it is just metaphorical, I still think of myself to a certain extent. What's scary is to think that I could be a strange woman who does not know when her ways wander. The only way to combat this, according to these verses is to listen to understanding, discretion, and knowledge.
Pray: Uganda
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Where is That?!
Pray:
Turks and Caicos Islands- in the Caribbean. The islands have a history of drug trade and money laundering. 25% live below the poverty line.
Tuvalu- In the Pacific, east of Australia. Only encompassing 24 km worth of coral atolls. They are strongly Protestant and very traditional, but some of the traditions are challenged by outside society. Pray for wisdom to preserve the nation and culture.
Proverbs 4:20-27
"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." verse 23
Psalm 20
We must put our trust in God. I cannot imagine how those who do not know him are able to function. How do you live without hope? "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." verse 7
Matthew 15:29-16:12
Jesus feeds a large crowd again with a few loaves and fish. I didn't realized the two occurrences were so close together. He also warns the disciples about listening to the teaching of the Pharisees.
Genesis 48-49
Jacob (Israel) is giving blessings to his sons and grandsons. After he blesses, he then tells them what to do with him once he dies. Then, he basically lays down in bed and that's it.
Turks and Caicos Islands- in the Caribbean. The islands have a history of drug trade and money laundering. 25% live below the poverty line.
Tuvalu- In the Pacific, east of Australia. Only encompassing 24 km worth of coral atolls. They are strongly Protestant and very traditional, but some of the traditions are challenged by outside society. Pray for wisdom to preserve the nation and culture.
Proverbs 4:20-27
"Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." verse 23
Psalm 20
We must put our trust in God. I cannot imagine how those who do not know him are able to function. How do you live without hope? "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." verse 7
Matthew 15:29-16:12
Jesus feeds a large crowd again with a few loaves and fish. I didn't realized the two occurrences were so close together. He also warns the disciples about listening to the teaching of the Pharisees.
Genesis 48-49
Jacob (Israel) is giving blessings to his sons and grandsons. After he blesses, he then tells them what to do with him once he dies. Then, he basically lays down in bed and that's it.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Day 23- Prone To Wander
If anyone out there is actually reading this, I am about to get pretty honest and transparent. My family has been in my home for the last couple of days for Thanksgiving. It has been wonderful! We are not all together very often, so we take advantage of the times that we are together and have lots of fun. But in this short time that they have been here, I have found that I am easily distracted and have not been spending meaningful time in prayer or in the Word. Sure, I have kept up with the daily readings and I have made sure I know which country I'm supposed to be praying for each day, but these things have taken a backseat to other stuff going on and I have rushed through it. Why? My family loves the Lord, too, so it's not like they are critical of me spending time with Him. Somehow, it just seems less important, and that scares me. My greatest desire in life is to know the Lord and bring Him glory, but I do have other desires as well. I dream of a husband and family of my own someday, but don't see how I will ever keep my priorities in the right order if I have them. I am so easily distracted, I just can't imagine how it will work. I'm so thankful for the grace and mercy that come from Steadfast Love.
"O to grace how great a debtor
daily I'm constrained to be!
Let thy goodness, like a fetter,
bind my wandering heart to thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
prone to leave the God I love;
here's my heart, O take and seal it,
seal it for thy courts above."
Lord, meet with me as I read your Word this morning.
Genesis 46-47So I'm pretty sure when Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery they never realized he would save them by having them move to Egypt and that they would multiply in numbers to the point of the Egyptians fearing them and making them slaves. That didn't all happen in these two chapters, but Israel did move his family to Egypt in the reading today. When they moved his family numbered 70. (And they ended up in the millions!)
Matthew 15:1-28In this passage we see the danger of thinking like a Pharisee. These men questioned Jesus about things they saw Him doing that they considered to be against the laws of their tradition. Jesus But He called them hypocrites because they weren't keeping other parts of the law. Then he says to them,"This people honors me with their lips,but their heart is far from me;in vain do they worship me..." verse 8-9Jesus expresses much better than me the concerns I was having this morning. I am fearful that my heart is not in the right place sometimes. That other things take more priority and that my worship is in vain. May it not be so! Jesus goes on to say that it is not what goes into a person physically that makes them unclean, but what comes out from the overflow of the heart that truly defiles a person.
Psalm 19"The law of the Lord is perfect" verse 7 This is the same law the Pharisees were trying to call into question in the reading from Matthew today. And again, speaking to my heart:"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." verse 14
Proverbs 4:14-19A warning against following the path of the wicked. The wicked will have trouble, "but the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day." verse 18
Pray: Turkmenistan
This country is in the middle east part of Asia. They are recovering from a leader who basically was crazy and are trying to figure out what to do now. Believers of Christianity are persecuted, but their numbers have grown in spite of it. Pray for the current leaders and for believers to share their faith.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Turkey on Thanksgiving
Turkey on Thanksgiving. And I don't mean to eat! Funnily enough, prayer for the country Turkey falls on the same day we Americans will all be eating turkey. Here are some things I prayed for today:
prejudice, mistrust, and dislike of Christianity- media spreads untruths
decline of the church- from 22% Christian to 0.21%
the loss of close family ties for those who do choose Christianity
persecution- besides being socially unaccepted, harassed, and disrupted church services, persecution is becoming increasingly more violent
Genesis 42:18-43
Joseph gives his brothers tasks to do because they do not yet know who he is. He is gracious to them and had compassion on them.
Matthew 13:47-14:12
A couple more parable, then Jesus returns to His hometown. The people there do not have faith in Him. Then, John the Baptist is beheaded by Herod who was wrapped up in all kinds of sin.
Psalm 18:16-36
"he rescued me, because he delighted in me." verse 19
I'm still loving the language of this psalm.
Proverbs 4:7-10
Still speaking as a father he says to get wisdom and insight so that the years of your life may be long.
My family is here and I love it! We will also be joined by several others who didn't have plans for Thanksgiving. I can't wait to have a houseful of friends and family! My blessings are too numerous. May all the glory go to God!
prejudice, mistrust, and dislike of Christianity- media spreads untruths
decline of the church- from 22% Christian to 0.21%
the loss of close family ties for those who do choose Christianity
persecution- besides being socially unaccepted, harassed, and disrupted church services, persecution is becoming increasingly more violent
Genesis 42:18-43
Joseph gives his brothers tasks to do because they do not yet know who he is. He is gracious to them and had compassion on them.
Matthew 13:47-14:12
A couple more parable, then Jesus returns to His hometown. The people there do not have faith in Him. Then, John the Baptist is beheaded by Herod who was wrapped up in all kinds of sin.
Psalm 18:16-36
"he rescued me, because he delighted in me." verse 19
I'm still loving the language of this psalm.
Proverbs 4:7-10
Still speaking as a father he says to get wisdom and insight so that the years of your life may be long.
My family is here and I love it! We will also be joined by several others who didn't have plans for Thanksgiving. I can't wait to have a houseful of friends and family! My blessings are too numerous. May all the glory go to God!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
How Sweet It Is
Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and because of the holiday several of us in Wednesday night Bible study would not have been able to make it. But those girls are so committed to spending time in the Word and knowing Christ that they chose to meet on Monday night so we wouldn't miss a week. I cannot express how sweet it is, or how much good it does my heart to hear the conversations that come about from spending time in the Word together. God is truly blessing these times and I look forward to learning more each week. I'm so thankful for the girls in that group and the ladies who lead it. They truly are Titus 2 women, training younger women to live according to the Word.
Pray:
Yesterday I prayed for Tunisia. I hadn't heard of it before. It's on the northern coast of Africa and 99% Muslim. Pray hard.
Today I prayed for Turkey. The country itself is 3% in Europe and 97% in Asia. Based on their geography, they have great potential to be a positive political influence in an area of unrest. There are major issues between Islam and Nationalism. The country's religion is officially a secular state, but religious freedom has not been completely upheld.
Genesis 41:17-42:17
Joseph is blessed no matter where he lands- as a servant, in jail, in the Pharaoh's house. He interprets dreams and Pharaoh gives him the job of storing food for seven years so that in times of drought Egypt will be prepared. When the famine comes, so do Joseph's brothers, but they don't recognize him.
Matthew 13:24-46
Jesus is speaking in parables to the crowd. The parable of the weeds, of leaven, of hidden treasure, of the pearl of great value. And He tells his reasoning for speaking this way: to fulfill prophesy. "I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world." verse 35 (Psalm 78:2)
Psalm 18:1-15
What powerful words! David wrote this psalm after being rescued from his enemies, including Saul. The language used to describe how the Lord came powerfully and swiftly on behalf of His servant is absolutely beautiful.
Proverbs 4:1-6
Solomon wrote the whole opening of this book as if writing to sons. In these verses he is reminding us to listen to him as a father instructing his son. He tells us to "be attentive, that you may gain insight." verse 1
Pray:
Yesterday I prayed for Tunisia. I hadn't heard of it before. It's on the northern coast of Africa and 99% Muslim. Pray hard.
Today I prayed for Turkey. The country itself is 3% in Europe and 97% in Asia. Based on their geography, they have great potential to be a positive political influence in an area of unrest. There are major issues between Islam and Nationalism. The country's religion is officially a secular state, but religious freedom has not been completely upheld.
Genesis 41:17-42:17
Joseph is blessed no matter where he lands- as a servant, in jail, in the Pharaoh's house. He interprets dreams and Pharaoh gives him the job of storing food for seven years so that in times of drought Egypt will be prepared. When the famine comes, so do Joseph's brothers, but they don't recognize him.
Matthew 13:24-46
Jesus is speaking in parables to the crowd. The parable of the weeds, of leaven, of hidden treasure, of the pearl of great value. And He tells his reasoning for speaking this way: to fulfill prophesy. "I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world." verse 35 (Psalm 78:2)
Psalm 18:1-15
What powerful words! David wrote this psalm after being rescued from his enemies, including Saul. The language used to describe how the Lord came powerfully and swiftly on behalf of His servant is absolutely beautiful.
Proverbs 4:1-6
Solomon wrote the whole opening of this book as if writing to sons. In these verses he is reminding us to listen to him as a father instructing his son. He tells us to "be attentive, that you may gain insight." verse 1
Monday, November 22, 2010
Rose and Roy
Yesterday, my Sunday school class met Roy and Rose. Instead of making ourselves a Thanksgiving meal and sitting at my house thinking about ourselves, we took at meal to our new friends and then pulled a stump out of their front yard. I hope we will continue our relationship with them.
Pray:
Tonga- islands in the South Pacific
There is a strong Christian presence in this country, but there has been a spiritual decline over the last century.
Trinidad & Tobago- island in the Caribbean just north of Venezuela
Very diverse population resulting in many social challenges and division in the Church that is there.
Read:
Proverbs 3:27-32
How not to treat those around us. "...the devious person is an abomination to the Lord," verse 31
Psalm 16
"I have a beautiful inheritance." verse 6
"...in the night also my heart instructs me." verse 7 Heart can also be translated as kidneys. I always chuckle at the thought of kidneys instructing us during the night. :)
"in your presence there is fullness of joy;" verse 11
Matthew 12:22-45
Jesus disputes that he is the prince of demons and says that a tree will be known by its fruits.
Genesis 37-38
Joseph's brothers sell him.
Pray:
Tonga- islands in the South Pacific
There is a strong Christian presence in this country, but there has been a spiritual decline over the last century.
Trinidad & Tobago- island in the Caribbean just north of Venezuela
Very diverse population resulting in many social challenges and division in the Church that is there.
Read:
Proverbs 3:27-32
How not to treat those around us. "...the devious person is an abomination to the Lord," verse 31
Psalm 16
"I have a beautiful inheritance." verse 6
"...in the night also my heart instructs me." verse 7 Heart can also be translated as kidneys. I always chuckle at the thought of kidneys instructing us during the night. :)
"in your presence there is fullness of joy;" verse 11
Matthew 12:22-45
Jesus disputes that he is the prince of demons and says that a tree will be known by its fruits.
Genesis 37-38
Joseph's brothers sell him.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Yucatan Taco Stand
Last night I got to meet one of my best friends for dinner and it was wonderful. She is such an encourager and we always have fun together. We have resolved to get together more often. I can't wait for the next time!
Pray:
Togo- Small country in Africa. They have had a rough political history, with fixed elections and uprisings that have led to many deaths. There was also a period in the 70's of anti-Christian thinking. Since then, the church has been allowed, but there is a need for unity and leaders. Some Christians still practice animism and voodoo. There is also lots of prayer needed for the children and orphans of the country who get swallowed up into human trafficking.
Genesis 35-36
God officially renamed Jacob as Israel. Esau's descendants are listed- I have to be really careful to actually read this type of passage and not just skim over it.
Matthew 12:1-21
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. But He still did work on those days. He was not caught up in the law of it like those who questioned Him. He said, "I desire mercy, and not sacrifice." I am still working through the meaning of some of the things Jesus says. Sometimes I feel like it's so cryptic. I want to honor the Lord with the way I spend my Sabbath. It has been high priority for a while for this to be a day of rest for me. But it has been filled up with things that are good, so these verses are reassuring to me.
Psalm 15
"He who does these things shall never be moved." verse 5
This psalm tells the characteristics of a person who will dwell on the Lord's holy hill.
Proverbs 3:21-26
When we keep sound wisdom and discretion we will walk securely, not stumble, not be afraid, and the Lord will be our confidence. I am thankful for the Lord's confidence, for I have none of my own.
Pray:
Togo- Small country in Africa. They have had a rough political history, with fixed elections and uprisings that have led to many deaths. There was also a period in the 70's of anti-Christian thinking. Since then, the church has been allowed, but there is a need for unity and leaders. Some Christians still practice animism and voodoo. There is also lots of prayer needed for the children and orphans of the country who get swallowed up into human trafficking.
Genesis 35-36
God officially renamed Jacob as Israel. Esau's descendants are listed- I have to be really careful to actually read this type of passage and not just skim over it.
Matthew 12:1-21
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath. But He still did work on those days. He was not caught up in the law of it like those who questioned Him. He said, "I desire mercy, and not sacrifice." I am still working through the meaning of some of the things Jesus says. Sometimes I feel like it's so cryptic. I want to honor the Lord with the way I spend my Sabbath. It has been high priority for a while for this to be a day of rest for me. But it has been filled up with things that are good, so these verses are reassuring to me.
Psalm 15
"He who does these things shall never be moved." verse 5
This psalm tells the characteristics of a person who will dwell on the Lord's holy hill.
Proverbs 3:21-26
When we keep sound wisdom and discretion we will walk securely, not stumble, not be afraid, and the Lord will be our confidence. I am thankful for the Lord's confidence, for I have none of my own.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Multiplying Community
"Commit yourself to a multiplying community." This is one of the five things I am working on over the next year. Thankfully I am already a member of a great church, so for me this has meant really investing my time in my specific smaller group of twenty-somethings. There are so many wonderful people in this group and I am excited to see all the things that have been going on that are growing us and bringing us closer to the Lord. It was with this group that I initially started Radical. Just a couple of things that I'm really excited about right now are our Wednesday night small groups and Secret Church. We have gone from one Bible study to three small groups Bible studies on Wednesday nights, and speaking personally, the group I'm involved in is really challenging us to know and learn from God. It's wonderful. Secret Church just happened last night for the first time. We met at a house with the intention of simply spending time exploring what God's word tells us about certain topics. We studied for several hours and I walked away feeling blessed by the other people in this group who are committing themselves to the Lord. It says a lot for someone when they will give up a Friday night to simply study the Bible.
So now, on to my reading and prayer. :)
Genesis 31:17-34 (brief overview!)
Jacob is ready to leave his father-in-law's land and return with his family and possession to the land of his father. After twenty years, no less! Jacob sneaks off, Laban pursues, but everything works out. Then Jacob gets really nervous about going back and seeing his brother. You know, Esau, the one he cheated out of everything. So he sends word ahead that he is coming and also sends many gifts as well. Esau welcomes him with open arms and their relationship is restored. In the midst of all these happenings, Jacob is left alone one night and wrestles with a man who turns out to be God. At the end of the wrestling match God changes Jacob's name to Israel. How had I missed this before? Israel- the 12 tribes, the wandering Israelites- was Jacob! Somehow I'd never solidified that connection in my brain.
Matthew 10:26-11
Jesus is still instructing the 12 disciples. He told them to have to fear- to bring light into the darkness and to proclaim from the rooftops the things they hear. We have nothing to worry about because we belong to Him. He knows every detail, down to the number of hairs on our heads. (Which is constantly changing when it comes to my head.) And right after telling them to not be afraid He says that He has come to bring a sword, and not peace. That we will be set against our household because we are to love Him more than we love our families. He says that when we lose our life, we will find it.
Then He travels to other cities and talks with the people about John the Baptist, judgement for the unrepentant and finally, the rest that can be found when we yoke ourselves to Him.
Psalm 13 & 14
13- The writer is obviously going through a period of trial and basically asking how long it's going to last. But in the end he recognizes that God's love and salvation bring rejoicing. "I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me." verse 6 I love vocabulary, and therefore love the word bountifully in that verse. :)
14- "there is no one who does good. ...Oh, that salvation for Israel would come..." verse 1, 7
Proverbs 3:16-20
"She (wisdom) is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed." verse 18 The Lord has wisdom and knowledge, so I would think when we seek for them and gain them we are made more like Him.
Pray:
Timor Leste- Southeast Asia
This country is part of an island that is shared by Indonesia.
So now, on to my reading and prayer. :)
Genesis 31:17-34 (brief overview!)
Jacob is ready to leave his father-in-law's land and return with his family and possession to the land of his father. After twenty years, no less! Jacob sneaks off, Laban pursues, but everything works out. Then Jacob gets really nervous about going back and seeing his brother. You know, Esau, the one he cheated out of everything. So he sends word ahead that he is coming and also sends many gifts as well. Esau welcomes him with open arms and their relationship is restored. In the midst of all these happenings, Jacob is left alone one night and wrestles with a man who turns out to be God. At the end of the wrestling match God changes Jacob's name to Israel. How had I missed this before? Israel- the 12 tribes, the wandering Israelites- was Jacob! Somehow I'd never solidified that connection in my brain.
Matthew 10:26-11
Jesus is still instructing the 12 disciples. He told them to have to fear- to bring light into the darkness and to proclaim from the rooftops the things they hear. We have nothing to worry about because we belong to Him. He knows every detail, down to the number of hairs on our heads. (Which is constantly changing when it comes to my head.) And right after telling them to not be afraid He says that He has come to bring a sword, and not peace. That we will be set against our household because we are to love Him more than we love our families. He says that when we lose our life, we will find it.
Then He travels to other cities and talks with the people about John the Baptist, judgement for the unrepentant and finally, the rest that can be found when we yoke ourselves to Him.
Psalm 13 & 14
13- The writer is obviously going through a period of trial and basically asking how long it's going to last. But in the end he recognizes that God's love and salvation bring rejoicing. "I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me." verse 6 I love vocabulary, and therefore love the word bountifully in that verse. :)
14- "there is no one who does good. ...Oh, that salvation for Israel would come..." verse 1, 7
Proverbs 3:16-20
"She (wisdom) is a tree of life to those who lay hold of her; those who hold her fast are called blessed." verse 18 The Lord has wisdom and knowledge, so I would think when we seek for them and gain them we are made more like Him.
Pray:
Timor Leste- Southeast Asia
This country is part of an island that is shared by Indonesia.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Dare #3
The third thing in my list of five that I am trying to do over the next year is give my money for a specific purpose. To me, this means I need to give until I don't have anything left to give. Before you label me as completely crazy, hear me say that this doesn't mean I will deplete my savings, or even that I will stop saving for this year. It means that whatever extra I have will not just remain in my bank account because it makes me feel better. I have been praying about how the Lord would have me spend my money. Some day soon I will get into my spending habits, but for today I want to focus on a new project.
At work we received an email giving us the opportunity to adopt an "angel" from the Salvation Army. The idea is that a class or school could do this together. Well, I decided to adopt on behalf of my choir, so I will have 1 boy and 1 girl about the same age as the kids in my group. I will talk to them about the whole process and then have them give me ideas for gifts. I want to take pictures of the whole process, have the kids make a card, and hopefully this will be a life lesson about giving to those who are less fortunate than us. I'm excited about it!!
Pray:
Thailand. Did you know Thailand is the world's largest exporter of rice and that they have the world's longest-reigning monarch? Religious freedom is also guaranteed in their constitution, but still 85% of the people are Buddhist.
Answers to prayer- The Church in Thailand is growing! There has been a noticeably more rapid increase in numbers. There has also been emerging indigenous leadership that are setting ambitious goals. Missionaries have also learned to be more effective by understanding the culture and using it, instead of trying to fit their foreign ideas into the Church.
Genesis 30-31:16
What mama drama! Jacob has two wives: Leah can have children, but Rachel is barren. So Rachel gives Jacob her servant as a wife to increase his sons, so Leah does the same. Then Leah bears more sons and Rachel finally has one of her own. This just seems crazy to me! Next, the Lord tells Jacob it is time to leave and return to the land of his fathers. He does not leave on good terms, but he gets ready to go.
Matthew 10:1-23
Jesus sends out the twelve disciples. He tells them specifically where to go, and where not to go. I know He still directs us today. Then he tells them there will be persecution, but He also assures them that they will be given the words to say. I desperately need those words.
Psalm 12
"The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a fire" verse 6
Proverbs 3:13-15
Wisdom is better gain than silver, gold, or jewels and is beyond comparison for things that are desirable. Those who find wisdom are blessed.
Jesus sends out the twelve disciples. He tells them specifically where to go, and where not to go. I know He still directs us today. Then he tells them there will be persecution, but He also assures them that they will be given the words to say. I desperately need those words.
Psalm 12
"The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a fire" verse 6
Proverbs 3:13-15
Wisdom is better gain than silver, gold, or jewels and is beyond comparison for things that are desirable. Those who find wisdom are blessed.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Day 13
Prayer:
2nd day praying for Tanzania. My wonderful friend, Liz, lived in Tanzania for six months so I have been thinking about her a lot as I read through this one.
Proverbs 3:11-12
The Lord disciplines us because He loves us. Since I have no children of my own, I did not fully understand this until I became a teacher. In fact, just today I was trying my best to convince a class of 5th graders that the reason I insist they do things the right way is because I love them and see their true potential, and it is disappointing to see them not living up to it. I wonder what potential the Lord sees in me... and if I even remotely come close to living up to it?
Psalm 11
"The Lord is in his holy temple; ... his eyes see" verse 4
Matthew 9:18-38
People began coming to Jesus for healing, but others were already mocking Him. In a span of three verses, we see a woman who knew that if she was just able to touch the hem of His garment she would be made well, and then a mourning crowd who laughed at Jesus when He told them the girl was not dead. What faith! And what blindness! Jesus traveled and healed and preached and had compassion on the crowds. At the end of this chapter, He tells the disciples that "the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." And the instructions that follow are to PRAY for the Lord to send out laborers.
Genesis 28-29
Jacob has a dream, involving angels ascending and descending a ladder reaching to heaven, in which God promises to bless him and make his offspring very numerous. Then he proceeds to Haran to find a wife and is tricked into marrying Leah, but the also wins Rachel as a wife. I almost want to say "Now he know what it feels like," regarding his earlier trickery, but I least of all need to be judging someone else.
2nd day praying for Tanzania. My wonderful friend, Liz, lived in Tanzania for six months so I have been thinking about her a lot as I read through this one.
Proverbs 3:11-12
The Lord disciplines us because He loves us. Since I have no children of my own, I did not fully understand this until I became a teacher. In fact, just today I was trying my best to convince a class of 5th graders that the reason I insist they do things the right way is because I love them and see their true potential, and it is disappointing to see them not living up to it. I wonder what potential the Lord sees in me... and if I even remotely come close to living up to it?
Psalm 11
"The Lord is in his holy temple; ... his eyes see" verse 4
Matthew 9:18-38
People began coming to Jesus for healing, but others were already mocking Him. In a span of three verses, we see a woman who knew that if she was just able to touch the hem of His garment she would be made well, and then a mourning crowd who laughed at Jesus when He told them the girl was not dead. What faith! And what blindness! Jesus traveled and healed and preached and had compassion on the crowds. At the end of this chapter, He tells the disciples that "the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." And the instructions that follow are to PRAY for the Lord to send out laborers.
Genesis 28-29
Jacob has a dream, involving angels ascending and descending a ladder reaching to heaven, in which God promises to bless him and make his offspring very numerous. Then he proceeds to Haran to find a wife and is tricked into marrying Leah, but the also wins Rachel as a wife. I almost want to say "Now he know what it feels like," regarding his earlier trickery, but I least of all need to be judging someone else.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Worth Fighting For
Spicing things up a bit today... reading first, then praying. :)
Genesis 26:17-27:46
Talk about the original family drama. Isaac's two sons, Esau and Jacob, did not get along to say the least. Jacob took Esau's birthright and blessing from his father. He was very sneaky. But he didn't act alone. His mother (Isaac's wife!) was orchestrating all of this. I don't understand why! Isaac was still faithful, though. Men from the land he settled in came to him to form an alliance because they said, "We plainly see that the Lord has been with you." I hope the evidence of God in my life is plain to see.
Matthew 9:1-17
Jesus has started performing miracles. This means that some start questioning Him. I wonder if I had lived in that time and saw the miraculous things He did, would I believe in Him as the Son of God? Or would I be too skeptical? I'm thankful that Truth has always been part of my life. Jesus has also started answering questions in ways that don't seem to make perfect sense. Sometimes I'm not sure what He's saying.
Psalm 10:16-18
"O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart..." verse 17
Proverbs 3:9-10
When we honor the Lord with the first and best of our material possessions, He will provide greatly for us.
Prayer: Tanzania
The following scriptures have been on my mind and heart as my days get longer and fuller, my nights get shorter, and my time with the Lord in the morning is very sleepy and seemingly too short, but of upmost importance:
"Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ... and having done all, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:10-20
This is absolutely worth fighting for.
Genesis 26:17-27:46
Talk about the original family drama. Isaac's two sons, Esau and Jacob, did not get along to say the least. Jacob took Esau's birthright and blessing from his father. He was very sneaky. But he didn't act alone. His mother (Isaac's wife!) was orchestrating all of this. I don't understand why! Isaac was still faithful, though. Men from the land he settled in came to him to form an alliance because they said, "We plainly see that the Lord has been with you." I hope the evidence of God in my life is plain to see.
Matthew 9:1-17
Jesus has started performing miracles. This means that some start questioning Him. I wonder if I had lived in that time and saw the miraculous things He did, would I believe in Him as the Son of God? Or would I be too skeptical? I'm thankful that Truth has always been part of my life. Jesus has also started answering questions in ways that don't seem to make perfect sense. Sometimes I'm not sure what He's saying.
Psalm 10:16-18
"O Lord, you hear the desire of the afflicted; you will strengthen their heart..." verse 17
Proverbs 3:9-10
When we honor the Lord with the first and best of our material possessions, He will provide greatly for us.
Prayer: Tanzania
The following scriptures have been on my mind and heart as my days get longer and fuller, my nights get shorter, and my time with the Lord in the morning is very sleepy and seemingly too short, but of upmost importance:
"Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ... and having done all, to stand firm." Ephesians 6:10-20
This is absolutely worth fighting for.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Pinky Swear.
Pray:
My country today is Syria. In the Middle East. The capital is Damascus, the one from the Bible. Islam is recognized as the religion of the majority (90%), but other minorities have rights and privileges with a measure of religious freedom. A measure of freedom. Can you imagine? There are several unreached people groups in the country. Christian media comes in the form of literature, radio, tv, and films throughout the country and has potential to be very effective.
Genesis 23-24:51
Sarah dies and Abraham mourns and weeps for her. Then he makes one of his servants swear to find a wife for Isaac from among his people and not the people of the land where they live now. When I was growing up, we used to say "Pinky swear?" to each other. That meant you really, really promised something. Well Abraham's version of that was, "put your hand under my thigh and swear..." That's almost the same, right?! This servant was faithful and followed the Lord to find Rebekah for Isaac.
Matthew 8:1-17
A man came to Jesus and asked Him to heal a servant that was at his house. Jesus marveled at his faith. He marveled at him. What would it take in my life to cause Jesus to marvel at me? Oh, that my faith would be great enough to work miracles on behalf of those in my "house."
Psalm 9:13-20
"Put them in fear, O Lord! Let the nations know that they are but men!" verse 20
Proverbs 3:1-6
"Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart." verse 3 I'm so thankful for the promise of paths made straight for me if I will only trust in the Lord and not my own understanding.
My country today is Syria. In the Middle East. The capital is Damascus, the one from the Bible. Islam is recognized as the religion of the majority (90%), but other minorities have rights and privileges with a measure of religious freedom. A measure of freedom. Can you imagine? There are several unreached people groups in the country. Christian media comes in the form of literature, radio, tv, and films throughout the country and has potential to be very effective.
Genesis 23-24:51
Sarah dies and Abraham mourns and weeps for her. Then he makes one of his servants swear to find a wife for Isaac from among his people and not the people of the land where they live now. When I was growing up, we used to say "Pinky swear?" to each other. That meant you really, really promised something. Well Abraham's version of that was, "put your hand under my thigh and swear..." That's almost the same, right?! This servant was faithful and followed the Lord to find Rebekah for Isaac.
Matthew 8:1-17
A man came to Jesus and asked Him to heal a servant that was at his house. Jesus marveled at his faith. He marveled at him. What would it take in my life to cause Jesus to marvel at me? Oh, that my faith would be great enough to work miracles on behalf of those in my "house."
Psalm 9:13-20
"Put them in fear, O Lord! Let the nations know that they are but men!" verse 20
Proverbs 3:1-6
"Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart." verse 3 I'm so thankful for the promise of paths made straight for me if I will only trust in the Lord and not my own understanding.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Panic
You know the feeling you get when you suddenly realize you've slept longer than you need to? How about the one when you wake up at 8:03 and school started at 8:00? If you've never experienced it and are unable to relate, let me just explain what happens- panic.
That's how my day started on Thursday and I sort of feel like I've been running to catch up ever since then. At least where the blog is concerned. I have not followed behind in reading or praying, though, which I am very grateful for. I have been learning a lot. So here is a quick list of the things I've covered in the last couple of days.
Pray for the entire world: Suriname (South America), Swaziland (Africa), Sweden (Europe)
Read through the Bible: Genesis 16-20, Matthew 6, Psalms 7-8, Proverbs 2:1-15
On Wednesday night I attended a new ladies small group Bible study and have fallen in love with the women leading it. What wisdom and insight they possess! This first week we talked about the "how to" of really spending time in the Word and how to hear God in the Scriptures. The process we talked about includes three things- read, hear, heed. There were so many things said that really resonated with me:
1. circumstances around us can effect the tone that we hear from the Word.
2. we have to spend enough time listening to let the Holy Spirit breathe life into the Words.
3. there is no need to search for answers through the whole Bible, meaning the Lord will speak to us from where ever we happen to be studying.
This last point was proven to me just yesterday as I went through this process in the book of James that we are all going through together. My concerns from the week were address in the first couple of verses I read. How amazing is the Lord?!
So that brings me to today. One of the things I am praying through right now is how to be spending my money. At this point, the only thing I have really changed is using my resources to strengthen relationships. Basically, taking friends out for meals, coffee, a movie, or whatever it may be so I can spend time with them. I am loving it! I know there needs to be more in the way of monetary sacrifice, though.
Prayed For:
Switzerland- This nation is struggling with stagnation where the church is concerned. There has been a large decline in those attending church, or who even consider themselves religious. I was able to pray for renewal. I have been to Switzerland, so it was cool to pray for a place I can picture. This place is so beautiful! I also attended a mass while I was there and saw for myself a huge, old church with just a few people scattered here and there in the pews.
Read (and recap):
Genesis 21-22
Sarai takes matters into her own hands and gives her servant to Abram to produce an heir. As you can imagine, this only creates problems! God changes their names to Abraham and Sarah, and promises that Sarah will bear a song in a year's time. Sodom is corrupt and Abraham prays for it, but there are not enough righteous people for God to save it. He does rescue Lot, but Lot's wife is turned into a pillar of salt. Sarah must have been really stinkin' beautiful because she was taken again by a king, even in her old age. God avenges her again and she is returned to Abraham. Then, true to God's word, Sarah gives birth to Isaac. God asks Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, but provides a ram for the sacrifice instead because Abraham was faithful and feared the Lord.
Matthew 7
Do not be anxious or worry- God will provide. When we seek the Lord, we will find Him! A tree will be recognized by it's fruit. Those who listen and do what Jesus was teaching will be wise. This is the end of His sermon that started in chapter 5.
Psalm 9:1-12
"O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" 8:1
"I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart." 9:1
"But the Lord sits enthroned forever." 9:7
Proverbs 2:16-22
The Lord gives wisdom so we will be delivered from those who speak smooth words but lead to death.
That's how my day started on Thursday and I sort of feel like I've been running to catch up ever since then. At least where the blog is concerned. I have not followed behind in reading or praying, though, which I am very grateful for. I have been learning a lot. So here is a quick list of the things I've covered in the last couple of days.
Pray for the entire world: Suriname (South America), Swaziland (Africa), Sweden (Europe)
Read through the Bible: Genesis 16-20, Matthew 6, Psalms 7-8, Proverbs 2:1-15
On Wednesday night I attended a new ladies small group Bible study and have fallen in love with the women leading it. What wisdom and insight they possess! This first week we talked about the "how to" of really spending time in the Word and how to hear God in the Scriptures. The process we talked about includes three things- read, hear, heed. There were so many things said that really resonated with me:
1. circumstances around us can effect the tone that we hear from the Word.
2. we have to spend enough time listening to let the Holy Spirit breathe life into the Words.
3. there is no need to search for answers through the whole Bible, meaning the Lord will speak to us from where ever we happen to be studying.
This last point was proven to me just yesterday as I went through this process in the book of James that we are all going through together. My concerns from the week were address in the first couple of verses I read. How amazing is the Lord?!
So that brings me to today. One of the things I am praying through right now is how to be spending my money. At this point, the only thing I have really changed is using my resources to strengthen relationships. Basically, taking friends out for meals, coffee, a movie, or whatever it may be so I can spend time with them. I am loving it! I know there needs to be more in the way of monetary sacrifice, though.
Prayed For:
Switzerland- This nation is struggling with stagnation where the church is concerned. There has been a large decline in those attending church, or who even consider themselves religious. I was able to pray for renewal. I have been to Switzerland, so it was cool to pray for a place I can picture. This place is so beautiful! I also attended a mass while I was there and saw for myself a huge, old church with just a few people scattered here and there in the pews.
Read (and recap):
Genesis 21-22
Sarai takes matters into her own hands and gives her servant to Abram to produce an heir. As you can imagine, this only creates problems! God changes their names to Abraham and Sarah, and promises that Sarah will bear a song in a year's time. Sodom is corrupt and Abraham prays for it, but there are not enough righteous people for God to save it. He does rescue Lot, but Lot's wife is turned into a pillar of salt. Sarah must have been really stinkin' beautiful because she was taken again by a king, even in her old age. God avenges her again and she is returned to Abraham. Then, true to God's word, Sarah gives birth to Isaac. God asks Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, but provides a ram for the sacrifice instead because Abraham was faithful and feared the Lord.
Matthew 7
Do not be anxious or worry- God will provide. When we seek the Lord, we will find Him! A tree will be recognized by it's fruit. Those who listen and do what Jesus was teaching will be wise. This is the end of His sermon that started in chapter 5.
Psalm 9:1-12
"O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth!" 8:1
"I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart." 9:1
"But the Lord sits enthroned forever." 9:7
Proverbs 2:16-22
The Lord gives wisdom so we will be delivered from those who speak smooth words but lead to death.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Almost
This is the first day so far that I have not completed the blog. I'm sure there will be many more to come. I did pray and read today, I just ran out of time when it came to writing about the Scriptures. I'm still trying to figure out the best way to do the five challenges and will be rearranging a few more things soon. :)
Last day for Sudan:
South Sudan has experienced peace since the agreement of 2005 and may eventually break away to form their own independent nation. There has also been much church growth in the south.
There is a great need for training of Christian leaders, as they are unequipped to deal with the struggles of their people.
The Darfur province contains some of the least-reached peoples in Africa.
Genesis 13:5-15:21
Matthew 5:27-48
Psalm 6
Proverbs 1:29-33
Last day for Sudan:
South Sudan has experienced peace since the agreement of 2005 and may eventually break away to form their own independent nation. There has also been much church growth in the south.
There is a great need for training of Christian leaders, as they are unequipped to deal with the struggles of their people.
The Darfur province contains some of the least-reached peoples in Africa.
Genesis 13:5-15:21
Matthew 5:27-48
Psalm 6
Proverbs 1:29-33
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
I Must
How the days do fill up. I needed to get to work early today, because I was behind, but knew that meant I would have to find time somewhere else in my day to spend with the Lord. And although I still have tons to do at work, I could not help but take a break so I could pray and read. I love that I am only five days in and already this process has become a must in my day. I am thinking about it throughout the day, when in the past I have gotten to the end of a day and realized that I spared not even one thought for my God. This is not to highlight what I am accomplishing, but to recognize that the Lord is at work in me!
Praying for Sudan:
Justice- what a lofty thing to pray for, but how wonderful to know God hears my plea.
The end of slavery.
For the persecuted. "Pray that Christians may bear good witness to their persecutors..." Suddenly the things I arrived at work early for don't seem so important.
Recovery of the Church.
Genesis 11-13:4
God disperses the people of the earth and causes them to all speak different languages. Then the genealogy of Abram is traced back to Noah. God tells Abram to go to another land, so he does. That simple. Along the way, to avoid famine, he and his wife, Sarai, go to Egypt. Sarai was very beautiful so the Pharaoh took her into his house, but God sent great plagues on her behalf so that she would be returned to her husband. I love that God was her defender!!!!
Matthew 5:1-26
Jesus' sermon on the mount. Maybe my imagination is a little to vivid, but I wonder at the greatness of being a disciple sitting at Jesus' feet as He taught these things. I also really enjoy reading these lessons together, rather than taking just a small section as we so often do when in a Bible study setting. Nothing wrong with that, it's just nice for a change. verse 14- I hope my lamp is giving light to all in the house.
Psalm 5
This is the first psalm that uses the words steadfast love. Steadfast love is probably my favorite phrase in the Bible.
Proverbs 1:24-28
A warning that if we ignore wisdom, it will not be found when we call for it.
Praying for Sudan:
Justice- what a lofty thing to pray for, but how wonderful to know God hears my plea.
The end of slavery.
For the persecuted. "Pray that Christians may bear good witness to their persecutors..." Suddenly the things I arrived at work early for don't seem so important.
Recovery of the Church.
Genesis 11-13:4
God disperses the people of the earth and causes them to all speak different languages. Then the genealogy of Abram is traced back to Noah. God tells Abram to go to another land, so he does. That simple. Along the way, to avoid famine, he and his wife, Sarai, go to Egypt. Sarai was very beautiful so the Pharaoh took her into his house, but God sent great plagues on her behalf so that she would be returned to her husband. I love that God was her defender!!!!
Matthew 5:1-26
Jesus' sermon on the mount. Maybe my imagination is a little to vivid, but I wonder at the greatness of being a disciple sitting at Jesus' feet as He taught these things. I also really enjoy reading these lessons together, rather than taking just a small section as we so often do when in a Bible study setting. Nothing wrong with that, it's just nice for a change. verse 14- I hope my lamp is giving light to all in the house.
Psalm 5
This is the first psalm that uses the words steadfast love. Steadfast love is probably my favorite phrase in the Bible.
Proverbs 1:24-28
A warning that if we ignore wisdom, it will not be found when we call for it.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Land, ho!
Sudan:
This is the largest country in Africa and ranges from dessert to tropical bush, with mountains in between. The Nile runs through it. The North and South have long been at war, but are currently under a peace agreement. The government of Sudan has fought against, killed and displaced its own people, largely in Darfur. They have taken it to the point of genocide.
There are some answers to prayer, though! Because of all the war, Christians have dispersed throughout the country and planted churches throughout the nation. Christianity, in fact, has seen large growth and the crisis in Darfur has allowed for Christian relief workers to come in and share the gospel.
Genesis 8-10
After the flood, God promised to not flood the earth again and gave the rainbow as a sign of this promise. He also told Noah to repopulate the earth, and he did with a bunch of guys with crazy names. :)
Matthew 4:12-25
Jesus begins His ministry. He started preaching and healing people, but He also called the first disciples. What faith Simon Peter and Andrew must have had to just immediately leave their livelihood and follow after this man. And then James and John walked away from not only their profession, but their father as well. I pray that I will be found faithful, leaving all things behind...
Psalm 4
This one was to be sung with stringed instruments. (I love knowing that!) "You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound."
Proverbs 1:20-23
Wisdom cries out to us that we may know it's words.
This is the largest country in Africa and ranges from dessert to tropical bush, with mountains in between. The Nile runs through it. The North and South have long been at war, but are currently under a peace agreement. The government of Sudan has fought against, killed and displaced its own people, largely in Darfur. They have taken it to the point of genocide.
There are some answers to prayer, though! Because of all the war, Christians have dispersed throughout the country and planted churches throughout the nation. Christianity, in fact, has seen large growth and the crisis in Darfur has allowed for Christian relief workers to come in and share the gospel.
Genesis 8-10
After the flood, God promised to not flood the earth again and gave the rainbow as a sign of this promise. He also told Noah to repopulate the earth, and he did with a bunch of guys with crazy names. :)
Matthew 4:12-25
Jesus begins His ministry. He started preaching and healing people, but He also called the first disciples. What faith Simon Peter and Andrew must have had to just immediately leave their livelihood and follow after this man. And then James and John walked away from not only their profession, but their father as well. I pray that I will be found faithful, leaving all things behind...
Psalm 4
This one was to be sung with stringed instruments. (I love knowing that!) "You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound."
Proverbs 1:20-23
Wisdom cries out to us that we may know it's words.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Older Than Methuselah
Today I prayed for St. Martin, St Pierre and Miquelon, and St. Vincent. These are all small islands spread across the world like the places I prayed for yesterday. Of the seven islands that I read about and prayed for, only one of them had an "Answers to Prayer" section in the reading. Already, only three days in, I feel so oblivious to the world around me, but I am gaining a global perspective. We, the church, must find a sense of urgency to go to the world.
Genesis 5-7
Methuselah lived 969 years! He was also Noah's grandfather. Noah was the one who built the ark as instructed by God to save his family and the creatures of the earth from the flood God was going to send to get rid of the corruption of people. Today when I read this story that seems so familiar to me, I could not stop thinking about the series Planet Earth that has come out fairly recently. I watch those movies in amazement at how vast a number and how varied are the creatures that live on this planet. What an experience to be in a really big boat with them all!
Matthew 3:7-4:11
John the Baptist is preparing the way for Jesus, and Jesus himself shows up to be baptized by John. What would I do if Jesus wanted me to do something like that? Oh, wait... He does call me to be involved in His ministry every day.
Psalm 3
verse 3- "But you, O Lord, are a shield about me. my glory, and the lifter of my head.
Proverbs 1:10-19
The world will try to entice us, but their destruction is only their own.
What a great day of the Lord this has been! At Sunday school this morning we heard from a servant who has spent the past five years of her life as a missionary in North Africa and Southeast Asia. She is young and single and is simply following after the Lord with her whole life. So much of what she said resonated with me. Then our pastor spoke about going where God sends us from Matthew chapter 14 when Peter walks on the water to Jesus. Jesus sent the disciples into the storm (literally) not to sink them, but to save them. After church I got to have lunch with two precious friends that I don't get to see often enough, but who will listen to me pour out my heart and get excited with me. It was great to hear what's going on with them as well. And very soon my house will be full of wonderful people gathering to fellowship and eat dinner. Chicken spaghetti tonight- mom's recipe! :)
Genesis 5-7
Methuselah lived 969 years! He was also Noah's grandfather. Noah was the one who built the ark as instructed by God to save his family and the creatures of the earth from the flood God was going to send to get rid of the corruption of people. Today when I read this story that seems so familiar to me, I could not stop thinking about the series Planet Earth that has come out fairly recently. I watch those movies in amazement at how vast a number and how varied are the creatures that live on this planet. What an experience to be in a really big boat with them all!
Matthew 3:7-4:11
John the Baptist is preparing the way for Jesus, and Jesus himself shows up to be baptized by John. What would I do if Jesus wanted me to do something like that? Oh, wait... He does call me to be involved in His ministry every day.
Psalm 3
verse 3- "But you, O Lord, are a shield about me. my glory, and the lifter of my head.
Proverbs 1:10-19
The world will try to entice us, but their destruction is only their own.
What a great day of the Lord this has been! At Sunday school this morning we heard from a servant who has spent the past five years of her life as a missionary in North Africa and Southeast Asia. She is young and single and is simply following after the Lord with her whole life. So much of what she said resonated with me. Then our pastor spoke about going where God sends us from Matthew chapter 14 when Peter walks on the water to Jesus. Jesus sent the disciples into the storm (literally) not to sink them, but to save them. After church I got to have lunch with two precious friends that I don't get to see often enough, but who will listen to me pour out my heart and get excited with me. It was great to hear what's going on with them as well. And very soon my house will be full of wonderful people gathering to fellowship and eat dinner. Chicken spaghetti tonight- mom's recipe! :)
Slippery Saturday
It is Saturday, and one of the things I like most about the weekend is having a day without a schedule or agenda. However, this meant that I did not follow my routine today and almost let the day slip away without spending any time in prayer or in the Word. I'm so thankful for the mercy and grace that are extended to me by my Savior.
Today (tonight) I prayed for St. Barthelemy, St. Helena, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia. These are all tiny islands both in the Caribbean and off the coast of Africa. Learning about them reminded me that the Lord sees everything, even these small places in the world that offer an escape for the wealthy or are in danger of being abandoned because of a lack of jobs. There is no place that He does not see.
Genesis 3-4
I love the story of creation and am in awe of the way God spoke everything out of nothing. I have so many questions to ask when I finally get to see Him face to face! In chapter four is the story of Cain and Abel. God said to Cain, "sin is crouching at your door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it." Good reminder.
Matthew 2:13-3:6
How faithful Joseph and Mary were. I wonder if they knew of the prophesies written about the Messiah.
Psalm 2
From yesterday- I love this: "He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season." The verse is speaking about someone who delights in the law of the Lord instead of the folly of man.
Today- "Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage..." This has such great meaning behind it as I pray for the world!
Proverbs 1:7-9
How to become wise. I want so badly to be wise, and "the fear of the Lord is the beginning..."
And now for bed.
Today (tonight) I prayed for St. Barthelemy, St. Helena, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia. These are all tiny islands both in the Caribbean and off the coast of Africa. Learning about them reminded me that the Lord sees everything, even these small places in the world that offer an escape for the wealthy or are in danger of being abandoned because of a lack of jobs. There is no place that He does not see.
Genesis 3-4
I love the story of creation and am in awe of the way God spoke everything out of nothing. I have so many questions to ask when I finally get to see Him face to face! In chapter four is the story of Cain and Abel. God said to Cain, "sin is crouching at your door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it." Good reminder.
Matthew 2:13-3:6
How faithful Joseph and Mary were. I wonder if they knew of the prophesies written about the Messiah.
Psalm 2
From yesterday- I love this: "He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season." The verse is speaking about someone who delights in the law of the Lord instead of the folly of man.
Today- "Ask of me, and I will make the nations your heritage..." This has such great meaning behind it as I pray for the world!
Proverbs 1:7-9
How to become wise. I want so badly to be wise, and "the fear of the Lord is the beginning..."
And now for bed.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Day 1
Well, I'm off to a good start I'd say. I like to spend time in the Word in the morning before I head off to work, which means I have to get up pretty early. And sometimes I don't quite have all the time I would hope for, but today I was able to start my prayer for the world and begin my trek through the Bible and still make it to work on time and without forgetting anything at home. I'm really excited to start this process!
Challenge One: pray for the entire world.
But how does one do that? Platt suggested using a book called Operation World. He explained it as a resource that gives information about countries throughout the world that you can use to pray with over the course of a year. This sounded like a good solution to me, so I decided I would get the book. Little did I know how awesome it would be!
Written by Jason Mandryk, it is subtitled as "The Definitive Prayer Guide to Every Nation." And it truly is just that. The 978 pages are filled with alphabetical listings of all the countries and include statistical and background information, followed by answered prayers and ways to currently pray for the country. When I say currently, I really do mean currently. The book is in it's 7th edition of printing and was just finished in August of this year. So when I prayed for Sri Lanka today, I was able to read about the recent end to their civil war and how the country is reeling from it. I prayed for God to raise up wise and truthful political leaders and for the children of the country who are suffering from malnutrition, abuse, and child prostitution.
It is a humbling experience spending time praying through the pages of this book. Knowing that I am so small in this vast world. Realizing that my blessings are far too abundant.
Challenge Two: read through the Bible in a year.
There are several online reading plans, so I have chosen one that gives me a portion of the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs to read each day. Today I read Genesis 1:1-2:15, Matthew 1:1-2:12, Psalm 1, and Proverbs 1:1-6. It was great! Since I wrote so much about prayer today I will save my musings on the Word for another time.
Obviously, all five challenges will not be met immediately, but as I said, I am off to a good start. :)
Challenge One: pray for the entire world.
But how does one do that? Platt suggested using a book called Operation World. He explained it as a resource that gives information about countries throughout the world that you can use to pray with over the course of a year. This sounded like a good solution to me, so I decided I would get the book. Little did I know how awesome it would be!
Written by Jason Mandryk, it is subtitled as "The Definitive Prayer Guide to Every Nation." And it truly is just that. The 978 pages are filled with alphabetical listings of all the countries and include statistical and background information, followed by answered prayers and ways to currently pray for the country. When I say currently, I really do mean currently. The book is in it's 7th edition of printing and was just finished in August of this year. So when I prayed for Sri Lanka today, I was able to read about the recent end to their civil war and how the country is reeling from it. I prayed for God to raise up wise and truthful political leaders and for the children of the country who are suffering from malnutrition, abuse, and child prostitution.
It is a humbling experience spending time praying through the pages of this book. Knowing that I am so small in this vast world. Realizing that my blessings are far too abundant.
Challenge Two: read through the Bible in a year.
There are several online reading plans, so I have chosen one that gives me a portion of the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs to read each day. Today I read Genesis 1:1-2:15, Matthew 1:1-2:12, Psalm 1, and Proverbs 1:1-6. It was great! Since I wrote so much about prayer today I will save my musings on the Word for another time.
Obviously, all five challenges will not be met immediately, but as I said, I am off to a good start. :)
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The Radical Experiment
To be honest, I have no idea where to even start. And if I did have the perfect beginning, I don't know what would come after it. I wish I had clever and witty words to use, but they just aren't there. I have come to a point in my life where I need simple truth. So here is mine- I need to change.
My desire in life is to glorify God, and in order to do that, I must be different.
The Sunday school class I belong to is finishing up a study of the book Radical by David Platt. The whole premiss of the book is "taking back your faith from the American dream." It is challenging and convicting- easy to read, but not to live out. As I read the book I found myself wanting to live my life differently than I do now but having no idea how to do so. Then I read the last chapter. It's called "The Radical Experiment: One year to a life turned upside down." It is a challenge issued by Platt in which he says,
"I dare you over the next year to...
1. pray for the entire world;
2. read through the entire Word;
3. sacrifice your money for a specific purpose;
4. spend your time in another context;
5. commit your life to a multiplying community."
So I'm going to. Starting tomorrow morning I will begin praying my way through a book called Operation World, which I will give more info about later, and will start a reading plan that will allow me to read the Bible in one year. I will be using my blog as a source of accountability to help keep me on track. If you are currently following my blog and don't necessarily want daily updates on my life I will not be offended if you "un-follow" me. :) I'm really excited (and a little nervous) to get started!
My desire in life is to glorify God, and in order to do that, I must be different.
The Sunday school class I belong to is finishing up a study of the book Radical by David Platt. The whole premiss of the book is "taking back your faith from the American dream." It is challenging and convicting- easy to read, but not to live out. As I read the book I found myself wanting to live my life differently than I do now but having no idea how to do so. Then I read the last chapter. It's called "The Radical Experiment: One year to a life turned upside down." It is a challenge issued by Platt in which he says,
"I dare you over the next year to...
1. pray for the entire world;
2. read through the entire Word;
3. sacrifice your money for a specific purpose;
4. spend your time in another context;
5. commit your life to a multiplying community."
So I'm going to. Starting tomorrow morning I will begin praying my way through a book called Operation World, which I will give more info about later, and will start a reading plan that will allow me to read the Bible in one year. I will be using my blog as a source of accountability to help keep me on track. If you are currently following my blog and don't necessarily want daily updates on my life I will not be offended if you "un-follow" me. :) I'm really excited (and a little nervous) to get started!
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