Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Proverbs 14 (New International Version)




Proverbs 14

1 The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.

2 He whose walk is upright fears the LORD, but he whose ways are devious despises him.

3 A fool's talk brings a rod to his back, but the lips of the wise protect them.

4 Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest.

5 A truthful witness does not deceive, but a false witness pours out lies.

6 The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none, but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.

7 Stay away from a foolish man, for you will not find knowledge on his lips.

8 The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.

9 Fools mock at making amends for sin, but goodwill is found among the upright.

10 Each heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can share its joy.

11 The house of the wicked will be destroyed, but the tent of the upright will flourish.

12 There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

13 Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief.

14 The faithless will be fully repaid for their ways, and the good man rewarded for his.

15 A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps.

16 A wise man fears the LORD and shuns evil, but a fool is hotheaded and reckless.

17 A quick-tempered man does foolish things, and a crafty man is hated.

18 The simple inherit folly, but the prudent are crowned with knowledge.

19 Evil men will bow down in the presence of the good, and the wicked at the gates of the righteous.

20 The poor are shunned even by their neighbors, but the rich have many friends.

21 He who despises his neighbor sins, but blessed is he who is kind to the needy.

22 Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find [a] love and faithfulness.

23 All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.

24 The wealth of the wise is their crown, but the folly of fools yields folly.

25 A truthful witness saves lives, but a false witness is deceitful.

26 He who fears the LORD has a secure fortress, and for his children it will be a refuge.

27 The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.

28 A large population is a king's glory, but without subjects a prince is ruined.

29 A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.

30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.

31 He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.

32 When calamity comes, the wicked are brought down, but even in death the righteous have a refuge.

33 Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known. [b]

34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.

35 A king delights in a wise servant, but a shameful servant incurs his wrath.
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Psalm 138 (New International Version)




Psalm 138

Of David.

1 I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise.
2 I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.

3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.

4 May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth.

5 May they sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great.

6 Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.

7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.

8 The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.
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AFWIS Joins Operation World in Prayer for the Republic of El Salvador in Latin America

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > May 14: El Salvador

May 14: El Salvador

El Salvador

Republic of El Salvador

Latin America

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 21,041 sq km
21,041 sq km on the Pacific Coast of Central America. The smallest and most-densely populated Spanish-speaking mainland state in the Americas. Sub-tropical and susceptible to earthquakes.
Population: 6,194,126    Annual Growth: 0.44%
Capital: San Salvador
Urbanites: 61.3%
HDI Rank: 106 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 13 (15% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Spanish    Languages: 7 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians5,861,50194.630.4
Evangelicals1,960,40531.64.5

Answer to Prayer

The astonishing increase of evangelicals during the war has continued, albeit at a slower rate. Evangelicals were but 2.3% of the population in 1960, leaping to 32% in 2010. Some of Latin America’s largest megachurches are found in El Salvador.
     For an additional Answer to Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

Challenge for Prayer

Rapid social and demographic shifts are changing the face of the country and require prayer and action. Most notable among them are the following:
a) The 3.3 million Salvadoreans living abroad, many in the USA. Their remittances sent home keep many out of poverty, yet they have spiritual needs of their own. Many are working illegally and are vulnerable to exploitation. Their absence has also triggered social shifts back home.
b) The new urban population. In one generation, El Salvador has gone from a predominantly agrarian, rural society to one in which 60% live in cities. This flow to the cities generates new challenges regarding infrastructure, crime and poverty.
c) The large numbers of youth involved with the powerful maras. These gangs have attracted up to 70% of young men, partially orphaned by absent fathers. The Church finds that reaching the 15-30 age bracket is particularly difficult with its current methods. New methods must be adopted or an unchurched generation will quickly emerge in El Salvador.
d) The massive megachurches, such as Elim and Tabernáculo BÍblico Bautista, both of which have grown from almost nothing to over 100,000 affiliates in their wider networks. With significant financial and political clout, these cell-based churches have the opportunity to powerfully and positively influence society.
     For an additional 6 Challenges for Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

More Information

The Operation World book, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM provide far more information and fuel for prayer for the people of El Salvador.
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Job 18 (New International Version)



Job 18

Bildad

1 Then Bildad the Shuhite replied:
2 "When will you end these speeches? Be sensible, and then we can talk.

3 Why are we regarded as cattle and considered stupid in your sight?

4 You who tear yourself to pieces in your anger, is the earth to be abandoned for your sake? Or must the rocks be moved from their place?

5 "The lamp of the wicked is snuffed out; the flame of his fire stops burning.

6 The light in his tent becomes dark; the lamp beside him goes out.

7 The vigor of his step is weakened; his own schemes throw him down.

8 His feet thrust him into a net and he wanders into its mesh.

9 A trap seizes him by the heel; a snare holds him fast.

10 A noose is hidden for him on the ground; a trap lies in his path.

11 Terrors startle him on every side and dog his every step.

12 Calamity is hungry for him; disaster is ready for him when he falls.

13 It eats away parts of his skin; death's firstborn devours his limbs.

14 He is torn from the security of his tent and marched off to the king of terrors.

15 Fire resides [a] in his tent; burning sulfur is scattered over his dwelling.

16 His roots dry up below and his branches wither above.

17 The memory of him perishes from the earth; he has no name in the land.

18 He is driven from light into darkness and is banished from the world.

19 He has no offspring or descendants among his people, no survivor where once he lived.

20 Men of the west are appalled at his fate; men of the east are seized with horror.

21 Surely such is the dwelling of an evil man; such is the place of one who knows not God."
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Monday, May 13, 2013

AFWIS Joins Operation World in Prayer for the Arab Republic of Egypt in Africa

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > May 13: Egypt

May 13: Egypt

Egypt

Arab Republic of Egypt

Africa

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 997,739 sq km
Mostly desert; only 3% is arable land – along the banks and delta of the Nile River and around the Western Desert oases.
Population: 84,474,427    Annual Growth: 1.83%
Capital: Cairo
Urbanites: 42.8%
HDI Rank: 123 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 39 (59% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Arabic    Languages: 27 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Muslim
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians10,838,06912.831.4
Evangelicals3,282,6463.94.6
Muslim73,213,98686.67 
Prayercast

Answer to Prayer

A prayer and renewal movement has burst onto the scene in recent years with many thousands from all the major churches participating, even to the top level of church leadership. This cultivates unity, spiritual vitality and vision for outreach in Egypt and beyond.
     For an additional 3 Answers to Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

Challenge for Prayer

The Coptic Church is by far the largest body of Christians in the Middle East and is a strategic key for the evangelization of the region. Pray for:
a) Church leaders, especially the Coptic Pope. Wisdom, grace and confidence are needed in handling the Muslim authorities, Islamist persecution and the questioning world. A close walk with God is essential to be both a bridge between communities and an example to their flock.
b) A spiritual awakening Church-wide in the midst of mounting pressures and communal tensions. Many Copts are very nominal. The responses to Muslim agitation need to be humble and loving but strong, and only those walking in faith are capable of this.
c) The biblically based renewal movement in the Coptic Church, which has steadily gained momentum since 1930. It strongly emphasizes Bible study and personal faith, and many are fervent witnesses for the Lord. Monasticism sees a rejuvenation as well. Pray for the growth and effectiveness of this movement of the Spirit.
d) Christians are numerous in business, the professions and health services, but overall the Coptic influence within Egypt is much less than their large numbers warrant. Pray that Copts might have a positive and transforming effect in the nation, just as Joseph did millennia ago.
     For an additional 12 Challenges for Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

More Information

The Operation World book, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM provide far more information and fuel for prayer for the people of Egypt.
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Job 17 (New International Version)



Job 17

1 My spirit is broken, my days are cut short, the grave awaits me.

2 Surely mockers surround me; my eyes must dwell on their hostility.

3 "Give me, O God, the pledge you demand. Who else will put up security for me?

4 You have closed their minds to understanding; therefore you will not let them triumph.

5 If a man denounces his friends for reward, the eyes of his children will fail.

6 "God has made me a byword to everyone, a man in whose face people spit.

7 My eyes have grown dim with grief; my whole frame is but a shadow.

8 Upright men are appalled at this; the innocent are aroused against the ungodly.

9 Nevertheless, the righteous will hold to their ways, and those with clean hands will grow stronger.

10 "But come on, all of you, try again! I will not find a wise man among you.

11 My days have passed, my plans are shattered, and so are the desires of my heart.

12 These men turn night into day; in the face of darkness they say, 'Light is near.'

13 If the only home I hope for is the grave, [a] if I spread out my bed in darkness,

14 if I say to corruption, 'You are my father,' and to the worm, 'My mother' or 'My sister,'

15 where then is my hope? Who can see any hope for me?

16 Will it go down to the gates of death [b] ? Will we descend together into the dust?"
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Job 16 (New International Version)



Job 16

Job

1 Then Job replied:
2 "I have heard many things like these; miserable comforters are you all!

3 Will your long-winded speeches never end? What ails you that you keep on arguing?

4 I also could speak like you, if you were in my place; I could make fine speeches against you and shake my head at you.

5 But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.

6 "Yet if I speak, my pain is not relieved; and if I refrain, it does not go away.

7 Surely, O God, you have worn me out; you have devastated my entire household.

8 You have bound me—and it has become a witness; my gauntness rises up and testifies against me.

9 God assails me and tears me in his anger and gnashes his teeth at me; my opponent fastens on me his piercing eyes.

10 Men open their mouths to jeer at me; they strike my cheek in scorn and unite together against me.

11 God has turned me over to evil men and thrown me into the clutches of the wicked.

12 All was well with me, but he shattered me; he seized me by the neck and crushed me. He has made me his target;

13 his archers surround me. Without pity, he pierces my kidneys and spills my gall on the ground.

14 Again and again he bursts upon me; he rushes at me like a warrior.

15 "I have sewed sackcloth over my skin and buried my brow in the dust.

16 My face is red with weeping, deep shadows ring my eyes;

17 yet my hands have been free of violence and my prayer is pure.

18 "O earth, do not cover my blood; may my cry never be laid to rest!

19 Even now my witness is in heaven; my advocate is on high.

20 My intercessor is my friend [a] as my eyes pour out tears to God;

21 on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend.

22 "Only a few years will pass before I go on the journey of no return.
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Job 15 (New International Version)




Job 15

Eliphaz

1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite replied:
2 "Would a wise man answer with empty notions or fill his belly with the hot east wind?

3 Would he argue with useless words, with speeches that have no value?

4 But you even undermine piety and hinder devotion to God.

5 Your sin prompts your mouth; you adopt the tongue of the crafty.

6 Your own mouth condemns you, not mine; your own lips testify against you.

7 "Are you the first man ever born? Were you brought forth before the hills?

8 Do you listen in on God's council? Do you limit wisdom to yourself?

9 What do you know that we do not know? What insights do you have that we do not have?

10 The gray-haired and the aged are on our side, men even older than your father.

11 Are God's consolations not enough for you, words spoken gently to you?

12 Why has your heart carried you away, and why do your eyes flash,

13 so that you vent your rage against God and pour out such words from your mouth?

14 "What is man, that he could be pure, or one born of woman, that he could be righteous?

15 If God places no trust in his holy ones, if even the heavens are not pure in his eyes,

16 how much less man, who is vile and corrupt, who drinks up evil like water!

17 "Listen to me and I will explain to you; let me tell you what I have seen,

18 what wise men have declared, hiding nothing received from their fathers

19 (to whom alone the land was given when no alien passed among them):

20 All his days the wicked man suffers torment, the ruthless through all the years stored up for him.

21 Terrifying sounds fill his ears; when all seems well, marauders attack him.

22 He despairs of escaping the darkness; he is marked for the sword.

23 He wanders about—food for vultures [a] ; he knows the day of darkness is at hand.

24 Distress and anguish fill him with terror; they overwhelm him, like a king poised to attack,

25 because he shakes his fist at God and vaunts himself against the Almighty,

26 defiantly charging against him with a thick, strong shield.

27 "Though his face is covered with fat and his waist bulges with flesh,

28 he will inhabit ruined towns and houses where no one lives, houses crumbling to rubble.

29 He will no longer be rich and his wealth will not endure, nor will his possessions spread over the land.

30 He will not escape the darkness; a flame will wither his shoots, and the breath of God's mouth will carry him away.

31 Let him not deceive himself by trusting what is worthless, for he will get nothing in return.

32 Before his time he will be paid in full, and his branches will not flourish.

33 He will be like a vine stripped of its unripe grapes, like an olive tree shedding its blossoms.

34 For the company of the godless will be barren, and fire will consume the tents of those who love bribes.

35 They conceive trouble and give birth to evil; their womb fashions deceit."
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Wisdom Speaks...

 

Proverbs 13


1 A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke. 2 From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but the unfaithful have a craving for violence. 3 He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin. 4 The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied. 5 The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace. 6 Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner. 7 One man pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth. 8 A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat. 9 The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out. 10 Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. 11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow. 12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. 13 He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded. 14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death. 15 Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard. 16 Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly. 17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing. 18 He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored. 19 A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil. 20 He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. 21 Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous. 22 A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous. 23 A poor man's field may produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away. 24 He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him. 25 The righteous eat to their hearts' content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.
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Proverbs 13 (New International Version)



Proverbs 13

1 A wise son heeds his father's instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke.

2 From the fruit of his lips a man enjoys good things, but the unfaithful have a craving for violence.

3 He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.

4 The sluggard craves and gets nothing, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.

5 The righteous hate what is false, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace.

6 Righteousness guards the man of integrity, but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

7 One man pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.

8 A man's riches may ransom his life, but a poor man hears no threat.

9 The light of the righteous shines brightly, but the lamp of the wicked is snuffed out.

10 Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.

11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but he who gathers money little by little makes it grow.

12 Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.

13 He who scorns instruction will pay for it, but he who respects a command is rewarded.

14 The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.

15 Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard. [a]

16 Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly.

17 A wicked messenger falls into trouble, but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.

18 He who ignores discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.

19 A longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul, but fools detest turning from evil.

20 He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.

21 Misfortune pursues the sinner, but prosperity is the reward of the righteous.

22 A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children, but a sinner's wealth is stored up for the righteous.

23 A poor man's field may produce abundant food, but injustice sweeps it away.

24 He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him.

25 The righteous eat to their hearts' content, but the stomach of the wicked goes hungry.
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Psalm 137 (New International Version)





Psalm 137

1 By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion.

2 There on the poplars we hung our harps,

3 for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy; they said, "Sing us one of the songs of Zion!"

4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD while in a foreign land?

5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill .

6 May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not consider Jerusalem my highest joy.

7 Remember, O LORD, what the Edomites did on the day Jerusalem fell. "Tear it down," they cried, "tear it down to its foundations!"

8 O Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction, happy is he who repays you for what you have done to us-

9 he who seizes your infants and dashes them against the rocks.
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Sunday, May 12, 2013

AFWIS Joins Operation World in Prayer for Arab Republic of Egypt - Africa

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > May 12: Egypt

May 12: Egypt

Egypt

Arab Republic of Egypt

 

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 997,739 sq km
Mostly desert; only 3% is arable land – along the banks and delta of the Nile River and around the Western Desert oases.
Population: 84,474,427    Annual Growth: 1.83%
Capital: Cairo
Urbanites: 42.8%
HDI Rank: 123 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 39 (59% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Arabic    Languages: 27 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Muslim
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians10,838,06912.831.4
Evangelicals3,282,6463.94.6
Muslim73,213,98686.67 
Prayercast

Answer to Prayer

The innovative use of electronic media through websites, chat rooms, satellite TV and mobile phone downloads has opened a way for millions of Muslims to hear the gospel clearly, in safer environments for true seekers. Signs indicate a very widespread response.
     For an additional 3 Answers to Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

Challenge for Prayer

Egypt is arguably the intellectual centre of Sunni Islam, and Islamist groups such as The Brotherhood have grown greatly as they push for a more Islamic state. Their slogan (now “illegal”), “Islam is the solution”, will never actually be tested unless they attain power. The stridency and harshness of some of their teachings and actions cause many to question this, yet they are also generous providers of social welfare. Pray that their leaders, their members and those disillusioned with conflict might discover the Light of the World.
     For an additional 12 Challenges for Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

More Information

The Operation World book, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM provide far more information and fuel for prayer for the people of Egypt.
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Job 14 (New International Version)




Job 14

1 "Man born of woman is of few days and full of trouble.

2 He springs up like a flower and withers away; like a fleeting shadow, he does not endure.

3 Do you fix your eye on such a one? Will you bring him [a] before you for judgment?

4 Who can bring what is pure from the impure? No one!

5 Man's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.

6 So look away from him and let him alone, till he has put in his time like a hired man.

7 "At least there is hope for a tree: If it is cut down, it will sprout again, and its new shoots will not fail.

8 Its roots may grow old in the ground and its stump die in the soil,

9 yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth shoots like a plant.

10 But man dies and is laid low; he breathes his last and is no more.

11 As water disappears from the sea or a riverbed becomes parched and dry,

12 so man lies down and does not rise; till the heavens are no more, men will not awake or be roused from their sleep.

13 "If only you would hide me in the grave [b] and conceal me till your anger has passed! If only you would set me a time and then remember me!

14 If a man dies, will he live again? All the days of my hard service I will wait for my renewal [c] to come.

15 You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made.

16 Surely then you will count my steps but not keep track of my sin.

17 My offenses will be sealed up in a bag; you will cover over my sin.

18 "But as a mountain erodes and crumbles and as a rock is moved from its place,

19 as water wears away stones and torrents wash away the soil, so you destroy man's hope.

20 You overpower him once for all, and he is gone; you change his countenance and send him away.

21 If his sons are honored, he does not know it; if they are brought low, he does not see it.

22 He feels but the pain of his own body and mourns only for himself."
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Job 13 (New International Version)




Job 13

1 "My eyes have seen all this, my ears have heard and understood it.

2 What you know, I also know; I am not inferior to you.

3 But I desire to speak to the Almighty and to argue my case with God.

4 You, however, smear me with lies; you are worthless physicians, all of you!

5 If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom.

6 Hear now my argument; listen to the plea of my lips.

7 Will you speak wickedly on God's behalf? Will you speak deceitfully for him?

8 Will you show him partiality? Will you argue the case for God?

9 Would it turn out well if he examined you? Could you deceive him as you might deceive men?

10 He would surely rebuke you if you secretly showed partiality.

11 Would not his splendor terrify you? Would not the dread of him fall on you?

12 Your maxims are proverbs of ashes; your defenses are defenses of clay.

13 "Keep silent and let me speak; then let come to me what may.

14 Why do I put myself in jeopardy and take my life in my hands?

15 Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him; I will surely [a] defend my ways to his face.

16 Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance, for no godless man would dare come before him!

17 Listen carefully to my words; let your ears take in what I say.

18 Now that I have prepared my case, I know I will be vindicated.

19 Can anyone bring charges against me? If so, I will be silent and die.

20 "Only grant me these two things, O God, and then I will not hide from you:

21 Withdraw your hand far from me, and stop frightening me with your terrors.

22 Then summon me and I will answer, or let me speak, and you reply.

23 How many wrongs and sins have I committed? Show me my offense and my sin.

24 Why do you hide your face and consider me your enemy?

25 Will you torment a windblown leaf? Will you chase after dry chaff?

26 For you write down bitter things against me and make me inherit the sins of my youth.

27 You fasten my feet in shackles; you keep close watch on all my paths by putting marks on the soles of my feet.

28 "So man wastes away like something rotten, like a garment eaten by moths.
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Job 12 (New International Version)




Job 12

Job

1 Then Job replied:
2 "Doubtless you are the people, and wisdom will die with you!

3 But I have a mind as well as you; I am not inferior to you. Who does not know all these things?

4 "I have become a laughingstock to my friends, though I called upon God and he answered— a mere laughingstock, though righteous and blameless!

5 Men at ease have contempt for misfortune as the fate of those whose feet are slipping.

6 The tents of marauders are undisturbed, and those who provoke God are secure— those who carry their god in their hands. [a]

7 "But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you;

8 or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea inform you.

9 Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this?

10 In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.

11 Does not the ear test words as the tongue tastes food?

12 Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?

13 "To God belong wisdom and power; counsel and understanding are his.

14 What he tears down cannot be rebuilt; the man he imprisons cannot be released.

15 If he holds back the waters, there is drought; if he lets them loose, they devastate the land.

16 To him belong strength and victory; both deceived and deceiver are his.

17 He leads counselors away stripped and makes fools of judges.

18 He takes off the shackles put on by kings and ties a loincloth [b] around their waist.

19 He leads priests away stripped and overthrows men long established.

20 He silences the lips of trusted advisers and takes away the discernment of elders.

21 He pours contempt on nobles and disarms the mighty.

22 He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into the light.

23 He makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and disperses them.

24 He deprives the leaders of the earth of their reason; he sends them wandering through a trackless waste.

25 They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards.
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Proverbs 12 (New International Version)




Proverbs 12

1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid.

2 A good man obtains favor from the LORD, but the LORD condemns a crafty man.

3 A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted.

4 A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.

5 The plans of the righteous are just, but the advice of the wicked is deceitful.

6 The words of the wicked lie in wait for blood, but the speech of the upright rescues them.

7 Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm.

8 A man is praised according to his wisdom, but men with warped minds are despised.

9 Better to be a nobody and yet have a servant than pretend to be somebody and have no food.

10 A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.

11 He who works his land will have abundant food, but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment.

12 The wicked desire the plunder of evil men, but the root of the righteous flourishes.

13 An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous man escapes trouble.

14 From the fruit of his lips a man is filled with good things as surely as the work of his hands rewards him.

15 The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.

16 A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult.

17 A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies.

18 Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

19 Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.

20 There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace.

21 No harm befalls the righteous, but the wicked have their fill of trouble.

22 The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.

23 A prudent man keeps his knowledge to himself, but the heart of fools blurts out folly.

24 Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in slave labor.

25 An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.

26 A righteous man is cautious in friendship, [a] but the way of the wicked leads them astray.

27 The lazy man does not roast [b] his game, but the diligent man prizes his possessions.

28 In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality.
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Psalm 136 (New International Version)


Psalm 136 (New International Version)

Psalm 136

1 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.

2 Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever.

3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.

4 to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever.

5 who by his understanding made the heavens, His love endures forever.

6 who spread out the earth upon the waters, His love endures forever.

7 who made the great lights— His love endures forever.

8 the sun to govern the day, His love endures forever.

9 the moon and stars to govern the night; His love endures forever.

10 to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt His love endures forever.

11 and brought Israel out from among them His love endures forever.

12 with a mighty hand and outstretched arm; His love endures forever.

13 to him who divided the Red Sea [a] asunder His love endures forever.

14 and brought Israel through the midst of it, His love endures forever.

15 but swept Pharaoh and his army into the Red Sea; His love endures forever.

16 to him who led his people through the desert, His love endures forever.

17 who struck down great kings, His love endures forever.

18 and killed mighty kings— His love endures forever.

19 Sihon king of the Amorites His love endures forever.

20 and Og king of Bashan— His love endures forever.

21 and gave their land as an inheritance, His love endures forever.

22 an inheritance to his servant Israel; His love endures forever.

23 to the One who remembered us in our low estate His love endures forever.

24 and freed us from our enemies, His love endures forever.

25 and who gives food to every creature. His love endures forever.

26 Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.
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Saturday, May 11, 2013

Proverbs 11 (New International Version)




Proverbs 11

1 The LORD abhors dishonest scales, but accurate weights are his delight.

2 When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.

3 The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.

5 The righteousness of the blameless makes a straight way for them, but the wicked are brought down by their own wickedness.

6 The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.

7 When a wicked man dies, his hope perishes; all he expected from his power comes to nothing.

8 The righteous man is rescued from trouble, and it comes on the wicked instead.

9 With his mouth the godless destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous escape.

10 When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish, there are shouts of joy.

11 Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.

12 A man who lacks judgment derides his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his tongue.

13 A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret.

14 For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory sure.

15 He who puts up security for another will surely suffer, but whoever refuses to strike hands in pledge is safe.

16 A kindhearted woman gains respect, but ruthless men gain only wealth.

17 A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.

18 The wicked man earns deceptive wages, but he who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.

19 The truly righteous man attains life, but he who pursues evil goes to his death.

20 The LORD detests men of perverse heart but he delights in those whose ways are blameless.

21 Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free.

22 Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman who shows no discretion.

23 The desire of the righteous ends only in good, but the hope of the wicked only in wrath.

24 One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.

25 A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

26 People curse the man who hoards grain, but blessing crowns him who is willing to sell.

27 He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who searches for it.

28 Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.

29 He who brings trouble on his family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise.

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise.

31 If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!
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Psalm 135 (New International Version)




Psalm 135

1 Praise the LORD. [a] Praise the name of the LORD; praise him, you servants of the LORD,

2 you who minister in the house of the LORD, in the courts of the house of our God.

3 Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good; sing praise to his name, for that is pleasant.

4 For the LORD has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession.

5 I know that the LORD is great, that our Lord is greater than all gods.

6 The LORD does whatever pleases him, in the heavens and on the earth, in the seas and all their depths.

7 He makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth; he sends lightning with the rain and brings out the wind from his storehouses.

8 He struck down the firstborn of Egypt, the firstborn of men and animals.

9 He sent his signs and wonders into your midst, O Egypt, against Pharaoh and all his servants.

10 He struck down many nations and killed mighty kings-

11 Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan and all the kings of Canaan-

12 and he gave their land as an inheritance, an inheritance to his people Israel.

13 Your name, O LORD, endures forever, your renown, O LORD, through all generations.

14 For the LORD will vindicate his people and have compassion on his servants.

15 The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by the hands of men.

16 They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but they cannot see;

17 they have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths.

18 Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them.

19 O house of Israel, praise the LORD; O house of Aaron, praise the LORD;

20 O house of Levi, praise the LORD; you who fear him, praise the LORD.

21 Praise be to the LORD from Zion, to him who dwells in Jerusalem. Praise the LORD.
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AFWIS Joins Operation World in Prayer for the Republic of Ecuador - Latin America

Published on Operation World (http://www.operationworld.org)
Home > May 11: Ecuador

May 11: Ecuador

Ecuador

Republic of Ecuador

Latin America

See Prayer Information

Geography

Area: 269,178 sq km
Amazon jungle in the east, high Andean Sierra in the centre, fertile coastal plain on Pacific Coast. Also the Galapagos Islands, 1,000 km to the west.
Population: 13,774,909    Annual Growth: 1.07%
Capital: Quito
Urbanites: 66.9%
HDI Rank: 80 of 182 (UN Human Development Reports 2009)

Peoples

Peoples: 31 (6% unreached) All peoples
Unreached Peoples Prayer Card

Official language: Spanish    Languages: 25 All languages

Religion

Largest Religion: Christian
Religion               Pop %Ann Gr
Christians13,010,40294.451.0
Evangelicals1,170,0898.54.9

Answer to Prayer

The steady growth of evangelicals. Ecuador had Latin America’s lowest percentage of evangelicals in 1960, but this has increased from 17,000 seventy-fold to 1.2 million in 2010. Most growth is in the rapidly growing cities and among the Quichua. Evangelical churches in Ecuador may not have the size of Brazilian churches or the proportion of Central America’s, but they are growing in number, in size, in maturity and in social impact, particularly in the last 10 years.
     For an additional 2 Answers to Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

Challenge for Prayer

The Catholic Church sees its privileged position erode, even as evangelical and marginal groups rapidly increase. There are sporadic, local incidents of mob violence, burning of churches and intimidation against evangelicals. Pray for continued freedom of religion, harmony among denominations and an increase in spiritual life among Catholics. There is a modest but growing charismatic movement in the Catholic Church in Ecuador.
     For an additional 9 Challenges for Prayer see Operation World book, CD-ROM, or DVD-ROM.

More Information

The Operation World book, CD-ROM, and DVD-ROM provide far more information and fuel for prayer for the people of Ecuador.
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Job 6 (New International Version)




Job 6

Job

1 Then Job replied:
2 "If only my anguish could be weighed and all my misery be placed on the scales!

3 It would surely outweigh the sand of the seas— no wonder my words have been impetuous.

4 The arrows of the Almighty are in me, my spirit drinks in their poison; God's terrors are marshaled against me.

5 Does a wild donkey bray when it has grass, or an ox bellow when it has fodder?

6 Is tasteless food eaten without salt, or is there flavor in the white of an egg [a] ?

7 I refuse to touch it; such food makes me ill.

8 "Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for,

9 that God would be willing to crush me, to let loose his hand and cut me off!

10 Then I would still have this consolation— my joy in unrelenting pain— that I had not denied the words of the Holy One.

11 "What strength do I have, that I should still hope? What prospects, that I should be patient?

12 Do I have the strength of stone? Is my flesh bronze?

13 Do I have any power to help myself, now that success has been driven from me?

14 "A despairing man should have the devotion of his friends, even though he forsakes the fear of the Almighty.

15 But my brothers are as undependable as intermittent streams, as the streams that overflow

16 when darkened by thawing ice and swollen with melting snow,

17 but that cease to flow in the dry season, and in the heat vanish from their channels.

18 Caravans turn aside from their routes; they go up into the wasteland and perish.

19 The caravans of Tema look for water, the traveling merchants of Sheba look in hope.

20 They are distressed, because they had been confident; they arrive there, only to be disappointed.

21 Now you too have proved to be of no help; you see something dreadful and are afraid.

22 Have I ever said, 'Give something on my behalf, pay a ransom for me from your wealth,

23 deliver me from the hand of the enemy, ransom me from the clutches of the ruthless'?

24 "Teach me, and I will be quiet; show me where I have been wrong.

25 How painful are honest words! But what do your arguments prove?

26 Do you mean to correct what I say, and treat the words of a despairing man as wind?

27 You would even cast lots for the fatherless and barter away your friend.

28 "But now be so kind as to look at me. Would I lie to your face?

29 Relent, do not be unjust; reconsider, for my integrity is at stake. [b]

30 Is there any wickedness on my lips? Can my mouth not discern malice?
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