A Tree Planted By Water

Libya
Desert country in north Africa.  The discovery of oil changed their economy, but not until sanctions were lifted did it begin to accelerate.  They are moderate in their politics.  Sunni Islam is the state religion and evangelism is illegal.  It is also illegal for more than six people of any faith to meet together in homes.  Praise the Lord for more spiritual liberty that has happened in recent years.  Pray for the leader of this country and for the next to take his place.  Christian growth is mostly foreign.  Pray for pastors who are greatly needed.  Radio is an important ministry and there is a need for a Bible translation in Libyan Arabic.

Jeremiah 16:16-18:23
God talks about destruction and how to avoid it.  If the people will turn to Him they will be fine.  The Lord said, "Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength... he is like a shrub in the desert... in the parched places... in an uninhabited salt land.  Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord... he is like a tree planted by water... and does not fear when heat comes... and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."  I love this contrast of the two choices the people have and what the results will be.  Then next verse says, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick: who can understand it."  We are to trust the Lord, not our hearts.  God talks about how important the Sabbath is, as well, saying that those who do so will not be devoured.  Then Jeremiah is sent to a potter.  The potter is working on something, but it did not keep its shape and was spoiled.  He simply shaped it into something else.  God tells Jeremiah that He has the ability to do the same thing with the people.  As Jeremiah talks to the people they reject him and his words and he asks the Lord to take care of his enemies.

1 Thessalonians 4-5:3
Paul is encouraging the people to continue in their good ways and live a life pleasing to the Lord.  He lists some things to do and not to do.  Then he goes on to explain about people who have already died.  They thought that none would die before Jesus returned.  Paul tells them that they will be raised when Christ comes back and that all will be united in Him.  He also reminds them that no one know when that day will come.

Psalm 81
Talking about the sins of Israel and how they have turned from the Lord.  God says if they would only listen to Him, He would subdue their enemies and feed them and take care of them.

Proverbs 25:6-8
Do not put yourself forward in the presence of the king or the court for you might be put back in your place.