Read: Matthew 25:14–30; Acts 18:1–4, 24–28
It is often thought in Christian circles that the pinnacles of Christian service are evangelism, mission, or some degree of service in the church. Such a lie needs to be dispelled and destroyed in our churches. Now, not to downplay the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) to which all Christians are called, however, not all of us are evangelists, missionaries, or pastors (1 Corinthians 12:29–30).
I want to give particular attention to money and business in the church. Why? Because Jesus gives attention to it, and money and business are usually never looked upon in a positive light. However, the comments made are applicable to any gift, talent, or ability that God gives us. Each one of us is given gifts, talents, and abilities by God. Some will receive more, some will receive less, but each is given gifts according to their ability (Matthew 25:15).
To some, the gift of financial wisdom and business management is given, and this ability, I daresay, is for the multiplication, extension, and investment in Kingdom initiatives. Now, it's not to say every cent must go to the church, that's just bad business practice, but they are fully accountable for how they manage their surplus in light of the eternal Kingdom. There is a reason why Jesus makes a big deal about the relationship between money and a person’s salvation.
We have a number of examples of those who have a godly perspective of their finances. There is Joseph (Acts 4:36–37, in contrast to Ananias and Sapphira, 5:1–10), Dorcas (Acts 9:36–43), Lydia (Acts 16:13-15) and Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:1–4).
What is notable in each of these people is their generosity towards the church and its mission. While it may not be written plainly, I will venture to say that they were exercising their gifts, talents, and abilities in their craft and business management skills for the purposes of the kingdom.
Neither does it suggest business people can’t be active in church life. The example of Aquila and Priscilla reminds us that we are still to take part it the work of discipleship (Acts 18:24–28). They took a rising preacher and teacher, Apollos, and corrected the incorrect ideas he was taught. Apollos goes on to make a significant contribution in the life of the early church, and credit can certainly be given to the input of Aquila and Priscilla.
Each one of us has a part to play in the body of Christ. Whether it be in business, the arts, science, education, law, hospitality, or managing a home, each one of us is to exercise our gifts, talents, and abilities to their fullest extent for the Kingdom of God. If you're unsure about your gifts, or how you might use them in the Kingdom, speak to a more mature believer who might be able to provide you with guidance and wisdom in this matter.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
¥ Praise God for those who serve as volunteers in your church in various ministries. Try to pray for as many of them by name as you can. Pray that God would encourage them in their service for Him and that He would give them wisdom and guidance as they seek to serve Him. Pray that God would grow in your heart and the hearts of the congregation a desire to serve others.
¥ Pray for the older members of the congregation in your church. Pray that God would encourage and strengthen their spirits and their trust in Him. Pray that they would seek to use their age and wisdom to serve others inside and outside the church. Pray that they would have a passion to share Jesus with others.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. What are the most difficult things in your life to sacrifice for the Kingdom? What are the obstacles and barriers to giving these things up for God? (Note: It’s not just material possessions.)
2. How would your local community change if people invested of themselves for the sake of the Kingdom? What are the things you think people will notice if you gave them up? How would people react?
Friday, 2 August 2013
Thursday, 1 August 2013
Thursday 1 August 2013
Jesus Challenge:
Make a list of people in your life who don’t know Christ. Do something practical for them. Maybe take them out for coffee, have them over for dinner, be creative and invest your time, talents, and/or treasures in their lives.
Read: Luke 14:25-35
“In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple”. Luke 14:33
Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu left her family and her home in Albania at age 18 to answer the call of God on her life by joining the Sisters of Loreto, an Irish community of nuns with missions in India. This call would take her far from home for the rest of her life. In fact, Agnes never saw her mother or her sister again.
After spending a number of months learning English in Ireland she travelled to India to work as a teacher in the Lorento Convent School. For the next 20 years Agnes continued to serve as a teacher in the school, eventually becoming headmistress.
One day, while traveling away from the convent, Agnes was overcome with compassion for the millions of poor and suffering people in the slums near her convent. Recognising the call of God on her life again, Agnes left the comfortable, safe life of the convent that she had known for 20 years to live amongst the poor and suffering and minister to them. This was not an easy choice. Agnes writes:
“While looking for a home I walked and walked till my arms and legs ached. I thought how much [the poor] must ache in body and soul, looking for a home, food and health.Then the comfort of Loreto [her former order] came to tempt me. 'You have only to say the word and all that will be yours again,' the Tempter kept on saying ... Of free choice, my God, and out of love for you, I desire to remain and do whatever be your Holy will in my regard.”
For more than 50 years up until her death in 1997 Agnes served the poor, the suffering, the dying and the destitute in India and eventually around the world. However, Agnes work did not escape criticism. She endured vicious criticisms and attacks from people all over the world. The notable atheist Christopher Hitchens even produced a documentary about her which he scathingly titled Hell’s Angel. Agnes had given up her home and family, her security and comfort and finally her reputation for the sake of her calling. Her response to these attacks? “No matter who says what, you should accept it with a smile and do your own work.”
This is what it looks like to give up everything for the sake of a cause. This is what it looks like to forsake family, home, security, comfort and even reputation for the sake of a call from God. Agnes provides an incredible example of what it looks like to truly give up everything to follow Christ.
God rewarded her efforts and her sacrifice for the sake of His kingdom. At the time of her death the organisation that Agnes founded had over 4,300 workers operating 610 missions in 123 countries. Hundreds of thousands of people were ministered to through her work. Agnes was even awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Millions of people around the world now know about Agnes and her work. You might know her as Mother Teresa.
What about you? Are you willing to invest everything you have: your family, your home, your comfort, your security and even your reputation for the sake of God’s Kingdom? Are you willing to give up all of your comforts and treasures, use all of your talents and give all of your time, even your whole life, for the sake of God’s Kingdom?
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God for the example Mother Teresa provides of giving up everything for the sake of God’s kingdom. Pray that God would grow in your heart a desire and a passion to give everything for His sake. Pray that He would use you for His kingdom and that He would give you the courage to allow Him to do so.
¥ Pray for the youth of your church as they begin to plan and dream about their lives. Pray that God would grow in the hearts a desire to spend their whole lives for the sake of His kingdom. Pray that they would be filled with a passion and a hunger for God.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Discuss among your group your understanding of tithes and offerings in the church. What’s the purpose of it? How do you think it should be used? If you’re stuck, read Exodus 35:20–29; Deuteronomy 14:28–29; Matthew 23:23; 1 Corinthians 9:13–14.
2. What sort of attitude should we bring our tithes and offerings? What is God concerned about in your tithes and offerings? Read Psalm 51:16–17; Micah 6:6–8.
Make a list of people in your life who don’t know Christ. Do something practical for them. Maybe take them out for coffee, have them over for dinner, be creative and invest your time, talents, and/or treasures in their lives.
Read: Luke 14:25-35
“In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple”. Luke 14:33
Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu left her family and her home in Albania at age 18 to answer the call of God on her life by joining the Sisters of Loreto, an Irish community of nuns with missions in India. This call would take her far from home for the rest of her life. In fact, Agnes never saw her mother or her sister again.
After spending a number of months learning English in Ireland she travelled to India to work as a teacher in the Lorento Convent School. For the next 20 years Agnes continued to serve as a teacher in the school, eventually becoming headmistress.
One day, while traveling away from the convent, Agnes was overcome with compassion for the millions of poor and suffering people in the slums near her convent. Recognising the call of God on her life again, Agnes left the comfortable, safe life of the convent that she had known for 20 years to live amongst the poor and suffering and minister to them. This was not an easy choice. Agnes writes:
“While looking for a home I walked and walked till my arms and legs ached. I thought how much [the poor] must ache in body and soul, looking for a home, food and health.Then the comfort of Loreto [her former order] came to tempt me. 'You have only to say the word and all that will be yours again,' the Tempter kept on saying ... Of free choice, my God, and out of love for you, I desire to remain and do whatever be your Holy will in my regard.”
For more than 50 years up until her death in 1997 Agnes served the poor, the suffering, the dying and the destitute in India and eventually around the world. However, Agnes work did not escape criticism. She endured vicious criticisms and attacks from people all over the world. The notable atheist Christopher Hitchens even produced a documentary about her which he scathingly titled Hell’s Angel. Agnes had given up her home and family, her security and comfort and finally her reputation for the sake of her calling. Her response to these attacks? “No matter who says what, you should accept it with a smile and do your own work.”
This is what it looks like to give up everything for the sake of a cause. This is what it looks like to forsake family, home, security, comfort and even reputation for the sake of a call from God. Agnes provides an incredible example of what it looks like to truly give up everything to follow Christ.
God rewarded her efforts and her sacrifice for the sake of His kingdom. At the time of her death the organisation that Agnes founded had over 4,300 workers operating 610 missions in 123 countries. Hundreds of thousands of people were ministered to through her work. Agnes was even awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Millions of people around the world now know about Agnes and her work. You might know her as Mother Teresa.
What about you? Are you willing to invest everything you have: your family, your home, your comfort, your security and even your reputation for the sake of God’s Kingdom? Are you willing to give up all of your comforts and treasures, use all of your talents and give all of your time, even your whole life, for the sake of God’s Kingdom?
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God for the example Mother Teresa provides of giving up everything for the sake of God’s kingdom. Pray that God would grow in your heart a desire and a passion to give everything for His sake. Pray that He would use you for His kingdom and that He would give you the courage to allow Him to do so.
¥ Pray for the youth of your church as they begin to plan and dream about their lives. Pray that God would grow in the hearts a desire to spend their whole lives for the sake of His kingdom. Pray that they would be filled with a passion and a hunger for God.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Discuss among your group your understanding of tithes and offerings in the church. What’s the purpose of it? How do you think it should be used? If you’re stuck, read Exodus 35:20–29; Deuteronomy 14:28–29; Matthew 23:23; 1 Corinthians 9:13–14.
2. What sort of attitude should we bring our tithes and offerings? What is God concerned about in your tithes and offerings? Read Psalm 51:16–17; Micah 6:6–8.
Wednesday, 31 July 2013
Wednesday 31 July 2013
Read: Exodus 36:1–7; Mark 12:41–44
Imagine one morning in church, an announcement is made."Enough! We have enough! Stop making your offerings!" I don't know about you, but I'd love to hear this happen in our churches. Why? Well, it's not because I want to stop giving to the church, rather there a million other Kingdom investments I'd love to support throughout the world. What's interesting is that this is actually a possibility in the Western church, whether we see it or not, where we possess the wealth to support our local churches and then some.
Such a situation mirrors the Israelites and the building of the Tabernacle. You see, during the Exodus, the Israelites plundered their Egyptian neighbours of articles of silver and gold and clothing (Exodus 12:35–36). A portion of this plunder now provided the materials for which the Tabernacle would be built. They gave without reservation out of their generosity, and all the materials required for the Tabernacle were provided.
Fast forward to Jesus' day and we see a very different picture. Social class and economic distinctions now exist, the social services God set up in the time of Moses have been ignored (Deuteronomy 14:28–29). As a result, we find a poor widow giving the last of her finances as her final act of worship, in contrast to the rich who gave a pittance of their wealth. I wonder where we would fit in Jesus' scheme and judgment of the rich and the poor widow?
While we may dream of the day a church says, "Enough, stop giving," the reality that the church will always have a work to accomplish until the coming of Christ. However, what we must consider is whether we will play a part in investing in the Kingdom, whether in our local church, or in ministries and missions elsewhere. The resources of the Kingdom have been given into our hands, whether we have plenty or a pittance, we must seriously consider how they are used in our care.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Pray for Rhonda Cox who is still unwell and has recently been in hospital. Pray that God would encourage her and that she would find strength and peace in Him. Pray that God would heal her and that she would recover quickly and fully.
Pray for the MOPS (Mothers of Pre Schoolers) group which is meeting at ChristLife this morning. Pray that God would soften the hearts of the community mums and that they might hear the gospel message through these gatherings. Pray that many would come to know about Christ through these gatherings around the world.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Discuss among your group your understanding of tithes and offerings in the church. What’s the purpose of it? How do you think it should be used? If you’re stuck, read Exodus 35:20–29; Deuteronomy 14:28–29; Matthew 23:23; 1 Corinthians 9:13–14.
2. What sort of attitude should we bring our tithes and offerings? What is God concerned about in your tithes and offerings? Read Psalm 51:16–17; Micah 6:6–8.
Imagine one morning in church, an announcement is made."Enough! We have enough! Stop making your offerings!" I don't know about you, but I'd love to hear this happen in our churches. Why? Well, it's not because I want to stop giving to the church, rather there a million other Kingdom investments I'd love to support throughout the world. What's interesting is that this is actually a possibility in the Western church, whether we see it or not, where we possess the wealth to support our local churches and then some.
Such a situation mirrors the Israelites and the building of the Tabernacle. You see, during the Exodus, the Israelites plundered their Egyptian neighbours of articles of silver and gold and clothing (Exodus 12:35–36). A portion of this plunder now provided the materials for which the Tabernacle would be built. They gave without reservation out of their generosity, and all the materials required for the Tabernacle were provided.
Fast forward to Jesus' day and we see a very different picture. Social class and economic distinctions now exist, the social services God set up in the time of Moses have been ignored (Deuteronomy 14:28–29). As a result, we find a poor widow giving the last of her finances as her final act of worship, in contrast to the rich who gave a pittance of their wealth. I wonder where we would fit in Jesus' scheme and judgment of the rich and the poor widow?
While we may dream of the day a church says, "Enough, stop giving," the reality that the church will always have a work to accomplish until the coming of Christ. However, what we must consider is whether we will play a part in investing in the Kingdom, whether in our local church, or in ministries and missions elsewhere. The resources of the Kingdom have been given into our hands, whether we have plenty or a pittance, we must seriously consider how they are used in our care.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Pray for Rhonda Cox who is still unwell and has recently been in hospital. Pray that God would encourage her and that she would find strength and peace in Him. Pray that God would heal her and that she would recover quickly and fully.
Pray for the MOPS (Mothers of Pre Schoolers) group which is meeting at ChristLife this morning. Pray that God would soften the hearts of the community mums and that they might hear the gospel message through these gatherings. Pray that many would come to know about Christ through these gatherings around the world.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Discuss among your group your understanding of tithes and offerings in the church. What’s the purpose of it? How do you think it should be used? If you’re stuck, read Exodus 35:20–29; Deuteronomy 14:28–29; Matthew 23:23; 1 Corinthians 9:13–14.
2. What sort of attitude should we bring our tithes and offerings? What is God concerned about in your tithes and offerings? Read Psalm 51:16–17; Micah 6:6–8.
Tuesday 30 July 2013
Read: Exodus 35:30-35, Romans 12:3-8
Have you ever thought about the ability to do craft as a gift given by God? Maybe you have a scrapbooking hobby. Have you ever thought that that might be a gift from God? Maybe you are good with your hands, working with wood or metals. Maybe you enjoy playing sport in your spare time. What about the ability to do business? Or the ability to speak publicly? Or the ability to work with children?
These are not things we commonly think about when we consider how God has gifted us to serve His church. Instead we think of the incredible, miraculous gifts. Gifts like preaching, miraculous healings, prophesy, or even, speaking in tongues. Exodus 35 dispels this myth. God specifically gifted Bezalel and Oholiab with “skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.” They were gifted to be able to work with metals, woods and stones; they were gifted by God to be able to teach others these same skills. God is abundantly clear that these are not just ‘natural’ gifts, these are gifts given by him for the work of constructing the tabernacle.
The Bible teaches that every New Testament believer is given the Holy Spirit and is gifted by God to serve the church and grow God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 12:7). These gifts are not limited to miraculous powers, they include all the skills and abilities which God has given each of us. Notice the examples which Paul gives in Romans 12, gifts that we would often think of as natural gifts make up the majority of his list. These are gifts like serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading and showing mercy.
What gifts and talents has God given you? What things are you ‘naturally’ talented at that could be used for God’s kingdom? How can you serve your local church with these gifts? How can you use your skills and talents to share Christ with others? Seek opportunities today to use these skills and abilities to build God’s kingdom.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God for the gifts and talents He provides people for the sake of serving the church. Take a moment to thank God for the skills and abilities He has given you and pray that He would give you wisdom as you seek to use them for His kingdom.
Continue to pray for believers around the world who are suffering intensified persecution during Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer for Muslims. Pray that God would strengthen and encourage those who are being persecuted and give them courage to proclaim their faith.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. What talents do you think God gave you? What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? What are you passionate about? Do you consider these talents? Discuss and explore the variety of gifts, talents, and abilities in your group.
2. What opportunities might this give you to engage with people? What opportunities might this give you to serve in your local church? What opportunities might you have in your local community? Be creative.
Have you ever thought about the ability to do craft as a gift given by God? Maybe you have a scrapbooking hobby. Have you ever thought that that might be a gift from God? Maybe you are good with your hands, working with wood or metals. Maybe you enjoy playing sport in your spare time. What about the ability to do business? Or the ability to speak publicly? Or the ability to work with children?
These are not things we commonly think about when we consider how God has gifted us to serve His church. Instead we think of the incredible, miraculous gifts. Gifts like preaching, miraculous healings, prophesy, or even, speaking in tongues. Exodus 35 dispels this myth. God specifically gifted Bezalel and Oholiab with “skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.” They were gifted to be able to work with metals, woods and stones; they were gifted by God to be able to teach others these same skills. God is abundantly clear that these are not just ‘natural’ gifts, these are gifts given by him for the work of constructing the tabernacle.
The Bible teaches that every New Testament believer is given the Holy Spirit and is gifted by God to serve the church and grow God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 12:7). These gifts are not limited to miraculous powers, they include all the skills and abilities which God has given each of us. Notice the examples which Paul gives in Romans 12, gifts that we would often think of as natural gifts make up the majority of his list. These are gifts like serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading and showing mercy.
What gifts and talents has God given you? What things are you ‘naturally’ talented at that could be used for God’s kingdom? How can you serve your local church with these gifts? How can you use your skills and talents to share Christ with others? Seek opportunities today to use these skills and abilities to build God’s kingdom.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God for the gifts and talents He provides people for the sake of serving the church. Take a moment to thank God for the skills and abilities He has given you and pray that He would give you wisdom as you seek to use them for His kingdom.
Continue to pray for believers around the world who are suffering intensified persecution during Ramadan, a month of fasting and prayer for Muslims. Pray that God would strengthen and encourage those who are being persecuted and give them courage to proclaim their faith.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. What talents do you think God gave you? What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? What are you passionate about? Do you consider these talents? Discuss and explore the variety of gifts, talents, and abilities in your group.
2. What opportunities might this give you to engage with people? What opportunities might this give you to serve in your local church? What opportunities might you have in your local community? Be creative.
Tuesday, 30 July 2013
Monday 29 July 2013
Read: Genesis 39:20b–23; Acts 16:25–34
There are 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week, and 52 weeks in a year. That's 8,736 hours in a year. Assuming you sleep around 8 hours a day, that's still 5,824 hours left for activity. Let's give another 8 hours to school, home management or work and we're still left with 2,912 hours left. Let's set aside half of that for meals, family, and friends, and we're still left with 1,456 hours (that's about 4 hours a day). Yet, funnily enough, we still find ourselves saying, "I just don't have the time, I'm too busy!" The problem is not that we are too busy, but rather, our priorities are not what they should be.
We are given two great illustrations of this principle in the lives of Joseph, Paul and Silas. Despite their respective imprisonments, despite the situations in which they found themselves, their priority and focus remained unchanged. For Joseph, he continued to remain faithful in character and practice despite the charges against his character, resulting in his charge over the prison inmates. In the midst of an opportunity to escape from their imprisonment, Paul and Silas remained in chains so that they might proclaim the gospel to the jailer.
Joseph, Paul, and Silas made use of their time and talents for the purposes of God. Joseph, Paul, and Silas were no different to you and I, offering nothing less than what God had given them. Paul and Silas, however, challenge us in another way. What is more important than the salvation of the souls around us, no matter our place and circumstance. Likewise, we are called to make disciples as we travel along the path of life (Matthew 28:19).
How will you invest your time and your talents this week? Will you serve willingly in the places God takes you? Will you dare to speak words of life to the people you encounter this week? Sit down and consider how much time you really have to give and invest in God's Kingdom and His purposes.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God for the life He has given you and the time that you have been blessed with. Pray that God would grow in your heart and the hearts of all in the congregation a desire to spend your whole life for His Kingdom. Pray that He would give you wisdom as you seek to set Godly priorities for your time.
Continue to pray for the Cobby family as they grieve the loss of their son Matt. Pray that God would give them comfort and peace in Himself during this time of grief. Pray that the gospel message proclaimed at his funeral would bear much fruit in the lives of those who attended.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Sit down and do a rough schedule of how you use your time each week. How much of that time is at church? How much time is given to Kingdom priorities? How much of your time can include or overlap with Kingdom opportunities?
2. What are some things that either require greater increase in your time comment for Kingdom opportunities? What are some things that you might sacrifice so that you can engage more with Kingdom opportunities?
There are 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week, and 52 weeks in a year. That's 8,736 hours in a year. Assuming you sleep around 8 hours a day, that's still 5,824 hours left for activity. Let's give another 8 hours to school, home management or work and we're still left with 2,912 hours left. Let's set aside half of that for meals, family, and friends, and we're still left with 1,456 hours (that's about 4 hours a day). Yet, funnily enough, we still find ourselves saying, "I just don't have the time, I'm too busy!" The problem is not that we are too busy, but rather, our priorities are not what they should be.
We are given two great illustrations of this principle in the lives of Joseph, Paul and Silas. Despite their respective imprisonments, despite the situations in which they found themselves, their priority and focus remained unchanged. For Joseph, he continued to remain faithful in character and practice despite the charges against his character, resulting in his charge over the prison inmates. In the midst of an opportunity to escape from their imprisonment, Paul and Silas remained in chains so that they might proclaim the gospel to the jailer.
Joseph, Paul, and Silas made use of their time and talents for the purposes of God. Joseph, Paul, and Silas were no different to you and I, offering nothing less than what God had given them. Paul and Silas, however, challenge us in another way. What is more important than the salvation of the souls around us, no matter our place and circumstance. Likewise, we are called to make disciples as we travel along the path of life (Matthew 28:19).
How will you invest your time and your talents this week? Will you serve willingly in the places God takes you? Will you dare to speak words of life to the people you encounter this week? Sit down and consider how much time you really have to give and invest in God's Kingdom and His purposes.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God for the life He has given you and the time that you have been blessed with. Pray that God would grow in your heart and the hearts of all in the congregation a desire to spend your whole life for His Kingdom. Pray that He would give you wisdom as you seek to set Godly priorities for your time.
Continue to pray for the Cobby family as they grieve the loss of their son Matt. Pray that God would give them comfort and peace in Himself during this time of grief. Pray that the gospel message proclaimed at his funeral would bear much fruit in the lives of those who attended.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Sit down and do a rough schedule of how you use your time each week. How much of that time is at church? How much time is given to Kingdom priorities? How much of your time can include or overlap with Kingdom opportunities?
2. What are some things that either require greater increase in your time comment for Kingdom opportunities? What are some things that you might sacrifice so that you can engage more with Kingdom opportunities?
Saturday, 27 July 2013
Saturday 27 July 2013
Read: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
Joni Eareckson Tada is the founder and CEO of Joni and Friends International Disability Center, and an international advocate for people with disabilities. She is awarded with several honorary degrees, including: Bachelor of Letters, Doctor of Humanities, Doctor of Humane Letters, Doctor of Divinity, and a Doctor of Humanitarian Services. Talk about an honour roll!
Jesus said to Paul (v. 9):
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
If anyone is able to fully appreciate what Jesus said, it is Joni. In 1967, at 17, Joni had a diving accident which left her a quadriplegic in a wheelchair. Where Paul was given a thorn in the flesh (v. 7), Joni lives with a thorn in her spine. As if were not enough, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010. Despite these things, Joni still gives of her time, talents, and treasures for the Kingdom, making a difference with the gospel message of Jesus Christ in the lives of people who live with disability and their families.
As Paul boasted, as Joni would boast, and so shall I also boast about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me (v. 9). Will you? Will you delight in your weakness? In the insults of the world around us? In the hardships of life and faith? In the persecutions of society? In the persecutions of our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world? In the difficulties of each day? Are you able to say, in confidence, "When I am weak, then I am strong?"
My brother, my sister, will you allow Christ to do something amazing with your life? Let Him take the things that are broken in your life, the things that are weak, and let Him you and your weaknesses for great things and be a blessing to this broken world.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Spend some time to praise God that He promises to use the brokenness and weaknesses of your life for the sake of His kingdom. Praise God that His power is made perfect in weakness. Pray that He would help you to be joyful despite trials and difficulties in your life and that you would look to Him for strength and comfort.
Pray for the gathering of the church tomorrow around the world. Pray that the gospel would be preached with power and authority. Pray that many who don’t know Christ would come to know Him through the preaching of the word. Pray that believers all over the world would be encouraged and strengthened by the preaching of the word.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Spend some time discussing God’s great grace to us. Share with each other how you came to know Jesus.
2. Are there situations in your life where you do not forgive others? Share those with the group.
Joni Eareckson Tada is the founder and CEO of Joni and Friends International Disability Center, and an international advocate for people with disabilities. She is awarded with several honorary degrees, including: Bachelor of Letters, Doctor of Humanities, Doctor of Humane Letters, Doctor of Divinity, and a Doctor of Humanitarian Services. Talk about an honour roll!
Jesus said to Paul (v. 9):
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
If anyone is able to fully appreciate what Jesus said, it is Joni. In 1967, at 17, Joni had a diving accident which left her a quadriplegic in a wheelchair. Where Paul was given a thorn in the flesh (v. 7), Joni lives with a thorn in her spine. As if were not enough, she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010. Despite these things, Joni still gives of her time, talents, and treasures for the Kingdom, making a difference with the gospel message of Jesus Christ in the lives of people who live with disability and their families.
As Paul boasted, as Joni would boast, and so shall I also boast about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me (v. 9). Will you? Will you delight in your weakness? In the insults of the world around us? In the hardships of life and faith? In the persecutions of society? In the persecutions of our brothers and sisters in Christ around the world? In the difficulties of each day? Are you able to say, in confidence, "When I am weak, then I am strong?"
My brother, my sister, will you allow Christ to do something amazing with your life? Let Him take the things that are broken in your life, the things that are weak, and let Him you and your weaknesses for great things and be a blessing to this broken world.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Spend some time to praise God that He promises to use the brokenness and weaknesses of your life for the sake of His kingdom. Praise God that His power is made perfect in weakness. Pray that He would help you to be joyful despite trials and difficulties in your life and that you would look to Him for strength and comfort.
Pray for the gathering of the church tomorrow around the world. Pray that the gospel would be preached with power and authority. Pray that many who don’t know Christ would come to know Him through the preaching of the word. Pray that believers all over the world would be encouraged and strengthened by the preaching of the word.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Spend some time discussing God’s great grace to us. Share with each other how you came to know Jesus.
2. Are there situations in your life where you do not forgive others? Share those with the group.
Friday, 26 July 2013
Friday 26 July 2013
Read: Philemon 1:8-21
It's a classic scene—the kids are in the park playing a team game, and the two sides begin to form. Naturally, their closest friends are chosen. The bigger, stronger, faster kids are next. And then, the small and timid ones are left. The selection begins to waver and the decisions are slower to come.
The great irony of God's ways continues to amaze me. He quickly and firmly sets his eyes on the weak, timid, unseemly, and the unsightly of this world and makes them into amazing stories of power, authority, and transformation. This is the story of Onesimus.
A runaway slave, belonging to Philemon (v. 15-16), ends up in the presence of the apostle Paul. During his time with Paul, he encounters the life-transforming love of Christ, and gives his life to Christ (v. 10). Furthermore, Paul takes him on as one of his ministry partners! (v. 11-13) Imagine going from slavery to working alongside the apostle Paul!
Over 2000 years and God's ways haven't changed. In fact, they are very much the same. He takes the weak and overlooked people of this world, and transforms them into powerful tools for the Kingdom. John Piper in person is scrawny shadow of a man (with all due respect), but preaches and teaches with passion and fire, his ministry reaching the ears of an international audience.
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. — 1 Corinthians 14:27—29
In the same way, look around you and see if you notice where God is most at work. Don't look towards the front of the church or the names listed in the ministry teams, look around and see if you can see the servants of the Kingdom: the poor in spirit, the mourners, the meek, the quiet who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, the persecuted (Matthew 5:3-10).
If you ever doubted your place in the Kingdom, do so no more. God's plan for you is perfect, He chose you to be on His team, and you may not see it now, but continue to be faithful and trust that He will use you in awesome ways.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God that He has a plan and a place for you and each member of the church community. Pray that He would give you wisdom as you seek the best way to serve others in the church. Pray that He would show you opportunities to encourage other members of the church body.
Pray for all those members of the church congregation who are sick. Pray that they would find their comfort and peace in God at this time. Pray that they would be healed from their illness by God’s spirit and that they would be restored to strength. Pray that God would raise a spirit of compassion and service in the hearts of the congregation towards these people.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Spend some time discussing God’s great grace to us. Share with each other how you came to know Jesus.
2. Are there situations in your life where you do not forgive others? Share those with the group.
It's a classic scene—the kids are in the park playing a team game, and the two sides begin to form. Naturally, their closest friends are chosen. The bigger, stronger, faster kids are next. And then, the small and timid ones are left. The selection begins to waver and the decisions are slower to come.
The great irony of God's ways continues to amaze me. He quickly and firmly sets his eyes on the weak, timid, unseemly, and the unsightly of this world and makes them into amazing stories of power, authority, and transformation. This is the story of Onesimus.
A runaway slave, belonging to Philemon (v. 15-16), ends up in the presence of the apostle Paul. During his time with Paul, he encounters the life-transforming love of Christ, and gives his life to Christ (v. 10). Furthermore, Paul takes him on as one of his ministry partners! (v. 11-13) Imagine going from slavery to working alongside the apostle Paul!
Over 2000 years and God's ways haven't changed. In fact, they are very much the same. He takes the weak and overlooked people of this world, and transforms them into powerful tools for the Kingdom. John Piper in person is scrawny shadow of a man (with all due respect), but preaches and teaches with passion and fire, his ministry reaching the ears of an international audience.
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. — 1 Corinthians 14:27—29
In the same way, look around you and see if you notice where God is most at work. Don't look towards the front of the church or the names listed in the ministry teams, look around and see if you can see the servants of the Kingdom: the poor in spirit, the mourners, the meek, the quiet who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, the persecuted (Matthew 5:3-10).
If you ever doubted your place in the Kingdom, do so no more. God's plan for you is perfect, He chose you to be on His team, and you may not see it now, but continue to be faithful and trust that He will use you in awesome ways.
Prayer:
Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.
Adoration:
Confession:
Thanks:
Supplication:
Praise God that He has a plan and a place for you and each member of the church community. Pray that He would give you wisdom as you seek the best way to serve others in the church. Pray that He would show you opportunities to encourage other members of the church body.
Pray for all those members of the church congregation who are sick. Pray that they would find their comfort and peace in God at this time. Pray that they would be healed from their illness by God’s spirit and that they would be restored to strength. Pray that God would raise a spirit of compassion and service in the hearts of the congregation towards these people.
My Additional Prayer Points.
1/.
2/.
Discussion Questions For Families and Groups
1. Spend some time discussing God’s great grace to us. Share with each other how you came to know Jesus.
2. Are there situations in your life where you do not forgive others? Share those with the group.
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