Unto the Nations

I have fallen behind in Operation World, so today is catch up day:

French Guiana-
In South America.  Sparsely populated jungle country that used to be used and known as a penal colony.  Now the major source of income is the space center/launch facility used by the European Space Agency.  As this country emerges it moves toward secularism and has many people groups that need to be reached.

French Polynesia-
Five islands in the Pacific.  The economy is heavily dependent on aid.  At one time, there was nuclear weapons testing happening that was very controversial.  Religious freedom, but moving towards secularism.  Pray for revival and openness in this country.

Gabon-
African country with much rain forest.  They are rich in natural resources, but the wealth is not distributed to all.  The former president ruled for four decades and was the world's longest ruling politician.  His adopted son is now president.  The former president converted to Islam and his son is even more devout.  The number of Muslim believers continues to grow.  Pray for revived dominance of the Catholic church and genuine faith among believers.

The Gambia-
Very narrow country in Africa that basically is in the center of Senegal around a river, separating it from Senegal.  There are several people groups.  Freedom of religion with Muslim majority.  Pray for continued freedoms and for believers to demonstrate and share the gospel with all people in the country.  There are several unreached people groups.

Proverbs 19:27-20:1
Going back a couple of days, there are some verses I really liked.
v. 21 "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand."  This is so encouraging to know that God's will is what will be done even though we have a million thoughts in our head!
v. 22 "What is desired in a man is steadfast love, and a poor man is better than a liar."  This verse makes me think of my Tim and how loving and honest he is with me.  How blessed I am to have a man of the Lord!!
Today's verse speaks about being led astray by strong drink and how it is unwise.

Psalm 18, Psalm 19
18- David is writing about the power and greatness of the Lord.  Then he speaks about things the Lord has done for him, and specifically how He has given him victory over his enemies.
19- v. 1 "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." Then there is talk about the perfect law and how it leads us to the Lord.  Then, the last verse says, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."

Romans 8:26-9:24
Romans has some pretty thick stuff in it.  I usually have to read it more than once to let all sink in.  Today is one of those days, for sure!  There are things in this passage that speak so much to my heart: the Spirit intercedes on our behalf when we have no words.  And even better, He intercedes according to the will of God, so even when our prayers are not quick to come, the Spirit makes sure they are in line with the will of God.  Later on, it says, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"  He is so powerful and mighty that no one stands a chance against the will of the Lord!  And what shall separate us from Him?  Not tribulation or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword, "neither death nor life, nor angels nor fullers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."  That just makes me excited!!!!!  Then next part talks about how God chooses what will happen in our lives.  He decides who will receive mercy and that is His right, just as the potter has the right to decide what each vessel will look like.

Chronicles 11-16
Rehoboam became kings after his father Solomon.  He did not follow the Lord or keep His commands.  Then Abijah was the next king of Judah.  He fought against Israel and his small numbers defeated their large numbers.  After Abijah was Asa.  He loved the Lord and built many things and prospered.  A prophet told him that the Lord said as long as they were following Him, He would be with them.  So Asa did many things to lead the people before God.  Toward the end of his life, though, he started doing things his own way and not turning to the Lord.

Georgia-
Small country between Turkey and Russia.  Industry, service, and agriculture all have equal roles in the economy.  Politically unstable- independent in 1991, in 1995 a dictatorial president prompted the rose revolution of 2003.  Now there are two breakaway regions that do not get along.  One region is recognized and backed by Russia.  Pray for the church that is struggling right now.  The Church needs unity, battles poverty, and has trouble reaching the younger generation.  Pray also that more Christian materials would be readily available.