Congo Line

Congo- DRC (Democratice Republic of Congo)
This country is and will be recovering from a rough and violent past.  There is much restoration that needs to take place- in the structure of the country, in the church, and reconciliation among the nearly 250 people groups.

Congo (west of Congo-DRC)
This country has a Marxist past that they are trying to get over.  Religions were outlawed and children were denied ministry during this time, and the mindset of no religious programs for young people has continued. Pray that the country would be able to look forward and not be stuck in the past.

Cook Islands-
These islands are related to New Zealand.  They have very small populations.  Niue has income from internet earnings, fishing, and agriculture.  Pitcairn is one of the smallest territories in the world.  The population is 50!  I think it's really cool that it still made it into the book, even though it's so small.  Tokelau is dependent on aid, but their main economic endeavor is selling postage stamps.  The islands do have a strong Christian legacy, but it is fading and being replaced by other religions.  Pray for renewal!

2 Kings 9:14-10:31
Whoa.  This was some crazy reading today.  Yesterday, Jehu was anointed king at the end of the reading.  Today, Jehu basically got rid of all the people who had not been following God.  He killed both the kings of Judah and Israel, he wiped out the family of Ahab- all 70 sons, all his great men and close friends and priests, and then all his relatives.  He also called all the Baal worshipers together and then killed them all.  He did all these things out of zeal for the Lord, but then as he reigned he was not careful to walk in the law of the Lord and he caused Israel to sin.

Acts 17
Full of stories of faithful disciples traveling and telling people about Jesus.  The reactions are varied.  Some people got really upset and accused them of having a second king, some wanted to know more and asked questions, and some believed.

Psalm 144
David is recognizing the power of the Lord.  "O Lord, what is man that you regard him, or the son of man that you think of him?"

Proverbs 17:27-28
Restrained lips show knowledge.